Name of Product: HydroTech 5/8-inch Expandable Burst-Proof Hoses

Hazard: The recalled hoses can burst, posing an impact hazard and a risk of temporarily impaired hearing.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled hoses. Consumers that purchased products from Ace Hardware, Do It Best, Home Depot or Walmart should bring their hoses to those stores to return them for a full refund.

Consumers who purchased products from other retailers should cut off the regulator-end of their hose and contact Winston Products for a full refund. To receive the refund, consumers should submit photos of the cut hose, showing the date code location with the consumer’s initials and the date written in permanent marker on the regulator, to Winston Product’s online form at&nbsp;<a href="https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall">https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall</a>.&nbsp;

The firm has received at least 222 reports of the hoses bursting, resulting in at least 29 injuries, including one bone bruise, two sprains and five reports of temporarily impaired hearing from the sound of the hose bursting.

Sold At:Ace Hardware, Amazon, Do It Best, Home Depot, Target, Walmart and other stores nationwide and online from January 2021 through April 2025 for between $20 and $136.Importer(s):

This recall involves HydroTech 5/8-inch Expandable Burst-Proof Hoses manufactured on or before August 31, 2024. The hoses were sold in lengths of 25, 50, 60, 75, 100 and 200 feet in various colors. Date code markings are located on the end of the hose that attaches to the spigot, visible when the black rubber washer is removed. Hoses with no markings or a marking ending in -211, -212, -213, -214, -221, -222, -223, -224, -231, -232, -233, -234, -241, -242 or -243 are included in this recall. On some hose packages, the manufacture date is listed in the month-year format. For example, 0824 is August 2024 and is included in this recall.

Winston Products toll-free at 888-412-2396 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:HydrotechVoluntaryRecall@hydrotechproducts.com">HydrotechVoluntaryRecall@hydrotechproducts.com</a>, or go to&nbsp;<a href="https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall">https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://hydrotechproducts.com/">https://hydrotechproducts.com/</a>&nbsp;and click on "IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL INFORMATION" at the top of the page for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753380204342.png" alt="Photo CPSC" />
 <figcaption>Photo CPSC</figcaption>
 </figure>Name of Product: HydroTech 5/8-inch Expandable Burst-Proof HosesHazard: The recalled hoses can burst, posing an impact hazard and a risk of temporarily impaired hearing.Remedy: RefundRecall Date: July 24, 2025Units: About 3.6 millionemedy:Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled hoses. Consumers that purchased products from Ace Hardware, Do It Best, Home Depot or Walmart should bring their hoses to those stores to return them for a full refund.Consumers who purchased products from other retailers should cut off the regulator-end of their hose and contact Winston Products for a full refund. To receive the refund, consumers should submit photos of the cut hose, showing the date code location with the consumer’s initials and the date written in permanent marker on the regulator, to Winston Product’s online form at&nbsp;<a href="https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall">https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall</a>.&nbsp;Incidents/Injuries:The firm has received at least 222 reports of the hoses bursting, resulting in at least 29 injuries, including one bone bruise, two sprains and five reports of temporarily impaired hearing from the sound of the hose bursting.Sold At:Ace Hardware, Amazon, Do It Best, Home Depot, Target, Walmart and other stores nationwide and online from January 2021 through April 2025 for between $20 and $136.Importer(s):Winston Products, of Glenwillow, OhioThis recall involves HydroTech 5/8-inch Expandable Burst-Proof Hoses manufactured on or before August 31, 2024. The hoses were sold in lengths of 25, 50, 60, 75, 100 and 200 feet in various colors. Date code markings are located on the end of the hose that attaches to the spigot, visible when the black rubber washer is removed. Hoses with no markings or a marking ending in -211, -212, -213, -214, -221, -222, -223, -224, -231, -232, -233, -234, -241, -242 or -243 are included in this recall. On some hose packages, the manufacture date is listed in the month-year format. For example, 0824 is August 2024 and is included in this recall.Winston Products toll-free at 888-412-2396 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:HydrotechVoluntaryRecall@hydrotechproducts.com">HydrotechVoluntaryRecall@hydrotechproducts.com</a>, or go to&nbsp;<a href="https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall">https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://hydrotechproducts.com/">https://hydrotechproducts.com/</a>&nbsp;and click on "IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL INFORMATION" at the top of the page for more information.

HydroTech hoses recalled: Hundreds burst, 29 people injured

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced she advanced over $18 million in funding for critical Nebraska water infrastructure projects.The funding was included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026&nbsp;Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which now awaits consideration on the Senate Floor.“Strong, reliable water infrastructure is an essential part of our daily lives. I’m proud to advance this funding for these critical projects, which will improve the lives of Nebraskans for years to come. I look forward to supporting this bill through to final passage and returning more taxpayer money back to our state,”&nbsp;Fischer said.Fischer advanced funding to support critical water infrastructure projects:

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced she advanced over $18 million in funding for critical Nebraska water infrastructure projects.The funding was included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026&nbsp;Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which now awaits consideration on the Senate Floor.“Strong, reliable water infrastructure is an essential part of our daily lives. I’m proud to advance this funding for these critical projects, which will improve the lives of Nebraskans for years to come. I look forward to supporting this bill through to final passage and returning more taxpayer money back to our state,”&nbsp;Fischer said.Fischer advanced funding to support critical water infrastructure projects:<ul>
 <li>$8.25 million&nbsp;to improve the Santee Sioux Tribe’s water source</li><li>$3.2 million&nbsp;to repair and upgrade the water treatment plant in McCook</li><li>$2.3 million&nbsp;to construct a retention lagoon, lift station, and sanitary sewer extensions in Greeley</li><li>$1.4 million&nbsp;for watershed and stream improvements in the Middle Niobrara Natural Resources District</li><li>$776,000&nbsp;to reconstruction water and storm sewer facilities in Gothenburg</li><li>$696,000&nbsp;to replace an aging well and renovate the sanitary water storage tank in Farwell</li><li>$620,000&nbsp;to construct a new well and transmission line in Genoa</li><li>$600,000&nbsp;to construct an additional lagoon cell in Shelby</li><li>$468,000&nbsp;to line the sewer mains in Valparaiso</li><li>$100,000&nbsp;to renovate an existing lagoon cell and install a depth mark in Ong</li>
 </ul>

Fischer Advances Over $18 Million for Nebraska Water Infrastructure Projects

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753374239472.png" alt="Hulk Hogan spoke on the final night of the Republican National Convention last July-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Hulk Hogan spoke on the final night of the Republican National Convention last July-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.&mdash; WWE (@WWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/WWE/status/1948414335153230023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FClearwaterPolice%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0272xskH6HPZZSAZefBwY23wP1UjQgC1dJjALZMEbkSHrLxhoG8dSZRnPG7YKFWhtml&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="469" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/HulkHogan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HulkHogan</a>: &quot;As an entertainer I try to stay out of politics, but after everything that&#39;s happened to our country over the past four years and after everything that happened last weekend I can no longer stay silent...Donald Trump is a real American hero!&quot; <a href="https://t.co/UxM0ZieYfM">pic.twitter.com/UxM0ZieYfM</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814113807662567834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">From 2024 RNC. Watch the full video here: <a href="https://t.co/10hAILirT9">https://t.co/10hAILirT9</a> <a href="https://t.co/lsr2lFymhn">https://t.co/lsr2lFymhn</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1948426827858354619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An American Legend. <a href="https://t.co/DVQuR2YIxJ">pic.twitter.com/DVQuR2YIxJ</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1948419594827235760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Hulk Hogan, pro westling superstar, dead at 71

Columbia University has finalized an&nbsp;<a href="https://president.columbia.edu/content/our-resolution-federal-government" target="_blank">agreement with the federal government</a>,&nbsp;ending a period of considerable institutional uncertainty, according to a statement from&nbsp;Claire Shipman Acting President.

This agreement resolves multiple federal agency investigations and protects Columbia’s academic mission, research enterprise, and independence. 

The resolution will allow the University to move forward with clarity and focus—returning our full attention to the work of teaching, discovery, and public service. It will also enable all of us to turn our attention to mending and rebuilding our community.With the agreement, our access to billions of dollars in federal research funding will resume. 

Terminated grants will be reinstated and our faculty will become eligible again for future grants, as well as continuations of existing grants. Not only will this resolution restore Columbia’s ability to fully participate in its longstanding federal research partnerships, but it also will ensure critical continuity for faculty, students, and staff across every discipline—many of whom have seen years, even decades, of progress toward medical and scientific discoveries placed at risk.

 I’ve received an outpouring of relief from our scientists in recent days as they started to learn that restored grant funding will allow their vital work to continue.Critically, Columbia retains control over its academic and operational decisions. 

As set forth in the agreement: “No provision of this agreement, individually or taken together, shall be construed as giving the United States authority to dictate faculty hiring, university hiring, admissions decisions, or the content of academic speech.” This was our north star, and we did not waver from it. Columbia’s governance remains in our control. The federal government will not dictate what we teach, who teaches, or which students we admit.

As part of the agreement, Columbia will pay a $200 million settlement to the federal government over three years, and $21 million to settle investigations involving the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. I recognize these are substantial settlements. 

As Acting President, together with our Board of Trustees, we had to look at all the facts. We have seen not only $400 million in federal grants frozen, but also the majority of our $1.3 billion a year in federal funding placed on hold. 

The prospect of that continuing indefinitely, along with the potential loss of top scientists, would jeopardize our status as a world-leading research institution.Furthermore, as I have discussed on many occasions with our community, we carefully explored all options open to us. We might have achieved short-term litigation victories, but not without incurring deeper long-term damage—the likely loss of future federal funding, the possibility of losing accreditation, and the potential revocation of visa status of thousands of international students.

As part of the settlement, the University has not admitted wrongdoing and does not agree with the government’s conclusion that it violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. We are not, however, denying the very serious and painful challenges our institution has faced with antisemitism. For these reasons, we took several important corrective steps in March, many of which are in this agreement, including a new provision for a liaison to the Jewish community, situated in University Life.Our commitment to creating a safe, respectful community must extend well beyond any agreement with the government. 

I announced additional measures to combat antisemitism last week. We know there is still more to do. We will work on multiple fronts to combat all forms of hatred and intolerance at Columbia, and you will see more efforts to that end in the coming months.The success of the agreement requires that both parties honor it, and commit to the processes laid out in the event of disputes. To that end, we have agreed on a robust dispute resolution process that includes a mutually agreed upon independent monitor and arbitrator as neutral third parties, rather than ceding authority to the government or a court. 

The process requires that the government go through a very specific, prescribed set of steps if it believes we are not meeting the terms of the agreement. If the parties can’t agree, the matter goes to the arbitrator, and then, as needed, to court. The agreement allows us to hold the government to that process with respect to any concerns about compliance. This predictable structure is far preferable, in our view, to piecemeal scrutiny, and will allow us to focus on long-term progress for our institution.Certain terms of this settlement pertain to admissions and hiring and are wholly consistent with existing federal anti-discrimination laws, which our institution has always followed, and will always follow. That language was carefully drafted; we have agreed to provide data to which the government is entitled, and is currently requesting from scores of institutions, including ours.

