Amanda CastroHannah Parry

By Amanda Castro and Hannah Parry

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President Donald Trump's overall approval rating remains unchanged this week, holding at a net -6.7 percent. While national sentiment shows little movement in overall job performance, new polling reveals a significant dip in public support for the president's handling of immigration, a core issue of his second-term agenda.

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Jul 14, 2025 at 07:59 PM EDT

Trump attends Howard Lutnick’s birthday dinner in Washington

President Trump is spending the evening at Howard Lutnick's house in the Foxhall neighborhood of Washington for a private birthday dinner for the commerce secretary.

Today is Lutnick's 64th birthday, the White House confirmed.

No guest list or itinerary was provided for the dinner but Trump's motorcade was seen arriving at Lutnick's home a short while ago.

Jul 14, 2025 at 07:49 PM EDT

WATCH: Jeffries Rips Trump for ‘playing footsie’ with Putin

Jul 14, 2025 at 07:30 PM EDT

Rep. Vindman says there is ‘no good reason’ to give Putin a 50-day deadline on tariffs

Democratic Rep. Eugene Vindman said on Monday that there was "no good reason" for President Donald Trump to give Vladimir Putin a 50-day deadline for ending the war in Ukraine.

Trump announced on Monday that he was planning to impose a 100 percent secondary tariff on countries that continued to do trade with Russia after the deadline had passed.

"There is no real good reason for a 50-day extension to impose tariffs...and this gives the president an opportunity to back out," Vindman said on CNN on Monday.

Jul 14, 2025 at 07:18 PM EDT

Zelensky says he had a ‘very good conversation’ with Trump after phone call

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that he'd had a "very good conversation" with President Donald Trump.

The world leaders, who spoke by phone on Monday afternoon, discussed how they can bring about an end to the Russian invasion, Zelensky said in a post on X.

The also discussed Trump's meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, with the Ukrainian leader adding, "It's important that we have such a good relationship, and that the Alliance countries are working to increase defense spending."

"We discussed the necessary means and solutions with the President to provide better protection for people from Russian attacks and to strengthen our positions. We are ready to work as productively as possible to achieve peace. We agreed to catch up more often by phone and coordinate our steps in the future as well. Thank you, Mr. President! Thank you, America!"

View this post on X

Jul 14, 2025 at 06:55 PM EDT

Zohran Mamdani reacts to Andrew Cuomo staying in NYC mayoral race

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani responded Monday after The New York Times reported that Andrew Cuomo will stay in the NYC mayoral race despite being handily defeated in the Democratic primary.

Mamdani spokesperson Jeffrey Lerner told the Times in a statement: "While Andrew Cuomo and Eric Adams are tripping over themselves to cut backroom deals with billionaires and Republicans, Zohran Mamdani is focused on making this city more affordable for New Yorkers. That's the choice this November."

Cuomo announced his decision to remain in the race in a video statement that was released after this story was published. The former governor said in his video that he's running as a counterweight to Mamdani, who Cuomo said "offers slick slogans but no real solutions."

Jul 14, 2025 at 06:50 PM EDT

Sonia Sotomayor accuses Supreme Court of rewarding Trump’s ‘clear defiance’

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor accused her conservative colleagues on the bench of rewarding President Donald Trump's "clear defiance" of the Constitution and the rule of law.

The court split along ideological lines on Monday, with the conservative majority clearing the way for the Trump administration to proceed with plans to lay off some 1,400 employees at the Department of Education (DOE).

Monday's was the latest in a series of Supreme Court emergency rulings that have gone in the Trump administration's favor.

The High Court issued a ruling last week saying the administration can move forward with plans to implement massive layoffs across the federal bureaucracy, though it specified it wasn't commenting on the legality of Trump's plan but merely allowing for it to be launched while the case makes its way through the lower courts.

The Supreme Court also recently handed Trump another major win when it issued a ruling limiting the ability of district judges to impose nationwide injunctions.

