JQJO — Politics news · Page 783

The US Supreme Court sided with the Trump administration, allowing the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 350,000 Venezuelans. This decision overturns a lower court ruling and removes legal residency and work permits. The Supreme Court's brief order lacked reasoning, prompting criticism from lawyers representing the affected Venezuelans who called it the largest single action stripping non-citizens of immigration status in modern US history. The decision comes amidst other ongoing legal battles regarding immigration policies initiated by the Trump administration.

Former Missouri Congressman Billy Long, President Trump's nominee to lead the IRS, faces Senate scrutiny over his promotion of a nonexistent tax credit. Long, lacking tax expertise, worked with entities offering dubious tax breaks, including a purported "tribal tax credit" through White River Energy Corporation. His involvement in this and a fraudulent pandemic-era tax break will be examined during his Tuesday confirmation hearing.

Portugal's recent election resulted in another minority government for the center-right Democratic Alliance, failing to resolve the country's prolonged political instability. The far-right Chega party significantly increased its seats, further complicating the political landscape. The election was triggered by a no-confidence vote stemming from allegations against the Prime Minister's family. Issues like corruption, immigration, and a housing crisis fueled Chega's rise and continue to shape Portuguese politics. The President will now consult with parties to form a new government.

House Speaker Mike Johnson struggles to unite Republicans behind a sweeping tax and budget bill championed by President Trump. Internal disagreements over Medicaid cuts and clean energy tax credits threaten the bill's passage. Texas Rep. Chip Roy demands Medicaid cuts, while New York Reps. Garbarino and LaLota oppose reductions in Medicaid coverage and clean energy tax credits respectively. Maryland Rep. Harris seeks complete repeal of the tax breaks. The diverse Republican factions highlight the internal challenges facing the Speaker in navigating the bill through the House.

A new UK-EU deal covers trade, defense, fishing, and energy, but key questions remain. The financial cost to the UK for benefits like reduced food export checks is unclear, as are the details of a youth visa scheme. While e-gates for British travelers at EU airports are promised, implementation depends on individual EU countries. Easing touring restrictions for British musicians and securing mutual recognition of professional qualifications are also ongoing negotiations with no immediate solutions.

The US government will pay $5 million to the family of Ashli Babbitt, a woman shot and killed by a Capitol Police officer during the January 6, 2021, riot. Babbitt was attempting to breach the Capitol building. While the officer involved was cleared of wrongdoing, the Justice Department settled the wrongful death lawsuit. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger expressed strong disapproval of the settlement, citing concerns about its impact on law enforcement.

Six Colorado cities are suing the state, claiming Governor Polis's executive order and new housing laws unconstitutionally usurp their local authority over land use and zoning. The lawsuit challenges the order withholding state grants from cities that don't implement laws allowing denser housing near transit and eliminating minimum parking requirements. Cities argue these infringe on their home rule rights and prevent local input on development plans. The governor's office counters that the state faces a housing shortage and these measures are necessary to lower housing costs.

Romania's new president, Nicușor Dan, a mathematician and former Bucharest mayor known for his anti-corruption efforts, won a convincing victory in the presidential rerun. His campaign focused on fundamental change and tackling ineffective institutions. Dan, praised for his integrity and methodical approach, aims to keep Romania on its pro-European path, strongly supporting EU membership and Ukraine. Despite his lack of extensive national political experience, his success as mayor demonstrates his ability to manage large-scale projects and build effective coalitions.

President Trump is demanding an investigation into celebrities like Bruce Springsteen, Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, and Bono, alleging that Vice President Kamala Harris violated campaign finance laws by paying them for endorsements disguised as entertainment fees. Trump's claim stems from a $1 million payment to Oprah Winfrey's production company for a town hall, which Winfrey says covered event costs and salaries, not personal fees. No evidence supports Trump's allegations of illegal endorsements.

The Justice Department is investigating Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration for potential discriminatory hiring practices. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon launched the probe following Johnson's comments highlighting the number of Black officials in his administration. Johnson defended his appointments, stating his aim is to represent all Chicagoans, including the Black community historically underserved. The mayor's office countered that the administration is the most diverse in city history, with a majority of white and Black employees. The investigation follows broader actions by the Justice Department targeting perceived political opponents.