 In several instances, the agreement codifies other practices or policies already in existence, or reviews already underway. We must always comply with government regulations regarding the international student visa program, for example.For months, Columbia’s discussions with the federal government have been set up as a test of principle—a binary fight between courage and capitulation. 

But like most things in life, the reality is far more complex. We established our non-negotiable academic and institutional boundaries clearly, and we chose to talk and to listen. We certainly did not always agree with the government’s proposals, nor they with ours. It is important for the community to know that a broad academic leadership team worked with me closely, as well as with our Board of Trustees, to achieve this resolution. 

I consulted widely outside of the institution as well. In the end, we have arrived at a carefully crafted agreement that protects our institution and our values, and that will allow us to move forward, with strength, resuming the vital work we do in service to the nation and to humanity.Countless faculty members and administrators have already been doing the nearly impossible, often invisible work, under enormous pressure, of safeguarding Columbia’s future. 

They’ve confronted the real hardship caused by the loss of federal funding to our research enterprise, borne witness to the painful divides that have opened in our community, and labored to find constructive solutions to all of it. For this wisdom and dedication, I am grateful. It is the best of Columbia on display.My hope is that the Columbia University community is ready to reset, to focus again on academic rigor and respectful debate, and to use this moment of challenge as a chance to imagine and build a stronger institution than ever.

 I am committed to that process.We understand that members of our community will hold different views about this decision. We made it with care, with seriousness, and with an unwavering commitment to the mission, values, and future of Columbia University.

Columbia University has finalized an&nbsp;<a href="https://president.columbia.edu/content/our-resolution-federal-government" target="_blank">agreement with the federal government</a>,&nbsp;ending a period of considerable institutional uncertainty, according to a statement from&nbsp;Claire Shipman Acting President.This agreement resolves multiple federal agency investigations and protects Columbia’s academic mission, research enterprise, and independence. The resolution will allow the University to move forward with clarity and focus—returning our full attention to the work of teaching, discovery, and public service. It will also enable all of us to turn our attention to mending and rebuilding our community.With the agreement, our access to billions of dollars in federal research funding will resume. Terminated grants will be reinstated and our faculty will become eligible again for future grants, as well as continuations of existing grants. Not only will this resolution restore Columbia’s ability to fully participate in its longstanding federal research partnerships, but it also will ensure critical continuity for faculty, students, and staff across every discipline—many of whom have seen years, even decades, of progress toward medical and scientific discoveries placed at risk. I’ve received an outpouring of relief from our scientists in recent days as they started to learn that restored grant funding will allow their vital work to continue.Critically, Columbia retains control over its academic and operational decisions. As set forth in the agreement: “No provision of this agreement, individually or taken together, shall be construed as giving the United States authority to dictate faculty hiring, university hiring, admissions decisions, or the content of academic speech.” This was our north star, and we did not waver from it. Columbia’s governance remains in our control. The federal government will not dictate what we teach, who teaches, or which students we admit.As part of the agreement, Columbia will pay a $200 million settlement to the federal government over three years, and $21 million to settle investigations involving the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. I recognize these are substantial settlements. As Acting President, together with our Board of Trustees, we had to look at all the facts. We have seen not only $400 million in federal grants frozen, but also the majority of our $1.3 billion a year in federal funding placed on hold. The prospect of that continuing indefinitely, along with the potential loss of top scientists, would jeopardize our status as a world-leading research institution.Furthermore, as I have discussed on many occasions with our community, we carefully explored all options open to us. We might have achieved short-term litigation victories, but not without incurring deeper long-term damage—the likely loss of future federal funding, the possibility of losing accreditation, and the potential revocation of visa status of thousands of international students.As part of the settlement, the University has not admitted wrongdoing and does not agree with the government’s conclusion that it violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. We are not, however, denying the very serious and painful challenges our institution has faced with antisemitism. For these reasons, we took several important corrective steps in March, many of which are in this agreement, including a new provision for a liaison to the Jewish community, situated in University Life.Our commitment to creating a safe, respectful community must extend well beyond any agreement with the government. I announced additional measures to combat antisemitism last week. We know there is still more to do. We will work on multiple fronts to combat all forms of hatred and intolerance at Columbia, and you will see more efforts to that end in the coming months.The success of the agreement requires that both parties honor it, and commit to the processes laid out in the event of disputes. To that end, we have agreed on a robust dispute resolution process that includes a mutually agreed upon independent monitor and arbitrator as neutral third parties, rather than ceding authority to the government or a court. The process requires that the government go through a very specific, prescribed set of steps if it believes we are not meeting the terms of the agreement. If the parties can’t agree, the matter goes to the arbitrator, and then, as needed, to court. The agreement allows us to hold the government to that process with respect to any concerns about compliance. This predictable structure is far preferable, in our view, to piecemeal scrutiny, and will allow us to focus on long-term progress for our institution.Certain terms of this settlement pertain to admissions and hiring and are wholly consistent with existing federal anti-discrimination laws, which our institution has always followed, and will always follow. That language was carefully drafted; we have agreed to provide data to which the government is entitled, and is currently requesting from scores of institutions, including ours. In several instances, the agreement codifies other practices or policies already in existence, or reviews already underway. We must always comply with government regulations regarding the international student visa program, for example.For months, Columbia’s discussions with the federal government have been set up as a test of principle—a binary fight between courage and capitulation. But like most things in life, the reality is far more complex. We established our non-negotiable academic and institutional boundaries clearly, and we chose to talk and to listen. We certainly did not always agree with the government’s proposals, nor they with ours. It is important for the community to know that a broad academic leadership team worked with me closely, as well as with our Board of Trustees, to achieve this resolution. I consulted widely outside of the institution as well. In the end, we have arrived at a carefully crafted agreement that protects our institution and our values, and that will allow us to move forward, with strength, resuming the vital work we do in service to the nation and to humanity.Countless faculty members and administrators have already been doing the nearly impossible, often invisible work, under enormous pressure, of safeguarding Columbia’s future. They’ve confronted the real hardship caused by the loss of federal funding to our research enterprise, borne witness to the painful divides that have opened in our community, and labored to find constructive solutions to all of it. For this wisdom and dedication, I am grateful. It is the best of Columbia on display.My hope is that the Columbia University community is ready to reset, to focus again on academic rigor and respectful debate, and to use this moment of challenge as a chance to imagine and build a stronger institution than ever. I am committed to that process.We understand that members of our community will hold different views about this decision. We made it with care, with seriousness, and with an unwavering commitment to the mission, values, and future of Columbia University.

Columbia to pay more than $220M in deal with Trump to restore federal funding

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">This is sending SHOCKWAVES through DC and the Democrats KNOW IT! This is perhaps one of the most crucial video segments of 2025. <a href="https://t.co/PMpxlbZwz6">pic.twitter.com/PMpxlbZwz6</a>&mdash; Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) <a href="https://twitter.com/GuntherEagleman/status/1948083367909405136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DNIGabbard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DNIGabbard</a>: If Russia was trying to influence the election like Democrats said in order to boost Donald Trump, they&#39;d have released the most damning information on Hillary prior to the election. They specifically withheld it because they thought she&#39;d win. <a href="https://t.co/XQQgXzmUNE">https://t.co/XQQgXzmUNE</a> <a href="https://t.co/8oSTEf8EVb">pic.twitter.com/8oSTEf8EVb</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1948090161100718176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PressSec</a>: &quot;Tulsi Gabbard unveiled shocking new evidence that former President Barack Obama and top aides in the Obama administration conspired to subvert President Trump&#39;s 2016 election victory and undermined the democratic will of the American people.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/pLo9jiutaH">pic.twitter.com/pLo9jiutaH</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1948083824442638462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🧵 New evidence has emerged of the most egregious weaponization and politicization of intelligence in American history. Per President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>&#39;s directive, I have declassified a <a href="https://twitter.com/HouseIntel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HouseIntel</a> oversight majority staff report that exposes how the Obama Administration… <a href="https://t.co/0sS4Df8yoI">pic.twitter.com/0sS4Df8yoI</a>&mdash; DNI Tulsi Gabbard (@DNIGabbard) <a href="https://twitter.com/DNIGabbard/status/1948007534960198036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">LIE: Putin and the Russian Government helped Trump win the 2016 election TRUTH: President Obama, former Director of the CIA John Brennan, and others fabricated the Russia Hoax, suppressed intelligence showing Putin was preparing for a Clinton victory, manufactured findings from… <a href="https://t.co/nkaLDMrUSv">pic.twitter.com/nkaLDMrUSv</a>&mdash; DNI Tulsi Gabbard (@DNIGabbard) <a href="https://twitter.com/DNIGabbard/status/1948007538902904833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DNIGabbard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DNIGabbard</a> on new Obama report: &quot;There is irrefutable evidence that detail how President Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/sCOivLlCDL">pic.twitter.com/sCOivLlCDL</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1948104168587010258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥DNI lashes out at Obama administration on Russia investigation

BASSETT, Neb. — Two Nebraska sale barns etched their names in the history books Wednesday with record-breaking feeder cattle prices that sent shockwaves through the national livestock market.

At Bassett Livestock Auction, the northern Nebraska barn posted the five highest 10-weight steer prices ever recorded in the United States, highlighted by 159 head at 1,038 pounds selling for $318.25 per hundredweight. The barn also shattered the all-time national record for 9-weight steers, selling 180 head at 936 pounds for $336.75/cwt.

The historic July 23 sale pushed all five top spots for 10-weight steers (1,000–1,099 lbs) onto Bassett’s ledger. Prices for those five lots ranged from $315.75 to $318.25 per hundredweight, a strong signal of continued demand for heavyweight feeder cattle amid tight supplies and elevated corn prices.

Meanwhile, Albion Livestock Market, located in east-central Nebraska, notched major milestones of its own Wednesday. The barn recorded the second- and third-highest 8-weight steer sales in U.S. history. A draft of 65 head at 828 pounds sold for $344.50/cwt, while 43 head at 864 pounds brought $343.50/cwt.

Albion also set its personal best for 7-weights, selling 12 head at 700 pounds for $355.00/cwt—one of the top prices nationally in that weight class so far this year.

Wednesday’s sales come at a time when feeder cattle prices are surging amid lower national herd numbers and strong feedlot interest. Analysts say the records reflect both market volatility and the premium paid for high-quality, reputation cattle.

“These kinds of sales don’t just happen,” said one market observer. “They’re a combination of excellent genetics, precise management, and a red-hot market willing to pay for performance.”

The back-to-back record days at Bassett and Albion are expected to influence pricing dynamics across the Midwest heading into late summer.

