House Republicans Block Democratic Resolution on Iran Actions
House Republicans, led by Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey, blocked an attempt by Democrats to pass a resolution aimed at halting President Donald Trump's military actions in Iran during a pro forma session on April 9. The resolution required unanimous consent but was dismissed without discussion, prompting protests from Democrats who criticized Trump's recent threats against Iran. This incident precedes a planned vote on a war powers resolution by Senate Democrats next week, which aims to limit Trump's military authority and require congressional approval for future actions.
US PCE Index Holds Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty
The US PCE price index rose 2.8% year-over-year in February 2026, remaining unchanged from January and aligning with expectations, while the core PCE index, which excludes food and energy, increased by 3%. Consumer spending saw a monthly rise of 0.5%, although personal income fell by 0.1%, indicating a steady economic environment ahead of the impending conflict with Iran. The Commerce Department also reported a downward revision of GDP growth for Q4 2025 to 0.5%, reflecting weaker investment than previously estimated.
Medicaid Spending Surges 10 Percent Amid Fiscal Concerns
Medicaid spending in the U.S. has increased by 10% this year, while defense spending has risen by only 4%, prompting calls for reforms in entitlement programs. The federal deficit reached $1.7 trillion in fiscal year 2025, with mandatory spending on programs like Social Security and Medicare contributing significantly to the national debt, which exceeds $39 trillion. Fiscal responsibility groups, including the Cato Institute, are urging Congress to consider substantial cuts to entitlement programs to accommodate proposed increases in defense spending.
Judge Rules Pentagon Violated Court Order on Press Access
U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman ruled that the Pentagon violated a court order by failing to restore press access, rejecting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's renewed restrictions on media coverage. The judge emphasized that the revised policy, which limited reporters' access to Pentagon sources and relocated them to an annex, was unconstitutional and merely a repackaging of previous unlawful measures. A Pentagon spokesperson stated the department disagrees with the ruling and plans to appeal.
