JQJO — Politics news · Page 883

A Manhattan federal prosecutor's office accidentally revealed an internal memo criticizing the Trump administration's strategy to halt New York City's congestion pricing program. The memo argued the strategy was legally risky and suggested an alternative approach. The Transportation Department responded by removing the Southern District from the case, accusing them of incompetence or resistance. This incident follows recent resignations and criticisms of the office's leadership. The congestion pricing program, charging drivers a fee to enter Manhattan's busiest areas, has faced strong opposition from the Trump administration and some commuters.

The Trump administration's use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan gang members has sparked a legal battle. A newly unsealed document reveals migrants are given at least 12 hours to indicate intent to contest deportation, and 24 hours to file a habeas petition. The ACLU argues this timeframe is insufficient. The Supreme Court temporarily halted deportations of Venezuelans in northern Texas, after the ACLU claimed authorities restarted removals without due process. ICE maintains that many deportees lack US criminal records, yet pose a risk. The deportations involved alleged members of the Tren de Aragua and MS-13 gangs, escorted by US military personnel to a prison in El Salvador.

Donald Trump's online store is selling "Trump 2028" merchandise despite constitutional restrictions preventing him from running for president again. The 22nd Amendment limits presidents to two terms. Despite declining approval ratings and this legal barrier, Trump claims there are "methods" to enable a third term, though such a move would require a near-impossible amendment to the US Constitution. His son Eric was recently pictured wearing one of the new hats.

President Trump, nearing his 100th day in office, expressed frustration over stalled peace negotiations in Ukraine. He privately admitted the mediation is harder than expected, citing the animosity between Putin and Zelensky. A recent Russian attack on Kyiv, which Trump deemed ill-timed, further complicated matters. While he publicly urged Putin to "STOP," Trump also criticized Zelensky for prolonging the war. His efforts have drawn varied reactions, with some allies expressing alarm over his proposed peace plan favoring Russia.

The Trump administration is reportedly seeking a less confrontational approach to its global trade war, aiming for public announcements of trade pacts rather than formal agreements. India is expected to be the first to receive such an announcement, potentially followed by Japan, the UK, Australia, and the EU. However, the US negotiating team's unclear demands have caused delays, exemplified by stalled Japanese negotiations. While the administration acknowledges the US's reliance on global trade, particularly with China, concerns remain about the economic damage caused by tariffs and the possibility of Trump reversing course.

President Trump issued an executive order prioritizing the development of US offshore critical minerals. The order aims to reduce reliance on foreign adversaries for vital resources like nickel and cobalt, crucial for national security and economic growth. It directs several agencies to streamline permitting, invest in technology, and foster international partnerships to responsibly explore and extract these minerals from seabed resources, countering China's growing influence in the sector. Reports on various aspects of seabed mineral development, including private sector opportunities and international collaboration, are mandated within 60 days.

The Supreme Court is likely to reinstate a Trump-era ban on transgender people serving in the US military. This follows a similar ban reinstated in 2019. While lower courts blocked the current ban, the Supreme Court's history of deference to military regulations, coupled with its conservative majority, makes the reinstatement highly probable. The case involves Commander Emily Shilling, a highly trained pilot, whose expertise would be lost if the ban is upheld. The Court's past decisions allow the military greater leeway in regulations than civilian contexts, even if it involves discrimination.

President Trump has ordered an investigation into illegal campaign contributions, specifically focusing on the use of online platforms for "straw donor" schemes and foreign interference. The investigation, led by the Attorney General in consultation with the Treasury Secretary, will examine allegations of money laundering and evasion of campaign finance laws. The probe targets platforms facilitating anonymous donations and contributions from foreign nationals, aiming to safeguard election integrity. A report is due within 180 days.

Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton is the first to announce her candidacy to replace retiring Sen. Dick Durbin. Several other potential candidates, including Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Lauren Underwood, and Robin Kelly, as well as Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and State Treasurer Mike Frerichs, are expected to enter the race. Krishnamoorthi, while possessing significant campaign funds, hasn't formally announced his bid, citing a desire to honor Durbin's legacy. Frerichs expressed potential interest but wants to wait before deciding. Stratton emphasized her focus on supporting middle-class families.

Former Las Vegas City Councilwoman Michele Fiore, convicted of wire fraud for misusing funds intended for a police officer's memorial, received a full pardon from President Trump. Fiore, a Republican, was found guilty of six counts of wire fraud and conspiracy. The pardon comes shortly after a judge denied her request for a new trial and after Trump appointed a friend of Fiore as Nevada's top federal prosecutor. Fiore plans to resume her position as a justice of the peace.