Stories from Washington DC · United States

A Gartner study examined the impact of artificial intelligence investment on labor and spending. Some companies report savings in specific tasks such as software testing or content generation.

The Trump administration is urging the public to report hospitals and nursing homes that serve meals not meeting dietary guidelines. A Russian source reported that a proposal for an armistice on May 8 was made, though the source noted the proposal could not be offered while Western involvement remains a factor. Donald Trump has proposed an armistice for May 9, according to a report from Radio Sputnik. The proposal is being discussed in the context of potential Russian-side compliance. A proposal for an armistice on May 8 was discussed, though critics distinguish it from a formal ceasefire between warring parties. The proposal is described by some as a unilateral cessation of fire rather than a mutual agreement. The broadcast noted that the US administration's actions continue and that sanctions may be expanded.

The U.S. economy grew at an annual rate of 2 percent during the first three months of the year. This growth rate was slightly slower than forecasters had expected. The Commerce Department reported the uptick in first quarter economic growth.

The national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in the US has reached $4.30, according to AAA. President Trump dismissed concerns that high gas prices will persist long after the Iran War concludes. Consumer prices rose 0.7 percent from February, according to a report by Saka Magani. Compared with a year ago, prices were up 3.5 percent, marking the largest hike in nearly three years. Democrat Rosa DeLauro stated that bipartisan packages have passed the Senate and are moving to President Trump. The report noted that soaring gas prices pushed inflation higher last month. These remarks follow reports of the global economy feeling strain from the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian oil industry is currently struggling under a U.S. Navy blockade. The remarks come as the global economy faces strain from Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz.

The US Farm Bill, which governs various agricultural policies including crop insurance and school lunches, is scheduled for a vote in Congress. Most Republicans voted in support of the bill while most Democrats voted against it. Chairman Thompson was credited with bringing the bill forward. Democratic Representative Jim McGovern commented on the bill's progress earlier this week. The legislation's journey through Congress has been described as difficult. The bill aims to address agricultural and energy policy issues. The proposed farm bill includes $187 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). According to the Congressional Budget Office, this figure represents approximately a 20% reduction in benefits for low-income and poor individuals. The cuts are expected to impact the program over the course of the year.

Cole Allen, a teacher from Southern California, is scheduled for a detention hearing in Washington, DC. The hearing will determine if authorities can continue to detain Allen following an alleged assassination attempt on the president at a correspondence dinner last Saturday.

Capital expenditure estimates for data centers are projected to reach between $700 billion and $750 billion for 2026. Companies have been spending massively on AI to drive these figures. This spending follows a trend of quarterly earnings and sales exceeding expectations.

Dow futures rose 311 points, representing a more than half percent increase for blue chip stocks. The S&P 500 advanced 37 points following news that economic growth reached approximately 2.2%. Nasdaq futures increased by 200 points, a three-quarters of a percent rise.

Democrats are considering filing a lawsuit if President Trump attempts an unexpected term extension beyond the mandated deadline.

The Space Force has selected companies to develop counter-surveillance payloads for satellites under SBIR contracts. These payloads, managed by the Space Rapid Capabilities Office, are designed to detect electromagnetic emissions.