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President Cyril Ramaphosa criticized 59 white South Africans who relocated to the US as "cowards," dismissing claims of persecution. He asserted that they are unhappy with efforts to address apartheid's inequities and predicted their return. The move follows claims by President Trump of a "genocide" of white farmers in South Africa, a claim widely debunked. Ramaphosa stated that South Africans should address their challenges at home and that the Afrikaners' relocation is a "sad moment." He plans to discuss the matter with Trump, who has threatened to boycott the G20 summit in South Africa.

Pete Buttigieg is making a series of public appearances, sparking speculation about his political ambitions ahead of the 2028 presidential election. In a recent Iowa speech, he implicitly criticized the Trump administration's handling of veterans' affairs and broader economic policies, urging voters to resist Trump and restore faith in democracy. His appearances, including podcast interviews and public speeches, suggest a potential bid for the Democratic nomination.

Twenty Democratic state attorneys general filed two federal lawsuits against the Trump administration, alleging threats to withhold billions in transportation and disaster-relief funds unless states comply with immigration enforcement actions. The lawsuits claim this violates the Constitution by usurping Congress's power over federal spending. While no funds are currently withheld, attorneys general describe the threat as imminent. The Trump administration defends its actions, asserting states obstructing immigration enforcement shouldn't receive federal funding. The lawsuits, filed in Rhode Island, represent a continuing legal battle between Democratic states and the Trump administration over various policies, particularly immigration enforcement.

House Republicans are pushing through a massive tax cut bill totaling over $5 trillion, featuring extended tax cuts and increased standard deductions. However, the bill faces strong opposition due to proposed cuts to Medicaid, food stamps, and green energy initiatives. Democrats criticize the bill as favoring the wealthy while harming social programs. The bill also includes increased spending on deportation and military programs, offset by spending cuts elsewhere. Despite internal Republican disagreements and protests, Speaker Mike Johnson aims to pass the bill by Memorial Day, facing a July 4 deadline to avoid a debt default.

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg criticized the Trump administration's actions in an Iowa town hall, highlighting instances of threats to freedom of speech and due process. He condemned the Trump administration's handling of Kilmar Abrego Garcia's deportation and urged Democrats to actively resist Trump's policies, rejecting a passive approach. Buttigieg's remarks come amid speculation about a potential 2028 presidential bid, though he claims any decision is far off. His past success in Iowa's caucuses adds to the speculation.

Sen. Adam Schiff and other Senate Democrats are requesting an investigation into the Department of Defense's role in facilitating the Trump administration's acceptance of a luxury jet donated by Qatar. The senators express concerns about constitutional, legal, and national security implications, alleging the transaction attempts to circumvent congressional oversight. The letter to the DoD Inspector General requests an audit for potential fraud, waste, and abuse, and seeks information on costs, timelines, and security risks associated with retrofitting the aircraft for Air Force One use. The Pentagon OIG has acknowledged receipt of the letter.

President Trump announced the lifting of US sanctions on Syria, following the Assad regime's fall. This decision, reportedly made in consultation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Erdogan, is a significant win for Syria's new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa. The move is expected to boost Syria's economy and is welcomed by the UN and some US senators, while others express reservations. Celebrations erupted in Syria upon the announcement, with citizens expressing hope for rebuilding their nation.

Converting a Qatari-gifted luxury jet into a replacement Air Force One faces significant hurdles. Experts warn of hundreds of millions of dollars in retrofitting costs and up to two years to install essential security and communication systems. Concerns include potential espionage risks and vulnerabilities. While touted as a temporary solution by President Trump, the plan raises ethical questions and faces legal challenges. The jet's suitability as a secure presidential aircraft is heavily debated, with officials expressing doubt about its feasibility and safety.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed two lawsuits against the Trump administration, challenging a policy that would withhold billions in transportation and homeland security grants unless states comply with stricter immigration enforcement. The lawsuits, joined by 20 states, argue the policy exceeds the administration's authority and jeopardizes public safety. The administration contends that states accepting federal funds must adhere to federal laws. The lawsuits raise the question of whether the federal government can withhold funds to punish sanctuary jurisdictions, a matter previously unresolved by the Supreme Court.

A lawsuit against the Trump administration concerning the deportation of a 2-year-old U.S. citizen and her Honduran mother to Honduras has been dropped. The family, represented by the ACLU and others, cited the trauma experienced and the need to explore all options for the child's well-being. The lawsuit alleged the deportation violated the family's rights and lacked due process. A federal judge had expressed concerns about the legality of the deportation. The family is now seeking alternative solutions.