Rep. Jim Jordan evaded questions on CNN about Donald Trump's proposed $1.776 billion "weaponization fund" for DOJ-prosecuted individuals, despite Trump's intent to revive it. This puts Jordan at odds with Senate Republicans who view it as a "slush fund" and oppose Todd Blanche's confirmation until the fund is ruled out.
The revised CLARITY Act faces unusual divisions among Wall Street, Washington, and the crypto industry. While Goldman Sachs supports advancing the bill, banking groups oppose stablecoin reward provisions. Cardano's founder aligns with Senator Warren on presidential involvement, complicating its path to Senate passage.
Democratic Senator Ruben Gallego announced he will collaborate with Republicans on a counterproposal for the CLARITY Act's ethics provisions, calling the recently released draft "not a serious effort" due to its perceived shortcomings in barring federal officials from digital asset involvement.
Democratic Senator Ruben Gallego criticized the ethics provisions in the Senate Republicans' proposed CLARITY Act as "not a serious effort," stating they fall short. He announced plans to work with Republican Senator Thom Tillis on a counterproposal to the draft, which aims to bar federal officials, including the President, from issuing or sponsoring digital assets.
US Senate Republicans released an updated CLARITY Act text on July 22, advancing a federal market-structure framework for digital assets. The bill addresses ethics rules for officials, stablecoin rewards, and developer protections, moving towards a potential floor vote despite ongoing negotiations.
Senate Republicans released the Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act, featuring ethics provisions that would temporarily bar all US federal officials, including President Trump, from issuing or sponsoring digital assets. The ban, expiring in 2029, would be enforced by the US Attorney General, but faces pushback from Democrats over enforcement and scope.
Senate Republicans return to Washington with an uncertain agenda following the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham and the continued hospitalization of Senator Mitch McConnell. Graham, a key ally of President Trump, died at 71 after an aortic dissection. McConnell, recovering from pneumonia and a fall, broke his silence about his health, revealing he was briefly unconscious. Their absences weaken the Republican majority and complicate legislative priorities.
Tributes highlight Senator Lindsey Graham's pivotal role as a liaison between the Trump White House and the Senate. His ability to bridge divides, negotiate deals, and advise the president on policy and foreign affairs was considered "colossal" and "multidimensional," making his loss a "devastating development" for those working with the administration.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has died, leaving a vacancy in the US Senate. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has the authority to appoint a replacement, potentially impacting President Trump's agenda. The appointment's timing and the chosen candidate's strategy remain uncertain.
Republican leaders are addressing growing speculation and conspiracy theories surrounding Mitch McConnell's health and transparency after his hospital admission on June 14. Successor John Thune and whip John Barrasso have spoken with McConnell, reporting him engaged and discussing Senate matters, aiming to quell backlash from Trump supporters.
Porter McConnell, daughter of Senator Mitch McConnell, has deleted her X account amid speculation about her father's health following his June hospitalization. The senator's recent health issues have raised concerns about his ability to lead.
President Trump's influence over Senate Republicans is tested as legislative priorities clash. A bipartisan housing bill faces a potential veto, while stalled FISA reauthorization and a key nomination highlight the growing friction.
Senate Majority Leader Thune works to secure a permanent director of national intelligence while President Trump pressures for the Save America Act; intra-party tensions rise as votes on key policies and tools like FISA 702 loom, threatening GOP unity ahead of the midterms.
The Senate passed a symbolic Iran war powers resolution 50-48, directing President Trump to remove U.S. forces from hostilities. The vote, with bipartisan support, signals congressional resistance to Trump's Iran policy.
Planned Parenthood is poised to regain federal funding as a year-long Republican ban, enacted via a budget reconciliation bill, is set to expire without an extension. Republicans reportedly lack the votes to extend the ban, facing challenges due to narrow majorities and upcoming midterms.
Tensions between Donald Trump and Senate Republicans have escalated, marked by his undermining of nominee confirmations and demands on legislation. This strain contrasts sharply with their previous collaboration, leaving Republicans defending Trump's actions as elections approach.
President Trump is reportedly pressuring Senate Republicans regarding his intelligence leadership appointments, delaying a key confirmation while installing Bill Pulte in a temporary role. Critics, like Sen. Elissa Slotkin, argue Pulte's appointment aims to weaponize the intelligence community for political purposes.
US Vice President JD Vance and several Republican senators voiced skepticism about a newly reached agreement with Iran, citing a lack of specifics and demanding more information before it is finalized. The deal reportedly involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz and financial incentives for Iran.
Senate Republicans narrowly defeated a Democratic attempt to block Donald Trump's proposed $1.8bn fund for allies. The amendment failed 49-50, with three Republicans joining Democrats. The fund, intended for those connected to the January 6 insurrection, has caused internal party division.
Senate Republicans are attempting to pass immigration funding, while Israel and Lebanon have renewed a ceasefire. President Trump has also altered federal worker status, and concerns arise over heat risks at the Men's World Cup.
Senate Republicans are advancing a $72 billion reconciliation package for immigration enforcement, excluding Secret Service funding. This follows a delay over concerns about a "weaponization fund" for those alleging federal targeting, though former President Trump's stance remains unclear.
Senate Republicans removed up to $1 billion in security funding for President Trump's proposed White House ballroom and the Secret Service from a revised immigration enforcement bill. The move aimed to avoid political and procedural hurdles, as well as concerns about appearing out of touch before midterm elections.
Senate Republicans are considering moving forward with immigration funding legislation this week after the Trump administration announced it would drop a controversial $1.8 billion settlement fund. Democrats had threatened numerous votes on the fund, which was intended to compensate those claiming political prosecution.
Senate Republicans express surprise and skepticism over President Trump's appointment of Bill Pulte as acting Director of National Intelligence, citing his lack of qualifications and past criticisms of Trump's perceived enemies. This move signals growing impatience among some Republicans, potentially jeopardizing Trump's legislative agenda.
