Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent attempted to clarify his comments suggesting that the Trump savings accounts for newborns could serve as a 'back door' to privatize Social Security, prompting criticism from Democrats and advocacy groups who oppose privatization efforts.
During a Senate hearing, Democratic lawmakers criticized Mike Waltz over his involvement in the Signalgate messaging scandal, accusing him of lying about the leaked chats and expressing disappointment that he did not show remorse for sharing sensitive information, while Waltz blamed the Biden administration for approving the app.
Florida Rep. Byron Donalds defends his comments suggesting Black families were more intact during the Jim Crow era, amid criticism from Democrats who accuse him of romanticizing a period of racial segregation. Donalds clarifies that he was highlighting higher Black marriage rates before the welfare policies of the 1950s and 1960s, not claiming Black people were better off under Jim Crow. The controversy arises as Donalds is considered a potential running mate for Donald Trump, who is making efforts to gain support from non-White voters.
Rep. Byron Donalds, campaigning for Donald Trump, claimed Black families were stronger during the Jim Crow era, sparking condemnation from Democrats including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Donalds argued that Democratic policies since the civil rights movement have weakened Black family values. The controversy highlights Trump's efforts to attract Black voters, despite his history of antagonistic comments toward the Black community.
Republican Wisconsin Senate candidate Eric Hovde initially made controversial comments about elderly people in nursing homes voting, but later clarified that he does not oppose elderly people voting. Hovde's opponent, Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin, and Democrats have criticized his remarks, which were related to concerns about nursing home voting in the 2020 election. The issue of nursing home voting has been a point of contention in Wisconsin, with Republicans attempting to tighten rules about voting in nursing homes, but facing opposition from Democrats and the governor.
Former President Donald Trump declined to rule out abusing power or seeking retribution if he returns to the White House, in response to growing Democratic criticism of his rhetoric. Trump has talked about targeting his rivals and vowed to seek retribution if he wins a second term. President Joe Biden has warned that Trump is determined to destroy American democracy. Trump's campaign rhetoric and plans for a second term have alarmed Democrats and become a key argument for Biden. Trump's interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity raised concerns about his intentions if reelected.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, a Democrat and ally of the White House, has criticized the Biden administration's handling of the migrant influx, calling it an "untenable situation." Pritzker sent a letter to President Biden outlining the challenges Illinois is facing due to the thousands of migrants arriving in the state, particularly in Chicago. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson recently had a tense call with top White House officials, expressing their dissatisfaction with the federal government's response. The concerns of Democratic-led states and cities receiving migrants are likely to intensify as border crossings continue at historically high levels. Republicans have accused Biden of encouraging illegal crossings, and even some Democrats have begun to criticize his border strategy. Pritzker called for more federal support, including waiving fees for migrant work permits, additional funding, and coordinated transportation of migrants across the U.S. The Biden administration has approved $1 billion in funds for cities and communities supporting migrants and is working to increase deportations of those who cross the border illegally.
Republican U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace faced criticism after endorsing a Charleston bus project that she had voted against funding. Mace defended her support for the project, stating that she backs anything that benefits the Charleston area. Democrats criticized Mace for touting the funds while opposing the bill that made them possible. Mace's endorsement of the project came under scrutiny during a press conference, where she stressed the importance of federal dollars for infrastructure needs in the Lowcountry.