1. Justice Department Releases Millions of Epstein Documents: More than three million pages tied to Jeffrey Epstein are made public, reigniting scrutiny of his powerful connections.
2. Gold and Silver Plunge After Kevin Warsh Fed Nomination News: Precious metals drop sharply as markets react to President Trump's Federal Reserve Chair nominee, Kevin Warsh.
3. DOJ Opens Civil Rights Investigation Into Alex Pretti Shooting: The Justice Department launches a civil rights probe following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti.
4. Nationwide Strike Fizzles as Schools and Small Businesses Feel Pressure: A heavily promoted nationwide strike largely fails to materialize, with only scattered business closures and limited student walkouts.

Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.

Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson.

www.erickerickson.com

Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

1. Senate Close to Deal to Keep Government Open: Lawmakers are nearing a continuing resolution that would fund the government for another month while negotiations continue over the Department of Homeland Security budget. Democrats appear ready to pass 11 of the 12 appropriations bills, with DHS left for further talks. Republicans are open to limited bipartisan reforms on ICE and Border Patrol, but reject Democratic demands like banning masks and requiring judicial warrants for deportations already ordered by courts.
2. Tom Homan Signals ICE Drawdown in Minnesota — With Conditions: Tom Homan announces federal immigration agents could be reduced in Minnesota if Minneapolis agrees to cooperate with DHS. He also says mass roundups will end, shifting back to targeted enforcement focused on criminal illegal aliens, gang members, and recent arrivals. Homan criticizes the publicity-driven tactics previously pushed by Kristi Noem, emphasizing constitutional protections and a return to precision operations.
3. Trade Deficit Rises as Tariffs Drive Up U.S. Costs: The trade deficit rebounds due to a surge in imports from pharmaceutical companies and data centers. Erick explains how tariffs — especially on aluminum — are now making U.S. aluminum the most expensive in the world, pushing up housing, construction, car, and consumer goods costs. Foreign producers are prioritizing other markets, worsening shortages at home, while manufacturing continues to lag.
4. Cuba Down to Weeks of Oil as U.S. Pushes for Regime Change: Financial Times reports Cuba may have only 15–20 days of oil remaining. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirms the U.S. is pursuing regime change through economic pressure rather than military action. As fuel runs out, power outages and economic shutdown could accelerate internal resistance to the Cuban government.

Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.

Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson.

www.erickerickson.com

Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.

1. Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady: Jerome Powell says inflation remains the Fed's top concern, keeping rates unchanged despite pressure from President Trump. The central bank is signaling independence, with possible rate cuts pushed to June as inflation stays above target.
2. Trump Accounts Roll Out with Major Bank Support: Bank of America and JPMorgan announce participation in the new "Trump Accounts," giving eligible children investment accounts funded with starter money from the federal government and private companies. The program aims to help families build long-term savings for education or retirement.
3. Trump Escalates Pressure on Iran as Europe Acts: President Trump warns of major military consequences if Iran refuses talks, while reports surface of potential target lists. Saudi Arabia declines to assist militarily, and European nations move to designate Iran's Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, opening the door to tougher sanctions.
4. Nearly Half of Voters Now Identify as Independent: New data shows 45% of Americans no longer align with either party, reflecting frustration with political extremism. Erick Erickson explains how this trend allows party primaries to be dominated by activist bases, leaving general election voters choosing between unpopular extremes.

Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.

Text ERICK to 33-777 for "Show Notes" and to stay updated on all things Erick Erickson.

www.erickerickson.com

Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.