Senate Approves Resolution to Repeal Mining Ban in Minnesota
The U.S. Senate voted 50-49 to approve House Joint Resolution 140, which repeals a Biden-era mining ban near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, allowing resource development in over 225,000 acres of the Superior National Forest. The resolution, championed by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-Minn.), now awaits President Donald Trump's signature after passing the House in January. Critics, including local tribal leaders and environmental groups, express concerns about the implications for tribal sovereignty and environmental protections, fearing this sets a precedent for similar actions in other protected areas.
Warsh Stresses Fed Independence Amid Confirmation Hearing
Federal Reserve chair nominee Kevin Warsh emphasized the importance of the central bank's independence while acknowledging the need for certain limits during his remarks prepared for the Senate Banking Committee. Warsh, who was nominated by President Donald Trump, stated that the Fed must focus on its primary goals and avoid overstepping into areas like fiscal and social policies. His confirmation hearing will serve as a critical test of how he balances the expectations of the Trump administration with the Fed's traditional autonomy.
Texas AG Paxton sues ActBlue over donation practices
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against ActBlue, a political donations platform primarily used by Democratic candidates, seeking to halt the acceptance of donations via gift cards and prepaid debit cards and to impose fines of $10,000 per violation of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Paxton alleges that ActBlue facilitates improper donations from foreign sources and individuals exceeding legal donor limits, a claim he has pursued through various investigations since December 2023. ActBlue has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the allegations are baseless and politically motivated.