Read in full from Sonam Sheth on News

Jul 14, 2025 at 06:41 PM EDT

Senate approves first federal judge of Trump’s second term

The Senate on Monday confirmed the first federal judge of President Trump's second term.

Whitney D. Hermandorfer, of Tennessee, was confirmed 46 to 42, along party lines to a seat on the Cincinnati-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

Trump's first judiciary appointment comes much later into his second term, than his appointments in his first.

By this time in 2017, an appellate judge had already been confirmed and Neil M. Gorsuch had just been confirmed as a new Supreme Court justice.

Jul 14, 2025 at 06:08 PM EDT

Full list of products which could increase if Trump goes ahead with Mexico, EU tariffs

President Donald Trump threatened to increase tariffs on America's largest trading partners, the European Union and Mexico, over the weekend.

The 30 percent blanket tariffs would be in addition to existing sectoral tariffs on vehicles, steel, and more

Despite official claims that "foreign exporters will bear the cost," in practice, importers often pass the cost on to consumers.

Mexico

Produce (Fruits & Vegetables)

Tomatoes are already rising in price as a separate free-trade agreement expires, compounding the potential price hike from tariffs.

Electronics

Since the U.S. has pivoted toward Mexico for electronics (away from China), these tariffs could be particularly disruptive.

Alcoholic Beverages

European Union

Medical Equipment & Surgical Supplies

This would be in addition to existing 25% tariffs on autos, 50% on steel/aluminum, and planned tariffs on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.

Alcoholic Beverages (Beer, Wine, Spirits)

Notably, the E.U. may retaliate by taxing American alcohol exports, which could hurt U.S. distilleries.

Jul 14, 2025 at 05:55 PM EDT

Trump admin imposes 17 percent tariff on fresh Mexican tomatoes

The Trump administration has announced it is imposing a 17 percent tariff on fresh Mexican tomatoes after trade negotiations failed.

Mexico currently supplies around 70 percent of America's tomato market, according to the Florida Tomato Exchange.

The new tariff is likely to push up the costs of tomatoes for U.S. consumers, but the Trump administration say it will help bolster the American tomato industry and help achieve the goals of Americans eating American-grown produce.

Jul 14, 2025 at 05:31 PM EDT

Americans are souring on Trump since second term began, new poll shows

Half of U.S. adult citizens have a worse view of President Donald Trump since his second term began in January, according to a new poll from YouGov.

In the YouGov poll released Monday, 2104 U.S. adult citizens were polled whether their opinion of the president has changed since he started his second term. The poll shows 22 percent say they have an improved opinion of Trump, 24 percent say their opinion has not changed, and 50 percent say they have a worse opinion.

The survey was taken from July 9 to July 13 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percent.

The poll also shows that 39 percent approve of the way Trump is handling his job as president versus 56 percent who disapprove. Four percent are not sure.

Read in full from Anna Commander on Newsweek.

Jul 14, 2025 at 05:08 PM EDT

Pentagon abruptly pulls out of annual Aspen security conference

The Pentagon has abruptly pulled out of the annual Aspen Security Forum, a bipartisan event that has attracted senior security officials for years, claiming that the gathering promotes "the evil of globalism."

Navy Secretary John Phelan and Admiral Samuel Paparo, the head of the military's Indo-Pacific Command, had been set to speak at the four-day event before the Pentagon's announcement on Monday - less than 24 hours before the gathering begins.

"Senior representatives of the Department of Defense will no longer be participating in an event that promotes the evil of globalism, disdain for our great country and hatred for the president of the United States," Kingsley Wilson, a Pentagon spokeswoman, said in a statement to the New York Times.

It is not clear what prompted the last-minute pull out from the event. All the speakers had already been cleared to attend ahead of forum.

A spokesperson for the forum called the decision "unfortunate."

Jul 14, 2025 at 04:54 PM EDT

Hakeem Jeffries asks what Trump admin, DOJ ‘is hiding?’

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has slammed the Trump administration for its handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Jeffries said the GOP officials' calls for the release of the files, only for the administration to then turn around and deny the existence of a client list, suggested a cover-up.

