Trump Commutes Ex-Rep. Santos' Fraud Sentence
Former U.S. Rep. George Santos was sentenced to over seven years in federal prison for fraud and identity theft. President Donald Trump commuted his sentence, citing his guilty plea to deceiving donors and stealing identities to make campaign donations. Trump announced the commutation on social media.
The administration extended a short-term rebate until 2030 and imposed a 25% import tax on medium and heavy-duty trucks. The goal is to boost American manufacturing and protect the auto sector from increased costs due to import taxes. The decision followed discussions with the industry to enhance domestic production competitiveness.
Trump described Santos as a "rogue" and announced the commutation of his sentence on social media. The president expressed good wishes to Santos, stating that many individuals engaging in similar behavior do not face lengthy prison terms. Santos had appealed for fairness and the chance to rebuild his life after facing consequences for his actions.
Ukraine's President Zelenskyy and Trump discussed the ongoing conflict with Russia, with Trump urging both sides to stop the war and let history determine the outcome. Trump had shown impatience with Russian President Putin but appeared to lean towards pressing Ukraine to accept the loss of territory taken by Russia.
A lawsuit was filed against Gov. Bill Lee for deploying troops at Trump's request, violating the state constitution. The lawsuit argues that the deployment was unconstitutional and seeks to challenge the governor's actions. Lee and the state attorney general are named as defendants in the case.
The White House announced discussions with universities to secure federal funding in exchange for commitments aligned with Trump's priorities. The proposal faced rejection from several universities, raising concerns about restrictions on free speech and government control. Critics argue that the compact could limit free speech and grant excessive control to the government.
Trump expressed optimism about more Middle East countries normalizing relations with Israel following the ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. The president believes that Saudi Arabia could join the Abraham Accords, along with other countries, building on the diplomatic and commercial ties established during his first term.
The U.S. blocked a global fee on shipping emissions as the International Maritime Organization meeting concluded without adopting new regulations. The proposed regulations aimed to reduce shipping emissions and set standards for marine fuel, but faced opposition from the U.S. and other nations.
The U.S. military conducted a sixth strike in the Caribbean, targeting a vessel believed to be involved in drug trafficking. The strike resulted in casualties and survivors, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug smuggling in the region.
Former national security adviser John Bolton was released from custody after appearing in court for charges brought against him. Bolton criticized the charges as part of an effort to intimidate opponents, suggesting political motives behind the indictment.
Protests erupted outside an ICE facility in Illinois, leading to arrests and clashes with law enforcement. Demonstrators demanded the release of detainees and criticized the use of tear gas and chemical agents on protesters and journalists.
The federal judiciary announced limited operations due to the government shutdown, affecting court employees who may work without pay or face furloughs. The courts will continue to serve and pay judges, but visitors will be restricted from accessing certain courthouses.
The U.S. administration extended a rebate and imposed an import tax on trucks to promote American manufacturing. The decision followed consultations with the industry to enhance domestic production competitiveness and mitigate the impact of import taxes on the auto sector.