BASSETT, Neb. — Two Nebraska sale barns etched their names in the history books Wednesday with record-breaking feeder cattle prices that sent shockwaves through the national livestock market.At Bassett Livestock Auction, the northern Nebraska barn posted the five highest 10-weight steer prices ever recorded in the United States, highlighted by 159 head at 1,038 pounds selling for $318.25 per hundredweight. The barn also shattered the all-time national record for 9-weight steers, selling 180 head at 936 pounds for $336.75/cwt.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNationalBeefWireDVAuction%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0NsRRAhfxa2F5YiUwTGVTeGVavHpdbcRi84yMhM4NRarULTiCtoqcXAN97e8Qfpxwl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="532" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The historic July 23 sale pushed all five top spots for 10-weight steers (1,000–1,099 lbs) onto Bassett’s ledger. Prices for those five lots ranged from $315.75 to $318.25 per hundredweight, a strong signal of continued demand for heavyweight feeder cattle amid tight supplies and elevated corn prices.Meanwhile, Albion Livestock Market, located in east-central Nebraska, notched major milestones of its own Wednesday. The barn recorded the second- and third-highest 8-weight steer sales in U.S. history. A draft of 65 head at 828 pounds sold for $344.50/cwt, while 43 head at 864 pounds brought $343.50/cwt.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNationalBeefWireDVAuction%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0UyhWzA2rCeV8CfRjE4ZKUiErC4cQoWBwweKuoK1HryiHrNKXRSkfe4yMZcW2okPGl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="600" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Albion also set its personal best for 7-weights, selling 12 head at 700 pounds for $355.00/cwt—one of the top prices nationally in that weight class so far this year.Wednesday’s sales come at a time when feeder cattle prices are surging amid lower national herd numbers and strong feedlot interest. Analysts say the records reflect both market volatility and the premium paid for high-quality, reputation cattle.“These kinds of sales don’t just happen,” said one market observer. “They’re a combination of excellent genetics, precise management, and a red-hot market willing to pay for performance.”The back-to-back record days at Bassett and Albion are expected to influence pricing dynamics across the Midwest heading into late summer.

Nebraska Sale Barns Set National Records with Sky-High Feeder Cattle Prices

NEBRASKA CITY, Neb. — A 59-year-old Iowa man has been convicted less than a week after fatally striking a 6-year-old boy with his pickup near the Nebraska City farmers market.

Vernon Christiansen of Percival, Iowa, pleaded no contest and was found guilty of motor vehicle homicide, possession of an open alcohol container, improper or bald tires, and a first offense for obstructed driver view. The charges include one misdemeanor and three infractions, carrying a possible sentence of up to one year in jail and/or fines totaling $1,300.

Christiansen’s conviction follows a tragic incident that occurred July 17 near 8th Street and First Corso, just behind the Veterans Memorial Building. Emergency responders were dispatched around an hour after the local farmers market opened and found that a 6-year-old boy had been fatally struck by a pickup truck. According to investigators, the truck, driven by Christiansen, was traveling east through an alley when the collision occurred.

Christiansen stayed at the scene and was later transported to a hospital for evaluation. Officers noted he smelled of alcohol and agreed to a hospital-administered blood draw. A urine test was also performed, and results from both are still pending.

During a search of his vehicle, police discovered an open container of alcohol, unopened beverages, a radar detector obstructing the driver’s view, and a rear tire with worn tread below legal safety limits. Christiansen initially faced an additional citation for third-offense DUI, and prosecutors have indicated that felony charges may be filed pending toxicology results.

NEBRASKA CITY, Neb. — A 59-year-old Iowa man has been convicted less than a week after fatally striking a 6-year-old boy with his pickup near the Nebraska City farmers market.Vernon Christiansen of Percival, Iowa, pleaded no contest and was found guilty of motor vehicle homicide, possession of an open alcohol container, improper or bald tires, and a first offense for obstructed driver view. The charges include one misdemeanor and three infractions, carrying a possible sentence of up to one year in jail and/or fines totaling $1,300.Christiansen’s conviction follows a tragic incident that occurred July 17 near 8th Street and First Corso, just behind the Veterans Memorial Building. Emergency responders were dispatched around an hour after the local farmers market opened and found that a 6-year-old boy had been fatally struck by a pickup truck. According to investigators, the truck, driven by Christiansen, was traveling east through an alley when the collision occurred.Christiansen stayed at the scene and was later transported to a hospital for evaluation. Officers noted he smelled of alcohol and agreed to a hospital-administered blood draw. A urine test was also performed, and results from both are still pending.During a search of his vehicle, police discovered an open container of alcohol, unopened beverages, a radar detector obstructing the driver’s view, and a rear tire with worn tread below legal safety limits. Christiansen initially faced an additional citation for third-offense DUI, and prosecutors have indicated that felony charges may be filed pending toxicology results.

Man Convicted Days After Fatal Collision Involving 6-Year-Old at Nebraska City Farmers Market

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>

WASHINGTON — House Republicans are headed home early for their August break after an uproar over the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files all but halted any possibility of floor action.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said Tuesday he’s sending his members back to their districts until September to avoid “political games” relating to a bipartisan effort pressuring the release of government investigative documents on Epstein. The financier was a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/01/us/jeffrey-epstein-grand-jury" target="_blank">Florida sex offender</a>&nbsp;who died by suicide in 2019 in his New York City jail cell, according to authorities, where he was awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.

Epstein enjoyed a wide circle of wealthy, powerful friends, including President Donald Trump. The Wall Street Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/politics/trump-jeffrey-epstein-birthday-letter-we-have-certain-things-in-common-f918d796?mod=Searchresults_pos1&amp;page=1" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;Friday that it reviewed a 2003 birthday greeting from Trump to Epstein featuring a cryptic message and hand-drawn naked woman, leading Trump to promptly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c23g5xpggzmo" target="_blank">sue</a>&nbsp;the publication.

“We’re for maximum transparency. We’re engaging in that right now. We don’t need political games,” Johnson said at a weekly press conference where the Louisiana Republican was asked about an effort by his own members to compel the release of case material.

GOP Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky has joined California Democrat Rep. Ro Khanna in spearheading an effort to force a vote on releasing what are commonly referred to as the Epstein files. The procedural move, called a discharge petition, could be ready for the floor in September if Massie and Khanna can gather signatures from a majority of members.

“I don’t understand Thomas Massie’s motivation. I really don’t. I don’t know how his mind works,” Johnson continued.

He said the White House needs “space” to produce documents and is “in the process” of releasing materials related to the Epstein case.

“There’s no purpose for Congress to push the administration to do something it’s already doing,” he said.

On a separate track, the GOP-led House Rules Committee, the last stop for legislation before it reaches the floor, recessed Monday evening before Democrats on the panel could force their Republican counterparts to vote on amendments related to release of the Epstein information.

The bills stuck in that committee, largely to do with immigration, permitting and public lands, will no longer go to the floor this week.

Last floor votes are scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. House members will not return until Sept. 2.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheJusticeDept/status/1947670804122001581" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;on social media Tuesday that federal prosecutors are seeking an interview with Epstein’s one-time girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a lengthy prison sentence for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/ghislaine-maxwell-sentenced-20-years-prison-conspiring-jeffrey-epstein-sexually-abuse" target="_blank">conspiring</a>&nbsp;with the financier to sexually abuse girls.

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office Tuesday that the department’s attempt to interview Maxwell “sounds appropriate,” adding that he was uninformed about the matter and downplaying the relevance of the Epstein case.

“I don’t know about it, but I think it’s something that … sounds appropriate,” he said.

Blanche was Trump’s personal criminal defense attorney. Asked if Blanche’s involvement in the interview raised any concerns, Trump said no. Democrats have used Trump’s social relationship with Epstein to imply he may have been aware of Epstein’s illegal activities.

Trump urged reporters to drop the Epstein case and instead focus on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/19/politics/gabbard-threatens-obama-officials-2016-election" target="_blank">recent declaration</a>&nbsp;from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard that former President Barack Obama improperly ordered an investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election that Trump eventually won. Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats-intelligence.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1397" target="_blank">denounced</a>&nbsp;the report.

Trump has spent the last couple weeks dismissing loud concerns from Republicans and his voter base since a July 7 Justice Department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1407001/dl?inline" target="_blank">memo</a>&nbsp;denied the existence of an Epstein “client list” and concluded the department would not publish any of the files.

After receiving intense criticism, Trump ordered the department on July 17 to release grand jury testimony in the case.

The president called his supporters “weaklings” for expressing concern about the Epstein “hoax,” in a July 16 post on his online platform Truth Social. Trump also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-asked-if-his-name-appears-in-epstein-files-trump-claims-comey-obama-and-biden-made-them-up" target="_blank">told</a>&nbsp;reporters last week that the so-called Epstein files were “made up” by former presidents Obama and Joe Biden.

The president’s supporters, including members of his current administration, have fixated for years on unreleased details surrounding the financier’s involvement in sex trafficking, including possible names of clients and the circumstances around Epstein’s death.

According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/press-release/file/1180481/dl" target="_blank">federal charging documents</a>, Epstein sexually abused dozens of teenage girls at his residences in Manhattan and Palm Beach, Florida. The Justice Department has concluded that Epstein likely had more than 1,000&nbsp;<a href="http://victims.to/" target="_blank">victims</a>.

