The Supreme Court has allowed Alabama to proceed with a congressional map deemed favourable to Republicans for the upcoming midterm elections, despite a lower court’s finding of intentional discrimination against Black voters. The decision permits one majority-Black district in a seven-district configuration.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed that the Justice Department will not proceed with the $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, following a district court’s temporary block. This decision comes amid mounting Republican opposition and uncertainty regarding the related IRS settlement involving President Trump and his family.

President Trump has appointed Bill Pulte, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, as acting director of national intelligence, succeeding Tulsi Gabbard at the end of the month. Pulte’s controversial background includes allegations of mortgage fraud against political opponents, prompting scrutiny from the Government Accountability Office.

Graham Platner, the likely Democratic Senate nominee in Maine, faces criticism following reports of sexually explicit text messages sent to at least six women after his marriage in 2023. The situation is drawing significant attention as further details emerge. Caitlin Huey-Burns reports.

EUROPEAN BRIEFING

This morning, key issues for Europe include economic stability and energy policy shifts.
Focus remains on collaborative strategies for resilience.

Rapper Vanilla Ice confirmed his participation in the Freedom 250 concert series in Washington, D.C., despite several artists withdrawing. He stated that the event is about celebrating American independence, clarifying that he has no political motives and would perform for anyone, including controversial figures.