US News
LAST UPDATE: June 24, 2025
Trump says US interest rates should be at least two to three points lower
On June 24, President Trump posted on Truth Social, calling for a reduction in interest rates by 2–3 percentage points ahead of Fed Chair Powell’s congressional testimony, while acknowledging rates could be raised again if needed (reuters.com).
Insight
Trump’s aggressive stance underscores tension over monetary policy, aiming to pressure the Fed toward easing—potentially politicizing its decision-making and disrupting central bank independence.
Powell Headed for Congressional Grilling Over Fed’s Rate Hold
Fed Chair Jerome Powell is scheduled to testify before the House and Senate committees this week, addressing why the Federal Reserve has maintained current rate levels and the potential impact of Middle East conflicts on oil prices and inflation .
Insight
The hearings will test Powell’s handling of inflation and geopolitical risks, with scrutiny intensified by political pressure and markets seeking clues on any upcoming rate cuts.
Fiscal Jitters Return to Treasuries as Middle East Risks Ease
As Middle East tensions eased, U.S. Treasury yields climbed, reflecting renewed concerns over fiscal policies and tariffs, even as oil-driven inflation risks diminish slightly .
Insight
The market’s shift toward fiscal concerns highlights enduring anxiety over U.S. government debt levels and tariff uncertainties, which could influence bond market stability.
Senate GOP to Offer $40,000 SALT Cap With Lower Income Threshold
Senate Republicans plan to propose raising the state-and-local tax deduction cap to $40,000 but with stricter income limits, aiming to satisfy House members from high-tax states .
Insight
The compromise attempt reflects GOP efforts to balance appeal to voters in high-tax regions while containing budget impacts—baiting unity but risking intra-party friction.
Trump administration to open undeveloped forests to mining, logging
USDA announced it will reverse a Clinton-era rule banning logging, mining, and road construction on nearly 59 million acres, citing wildfire risk management—drawing environmental criticism .
Insight
The rollback emphasizes the administration’s priorities on resource development and forest management autonomy, but also heightens environmental concerns about habitat loss and ecosystem disruption.
Supreme Court Allows Trump Administration to Swiftly Deport Migrants to Third Countries
The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a Trump-era policy to rapidly deport migrants to third countries, limiting their ability to seek asylum and challenging previous judicial blocks.
Insight
This decision reaffirms the broad authority of the executive branch in immigration enforcement, potentially reshaping asylum litigation and signaling stricter border control policies going forward.
Trump’s Iran Attack Spurs Concerns of Retaliation in the U.S. – WSJ
A Wall Street Journal report highlights concerns that Trump’s offensive against Iran could provoke retaliatory actions on U.S. soil, raising fears over domestic security threats.
Insight
The warning underscores how foreign military actions can reverberate domestically, prompting heightened vigilance within intelligence circles and risk mitigation measures nationwide.
