In a critical move to prevent a partial government shutdown, Senate Democrats have brokered a deal that separates funding for the Department of Homeland Security from other spending bills. This agreement, confirmed by the office of Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, aims to fund DHS at current levels for two weeks, buying time for negotiations on immigration enforcement changes.
Shutdown Averted Amidst Political Tensions
The deal comes after a key Senate vote failed earlier on Thursday, highlighting the urgency of the situation. If successfully implemented, it would avert a shutdown affecting many government functions, though a temporary funding lapse for DHS remains possible due to House of Representatives approval delays. The impact of such a lapse is still unclear, adding uncertainty to the political landscape.
Demands for Immigration Reforms
Schumer's strategy focuses on pushing for policy changes following the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis. Democrats are united on goals to "rein in ICE," including ending mask-wearing by federal agents, imposing a code of conduct, and ensuring independent investigations of violations. This push reflects ongoing debates over immigration enforcement in the US.
Trump's Legal Battle with the IRS
In a separate development, former President Donald Trump has filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the US treasury and Internal Revenue Service. The complaint, lodged in Miami federal court, alleges that the agencies failed to prevent leaks of his tax returns to media outlets like the New York Times and ProPublica by former IRS contractor Charles Littlejohn.
This lawsuit places Trump in an unusual position, as he sues executive branch agencies while leading them. It fits a pattern of legal actions he has taken since his 2024 re-election, including cases against various media organisations.
Iran Seeks to Avert US Military Action
On the international front, Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, is set to travel to Ankara for talks aimed at preventing a US attack. Turkish diplomats are urging Tehran to offer concessions on its nuclear programme to avoid conflict. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that about 30,000 US military personnel are within range of Iranian drones and missiles, underscoring the high stakes.
Other Key News Updates
In other developments, federal charges have been filed against a man accused of attacking Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, with potential penalties of up to a year in prison. Senator Amy Klobuchar has announced her gubernatorial run in Minnesota, and Venezuela's congress has passed oil sector reforms under US pressure.
Climate and Culture Highlights
A report by Global Energy Monitor reveals that the US is leading a global surge in gas-fired power generation, driven by AI demands, which could result in 12.1 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. In culture, the documentary "Seeds" offers a poignant look at Black farmers in the American south, while Rebecca Solnit critiques technology's impact on human connection.
Additionally, a trend of "rage knitting" has emerged in online communities, with crafters incorporating anti-ICE messages into their work, tapping into a history of resistance through handicrafts.