Jacob Fischler contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704330351229.png" alt="Jeffrey Epstein New York Sex Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey Epstein New York Sex Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>WASHINGTON — House Republicans are headed home early for their August break after an uproar over the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files all but halted any possibility of floor action.House Speaker Mike Johnson said Tuesday he’s sending his members back to their districts until September to avoid “political games” relating to a bipartisan effort pressuring the release of government investigative documents on Epstein. The financier was a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/01/us/jeffrey-epstein-grand-jury" target="_blank">Florida sex offender</a>&nbsp;who died by suicide in 2019 in his New York City jail cell, according to authorities, where he was awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.Epstein enjoyed a wide circle of wealthy, powerful friends, including President Donald Trump. The Wall Street Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/politics/trump-jeffrey-epstein-birthday-letter-we-have-certain-things-in-common-f918d796?mod=Searchresults_pos1&amp;page=1" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;Friday that it reviewed a 2003 birthday greeting from Trump to Epstein featuring a cryptic message and hand-drawn naked woman, leading Trump to promptly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c23g5xpggzmo" target="_blank">sue</a>&nbsp;the publication.“We’re for maximum transparency. We’re engaging in that right now. We don’t need political games,” Johnson said at a weekly press conference where the Louisiana Republican was asked about an effort by his own members to compel the release of case material.GOP Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky has joined California Democrat Rep. Ro Khanna in spearheading an effort to force a vote on releasing what are commonly referred to as the Epstein files. The procedural move, called a discharge petition, could be ready for the floor in September if Massie and Khanna can gather signatures from a majority of members.“I don’t understand Thomas Massie’s motivation. I really don’t. I don’t know how his mind works,” Johnson continued.He said the White House needs “space” to produce documents and is “in the process” of releasing materials related to the Epstein case.“There’s no purpose for Congress to push the administration to do something it’s already doing,” he said.On a separate track, the GOP-led House Rules Committee, the last stop for legislation before it reaches the floor, recessed Monday evening before Democrats on the panel could force their Republican counterparts to vote on amendments related to release of the Epstein information.The bills stuck in that committee, largely to do with immigration, permitting and public lands, will no longer go to the floor this week.Last floor votes are scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. House members will not return until Sept. 2.<h2>Interview sought with Ghislaine Maxwell</h2>Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheJusticeDept/status/1947670804122001581" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;on social media Tuesday that federal prosecutors are seeking an interview with Epstein’s one-time girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a lengthy prison sentence for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/ghislaine-maxwell-sentenced-20-years-prison-conspiring-jeffrey-epstein-sexually-abuse" target="_blank">conspiring</a>&nbsp;with the financier to sexually abuse girls.Trump told reporters in the Oval Office Tuesday that the department’s attempt to interview Maxwell “sounds appropriate,” adding that he was uninformed about the matter and downplaying the relevance of the Epstein case.“I don’t know about it, but I think it’s something that … sounds appropriate,” he said.Blanche was Trump’s personal criminal defense attorney. Asked if Blanche’s involvement in the interview raised any concerns, Trump said no. Democrats have used Trump’s social relationship with Epstein to imply he may have been aware of Epstein’s illegal activities.Trump urged reporters to drop the Epstein case and instead focus on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/19/politics/gabbard-threatens-obama-officials-2016-election" target="_blank">recent declaration</a>&nbsp;from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard that former President Barack Obama improperly ordered an investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election that Trump eventually won. Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats-intelligence.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1397" target="_blank">denounced</a>&nbsp;the report.<h2>Trump tries to dismiss Epstein uproar</h2>Trump has spent the last couple weeks dismissing loud concerns from Republicans and his voter base since a July 7 Justice Department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1407001/dl?inline" target="_blank">memo</a>&nbsp;denied the existence of an Epstein “client list” and concluded the department would not publish any of the files.After receiving intense criticism, Trump ordered the department on July 17 to release grand jury testimony in the case.The president called his supporters “weaklings” for expressing concern about the Epstein “hoax,” in a July 16 post on his online platform Truth Social. Trump also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-asked-if-his-name-appears-in-epstein-files-trump-claims-comey-obama-and-biden-made-them-up" target="_blank">told</a>&nbsp;reporters last week that the so-called Epstein files were “made up” by former presidents Obama and Joe Biden.The president’s supporters, including members of his current administration, have fixated for years on unreleased details surrounding the financier’s involvement in sex trafficking, including possible names of clients and the circumstances around Epstein’s death.According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/press-release/file/1180481/dl" target="_blank">federal charging documents</a>, Epstein sexually abused dozens of teenage girls at his residences in Manhattan and Palm Beach, Florida. The Justice Department has concluded that Epstein likely had more than 1,000&nbsp;<a href="http://victims.to/" target="_blank">victims</a>.Jacob Fischler contributed to this report.

US House GOP leaving for August break early to avoid pressure to release Epstein files

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>

WASHINGTON — Republicans’ “big, beautiful” law will add $3.394 trillion to deficits during the next decade and lead 10 million people to lose access to health insurance, according to an analysis released Monday by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

The updated assessment of the sweeping tax and spending cuts law came weeks after nearly every GOP lawmaker voted to approve the legislation ahead of a self-imposed Fourth of July deadline.&nbsp;The law made permanent the 2017 tax cuts from President Donald Trump’s first term and provided billions to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/how-megabill-allows-trump-expand-mass-deportations-curb-immigrant-benefits" target="_blank">carry out his plans&nbsp;</a>of mass deportations, an immigration crackdown and increased defense spending.

Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, wrote in a statement that it is “still hard to believe that policymakers just added $4 trillion to” deficits after Republican lawmakers “have spent months or years appropriately fuming about our unsustainable fiscal situation.”

“This is a dangerous game we are playing,” MacGuineas wrote. “It has been going on for years, and it was brought to new levels with this bill. And it is time to stop.”&nbsp;

CBO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/taxonomy/term/1756/latest" target="_blank">released numerous reports</a>&nbsp;throughout the months-long process showing how various parts of the bill would affect federal spending and health care access, but the scorekeeper needed additional time to evaluate changes Republicans made during the last few days of debate.

The latest figures are similar to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2025-07/61537-hr1-Senate-passed-additional-info7-1-25.pdf" target="_blank">a preliminary report</a>&nbsp;CBO released earlier this month projecting the final version of the package, which underwent considerable changes in the Senate, would likely lead to a $3.4 trillion increase in deficits between 2025 and 2034.

That total was significantly higher than the $2.4 trillion increase in deficits&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-backed-giant-tax-and-spending-bill-bloats-deficit-24t-nonpartisan-cbo-says" target="_blank">CBO expected</a>&nbsp;the original House version of the bill would have had during the next decade.

Health spending to fall by more than $1 trillion

Republicans’ numerous changes to health programs, predominantly Medicaid, will reduce federal spending during the next decade by $1.058 trillion.

The law made more than a dozen changes to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/gop-tax-cut-plans-may-depend-savings-medicaid-what-it-and-who-relies-it" target="_blank">the state-federal health program</a>&nbsp;for lower income individuals and certain people with disabilities, though some of those have larger budget impacts than others.

Language barring Medicaid spending from going to Planned Parenthood for one year would actually increase federal deficits during the 10-year window by $53 million.

The CBO score shows that policy change would decrease federal spending by $44 million this fiscal year and another $31 million during the next fiscal year, before increasing deficits by $91 million during fiscal year 2027 and continuing.

That section of the law is on hold for the moment after a federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-quickly-rules-favor-planned-parenthood-suit-over-medicaid-funding" target="_blank">issued a temporary restraining order</a>&nbsp;earlier this month that required the Trump administration to continue paying Planned Parenthood for routine health care coverage for Medicaid enrollees.

Federal law for decades has barred the federal government from spending taxpayer dollars for abortion services with limited exceptions, so the one-year prohibition on Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood would have blocked patients enrolled in the program from going to their clinics for routine health appointments, like annual physicals and cancer screenings.

The CBO report didn’t include a state-by-state breakdown of the effects of the health care changes in the law, but the agency is expected to release more detailed analysis of the health impacts in the coming weeks.

Apart from Medicaid, two large projected deficit reductions in the law come in the agriculture title’s sections on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

A provision requiring states to pay for some portion of SNAP benefits starting in fiscal 2028 would save the federal government between $5.7 billion and $6 billion per year, totalling just less than $41 billion for the first seven years it will be in effect.

And new work requirements for SNAP would result in $68.6 billion less in federal spending over the 10 years starting in fiscal 2026, the CBO projected.

Republicans’ streamlining of the federal student loan program is projected to reduce federal spending in the next decade by $270.5 billion.

As part of a sweeping overhaul of higher education, the law limits repayment options for borrowers with any loans made on or after July 1, 2026, to either a standard repayment plan or an income-based repayment plan.

The extension of Trump’s 2017 tax law, plus new tax breaks, will cost $4.472 trillion over the next decade, according to the latest CBO score.

The United States collects the majority of its revenue from individual taxpayers, and the continuation of lowered income tax brackets, plus an increased standard deduction, will comprise the bulk of lost revenue over 10 years, adding up to $3.497 trillion.

Trump also campaigned on several other tax cut promises, including no tax on tips and overtime, as well as no tax on car loan interest. The temporary provisions come with stipulations and will end in 2029. Together they will cost $151.868 billion.

The child tax credit increases under the new law to $2,200, up from $2,000, though lawmakers did not increase the amount lower income families can receive as a tax refund. The CBO estimates the bumped-up tax credit will cost $626.345 billion over the next decade.

Lawmakers offset some costs of the bill by repealing clean energy tax credits, including ending tax credits for personal and commercial electric vehicles, nixing energy efficiency improvement credits for homeowners, and terminating clean electricity production credits. In all, Republicans saved $487.909 billion from axing the measures meant to address the effects of climate change.

Jacob Fischler, Shauneen Miranda and Ashley Murray contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751666035602.png" alt="President Trump signed the bill into law on July 4-image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>President Trump signed the bill into law on July 4-image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>WASHINGTON — Republicans’ “big, beautiful” law will add $3.394 trillion to deficits during the next decade and lead 10 million people to lose access to health insurance, according to an analysis released Monday by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.The updated assessment of the sweeping tax and spending cuts law came weeks after nearly every GOP lawmaker voted to approve the legislation ahead of a self-imposed Fourth of July deadline.&nbsp;The law made permanent the 2017 tax cuts from President Donald Trump’s first term and provided billions to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/how-megabill-allows-trump-expand-mass-deportations-curb-immigrant-benefits" target="_blank">carry out his plans&nbsp;</a>of mass deportations, an immigration crackdown and increased defense spending.Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, wrote in a statement that it is “still hard to believe that policymakers just added $4 trillion to” deficits after Republican lawmakers “have spent months or years appropriately fuming about our unsustainable fiscal situation.”“This is a dangerous game we are playing,” MacGuineas wrote. “It has been going on for years, and it was brought to new levels with this bill. And it is time to stop.”&nbsp;CBO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/taxonomy/term/1756/latest" target="_blank">released numerous reports</a>&nbsp;throughout the months-long process showing how various parts of the bill would affect federal spending and health care access, but the scorekeeper needed additional time to evaluate changes Republicans made during the last few days of debate.The latest figures are similar to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2025-07/61537-hr1-Senate-passed-additional-info7-1-25.pdf" target="_blank">a preliminary report</a>&nbsp;CBO released earlier this month projecting the final version of the package, which underwent considerable changes in the Senate, would likely lead to a $3.4 trillion increase in deficits between 2025 and 2034.That total was significantly higher than the $2.4 trillion increase in deficits&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-backed-giant-tax-and-spending-bill-bloats-deficit-24t-nonpartisan-cbo-says" target="_blank">CBO expected</a>&nbsp;the original House version of the bill would have had during the next decade.<h2>Health spending to fall by more than $1 trillion</h2>Republicans’ numerous changes to health programs, predominantly Medicaid, will reduce federal spending during the next decade by $1.058 trillion.The law made more than a dozen changes to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/gop-tax-cut-plans-may-depend-savings-medicaid-what-it-and-who-relies-it" target="_blank">the state-federal health program</a>&nbsp;for lower income individuals and certain people with disabilities, though some of those have larger budget impacts than others.Language barring Medicaid spending from going to Planned Parenthood for one year would actually increase federal deficits during the 10-year window by $53 million.The CBO score shows that policy change would decrease federal spending by $44 million this fiscal year and another $31 million during the next fiscal year, before increasing deficits by $91 million during fiscal year 2027 and continuing.That section of the law is on hold for the moment after a federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-quickly-rules-favor-planned-parenthood-suit-over-medicaid-funding" target="_blank">issued a temporary restraining order</a>&nbsp;earlier this month that required the Trump administration to continue paying Planned Parenthood for routine health care coverage for Medicaid enrollees.Federal law for decades has barred the federal government from spending taxpayer dollars for abortion services with limited exceptions, so the one-year prohibition on Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood would have blocked patients enrolled in the program from going to their clinics for routine health appointments, like annual physicals and cancer screenings.The CBO report didn’t include a state-by-state breakdown of the effects of the health care changes in the law, but the agency is expected to release more detailed analysis of the health impacts in the coming weeks.<h2>Nutrition assistance cuts</h2>Apart from Medicaid, two large projected deficit reductions in the law come in the agriculture title’s sections on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.A provision requiring states to pay for some portion of SNAP benefits starting in fiscal 2028 would save the federal government between $5.7 billion and $6 billion per year, totalling just less than $41 billion for the first seven years it will be in effect.And new work requirements for SNAP would result in $68.6 billion less in federal spending over the 10 years starting in fiscal 2026, the CBO projected.<h2>Federal student loan program</h2>Republicans’ streamlining of the federal student loan program is projected to reduce federal spending in the next decade by $270.5 billion.As part of a sweeping overhaul of higher education, the law limits repayment options for borrowers with any loans made on or after July 1, 2026, to either a standard repayment plan or an income-based repayment plan.<h2>Extension and expansion of tax cuts</h2>The extension of Trump’s 2017 tax law, plus new tax breaks, will cost $4.472 trillion over the next decade, according to the latest CBO score.The United States collects the majority of its revenue from individual taxpayers, and the continuation of lowered income tax brackets, plus an increased standard deduction, will comprise the bulk of lost revenue over 10 years, adding up to $3.497 trillion.Trump also campaigned on several other tax cut promises, including no tax on tips and overtime, as well as no tax on car loan interest. The temporary provisions come with stipulations and will end in 2029. Together they will cost $151.868 billion.The child tax credit increases under the new law to $2,200, up from $2,000, though lawmakers did not increase the amount lower income families can receive as a tax refund. The CBO estimates the bumped-up tax credit will cost $626.345 billion over the next decade.Lawmakers offset some costs of the bill by repealing clean energy tax credits, including ending tax credits for personal and commercial electric vehicles, nixing energy efficiency improvement credits for homeowners, and terminating clean electricity production credits. In all, Republicans saved $487.909 billion from axing the measures meant to address the effects of climate change.Jacob Fischler, Shauneen Miranda and Ashley Murray contributed to this report.

