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Scientists Express Outrage Over President Trump's $1 Trillion Grant Cuts Impacting Research

Scientists Express Outrage Over President Trump's $1 Trillion Grant Cuts Impacting Research

President Trump's administration has proposed a significant overhaul of the federal grant-making process, potentially affecting nearly $1 trillion in funding. This proposal, if enacted, would place the control of grant distribution into the hands of political appointees, sparking widespread concern among scientists and researchers. Harvard professor Nancy Krieger, whose $1 million NIH grant was abruptly canceled, exemplifies the chaos and uncertainty faced by the scientific community. The proposed changes have drawn nearly 500,000 public comments, with the vast majority opposing the rule. Critics argue that the changes could undermine scientific research and public health initiatives by prioritizing political agendas over scientific merit.
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House to Consider Continuing Resolution to Extend Federal Funding Amid Fiscal Uncertainty

House to Consider Continuing Resolution to Extend Federal Funding Amid Fiscal Uncertainty

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to consider a continuing resolution (CR) this week to extend funding for federal programs until December 4. This measure is intended to prevent a government shutdown as Congress has not finalized the fiscal year 2027 spending bills. The CR would maintain funding at current levels, allowing more time for negotiations. House Democrats, led by Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, are awaiting a list of 'anomalies' from the White House, which would identify programs needing short-term funding boosts. The Senate is also preparing a CR, with ongoing debates over spending priorities, particularly between defense and non-defense allocations.
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Gen Z Socialist Melat Kiros Advocates for More Immigrants in U.S. Office to Shift Foreign Policy

Gen Z Socialist Melat Kiros Advocates for More Immigrants in U.S. Office to Shift Foreign Policy

Melat Kiros, an Ethiopian-born Ph.D. student and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, has called for increased representation of immigrants in U.S. political offices. Kiros, who recently defeated 15-term incumbent Diana DeGette in Colorado's Democratic primary, argues that more immigrants in office could challenge America's 'exploitative' role on the global stage. Speaking at a Wa-Ela Tigray diaspora gathering, Kiros emphasized the need for individuals with heritage from the global south to influence U.S. foreign policy. She has also advocated for ending U.S. aid to Israel, abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and introducing universal healthcare. Kiros gained attention after being fired from a New York law firm for her controversial views on Israel, which she expressed in an open letter.
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Trump to seek Congress approval for Saudi Arabia nuclear energy pact that lacks safeguards, sources say

Trump to seek Congress approval for Saudi Arabia nuclear energy pact that lacks safeguards, sources say

By Timothy Gardner WASHINGTON, July 21 (Reuters) - The Trump administration plans to submit to Congress a pact with Saudi Arabia to share nuclear power technology that does not include safeguards the U.S. has long said would stop materials being used in nuclear weapons programs, two sources told
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IFIC Survey Reveals Growing Consumer Awareness of Processed Foods in the U.S.

IFIC Survey Reveals Growing Consumer Awareness of Processed Foods in the U.S.

The International Food Information Council (IFIC) has released its Food & Health Survey, highlighting a significant increase in American consumers' familiarity with processed food terms, particularly 'ultra-processed.' The survey, conducted online with 3,005 participants from March 22 to April 8, 2026, shows that 52% of respondents are now familiar with the term 'ultra-processed,' up from 44% the previous year. The survey also indicates a shift in consumer priorities, with a growing emphasis on clean label terms and convenience. The new inverted food pyramid introduced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services has been seen by 83% of respondents, reflecting a broader awareness of dietary guidelines.
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Republicans Support President Trump's Legal Justification for Iran Conflict Continuation

Republicans Support President Trump's Legal Justification for Iran Conflict Continuation

Republicans are largely supporting President Trump's legal rationale for continuing military operations in Iran without congressional approval. The administration argues that a ceasefire reset the War Powers Resolution's 90-day clock, allowing for continued military action without new congressional authorization. This position has been met with criticism from Democrats, who view it as an attempt to bypass Congress. Despite this, many Republicans, including Sen. Josh Hawley and Rep. Jeff Van Drew, have expressed support for the administration's approach, emphasizing the need to conclude the conflict. The White House recently informed Congress of renewed military actions against Iran, which have resulted in additional U.S. service member casualties.
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Democrats' Response to ICE Shootings Criticized for Lack of Action

Democrats' Response to ICE Shootings Criticized for Lack of Action

Democrats in Congress have been criticized for their muted response to the fatal shootings of two immigrant men by ICE agents in Maine and Texas. The incidents involved Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero and Lorenzo Salgado Araujo. Despite previous calls to abolish or restrict ICE following similar incidents involving U.S. citizens, the current response has been less vigorous. Representative Delia Ramirez expressed concern over the lack of action, suggesting that racial factors might influence the level of political outrage. The Melt ICE Act, introduced by Ramirez, aims to end DHS funding for immigrant detention but has not gained significant traction.
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Hegseth is facing questions from senators over funding for the Iran war

Hegseth is facing questions from senators over funding for the Iran war

Senators launched pointed remarks in a hearing with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the U.S. war against Iran
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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Seeks $350 Billion Funding Amid Iran Conflict

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Seeks $350 Billion Funding Amid Iran Conflict

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to present a request for a $350 billion funding increase to Congress. This request comes as tensions with Iran escalate, with no resolution in sight. The funding is intended to bolster military capabilities and readiness in response to the ongoing conflict. Hegseth's appearance on Capitol Hill underscores the administration's focus on addressing international security threats and ensuring the U.S. military is adequately equipped to handle emerging challenges.
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Texas Leads U.S. in Farm Numbers Amid Nationwide Decline in Agriculture

Texas Leads U.S. in Farm Numbers Amid Nationwide Decline in Agriculture

According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, Texas remains the state with the highest number of farms in the U.S., totaling 230,662. This figure represents nearly 12% of all farms in the country. Despite a nationwide decline in the number of farms, Texas continues to dominate due to its vast land area and diverse agricultural activities, including livestock, cotton, and dairy. The census also highlights a broader trend of consolidation in the agricultural sector, with fewer, larger farms accounting for a significant portion of agricultural production. The total number of farms in the U.S. has decreased by about 7% since 2017, reaching the lowest level on record.
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Genetically Engineered Animals: A Controversial Solution for Factory Farms

Genetically Engineered Animals: A Controversial Solution for Factory Farms

The U.S. is witnessing a debate over the use of genetically engineered animals in factory farms. These animals are designed to withstand harsh conditions typical of industrial agriculture, such as overcrowding and disease. Proponents argue that genetic engineering can address challenges in livestock production, but critics warn it perpetuates harmful farming practices. The 'Save Our Bacon Act' in the Farm Bill, which could undermine state animal welfare laws, is also under scrutiny.
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Congress Targets Organized Retail Crime with New Legislation

Congress Targets Organized Retail Crime with New Legislation

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025, which aims to address the growing issue of organized retail crime involving illegally obtained goods. This legislation seeks to create a coordinated federal response to such crimes and expand federal money-laundering laws to include offenses involving prepaid cards and gift certificates. The act comes in response to a rise in sophisticated retail crime schemes, including the use of stolen card data loaded into phone wallets for fraudulent purchases. Law enforcement officials estimate that these organized crime groups may be generating up to $1 billion annually through such activities.