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A federal judge ruled that the Trump administration violated the law by canceling $7.6 billion in clean energy grants, primarily targeting projects in states that supported Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. The grants funded various initiatives across sixteen states, including battery plants, hydrogen technology, electric grid upgrades, and carbon capture efforts. The administration claimed the projects were canceled due to a review finding they didnt align with national energy goals or make economic sense. However, the judge disagreed, stating that the administration admitted to targeting grants based mostly on political affiliation. The ruling marks the second court loss for the administrations clean energy rollbacks, with environmental groups and cities suing after losing their funding. The cuts heavily impacted projects in California and the Pacific Northwest, while hydrogen efforts in Texas and a three-state deal covering West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania were spared. The Energy Department vowed to fight the ruling, aiming to protect taxpayer dollars and slow the broader effort to unwind Biden-era green programs.

House Speaker Mike Johnson defends Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell against a Justice Department investigation into a controversial renovation project. Johnson insists the probe is not politically motivated and should be allowed to run its course. Critics argue the investigation could harm the Feds independence and rattle markets, while supporters see it as a way to ensure accountability.

U.S. citizens in Iran advised to leave immediately due to escalating protests and potential violence. Security measures tightened, communication restricted. Americans urged to shelter in place, stay informed, and prepare for travel disruptions. Stay safe and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for updates.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the Federal Reserves independence amidst a criminal investigation into Chair Jerome Powell. The probe, triggered by Powells testimony on escalating renovation costs, has drawn criticism from President Trump and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Senator Thom Tillis retaliates by threatening to obstruct Trumps future Fed chair nominees until the investigation concludes, citing potential damage to the Feds credibility. As confirmation battles loom, lawmakers on both sides stress the need to preserve the Feds autonomy, which could significantly impact monetary policy for years to come.

Delaware Ordered to Repay $3.7M in Federal Funds: A Review of TANF Spending The Department of Health and Human Services has mandated Delaware to return nearly $3.7 million in federal funds, as the state allegedly misrepresented its ability to match the funds. This action comes from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) contingency fund, intended for states facing economic hardships. The state was required to spend at least 100% of its own funds, but a review found Delaware only spent 90.2%. TANF supports low-income families with cash aid, food, child care, early learning, and job training. Delaware used the program to help nearly 7,000 families, and only 15 states received this extra contingency funding last year. Nationwide, TANF is set to spend over $16 billion this fiscal year. This repayment demand is part of a broader initiative by federal health officials, who recently froze funding for California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, and New York due to suspected fraud and misuse in welfare programs. As scrutiny intensifies on how states manage these billions, Delaware now faces challenging budget decisions and potential impacts on aid programs, affecting families relying on the support.

Tensions escalate in Minneapolis following ICE agents fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, sparking massive protests. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defends ICE, labeling protesters as siding with criminals. Meanwhile, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem deploys additional officers to Minnesota, as Mayor Jacob Frey and demonstrators demand justice and an ICE-free city. FBI probe faces access issues, fueling a heated standoff.

Arsonist Targets Historic Synagogue, Destroys Torah Scrolls: A fire at Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, leaves the historic synagogue in ruins, with two sacred Torah scrolls destroyed. The suspect, Stephen Pittman, confessed to his father and was charged with arson. The synagogue has a history of hate crimes, including a bombing in 1967. The community vows to rebuild, with nearby churches offering worship space in the meantime.

President Trump grapples with a pivotal decision on Iran, balancing diplomatic overtures and military action amidst a brutal crackdown on protests. Vice President JD Vance advocates for diplomacy, while others caution against escalation. Trump meets with advisors to consider various options, as Irans foreign minister signals readiness for war if talks fail. Trumps choice could significantly impact the unfolding crisis.