Trump tax law runs up deficit by $3.4T, throws 10 million off health insurance, CBO says

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 21, 2025, Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard released over 230,000 pages of documents related to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK), in accordance with President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order 14176.

<a href="https://www.archives.gov/research/mlk">Click here to see the files</a>

This unprecedented release follows through on President Trump’s commitment to fully release previously-classified records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy (JFK), Senator Robert F. Kennedy (RFK), and MLK, and was carried out in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and the National Archives.

Unlike the majority of the JFK assassination files — which were identified and released in accordance with federal law — the MLK files in today’s release had never been digitized and sat collecting dust in facilities across the federal government for decades, until today.

The documents include details about the FBI’s investigation into the assassination of MLK — including the discussion of potential leads, internal FBI memos detailing the progress of the case, and documents related to James Earl Ray’s former cellmate, who stated he discussed with Ray an alleged assassination plot. Additionally, as James Earl Ray fled the country following the assassination, the release includes unique foreign evidence from a Canadian police department. Never-before-seen CIA records outline overseas intelligence on the international hunt for the prime suspect in the assassination.

"I am grateful to President Trump and DNI Gabbard for delivering on their pledge of transparency in the release of these documents on the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr,"&nbsp;said Dr. Alveda King. "My uncle lived boldly in pursuit of truth and justice, and his enduring legacy of faith continues to inspire Americans to this day. While we continue to mourn his death, the declassification and release of these documents are a historic step towards the truth that the American people deserve."

“The American people have waited nearly sixty years to see the full scope of the federal government’s investigation into Dr. King’s assassination,”&nbsp;said DNI Gabbard. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are ensuring that no stone is left unturned in our mission to deliver complete transparency on this pivotal and tragic event in our nation’s history. I extend my deepest appreciation to the King family for their support.”

“The American people deserve answers decades after the horrific assassination of one of our nation’s great leaders,"&nbsp;said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. "The Department of Justice is proud to partner with Director Gabbard and the ODNI at President Trump’s direction for this latest disclosure.”

“In partnership with ODNI and FBI, today’s release represents a significant milestone in CIA’s efforts to deliver maximum transparency to the American people,”&nbsp;said CIA Director John Ratcliffe. “CIA is proud to contribute to President Trump’s historic initiative to declassify and release intelligence information that serves the public’s interest.”

“Today’s record release marks a historic step in the Trump Administration’s ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability,"&nbsp;said Secretary of State and Acting U.S. Archivist Marco Rubio. "Preserving, protecting, and releasing the records of the U.S. government is at the core of NARA’s mission. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and a coordinated interagency process, NARA was able to review and release the records at an unprecedented speed.”

While some of the documents released were made public through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, today’s release is the first time these records are published online in one collection with minimal redactions for privacy reasons — including redactions for Social Security Numbers and grand jury information. As agencies continue to search government facilities for additional files, the new documents will be uploaded alongside the previously released files at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.archives.gov/mlk" target="_blank">archives.gov/mlk</a>&nbsp;to ensure all MLK assassination documents can be found in a centralized location. Two-weeks in advance of today’s release, members of the King family were provided an opportunity to review the files.

The government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-assassination-documents-release-trump-c56ed5075b38af809f36a6388797d4ca">unsealed the JFK records</a>&nbsp;in March and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-assassination-files-released-74af7098faf255d92a5bff32899a7ce7">disclosed some RFK files</a>&nbsp;in April.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753130471620.png" alt="Martin Luther King, Jr. (image National Archives)" />
 <figcaption>Martin Luther King, Jr. (image National Archives)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 21, 2025, Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard released over 230,000 pages of documents related to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK), in accordance with President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order 14176.<a href="https://www.archives.gov/research/mlk">Click here to see the files</a>This unprecedented release follows through on President Trump’s commitment to fully release previously-classified records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy (JFK), Senator Robert F. Kennedy (RFK), and MLK, and was carried out in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and the National Archives.Unlike the majority of the JFK assassination files — which were identified and released in accordance with federal law — the MLK files in today’s release had never been digitized and sat collecting dust in facilities across the federal government for decades, until today.The documents include details about the FBI’s investigation into the assassination of MLK — including the discussion of potential leads, internal FBI memos detailing the progress of the case, and documents related to James Earl Ray’s former cellmate, who stated he discussed with Ray an alleged assassination plot. Additionally, as James Earl Ray fled the country following the assassination, the release includes unique foreign evidence from a Canadian police department. Never-before-seen CIA records outline overseas intelligence on the international hunt for the prime suspect in the assassination."I am grateful to President Trump and DNI Gabbard for delivering on their pledge of transparency in the release of these documents on the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr,"&nbsp;said Dr. Alveda King. "My uncle lived boldly in pursuit of truth and justice, and his enduring legacy of faith continues to inspire Americans to this day. While we continue to mourn his death, the declassification and release of these documents are a historic step towards the truth that the American people deserve."“The American people have waited nearly sixty years to see the full scope of the federal government’s investigation into Dr. King’s assassination,”&nbsp;said DNI Gabbard. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are ensuring that no stone is left unturned in our mission to deliver complete transparency on this pivotal and tragic event in our nation’s history. I extend my deepest appreciation to the King family for their support.”“The American people deserve answers decades after the horrific assassination of one of our nation’s great leaders,"&nbsp;said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. "The Department of Justice is proud to partner with Director Gabbard and the ODNI at President Trump’s direction for this latest disclosure.”“In partnership with ODNI and FBI, today’s release represents a significant milestone in CIA’s efforts to deliver maximum transparency to the American people,”&nbsp;said CIA Director John Ratcliffe. “CIA is proud to contribute to President Trump’s historic initiative to declassify and release intelligence information that serves the public’s interest.”“Today’s record release marks a historic step in the Trump Administration’s ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability,"&nbsp;said Secretary of State and Acting U.S. Archivist Marco Rubio. "Preserving, protecting, and releasing the records of the U.S. government is at the core of NARA’s mission. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and a coordinated interagency process, NARA was able to review and release the records at an unprecedented speed.”While some of the documents released were made public through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, today’s release is the first time these records are published online in one collection with minimal redactions for privacy reasons — including redactions for Social Security Numbers and grand jury information. As agencies continue to search government facilities for additional files, the new documents will be uploaded alongside the previously released files at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.archives.gov/mlk" target="_blank">archives.gov/mlk</a>&nbsp;to ensure all MLK assassination documents can be found in a centralized location. Two-weeks in advance of today’s release, members of the King family were provided an opportunity to review the files.The government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-assassination-documents-release-trump-c56ed5075b38af809f36a6388797d4ca">unsealed the JFK records</a>&nbsp;in March and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-assassination-files-released-74af7098faf255d92a5bff32899a7ce7">disclosed some RFK files</a>&nbsp;in April.

Read the newly released, controversial FBI records on MLK Jr.

The sweeping requests raise fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jonathan-shorman/">Jonathan Shorman</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>

The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking the voter registration lists of several states — representing data on millions of Americans — and other election information ahead of the 2026 midterms, raising fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information.

The DOJ is also demanding Colorado turn over all records related to the 2024 election, a massive trove of documents that could include ballots and even voting equipment. The Colorado inquiry, the most sweeping publicly known request, underscores the extent of the administration’s attention on state election activities.

At least nine states have received requests for information over the past three months, according to letters from the DOJ obtained by Stateline. Some states also received emails from a DOJ official last week asking for meetings to discuss information-sharing agreements.

The department’s focus on elections comes after President Donald Trump directed U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in March to seek information about suspected election crimes from state election officials and empowered her to potentially withhold grants and other funds from uncooperative states.

For years, Trump has advanced false claims about elections, including the idea that the 2020 election that he lost was stolen. Now back in power, his administration is taking a new level of interest in how states — and even local authorities — administer elections.

Last week, a political operative approached several Republican county clerks in Colorado to enlist them in election integrity efforts in light of Trump’s sweeping March executive order overhauling elections administration. One clerk told Stateline the operative claimed to represent the White House.

“Whatever the Trump administration tries to pull is very unlikely to be successful,” Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, a Democrat, said in an interview, calling Colorado elections very secure. “With that said, do I think they are trying to undermine our elections at large in this country? Absolutely.”

DOJ has sent letters to Alaska, Arizona, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in addition to the request to Colorado.

The letters have typically asked election officials to describe how they register voters and work to identify duplicate registrations and individuals not eligible to vote, such as people with felony convictions and those who have died. The Washington Post earlier Wednesday reported on the letters; Votebeat and NPR previously reported on some of the letters as well.

Most letters also ask about each state’s process for flagging noncitizen applicants. Noncitizen voting is against federal law and incredibly rare, but Trump and his allies have promoted false claims about its prevalence. The Trump administration is also conducting a general crackdown on illegal immigration.

The letters call on election officials to turn over voter registration lists, which in some instances contain data on millions of residents in their states. This request has raised the most concerns, with some experts saying it’s unclear exactly why the DOJ wants the information.

“They don’t make much sense as law enforcement investigations. That makes me think that there’s some other purpose,” said Justin Levitt, who served as senior policy adviser for democracy and voting rights in the Biden White House and is now a law professor at Loyola Marymount University.

