The UK-EU summit on British soil resulted in vague declarations and uncertainty. Claims of success were made on both sides regarding youth wheelchair and reducing food exports, with underlying Brexit tensions.
Ursula von der Leyen received the Charlemagne Award for services to European unity, pandemic control, and the Green Deal. She advocates for an independent Europe by strengthening defense, innovation, and expansion.
A legal battle unfolds as TSA unions challenge Homeland Security's ban on collective bargaining, citing First Amendment violations and retaliatory actions against unions opposing administration policies.
Supreme Court upholds Trump's firing of NLRB & MSPB members, impacting agency independence. Dissent highlights a break from precedent and potential for excessive presidential power.
Concerns raised over VA healthcare access & slow implementation of veteran benefits. Calls for accountability in federal retirement plans after system failures, impacting service & access.
Trump administration faces bipartisan scrutiny over IRS & EPA staffing cuts. Concerns raised about reduced workforce impacting agency operations and ability to address emerging threats. Cuts could reach 40%.
New SSA Commissioner Frank Bisignano prioritizes automation, AI for disability claims, and workforce efficiency. Workforce cuts, technology adoption, and customer service improvements are key goals.
Israeli forces fired on diplomats in Jenin, sparking international condemnation. France, Belgium, and Germany demand explanations. Incident follows EU consideration of Israel agreement review due to Gaza conflict.
New NIH director Jayanta Bhattacharya addresses staff, questioning COVID origins, research on racism, and recent layoffs. He aims to restore staff and address supply shortages amid budget cuts.
Poland's election sees Trzaskowski and Nawrocki in a tight runoff. Key issues: Tusk's influence, PiS resurgence, and attracting voters from Mentzen and the left. Election close than expected.
SSA reconsiders anti-fraud measures for phone benefit claims after finding minimal fraud. Policy changes sparked delays and public service issues, impacting retirement claim processing. Concerns raised over access to benefits.
EU considers new sanctions against Russia amid stalled talks. Zelenskyy, Macron, and Starmer react. Focus on energy, finance, and oil assets. Graham proposes tariffs. Key discussions continue.
Romania faces political turmoil as Simion, a hard-right leader, gains traction. He proposes a broad coalition after the presidential rerun, despite opposition and concerns over his policies & anti-european vision.
Trump's plan to use a Qatari jet as interim Air Force One raises security risks, legal concerns (emoluments clause), and counterintelligence dangers. Upgrades are impractical within the desired timeline.
Taft's approach to government efficiency, contrasted with Trump's, highlights a shift in reliance on experts and congressional collaboration. The Taft Commission aimed for economy and performance through streamlined administration.
A proposed moratorium on AI regulations aims to foster US innovation and competitiveness against China, removing potential barriers to AI development and deployment for the next decade.
The U.S. will cut tariffs on Chinese imports and China will reduce actions, initiating a 90-day suspension. This aims to ease economic strain from the trade war and boost markets, impacting global economy.
HDHPs with HSAs offer federal employees savings through lower premiums and tax advantages. Understand deductibles, HSA contributions, investment risks, and eligibility to make informed choices about health plans.
German Chancellor Merz, after previous doubts, now affirms U.S. importance to NATO and signals unity. He emphasizes efficiency and commercial reform within the alliance, praising a shift in the American stance.
The Interior Department is planning RIFs impacting NPS, USGS, and BLM, with up to 1,500 positions cut at NPS. Staff morale is low amid restructuring and hiring freezes. Key divisions face significant losses.
Germany's Merz seeks to revitalize the Weimar Triangle with Poland and France, aiming for a stronger European defense approach and a unified NATO position ahead of a crucial summit. Uncertainties remain.
Congress used CRA resolutions to repeal policies, from energy preservation to vehicle emissions. Trump approved 3 resolutions, signaling a deregulatory agenda. Concerns raised about abusing the CRA for broader policy changes.
The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) retracted a May 2024 opinion on the Hatch Act, reverting to referring violations by White House appointees to the President. This change impacts disciplinary actions and First Amendment concerns.
Trump's budget proposes deep cuts to most federal agencies (15-35%) except Defense (+13%), Homeland Security, Transport, and Veterans Affairs. Climate, education, and science programs face significant reductions.
