Ten Democratic senators have requested Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to clarify the status of the initiative to feature Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill, following his comments that Treasury is 'not at present' planning to proceed. The senators are urging Bessent to reconsider and provide a briefing on the matter. They also noted that Treasury has prepared a design for a $250 bill featuring former President Donald Trump.
Trump indicated he may withdraw the nomination of Todd Blanche for attorney general until Republican senators seeking concessions leave office next year. He stated he would keep Blanche as acting attorney general until Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis are no longer in office. Cornyn and Tillis have requested written assurances regarding the termination of the 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' and clarification on a tax immunity deal Trump secured.
The Senate Judiciary Committee postponed a vote on Blanche's nomination. Meanwhile, a Senate committee advanced Dr. Erica Schwartz's nomination to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), despite concerns about her ability to resist political pressure.
In international news, tensions between the U.S. and Iran have escalated, with Saudi Arabia increasing military actions against Iranian proxies. The situation remains uncertain as the U.S. administration has fluctuated between seeking a diplomatic resolution and employing aggressive rhetoric.
Trump claimed that tariffs have benefited car companies like General Motors, although many metrics suggest that tariffs have negatively impacted businesses and contributed to inflation. This economic situation may affect Trump's approval ratings ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
Additionally, FIFA President Gianni Infantino's plan to sell a stake in World Cup revenue to private investors has faced growing opposition, with concerns raised by the Asian Football Confederation regarding the implications for continental football.