JQJO — Politics news · Page 797

Missouri lawmakers passed a referendum to repeal a recently approved abortion rights amendment, effectively reinstating a near-total abortion ban. The referendum, scheduled for the November 2026 ballot, would overturn a constitutional amendment passed just six months prior that protected abortion access. The move sparked protests from abortion rights supporters who argue it overturns the will of the voters. If passed, the referendum would allow for strict regulations on abortion care, including hospital admitting privileges for physicians. Anti-abortion groups celebrated the legislation, while pro-choice advocates vowed to continue fighting.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended his department's deep budget cuts during contentious congressional hearings. He attributed the cuts to a plan inspired by Elon Musk, while acknowledging their painfulness. Kennedy faced criticism for lacking specifics on cuts and for potentially undermining vaccine trust. Lawmakers from both parties questioned the legality and impact of the budget reductions, with Democrats accusing the administration of illegally impounding funds. Kennedy stated that he has reinstated some programs cut in error, aiming to streamline HHS and improve efficiency.

Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, was arrested and charged with disrupting a US Senate hearing while protesting the Gaza blockade. Cohen, along with other activists, heckled Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his testimony. Cohen's protest highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, currently under a debilitating 11-week blockade by Israel, causing widespread food shortages and a risk of famine. Cohen faces up to 90 days in jail or a $500 fine.

The Pentagon has deployed thousands of active-duty troops, armored vehicles, and air and naval assets to the US-Mexico border under President Trump's administration. This marks a significant increase from the approximately 2,500 troops present at the end of the Biden administration. The heightened military presence aims to curb illegal crossings, which have decreased significantly since the Trump administration's declaration of seeking '100 percent' operational control of the border. Recent visits show a calmer border situation, with significantly fewer illegal crossings compared to the previous year.

British Prime Minister Kier Starmer announced plans to establish "return hubs" in unnamed countries to house rejected asylum seekers awaiting deportation. This follows the scrapping of a controversial Rwanda deportation plan. While Albania initially partnered with Italy on a similar program, its prime minister rejected further such agreements. The UK has seen a significant reduction in Albanian migrants arriving via the English Channel due to joint task forces, despite overall migrant crossings increasing. Starmer's visit to Albania marks the first by a British PM, also covering defense cooperation.

President Trump criticized Apple's plan to increase iPhone production in India to avoid US tariffs on Chinese-made goods, urging the company to manufacture more iPhones in the US instead. He stated he discussed this with Apple CEO Tim Cook, claiming Apple will increase US production. While Apple pledged $500 billion in US investment, analysts suggest significant challenges and costs in replicating its Chinese supply chain domestically. This highlights a cooling relationship between Trump and Apple, contrasting with his praise for Nvidia. India's increased iPhone exports to the US, fueled by Apple suppliers, are a key success for Modi's manufacturing drive, despite ongoing trade tensions between the US and India.

Fox News reports on Trump's Middle East economic agreements, a DHS chief's criticism of a Democrat, and the resurgence of cruise travel despite safety concerns. Other headlines include clashes between RFK Jr. and a senator, a judge's alleged assistance to an illegal alien, and legal challenges in the Diddy trial. The news also covers political developments, media controversies involving Kathy Griffin and Stephen Colbert, and a high school teacher's viral resignation. Finally, there are reports on a viral disease outbreak, changes at a burger chain, and a US airline's new luxury seating.

Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly an al-Qaeda fighter and leader of a U.S.-designated terror group, now leads Syria after the overthrow of Bashar Assad. He met with President Trump, who praised him and announced the lifting of sanctions. Al-Sharaa's journey from jihadist to statesman is remarkable, but he faces significant challenges including rebuilding Syria's war-torn economy, addressing sectarian tensions, and navigating ongoing conflicts with Israel. While celebrated by some, concerns remain about his consolidation of power and the long-term stability of Syria.

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard fired the top two officials at the National Intelligence Council (NIC), Mike Collins and Maria Langan-Riekhof, citing opposition to President Trump. This follows the NIC's release of a report contradicting Trump's justification for deporting Venezuelan gang members. Gabbard's office claims the firings aim to depoliticize the intelligence community, while critics suggest it's politically motivated, suppressing dissenting views. The firings have raised concerns about political influence on intelligence assessments and the potential chilling effect on analysts.

The House GOP is pushing a tax and spending cuts package aiming for completion before Memorial Day. Key features include making permanent individual income tax breaks from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, offering temporary relief for parents, seniors, and tipped workers. Most taxpayers would see lower average federal income tax rates, though some low-income earners might see a slight increase. The plan also includes cuts to programs like Medicaid and food stamps, along with the elimination of certain consumer tax credits. Specific tax breaks include a larger child tax credit, enhanced standard deduction for seniors, tip deductions, overtime tax exemption, and auto loan interest deduction, all with income limitations and expiration dates.