Browsing: US politics

Former US Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona has died at the age of 84, following complications from a neurological disease. Kyl, who played a key role in landmark water policy and the confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, had been diagnosed with dementia in 2025 and retired from public life shortly thereafter.

The House passed a comprehensive Russia sanctions bill with a 262 to 159 vote, despite concerns from some Democrats about expanding President Trump’s tariff powers. The legislation now awaits presidential approval after previously receiving bipartisan support in the Senate.

U.S. Coast Guard and FBI agents boarded the VL Prosperity, a crude oil supertanker, after it experienced cyberattacks while en route to Galveston, Texas. Investigators detected evidence of malicious cyber activity but have not attributed the incident to Iran. The investigation is ongoing.

Former President Barack Obama announced the death of Sunny, the family’s 13-year-old Portuguese water dog, describing her as a “cherished member” of the family. Sunny, who joined the Obamas in 2013, was remembered for her loyalty and energetic personality.

The House voted 220 to 204 to prevent President Trump from further military action against Iran, with seven Republicans supporting the motion. Introduced by Rep. Seth Moulton, the resolution aims to withdraw US forces from hostilities. A Senate vote remains uncertain amid ongoing funding debates.

The family of Tierra Walker has initiated legal action in Texas following her death from preeclampsia at 37 during pregnancy. The lawsuit targets Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and medical providers for allegedly denying her a life-saving abortion, contributing to her deteriorating health and eventual demise.

FBI official Patel addressed changes to hiring standards, clarifying that victims of bestiality, if under 18 at the time, are no longer automatically disqualified from application. He emphasised the importance of not punishing victims while maintaining rigorous assessment standards for all candidates.

The Supreme Court upheld a lower court’s ruling blocking the U.S. Postal Service from enforcing new mail voting regulations ahead of the midterm elections. The decision addresses concerns over potential voter disenfranchisement and allows the ongoing legal challenge to proceed without immediate implementation of the disputed rules.

The Senate returned to Washington on Monday, resuming work after a five-week recess. Key items include procedural votes on cryptocurrency legislation and the Protect College Sports Act, amid ongoing discussions about regulatory measures for artificial intelligence and potential action on the Farm bill and surveillance authority.

The Justice Department has announced a crackdown on COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program fraud, resulting in charges against over 160 defendants and approximately $245 million in intended losses. The initiative, dubbed “Heartland fraud surge,” involved 44 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and targeted fabricated businesses and identity theft schemes.