GOP Tensions Rise Over FISA Section 702 Renewal
House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing escalating tensions within the GOP as he seeks a resolution on the contentious Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which allows warrantless surveillance of foreign communications that may include Americans. President Trump signed a 10-day extension of the law on April 23, 2026, after House Republicans failed to agree on a longer renewal, setting the stage for further negotiations as lawmakers grapple with balancing national security and privacy concerns.
U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan Fired Amid Tensions
U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan was fired effective immediately amid ongoing tensions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg, primarily over shipbuilding initiatives, including the controversial 'Golden Fleet' program. Phelan's departure marks the first exit of a service secretary from the Trump administration and comes as the U.S. Navy enforces a blockade of Iranian ports, a situation that has raised concerns about the implications for naval operations. Undersecretary Hung Cao will assume the role of acting Navy secretary following Phelan's dismissal.
Los Angeles School District Limits Classroom Screen Time
The Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution to limit classroom screen time for its approximately 500,000 students, making it the first major U.S. school district to do so. The policy, set to take effect in the 2026-2027 school year, prohibits device use for students in early education through first grade, establishes maximum daily and weekly screen time limits for older students, and bans student-led access to platforms like YouTube on district devices. This decision follows increasing pressure from parents concerned about the negative impacts of excessive screen time on children's education and wellbeing.
Labor Department proposes new joint employer regulations
The U.S. Department of Labor proposed new regulations aimed at clarifying joint employer status for businesses utilizing contractors and franchisees, focusing on compliance with federal wage laws. The proposal outlines a four-factor test to determine joint employer liability, emphasizing direct control over hiring, supervision, pay, and employee records. Public comments will be collected for 60 days before a final rule is potentially adopted this year.
Congressman urges rejection of clemency for Maxwell
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, a senior member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, has urged Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to reject any potential clemency for Ghislaine Maxwell, citing concerns over the Department of Justice's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein sex-trafficking investigation. Krishnamoorthi's letter condemns reports of a possible pardon and calls for a renewed investigation into the Epstein network, highlighting the Department's failure to pursue charges against additional perpetrators despite evidence involving over 1,000 victims. Meanwhile, the House Oversight Committee remains divided on the implications of a pardon for Maxwell, according to the committee chairman.
