Alerts Sign-up
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a significant legislative package on May 22, aiming to advance key components of President Donald Trump's agenda. This "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" narrowly succeeded by one vote, amidst concerns about its potential impact on the national deficit. The legislation focuses on tax and immigration policy changes and has received mixed reactions, particularly regarding Medicaid cuts.
In a related development, President Trump engaged in a tense Oval Office meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Trump alleged a "genocide" against white farmers in South Africa, presenting videos as evidence. However, these claims are disputed by reports such as those from the BBC and the State Department, which attribute incidents to broader crime trends rather than racial targeting.
Vice President JD Vance expressed views on judicial deference during an interview on Ross Douthat's podcast. Vance criticized Chief Justice John Roberts' remarks about the judiciary's role in checking executive power. He argued for more deference to elected officials’ policies, especially concerning immigration enforcement.
Meanwhile, public opinion appears divided over Trump's performance. A Marquette Law School Poll indicated majority disapproval of his overall job handling but noted approval for his border security efforts.
Legislatively, the DEFIANCE Act was reintroduced following Trump's signing of the Take It Down Act. This new measure seeks to empower victims of nonconsensual explicit images with legal recourse against perpetrators.
Additionally, Virginia Congressman Gerry Connolly passed away at 75 after battling cancer. His family highlighted his contributions to Northern Virginia over nearly four decades in public service.
Kate Scanlon reported this story for OSV News from Washington.
