Trump to federalize 300 members of the Illinois National Guard ahead of expected deployment to Democratic state

During a recent meeting at the White House, Hakeem Jeffries humorously pointed out a 'Trump 2028' hat worn by JD Vance, asking him if he had a problem with it. This light-hearted moment amidst serious discussions highlights the often unexpected nature of political interactions and the ongoing relevance of Trump in future elections.

The U.S. is considering minting a coin featuring Donald Trump's likeness, despite a law he signed that prohibits collectibles with similar images. The proposed design references an assassination attempt during his 2024 presidential campaign and includes the phrase 'FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT.' This development raises questions about the intersection of politics and currency, as well as the implications of using a controversial figure's image in this way.

In a controversial move, President Trump has deployed National Guard troops to Illinois, despite Governor JB Pritzker's strong objections, labeling the action as 'un-American.' This escalation of military presence in Democrat-led cities raises significant concerns about federal overreach and the implications for state governance. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities, particularly in politically divided regions.

Trade and legal experts are estimating that there is an 80% chance the Supreme Court will rule against former President Trump's global tariffs. This prediction is significant as it highlights the unpredictability of the justices appointed by Trump, who do not necessarily align with his policies. The outcome could have major implications for international trade and economic relations.

Farm bankruptcies are on the rise, with 93 filings in the second quarter, reflecting a troubling trend as low crop prices continue to impact farmers. This surge in bankruptcies, nearly double from last year, highlights the financial struggles within the agricultural sector. The situation has caught the attention of former President Trump, who is considering a bailout of up to $14 billion to support struggling farmers. This development is crucial as it underscores the challenges faced by the farming community and the potential government intervention needed to stabilize the industry.

Former President Trump has urged Hamas to act swiftly in releasing hostages as part of his proposed peace plan, which has gained traction with both Israel and Hamas agreeing to certain aspects. This development is significant as it highlights a potential pathway to de-escalate the ongoing conflict and restore stability in the region, reflecting a rare moment of cooperation amidst the turmoil.

Israel is shifting to a defensive-only stance in Gaza, coinciding with discussions led by a senior Egyptian official about the potential release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli detention. This development is significant as it may pave the way for a more peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts in addressing humanitarian concerns.

The mayor of Pohang, South Korea, has taken a bold step by protesting outside the White House against President Trump's tariffs, which have severely impacted the local steel industry. This situation highlights the broader consequences of U.S. trade policies on international markets, particularly for cities like Pohang and Pittsburgh that are deeply rooted in steel production. As these tariffs continue to strain local economies, the mayor's actions underscore the urgent need for dialogue and reconsideration of such policies.

Centrist Republicans are expressing concern over former President Trump's strategy that could lead to a government shutdown. They warn that this approach may deepen partisan divides and hinder effective governance. This matters because a shutdown could disrupt essential services and impact millions of Americans, highlighting the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party.

Former President Trump recently expressed confidence that the U.S. can overcome its staggering $37 trillion debt through economic growth. He argues that current growth rates make the debt manageable. However, financial expert Ray Dalio warns that this perspective may be overly optimistic, suggesting that the complexities of debt cycles could complicate such a straightforward solution. This discussion is crucial as it highlights differing views on economic recovery and fiscal responsibility, impacting policy decisions and public perception.

President Trump is leveraging the ongoing government shutdown to target Democratic-run cities and states by cutting or pausing billions in funding. This includes withholding funds for critical infrastructure projects like the new Hudson River tunnel connecting New York City and New Jersey. This move raises concerns about the political implications of using federal funding as a weapon, potentially impacting essential services and projects in these areas.

The recent budget bill signed by President Trump has suspended efforts to enroll more low-income older Americans in programs designed to help them manage rising health care costs. This is concerning as it directly impacts the financial stability of retirees who are already struggling to make ends meet. With healthcare expenses on the rise, losing access to these assistance programs could leave many vulnerable seniors without the support they need.

Sanae Takaichi's unexpected win in Japan's ruling party leadership election is set to bolster the country's stock market, providing a much-needed boost for investors. However, this victory may also lead to a decline in the yen and long-term government bonds as the market adjusts to the pro-stimulus policies she is expected to implement. This shift is significant as it reflects the government's commitment to economic growth, which could have broader implications for both domestic and international markets.

Sanae Takaichi is poised to become Japan's first female premier, marking a significant milestone in the country's political landscape. Her leadership could inspire a new generation of women in politics and challenge traditional gender roles in a nation where female representation has been historically low. This development is not just a win for Takaichi but also a step forward for gender equality in Japan.

This week in the market, major players like Intel, Nvidia, and Electronic Arts made headlines, reflecting the ongoing trends and shifts in the tech and gaming sectors. Understanding these developments is crucial for investors and enthusiasts alike, as they can influence market dynamics and investment strategies.

Jarace Walker is stepping into his third season with the Indiana Pacers feeling more prepared than ever. After a tough loss in the NBA Finals last season, he's eager to make a significant impact this year. His determination and readiness could be key for the Pacers as they aim for success, making this season one to watch for fans and analysts alike.

Today's Wordle #1569 offers players a fun challenge with expert hints and clues to enhance their guessing skills. This game not only entertains but also sharpens cognitive abilities, making it a popular daily ritual for many. Engaging with Wordle can foster a sense of community as players share their experiences and strategies.

Universal Pictures is taking a firm stance on the budget for the final Fast & Furious movie, stating that it will only proceed if costs are reduced to $200 million. This decision comes after the studio invested a staggering $1.1 billion in the last three films of the franchise. This move highlights the financial pressures in Hollywood and the need for studios to manage budgets more effectively, especially for blockbuster franchises.