"I will not vote for him in a permanent capacity." — Sen. Mitch McConnell on Bill Pulte
McConnell Challenges Pulte's DNI Appointment
Senator Mitch McConnell issued a statement criticizing Bill Pulte, Trump's pick for acting director of national intelligence, as unqualified. McConnell stated he would not vote for Pulte in a permanent capacity, citing statutory eligibility requirements.
Supreme Court Greenlights Alabama Congressional Map
The Supreme Court allowed Alabama to use a congressional map that eliminates one of the state's two majority-Black districts. The court ruled that lower court findings of discriminatory intent did not override the state's districting criteria.
Trump Downplays Iran Attack
President Trump downplayed an Iranian attack in Kuwait that killed one person, calling it "not a big deal" and suggesting it was provoked by US strikes. He claimed ceasefire negotiations are proceeding.
Trump Appoints Bill Pulte as Acting DNI
Donald Trump appointed Bill Pulte, head of FHFA, as acting director of national intelligence, replacing Tulsi Gabbard. Democrats expressed concern that this could jeopardize renewal of FISA Section 702.
Trump: Iran Nuclear Deal Gave Iran a Bomb
Trump stated that the 2015 Iran nuclear deal "gave them a nuclear weapon," contradicting the agreement's text which states it ensures Iran's program is exclusively peaceful.
Supreme Court Ruling on Voting Rights
Legal scholars commented that the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais and the Alabama case effectively closes the door on most Section 2 Voting Rights Act claims.
Other Developments
- Scott Bessent declined to comment on Trump's IRS audit immunity, citing litigation.
- Senate Republicans dropped $1bn ballroom funding from the immigration bill.
- Trump confirmed yelling at Netanyahu over airstrikes in Lebanon.
- Trump plans to attend the G7 summit in France and an NBA finals game.