Politics

Tensions rise with Trump and Republican senators ahead of midterms

By Mary Clare Jalonick, Associated Press

The relationship between President Trump and Senate Republicans seems to be nearing a breaking point after Trump upended Republicans efforts for a swift confirmation of his intelligence nominee and as he thwarted quick passage of a bill to renew a…

EU leaders disagree on creation of Kremlin back-channel amid Ukraine war

By Sam McNeil, Associated Press

A top EU official has set up a tentative back-channel with Russia, despite some leaders' reservations. The Kremlin said on Friday that Russia is open to talks if Europe is ready to listen and not lecture.

Italy's Meloni pushes back on Trump's 'fabricated' claim as top diplomat cancels U.S. trip

By Nicole Winfield, Associated Press

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani abruptly cancelled a planned trip to the United States this weekend, calling Trump’s claims “serious and offensive” toward Meloni and all of Italy.

Hegseth appears out of step in criticisms of NATO allies

By Lorne Cook, Associated Press

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has criticized NATO allies and announced a Pentagon review of their performance. But Hegseth is mostly telling them things they already know.

U.S. kills 3 in strike on alleged drug boat in Pacific Ocean

By Associated Press

Thursday’s attack brings the number of people who have been killed in boat strikes by the U.S. military to at least 211 since the Trump administration began targeting those it calls “narcoterrorists” in early September.

Mamdani tests his political clout in New York's primary as he looks to reshape the Democratic Party

By Steve Peoples, Anthony Izaguirre, Matt Brown, Associated Press

Not long ago, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was demonized by leaders of both political parties. Today, just six months after taking office, the 34-year-old democratic socialist's political strength is surging.

Janeese Lewis George wins the Democratic primary for mayor of Washington, D.C.

By Gary Fields, Matt Brown, Associated Press

In an overwhelmingly Democratic city, Lewis George is likely to take the top spot in November's general election, replacing moderate Muriel Bowser, who decided not to run again after three terms.

Arizona prosecutors dismissing fake elector case but vow to seek new indictment

By Jacques Billeaud, Associated Press

The decision announced Thursday marks the third such fake elector case filed by states to be dismissed, though the Democratic attorney general is vowing to bring it back to a grand jury in hopes of securing another indictment.

U.S. lifts blockade of Iran and Iranian supreme leader endorses direct talks with American officials

By Will Weissert, Seung Min Kim, Associated Press

The U.S. on Thursday lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as the tentative agreement to end the war took effect.

U.S. gas prices just fell below $4 for 1st time since March. They're still 25% higher than last year

By Michelle Chapman, Associated Press

Prices fell overnight after President Donald Trump signed an agreement with Iran that calls for Tehran to dilute its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and waives U.S.-backed sanctions on the country.