Stories from Washington D.C. · United States

President Trump is expected to nominate Cameron Hamilton to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). He is expected to serve as acting administrator at the start of the Trump administration. The agency is currently facing a period of uncertainty regarding its continued existence. His potential return follows a period of uncertainty regarding the Trump administration's intentions for FEMA. The move is described as a twist in the agency's leadership transition. Hamilton was previously fired for his stance on the agency and must now pass Senate confirmation to return. He is described as a 'MAGA warrior' by the broadcaster. Hamilton is described as a former congressional candidate with a platform focused on rooting out government waste and fraud. He was reportedly fired for defending the agency, but could be invited back to lead it if he receives Senate confirmation.

British Columbia MP Jonathan Wilkinson has been appointed as the new ambassador to the United States. The appointment comes amid global turbulence and trade challenges between Canada and the U.S.

A new poll from Washington Post, ABC News, and Ipsos shows 61% of Americans believe the current war has been a mistake. Congressional members are hearing from constituents that the current war is not popular.

The AI firm Anthropic is in a dispute with the US administration regarding its refusal to allow its technology to control autonomous lethal weapons. The firm also refuses to allow its technology to be used for domestic mass surveillance.

Ford is addressing a possible loose bolt on the front seat frames of certain 2024-2026 Ford Ranger and Bronco models. The issue may prevent seats from properly restraining occupants during a crash. Owners might notice squeaks, looseness, or rattles in the front seats. No crashes or injuries have been reported regarding this defect. Ford is initiating a major recall specifically regarding seat installations on its two highest-selling SUV models. Dealers will inspect the vehicles and make repairs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a recall for 2024 through 2026 Ford Bronco and Ford Ranger pickup trucks. Ford dealers will inspect and replace pivot links and bolts for free as a temporary fix.

Donald Trump intends to change the interpretation of the U.S. Constitution regarding birthright citizenship by the end of this year. The proposal aims to restrict citizenship to children of American parents. Constitution is currently before the Supreme Court.

Donald Trump is attempting to tighten regulations regarding birth tourism to the United States. The report notes that companies in various countries, including Brazil, provide advisory services for pregnant women to travel to the U.S. to give birth.

The Pentagon is asserting that the current ceasefire eliminates the requirement for congressional approval while maintaining a blockade on Iran. The measure received 47 votes in favor and 50 votes against. Despite skepticism from some Republicans regarding the conflict, the measure did not succeed. Attempts in the Senate and House of Representatives to pass a resolution requiring the administration to refrain from military operations against Iran have failed. Even with Republican skepticism regarding war with Iran, the measures were not adopted. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified before the US Senate Armed Services Committee that the 60-day deadline for the Iran war, which began without Congressional approval, has paused. Hegseth argued the clock stopped because the US and Iran have been in a ceasefire since April 7.

U.S. He also noted that the Iranian regime is currently highly divided among two to four different leadership groups. The proposals were reportedly mediated through Pakistani intermediaries. The rejection comes as the conflict reaches the 60-day mark. He told reporters that the proposals include demands he cannot agree to. Analysts noted that Iranian leadership is currently disjointed, consisting of two to four groups that all desire a deal but are struggling to coordinate. President Trump is not seeking congressional approval for continued hostilities with Iran despite the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Act. The White House and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that hostilities ended with the implementation of a ceasefire. This stance persists despite the continued presence of US forces in the region. The administration maintains there has been no further exchange of fire.

Lawmakers reauthorized FISA section 702 for a 45-day period. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reopened following a record 75-day partial shutdown. Additionally, the House passed the farm bill, though its passage in the Senate remains uncertain. Lawmakers are expected to face increased pressure when they return to session on May 11. There is currently no agreement in Congress regarding a solution to the impasse over FISA. The extension comes amid discussions regarding national security, intelligence, and counterintelligence.