The House of Representatives narrowly passed a sweeping bill aimed at fulfilling President Trump’s domestic agenda, which includes extending tax cuts and cutting social safety net programs. The final vote was 218 to 214, with nearly all Republicans in favor and Democrats unanimously opposed. Representative Hakeem Jeffries criticized the bill as “an all-out assault on the health care of the people of the United States of America.”
This legislation marks a significant victory for Trump and the Republican Party, although it poses a political risk ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, as vulnerable Republican lawmakers may face backlash for supporting cuts to benefits.
According to analysis from a White House correspondent, the bill's passage underscores Trump’s considerable influence over the Republican Party. Despite some lawmakers expressing concerns about the extent of the cuts, Trump exerted pressure to ensure the bill's passage by the deadline he set for July 4.
Trump is anticipated to sign the bill, which he has referred to as his “big, beautiful bill,” into law shortly.
In Europe, extreme heat is shifting eastward as temperatures begin to cool in parts of Western Europe. Central Europe is now under warnings for dangerously high temperatures. The heat wave has already resulted in four fatalities in Spain, which, along with France, faced severe conditions earlier in the week. The combination of high temperatures and drought has led to wildfires, prompting the evacuation of approximately 1,500 individuals from the Greek island of Crete.
Additionally, nuclear power operators in France and Switzerland have shut down at least three reactors due to the extreme heat.
In trade news, the U.S. is negotiating a preliminary trade pact with Vietnam as part of an effort to reduce China's influence in global supply chains. The details of the pact are limited, but it includes a 20 percent tariff on Vietnamese exports to the U.S. and a 40 percent tariff on goods classified as transshipments from China.
In cultural news, North Korea has opened a new waterfront resort at Kalma Beach, which was previously used for military drills. State media reports that the resort is attracting attention, although no foreign tourists have been observed.
In other news, Michael Madsen, known for his roles in Quentin Tarantino films, has passed away at the age of 67.
Finally, British band Oasis is reuniting after 16 years for a global tour, marking their first performances since 2009. The brothers’ ongoing public feuds have kept them in the spotlight despite the band’s hiatus.
For additional recommendations, readers can explore a new mango shortcake recipe, a biography of Clint Eastwood, and the film “40 Acres,” among other cultural highlights.
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