Chuck Grassley in the news as GOP Senate stalwart amid subpoenas, hearings, and leadership chatter. Iowa Republican, born 1933, has led the Senate as president pro tempore.
Recent reports reveal that former President Trump and his allies are drafting a potential executive order to declare a national emergency over alleged Chinese interference in U.S. elections. The draft would grant Trump sweeping powers, including banning mail-in ballots and voting machines, bypassing constitutional election authority. The White House denies current plans, emphasizing ongoing policy discussions.
The United States and Israel have launched joint major combat operations against Iran, targeting its missile industry, navy, intelligence and government symbols. President Trump has justified the strikes as eliminating imminent threats and called on Iranians to rise; Iran has responded with missile attacks on Israeli and US targets, killing civilians and deepening regional escalation.
Recent attacks in the US, linked to ideological motives, highlight vulnerabilities as the counterterrorism system faces staffing and resource shortages amid escalating tensions with Iran. The FBI and other agencies are under strain following personnel purges and shifting priorities, raising concerns over national security readiness.
Lawmakers on both sides have pushed for updates on $400 million in Ukraine aid and $200 million for Baltic defense programs, accusing the Pentagon of delays after a May 15 deadline. The dispute comes amid broader criticism of the administration's handling of Ukraine and European security.