"What, if anything, is the Trump administration and the Department of Justice hiding?" Jeffries told reporters at a Monday press conference.

"There are only two things that are possible here ... Option one, they lied for years. Option two, they're engaging in a cover up. At this point it seems reasonable that can only be one of the two things," he added.

Jul 14, 2025 at 04:36 PM EDT

Supreme Court gives Donald Trump another big win

The Supreme Court said President Donald Trump's administration can proceed with plans to layoff some 1,400 employees at the Department of Education—marking another win for the White House at the conservative-leaning high court.

A majority of the justices lifted a lower-court ruling that had indefinitely paused the Trump administration's plan. Liberal Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan dissented.

Jul 14, 2025 at 04:33 PM EDT

WATCH: Trump blames ‘terrible governor’ Newsom for California gas prices

Jul 14, 2025 at 04:26 PM EDT

Rep. Mike Kelly introduces resolution to condemn rise of political violence

Rep. Mike Kelly and House Republicans have introduced a resolution to condemn rise of political violence on the anniversary of the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump.

Kelly, who is from Butler, Pennsylvania where Trump was shot, has called for an end of hate speech while fellow GOP members condemned the Democrats for their rhetoric surrounding ICE and Republicans.

When asked if further funding was needed for security for the districts, Kelly suggested that the issue went beyond funds.

"I don't know of there's enough money in the world to that can address the problems we have with morality today," he said.

Jul 14, 2025 at 03:59 PM EDT

Trump’s immigration approval plunges, dragging ICE ratings down

Trump's approval rating on immigration has dropped sharply, according to multiple polls, undermining one of his signature issues and weakening support for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). CNN analyst Harry Enten highlighted the trend Monday, citing Gallup's net rating of minus-27 and similar declines in Quinnipiac, Marist, Ipsos, and Fox News surveys.

The downturn comes less than six months into Trump's second term, during which he has pushed aggressive deportation policies. Enten noted that Trump's approval among Hispanic voters—once a surprising strength—has collapsed from minus-2 in February to minus-26 in June, according to CBS News/YouGov polling.

ICE's public image has also suffered. Enten reported its net approval rating has fallen to minus-17, compared to a neutral rating during Trump's first term.

The data suggests growing public resistance to Trump's immigration crackdown, a reversal from the support that helped propel him to the GOP nomination and re-election.

Jul 14, 2025 at 03:43 PM EDT

WATCH: Trump says tariffs bringing ‘a lot of money’ into US

Jul 14, 2025 at 03:28 PM EDT

Democrats seize on Epstein memo to pressure Trump administration

Democrats are intensifying their criticism of Trump over his administration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, marking a sharp shift from their earlier reluctance to engage with conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein's death, NBC News reported. The renewed focus follows a Justice Department memo that dismissed claims of a client list and reaffirmed Epstein's suicide, sparking backlash from both Trump's base and political opponents.

The Democratic National Committee launched a daily campaign on social media demanding the release of all Epstein-related files, accusing the administration of either covering up damaging information or exploiting the issue for political gain. Congressional Democrats, including Reps. Marc Veasey and Ro Khanna, have introduced resolutions and legislative pushes to compel further disclosures.

On the campaign trail, Democrats in battleground states are using the controversy to challenge Republican incumbents and question Trump's credibility. Sen. Jon Ossoff of Georgia invoked Trump's past ties to Epstein while criticizing the administration's lack of transparency.

The White House has dismissed the criticism as politically motivated, with spokesman Harrison Fields defending the administration's unity and commitment to justice. Still, the memo's release has reignited public interest in the case and exposed divisions within Trump's inner circle, as figures like Pam Bondi and Dan Bongino face scrutiny over their roles in promoting earlier claims.

The Democratic pivot reflects a broader strategy to engage with issues that resonate across ideological lines, even those once dismissed as fringe. As the midterms approach, the Epstein files have become a potent symbol of accountability and political messaging.

