Trump greets Saudi crown prince at the White House

A federal court in El Paso ruled that a redistricting plan supported by former President Trump and Texas Republicans unlawfully diluted the voting power of minority groups. The court's decision blocks the implementation of the new congressional map ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, which was designed to favor Republican candidates. This ruling is seen as a significant setback for the GOP's electoral strategy in Texas.

Bill Ackman, the founder of Pershing Square, has criticized former President Trump's proposal for an initial public offering (IPO) of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, deeming it neither feasible nor desirable. Ackman, whose fund holds significant stakes in both government-sponsored enterprises, has benefited from the rising share prices since privatization discussions began. He suggests alternative solutions to address the challenges facing these entities.

President Trump defended Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, asserting he 'knew nothing' about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This statement contradicts a CIA assessment that concluded the Crown Prince approved the killing. Trump's remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of U.S.-Saudi relations and the implications of Khashoggi's murder on international diplomacy.

Both the House and Senate have overwhelmingly approved legislation requiring the release of the Justice Department's files on Jeffrey Epstein. The bill, which received a 427-1 vote in the House, is expected to be signed into law by President Trump. This move aims to enhance transparency regarding the investigations into Epstein, a convicted sex offender.

President Trump announced that the United States would permit Saudi Arabia to purchase F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin without any diplomatic conditions. This decision reflects a significant shift in U.S. arms sales policy, emphasizing a strong defense relationship with Saudi Arabia. The F-35s are among the most advanced fighter jets in the world, and their sale is expected to enhance Saudi Arabia's military capabilities.

President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico has firmly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump's threats of military strikes against drug cartels in Mexico. Trump had indicated openness to such actions, stating, "It's OK with me," but Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico will not accept any U.S. intervention in its territory, citing historical context from the Mexican-American War. This stance reflects Mexico's commitment to sovereignty and non-interventionism in its domestic affairs.

Republicans are unlikely to renew Affordable Care Act subsidies before the year-end deadline, as Obamacare health insurance premiums continue to rise. Former President Trump has ruled out any extension of these tax credits, which could leave many Americans facing higher costs for health coverage. The expiration of these subsidies may exacerbate the financial burden on individuals and families relying on the Affordable Care Act for their healthcare needs.

President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House to celebrate a significant investment partnership. This visit marks the Crown Prince's first trip to the U.S. since 2018, emphasizing the strengthening ties between the two nations. The event featured a lavish ceremony, showcasing the importance of Saudi investment in the U.S. economy, which is projected to reach $1 trillion.