While many states make their voter registration lists available to the public, Levitt emphasized the data could still be largely off-limits to the federal government. Federal privacy law sometimes restricts how the government can use data that’s publicly obtainable. The DOJ may need voter information in some individual circumstances, but “that’s not blanket permission to go vacuuming up data.”

The DOJ didn’t respond to questions for this story.

Federal laws restrict the federal government’s ability to centralize information on Americans, said David Becker, executive director of the nonpartisan Center for Election Innovation &amp; Research. Even if states provide voter registration information to the public, they often redact sensitive information.

In Orange County, California, the DOJ sued local election officials in June, seeking unredacted voter registration information, such as Social Security numbers and driver’s licenses, as part of an investigation into noncitizen voting.

More than 350 election officials from some 33 states participated in a conference call about federal actions on Monday hosted by Becker, who was previously an attorney in the DOJ Voting Rights Section during the administrations of Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. He said the interest in the call shows the level of uncertainty and anxiety over the current “federal imposition” on election administrators.

“The DOJ seems dead set on acquiring personal information on voters, including driver’s license numbers, Social Security numbers and dates of birth — records that are highly protected under federal law and under state law and which state election officials are sworn to protect,” Becker said.

In Colorado, the amount of data the DOJ wants is enormous. On May 12, Harmeet Dhillon, an assistant U.S. attorney general in the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, sent a letter to Griswold, the secretary of state, asking for access to “all records” related to the 2024 election.

Federal law requires state election officials to preserve records related to elections for 22 months. Typically, the rule ensures records are preserved in case any lawsuits are filed over an election. In the letter, Dhillon referred to a complaint against Griswold’s office alleging noncompliance with records retention laws, but provided no details.

Experts on election administration who spoke to Stateline expressed shock at the scope of the demand to Colorado. The request encompasses a vast trove of material, potentially including ballots.

“The amount of records being requested from a place like Colorado … it’s really, really significant in terms of the volume of materials that are required to be retained,” said Neal Ubriani, a former voting rights litigator at the DOJ during the Obama and first Trump administrations and the current policy and research director at the nonpartisan Institute for Responsive Government.

Colorado elections have previously drawn Trump’s attention. Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, a staunch Trump supporter, is serving a nine-year prison sentence after a conviction in state court for allowing unauthorized access to voting equipment in 2021.

On May 5 of this year — a week before the Dhillon letter to Griswold — Trump posted on social media that Peters should be released, calling her a “political prisoner.” Griswold noted the timing.

“I think the bigger picture is Donald Trump is continuing to try and rewrite the 2020 election and destabilize the ’26 and ’28 elections,” Griswold told Stateline.

The Colorado Secretary of State’s Office responded to the DOJ by providing copies of the state’s master voter file and voter history file. All of the information provided is also available to the public.

Some Colorado Republican county clerks in recent days have also been approached by Jeff Small, a political operative who worked at the U.S. Department of the Interior during the first Trump administration. Stateline and Colorado Newsline spoke to three GOP clerks who said they had spoken to Small last week.

Steve Schleiker, clerk of El Paso County, which includes Colorado Springs and is the most populous county in the state, said that on July 9 he received a text and call from Small, who introduced himself in a voicemail as someone who “works for the White House.”

Schleiker said that when he called back, Small said he wanted to build relationships with clerks because the Trump administration was unhappy with progress on the president’s elections executive order. He later connected Schleiker with a Homeland Security official who wanted to test the security of El Paso County’s election systems, said Schleiker, who added that he opposed the request.

Weld County Clerk Carly Koppes said she also heard from Small, but that Small told her he wasn’t under contract or being paid for the calls. Small indicated he was making the calls on behalf of former colleagues, Koppes said.

Small, a former Capitol Hill chief of staff who now works for a Colorado-based government affairs firm, didn’t return a call to his office on Wednesday. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that the agency works with local partners to ensure elections remain safe.

“We don’t disclose every single conversation we have with them,” an unidentified DHS spokesperson wrote in an email.

Matt Crane, executive director of the Colorado County Clerks Association, said he was aware of 10 clerks approached by Small. He noted that every clerk approached by Small hails from a county that uses Denver-based Dominion Voting Systems.

While Dominion is widely used in Colorado, it’s also been the subject of election conspiracy theories. A former candidate for county sheriff in southwest Colorado was arrested in June, accused of firebombing a clerk’s office. Colorado Public Radio reported the suspect, according to law enforcement, had spoken publicly about trying to get rid of the county’s Dominion machines.

“I think the really important thing to say here is that it was Republican clerks who stood up to a Republican administration and said, ‘No, we’re going to follow the law,’” Crane said.

The intent of the efforts by Small and the federal government “has been muddied up it seems,” Montrose County Clerk Tressa Guynes said. Based on her conversations with other clerks, she said, it appeared Small represented one thing to other clerks and then “represented maybe a watered-down version by the time it got to me.”

Guynes said Small wanted to discuss Trump’s elections executive order. She said Small asked whether she would be willing to support a federal task force’s efforts in an advisory role.

“I said absolutely I will advise,” Guynes said. “I said I’m frankly glad that they’re finally reaching out to the boots on the ground, the people who actually conduct the elections, instead of listening to those who have never conducted a Colorado election.”

As Colorado grapples with the most far-reaching request, other states are choosing how to respond. In Wisconsin, the state election commission responded to a DOJ request for the voter registration list with instructions on how to request public voter data.

Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, a Democrat, responded on June 2 — after DOJ in a May 20 letter told the state to ensure voter registration applicants&nbsp;provided a driver’s license number, if they have one, instead of a partial Social Security number. The DOJ also wanted Arizona to check voters against a state database to look for noncitizens.

Fontes replied that Arizona complies with federal law and conducts checks using a state motor vehicle division database.

“We are focused on dealing with DOJ in a good faith manner while ensuring we are following the letter of federal and state laws,” Fontes spokesperson JP Martin wrote in an email to Stateline.

More recently, Arizona received a letter July 10 from DOJ about implementation of Trump’s elections executive order. Rhode Island Democratic Secretary of State Gregg Amore also received an email about the order the same day, according to a copy provided to the Rhode Island Current.

In the email, Scott Laragy, principal deputy director in the Executive Office for United States Attorneys, asks for a call to discuss a possible information-sharing agreement to provide DOJ with information on individuals who have registered to vote or have voted despite being ineligible, or those who have committed other forms of election fraud.

The email echoes the language in Trump’s elections executive order, which calls for DOJ to reach information-sharing agreements with states. While much of the order, which focused on proof of citizenship in elections, has been struck down in federal court, provisions related to information sharing remain.

The executive order directs Bondi, the U.S. attorney general, to prioritize enforcement of federal “election integrity laws” in uncooperative states. It also requires her to review grants and other DOJ funds that could be withheld from states that resist.

Some states have already struck deals with the Trump administration. Indiana Republican Secretary of State Diego Morales announced an agreement last week with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services allowing the state to access a database to verify the citizenship of registered voters. Alabama Republican Secretary of State Wes Allen has signed a similar agreement.

“With your cooperation, we plan to use this information to enforce Federal election laws and protect the integrity of Federal elections,” Laragy wrote to Rhode Island.

