Rep. Buddy Carter introduces resolution to strip assignments from NJ Democrats over ICE visit

Rep. Buddy Carter of Georgia has introduced a resolution aimed at stripping three Democratic lawmakers from New Jersey of their committee assignments following their recent visit to an ICE detention facility, NBC News reported.

The resolution names Reps. Rob Menendez, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and LaMonica McIver, who toured the Delaney Hall facility in Newark on Friday. Carter did not specify what part of the visit prompted his action.

House leadership has not indicated whether the resolution will advance to a vote, and the three lawmakers have not publicly responded to it.

Family drops lawsuit over U.S. citizen toddler deported to Honduras

Lawyers for a 2-year-old U.S. citizen who was deported to Honduras with her mother said Tuesday they are withdrawing their lawsuit against the Trump administration. The case had raised legal questions about the government's handling of deportations involving U.S.-born children.

The girl was one of three U.S. citizens deported alongside their Honduran-born mothers. Her family, supported by the ACLU and other advocacy groups, had challenged the deportation as unlawful and coercive. A federal judge in Louisiana had questioned whether the removal followed legal procedures.

Gracie Willis, one of the family's attorneys, said they are stepping back to allow the family to evaluate all their options and focus on the children's well-being. The girl's father had argued that he wanted her to stay in the U.S., while immigration officials claimed the mother requested the girl accompany her to Honduras.

Streamer Hasan Piker says he was detained, questioned at O'Hare after flight

Twitch streamer Hasan Piker says he was detained and interrogated for hours at O'Hare International Airport after arriving from Paris on Sunday. Piker, a U.S.-born citizen and outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, believes he was targeted for his political views.

Piker said U.S. Customs officers questioned him about Trump and Hamas and accused the government of trying to intimidate critics. "That is a direct violation of the First Amendment," he said in a YouTube video posted Monday.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson denied his claims, calling the questioning "routine and lawful." Piker, known online as HasanAbi, has 2.8 million followers on Twitch and 1.6 million on YouTube.

Trump promotes Saudi Arabia as model for Middle East stability

Trump used a major speech in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to lay out his vision for a reimagined Middle East, one focused more on economic growth than U.S.-led efforts to promote democracy. He held up Saudi Arabia as a model of stability and prosperity, contrasting it with the chaos of years past.

Trump announced plans to lift sanctions on Syria and normalize ties with its new leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, who led the overthrow of Bashar Assad. He also highlighted a fragile ceasefire with Yemen's Houthis and extended an olive branch to Iran—though he warned that rejecting talks would trigger renewed pressure.

Trump called on Saudi Arabia to join the Abraham Accords and recognize Israel, and urged Palestinians to reject Hamas' influence to secure a better future.

In Riyadh, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed Trump with royal pageantry, in stark contrast to the subdued reception President Biden received in 2022. The two leaders signed a slew of agreements and teased major U.S.-Saudi investments.

The trip also includes stops in Qatar and the UAE, where Trump is expected to unveil deals tied to energy, AI, and real estate.

Haley slams Trump over plan to accept jet from Qatar

On Tuesday, Nikki Haley criticized Trump for reportedly planning to accept a luxury jet from Qatar to serve as the new Air Force One. In a post on X, the former U.N. ambassador and 2024 Republican primary contender warned that accepting such gifts from foreign governments poses a national security risk.

"If this were Biden, we would be furious," she wrote.

Appeals court keeps block on Florida drag show law

A federal appeals court on Tuesday upheld an injunction blocking Florida's drag show law, ruling that it likely violates the First Amendment.

The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals voted 2-1 to keep the law from being enforced, backing a lower court's finding that it was overly broad and vague. The case was brought by Hamburger Mary's, a restaurant known for its drag performances, which argued the law unlawfully targeted protected expression.

Attorney Melissa Stewart, representing the restaurant, praised the ruling as a win for free speech. But a Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis spokesperson said the court had overstepped, vowing to fight the decision.

