Johnson: Defense bill advances 'Peace Through Strength Agenda'

The U.S. military has seized a large oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, a move confirmed by President Donald Trump, marking a significant escalation in the administration's pressure campaign against Nicolás Maduro's regime. Lawmakers, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, have expressed concerns about the legality and implications of such actions, suggesting it could lead to a war.

The Senate is set to vote on competing health care proposals from Democrats and Republicans as the deadline for extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies approaches. Both parties have presented their bills, but they are expected to fail amid a lack of consensus.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen has raised alarms about the potential loss of health coverage for millions of Americans as Congress approaches a critical vote on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which are set to expire soon. She highlighted that premiums are increasing significantly, warning that without legislative action, many could be left without affordable insurance options.

President Trump has announced military strikes targeting boats suspected of drug trafficking, claiming this will help reduce drug overdose deaths in the U.S. However, experts express skepticism, suggesting that such military actions may be counterproductive and could exacerbate the issue.

President Trump granted clemency to 1,600 individuals in 2025, showcasing a marked difference in his use of presidential powers compared to his first term. This clemency reflects his administration's approach to justice and rehabilitation, emphasizing a more lenient stance on certain offenses.

The US House of Representatives has passed a defense policy bill authorizing $900 billion for military programs, which includes a pay raise for troops and reforms to the Department of Defense's procurement processes. The bill, comprising 3,000 pages, also demands more transparency regarding military strikes against suspected drug boats in the Caribbean.

Congress is advancing a massive defense bill that includes new restrictions targeting China, reflecting a shift in U.S. policy despite the Trump administration's attempts to ease trade tensions. The proposed legislation aims to impose bans on military technology and investments related to China, indicating a more aggressive stance towards Beijing.

Republicans in Congress are struggling to reach a consensus on a health care plan as the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies approaches in 2026. This lack of agreement comes at a critical time as the GOP faces pressure to present a viable alternative to the Democrats' extension of these subsidies.