American politician and governor
CNBC’s 2026 America’s Top States for Business quality-of-life rankings have drawn criticism from conservatives who say the methodology unfairly targets red states. Critics argue the list conflicts with population growth data and different state policy outcomes.
Karoline Leavitt has announced she will leave her role as White House press secretary at the end of August to spend more time with her two young children. President Donald Trump has said she will remain a top outside adviser; the White House has not named a successor and senior officials are expected to brief reporters temporarily.
Leavitt has stepped down as White House press secretary, joining MAGA Inc. and shaping her next moves. Trump is weighing candidates, with speculation centering on Margo Martin and Scott Jennings as potential successors. The departure marks a significant shift in the administration’s communications approach.
Voters across the United States remain skeptical of AI data centers amid concerns over power use and water resources, even as the administration argues for rapid permission and expansion to sustain AI progress. Polls show broad opposition, while politicians debate permits, regulations, and local impacts.
Several Western governments have moved to restrict trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank, while Palestinians question enforcement and impact on everyday life. The move follows rising settlement activity and calls for broader measures against settlement support.