Republican senators have confirmed that the US Senate will not pass a $70bn homeland security bill before a 1 June deadline, amid a dispute over $1bn in security measures for Donald Trump's planned White House ballroom. The legislation also includes funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and border patrol, but the ballroom provision has caused a rift within the president's own party.
Republican Backlash Over Ballroom Funding
The proposal to allocate taxpayer money for Trump's "East Wing modernization project" has sparked intense anxiety among congressional Republicans. They fear that diverting funds to the ballroom, which includes a drone port and bulletproof glass, could alienate voters concerned about the rising cost of living, especially with the November midterm elections approaching. Senate Republicans told reporters on Thursday that the bill will not advance, as lawmakers leave Washington for the Memorial Day recess.
Trump has defended the funding, claiming it is necessary for national security. "If they want to spend money securing the White House, I think it would be very much a good expenditure," he said. When asked about the consequences of Congress not approving the funds, Trump warned, "Well, the White House won't be a very secure place."
Controversial $1.8bn 'Anti-Weaponization' Fund
In addition to the ballroom dispute, Senate Republicans have expressed concerns about a separate plan to create a secretive $1.776bn fund, which critics have labelled a "slush fund." This fund is intended to compensate Trump allies as part of an agreement where the president and his sons dropped a $10bn lawsuit against the IRS. The combination of these controversies has derailed the broader immigration and border security bill.
Other Key Developments
RFK Jr Fires Preventive Health Taskforce Leaders
Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has fired the two leaders of the US Preventive Services Taskforce, which sets guidelines for free preventive care like mammograms and colonoscopies. The termination letters were dated 11 May, ending their multiyear terms early.
EPA to Loosen Refrigerant Rule
The Trump administration plans to roll back a federal rule requiring grocery stores and air-conditioning companies to reduce greenhouse gases used in cooling equipment. EPA head Lee Zeldin said the Biden-era rule imposes costly restrictions, and the change aims to lower grocery costs.
Trump Endorses Spencer Pratt in LA Mayor's Race
Trump has endorsed Spencer Pratt, a former Republican and reality TV star, in the Los Angeles mayor's race. However, analysts suggest this endorsement could backfire, benefiting Democrats in the primary.
Health Advisory on Screen Time
Trump health officials have issued an advisory warning that excessive screen time for children and teens has become a public health concern, impacting sleep and mental functioning.
Healthcare Fraud Charges in Minnesota
The Justice Department has charged 15 people in Minnesota over an alleged $90m healthcare fraud scheme targeting government programs.
Other News
- The US is imposing strict restrictions on travelers exposed to dual Ebola and hantavirus outbreaks, raising legal concerns.
- Body-camera footage shows immigration officers stopping farm workers in Oregon, smashing windows and using facial recognition.
- Democrats published an autopsy on their 2024 election defeat after initial backlash over withholding the document.
- Homeland Security issued a "Be on the Lookout" alert for a comedian whose satire of immigration enforcement went viral.
- The International Energy Authority warned oil markets will enter the "red zone" by July-August due to dwindling stocks and a shortage of Middle East exports.
