Author: Grace Johnson

The recent reopening of the federal government has renewed focus on safeguarding food assistance programs, particularly the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Advocates stress that while government operations resume, long-term program stability is critical for millions of Americans. SNAP provides essential support to low-income families, helping them afford nutritious food and maintain household stability. During the recent shutdown, uncertainty over federal operations created anxiety for beneficiaries and administrators alike. Experts argue that reopening must be paired with measures to protect these vital programs. The program serves millions of Americans nationwide, offering monthly benefits that directly support grocery purchases. Analysts note…

Judge Rejects Monopoly ClaimsA US district judge in Washington ruled that Meta did not violate antitrust laws when it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp more than ten years ago. The ruling is a setback for the Federal Trade Commission, which sued Meta in 2020 and argued the company used these acquisitions to build dominance in social media. Judge James Boasberg wrote that the agency failed to back its claims and concluded that Meta does not hold monopoly power. Meta welcomed the decision and said the company faces strong and constant competition. Executives Describe a Competitive MarketIn April, Judge Boasberg led a…

Pichai says no organisation can avoid the shockSundar Pichai warns that every organisation will feel the pressure if the AI bubble bursts. He told a major British news outlet that today’s AI investment wave marks an “extraordinary moment” but also shows clear signs of “irrationality”. He highlighted growing anxiety in Silicon Valley as valuations surge and companies invest heavily in fast-expanding AI technology. Pichai said his firm can handle a downturn but still faces exposure. “I think no company is going to be immune, including us,” he said. Insight from Google’s California headquartersPichai discussed energy demand, delays in climate goals,…

California students have shown significant improvement in academic performance, graduation rates, and attendance, according to the 2025 School Dashboard released by the state’s Department of Education. The dashboard provides a comprehensive overview of student outcomes across public schools. It highlights areas where students are succeeding and identifies opportunities for further growth. Key metrics show gains in test scores, reading and math proficiency, and high school completion rates. Graduation rates have reached new highs, reflecting efforts to keep students engaged through personalized learning programs and support services. Schools reported improvements in programs that address credit recovery, tutoring, and mentorship, helping students…

Trump Makes a Notable Policy ReversalDonald Trump now calls on House Republicans to support the release of the Epstein files. He declares on Truth Social that his party has “nothing to hide.” His shift comes as many Republicans indicate they may join Democrats on the vote. The House prepares to vote this week on a bill requiring the Justice Department to publish the documents. Supporters believe they have the votes in the House, though the Senate’s stance remains unclear. Trump must sign the measure if it passes both chambers. Support Expands Across Party BoundariesDemocrats and several Republicans back the legislation.…

Rising Grocery Costs Drive a Policy Shift President Donald Trump lifts tariffs on a wide range of food imports. He signs an order that removes duties from products such as coffee, bananas and beef. The action follows public frustration over climbing grocery prices. Trump dismissed cost concerns before Republicans struggled in recent elections. The updated exemption list includes avocados, tomatoes, coconuts and mangoes. Officials say US producers cannot grow these goods in sufficient amounts. Trump Defends His Approach to Trade Trump maintains his tariffs did not raise consumer prices. He argues Democrats exaggerate affordability issues for political gain. He says…

Judge Ends Years of Legal ConflictA bankruptcy judge approved a $7.4bn settlement on Friday that forces Purdue Pharma and its billionaire owners to pay for their role in the US opioid crisis. The decision concludes years of legal battles aimed at holding the OxyContin-maker and the Sackler family accountable. It also frees long-delayed funds for people struggling with addiction. Purdue filed for bankruptcy in 2019 after thousands of lawsuits accused the company of driving the opioid epidemic. New Deal Surpasses Previous OfferThe agreement adds more than $1bn to an earlier settlement rejected by the Supreme Court last year. Steve Miller,…

Apology Fuels Wider FalloutThe national broadcaster apologises to US President Donald Trump after Panorama producers stitched together parts of his 6 January 2021 speech. The edit wrongly implied Trump directly urged violent action. The 2024 programme will not air again. Trump’s legal team threatens a $1bn lawsuit and demands a retraction, an apology, and compensation. The scandal prompts the resignations of Director General Tim Davie and News Chief Deborah Turness on Sunday. The broadcaster asks the White House for comment. Second Questionable Edit UncoveredThe apology follows hours after the Daily Telegraph exposes another altered clip from a 2022 Newsnight episode.…

President Donald Trump has signed a temporary spending bill that ends the longest government shutdown in American history. He approved the measure only hours after the House of Representatives voted 222 to 209 in favor on Wednesday night. The Senate had narrowly passed the same bill two days earlier. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump announced that the government would “resume normal operations” after “people were hurt so badly” during the 43-day closure. Since October, most government services had been suspended. Around 1.4 million federal employees were either on unpaid leave or working without pay. Food aid programs froze, and…

US President Donald Trump says he has a “duty” to take legal action against a British broadcaster for how it edited a section of his 6 January 2021 speech in a Panorama documentary. Speaking to Fox News, he accused the producers of having “butchered” his words and “deceived” viewers. It is his first public statement since his lawyers warned they would sue for $1 billion unless the organisation retracts the film, apologises, and compensates him. Trump says speech was distorted In an interview on The Ingraham Angle, Trump confirmed he plans to proceed with the lawsuit. “Well, I guess I…