The law, passed in 2023, threatens penalties for venues that allow minors to attend what it calls "adult live performances." While drag shows weren't mentioned by name, the law's sponsor confirmed that it was the focus.

20 states sue Trump over immigration-linked grant conditions

A coalition of 20 state attorneys general is suing the Trump administration over federal grant requirements that unlawfully tie funding to immigration enforcement cooperation.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the legal action Tuesday, accusing President Trump of attempting to "bully" state and local governments into using their resources for federal immigration purposes.

The states filed two lawsuits in federal court targeting conditions placed on grants from the Departments of Transportation and Homeland Security. They argue that the funds used for infrastructure, counterterrorism, and emergency response have no link to immigration and that only Congress can set such spending terms.

Bonta called the grant conditions "blatantly illegal" and warned that critical public safety funding is being used as "a bargaining chip."

GOP effort to revoke tax-exempt status from some nonprofits sparks concern

A House Republican effort to help President Donald Trump strip tax-exempt status from nonprofits that he deems to support "terrorism" has sparked serious concerns.

Democrats and nonprofits have warned that it could create an arbitrary standard to punish charities that advocate for issues that don't align with Trump's agenda.

"This seems to just give the president a tool to go after his political enemies and fulfill some of the darker elements of the Project 2025 agenda," said Ryan Costello, policy director at the National Iranian American Council.

Language added to the reconciliation bill from the House Ways and Means Committee, would revoke the status of groups the administration deems "terrorist supporting organizations."

Read the full story by Hannah Parry on Newsweek.

Can Canadian snowbirds legally extend their stay in the US?

A bipartisan bill introduced in Congress would provide lengthier stays to Canadian "snowbirds" who travel to warmer U.S. regions during winter. However, the proposal could be viewed as performative because federal agencies have the upper hand.

Newsweek reached out to the bill's co-authors for comment. U.S. Customs and Border Protection told Newsweek it does not comment on pending legislation.

The relationship between the U.S. and Canada has become turbulent due to tariffs and President Donald Trump's intentions to make his northern neighbor the 51st state. As the Trump administration has cracked down on illegal immigration, it's translated to more protocols endured by Canadians traveling across the border, including more stringent registration requirements that have caused some confusion.

On April 29, Representatives Elise Stefanik, a New York Republican, Laurel Lee, a Florida Republican, and Greg Stanton, an Arizona Democrat, introduced the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act. If successful, it would extend Canadian citizens' duration in the U.S. from 182 days to 240 days annually.

The current 182-day limit applies each year to Canadians without a visa.

Read the full story by Nick Mardowanec on Newsweek.

U.N. welcomes U.S. move to lift Syria sanctions

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday called the U.S. decision to lift sanctions on Syria a "positive development" that could encourage broader investment in the country.

Speaking to reporters, Dujarric said the move will aid in Syria's reconstruction and help its people recover from "more than a decade of conflict" and economic decline. He highlighted the potential for growth in private business and investment.

The United Nations, he added, remains committed to supporting Syria's physical and psychological rebuilding, aiming for a future where "all Syrians of all faiths, of all ethnicities and minorities feel safe and represented."

Trump announces end to U.S. sanctions on Syria at business forum

Trump said Tuesday the United States will lift sanctions on Syria, marking a significant reversal of long-standing policy during the country's years-long civil war under former leader Bashar al-Assad.

"I will be ordering the cessation of sanctions against Syria in order to give them a chance at greatness," Trump said at a business forum, receiving applause from the audience. He added that the move followed discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The president acknowledged that the sanctions were "brutal and crippling" but said they had fulfilled their purpose. "Now is Syria's time to shine," Trump said.

Assad fled the country in December. Syria's interim leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, previously headed the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which remains designated a terrorist organization by the U.S.

Trump had hinted at lifting the sanctions earlier this week but made it official during his Tuesday remarks.

