President Trump brushed off a question about journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s 2018 killing while meeting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House on Tuesday. It was the crown prince’s first U.S. visit since Khashoggi’s death, which led to his isolation internationally. Trump called Khashoggi “extremely controversial” and added “things happen.” (Story URL)
The Senate is prepared to swiftly pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act once it arrives from the House, where it passed easily. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer secured unanimous consent to advance the bill without changes or delay. The measure would require the Justice Department to release all unclassified records tied to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days of becoming law. (Story URL)
A federal court has barred Texas from using its newly drawn congressional map in the 2026 elections. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown wrote the 2-1 decision, ordering the state to revert to its 2021 district lines. The panel found that challengers were likely to prove the 2025 map was an unconstitutional racial gerrymander. Gov. Greg Abbott said Texas will appeal to the Supreme Court. (Story URL)
The Department of Education announced six new interagency agreements Tuesday, moving several offices to other federal agencies. The plan advances President Trump’s goal of closing the department and shifting education oversight to the states. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon called the move a “major step forward” and said it aims to “cut through layers of red tape in Washington.” (Story URL)
A new LendingTree analysis finds that child care expenses for two children now exceed rent in 85 of the nation’s largest metro areas. Families in Omaha, Milwaukee, and Buffalo face the steepest costs, paying more than twice their average rent for care of an infant and a 4-year-old. Nationwide, full-time infant care averages $1,282 a month, while care for two children costs about $2,252. (Story URL)
