Newsom taps former CDC leaders critical of Trump-era health policies for new initiative

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the hiring of two former senior officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as public health consultants. One of these officials was previously dismissed by the Trump administration, highlighting a shift in the state's public health strategy.

The Trump administration's recent announcement of a $12 billion bailout for farmers has sparked mixed reactions, with some farmers expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of this one-time financial aid in addressing long-term economic challenges. Many are questioning their reliance on government assistance amid ongoing trade tensions and tariff impacts.

The Trump administration has announced the launch of the Tech Force program, aimed at recruiting 1,000 technologists to assist in the modernization of government operations through artificial intelligence over two-year terms.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed Dr. Susan Monarez, a former director of the CDC, to lead the newly established Public Health Network Innovation Exchange (PHNIX). This initiative is a direct response to the dismantling of public health safeguards during the Trump administration, aiming to enhance the state's public health infrastructure.

Two U.S. Army soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed in an ambush by the Islamic State in Palmyra, Syria, marking a significant escalation in U.S. military involvement in the region. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the identities of the soldiers, emphasizing the ongoing risks faced by U.S. forces in Syria.

Attorneys from the U.S. Department of Justice have alleged that they faced political pressure to accuse the University of California of antisemitism against Jewish students and faculty, a situation described by one lawyer as a 'hit job' orchestrated by the Trump administration. Nine attorneys, some remaining anonymous, reported feeling compelled to conclude that the university system had violated the law before fully assessing the facts, leading to their resignations.

The Trump administration is currently engaged in a legal battle to keep Kilmar Abrego Garcia in detention, as they argue that a federal judge should not interfere with executive branch decisions regarding the custody of illegal immigrants awaiting deportation. This comes after a judge previously ruled that the administration lacked a valid removal order against Garcia, leading to his release from ICE custody.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated a federal court hearing regarding California's Proposition 50 redistricting measure, accusing the Democratic campaign arm of obstruction and alleging racial gerrymandering by Governor Gavin Newsom. This legal challenge underscores the contentious nature of redistricting in California, particularly as it relates to racial equity and representation.