Jul 14, 2025 at 03:12 PM EDT

Nursing homes face staffing crisis as Trump curbs immigration

Nursing homes across the U.S. are sounding alarms over a deepening workforce crisis, triggered by President Donald Trump's sweeping immigration restrictions. Facilities already struggling to recruit staff are now losing foreign-born workers whose legal status has been revoked, and face dwindling prospects for replacements as legal immigration slows.

Operators say the impact is immediate and severe. At A.G. Rhodes in Atlanta, CEO Deke Cateau expects to lose eight employees due to the rollback of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), calling them "impossible to replace." Nationwide, immigrants make up more than a quarter of direct care workers, and the aging population is driving demand even higher.

The crackdown has disrupted staffing pipelines, delayed visa approvals, and halted refugee admissions, once a reliable source of caregivers. Some facilities report workers staying home out of fear, while others scramble to fill shifts with little notice. In Florida, one nursing home lost 10 staffers and expects 30 more departures in the coming weeks.

Industry leaders warn that the crisis threatens care quality and access. With half of nursing home staff turning over annually, and wages averaging just $16.72 per hour, attracting U.S.-born workers remains a challenge. Advocates say the administration's policies overlook the essential role immigrants play in elder care and risk destabilizing a sector already stretched thin.

Jul 14, 2025 at 02:51 PM EDT

24 states sue Trump administration over $6.8B education funding freeze

A coalition of 24 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit Monday against the Trump administration for withholding $6.8 billion in federal education funding just weeks before the school year begins. The funds represent roughly 14 percent of all federal support for K–12 education and are critical for after-school programs, teacher training, and services for English learners and migrant students.

The lawsuit, led by Democratic attorneys general and governors from Pennsylvania and Kentucky, argues that the administration's move violates the Impoundment Control Act and the Constitution's separation of powers. The money was due to be distributed July 1 but was paused for review, with the White House citing misuse of funds to support "radical left-wing agendas."

The freeze has already triggered layoffs and program cancellations in districts across the country. In Monterey County, California, officials warned that 30 staff members could lose their jobs if funding isn't restored by September 7. Advocates say the cuts disproportionately affect low-income and rural communities, where federally funded after-school programs are often the only child care option.

The administration has proposed eliminating several of the targeted programs in its 2026 budget and questioned the constitutionality of the Impoundment Control Act. Some Republicans, including Rep. Mike Lawler of New York, have joined calls to release the funds, arguing that the programs align with Trump's stated goal of empowering states to manage education independently.

A federal judge in Rhode Island is expected to hear the case in the coming weeks.

Jul 14, 2025 at 02:41 PM EDT

Trump says he wants to remove restrictions on churches, to let them use their ‘power’

President Trump told a White House Faith Office luncheon Monday that he was ending the 1954 Johnson Amendment, which bans nonprofits and religious congregations from taking part in political campaigns because they've been restricted from using their "power."

"You have more power than anybody, but you're not allowed to use your power. I said, we're going to get rid of [the Johnson Amendment] because people want to hear what you have to say more than anybody else," Trump said.

"As president, I've ended the radical-left war on faith, and we're once again protecting religious freedom instead of destroying it," Trump said later. "And God is once again welcome back into our public square."

Jul 14, 2025 at 02:37 PM EDT

Trump warns Russia of new sanctions, pledges swift arms for Ukraine

President Donald Trump announced a new weapons deal with NATO allies on Monday, pledging to expedite arms shipments to Ukraine and warning Russia of severe economic consequences if it fails to agree to a peace deal within 50 days. Speaking from the Oval Office alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said the weapons would be "quickly distributed to the battlefield," with European nations covering the full cost.

The agreement includes Patriot missile systems and other advanced weaponry sourced from U.S. stockpiles. Trump emphasized that the U.S. would not bear the financial burden, framing the deal as a strategic win for both NATO and Ukraine.

Trump also threatened secondary sanctions—penalties targeting countries that continue financial dealings with Russia. While he expressed disappointment in Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump insisted he wasn't being misled, despite repeated setbacks in peace negotiations.

