JQJO — Politics news · Page 831

Harvard University, facing a $2.2 billion federal funding freeze and criticism over its handling of antisemitism allegations, is embroiled in a dispute with the Trump administration. Harvard President Alan Garber publicly rejected the administration's demands for governance changes, leading to a legal battle. Hedge fund CEO Bill Ackman, a Harvard alumnus, criticized Harvard Corporation Chair Penny Pritzker's leadership, calling for a change. Pritzker, a former Obama administration official, has defended Harvard's stance and rejected increased government oversight of universities. The conflict highlights tensions between academic freedom and government funding.

President Trump met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, rejecting calls to reduce tariffs on Canadian goods. Trump reiterated his unsubstantiated claim that the US subsidizes Canada by $200 billion annually. Carney acknowledged Canada's significant role as a US trading partner, emphasizing the mutual benefits of free trade. Despite Trump suggesting Canada become a US state, Carney firmly rejected this proposition. While Trump expressed openness to future negotiations, no immediate trade deal was reached, with both leaders acknowledging the complexity and time required for such an agreement.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced he won't run for the U.S. Senate, despite significant pressure from party leaders and donors. Kemp, who enjoys high approval ratings and recently won re-election, cited his contentment with his current role and the challenges of Senate life. His decision leaves the Republican Senate race open, with several candidates already vying for the nomination. While national Republicans sought Kemp's candidacy, his decision is seen as a victory for Democrats. Kemp hinted at remaining politically active, potentially influencing the upcoming election.

A declassified US intelligence assessment reveals no coordination between Venezuela's Tren de Aragua gang and the Maduro government, contradicting the Trump administration's justification for using the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan immigrants. While the memo acknowledges some low-level officials may have ties to the gang for personal gain, it concludes that the Maduro regime doesn't direct the gang's US operations. This contradicts statements by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, prompting criticism from Democrats who accuse her of misrepresenting intelligence. Two federal judges have already ruled against the Trump administration's use of the Alien Enemies Act in these deportations.

Ohio's primary election is underway, with voters deciding on statewide Issue 2—a $2.5 billion infrastructure bond proposal—and numerous local levies and races. Early results are expected after 7:30 p.m., with 10TV providing live coverage on 10TV+ starting at 9:30 p.m. Key races include Columbus City Council District 7, Columbus Board of Education, and various city council races. Multiple fire, police, and school levies are also on the ballot, impacting taxpayers across different districts. 10TV.com and the 10TV News app offer comprehensive results.

House Republicans are facing internal division over a bill to rename the Gulf of Mexico to "Gulf of America," a push championed by President Trump. Rep. Don Bacon voiced opposition, calling it "juvenile." Several other Republicans also expressed concerns, creating uncertainty about the bill's passage despite GOP leadership's optimism. The White House's involvement stems from a dispute with the Associated Press, which plans to continue using the traditional name. The bill's fate hangs in the balance as few Democrats are expected to support it.

The Trump administration surprisingly moved to dismiss a lawsuit targeting the abortion pill mifepristone, a move that puzzles experts. While seemingly a win for abortion access, it allows the administration to avoid directly confronting the issue and potentially restrict access later through the FDA. The lawsuit, initially filed by anti-abortion doctors and taken over by Republican attorneys general, aimed to reverse FDA regulations expanding mifepristone access. The administration's argument centers on the lack of standing for the current plaintiffs, leaving open the possibility of future FDA action to limit access, despite the drug's safety record.

A federal judge has temporarily blocked President Trump's executive order to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which funds libraries and museums nationwide. Twenty-one states sued, arguing the order violated the Administrative Procedure Act and infringed on Congress's power to appropriate funds. The judge agreed, issuing a preliminary injunction. The IMLS, established in 1996, had its employees placed on administrative leave and some state grants rescinded following the order. A separate lawsuit against the IMLS elimination is underway.

Three Texas Democratic Representatives have sent a letter to the acting head of NOAA expressing concern over critical staffing shortages at the Houston-Galveston National Weather Service office, especially as hurricane season approaches. The office, serving over 7 million people, is without any managers, following layoffs and retirements under the previous administration. The lawmakers warn of potential life-threatening consequences and request a staffing plan by May 30th, highlighting concerns about reduced services and increased risk of errors in weather warnings due to understaffing.

A New York federal judge ruled the Trump administration improperly used the Alien Enemies Act (AEA) to deport alleged members of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang. This marks the second such ruling against the administration's use of the 18th-century law. Judge Alvin Hellerstein granted a preliminary injunction, citing a lack of due process for two plaintiffs deported to El Salvador then returned to New York. Hellerstein argued the administration's claim of an 'invasion' by the gang did not meet the AEA's criteria. A hearing is scheduled for May 21st.