American congressman, representing Tennessee’s 2nd district since 2019
President Trump has begun flying a $400m Boeing 747-8 donated by Qatar but used an older Air Force One during a July NATO trip after officials raised security concerns. The administration has launched a leak probe led by the FBI director and White House chief of staff; The New York Times reporters were subpoenaed as investigators sought sources about the jet's defensive capabilities.
The White House has released a July Fourth report criticizing the Smithsonian’s portrayal of American history as biased toward activism. President Trump has issued an executive order directing sidewalk signs outside the Smithsonian and a temporary exhibit to present what he calls accurate information, while Smithsonian leadership defends ongoing scholarship and a fuller account of the nation’s story.
House Republicans have advanced a reconciliation budget resolution that would channel roughly $60 billion to the Iran war, boost Pentagon and farm aid and include parts of President Trump’s elections package. Democrats have opposed the plan’s high spending and social riders. Separately, more than 100 House Democrats voted to withhold military aid to Israel, exposing a deep intra-party split ahead of the midterms.
Rep. Chuck Edwards has been censured by the House Ethics Committee for sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. The move follows Axios reporting that he singled out two young female staffers. Edwards, who has dropped his reelection bid, argues the conduct was not sexual harassment and defends gifts and interactions with staffers.
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.
The Los Angeles mayor has not appeared at a congressional hearing on homelessness, citing a busy schedule as scrutiny over the city’s handling of funds and the LAHSA board intensifies. Lawmakers have shown frustration as funding discussions pivot and questions remain about accountability.
Policy leaders warn that unchecked AI risks could reshape the economy and elections. Democrats are weighing committees and guardrails, while Republicans push for industry-led standards amid a fragmented political debate.