US News
LAST UPDATE: June 11, 2025
Hegseth Defends Deployment to LA, Estimated to Cost $134m
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth justified the $134 million cost of deploying federal troops to Los Angeles amid immigration protests.
Insight
The deployment underscores the Trump administration’s use of military force for domestic control. The price tag has fueled criticism over spending priorities and legality. Congressional scrutiny intensifies pressure on the Pentagon’s transparency. The incident revives debates about militarizing civilian spaces. State-federal tensions may rise as local leaders push back.
Trump Tax Bill Must Keep Tip, Overtime Breaks, House Chair Says
GOP leadership aims to retain tax breaks on tips, overtime, and Social Security income in Trump’s tax bill.
Insight
These provisions reflect a populist pivot aimed at working-class voters. Exemptions could energize Trump’s electoral base but reduce revenue. Fiscal conservatives worry about the long-term deficit. The House faces pressure to reconcile fairness with fiscal prudence. This battle reflects broader party tensions between populism and economic orthodoxy.
US Sees Oil Output Falling in 2026 in Blow to Trump’s Agenda
The U.S. EIA forecasts a decline in oil output in 2026, contradicting Trump’s energy expansion goals.
Insight
The expected decline undermines Trump’s promise of energy independence. It suggests structural issues in shale investment despite policy support. Global markets may respond with price volatility. This could reframe energy debates ahead of the 2026 elections. Regulatory and capital access questions will dominate the policy agenda.
Stablecoins Bring Crypto to the Mainstream. What Could Go Wrong?
Bloomberg reports that proposed legislation to regulate dollar-pegged stablecoins could integrate these digital assets into mainstream finance.
Insight
The shift reflects how stablecoins are evolving from niche crypto tools into major financial players; issuers like Tether and Circle collectively hold billions in U.S. Treasuries, potentially impacting Treasury yields. While supporters emphasize increased legitimacy and dollar demand, critics warn rapid withdrawals could unsettle markets. The real test will come as regulatory frameworks like the Genius Act take shape, influencing both stability and innovation in the evolving financial system.
