Senior Republican says he'll 'miss the clowns,' not 'the circus' as he eyes life after Congress

In a surprising move, Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, revoked the security clearances of 37 individuals, including key deputies to CIA director John Ratcliffe, without notifying the White House beforehand. This lack of communication has raised concerns about transparency and coordination within the government, highlighting potential risks in national security operations. The incident underscores the importance of clear channels of communication in sensitive matters, especially when it involves high-level security clearances.

As the threat of a federal government shutdown approaches, Democratic leaders in Congress are calling for a meeting with President Donald Trump. They aim to negotiate a resolution to prevent the shutdown, which they attribute to Trump's decision-making. This situation is critical as it could impact government services and employees, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the parties.

Congress is facing a significant crisis as lawmakers have left Washington, leaving only the Senate to address a looming government shutdown. With funding set to expire at the end of the month, this situation is critical as it could impact various government services and operations, highlighting the ongoing challenges in bipartisan cooperation.

The recent killing of Kirk, a well-known conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, has raised alarms among members of Congress, prompting them to take measures to enhance their security. This tragic event highlights the growing concerns lawmakers have regarding their safety in an increasingly hostile political environment, where threats and calls for violence against political figures are becoming alarmingly frequent. It's a stark reminder of the risks that come with public service and the urgent need for protective measures.

Republican Rep. Scott Perry, known for his strong stance against national debt, is facing criticism after supporting a bill from President Donald Trump that could increase deficits by over $4 trillion in the next decade. This shift raises concerns about the credibility of lawmakers who campaigned on fiscal responsibility, highlighting a growing divide within the party and the challenges of balancing economic promises with legislative actions.

A recent revelation highlights the concerning presence of Chinese propaganda within the U.S. Congress, as newly elected congressman discovered a copy of China Daily, a state-run publication of the Chinese Communist Party, among the free newspapers provided. This infiltration raises alarms about the influence of foreign narratives in American politics and underscores the need for vigilance in safeguarding democratic institutions from external manipulation.

In a recent protest, congressional candidate Kat Abughazaleh was thrown to the ground by an ICE officer, highlighting the escalating tensions surrounding immigration enforcement. Abughazaleh's bold statement about being willing to endure such treatment underscores the dire conditions faced by individuals in detention facilities. This incident not only raises concerns about the treatment of protesters but also emphasizes the urgent need for reform in immigration policies.

As the threat of a government shutdown looms, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer has proposed a significant change to the federal fiscal calendar. By moving the September 30 deadline, Emmer aims to alleviate the recurring pressure Congress faces each year to pass funding bills. This change could potentially lead to a more stable budgeting process, reducing the risk of shutdowns that disrupt government services and operations. It's a timely suggestion as lawmakers grapple with funding issues and seek to avoid the chaos that often accompanies the end of the fiscal year.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez condemned the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, emphasizing that such violence should not be used as an excuse for power abuse. She called the act a 'horrific and vile attack' and urged Congress to focus on uniting the nation rather than exploiting the tragedy for political gain. This statement highlights the ongoing tensions in American politics and the need for responsible leadership in times of crisis.

Recent polling indicates that Republican voters are eager for decisive action regarding Russia, putting pressure on Trump to respond proactively. If he fails to act, Congress appears poised to intervene, which could significantly shape U.S. foreign policy. This situation highlights the growing urgency among voters for a strong stance against international threats, making it a pivotal moment for Trump's leadership.

Robert White, a member of the Washington, D.C. Council, is stepping up to challenge Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton for her seat. This move comes as calls for Norton to retire grow louder, with White expressing concerns about the current state of the district. He highlighted feelings of fear among residents and criticized Congress for financial mismanagement. This election could signal a shift in local leadership and priorities, reflecting the community's desire for change.

Republicans in Congress are pushing to weaken crucial health protections for military personnel against PFAS pollution, which has contaminated drinking water and potentially harmed countless individuals near military bases. This move is part of the National Defense Authorization Act, and if it goes through, it would delay the ban on toxic firefighting foam containing these harmful chemicals. This is significant because it not only jeopardizes the health of service members but also raises concerns about environmental safety and public health.

Carlos Mendoza, the Mets manager, opted not to use closer Edwin Díaz in the 11th inning despite his low pitch count from the previous inning. Instead, Tyler Rogers took the mound but struggled, allowing two runs in a challenging situation. This decision highlights Mendoza's strategy and reliance on his bullpen, which can be crucial in tight games. Understanding these managerial choices can give fans insight into the team's dynamics and decision-making processes.

In a recent incident that sparked significant online debate, a Texas school district superintendent defended teachers who assigned a book containing profanity to students. The controversy began when a social media commenter labeled the educators as 'demons' for their choice. This situation highlights the ongoing discussions about educational content and the balance between literary freedom and appropriateness in schools. It matters because it reflects broader societal values regarding education and the role of teachers in shaping young minds.

Zhang Zhan, a Chinese journalist who bravely reported on the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan, has been sentenced to an additional four years in prison. Initially jailed in 2020 for her efforts to expose the truth, this latest ruling highlights the ongoing repression of free speech in China. Her case is significant as it underscores the risks faced by those who dare to speak out against government narratives, raising concerns about human rights and press freedom in the country.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett's recent comments during a House Judiciary Committee debate have sparked outrage, particularly from the mother of Kayla Hamilton, who was tragically murdered by an illegal migrant. Referring to Hamilton as a 'random dead person' has drawn significant backlash, highlighting the sensitive nature of discussions surrounding immigration and crime. This incident underscores the emotional weight of such debates and the impact of political rhetoric on grieving families.

Mike Trout, the star player for the Los Angeles Angels, achieved a significant milestone by hitting his 400th career home run during a challenging season. This accomplishment not only highlights Trout's exceptional talent but also brings a moment of joy to fans amid the team's struggles, reminding everyone of his enduring impact on the game.

The Pentagon has implemented new reporting rules that journalists must agree to in order to continue their work. This move raises concerns about press freedom and the ability of the media to operate independently. By imposing these restrictions, the Pentagon may limit transparency and accountability, which are crucial for a healthy democracy. It's a significant development that could impact how news is reported on military matters.