Stories from Washington DC · United States

The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate is gathering industry feedback on automated image analysis software and screening technologies. The agency's research arm is exploring how artificial intelligence could assist in screening airport passengers and luggage. This initiative aims to evaluate the integration of AI into existing security protocols.

A pistol once owned by George Washington has been located at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. The firearm originally belonged to British General Edward Braddock during the French and Indian War in the mid-1700s. Washington served as a volunteer under Braddock during that period. The item reached the museum after being held by a private collector. The firearm was a gift from Braddock, who was shot during the Battle of Monongahela. Washington reportedly rallied troops to retreat under Braddock's orders before Braddock died. The pistol represents a mentorship relationship between the two men. The source noted that Washington's lack of official British army rank during this period contributed to his discontent with colonial status. Washington subsequently buried Braddock a few days after the battle. It features ornamental flower etchings on the handle.

NASA head Jared Isaacman is working to speed up development of lunar lander hardware. The effort involves two companies with existing NASA contracts, SpaceX and Blue Origin. Isaacman, a businessman and private astronaut, is pushing for the hardware required to land on the moon. The exact timeline for readiness remains uncertain due to the nature of the commercial companies involved. Assembly of the core stage is currently in progress. Astronauts are scheduled to fly by the Moon as part of the mission progress. The assembly process is continuing as part of the mission preparations.

Lawyers for a plaintiff argued that federal law leaves room for state-level regulation regarding glyphosate production. This follows an executive order issued by President Trump earlier this year aimed at boosting domestic production of the Roundup ingredient. Protesters tied to the Make America Healthy Again movement rallied outside the court to express disappointment with recent administration steps. Attorney Ashley Keller stated that state law must give way in this context. The case before the Supreme Court centers on a question of preemption based on the federal pesticide act. Plaintiffs are presenting multiple arguments in response.

The International Trade Administration (ITA) helped American companies including Boeing and Wabtech secure over $244 billion in contracts with foreign public buyers in 2025. This figure exceeds the $17 billion achieved by the Biden administration during its first year. The proposed budget includes a $10 million increase for trade enforcement in ITA and $100 million for the United States investment accelerator.

Legislation titled the Tariff Relief for Consumers Act has been introduced to provide refunds to consumers and small businesses. The bill aims to prevent tariff refund dollars from benefiting large corporations and importers. The announcement follows an Associated Press poll showing 70 percent of Americans are dissatisfied with the current administration's economic management. The move comes amid reports that 2025 saw rising unemployment and increased costs of living.

A portion of the UK public, approximately 70%, holds an unfavorable view of President Trump. Among those who do approve, segments are critical of the United Kingdom's position on the conflict in Iran. This criticism suggests a broader public disapproval of the government's stance on the conflict.

Defense Secretary Pete Hagseth and Kid Rock flew on Apache helicopters from Fort. The Pentagon has not publicly commented on the event, but a U.S. official confirmed the flight.

Teen takeovers are causing drama in various American cities, including Washington D.C., Detroit, Chicago, and Los Angeles. These events sometimes involve arson. American cities are struggling to manage these situations.

The relationship between the UK and the US has further deteriorated since 2019, during President Trump's first term. Issues discussed include immigration, the Chagos Islands, and North Sea drilling. The speaker expressed a desire to not play things differently.