Department of Just-Indict-Someone

Key Points:

• Oil prices surged above $120 a barrel amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, with Brent crude settling around $114, reflecting global economic concerns.
• Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faces skepticism over the felony indictment of former FBI Director James Comey for an alleged death threat based on an Instagram photo, with critics calling it a politically motivated prosecution.
• FBI Director Kash Patel and Trump administration officials defend the indictment despite widespread doubts, while Senator Thom Tillis expresses public skepticism, potentially influencing Blanche’s prospects for permanent AG appointment.
• Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announced he will remain on the Fed board after his term ends, aiming to protect the Fed’s independence amid ongoing politically charged investigations and pressure from the Trump administration.
• Maine Governor Janet Mills suspended her Senate campaign due to fundraising challenges, setting up a contest between progressive candidate Graham Platner and incumbent Susan Collins, while the Trump administration navigates tensions with AI firm Anthropic amid cybersecurity considerations.