Trump calls situation in Persian Gulf a 'disaster,' suggests renaming effort

Trump on Tuesday referred to the situation in the Persian Gulf as a "disaster" and reignited controversy over its name during remarks at a U.S.-Saudi investment forum in Riyadh.

"There could be no sharper contrast with the path you have pursued on the Arabian Peninsula than the disaster unfolding right across in the Gulf of Iran," Trump said. "Think of that. They wanted to name it that. I said they're not going to let them do that."

Trump's comments hint at an ongoing internal discussion in his administration about officially adopting the name "Gulf of Arabia" or "Arabian Gulf" instead of the historically recognized "Persian Gulf," CNN has previously reported.

Arab states have long supported the name change to reflect regional identity, while Iran has pushed back, insisting on the traditional name. Trump's remarks suggest his administration may be preparing to side with Arab allies on the issue, though no formal change has been announced.

Sean Penn gives Donald Trump new nickname on podcast

Actor Sean Penn gave Trump a new nickname during a podcast appearance this week, calling him "the tough guy who never was."

Penn, 64, commented on Tuesday's episode of The Louis Theroux Podcast, where he criticized Trump's persona and leadership style. "The tough guy who never was," Penn said of the 78-year-old president.

Trump's team has not responded to a request for comment from Newsweek.

Since returning to office in January, Trump has issued dozens of executive orders, including ending federal DEI programs and withdrawing from the World Health Organization. Penn, known for his humanitarian work in Haiti and elsewhere, has long been one of Trump's most vocal celebrity critics.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka again visits detention center where he was arrested

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka briefly returned Tuesday to the gates of the federal immigration detention center where he was arrested last week on trespassing charges. According to NJ.com, the visit lasted around half an hour, but Baraka did not attempt to enter the Delaney Hall facility again.

Baraka, a Democrat in New Jersey's June 10 gubernatorial primary, was arrested Friday after trying to join three members of Congress—Reps. Robert Menendez, LaMonica McIver, and Bonnie Watson Coleman, who were seeking entry to the facility. Baraka has denied the trespassing charge and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.

It remains unclear what distinguished his Tuesday appearance from the prior incident. Baraka has maintained he was not on private property during either visit. The U.S. attorney's office, however, accused him of trespassing again.

Video of the Friday altercation showed a federal official denying Baraka entry, stating, "You are not a Congress member." Moments later, ICE agents arrested him after he had stepped back to the public side of the gate.

Delaney Hall, operated by private prison contractor Geo Group, received a 15-year, $1 billion federal contract in February to house immigration detainees, drawing criticism from Baraka and others opposed to Trump's immigration policies.

Legal questions over Trump's foreign profits remain unresolved as accusations persist

Accusations that Trump unlawfully benefited from foreign entities resurfaced throughout his presidency, particularly concerning the emoluments clauses of the U.S. Constitution, NBC News reports. These anticorruption provisions are designed to prevent presidents from accepting gifts or payments from foreign officials or U.S. states. However, the legal question surrounding whether Trump violated these clauses remains unresolved.

During his first term, lawsuits accused Trump of profiting from foreign sources through his ownership of the Trump International Hotel in Washington, where foreign and domestic guests with business before the administration would stay. Despite these claims, the legal proceedings faced significant challenges. A lawsuit filed by members of Congress was dismissed due to lack of standing, and the Supreme Court declined to hear it in October 2020.

Two other cases, filed by the state of Maryland and the District of Columbia, as well as by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, made it further in court but were rendered moot after Trump left office. The Supreme Court did not rule on the cases, wiping out previous appeals court decisions that had been unfavorable to Trump.

As a result, any new litigation over Trump's potential foreign profits during his second term would start from scratch, with no Supreme Court precedent to guide future cases. Legal experts worry this could set a dangerous precedent, allowing future presidents to exploit their power for personal gain.

Trump cuts additional $450 million in federal grants to Harvard amid ongoing clash

Trump's administration is slashing another $450 million in federal grants to Harvard University, escalating a standoff over alleged liberal bias and antisemitism on campus. The move comes just a day after Harvard pushed back on the government's claims, calling them politically motivated and unfounded.

