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Senate Approves $9 B Cuts to Foreign Aid & Public Broadcasting:The U.S. Senate, in a 51–48 vote on July 17, approved a rescissions bill that reduces about $8 B in foreign aid and $1.1 B in funding for public broadcasters (PBS and NPR). Supporters emphasize fiscal discipline and redirecting resources domestically. Critics caution that these cuts may weaken America’s global influence and reduce access to public-media information.

Source 1: CNN, Source 2:  Fox News

NATO Secretary-General Rutte Visits Washington Amid Ukraine Support Talks: NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte visited Washington D.C. to meet with President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, and Secretary of Defense Hegseth. Discussions focused on U.S. military assistance to Ukraine, including the potential provision of Patriot missile systems. While President Trump noted that current weaponry reflects Biden-era authorizations, Rutte emphasized allied unity and coordination in support of Ukraine’s defense. The meeting signals ongoing deliberations within NATO regarding U.S. involvement and burden-sharing in the conflict.

Source 1: CBS News, Source 2: New York Post

Markets React to Discussion of Replacing Fed Chair Powell: U.S. financial markets showed volatility after President Trump suggested he might replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. The dollar weakened and Treasury yields tiked upward before markets stabilized once Trump clarified he had no immediate intention. Analysts warned that even talk of altering leadership at the Fed can undermine confidence in the central bank’s independence.

Source 1: Reuters, Source 2:  Newsmax

Democrat Adelita Grijalva won Tuesday’s primary for Arizona’s 7th special congressional district. This district, which covers Yuma in the southwest to Tucson, was previously represented by Raul Grijalva, the candidate’s father before his passing in March. Grijalva will now run in the September general election against Daniel Butierrez, the Republican nominee.

Republican Blaise Ingoglia was appointed Wednesday to be the next Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Florida, succeeding Representative Jimmy Patronis. Appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the former state senator will now oversee the finances of the state, collecting revenue, handling fires and arson, auditing state agencies, among other responsibilities.

This week, there was  a special primary congressional election in Arizona. Click on the link below to view the results:

• Arizona Special Congressional Primary Election, District 7

(Glossary)

Senate Nomination Confirmed: A formal action by the U.S. Senate to approve a presidential nominee for a federal position, such as a cabinet role, judicial seat, or agency leadership. Confirmation typically follows committee review and a floor vote. A simple majority is required for most confirmations. Once confirmed, the nominee is officially appointed to the position and may begin serving, subject to any additional swearing-in or onboarding procedures.

🎉 This Week’s Quiz Spotlight!

📍 A L Faustino – Texas

📍 Colette – North Carolina

📍 Mary Ellen Williams – Hawaii