Trump Arrives in Beijing for High-Stakes Xi Summit
The U.S. president begins a three-day visit aimed at stabilizing trade ties and addressing global security concerns including Iran and Taiwan.
Politics
Trump Extends Iran Ceasefire Indefinitely
President backs off escalation threat for second time in two weeks after Pakistan's plea. Vance's peace talks trip to Islamabad is abruptly canceled amid Iran's absence.
Trump: U.S. Officials Head to Pakistan for Iran Talks
Vice President JD Vance leads the second round of negotiations with Iran. The Strait of Hormuz remains closed, and the ceasefire expires tomorrow. No word yet from Tehran as tensions mount in the Gulf.
Appeals Court Lifts Block on Trump White House Ballroom
A federal appeals panel in Washington D.C. late Friday cleared the way for construction on President Trump's $400 million White House ballroom project, overriding a district judge's halt while citing urgent national security requirements. The three-judge panel set oral arguments for June 5 amid ongoing legal challenges from preservation groups.
Bulgaria Votes in Eighth Election Amid Crisis
Pro-Russian ex-President Rumen Radev's party leads polls at 35% as voters in Sofia and across the country cast ballots on April 19, 2026. Anti-corruption protests toppled the last government.
Progressive Mejia Wins NJ-11 Special Election Landslide
Analilia Mejia defeats Republican Joe Hathaway 60-40% in suburban New Jersey district, flipping the congressional seat vacated by Gov. Mikie Sherrill through January 2027.
Swalwell, Gonzales Resign from Congress Over Harassment
Rep. Eric Swalwell resigned amid a House Ethics Committee probe into assault claims from multiple women. Rep. Tony Gonzales stepped down after admitting a staffer affair linked to her suicide. Lawmakers demand record releases and reforms.
NYT Exposes Secret Memos on Supreme Court's Shadow Docket Birth
Confidential 2016 documents reveal Chief Justice Roberts and conservatives crafted an emergency stay against Obama's Clean Power Plan, bypassing normal procedures in a 5-4 vote.
Iran Recloses Strait of Hormuz Amid US Blockade
Iran's IRGC seizes control of the vital waterway on April 18, 2026. Forces fired on foreign ships hours after a brief reopening, as a fragile two-week ceasefire nears expiration and Trump issues stark warnings.