Court ruling challenges administration's intelligence overhaul
A federal court ordered the Trump administration on Thursday to rehire intelligence officers who were dismissed earlier this year, ruling that the mass firings violated civil service protections. The decision represents a legal blow to the administration's push to reshape the intelligence community, which Trump has long criticized as part of the "deep state."
Pentagon bill stalls amid Republican infighting
Separately, a Republican blockade derailed a Pentagon policy bill and other legislation as the far-right pressed for action on a voting bill championed by President Trump. The internal party divisions have paralyzed parts of the legislative agenda just as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary.
Birthright citizenship and immigration battles continue
The Supreme Court recently upheld birthright citizenship in a major ruling, while four court rulings are challenging mandatory detention policies central to Trump's immigration strategy. ICE arrests have increased sharply, marking a turn in enforcement priorities.