Janine Weisman of the Rhode Island Current and Lindsey Toomer of Colorado Newsline contributed to this report. Stateline reporter Jonathan Shorman can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jshorman@stateline.org">jshorman@stateline.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709323737405.png" alt="Fire photo (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Fire photo (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The sweeping requests raise fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jonathan-shorman/">Jonathan Shorman</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking the voter registration lists of several states — representing data on millions of Americans — and other election information ahead of the 2026 midterms, raising fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information.The DOJ is also demanding Colorado turn over all records related to the 2024 election, a massive trove of documents that could include ballots and even voting equipment. The Colorado inquiry, the most sweeping publicly known request, underscores the extent of the administration’s attention on state election activities.At least nine states have received requests for information over the past three months, according to letters from the DOJ obtained by Stateline. Some states also received emails from a DOJ official last week asking for meetings to discuss information-sharing agreements.The department’s focus on elections comes after President Donald Trump directed U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in March to seek information about suspected election crimes from state election officials and empowered her to potentially withhold grants and other funds from uncooperative states.For years, Trump has advanced false claims about elections, including the idea that the 2020 election that he lost was stolen. Now back in power, his administration is taking a new level of interest in how states — and even local authorities — administer elections.Last week, a political operative approached several Republican county clerks in Colorado to enlist them in election integrity efforts in light of Trump’s sweeping March executive order overhauling elections administration. One clerk told Stateline the operative claimed to represent the White House.“Whatever the Trump administration tries to pull is very unlikely to be successful,” Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, a Democrat, said in an interview, calling Colorado elections very secure. “With that said, do I think they are trying to undermine our elections at large in this country? Absolutely.”DOJ has sent letters to Alaska, Arizona, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in addition to the request to Colorado.The letters have typically asked election officials to describe how they register voters and work to identify duplicate registrations and individuals not eligible to vote, such as people with felony convictions and those who have died. The Washington Post earlier Wednesday reported on the letters; Votebeat and NPR previously reported on some of the letters as well.Most letters also ask about each state’s process for flagging noncitizen applicants. Noncitizen voting is against federal law and incredibly rare, but Trump and his allies have promoted false claims about its prevalence. The Trump administration is also conducting a general crackdown on illegal immigration.The letters call on election officials to turn over voter registration lists, which in some instances contain data on millions of residents in their states. This request has raised the most concerns, with some experts saying it’s unclear exactly why the DOJ wants the information.“They don’t make much sense as law enforcement investigations. That makes me think that there’s some other purpose,” said Justin Levitt, who served as senior policy adviser for democracy and voting rights in the Biden White House and is now a law professor at Loyola Marymount University.While many states make their voter registration lists available to the public, Levitt emphasized the data could still be largely off-limits to the federal government. Federal privacy law sometimes restricts how the government can use data that’s publicly obtainable. The DOJ may need voter information in some individual circumstances, but “that’s not blanket permission to go vacuuming up data.”The DOJ didn’t respond to questions for this story.Federal laws restrict the federal government’s ability to centralize information on Americans, said David Becker, executive director of the nonpartisan Center for Election Innovation &amp; Research. Even if states provide voter registration information to the public, they often redact sensitive information.In Orange County, California, the DOJ sued local election officials in June, seeking unredacted voter registration information, such as Social Security numbers and driver’s licenses, as part of an investigation into noncitizen voting.More than 350 election officials from some 33 states participated in a conference call about federal actions on Monday hosted by Becker, who was previously an attorney in the DOJ Voting Rights Section during the administrations of Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. He said the interest in the call shows the level of uncertainty and anxiety over the current “federal imposition” on election administrators.“The DOJ seems dead set on acquiring personal information on voters, including driver’s license numbers, Social Security numbers and dates of birth — records that are highly protected under federal law and under state law and which state election officials are sworn to protect,” Becker said.<h2>Sweeping Colorado requests</h2>In Colorado, the amount of data the DOJ wants is enormous. On May 12, Harmeet Dhillon, an assistant U.S. attorney general in the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, sent a letter to Griswold, the secretary of state, asking for access to “all records” related to the 2024 election.Federal law requires state election officials to preserve records related to elections for 22 months. Typically, the rule ensures records are preserved in case any lawsuits are filed over an election. In the letter, Dhillon referred to a complaint against Griswold’s office alleging noncompliance with records retention laws, but provided no details.Experts on election administration who spoke to Stateline expressed shock at the scope of the demand to Colorado. The request encompasses a vast trove of material, potentially including ballots.“The amount of records being requested from a place like Colorado … it’s really, really significant in terms of the volume of materials that are required to be retained,” said Neal Ubriani, a former voting rights litigator at the DOJ during the Obama and first Trump administrations and the current policy and research director at the nonpartisan Institute for Responsive Government.Colorado elections have previously drawn Trump’s attention. Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, a staunch Trump supporter, is serving a nine-year prison sentence after a conviction in state court for allowing unauthorized access to voting equipment in 2021.On May 5 of this year — a week before the Dhillon letter to Griswold — Trump posted on social media that Peters should be released, calling her a “political prisoner.” Griswold noted the timing.“I think the bigger picture is Donald Trump is continuing to try and rewrite the 2020 election and destabilize the ’26 and ’28 elections,” Griswold told Stateline.The Colorado Secretary of State’s Office responded to the DOJ by providing copies of the state’s master voter file and voter history file. All of the information provided is also available to the public.Some Colorado Republican county clerks in recent days have also been approached by Jeff Small, a political operative who worked at the U.S. Department of the Interior during the first Trump administration. Stateline and Colorado Newsline spoke to three GOP clerks who said they had spoken to Small last week.Steve Schleiker, clerk of El Paso County, which includes Colorado Springs and is the most populous county in the state, said that on July 9 he received a text and call from Small, who introduced himself in a voicemail as someone who “works for the White House.”Schleiker said that when he called back, Small said he wanted to build relationships with clerks because the Trump administration was unhappy with progress on the president’s elections executive order. He later connected Schleiker with a Homeland Security official who wanted to test the security of El Paso County’s election systems, said Schleiker, who added that he opposed the request.Weld County Clerk Carly Koppes said she also heard from Small, but that Small told her he wasn’t under contract or being paid for the calls. Small indicated he was making the calls on behalf of former colleagues, Koppes said.Small, a former Capitol Hill chief of staff who now works for a Colorado-based government affairs firm, didn’t return a call to his office on Wednesday. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that the agency works with local partners to ensure elections remain safe.“We don’t disclose every single conversation we have with them,” an unidentified DHS spokesperson wrote in an email.Matt Crane, executive director of the Colorado County Clerks Association, said he was aware of 10 clerks approached by Small. He noted that every clerk approached by Small hails from a county that uses Denver-based Dominion Voting Systems.While Dominion is widely used in Colorado, it’s also been the subject of election conspiracy theories. A former candidate for county sheriff in southwest Colorado was arrested in June, accused of firebombing a clerk’s office. Colorado Public Radio reported the suspect, according to law enforcement, had spoken publicly about trying to get rid of the county’s Dominion machines.“I think the really important thing to say here is that it was Republican clerks who stood up to a Republican administration and said, ‘No, we’re going to follow the law,’” Crane said.The intent of the efforts by Small and the federal government “has been muddied up it seems,” Montrose County Clerk Tressa Guynes said. Based on her conversations with other clerks, she said, it appeared Small represented one thing to other clerks and then “represented maybe a watered-down version by the time it got to me.”Guynes said Small wanted to discuss Trump’s elections executive order. She said Small asked whether she would be willing to support a federal task force’s efforts in an advisory role.“I said absolutely I will advise,” Guynes said. “I said I’m frankly glad that they’re finally reaching out to the boots on the ground, the people who actually conduct the elections, instead of listening to those who have never conducted a Colorado election.”<h2>Letters to other states</h2>As Colorado grapples with the most far-reaching request, other states are choosing how to respond. In Wisconsin, the state election commission responded to a DOJ request for the voter registration list with instructions on how to request public voter data.Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, a Democrat, responded on June 2 — after DOJ in a May 20 letter told the state to ensure voter registration applicants&nbsp;provided a driver’s license number, if they have one, instead of a partial Social Security number. The DOJ also wanted Arizona to check voters against a state database to look for noncitizens.Fontes replied that Arizona complies with federal law and conducts checks using a state motor vehicle division database.“We are focused on dealing with DOJ in a good faith manner while ensuring we are following the letter of federal and state laws,” Fontes spokesperson JP Martin wrote in an email to Stateline.More recently, Arizona received a letter July 10 from DOJ about implementation of Trump’s elections executive order. Rhode Island Democratic Secretary of State Gregg Amore also received an email about the order the same day, according to a copy provided to the Rhode Island Current.In the email, Scott Laragy, principal deputy director in the Executive Office for United States Attorneys, asks for a call to discuss a possible information-sharing agreement to provide DOJ with information on individuals who have registered to vote or have voted despite being ineligible, or those who have committed other forms of election fraud.The email echoes the language in Trump’s elections executive order, which calls for DOJ to reach information-sharing agreements with states. While much of the order, which focused on proof of citizenship in elections, has been struck down in federal court, provisions related to information sharing remain.The executive order directs Bondi, the U.S. attorney general, to prioritize enforcement of federal “election integrity laws” in uncooperative states. It also requires her to review grants and other DOJ funds that could be withheld from states that resist.Some states have already struck deals with the Trump administration. Indiana Republican Secretary of State Diego Morales announced an agreement last week with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services allowing the state to access a database to verify the citizenship of registered voters. Alabama Republican Secretary of State Wes Allen has signed a similar agreement.“With your cooperation, we plan to use this information to enforce Federal election laws and protect the integrity of Federal elections,” Laragy wrote to Rhode Island.Janine Weisman of the Rhode Island Current and Lindsey Toomer of Colorado Newsline contributed to this report. Stateline reporter Jonathan Shorman can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jshorman@stateline.org">jshorman@stateline.org</a>.

Trump’s DOJ wants states to turn over voter lists, election info

Washington, D.C. --&nbsp;The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Bestway (Hong Kong) International Ltd. (China) and Bestway (USA) Inc. (Chandler, Arizona) (Bestway), Intex Recreation Corp. (Long Beach, California) and Polygroup North America Inc. &nbsp;(El Paso, Texas) are announcing the recall of about 5 million 48-inch and taller above-ground pools that use compression straps. These straps wrap around the pool on the outside of the supporting poles, and may create a foothold, allowing a child to access the pool and drown.

<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Bestway-Intex-and-Polygroup-Recall-Certain-Above-Ground-Pools-48-Inches-and-Taller-Due-to-Drowning-Hazard-Nine-Deaths-Reported-Five-Million-Pools-Sold-Since-2002?utm_campaign=&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=20250721">Click here for additional information.</a>

Children can still gain access to the pools using these footholds even if the ladder is removed.&nbsp;

CPSC believes that nine children between the ages of 22 months and 3 years old have drowned&nbsp;

after gaining access to the pools via the footholds. The incidents occurred in California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin and Missouri between 2007 and 2022.

CPSC is also aware of three other incidents in 2011 and 2012 where children who gained access to the recalled pools were reported to have previously used the compression strap to gain entry to the pool.

Consumers should immediately contact Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup to receive a free repair kit consisting of a rope that attaches to each of the vertical support poles at the ground level and wraps around the pool. The rope will maintain the structural integrity of the pool (a function previously served by the compression strap). Consumers should first secure the repair and then cut and remove the compression strap from the pool.&nbsp;

The pool brand names and model numbers are printed on the pool liner on the outside of the pool. Pool models of 48 inches and taller that are included in this recall are listed below:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753114668088.png" alt="-Example of child using the compression strap to stand on above-ground pool, illustrating the hazard involved.-photo Consumer Product Safety Commission" />
 <figcaption>-Example of child using the compression strap to stand on above-ground pool, illustrating the hazard involved.-photo Consumer Product Safety Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>Washington, D.C. --&nbsp;The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Bestway (Hong Kong) International Ltd. (China) and Bestway (USA) Inc. (Chandler, Arizona) (Bestway), Intex Recreation Corp. (Long Beach, California) and Polygroup North America Inc. &nbsp;(El Paso, Texas) are announcing the recall of about 5 million 48-inch and taller above-ground pools that use compression straps. These straps wrap around the pool on the outside of the supporting poles, and may create a foothold, allowing a child to access the pool and drown.<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Bestway-Intex-and-Polygroup-Recall-Certain-Above-Ground-Pools-48-Inches-and-Taller-Due-to-Drowning-Hazard-Nine-Deaths-Reported-Five-Million-Pools-Sold-Since-2002?utm_campaign=&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=20250721">Click here for additional information.</a>Children can still gain access to the pools using these footholds even if the ladder is removed.&nbsp;CPSC believes that nine children between the ages of 22 months and 3 years old have drowned&nbsp;after gaining access to the pools via the footholds. The incidents occurred in California, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin and Missouri between 2007 and 2022.CPSC is also aware of three other incidents in 2011 and 2012 where children who gained access to the recalled pools were reported to have previously used the compression strap to gain entry to the pool.Consumers should immediately contact Bestway, Intex, and Polygroup to receive a free repair kit consisting of a rope that attaches to each of the vertical support poles at the ground level and wraps around the pool. The rope will maintain the structural integrity of the pool (a function previously served by the compression strap). Consumers should first secure the repair and then cut and remove the compression strap from the pool.&nbsp;The pool brand names and model numbers are printed on the pool liner on the outside of the pool. Pool models of 48 inches and taller that are included in this recall are listed below:

Millions of above ground pools under recall after reports of 9 deaths

LINCOLN – Nebraska Attorney General Hilgers and Nebraska Governor Pillen announced today that Nebraska has sued the State of Colorado to enforce the South Platte River Compact and clear the way for construction of the Perkins County Canal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska and Colorado signed the South Platte River Compact in 1923. The Compact was approved by both states’ legislatures, ratified by Congress in 1926, and has the force of federal law. The Compact limits certain Colorado uses and defines how much water Nebraska is to receive from the river in both the summer (irrigation) season and the winter (non-irrigation) season.

Colorado is currently threatening Nebraska’s water supply of the South Platte River in at least two ways. First, Colorado allows unlawful water diversions that have deprived Nebraska of its right to water during the irrigation season. Second, Colorado is obstructing Nebraska’s efforts to construct the Perkins County Canal.

The U.S. Supreme Court has original jurisdiction regarding disputes between states. The Court’s intervention is needed to stop Colorado’s violations of the South Platte River Compact and to resolve what has turned into an irreconcilable conflict over the design and operation of the Perkins County Canal.

