JQJO — Politics news · Page 835

Marking Donald Trump's 100th day in office, a news organization highlights its commitment to fearless, fact-based journalism. They emphasize their continued dedication to truth-seeking and request reader support to maintain their independent reporting during this crucial period in American history. The organization expresses gratitude for past contributions and stresses the ongoing need for financial assistance to sustain their vital work.

The Trump administration finalized a deal granting privileged access to Ukraine's natural resources. Initially seen as Zelensky "caving," the agreement is now viewed as strategic bargaining. Ukraine retains ownership, contributing 50% of resource royalties to a joint US-Ukraine fund for reconstruction. The US contributes in-kind, avoiding retroactive debt claims. While profitability is uncertain due to long-term mining timelines, the deal counters China's influence and bolsters US supply chains, preventing Russia and China from accessing Ukrainian minerals.

Former Vice President Mike Pence criticized Donald Trump's economic and foreign policies in a CNN interview. Pence warned that Trump's tariffs would cause price shocks and shortages, harming consumers. He also condemned Trump's wavering support for Ukraine and his praise for Vladimir Putin, arguing that Putin seeks to conquer Ukraine, not peace. Pence further criticized Trump's pardon of January 6th rioters and his trade policies targeting Canada.

Germany's parliament will elect Friedrich Merz as the new Chancellor, ending months of political stalemate. The 69-year-old conservative leader aims to revive the economy and strengthen Germany's global role. His CDU/CSU and SPD coalition holds a narrow majority, facing challenges including a surging far-right and economic uncertainty. Merz plans to address immigration, infrastructure, and European relations, prioritizing defense spending despite low public support.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced a referendum on separating from Canada next year if a citizen-led petition gathers enough signatures. While Smith personally opposes separation, she stated she'll abide by Albertans' decision if Ottawa continues its perceived attacks on the province's oil industry. This follows a recent federal election win for the Liberal Party and amid ongoing trade tensions with the U.S. The required signatures for the referendum have been lowered, and Smith is pursuing negotiations with the federal government while also engaging Albertans through town halls.

President Trump signed an executive order aiming to boost domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing. The order directs the FDA to streamline approvals for US plants, increase fees for foreign facilities, and improve enforcement of ingredient sourcing. The EPA will accelerate construction of drug manufacturing facilities. The goal is to reduce reliance on foreign drug production, bolster national security, and lower drug costs.

TeleMessage, the communications app used by former Trump national security adviser Mike Waltz, has temporarily suspended services following a reported hack. The hack, confirmed by 404 Media, exposed some user messages. The suspension comes after Waltz's controversial use of the app, including accidentally adding a journalist to a group chat about Yemen military action. Waltz was subsequently dismissed from his post and nominated for a UN ambassadorship. Smarsh, the Oregon-based company behind TeleMessage, is investigating the security incident.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced he won't run for the U.S. Senate in 2026, leaving the Republican nomination wide open. This decision follows a recent poll showing Kemp with high approval ratings and competitive against incumbent Democrat Jon Ossoff. Several Republicans are vying for the nomination, including U.S. Representatives Buddy Carter, Mike Collins, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Rich McCormick, creating a potential intra-party battle. Ossoff, meanwhile, is focusing on fundraising and highlighting his opposition to former President Trump's policies, aiming to secure re-election in a state Trump won in 2024.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) laid off an additional 200 employees in May, following a larger Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reduction-in-force. These layoffs, part of a Trump administration initiative to shrink the federal workforce, targeted employees in emergency preparedness and risk compliance, as well as communications and information services. The HHS spokesperson stated that an equal number of employees will be rehired in critical areas, aiming to redirect resources and maximize taxpayer dollars. The agency assures that the layoffs won't affect HHS operations.

A federal judge has ordered North Carolina to certify Democrat Allison Riggs as the winner of the state Supreme Court election, rejecting challenges from Republican Jefferson Griffin. Judge Richard Myers' decision overruled a state Supreme Court ruling that questioned thousands of ballots, primarily from overseas voters. Myers cited violations of voters' due process and equal protection rights. The ruling preserves Riggs' 734-vote lead, despite a six-month delay. Griffin has a week to appeal.