Stories from Washington D.C. · United States

Subcommittee Chair Harold Rogers is requesting a nearly twofold increase in the annual appropriation for the Bureau of Industry and Security. This funding is intended to strengthen the nation's export control system. The investment aims to bolster national security through enhanced regulatory oversight.

New research indicates that the brain processes 'near-misses' on slot machines differently depending on gambling pathology. While both addicted and non-addicted gamblers perceive near-misses as wins, neurological data shows that non-pathological gamblers activate the same brain regions for losses as they do for near-misses. This finding provides insight into the neurological mechanics of gambling addiction.

Political analysts are questioning Donald Trump's persistent desire for positive business relations with Russia and Vladimir Putin, despite ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. This stance is viewed critically, especially as Russia collaborates with China and supports Iran. There is discussion about whether this influences potential invitations for Putin to international summits. Investigators are looking into possible connections between the Russian government or Russian figures and the Trump campaign.

The United States federal budget includes a $215 million increase for the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). This amount represents a increase compared to the previous year's budget. A two-step application process is currently underway, consisting of a pre-application phase followed by a full proposal and scientific review. The funding aims to support meritorious research proposals and various education initiatives.

A car rally is scheduled to travel from Vienna, Virginia, to Washington D.C. to draw attention to Iranian political prisoners and human rights issues. The event aims to highlight the situation of detainees in Iran and protest against the current regime. Participants will focus on the northern regions of Virginia and the U.S. capital.

The Pentagon reports that restoring damaged military bases will require billions of dollars in funding. US military bases in the Persian Gulf region have sustained escalating damage following Iran's attacks. The cost to repair these bases is projected to reach up to $5 billion USD, equivalent to approximately 7.4 trillion South Korean Won. This situation is part of a prolonged, low-intensity conflict in Asia. US military operations against Iran are costing approximately $1 billion per day, according to data from the Iran Cost-Tracker portal. A Pentagon report to Congress indicated that the first six days of operations exceeded $11 billion. These costs cover personnel, ships deployed to the region, and other associated expenses. The data is updated in real-time by the portal.

A recent poll indicates that less than 25% of Americans currently view a college degree as essential for achieving the American dream. This shift follows a massive increase in tuition, with costs at major private colleges rising tenfold since 1980. The rising expense is driving a political and social divide regarding the value of higher education. A man interviewed on Times Radio UK noted that college has become too expensive to function as a tool for social mobility. He stated that university in the US is often out of reach for many. He added that even those who graduate are frequently trapped in debt for years.

The EPA, FBI, CISA, and NSA have issued a joint cybersecurity advisory regarding Iranian-affiliated cyberattacks targeting water systems. The warning highlights escalating threats to critical infrastructure and the need for enhanced defenses. US banks have been issued warnings against conducting trade with Iran, amidst broader concerns about cybersecurity and critical infrastructure related to Iran.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announced on Friday that he will not step down despite recent political shifts. The decision comes as gas prices rise by 3.5%. The Wall Street rally saw new historical highs early in the week but was quickly dampened by rising oil prices, fueling inflation and economic concerns. David Kuhn noted the decision serves to demonstrate the Federal Reserve's standing to the markets. Jerome Powell's term as Federal Reserve Chair ends on May 15, but his term as a Fed governor continues until late January 2028. Jerome Powell stated that the US government's actions have crossed a line and could alter the Federal Reserve's operations. Jerome Powell is expected to remain as Federal Reserve Chair, despite being described as a negative figure by Treasury Secretary Bessent.

The Trump administration has proposed a budget request that includes the elimination of all Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants. The plan also seeks to claw back $63 million in previously approved bipartisan grant funding. This move comes amid a period where 70 percent of Americans disapprove of the president's economic management.