Section

Federal

Congress, the White House, federal agencies

Washington Examiner

Senator Cornyn Reaches Agreement with DOJ on Todd Blanche Nomination

Senator John Cornyn has reached an agreement with the Justice Department to facilitate Todd Blanche's confirmation as attorney general. The deal includes the termination of the "anti-weaponization" fund and clarifies Blanche's testimony regarding Trump's tax audit immunity. The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to vote on Blanche's nomination this Tuesday.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00
Fox News — Politics

Todd Blanche Moves Closer to Senate Confirmation After Rescinding Fund

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is nearing Senate confirmation after rescinding a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund and clarifying tax protections in an IRS settlement. An agreement with Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis may facilitate support for his nomination at an upcoming committee vote, despite ongoing Democratic opposition.

Bias: 16 Sentiment: +0.10
The Hill

Senate Appropriations Committee Reaches Funding Agreement

The Senate Appropriations Committee has agreed on a funding bill to avert a government shutdown at the end of September, extending funding through part of December. A procedural vote is set for Monday night as Senate leaders aim for passage before recess.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.10
Washington Examiner

Trump Suggests Anti-Weaponization Fund May Be Reconsidered if Todd Blanche is Not Confirmed

President Donald Trump indicated that the anti-weaponization fund could be reconsidered if the Senate does not confirm acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. The fund, part of a settlement with the IRS, has faced bipartisan backlash. Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn are currently holding up Blanche's confirmation due to concerns about the fund and his past conduct.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: +0.00
apnews.com

Senate Proposes Short-Term Spending Bill to Prevent Government Shutdown

On August 2, 2026, key senators proposed a short-term spending bill to fund federal agencies through early December, aiming to avoid a government shutdown during the midterm elections. The bill maintains current funding levels and includes provisions to prevent fund transfers to the Border Patrol. Senate leaders emphasize the need for timely action to avoid repeating past shutdowns.

Bias: 16 Sentiment: +0.00
Fox News — Politics

Trump Administration Proposes Budget Cuts for Smithsonian Amid Ideological Review

The Trump administration has proposed reducing the Smithsonian Institution's budget below $1 billion for the first time since 2020, as part of an effort to eliminate perceived 'woke' ideology from its programs. A comprehensive review of the institution has led to recommendations for reforms in its exhibits and leadership to promote a different portrayal of American history.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: -0.10
Fox News — Latest

Trump Administration Proposes Budget Cuts for Smithsonian Amid Ideological Review

The Trump administration has proposed a budget cut for the Smithsonian Institution, reducing its funding request below $1 billion for the first time since 2020. This move is part of a larger effort to address what the administration considers ideological biases in federally funded cultural institutions, following a comprehensive review of the Smithsonian's exhibits and programs.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: +0.00
nbcnews.com

Sen. John Kennedy Discusses 'Anti-Weaponization' Fund and Jan. 6 Rioters

Senator John Kennedy expressed his reservations about the proposed 'anti-weaponization' fund during an NBC News interview, stating that he would not support funding for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. He indicated a willingness to consider legislation formalizing the fund but emphasized the need for restrictions on its beneficiaries. The discussion is tied to the nomination of Todd Blanche for attorney general, which has faced delays due to Republican concerns.

Bias: 33 Sentiment: +0.00
The Daily Beast

Jim Jordan Discusses Jack Smith Referral During CNN Interview

Ohio Representative Jim Jordan addressed allegations against former special counsel Jack Smith during a CNN interview, focusing on a referral he made to the Justice Department. The discussion included questions about acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's potential conflict of interest due to his past representation of Trump. Jordan defended his position, asserting that Blanche should not recuse himself from the investigation.

Bias: 16 Sentiment: +0.00
nbcnews.com

Trump Criticizes Jeanine Pirro for Dropping Vandalism Case Related to Reflecting Pool

President Donald Trump criticized Jeanine Pirro for dropping a vandalism case against David Hearn, a former Olympic canoeist accused of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The U.S. Attorney's Office stated that new evidence indicated the damage was due to flawed installation rather than vandalism. Trump's claims of vandalism were supported by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, despite the new findings.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00
notus.org

Trump and Burgum Criticize Pirro Over Reflecting Pool Damage Case Dismissal

President Trump and Interior Secretary Burgum criticized U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for her motion to dismiss the case regarding damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, which they attribute to vandalism. The DOI's assessment suggested that the damage was due to contractor errors, contradicting their claims. Burgum stated that his department provided evidence of vandalism and criticized the decision not to prosecute those involved.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.10
The Daily Beast

Senator Susan Collins Supports Mitch McConnell Amid Health Concerns

Senator Susan Collins defended Mitch McConnell against criticism regarding his health after a recent fall. She criticized calls for transparency from Governor Andy Beshear, who has questioned McConnell's ability to serve. Collins also shared her own health challenges, emphasizing that they do not impact her work.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00
Guardian — US

Trump Proposes Reviving $1.8 Billion Fund Amid Senate Committee Meeting on AG Nomination

Donald Trump has stated his intention to revive the $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund, which he had previously abandoned. This announcement coincides with a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting set for Tuesday to discuss Todd Blanche's nomination for attorney general, which has been stalled due to disputes with Republican senators.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00
The Daily Beast

Trump Urges GOP Senators to Support Todd Blanche for Attorney General Position

President Trump has urged Republican Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis to support his nominee for attorney general, Todd Blanche. Trump warned that failure to back Blanche could lead to continued opposition from him, particularly regarding the Anti-Weaponization Bill. The senators have expressed concerns over Blanche's independence and have sought written assurances about a controversial compensation fund.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: -0.20
Washington Examiner

Trump Appeals IRS Lawsuit Ruling Regarding Anti-Weaponization Fund

President Donald Trump has filed an appeal against a ruling that questioned his $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS, which sought to establish an anti-weaponization fund. The ruling stated that the lawsuit was for an 'improper purpose.' The fund, which has faced bipartisan criticism, is intended to compensate individuals the Trump administration claims were politically targeted.

Bias: 45 Sentiment: +0.10
Axios

Senator Tillis Comments on AG Nominee Amid Trump Fund Controversy

Senator Thom Tillis announced that he believes attorney general nominee Todd Blanche will not be confirmed due to President Trump's recent comments about his 'anti-weaponization' fund. Tillis expressed regret over Blanche's situation and hopes for a resolution by Tuesday. The White House has not commented on the matter.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.10