Browsing: White House

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act has expired, compromising the government’s ability to collect foreign intelligence without a warrant. Its lapsed status may affect cooperation from telecommunications providers, though existing authorisations remain in effect until their predetermined expiration dates.

President Trump announced a potential deal regarding Iran, stating that the documentation is in “pretty final shape.” This follows remarks about possible attacks on civilian infrastructure and the takeover of Iran’s energy facilities, indicating a shift in diplomatic approach.

The House is scheduled to vote on a $70 billion bill to fund immigration enforcement agencies, following Senate approval. House GOP leaders expect success despite potential attendance issues. Rep. Kevin Kiley plans to oppose the bill, citing concerns over a lack of bipartisan reforms.

The Trump administration announced plans to revoke the citizenship of 17 U.S. citizens for alleged immigration fraud, expanding its denaturalization efforts. This initiative, described as the largest of its kind, targets individuals purportedly involved in serious crimes or fraud while naturalising.

A federal lawsuit filed on Saturday aims to halt the Ultimate Fighting Championship event on the White House South Lawn, scheduled for President Trump’s birthday. The suit alleges violations of federal law, questioning the event’s approval and its financial benefits to the president and UFC.

President Trump will attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden, prompting extensive security preparations. Enhanced measures will include a hard closure of the area, ticketed entry, and screening protocols for fans.

The House voted to send up to $8 billion in military loans to Ukraine, facilitated by a discharge petition initiated by Rep. Gregory Meeks. The legislation passed 226 to 195, with support from some Republicans. Its future in the Senate remains uncertain amid stalled bipartisan legislation targeting Russia.

The House passed a war powers resolution on Wednesday requiring President Trump to end military engagement with Iran without congressional approval. The vote tally reached 215 to 208, supported by four Republicans and Democratic Rep. Jared Golden, marking a notable challenge to the Trump administration’s authority on military actions.

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.