"He's fooled a lot of people," Trump said, listing past presidents. "He didn't fool me."

The announcement comes amid mounting pressure from Congress and European leaders for tougher action against Moscow. Though Trump has long claimed he could end the war swiftly, his administration has yet to deliver a breakthrough. The new sanctions threat marks a shift in tone as Russia intensifies its attacks and peace talks stall.

Jul 14, 2025 at 02:22 PM EDT

Trump describes Gaza as real estate deal, hints at U.S. redevelopment role

President Donald Trump on Monday described the Gaza Strip as "one of the worst real estate deals ever made," criticizing its formation as a loss of valuable "oceanfront property." The remarks came amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, with Trump suggesting that Israel could eventually cede control of Gaza to the United States.

For months, Trump has floated the idea of transforming Gaza into a resort destination, likening its potential to a Middle Eastern Riviera. He reiterated that U.S. authorities could oversee redevelopment efforts, with longtime real estate associate and foreign envoy Steve Witkoff tapped to lead planning.

"There could be something fairly soon to talk about," Trump said, hinting at forthcoming proposals. The comments follow earlier statements in which Trump envisioned luxury hotels and tourism infrastructure replacing the war-torn enclave.

While no formal plan has been released, Trump's remarks have drawn scrutiny from international observers and raised questions about the legal and humanitarian implications of such a transfer. Gaza remains at the center of a devastating conflict, with tens of thousands of casualties reported since the war began in 2023.

Jul 14, 2025 at 02:10 PM EDT

Mom of two US citizens faces deportation after reporting assault to police

Federal authorities are deporting a Michigan mother of two U.S. citizens after she reported an alleged assault to police.

Veronica Ramirez-Verduzco, 49, pleaded guilty to illegally reentering the United States from her native Mexico and was ordered to pay a $100 fine before being handed over to immigration authorities for removal from the country, according to the Detroit Free Press. Her deportation follows her attempt to seek help from police following alleged workplace harassment in southeastern Michigan.

Ramirez-Verduzco was not previously targeted by federal immigration authorities, but became known to officials only after she reported workplace harassment to the Van Buren Township Police Department earlier this year. She had been employed at a Belleville assisted living facility.

Read in full from Nick Mordowanec on Newsweek.

Jul 14, 2025 at 01:41 PM EDT

WATCH: California woman detained by Border Patrol at Home Depot

Jul 14, 2025 at 01:14 PM EDT

Trump appears to be blaming Powell for the high cost of housing in the U.S.

President Trump intensified his criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Monday, linking the central bank's interest rate policy to rising housing costs. Speaking to reporters, Trump called Powell "terrible" and accused him of mismanaging the economy by refusing to cut benchmark interest rates.

Despite ongoing economic growth, Trump argued that lower rates would make homeownership more accessible. "It would be nice if there were rate cuts," he said, "because people would be able to buy housing a lot easier."

Powell, however, has maintained a cautious stance, citing uncertainty around the inflationary impact of Trump's tariffs. The Fed has opted to hold rates steady while assessing how import taxes might affect prices and broader economic conditions.

Economists warn that aggressive rate cuts could fuel inflation, especially if tariffs drive up consumer costs. At the same time, prolonged trade tensions could slow growth, potentially forcing the Fed to act to prevent job losses.

The clash underscores a growing rift between the White House and the traditionally independent central bank, with housing affordability emerging as a flashpoint in the broader debate over monetary policy.

Jul 14, 2025 at 12:50 PM EDT

ICE arrest of Illinois man sparks lawsuit over warrantless detentions

Abel Orozco, a Mexican immigrant with no criminal record, was arrested outside his suburban Chicago home without a warrant, prompting a lawsuit that challenges a wave of January arrests conducted by ICE under President Trump. Attorneys say the arrests violated constitutional protections and a prior settlement agreement requiring probable cause and proof of flight risk.

Orozco, detained while buying tamales for his family, remains in custody six months later. His son recorded the arrest and now leads community efforts to seek justice. Advocates argue ICE fabricated warrants after detaining individuals and used aggressive, unmarked officers in residential neighborhoods.

