Is Inauguration Day a federal holiday? Why this year is different – NBC Chicago

The Trump administration and the EU are racing to finalize a trade deal before the August 1 deadline, with potential tariffs threatening to increase costs for consumers and businesses. Recent agreements with other trading partners, like Japan, suggest a framework for negotiations, while the EU could agree to a 15% tariff, which would still raise prices despite being lower than previous threats. Want More Context? 🔎

The Supreme Court ruled that President Trump can terminate three members of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, overturning a lower court's decision that deemed the firings unlawful. The decision aligns with previous rulings on the president's removal powers, despite dissent from the three liberal justices who argued it undermines the independence of the agency. Want More Context? 🔎

A US judge has denied the unsealing of grand jury materials from the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, citing Florida law, despite claims that US President Donald Trump’s name appears in related documents. The ruling, which emphasizes the need for grand jury secrecy, comes amid pressure on Trump for transparency in the case and ongoing political tensions surrounding Epstein's associates. Want More Context? 🔎

Idaho Killer Is Sentenced to 4 Consecutive Life TermsBrian Kohberger, who pleaded guilty to the murders of four Idaho college students, received a sentence of four consecutive life terms in a Boise courtroom. Family and friends of the victims expressed their grief through emotional impact statements during the proceedings. Want More Context? 🔎

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported that the Trump administration violated the Impoundment Control Act by withholding congressionally appropriated funds for the Head Start program, significantly reducing fund disbursement between January and April 2025. Despite requests for information, the Department of Health and Human Services failed to respond, leading GAO to conclude that federal law was breached. Want More Context? 🔎

House Energy and Commerce Chairman Rep. Brett Guthrie discussed his personal experience with organ transplantation and the need for public confidence in the system during a hearing on alarming organ procurement practices, which were revealed by a HRSA investigation showing 29% of patients had signs of life before procurement. Guthrie, whose mother died awaiting a liver transplant, emphasized the importance of maintaining donor participation and addressing these issues as a bipartisan concern. Want More Context?...