Congress advanced a series of major stories this week, from a bipartisan insurance measure that would shore up the nation’s terrorism coverage to a string of primary and Senate results that are shaping the midterm landscape. Here is a concise rundown of the day’s top developments.
Congress Moves to Extend Terrorism Insurance Backstop
US lawmakers overwhelmingly passed a bipartisan bill to extend the federal terrorism risk insurance backstop through 2034. The program is designed to help insurers cover losses from future terrorist attacks, giving the market a federal safety net.
Trump-Backed Candidates Sweep Arizona Primaries
Candidates backed by former President Donald Trump won Arizona’s primary contests by wide margins, setting up competitive November matchups and high-stakes midterm showdowns across the state.
Clarence Thomas Criticizes Supreme Court’s Decision on Florida Lawsuit
Justice Clarence Thomas publicly faulted the Supreme Court for declining to hear Florida’s lawsuit against California and Washington over commercial truck licensing. His objection was pointed, signaling a clear disagreement with the majority’s decision not to take up the case.
Federal Agents Search Ilhan Omar’s Washington Home
Federal agents searched the Washington home of Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar as part of an ongoing federal investigation. The probe has not been publicly detailed, and authorities have not disclosed its scope or focus.
Judge Dismisses Michael Wolff Lawsuit Against Melania Trump
A federal judge dismissed author Michael Wolff’s lawsuit against Melania Trump. The ruling clears a path for Trump to pursue a potential defamation claim against Wolff that could reach $1 billion.
Senate Races Take Shape in Kentucky and California
Barr Wins Kentucky Senate Seat
Republican Andy Barr defeated Democrat Charles Booker to win Kentucky’s pivotal U.S. Senate seat. He will succeed retiring Senator Mitch McConnell.
Schiff and Garvey Advance in California
Democrat Adam Schiff and Republican Steve Garvey advanced to the general election for California’s U.S. Senate seat, defeating progressive challenger Katie Porter.
Indiana Senate Leader to Resign After Redistricting Dispute
Indiana Senate leader Rodric Bray announced his resignation after defying Donald Trump’s push for a mid-cycle congressional redistricting plan. The move marks a notable rift between state Republican leadership and the former president.
Trump Expands Federal Law Enforcement in Washington, D.C.
The administration expanded federal law enforcement presence in Washington, D.C., to curb crime. The move has sparked a fierce debate over public safety, civil liberties and local home-rule governance.
House Democrats Split With Leadership on Campus Funding Bill
Thirty-three House Democrats broke with Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to help pass a Republican bill that restricts federal college funding for institutions that participate in anti-Israel boycotts. The vote exposed deepening divisions within the Democratic caucus over Israel policy.
Trump’s Televised Threats Against Journalists Draw Scrutiny
Trump’s live televised threats against journalists have triggered widespread concern abroad and renewed constitutional debates over press freedom in the United States.
First Republican Enters 2028 Presidential Race
An investment executive launched an early bid for the 2028 presidential nomination, following a failed Republican primary campaign for Florida governor.
Also Making Headlines
Protesters confronted New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani at an event, with demonstrators voicing anger over Palestinian issues.
