Elissa Slotkin is in the news as a fresh U.S. senator from Michigan (D) in 2025, after serving in the U.S. House and DoD official. Short bio: former analyst and deputy assistant secretary in DoD, Michigan Democrat.
Recent activity on prediction platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi shows suspiciously timed bets on geopolitical events, including US military actions. California has introduced new regulations banning officials from profiting on nonpublic information, amid concerns over insider trading and potential influence on policy decisions. The debate highlights ethical and security risks.
On March 12, 2026, Ayman Mohammad Ghazali, a 41-year-old naturalized US citizen born in Lebanon, rammed his car into Temple Israel synagogue near Detroit, firing a gun before dying by suicide after his vehicle caught fire. Armed security guards engaged him, preventing casualties among 140 children and staff inside. The FBI is investigating the attack as targeted violence against the Jewish community amid heightened tensions following the US-Israeli war on Iran.
Security agencies warn of increased Iranian efforts to target Jewish and Israeli targets globally, especially during Passover. Recent attacks include a vehicle ramming at Temple Israel in Michigan and threats to Jewish sites in London. Authorities emphasize heightened vigilance and security measures worldwide.
Governors of New York, Illinois, and California have issued executive orders banning state employees from engaging in insider trading on prediction platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket. The moves follow concerns over suspicious trades linked to geopolitical events, with no proof of illegal activity yet. Warnings have been issued, and legislation is being considered to tighten regulation.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has testified twice before Congress this week about the U.S. war with Iran and a proposed $1.45–$1.5tn Pentagon budget, with officials publicly putting the conflictcost at $25bn. Lawmakers have pressed for a strategy, probed civilian casualties and stockpile depletion, and challenged Hegseth on troop use at US polls and senior officer dismissals.
The SAVE America Act has become a central GOP priority as midterms approach. POLITICO polling shows core provisions have some support, notably voter-ID requirements, but overall enthusiasm for the sweeping elections bill remains limited and partisan divides are sharpening ahead of voting.
Britain has been preparing ships, autonomous mine-hunting drones and crews in Gibraltar to clear the Strait of Hormuz once a peace deal is finalised. The US has been positioning naval forces in the region and conducted self‑defence strikes in southern Iran while pressing allies for support; the strait remains effectively closed and shipping is constrained.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is stating she will not be a candidate in 2028. She has previously signaled openness but now emphasises a robust field will run for president while she remains focused on governance. The Mackinac policy conference has spotlighted the debate amid broader speculation about a White House bid.
Canadian Prime Minister has confirmed the Gordie Howe International Bridge will open by the end of the week, despite threats from U.S. President Trump. Canada and Michigan are co-owners; Trump has demanded concessions, including half-ownership and tariff threats. The bridge aims to ease cross-border movement and boost commerce between Windsor and Detroit.