American senator from Oregon, Democratic Party
U.S. lawmakers condemn President Trump's social media threat to attack Iran, warning it could be a war crime and undermine diplomacy. Meanwhile, Trump and Republican allies escalate rhetoric, with some officials cautioning against targeting civilian infrastructure. The Biden administration faces pressure amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
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.
House Republican leaders have pulled a scheduled vote on a Democratic war-powers resolution to compel President Trump to seek congressional authorization for the Iran campaign after defections and multiple absences made it clear they lacked the votes to block the measure. The Senate has recently advanced a similar resolution as some Republicans have joined Democrats.
Universities UK-led polling shows VCs warn of staff redundancies and reduced outreach as funding pressures bite. Higher education leaders say government funding must better reflect the sector’s value, while student support could be at risk as hardship grants are reconsidered.
The Education Department has announced a two-year, temporary 1% reduction in interest rates for Direct Loans issued after July 2012, available to autopay borrowers through June 30, 2028. Eligible borrowers on autopay will see the discount automatically, with action required only for new enrollments by Sept. 30, 2026. The policy forms part of a broad overhaul of repayment plans under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
The National Science Foundation has halted plans to remove or descale the Ocean Observatories Initiative, after lawmakers and scientists warned of risks to climate data, weather forecasts and coastal safety. An expert panel will assess future needs while equipment already removed will be redeployed. The move follows bipartisan pressure and a Senate bill to block decommissioning.
The Reflecting Pool renovation has exposed persistent problems after a $14.8 million upgrade. Algae blooms and peeling blue coating persist as authorities investigate possible vandalism and operational issues. Nano-bubble ozone tech and hydrogen peroxide are being deployed to address algae while investigators review security and contracting decisions.
The Reflecting Pool renovation is under renewed scrutiny as allegations of vandalism surface, algaes blooms persist, and multiple arrests are reported in connection with the project. Officials say new damage has been documented and contractors are facing questions about contracts and transparency ahead of the 250th anniversary.