On Capitol Hill
The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions advanced three nominees from former President Trump. These include Erica Schwartz as the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Keith Sonderling for the secretary of Labor, and Sean Kaufman as assistant secretary for preparedness and response in Health and Human Services.
Committee Chair Bill Cassidy (R-La.) supported all nominees, although he initially had concerns about Kaufman’s past comments on the hepatitis B vaccine. Meanwhile, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), impressed with Schwartz yet opposed her nomination, expressed doubts about her standing up to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Challenges to Confirmation
Republican Senators John Cornyn (Texas) and Thom Tillis (N.C.) stalled the vote on Todd Blanche’s nomination for attorney general. Their concerns revolve around President Trump’s IRS settlement, posing a significant hurdle given the Republican majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Despite Cornyn’s firm stance, he remains open to negotiations with Blanche, as they continue discussions in good faith.
Trump’s Senate Demands
Former President Trump’s demand for the passage of his budget reconciliation bill has not gained traction. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) noted the lack of sufficient Republican support.
Without the required support, these demands have not materialized, creating tensions between Trump and Senate Republicans. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) humorously suggested the creation of a T-shirt expressing opposition to blowing up the filibuster and reconciliations.
Rand Paul and Trump Alliance
Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) has emerged as a surprising ally for Trump, reflecting shifts in their relationship following Rep. Thomas Massie’s primary election loss to a Trump-backed challenger.
At the White House
The Trump administration continues to exert efforts in Iran, prompting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s appeal to Silicon Valley for weapon replenishment. Through a recent meeting with top defense companies, the aim is to counteract dwindling weapon stockpiles.
This marks a shift towards venture-backed solutions as ground troops and drones become less utilized.
Public Perception and RFK Jr.’s New Show
A Politico poll reveals that a majority of MAGA Trump voters could still support a candidate facing accusations of sexual assault or domestic violence.
Meanwhile, RFK Jr. is launching a cooking show featuring affordable meal preparations, adding a creative venture to his profile.
Quick Hits
- Elon Musk revives America PAC for midterm spending.
- Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) shows potential as a cavity treatment.
- The Senate passes a nonbinding resolution against pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell.
Coming Up
The House remains out, while the Senate remains in session. President Trump will make an announcement concerning “Freedom Haulers.”
Senate voting on Trump nominees and other scheduled events capture today’s agenda.
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