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Axios

Department of Defense Revises List of Recognized Religions, Excludes 'Christian' Label for Mormonism

The Department of Defense has revised its list of recognized religions, eliminating the 'Christian' label for Mormonism after criticism from Utah political leaders. The change follows a significant reduction in the number of recognized religions for military chaplain services. The decision has led to tensions between Latter-day Saints and other Christian groups regarding the classification of their faith.

The Intercept

Congress Considers Permanent Integration of U.S. and Israeli Defense Technology

Congress is discussing a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act that would permanently integrate U.S. and Israeli defense technologies. Section 224, which has faced opposition from some lawmakers, aims to create a framework for collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence and cyberwarfare. Concerns have been raised about the implications of this integration, particularly regarding national security and espionage risks.

Deutsche Welle

Trump Administration to Denaturalize 17 US Citizens

The Trump administration plans to strip citizenship from 17 individuals due to convictions for crimes such as healthcare and wire fraud. This action is noted as a rare move by the Department of Justice.

notus.org

IRS Reassigns IT and HR Staff to Tax Processing Roles Amid Workforce Cuts

The IRS has reassigned IT and HR staff to assist with tax processing due to workforce reductions, resulting in challenges during training and certification. Many employees reported difficulties in adapting to their new roles, and some may face disciplinary action for failing certification exams. The IRS has stated that it will provide additional support to those who need it.

nytimes.com

Historian Gordon S. Wood Passes Away at 92

Gordon S. Wood, a distinguished historian of the American Revolution, passed away at the age of 92 in Providence, Rhode Island. He was known for his influential works, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning "The Radicalism of the American Revolution," and served as a professor emeritus at Brown University. Wood's scholarship significantly shaped the understanding of America's founding figures and events.

cbsnews.com

Survey Indicates Financial Pessimism Among Americans

A Federal Reserve Bank of New York survey shows that 48% of Americans feel worse off financially compared to a year ago, the highest since January 2023. Consumer optimism about future finances has decreased, and rising inflation, particularly due to the Iran conflict, is affecting household budgets and purchasing power.

PBS NewsHour

Senate Meets as Surveillance Program Renewal Faces Challenges

The Senate is meeting to discuss the renewal of a critical surveillance program, which Republicans warn may lapse this week. This situation arises from bipartisan backlash against President Donald Trump's choice to lead the intelligence community.

The Hill

Federal Judge Blocks $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visa Applications

A federal judge has ruled against a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications introduced by the Trump administration. The judge determined that the fee exceeded the administration's authority and violated Congress's power over immigration policy and taxation.

Washington Examiner

D.C. Council Proposes Tax Code Changes to Save $463.6 Million

The D.C. Council, under Chairman Phil Mendelson, has proposed extensive changes to the district's tax code to decouple it from federal tax cuts, aiming to save $463.6 million. The proposal expands on previous recommendations and includes measures to recognize additional revenue for fiscal year 2026. The council is set to discuss the proposals, with a vote scheduled for June 23.

Washington Examiner

Texas Governor Expands Emergency Response to New World Screwworm

Governor Greg Abbott of Texas has expanded the state's emergency response to the New World screwworm, activating the emergency operations center to Level II. The USDA has confirmed four cases of the parasite in Texas, prompting Abbott to mobilize state resources to protect the livestock industry. A sterile fly release technique is being used to manage the outbreak, although there is a critical shortage of sterile flies.

Guardian — US

Federal Judge Rules Trump's $100,000 Fee for H-1B Visas Unlawful

On June 8, 2026, a federal judge ruled that the $100,000 fee for new H-1B visas, imposed by former President Trump, is unlawful. The ruling came from US District Judge Leo Sorokin in Boston and was part of a lawsuit by 20 Democratic state attorneys general.