US-Iran Clashes in Hormuz Test Fragile Ceasefire as Oil Prices Surge
US forces under Project Freedom escorted commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, firing on and destroying Iranian boats that threatened protected vessels. Iran attacked a UAE oil facility and proposed a ceasefire for sanctions relief and US withdrawal, but Trump rejected it insisting on American terms. The exchanges test the fragile truce as a 60-day war powers deadline nears and oil prices fluctuate.
Trump Endorsements Tested Against GOP Incumbents in Indiana, Ohio Primaries
Indiana and Ohio voters went to the polls for primaries where Trump endorsed challengers to Republican incumbents who defied him on issues like redistricting. The races offer a key gauge of Trump's post-2024 sway over the party. Outcomes could foreshadow 2026 midterm battles.
Gas Prices Hit $4.48 as Hormuz Tensions Drive Oil Volatility
National average gas prices reached $4.48 per gallon, rising over 30 cents in a week due to oil market volatility from Strait of Hormuz clashes. Stock futures gained after oil pullback but energy fears persist. The surge coincides with Fed rate cut expectations for economic growth.
Powell to Stay on Fed Board as Criticism Mounts Over Rates, Inflation
Criticism mounts against Fed Chair Powell with calls for his replacement as markets anticipate rate cuts to spur growth despite sticky inflation and rising energy costs. Incoming figures like Kevin Warsh eyed. Q1 GDP rose 2.0% but gas tops $4.
GOP Amasses Cash Edge for 2026 Midterms Amid Enthusiasm Warnings
GOP fundraising dwarfs Democrats as 2026 midterms loom, with Republicans crafting a winning message despite left warnings that Trump drags the party down. Analysts note Trump's picks may not mobilize voters. Primaries provide early indicators of the landscape.
Appeals Court Blocks Mail-Order Abortion Pills, Alito Grants Temporary Stay
A unanimous appeals court blocked a Biden-era policy permitting mifepristone prescriptions without in-person doctor visits, creating confusion over access. Justice Alito stayed a related ruling. The decision aligns with ongoing state-level restrictions like Florida's ban.
Federal Probe Targets Smith College for Admitting Transgender Women
The Trump administration launched an investigation into Smith College for admitting trans women, prompting Education Department probe. Critics see it as part of GOP anti-trans measures used politically. The case fuels national divides on gender policies.
DeepMind UK Staff Seek Union Recognition Over Military AI Ties
Workers at Google DeepMind in the UK voted to unionize, protesting partnerships with the US military on AI technologies. The move underscores ethical concerns in AI development. It follows similar labor actions in tech.
Graham Pushes Expanded Strikes on Iran, Defines Victory Around Reopened Strait
Sen. Lindsey Graham called for more US strikes on Iran's war machine and arming dissidents to overthrow the regime. Critics mocked his definition of victory amid the Hormuz clashes. His stance reflects hawkish GOP views on the conflict.
Trump Accuses Pope Leo XIV of Endangering Catholics Ahead of Rubio Visit
Trump accused Pope Leo XIV of endangering Catholics in sharp comments, renewing their clash ahead of Secretary Rubio's Vatican visit. Rubio anticipates a frank discussion. The spat highlights Trump's style in international relations.
Secret Service Returns Fire on Armed Suspect Near White House, Wounding Man and Child
Secret Service agents shot a man wielding a firearm who allegedly fired near the White House, wounding him in the incident. The area was briefly locked down as a precaution. Details on the suspect's motive remain under investigation.
Coinbase Cuts 14% of Workforce to Adapt to AI and Crypto Downturn
Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase announced cuts of about 700 jobs, or 14% of staff, attributing the move to AI efficiencies and challenging market conditions. The company aims to streamline operations in the evolving crypto and AI landscape. Shares rose following the news.