A letter sent Tuesday by a federal antisemitism task force said eight federal agencies would halt funding, adding to the $2.2 billion already frozen. The letter accused Harvard of becoming a "breeding ground for virtue signaling and discrimination" and said university leaders had "forfeited the school's claim to taxpayer support."

The Trump administration has demanded broad reforms from Harvard, including changes to leadership, admissions policies, and ideological diversity. It has also threatened the university's tax-exempt status and its ability to host foreign students.

Harvard, which is suing to block the freeze, has denied the allegations. President Alan Garber said the university complies with federal law and called the sanctions an unlawful overreach.

Trump to greet Syria's President al-Sharaa in Riyadh, White House says

According to a White House official, per CNN, Trump is expected to exchange an informal greeting with Syria's President Ahmad al-Sharaa during his visit to Riyadh on Wednesday. The interaction, described by the administration as simply a "hello," would be the first known engagement between the two leaders.

The brief encounter, first reported by Axios, comes amid renewed hopes in Damascus that the U.S. might ease sanctions imposed after years of civil war and political isolation. The Assad regime collapsed during President Joe Biden's term in December, paving the way for Syria's new leadership under al-Sharaa.

While no formal talks are scheduled, the greeting is viewed as a symbolic moment that could signal a shift in U.S.-Syria relations under Trump's renewed presidency.

Inflation slows in April despite new tariffs, but price hikes still expected

Inflation eased for the third straight month in April, according to new data from the Labor Department, even after some of President Donald Trump's tariffs took effect. Consumer prices rose 2.3% from a year earlier, down from 2.4% in March, marking the slowest increase in more than four years.

Prices ticked up 0.2% monthly after dipping 0.1% in March—the first monthly drop in five years. Grocery prices fell 0.4%, offering some relief to consumers. Egg prices dropped more than 12%, remaining nearly 50% higher than a year ago.

Despite the easing, economists warn that the full impact of the tariffs, particularly a 10% import tax that began in early April, won't show up in inflation data until summer. Businesses stockpiled goods ahead of the tariffs, delaying price hikes, but some increases are already surfacing in categories like computers, toys, and baby products.

Core prices, which exclude food and energy, remained stable with a 2.8% annual increase. But with average tariffs now at roughly 18%—the highest in 90 years—many companies, including Mattel, Stanley Black & Decker, and Procter & Gamble, say more price increases are coming.

While Trump has promoted tariffs as a tool for economic growth, economists say the duties may slow growth and increase household costs. The Yale Budget Lab estimates that the average American household could spend $2,800 more this year due to the current tariff structure.

Biden's routine physical reveals prostate nodule, further evaluation needed

Former President Joe Biden's routine physical exam revealed a small nodule in his prostate, a spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday. The finding "necessitated further evaluation," though details about whether that examination has been completed or its results were not disclosed.

The detection of a nodule in the prostate typically leads to additional tests by a urologist to rule out prostate cancer. Biden, 81, has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding his age and health, with some Democratic leaders urging him to reconsider his 2024 reelection bid after a difficult debate performance last year.

Biden has consistently brushed aside concerns about his age, attributing criticisms to certain party leaders and contributors. In February 2023, he had a basal cell carcinoma removed from his chest, and in November 2021, he underwent a procedure to remove a benign colon polyp.

Iran prepares forces for war as doubt hangs over US nuclear talks

Iran's army chief of staff said the Islamic Republic's armed forces are at peak combat and intelligence readiness, warning that while enemies may start a conflict, Iran will decide how and where it ends, according to state news agency IRNA.

Newsweek has reached out to the U.S. Department of State for comment.

Iran and the United States concluded a tense fourth round of nuclear negotiations on Sunday in Oman, with President Donald Trump threatening military action if a deal is not reached. The talks seek to revive diplomacy after Trump's exit from the 2015 nuclear deal. With Iran still enriching uranium to 60% and Israel threatening strikes to prevent it getting atomic weapons, pressure is mounting to prevent conflict.

