Trump Administration Broadly Raises Tariffs, Targeting Multiple Countries

The Trump administration enacted sweeping increases in import tariffs—which now average around 18.3%, levels not seen since 1934—affecting over 100 countries. Specific measures include 50% tariffs on goods from India and Canada and 10–20% on goods from the EU, Japan, South Korea, and others. The administration cited national manufacturing goals; critics warn of inflation and supply‑chain disruptions. 

Simultaneously, China‑Ukraine diplomatic developments continued, with the U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff meeting Putin amid ongoing war‑pressure dynamics.

Source 1: Breitbart, Source 2:  CNN

Democrats Flee Texas to Block GOP Redistricting, Prompting Counter‑Moves in Blue States

In Texas, over 50 Democratic state legislators departed the state to deny quorum, preventing a GOP‑backed congressional redistricting plan. Texas authorities responded by issuing civil arrest warrants—largely symbolic—targeting absent legislators. Blue‑state Democrats, including in New York and California, responded by considering or advancing similar partisan redistricting efforts, challenging independent commissions.



Source 1:  POLITICO, Source 2: Fox News

Congress Heads into August Recess Amid Heightened Funding and Nomination Disputes

With Congress now in its August recess, friction over federal funding and Trump administration nominations is intensifying. House Republicans are pushing sharp non‑defense spending cuts, while the Senate favors more bipartisan approaches. At the same time, Republicans are frustrated by Senate Democrats’ slow pace in confirming nominees—raising the possibility of procedural rule changes.



Source 1: AP News, Source 2:  PBS News

Vote Smart provides easy access to congressional and state voting records and maintains a collection of key votes grouped by issue. Vote Smart uses the following criteria to select key votes:

1. The vote should be helpful in portraying how a member stands on a particular issue.
2. The vote should be clear for any person to understand.
3. The vote has received media attention.
4. The vote was passed or defeated by a very close margin.