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Judge taps ex-prosecutor to probe lawyer conduct in Trump golf course fight
The Washington Post • • general
Key Points:
- Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin) accused the Trump administration of corruption, citing former Trump adviser Calley Means' claims that top aides blocked popular policies to cater to special interests. Johnson emphasized that such corruption is bipartisan and widespread across government agencies.
- A federal judge plans to appoint Jessie K. Liu, former U.S. attorney for D.C., as a special master to investigate potential ethical violations by Justice and Interior Department lawyers related to the Trump administration’s plans for East Potomac Golf Links. The inquiry will examine government conduct and possible misinformation about the redevelopment.
- Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) called for a caucus discussion before deciding on Senate Democratic leadership, challenging the assumption that Sen. Chuck Schumer should automatically remain leader amid criticism of his recent decisions. Some Democrats support Schumer, while others seek a more thorough evaluation.
- Houston Mayor John Whitmire issued an executive order limiting police contact with immigration officials to suspects involved in jailable offenses, aiming to reduce community fear. This policy shift follows recent Democratic election victories in Texas and contrasts with former Gov. Greg Abbott's stricter stance on immigration enforcement.
- Holiday spending is expected to rise by 4.5 percent despite inflation, with consumers prioritizing physical gifts over travel or events and seeking budget-friendly options. Research from Visa and Bank of America indicates shoppers are delaying purchases to mid-December, focusing on deals and smarter spending amid economic concerns.
- Several key races remain undecided days after the midterm elections, including tight Senate contests in Mississippi and Alaska, and competitive House races in North Carolina’s 5th District and Colorado’s 4th District, where some incumbents face strong challenges that could shift party control in these districts.