A federal judge is weighing whether the arrests defied legal standards. Plaintiffs seek Orozco's release and policy reforms, alleging ICE's tactics caused lasting trauma and financial strain for dozens of families.

Jul 14, 2025 at 12:34 PM EDT

Trump’s education grant freeze threatens after-school programs

Trump's decision to freeze over $6 billion in federal education grants has put thousands of after-school and summer programs at risk, including those run by the Boys & Girls Club, YMCA, and public schools. The funding freeze affects the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, which serves 1.4 million children nationwide, primarily from low-income families.

In Rhode Island, state officials stepped in to keep summer programs afloat, but fall after-school services remain uncertain. Advocates warn that without federal support, hundreds of clubs could close within weeks, leaving families scrambling for child care and academic support.

The administration says the freeze ensures alignment with presidential priorities, citing concerns over funding for immigrant and LGBTQ+ services. Critics, including Republican educators, argue the move undermines programs already approved by Congress and signed into law.

For families like Darleen Reyes and her son Aiden, the freeze threatens more than convenience—it jeopardizes essential learning and care. As school districts brace for budget shortfalls, communities await a decision that could reshape access to education and enrichment nationwide.

Jul 14, 2025 at 12:04 PM EDT

Donald Trump ally reacts to Ghislaine Maxwell testifying about Epstein

Roger Stone

...

Roger Stone, a longtime political ally of President Donald Trump, has welcomed reports that Ghislaine Maxwell might be willing to testify to Congress about her ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

In a post on X, Stone said Epstein's former associate "has nothing on Trump," pushing back on speculation that Maxwell's testimony could implicate the president.

Epstein, a wealthy financier, died by suicide in jail in August 2019, weeks after his arrest on sex trafficking charges. His case has assumed renewed significance after the Trump administration ordered a review of the case and said it would publish names and evidence about associates of Epstein. However, a recent memo by the Department of Justice and the FBI stated there is no "client list," and there will be no more charges. This has triggered a backlash among those who want transparency about Epstein.

According to an anonymous source speaking to the Daily Mail, Maxwell, who was convicted in 2022 over her links to Epstein's illicit activities and is serving a 20-year prison sentence, has expressed a willingness to testify before Congress about her experiences.

Read the full story by Kate Plummer on Newsweek.

Jul 14, 2025 at 11:41 AM EDT

Trump threatens 100% tariffs on Russia over Ukraine war: Report

Trump announced plans to impose "secondary tariffs" of 100 percent on Russia if a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is not reached within 50 days.

View this post on X

Jul 14, 2025 at 11:23 AM EDT

Lawmakers weigh in on DOJ’s Epstein memo and Biden’s clemency record

Appearing on CNN News Central, Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) dismissed renewed scrutiny of the Justice Department's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case, calling it "a colossal waste of time and effort."

Lawler said that unless new evidence emerges, the controversy amounts to "a lot of nonsense," and emphasized that the country faces more pressing issues than revisiting the actions of a deceased sex offender.

Meanwhile, Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) defended former President Biden's recent clemency decisions, which included pardons for nonviolent drug offenders.

Van Hollen said Biden's actions were likely based on broader policy concerns about sentencing fairness, though he acknowledged questions remain about the use of an autopen to authorize the pardons. He added that he would "have to take a look" at the issue more closely.

Jul 14, 2025 at 11:01 AM EDT

Trump administration expands third-country deportation powers

U.S. immigration officials may now deport migrants to countries other than their own with as little as six hours' notice, according to a July 9 memo from ICE acting director Todd Lyons. The policy shift follows a Supreme Court ruling in June that lifted restrictions on such removals, allowing expedited deportations without prior screening for persecution risks.

The memo outlines that migrants can be sent to "third countries" that have pledged not to torture or persecute them, bypassing additional legal procedures. While ICE typically provides 24 hours' notice, the new rule permits faster removals in "exigent circumstances" if legal counsel is offered.

