US reaches deal with China to speed up rare earth shipments, White House says, amid efforts to end trade war

President Trump is visiting Texas in the wake of catastrophic floods that have claimed over 120 lives. While he’s reportedly stepping back from plans to dismantle FEMA, he’s downplaying the disaster as a rare "200-year" event. Meanwhile, a new report reveals fossil fuel companies funneled $19 million into Trump’s inauguration fund—nearly 8% of total donations—sparking fresh scrutiny over his administration’s ties to Big Oil.

The U.S. is slashing research funding and tightening skilled-worker immigration policies, which could seriously dent its long-standing edge in innovation. These moves risk driving talent and breakthroughs elsewhere, weakening America’s economic powerhouse status.

Editor’s Note: Innovation thrives on brains and money—two things the U.S. is making scarcer. Cutting research budgets and making it harder for skilled immigrants to stay could backfire, sending the next big ideas (and the people behind them) to rival economies. It’s not just about labs and visas; it’s about whether the U.S. stays ahead or gets left behind.

Federal immigration agents raided two cannabis farms in California, arresting around 200 undocumented workers. The operation turned deadly when one worker died from injuries sustained during the raid, according to the United Farm Workers. The DHS hasn’t released details on how the death occurred, but tensions were clearly high during the enforcement action.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another routine immigration raid—it’s a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over enforcement tactics and worker safety. A death during an operation like this raises serious questions about the use of force, the conditions of farm labor (even in legal industries like cannabis), and whether heavy-handed crackdowns do more harm than good. It’s also a reminder of how deeply undocumented workers are embedded in sectors that power state economies, even where cannabis is fully legal. Expect this to fuel calls for immigration reform—or at least stricter oversight of raids.

Mike Rizzo, the longtime Nationals GM who was let go earlier this year, is keeping things classy—he’s offering to buy drinks for fans at the Home Run Derby and says he looks back on his 16-year run with pride, not bitterness.

Editor’s Note: Even in the messy world of sports firings, Rizzo’s gesture is a reminder that how you exit matters. His offer isn’t just about drinks—it’s a nod to the fans who supported his teams, including the 2019 World Series champs. For baseball fans, it’s a rare feel-good moment in a business usually dominated by drama.

President Trump appeared on Fox News to discuss ongoing rescue and recovery efforts in Kerrville, Texas, where devastating flash floods have caused significant damage and loss of life. He pledged federal support to help the state rebuild, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Editor’s Note: When natural disasters strike, federal aid and leadership can make a huge difference in how quickly communities recover. Trump’s public commitment signals attention to the crisis, but the real test will be how effectively resources reach those in need. For Texans affected by the floods, this isn’t just political talk—it’s about getting help where it’s needed most.