The head of the U.S. bank regulator indicated he would consider a request from Democratic lawmakers to review the application of World Liberty Financial, a crypto venture backed by the Trump family, for a national trust bank charter. Democrats expressed concerns about potential conflicts of interest and requested access to unredacted application information, while the regulator emphasized the fairness and transparency of the process. The company stated it has complied with all regulatory requirements.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promoted the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement through a viral video featuring an action figure of himself portraying a superhero fighting chronic disease, encouraging healthy eating and flipping the food pyramid. The video references recent dietary guidelines emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense foods and includes unconventional marketing tactics, such as a workout video with Kid Rock. The response online has been mixed, and it is unclear whether the figures will be available for purchase.
The rivalry between Donald Trump's political strategists, Steve Bannon and Chris LaCivita, has intensified over a contested Republican Senate primary in Texas, with Bannon supporting Ken Paxton and LaCivita backing incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Bannon publicly criticized the involvement of the Trump team in the race, while tensions also relate to past controversies involving Bannon’s communications with Jeffrey Epstein. The internal conflict highlights broader tensions within the MAGA political circle as they vie for influence ahead of upcoming House and Senate battles.
Ahead of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s visit to Texas, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller highlighted the state's Farm Fresh Initiative, which has increased participation to 79% of Texas schools and promotes local, nutrient-dense foods over processed options. Miller emphasized the importance of updating school nutrition standards and strengthening local agriculture ties to improve children's health and support rural communities.
Republican Rep. Kevin Kiley faces a difficult reelection decision due to California's redistricting, which has split his district and reduced his options. He is considering running against fellow Republican Tom McClintock in a primary or competing in a Democratic-leaning district, with his choice expected to be announced soon. Kiley has maintained an independent stance, criticizing GOP leadership and Trump, which may appeal to moderate voters in his potential new district. His campaign has significant financial resources and recent ad spending, but political analysts suggest his chances depend on which district he ultimately chooses to run in.
A letter to the Duluth News Tribune criticizes U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber, suggesting he is a "third-string" member of Congress, overshadowed by other Republican leaders aligned with Trump. The author condemns Stauber's perceived role as a compliant team player, failing to lead effectively amid national and global challenges such as security threats, political influence, and corruption. The letter emphasizes frustration with the current leadership and questions Stauber's willingness to challenge the status quo.
President Donald Trump's State of the Union aimed to maintain support from his MAGA base, which polls show remains largely loyal at around 93%. However, overall approval of Trump has declined, with a CNN/SSRS poll indicating only 36% approval nationwide.
Ethel Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy were married in 1950 and had 11 children before his assassination in 1968; she was pregnant with their youngest, Rory, at the time of his death. After his passing, Ethel remained active in social justice causes and established the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights foundation, which her daughter Kerry now oversees. She vowed never to remarry out of respect for Robert's memory and passed away in October 2024 at age 96.
The article describes the ongoing resistance in the Twin Cities following the killing of Renée Nicole Good by a federal agent, highlighting the protests, vigils, and acts of kindness within the community. It emphasizes the emergence of both visible demonstrations and invisible networks of support, such as local store owners offering shelter and warmth to protesters. The piece underscores the importance of collective resilience, kindness, and unity amid violence, grief, and societal division.
Hillary Clinton testified before the House Oversight Committee that she had no knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes and did not recall meeting him. During the closed-door session, she stated she never flew on Epstein's plane or visited his properties. The deposition was part of a broader investigation into Epstein, with Clinton's husband, Bill Clinton, also scheduled to testify, despite their lack of alleged wrongdoing. The hearings involved tense exchanges and procedural disruptions, and further testimonaries are planned.
The FX series "Love Story" offers a dramatized portrayal of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette's relationship, ending with their 1999 plane crash. Critically, the show is criticized for slow pacing, exaggerated characterizations, and unconvincing costume recreations that lack the authentic ’90s fashion. The reliance on public fascination with the Kennedys and the absence of family consultation have resulted in a portrayal deemed insubstantial and intrusive, with early episodes failing to capture the couple's allure.
Philip Grillo, a former Queens Republican Party district leader and January 6 Capitol rioter, announced a campaign for New York State Assembly in eastern Queens, where he will face multiple opponents in the GOP primary. Despite his political ambitions, Grillo has a history of unsuccessful campaigns and was recently convicted and imprisoned before being pardoned by then-President Trump.
