Stories from Washington · United States

President Trump has abruptly dismissed Carla Hayden from her position as Librarian of Congress. Observers suggest the move provides insight into the pressure placed on Bondi and the Justice Department regarding indictments. The dismissal may relate to her handling of prosecutions and the Epstein files. A man has been indicted for making threats in interstate communication via an Instagram post. The indictment alleges the post, which showed shells on a beach arranged in the number 8647, would be interpreted by a reasonable person as a serious expression of intent to harm Donald Trump. Reporting reveals a message posted by Donald Trump was intended as a private communication to Pam Bondi. The post was accidentally made public, providing insight into Trump's motivations regarding the Justice Department. James Comey is cited as one of the individuals considered an enemy by Trump.

The White House is reportedly making decisions to punish reporters who ask difficult questions. This development follows ongoing concerns regarding the deterioration of weather forecasting quality and press freedom in the United States. The actions aim to control the narrative surrounding presidential inquiries.

The EPA, FBI, CISA, and NSA have issued a joint cybersecurity advisory regarding Iranian-affiliated cyber attacks targeting water systems. The warning highlights vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure and the need for enhanced security protocols at the state and local government levels.

The US Treasury is launching an initiative to provide cybersecurity intelligence to the digital asset industry at no cost.

Pope Leo has issued a condemnation of capital punishment, calling for its global abolition. This follows a US Justice Department proposal to consider firing squads, electrocution, and gassing as alternative execution methods. The recommendation stems from reported difficulties in obtaining lethal injection drugs.

Prince Andrew is providing testimony before a US Congressional committee regarding his association with Jeffrey Epstein. The proceedings follow significant scrutiny of his past connections and social circles. This testimony is part of ongoing investigations into the Epstein network.

President Trump is permitting the US Air Force to ignore specific water pollution requirements to facilitate combat jet training in the Mountain West region. The administration argues that supersonic flight training is in the paramount interest of national security. This move prioritizes military readiness over environmental regulations in the western United States.

A new ice cream treat called the 'Rainbow Bobo Waffle' has been introduced, inspired by a Japanese home run hitter. The colorful dessert includes gummy bears, strawberry sauce, and a homemade waffle batter. This innovative offering is made entirely in-house, reflecting a commitment to fresh, unique products.

The Dutch royal couple has undertaken a trade mission in the United States, visiting locations including Miami and Pennsylvania. They met with business leaders and promoted Dutch companies, acting as ambassadors for the Netherlands. The mission aimed to foster connections and facilitate business opportunities.

The Bureau of Prisons has been directed to reinstate federal executions following a moratorium previously held under the Biden administration. Currently, only three individuals remain on federal death row: Dylan Roof, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, and Robert Bowers. This move marks a significant shift in federal capital punishment policy. The Trump administration is expanding the lethal injection protocol to officially include additional methods such as firing squads. Officials state this move aims to provide justice for victims and ensure deterrence for the most serious crimes. This move reverses policies from the Biden administration, which converted the sentences of 37 federal prisoners to life imprisonment at the end of his term. The new administration argues that Biden's previous policies caused irreparable harm to society.