Monday, 31 August 2026

The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 to allow Trump's $400 million White House ballroom construction to proceed, overturning a lower court's injunction. Chief Justice John Roberts dissented, arguing the decision likely infringes on Congress's power of the purse and is 'likely unlawful.'

The US struck Iranian military targets on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz to prevent mine deployment, prompting Iranian retaliation against US bases in Jordan and the UAE. Trump warned Iran he will 'hit them hard' but suggested escalation would remain limited.

Trump announced a deal granting the US majority control of over 65 billion barrels of Venezuelan oil reserves. However, analysts note significant logistical and political hurdles remain before production can meaningfully increase.

Trump attacked communities opposing data centres, claiming they risk becoming 'backwards and poor' if they reject the infrastructure. The pushback reflects widespread public concern: polls show three-quarters of Americans oppose data centres near their homes despite AI industry promotion.

Trump pressured Apple to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' on Apple Maps, following Google's weekend decision to make the change for US users. MapQuest said it would not adopt the new name, highlighting split responses from map providers.

Former Congressman George Santos was permanently banned from the prediction market platform Kalshi and fined $71,356 after the company found evidence he engaged in insider trading by betting on his own attendance at Trump's State of the Union address.

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll resigned after months of tension with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over military staffing decisions and strategic direction. The resignation marks continued turnover at the Pentagon during Trump's second term.

The Pentagon played down a Washington Post report that four generals and admirals had advised against prolonging the Iran war, with officials working to discredit the account of military dissent over the administration's Middle East strategy.

Vice President JD Vance characterized Michigan's Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed as 'evil' during a campaign rally, escalating partisan rhetoric ahead of the November midterm elections.

Trump's Justice Department issued a grand jury subpoena to Daniel C. Richman, a confidant of former FBI Director James Comey, as part of its persistent campaign to pursue Trump's political opponents. Comey has already been indicted twice by the administration.