The Trump administration has already deported migrants from six nations to South Sudan and is pressuring five African countries to accept deportees from elsewhere. Critics, including immigration advocates and legal experts, warn the policy undermines due process and could endanger vulnerable individuals.

Jul 14, 2025 at 10:41 AM EDT

Trump’s push to defund public broadcasting sparks bipartisan concern

President Donald Trump has asked Congress to rescind nearly $1.1 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), the full amount allocated for the next two budget years. The proposal is part of a broader rescissions package targeting public media and foreign aid, and has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Republicans.

CPB distributes more than two-thirds of its funding to over 1,500 local public television and radio stations, with the remainder supporting national programming through NPR and PBS. Lawmakers from rural states have voiced concern about the impact of the cuts, warning that local stations could go dark without federal support.

Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) said the stations are vital for communication in remote areas and serve Native American communities. Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought defended the cuts, citing programming he described as politically biased, including a CNN town hall with "Sesame Street" focused on racism.

Jul 14, 2025 at 10:13 AM EDT

Trump’s approval rating dips amid economic and policy concerns

Trump's approval rating continues to fluctuate midway through the first year of his second term, with recent polling showing a modest decline. According to RealClear Polling's national average, 46.3 percent of Americans currently approve of Trump's job performance, while 50.3 percent disapprove.

The drop follows a wave of controversial policy moves, including the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill and expanded tariffs on Canadian imports. While Trump maintains strong support among Republican voters, his standing has weakened among independents and middle-income earners, particularly in states like Pennsylvania and Michigan.

Polls also show growing concern over inflation, healthcare cuts, and immigration enforcement, with many voters expressing skepticism about the long-term impact of Trump's economic agenda. Despite the turbulence, Trump's approval remains higher than at the end of his first term, when it hovered around 34 percent.

Jul 14, 2025 at 09:57 AM EDT

Trump’s approval rating dips amid second-term turbulence

One year after surviving an assassination attempt and six months into his second term, Trump's approval rating is showing signs of strain. While his overall favorability remains higher than during much of his first term, recent polling reflects growing public unease over his economic policies, immigration enforcement, and foreign affairs.

According to Rasmussen Reports, Trump's approval stands at 48 percent, down from a high of 56 percent in January. The Economist/YouGov poll places his approval at 42 percent, with 53 percent disapproving. Morning Consult reports a similar dip, with 45 percent approval and 52 percent disapproval.

In Pennsylvania, Trump's net approval rating is -9 percent, with 52 percent disapproving and 44 percent approving. Younger voters, women, and postgraduates show the strongest opposition, while Republicans remain overwhelmingly supportive.

The president's recent passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, aggressive ICE raids, and a bombing campaign in Iran have fueled controversy. As inflation concerns persist and trade tensions escalate, Trump's standing with key demographics—including middle-class and minority voters—continues to erode.

Jul 14, 2025 at 09:44 AM EDT

Donald Trump’s approval rating changes amid Epstein Files backlash

Trump

...

Donald Trump's approval rating has dropped in two polls as he faces criticism for his administration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

The president lost six approval points in a Morning Consult poll and one point in a Napolitan News Service poll between surveys taken last month and this month.

Newsweek has contacted the White House, via email outside of working hours, for comment.

Some Trump supporters feel let down after the president promised full transparency regarding the Epstein case, in particular over an alleged "client list" of people involved in the convicted pedophile's activities.

In June 2024, Donald Trump pledged to release the Epstein case files if elected president for a second term. Attorney General Pam Bondi fuelled speculation about a client list in February when she announced she would release records related to the case.

But last Monday, the Department of Justice and FBI published a joint statement and 11-hour prison video to support their conclusion that Epstein died by suicide in his New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting sex trafficking charges. They said he had "no incriminating 'client list'" and no further disclosure of information was warranted.

This has angered many, including prominent Trump supporters, who say the truth is being covered up and Epstein was murdered to prevent him speaking at his trial about other high-profile individuals involved with his activities.

Read the full story by Jordan King on Newsweek.

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