Section

Federal

Congress, the White House, federal agencies

Guardian — US

Senator Bernie Sanders Criticizes Congressional Response to AI Issues

Senator Bernie Sanders criticized Congress for its lack of attention to artificial intelligence issues, calling the president's ignorance on the matter 'truly embarrassing.' Meanwhile, FBI Director Kash Patel is testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where he faces scrutiny over his qualifications and the bureau's political conduct.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: -0.20
Wired

FBI Adjusts Hiring Standards Regarding Past Conduct

The FBI has revised its hiring standards, allowing individuals with certain past offenses, including a history of bestiality, to be considered for employment if the conduct occurred before age 18. This change was discussed by FBI Director Kash Patel during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on September 15, 2026. The FBI maintains that it continues to uphold high suitability standards for applicants.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: -0.20
Washington Examiner

Treasury Secretary Bessent discusses potential for $5,000 checks without Congressional approval

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that the Treasury Department is exploring the feasibility of issuing $5,000 checks to adults without Congressional approval, as proposed by President Trump. During a testimony before the House Financial Services Committee, Bessent stated that he would work with Congress if necessary and emphasized the administration's commitment to the proposal, which could cost approximately $1.3 trillion.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: +0.00
Axios

Rep. Thomas Massie Introduces Impeachment Resolution Against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth

Rep. Thomas Massie has introduced a resolution to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, alleging he has continued military operations in Iran in defiance of Congress. The resolution is unlikely to pass in the GOP-controlled Congress but is privileged, allowing for a full House vote. This follows previous efforts to limit the administration's military powers regarding Iran.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00
Guardian — US

House Oversight Committee Investigates Trump Jr.'s Wedding Ties to Russian Oligarch

Robert Garcia, the top Democrat on the House oversight committee, is investigating connections between the White House and Russian oligarch Umar Kremlev, who funded part of Donald Trump Jr.'s wedding. Garcia has requested documents and communications related to this matter from the White House.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00
abcnews.com

Kash Patel Testifies Before Senate Judiciary Committee on FBI Oversight

FBI Director Kash Patel is testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee, addressing oversight issues and allegations regarding his job performance. He is expected to discuss crime reduction statistics and the FBI's efforts in counter-terrorism, while also facing scrutiny over his past controversies.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00
mercurynews.com

FBI Director Kash Patel Testifies at Senate Hearing Amid Criticism

FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on September 15, 2026, defending the bureau's decision to relax hiring requirements related to prostitution and bestiality. The hearing was contentious, with Democrats criticizing Patel's leadership and accusing him of partisanship, while Patel maintained that the changes were intended to protect victims. This marked Patel's first appearance before the committee since September 2025.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.10
Daily Wire

Concerns Raised About Federal Employees' Political Neutrality

Concerns have been raised about federal employees potentially resisting President Donald Trump's agenda as they await a change in administration. Attorney General Todd Blanche addressed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of aligning federal work with the President's policies. The issue of ideological resistance among career employees has been a recurring theme during Trump's presidency, prompting discussions about the balance between political influence and the expertise of career officials.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00
The Daily Beast

FBI Director Kash Patel Responds to Questions About Russian Oligarch's Sponsorship of Trump Wedding

During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, FBI Director Kash Patel was questioned by Senator Richard Blumenthal regarding the sponsorship of Donald Trump Jr.'s wedding by Russian oligarch Umar Kremlev. Blumenthal raised concerns about potential espionage and improper influence, while Patel stated that the FBI is actively investigating counterespionage cases, including those related to Russia. Other Democrats have also called for an investigation into the matter.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: -0.10
Al Jazeera English

FBI Director Kash Patel Defends Changes to Hiring Policy on Prostitution and Bestiality

FBI Director Kash Patel defended the bureau's changes to hiring policies regarding prostitution and bestiality during a Senate hearing, stating the aim was to protect victims from automatic disqualification. The changes have sparked debate among lawmakers, with criticisms directed at Patel's leadership and the timing of the policy adjustments amid recruitment challenges for the FBI.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.20
Washington Examiner

FBI Agent Proposed Investigation into Elon Musk Over DOGE Initiative

An FBI agent proposed a criminal investigation into Elon Musk in February 2025 over concerns related to his DOGE initiative. The proposal, made by then-Special Agent Kevin Gounaud, cited potential misuse of official time and information security violations. The records were released by Senator Chuck Grassley during an oversight hearing, which aimed to highlight perceived bias within the FBI.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00
Washington Examiner

House Addresses Key Issues in Final Week Before Midterm Elections

The House is addressing key issues in its final week before the midterm elections, including the Ratepayer Protection Act, sanctions on Russia, and military actions in Iran. Lawmakers are also facing a potential impeachment vote against President Trump, which may lead to internal party conflicts.

Bias: 45 Sentiment: +0.00
The Daily Beast

Court Finds Senior Aide to Kristi Noem Destroyed Evidence in Federal Case

A federal court ruling has found that Karen Evans, a senior aide to Kristi Noem, deliberately destroyed messages relevant to a case concerning job cuts at FEMA. Judge Susan Ilston determined that Evans acted with intent to deprive plaintiffs of these communications, which has significant implications for the ongoing litigation against the Trump administration's downsizing measures at the agency.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: -0.20
The Daily Beast

Laura Loomer Criticizes GOP Following Mitch McConnell's Return to Congress

Laura Loomer criticized the Republican Party following Senator Mitch McConnell's return to Congress after a 92-day absence due to health issues. Loomer claimed McConnell's appearance indicated he was unfit to serve, drawing comparisons to President Joe Biden's situation. McConnell acknowledged his ongoing recovery and expressed his commitment to participate in Senate activities.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.50
New York Post

Cremation of Thomas Matthew Crooks, accused of attempting to assassinate Trump, funded by anonymous donor

Thomas Matthew Crooks' cremation was funded by an anonymous donor following his alleged assassination attempt on President Trump. The information emerged from documents reviewed by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, indicating the Crooks family struggled to cover funeral costs. Rep. Clay Higgins raised concerns about the FBI's quick release of Crooks' body for cremation.

Bias: 33 Sentiment: -0.20