Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer has resigned following an inspector general investigation into potential misconduct, marking the third Cabinet departure during Trump’s second term. Multiple top staffers were placed on administrative leave before ultimately leaving their positions, though her attorney insists the resignation stems from personal reasons rather than legal wrongdoing.
Ethics Committee Moves Against Congressman Mills
Rep. Nancy Mace introduced a resolution to expel Rep. Cory Mills from Congress over sexual misconduct and campaign finance allegations. The House Ethics Committee is investigating accusations of sexual misconduct, dating violence, and campaign finance violations. Mills has denied all wrongdoing. Mace criticized both parties for blocking previous censure attempts, declaring the swamp has protected Mills too long. Her expulsion resolution represents an escalation beyond committee assignments removal.
House Balance Shifts With New Jersey Swearing-In
Rep. Analilia Mejia took the oath of office, filling the seat vacated by Gov. Mikie Sherrill. The chamber now holds 217 Republicans, 214 Democrats, and independent Rep. Kevin Kiley who caucuses with Republicans. With Kiley’s support, the House can lose only one member and maintain majority control. This razor-thin margin leaves Speaker Mike Johnson navigating treacherous political terrain.
Historic Governor Passes at Age 100
Former Hawaii Gov. George Ariyoshi, the nation’s first Asian American governor, died peacefully surrounded by family. The Democrat served three terms from 1973 to 1986 after becoming acting governor when Gov. John Burns fell ill with cancer. Current Gov. Josh Green praised Ariyoshi’s humility, discipline, and unwavering sense of responsibility. His legacy as a trailblazer and public servant will endure for generations.
Trump Invokes Defense Production Act for Energy
The president signed five presidential determinations invoking the Defense Production Act to fund energy projects. The White House aims to curb impacts from rising oil and gas prices stemming from the Iran conflict. The determinations cover grid infrastructure, natural gas transmission and storage capacity, coal supply chains, petroleum production, and refining logistics capacity. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers said the move unleashes American energy dominance to protect economic and national security using funding secured in the recent spending bill.
