
Politics
All the latest news stories about politics, from elections and law-making to the subtle shifts that change our lives—and our finances


Federal Reserve Keeps Rates Steady with Notable Dissents
On July 30th, the Federal Reserve held its benchmark interest rate steady at 4.25 %–4.50 %—marking the fifth hold.

Trump Imposes 25% U.S. Tariff on Indian Imports Amid Trade Deal Stalled
President Donald Trump announced that a 25% tariff on Indian imports will take effect on August 1st.

Trump Trade War Fears Fizzle as Wall Street Stays Calm
Wall Street’s reaction to President Trump’s announced tariffs has softened significantly after recent trade agreements, notably with the European Union,

U.S. and EU Strike New 15% Tariff Framework Deal
The U.S. and the EU reached a sweeping trade framework on July 27th in which the U.S. will impose 15% tariffs on on most goods imported from the EU.

Trump Threatens to Pull Subsidies and Contracts from Musk’s Empire
Trump escalated his public feud with Elon Musk by threatening to eliminate massive federal subsidies and government contracts benefiting Musk’s companies.

Trump Strikes 19% Tariff Trade Deal with Philippines
President Donald Trump announced a new trade accord with the Philippines during a White House meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr..

Japan and U.S. Reach Tariff Deal in ‘Massive’ Trade Agreement
In a surprise move announced July 22, President Trump declared a “massive” trade framework with Japan.

Bessent Urges Institution-Wide Review of the Federal Reserve
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has called for a “comprehensive review” of the Federal Reserve institution to ensure its fulfilling its core mission.

Trump Media Plunges $2 Billion Into Bitcoin Treasury
Trump Media & Technology Group, the parent company of Truth Social, confirmed it has allocated approximately $2 billion into Bitcoin and related securities.

Trump signs new stablecoin regulations in big win for crypto industry
President Donald Trump has signed the GENIUS Act into law, setting new regulations for stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency tied to assets like the U.S. dollar.

Fed official says central bank should cut rates at next meeting
A top Federal Reserve official said late Thursday that the central bank should cut its key interest rate later this month, carving out a different view than that of Chair Jerome Powell

Visa Integrity Fee Hikes Cost for Non‑Immigrant Visas
Starting October 1st, most travelers requiring non‑immigrant visas—such as tourists, students, temporary workers—will face a new $250 “visa integrity fee”.

Trump Suggests Firing Powell, Dollar Drops on Market Turmoil
Donald Trump asked lawmakers whether he should fire Federal Reserve chair.

The mayor using ChatGPT for talking points wants more AI in San Jose
San Jose’s mayor is using AI tools like ChatGPT to streamline city operations and improve services for its 1 million residents.

Inflation Rate Hits 2.7% as Tariff Price Pressures Emerge
The June Consumer Price Index rose 0.3% from May, the fastest monthly increase since January, and pushed annual inflation to 2.7%, up from 2.4% in May.

Trump Confirms Ukraine Weapons Deal, Threatens Tariffs on Russia
President Trump announced that the U.S. will supply Patriot missile systems and other advanced air-defense weapons to Ukraine via NATO.

European Union Wants to Reach a Trade Agreement with Trump
The European Union will delay retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods in hopes of reaching a trade agreement with the Trump administration.