Read the full story by Amira El-Fekki on Newsweek.

El-Gamal: Trump's Gulf visit marks Middle East reset, isolates Netanyahu

On CNN's Early Start, former Pentagon advisor Jasmine El-Gamal joined anchor Rahel Solomon to break down the implications of President Donald Trump's recent visit to the Gulf states, calling it a significant shift in U.S. policy and regional dynamics.

El-Gamal argued that the visit signals a clear message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who she said is now "out of step" with the direction of U.S.-Arab relations. "There couldn't be a stronger message... you're out of step with us," she said, noting the growing closeness between Washington and Gulf nations.

She also described the moment as a "reset" of the U.S. relationship with the Middle East, shifting away from focusing on terrorism and conflict toward mutual economic opportunity. "This is now a reset in terms of that vision," she said, predicting the trip would have "huge ripple effects" across the region.

El-Gamal added that Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman view each other as "visionaries" who want to move the region toward prosperity. "They want to make deals," she said.

Trump secures $600 billion investment commitment from Saudi Arabia

Trump announced a historic $600 billion investment commitment from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, marking a major milestone in U.S.-Saudi economic relations. The agreement, celebrated during Trump's visit to Riyadh, includes a broad range of deals focused on defense, energy, technology, infrastructure, and healthcare.

Among the key deals: DataVolt plans to invest $20 billion in U.S. data centers and energy infrastructure, while major American tech firms like Google, Oracle, and Salesforce will work jointly with Saudi partners on $80 billion in technology ventures. Iconic U.S. companies will also help build major Saudi infrastructure projects, generating $2 billion in services exports.

The announcement also includes a nearly $142 billion defense agreement—the largest in U.S. history—covering air, land, sea, and communications systems and training for Saudi armed forces. Additional agreements aim to expand energy, mining, space, healthcare, and transportation cooperation.

Trump called the deals a new era of partnership, framing them as part of his broader "America First" economic strategy. The administration says the agreements will support U.S. jobs, expand trade, and deepen strategic ties between the two nations.

Trump administration signs multiple new agreements with Saudi Arabia

The Trump administration signed several new agreements with Saudi Arabia on Tuesday as Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized strengthening ties between their governments.

At a signing ceremony inside Riyadh's Royal Court, officials finalized a series of memoranda of understanding and letters of intent across the military, health, and judicial sectors. Several agreements focused on bolstering Saudi Arabia's military through training, maintenance support, and medical development for its armed forces.

The countries also agreed on increased cooperation between customs agencies, joint medical research into infectious diseases, and new partnerships involving the FBI and Saudi Interior Ministry. The deals reflect Crown Prince Mohammed's ongoing effort to position himself as a key U.S. ally.

Trump faces legal pushback over emergency tariffs without Congress

President Donald Trump faces mounting legal challenges over his sweeping tariffs, imposed under a national emergency without congressional approval. On Tuesday, a three-judge panel at the U.S. Court of International Trade heard the first of at least seven lawsuits arguing that Trump overstepped his authority by invoking the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEPPA) to justify tariffs on nearly every country.

The president imposed the tariffs on April 2 — what he called "Liberation Day" — setting a 10% baseline and up to 50% on countries with significant trade surpluses with the U.S. Critics, including small business owners and trade experts, say trade deficits don't constitute an emergency and that IEPPA doesn't authorize tariffs.

Legal experts believe the fight may reach the Supreme Court, where it could test the limits of executive power. Meanwhile, legislation aimed at reining in presidential tariff powers is stalled in Congress, and affected businesses are scrambling to manage costs amid unpredictable trade rules.

US and ally stage naval drills in warning to North Korea

The United States and South Korea wrapped up a four-day series of naval drills Sunday amid mounting tensions with North Korea's Kim Jong Un regime.

Newsweek reached out to the North Korean embassy in Beijing and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command via email for comment.

