Policy & Law

Jack Smith's Trump Investigation Swept up Texts From 44 Lawmakers, Bypassing Review Process

Senate Republicans allege Special Counsel Jack Smith violated the Constitution's Speech & Debate Clause by obtaining and reviewing text messages from nearly four dozen members of Congress without proper protocol.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, July 15, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Gov. Kathy Hochul Orders Election Year Pause on New Large-Scale Data Centers to Power AI in NY

The one-year moratorium blocks air permits for hyperscale data facilities seeking to connect to the state's electrical grid, a move critics say could slow AI development while supporters argue it protects grid stability.

By James Callahan · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

AOC Questions Legality of McConnell's Prolonged Senate Absence, Calls for Potential Legislation

The New York Democrat said there should be 'some line' on how long lawmakers can be absent as Republicans defend the Kentucky senator's record and insist he will return when needed.

By Eleanor Cross · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Google's Updated Privacy Settings Raise Questions About AI Training Data Practices

The policy change allows certain search-related photos and audio to be used for developing AI models, prompting debate over transparency and user consent.

By Marcus Webb · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Taco Bell Investigated as Lettuce Emerges as Possible Source of Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

Federal and state health officials are examining whether the fast-food chain's produce suppliers may be linked to a growing number of illness reports across multiple states.

By Marcus Webb · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

Amy Coney Barrett Recalls Heartbreaking Question From 12-Year-Old Son Over Bulletproof Vest

The Supreme Court justice testified before Congress that threats against her and other justices have risen 35% in 2026, prompting a major security budget push.

By James Callahan · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

US Navy Reimposes Strait of Hormuz Blockade as Conflict With Iran Intensifies

President Trump hosted Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi at the White House amid near-daily strikes between U.S. and Iranian forces.

By James Callahan · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Cyclospora Infections Surging Past 2019 Record; Michigan Links Cases to Lettuce

More than 30 states have reported infections in 2026, already surpassing the previous record of about 4,700 cases set six years ago.

By Marcus Webb · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

Supreme Court Justice Describes Wearing Bulletproof Vest and 'Swatting' Hoax at Home

Justice's public remarks highlight growing safety concerns for high-profile judicial officials amid rising threats against federal judges.

By Eleanor Cross · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Burnham Pledges New Hillsborough Law to End U.K.'s 'Cover-Up Culture' as MPs Approve Legislation

The proposed law, named for the 1989 stadium disaster that killed 97 Liverpool fans, would impose a duty of candor on public officials and shift power to ordinary citizens.

By Eleanor Cross · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 · 3 min read