Policy

US Government Paid $9.5 Billion in Administrative Leave in 2025, GAO Report Shows

A GAO report reveals that the US government spent $9.5 billion on paid administrative leave for federal employees in 2025, marking a 435% increase from 2023. This initiative is linked to efforts aimed at reducing the federal workforce.

Judge Orders Release of Communications Related to NYC Rent Freeze

A judge has ordered City Hall to release communications with the Rent Guidelines Board regarding a rent freeze implemented by Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The ruling aims to determine if there was collusion between the Mayor's office and board members. The decision follows legal challenges from landlords who allege that the board's vote was influenced by Mamdani.

Brooklyn introduces green roof bus stop to combat flooding

A new bus shelter with a green roof has been installed in Brownsville, Brooklyn, to help mitigate flooding and provide shade for commuters. The shelter can absorb up to 16 gallons of rainwater and is part of a broader initiative to enhance urban resilience against climate change. This project follows a notably wet summer in New York City, which experienced significant flooding.

National Park Service Proposes Measures to Mitigate Impact of Planned Trump Arch

The National Park Service has proposed measures to mitigate the impact of President Trump's planned 250-foot arch, which is expected to affect historic sites in Washington, D.C. The memorandum of agreement outlines steps to address construction noise, lighting, and other factors while seeking approval from various preservation offices. The project has faced opposition and is currently subject to a federal lawsuit.

House Votes to Hold Leon Black in Contempt Over Epstein Testimony

The House of Representatives voted to hold Leon Black in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with subpoenas related to Jeffrey Epstein. Black, who has faced scrutiny for his ties to Epstein, filed a lawsuit challenging the subpoenas, claiming they were invalid. The matter will now be sent to the Department of Justice for potential criminal prosecution.

Federal Appeals Court Overturns EPA Ban on Methylene Chloride

A federal appeals court has overturned an EPA rule banning most uses of methylene chloride, a chemical identified as likely carcinogenic to humans. This decision may impact future regulations and public health considerations regarding the chemical.

Israel and Morocco Upgrade Diplomatic Relations Amid Regional Security Concerns

Israel and Morocco have agreed to elevate their diplomatic relations by establishing full embassies and exchanging ambassadors, as confirmed during a trilateral meeting in New York on September 16, 2026. This agreement is part of the ongoing normalization efforts initiated by the Abraham Accords, which aim to enhance cooperation in various sectors and address regional security threats, particularly from Iran-backed groups.

Air Force's Refueler Modernization Efforts Expected to Span Decades

The U.S. Air Force's modernization of its refueler aircraft is expected to take decades, requiring the maintenance of both legacy and newer models. The KC-135 Stratotanker, in service since 1956, will continue to be part of the fleet alongside the newer KC-46A aircraft, which has faced production delays. The Air Force reported having 373 KC-135s and 104 KC-46As as of March 2026.

Texas Family Sues Attorney General Ken Paxton Following Mother's Death Linked to Abortion Restrictions

The family of Tierra Walker, a Texas woman who died from pregnancy complications after being denied an abortion, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Attorney General Ken Paxton and her medical team. The lawsuit claims that the enforcement of Texas's strict abortion laws contributed to Walker's death, which her family argues was preventable. Medical professionals have stated that her death should not have occurred given her medical history and condition.

U.S. Intelligence Reports Concerns Over Potential Chinese Theft Related to F-35 Jet Sales to Saudi Arabia

U.S. intelligence officials have expressed concerns about the risk of Chinese theft of technology associated with the sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia. This sale is part of a longstanding military partnership between the two nations, with Saudi Arabia being the largest buyer of U.S. defense equipment.

Lawsuit Claims Texas Abortion Ban Contributed to Pregnant Woman's Death

A lawsuit claims that the Texas abortion ban contributed to the death of Tierra Walker by creating a climate of fear among doctors that hindered necessary medical interventions. The case raises questions about the impact of state abortion laws on healthcare practices.

Committee Investigating Epstein Holds Leon Black in Contempt of Congress

Leon Black, a billionaire investor, did not appear for a deposition before the committee investigating Jeffrey Epstein. The Department of Justice will decide whether to pursue criminal charges against him.

First Circuit Reviews Trump's Efforts to Reduce Federal Agencies

The First Circuit Court of Appeals reviewed the Trump administration's appeal to overturn a ruling that blocked the reduction of three federal agencies. The administration's executive order aimed to minimize the size and workforce of these agencies, which was challenged by a coalition of Democratic-led states. The court has not yet indicated when it will issue a ruling.

US Government Delays AI Regulation Efforts Amid Political Divisions

Discussions on AI regulation in Washington have intensified, but there is currently no consensus on measures that could gain support from the White House or Congress. Efforts to establish a regulatory body have stalled, and several bills introduced in Congress face significant political hurdles. The likelihood of passing any legislation before the midterm elections remains low.

Senate Agriculture Committee Advances Farm Bill 2.0

The Senate Agriculture Committee has advanced "Farm Bill 2.0" with a 12-11 vote along party lines. The advancement occurred following Senator Mitch McConnell's return to Congress, despite opposition from Democratic members.

US Removes Venezuela from Drug Trafficking List

The Trump administration has removed Venezuela from its list of countries failing to combat illegal drug trafficking, citing progress since the removal of Nicolas Maduro. The administration is also considering similar actions for Colombia and Bolivia, while redirecting $52 million in military funding towards Latin America.

House Republican Leadership Meeting Becomes Contentious

A meeting among House Republican leadership on September 16, 2026, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, became highly contentious as members debated a bill to suspend the gas tax. The discussion escalated into shouting, with Rep. Andy Harris expressing frustration and leaving the meeting after a confrontation with Rep. Sam Graves. The incident highlights ongoing tensions within the House, contributing to frequent cancellations of votes.

Senate Begins Debate on Protect College Sports Act

The Senate has initiated debate on the Protect College Sports Act following a bipartisan vote. The bill seeks to implement regulations in collegiate sports.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Blocks $2.8 Billion Arms Sale to Israel

Gregory Meeks, the chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has blocked a $2.8 billion arms sale to Israel that includes 40,000 one-ton bombs. The decision reflects concerns over the potential impact on civilian lives.

Analysis Reveals $177 Billion in Federal Grants Cut or Frozen by Trump Administration