North-South relations are at their lowest point in decades as Pyongyang pushes ahead with its ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs. Kim's decision to send thousands of troops to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine has only escalated the standoff.

The 41-year-old leader has cited Seoul's growing military ties with Washington, and increasingly, with Tokyo, as justification for his nuclear arsenal, saying it's needed to defend against these "provocations."

Read the full story by Micah McCartney on Newsweek.

Trump praises Saudi crown prince, focuses on investment deals

Trump praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during their bilateral meeting Tuesday, calling the Saudi leader "wise beyond his years" and highlighting their "tremendous relationship."

"I really believe we like each other a lot," Trump said, calling the visit an honor and applauding the crown prince's role in mediating international conflicts, including efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

Trump emphasized Saudi investment in the U.S., saying it would generate "tremendous numbers of jobs." While regional tensions remain high, Trump has largely avoided discussing sensitive issues like the Gaza conflict or Iran, instead spotlighting business deals and economic ties between the two nations.

Trump urges Saudi Arabia to boost U.S. investment to $1 trillion

During a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Trump pressed Saudi Arabia to double its pledged investment in the United States, requesting $1 trillion. The kingdom has already committed $600 billion over four years, but Trump pushed for more, citing the presence of top global business leaders.

"We have the biggest business leaders in the world here," Trump said, per The New York Times. "They're going to walk away with a lot of checks."

Despite Trump's appeal, economists have questioned whether Saudi Arabia has the financial capacity to meet such a request. The crown prince has spearheaded major development initiatives under Vision 2030 but has faced recent financial constraints amid falling oil prices and rising costs.

Trump backs Ciattarelli in New Jersey GOP primary

Trump endorsed Republican Jack Ciattarelli in New Jersey's GOP gubernatorial primary, giving his campaign a key boost ahead of the June 10 contest. Trump announced his support on Truth Social, calling Ciattarelli "ALL IN" on the MAGA agenda.

The endorsement helps Ciattarelli stand out in a crowded field that includes two other Trump-aligned candidates and state Sen. Jon Bramnick, who has criticized the president. Ciattarelli, once a Trump critic himself, expressed gratitude in a post on X, calling the endorsement an honor and urging Republicans to unite.

The endorsement highlights Trump's continued influence in the GOP, even in a blue-leaning state like New Jersey. Critics, including rival Bill Spadea, claimed Trump's support was based on polling rather than policy. Ciattarelli, who nearly defeated Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy in 2021, hopes this backing helps him go further in 2025.

Trump welcomed with royal fanfare at Saudi court

Trump was met with elaborate pageantry at the Royal Court in Riyadh on Tuesday, continuing a visit focused on business and diplomacy. The former reality TV star appeared at ease with the ceremony, which included a horseback escort, national anthems, and a coffee and tea reception alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Trump's motorcade was greeted by Arabian horses bearing U.S. and Saudi flags, and trumpets sounded as he stepped out to shake hands with the crown prince. The two leaders walked a purple carpet and entered a lavish hall where they exchanged pleasantries with top officials and business executives.

Inside, Trump and bin Salman were joined by leaders from major U.S. companies including Amazon, OpenAI, Google, Boeing, and Coca-Cola. Elon Musk, a key adviser to Trump and CEO of several tech firms, was among those present. The visit reflects Trump's push to secure investment deals and deepen economic ties in the region.

Who went to Saudi Arabia with Trump?

When U.S. President Donald Trump landed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday morning to kick off a four-day tour of the Middle East, he brought a large delegation that included senior figures from his administration and guests from the business world.

Trump was greeted with all the pomp of a royal welcome as he was met by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman while disembarking from Air Force One to the sound of fanfare.

A Saudi-US Investment Forum event is taking place on Tuesday, and many of Trump's extensive delegation will attend, along with many of the top business leaders from the U.S. One of the focuses of Trump's Middle East trip is growing U.S. trade.

Read the full story by Shane Croucher on Newsweek.