republican lawmakers

Four Republicans joined Democrats in advancing a war powers resolution against President Trump's actions in Iran, highlighting congressional concerns over his authority. The symbolic vote underscores a growing divide as lawmakers question the administration's transparency and justification for continued military operations. Despite the measure's limited enforcement power, it signals increasing pressure on the White House.

In a charged political atmosphere, Defence secretary Pete Hegseth is facing tough questions from lawmakers, including some from his own party, regarding the prolonged conflict in Iran and its controversial lack of congressional authorization. The Trump administration's ambitious military spending plan is taking a backseat to growing concerns about economic fallout and rising international tensions.

Donald Trump's grip on the Republican Party is absolute, as evidenced by his endorsements in Texas and Kentucky primaries. Experience and electability are secondary to unwavering loyalty, with dissenters like Senator John Cornyn and Congressman Thomas Massie facing defeat. Trump has reshaped the GOP into a patronage empire where fealty is paramount.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended President Trump's proposed $1.5 trillion military budget amid congressional scrutiny over the Iran war's escalating costs, now at $29 billion. Lawmakers questioned the strain on weapons stockpiles, while Hegseth acknowledged increased production to support ongoing operations and future needs.

State Senator John Cavanaugh and political activist Denise Powell are locked in a tight primary for Nebraska's Blue Dot

The United States is reportedly preparing to indict former Cuban President Raúl Castro in connection with the 1996 shootdown of two Brothers to the Rescue planes. This move, described as imminent, follows decades of tension and calls for accountability over the incident. The potential indictment coincides with increased US pressure on Cuba through sanctions and warnings.

A US congressional inquiry has launched a spotlight on maternity businesses, including a clinic operated by an Indian-origin physician, amid accusations of promoting 'birth tourism.' Legislators assert that the practice takes advantage of immigration laws, enabling international families to secure citizenship for their infants in the United States.

Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl 60 halftime show created massive buzz across the NFL world, but it also sparked major backlash. More than 2,000 complaints reportedly reached the FCC after the performance, with Texas leading the list, followed by Florida and California. While some viewers praised the cultural celebration and energy of the Bad Bunny Halftime Show, others called it inappropriate for family television. The NFL and Roger Goodell defended the decision, while political reactions and FCC findings added another layer to one of the most talked-about Super Bowl controversies in recent memory.

A recent prayer event in Washington, backed by the White House, has sparked debate about religion and nationalism. Thousands gathered for 'Rededicate 250,' with speakers advocating for America to be a Christian nation. This event highlights a trend of merging American identity with Christianity, a move critics liken to a 'Make America Christian' project.

Pakistan reportedly sheltered Iranian military aircraft at its airbases, raising questions about its neutrality as a mediator in the US-Iran conflict. US officials cited in a CBS News report claim Iran moved planes, including a reconnaissance jet, to Pakistan's Nur Khan Air Base. A Pakistani official denied these allegations, calling them implausible.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang was added to President Trump's China visit delegation at the last minute, reportedly at Trump's personal request. Huang's presence was seen as a political liability due to ongoing US-China tensions over advanced chip sales to China, a market where Nvidia has lost significant share.

The Pentagon estimates the war with Iran has cost $25 billion, though sources suggest the true figure could reach $50 billion due to unincluded repair costs. Officials defended the ongoing conflict, calling it an "existential fight" and dismissing concerns of it becoming a "quagmire."

US President Trump has declared hostilities with Iran have ended, despite ongoing US troop presence and persistent regional tensions. This assertion, made in a letter to Congress, aims to bypass the War Powers Resolution's requirement for military action authorization.

US lawmakers are investigating Airbnb and AI firm Anysphere over their use of Chinese AI models, citing national security concerns. Concerns stem from potential data risks and vulnerabilities associated with AI trained by China's censorship regime. Airbnb CEO previously highlighted reliance on Alibaba's Qwen model for its speed and cost-effectiveness.

The Trump administration asserts the U.S. is not at war with Iran, despite approaching the War Powers Resolution's 60-day deadline. House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed this, stating no congressional authorization is needed as active hostilities have ceased. This stance, however, faces challenges from Democrats who argue the deadline remains binding.

President Trump's ambitious Golden Dome missile defense initiative faces significant hurdles. Doubts are mounting over funding, congressional backing, and technical feasibility, despite Pentagon assurances. The project's immense cost, potentially trillions, is a major concern for lawmakers, particularly Republicans wary of budget reconciliation tactics ahead of elections. Key components are slated for 2028.