“Today’s action will ensure that Nebraska receives all the water to which it is entitled to under the Compact and that Nebraska’s agriculture and economy are protected. Our suit has two basic elements: First, it challenges Colorado’s ongoing, unauthorized overuse of Nebraska’s water during the summer and the rationale Colorado uses to justify it.&nbsp;Second, we challenge Colorado’s efforts to obstruct the construction of the Canal and prevent Nebraska from accessing the additional water Nebraska is entitled to in the South Platte River Compact. Water is the essential lifeblood of Nebraska’s economy, and it’s my goal to protect one of the state’s most important assets,” stated Attorney General Mike Hilgers.

Governor Pillen added, “Today’s action comes only after we made every reasonable effort to resolve our differences with Colorado.&nbsp;Ultimately, Nebraska must push forward to secure our water for future generations. Although we hoped to avoid a lawsuit, we are confident we remain on schedule to complete the Perkins County Canal by 2032.”

Colorado is now required to answer Nebraska’s claims, and the U.S. Supreme Court will later decide how to proceed.

LINCOLN – Nebraska Attorney General Hilgers and Nebraska Governor Pillen announced today that Nebraska has sued the State of Colorado to enforce the South Platte River Compact and clear the way for construction of the Perkins County Canal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska and Colorado signed the South Platte River Compact in 1923. The Compact was approved by both states’ legislatures, ratified by Congress in 1926, and has the force of federal law. The Compact limits certain Colorado uses and defines how much water Nebraska is to receive from the river in both the summer (irrigation) season and the winter (non-irrigation) season.Colorado is currently threatening Nebraska’s water supply of the South Platte River in at least two ways. First, Colorado allows unlawful water diversions that have deprived Nebraska of its right to water during the irrigation season. Second, Colorado is obstructing Nebraska’s efforts to construct the Perkins County Canal.The U.S. Supreme Court has original jurisdiction regarding disputes between states. The Court’s intervention is needed to stop Colorado’s violations of the South Platte River Compact and to resolve what has turned into an irreconcilable conflict over the design and operation of the Perkins County Canal.“Today’s action will ensure that Nebraska receives all the water to which it is entitled to under the Compact and that Nebraska’s agriculture and economy are protected. Our suit has two basic elements: First, it challenges Colorado’s ongoing, unauthorized overuse of Nebraska’s water during the summer and the rationale Colorado uses to justify it.&nbsp;Second, we challenge Colorado’s efforts to obstruct the construction of the Canal and prevent Nebraska from accessing the additional water Nebraska is entitled to in the South Platte River Compact. Water is the essential lifeblood of Nebraska’s economy, and it’s my goal to protect one of the state’s most important assets,” stated Attorney General Mike Hilgers.Governor Pillen added, “Today’s action comes only after we made every reasonable effort to resolve our differences with Colorado.&nbsp;Ultimately, Nebraska must push forward to secure our water for future generations. Although we hoped to avoid a lawsuit, we are confident we remain on schedule to complete the Perkins County Canal by 2032.”Colorado is now required to answer Nebraska’s claims, and the U.S. Supreme Court will later decide how to proceed.

Nebraska Sues Colorado over Rights to  South Platte River in U.S. Supreme Court

It is with both sadness and hope that the elders of Grace Community Church announce that Pastor John MacArthur has gone to be with the Lord after 56 years of faithful ministry. Last week, Pastor John unexpectedly contracted pneumonia, and the Lord took him home on Monday, July 14. Dr. MacArthur was 86 years old, according to a statement on the church web site.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia; four children; fifteen grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

To millions through the media ministry of Grace to You, Pastor John was a preacher of the Word. To tens of thousands of students, he was the beloved president and chancellor of The Master's University. To thousands of graduates of The Master's Seminary, he was a champion of biblical exposition. To numerous churches and pastors abroad through The Master's Academy International, he was a stalwart for the truth. To his church, he was our dear pastor—a fearless leader in challenging times. To his family, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

At the center of Dr. MacArthur's ministry was an unwavering commitment to declare God's truth, and Pastor John preached the Word in season and out of season. Even in recent years, though beset with health challenges, he persisted in teaching, leading, and investing in the ministries the Lord had entrusted to him. Pastor John modeled a true fortitude for His Lord Jesus, believing that to live is Christ and therefore to die is gain. Having fought the good fight, finished the course, and kept the faith, Pastor John was summoned home by his heavenly Master. His faith is now sight; he is at home with the Lord; and he has heard the words, "Well done good and faithful slave" (<a href="https://ref.ly/Matt%2025.21;nasb95?t=biblia" target="_blank">Matthew 25:21</a>).

Join with us in praying for Pastor John's wife, Patricia, and family in this season of sadness mixed with eternal joy. Though our hearts are heavy with this loss, we do "not grieve as do the rest who have no hope" (<a href="https://ref.ly/1%20Thess%204.13;nasb95?t=biblia" target="_blank">1 Thessalonians 4:13</a>). For those who die in Christ are His, and He loses not one. This is the hope Pastor John preached in his final sermon series on Revelation: "The worthy Lamb will come and conquer this sinful world and reign forever. And we will reign with Him. Glory upon glory upon glory. I don’t know about you, but I say with the apostle John, 'Even so, come, Lord Jesus.'”

It is with both sadness and hope that the elders of Grace Community Church announce that Pastor John MacArthur has gone to be with the Lord after 56 years of faithful ministry. Last week, Pastor John unexpectedly contracted pneumonia, and the Lord took him home on Monday, July 14. Dr. MacArthur was 86 years old, according to a statement on the church web site.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our hearts are heavy, yet rejoicing, as we share the news that our beloved pastor and teacher John MacArthur has entered into the presence of the Savior. This evening, his faith became sight. He faithfully endured until his race was run. 2 Timothy 4:1-8 <a href="https://t.co/5JplmC0Dvp">pic.twitter.com/5JplmC0Dvp</a>&mdash; Grace to You (@gracetoyou) <a href="https://twitter.com/gracetoyou/status/1944937107937464752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia; four children; fifteen grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.To millions through the media ministry of Grace to You, Pastor John was a preacher of the Word. To tens of thousands of students, he was the beloved president and chancellor of The Master's University. To thousands of graduates of The Master's Seminary, he was a champion of biblical exposition. To numerous churches and pastors abroad through The Master's Academy International, he was a stalwart for the truth. To his church, he was our dear pastor—a fearless leader in challenging times. To his family, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.At the center of Dr. MacArthur's ministry was an unwavering commitment to declare God's truth, and Pastor John preached the Word in season and out of season. Even in recent years, though beset with health challenges, he persisted in teaching, leading, and investing in the ministries the Lord had entrusted to him. Pastor John modeled a true fortitude for His Lord Jesus, believing that to live is Christ and therefore to die is gain. Having fought the good fight, finished the course, and kept the faith, Pastor John was summoned home by his heavenly Master. His faith is now sight; he is at home with the Lord; and he has heard the words, "Well done good and faithful slave" (<a href="https://ref.ly/Matt%2025.21;nasb95?t=biblia" target="_blank">Matthew 25:21</a>).Join with us in praying for Pastor John's wife, Patricia, and family in this season of sadness mixed with eternal joy. Though our hearts are heavy with this loss, we do "not grieve as do the rest who have no hope" (<a href="https://ref.ly/1%20Thess%204.13;nasb95?t=biblia" target="_blank">1 Thessalonians 4:13</a>). For those who die in Christ are His, and He loses not one. This is the hope Pastor John preached in his final sermon series on Revelation: "The worthy Lamb will come and conquer this sinful world and reign forever. And we will reign with Him. Glory upon glory upon glory. I don’t know about you, but I say with the apostle John, 'Even so, come, Lord Jesus.'”

John MacArthur, influential preacher, culture warrior dies at 86

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">Shauneen Miranda</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745271542976.png" alt="File photo U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon s (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)." />
 <figcaption>File photo U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon s (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">Shauneen Miranda</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday allowed the Trump administration, for now, to proceed with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-appeals-court-upholds-order-blocking-education-department-closure" target="_blank">mass layoffs and a plan to dramatically downsize the Education Department</a>&nbsp;ordered earlier this year.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We’re on it, Mr. President! <a href="https://t.co/URGYOsvHXN">https://t.co/URGYOsvHXN</a>&mdash; Secretary Linda McMahon (@EDSecMcMahon) <a href="https://twitter.com/EDSecMcMahon/status/1944912417718460436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The decision from the nation’s highest court marks a major victory for President Donald Trump, who has sought to overhaul the federal role in education.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/24pdf/24a1203_pol1.pdf" target="_blank">order</a>&nbsp;was unsigned, while Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented, indicating a 6-3 decision.The dissent, authored by Sotomayor, was scathing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752532757011.png" alt="Trump" />
 <figcaption>Trump</figcaption>
 </figure>“The majority is either willfully blind to the implications of its ruling or naive,” she wrote. “But either way the threat to our Constitution’s separation of powers is grave.”The Supreme Court’s order temporarily suspends lower court orders that: forced the agency to reinstate more than 1,300 employees gutted from a reduction in force, or RIF, effort; blocked the department from carrying out Trump’s executive order to dismantle the department; and barred the agency from transferring some services to other federal agencies.In a statement Monday, Education Secretary Linda McMahon celebrated the decision, saying “today, the Supreme Court again confirmed the obvious: the President of the United States, as the head of the Executive Branch, has the ultimate authority to make decisions about staffing levels, administrative organization, and day-to-day operations of federal agencies.”“While today’s ruling is a significant win for students and families, it is a shame that the highest court in the land had to step in to allow President Trump to advance the reforms Americans elected him to deliver using the authorities granted to him by the U.S. Constitution,” she said.“The U.S. Department of Education will now deliver on its mandate to restore excellence in American education. We will carry out the reduction in force to promote efficiency and accountability and to ensure resources are directed where they matter most — to students, parents, and teachers.”A coalition of teachers, unions and school districts that sued over Trump’s order to eliminate the department and the mass layoffs said they were “incredibly disappointed by the Supreme Court’s decision to allow the Trump-Vance administration to proceed with its harmful efforts to dismantle the Department of Education while our case moves forward.”“This unlawful plan will immediately and irreparably harm students, educators and communities across our nation. Children will be among those hurt the most by this decision. We will never stop fighting on behalf of all students and public schools and the protections, services, and resources they need to thrive,” they added.<h2>Challenge from Democratic state AGs, unions</h2>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/court-order-blocks-trump-eliminating-us-education-department" target="_blank">labor and advocacy coalition</a>&nbsp;and a slew of Democratic attorneys general each sued in March over some of the administration’s most consequential education initiatives.One of the lawsuits comes from a coalition of Democratic attorneys general in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington state and Wisconsin.The other lawsuit was brought by the American Federation of Teachers, its Massachusetts chapter, AFSCME Council 93, the American Association of University Professors, the Service Employees International Union and two school districts in Massachusetts.A Massachusetts federal judge consolidated the lawsuits and granted the states’ and groups’ preliminary injunction in May.The administration appealed that decision, leading to a June decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 1st Circuit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-appeals-court-upholds-order-blocking-education-department-closure" target="_blank">keeping in place</a>&nbsp;the district court’s order.The Trump administration then asked the Supreme Court to intervene.&nbsp;