Summary
Multiple major stories are developing simultaneously. A second U.S. Representative has resigned amid allegations. The conflict with Iran continues, impacting global economies. A federal jury has ruled that Live Nation operated as a monopoly. The Justice Department has filed motions related to January 6th convictions. A new report details the financial impact of the current tax season. Several other items were also reported.
Congressional Departures
Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA)
U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) announced his resignation from Congress. The announcement followed calls from more than 50 former staffers and several lawmakers for his resignation or expulsion.
Swalwell denied allegations of sexual assault and misconduct but acknowledged making "mistakes in judgment in the past."
He stated that expulsion without due process is wrong, but that it was also wrong for his constituents to have him distracted from his duties. Swalwell did not specify a departure date. He had suspended his gubernatorial campaign in California the previous day.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has 14 days to call a special election for the seat once it is vacated. NPR’s Elena Moore reported that the congressional seat is considered a safe Democratic seat.
Representative Tony Gonzales
U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales also announced his resignation following accusations of a sexual relationship with a staffer who later died by suicide.
U.S.-Iran Conflict & Economic Impact
Conflict Status
The United States and Iran are both blocking oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz. NPR’s Greg Myre reported that the blockade is affecting global economies as oil cannot reach international markets.
Iran’s economy, which relies heavily on oil exports, has been cut off from this flow by the U.S. blockade. Most countries have experienced economic effects, including higher gas prices in the U.S. after oil prices surged. President Trump has called for allies to join the blockade, but none have done so.
Presidential Statements
President Trump shared and later deleted an AI-generated image depicting himself in a manner some interpreted as Jesus-like. He stated the image was intended to show him as a doctor making people feel better.
Trump has also publicly criticized Pope Leo XIV, who has spoken against the war in Iran.
NPR’s Danielle Kurtzleben noted Trump's political position is vulnerable due to the ongoing war, stalled peace talks, and high prices, and that criticism of the pope could affect his support. Pope Leo XIV stated he is undeterred by Trump's criticism and will continue to advocate for peace, dialogue, and cooperation, emphasizing the human suffering caused by global conflicts during the start of an 11-day tour of Africa.
Legal and Other Developments
Live Nation Monopoly Ruling
A federal jury in Manhattan ruled that Live Nation and its subsidiary Ticketmaster operated as a monopoly that harmed consumers and overcharged ticket buyers. The decision followed four days of deliberation and is a result of a lawsuit brought by 33 states and the District of Columbia. The company previously settled an earlier antitrust lawsuit with the Justice Department.
DOJ Seeks to Vacate Jan. 6 Convictions
The Justice Department has filed papers aiming to vacate the seditious conspiracy convictions against members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. About a dozen defendants were released when Trump returned to office.
FISA Section 702
Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is set to expire on April 20 unless Congress renews it. The government states the provision is essential for counterterrorism and combating trafficking. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed concern that it allows warrantless surveillance of American citizens’ communications. Advocates warn that weakening the provision could threaten national security.
Tax Refunds
The White House projected the current tax season would see the largest average refunds in U.S. history, partly due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The average refund is about $350 higher than last year, but short of the $1,000+ estimate.
A Bipartisan Policy Center survey found 62% of respondents believed recent tax changes either harmed them or made no difference.
Whiting Awards
The Whiting Foundation announced 10 winners of the 2026 Whiting Award for emerging writers, which includes a $50,000 prize.
Deaths
Former NPR President and CEO Kevin Klose died at 85 from complications of Alzheimer's disease.