Stories from Washington D.C. · United States

CISA released a joint guide regarding the adaptation of Zero Trust principles to Operational Technology (OT). CISA has released a joint advisory with the EPA, FBI, and NSA regarding Iranian-affiliated cyber attacks targeting water systems. The document provides principles for securing critical infrastructure through zero trust frameworks. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency released a guide on adapting Zero Trust principles to Operational Technology.

The United States reported a GDP growth rate of only 1.4% for the fourth quarter.

The Biden administration previously made a decision to reevaluate the pesticide Paraquat, which has been linked to Parkinson's disease.

Democratic Congressman Robert Garcia introduced a resolution on Wednesday to hold Bondi in civil contempt for failing to comply with a subpoena. A congressman has introduced a resolution regarding Pam Bondi's contempt. Originally, it was reported that Bondi would sit for a deposition on May 29th. A correction was subsequently posted stating that Bondi is set for a voluntary interview rather than a deposition. The source noted that Bondi is voluntarily cooperating with the committee to identify a mutually agreeable date. Committees may allow depositions to become transcribed interviews when witnesses are cooperative. A GOP spokesperson for the House Oversight Committee announced Bondi will appear on May 29. The Justice Department previously stated Bondi was no longer obligated to appear following her removal as Attorney General. Bondi intends to take her appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

A petition has been drafted by Kelly Ryerson regarding the EPA's approval of pesticides containing chemicals described as PFAS or PFAS-adjacent. These compounds, often referred to as 'forever chemicals,' could potentially be sprayed on crops.

The United States lacks the capacity to rapidly restock munitions stockpiles, which are currently reported as low. The source noted that the nation lacks the necessary capacity for rapid replenishment.

The US Secretary of State and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff are providing information to the House Armed Services Committee. The inquiries follow statements from US President Donald Trump regarding a potential agreement to address concerns over Iran's nuclear program. The source noted that Trump's position depends on Iran agreeing to terms that resolve US concerns.

The discussion notes that the motivation for such indictments may vary between seeking a conviction and performing actions to satisfy a president's requests. Commentators are discussing the underlying purpose of bringing criminal indictments before a grand jury.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced yesterday that he is to face a second round of indictments. These charges are on an entirely different subject from a previous case that failed last year.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will conclude his eight-year tenure on May 15. Powell's mandate ends on May 15 after an eight-year term marked by crises. His departure has raised concerns regarding the independence of the Federal Reserve. Kevin Worsh, a former central bank governor and associate of Donald Trump, is a potential successor, suggesting increased presidential influence on monetary decisions. No interest rate decisions are expected this Wednesday. The arrival of Kevin Warsh, a former U.S. inflation is currently at 3.3%, which remains above the Federal Reserve's 2% target. The Fed is currently maintaining a waiting posture to observe how the economy absorbs the impact of the war in the Middle East. He stated he will stay for an undetermined period of time. Powell cited legal attacks by the Trump administration as a reason for his decision.