David Smith

Michael Cohen interviewed Donald Trump on 77 WABC in an unusually deferential exchange, addressing him as “boss” and “sir” while allowing his claims to go largely unchallenged. The reversal is striking because Cohen previously denounced Trump, arranged the Stormy Daniels hush-money payment on his behalf and served prison time connected to Trump-related conduct. The commentary attributes Cohen’s change of tone partly to his application for a presidential pardon and appetite for attention, and places it alongside other former Trump critics who returned to his political orbit. A contrasting CNN reaction likened the reunion to Julius Caesar and Brutus.

The White House is facing scrutiny over reports that Natalie Harp, one of Donald Trump’s closest aides, worked for about a year without the security clearance typically required for access to sensitive information. According to MS NOW, Harp initially declined to complete the necessary forms and obtained clearance only after the White House counsel’s office and Trump became involved. Former ethics and national-security officials called the reported lapse alarming, while White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Harp as loyal and hardworking. The controversy has renewed concerns about preferential treatment for Trump’s inner circle, echoing disputes over Jared Kushner’s clearance during Trump’s first term, and has intensified after Democratic senator Jon Ossoff publicly criticized Harp’s influence and proximity to the president.

Natalie Harp, a California cancer survivor and former One America News Network presenter, became closely aligned with Donald Trump after publicly crediting him with helping her access experimental treatment. She later joined his political operation and became known as the “human printer,” supplying him with printed information and helping manage his Truth Social posts. Now a White House executive assistant, Harp travels frequently with Trump and is described as unusually influential and devoted, even writing him intensely admiring letters. Democratic senator Jon Ossoff’s insinuation about their relationship triggered a fierce White House response and renewed public scrutiny, while reporting and comments from Harp’s estranged brother raise questions about the extent of her influence over Trump’s worldview and communications.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has not ruled out a 2028 presidential run, and her national profile, progressive electoral momentum, social-media reach and appeal to voters seeking change have intensified speculation. Supporters see her as an authentic successor to Bernie Sanders, while critics argue that Washington has moderated or absorbed her outsider politics. Potential obstacles include Democratic concerns about electability, her relationship with Black voters, attacks from Republicans, and criticism from the left over her treatment of Kamala Harris and the Israel-Gaza conflict. A crowded Democratic field and the possibility of a Senate campaign complicate the decision, but her ability to generate intense enthusiasm and attention could make the presidential opportunity difficult to ignore.

The Progressive Change Campaign Committee has endorsed 27-year-old substitute teacher Elijah Manley in Florida’s Democratic primary against veteran congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. Manley, who is Black and experienced childhood homelessness, is campaigning on universal healthcare, a federal jobs guarantee and stronger workers’ rights. Wasserman Schultz is facing criticism for running in the majority-Black 20th district, despite living elsewhere, after Republican-backed redistricting fragmented her previous seat. A poll cited by the PCCC showed Manley moving ahead after voters learned more about the candidates. Other primary contenders include Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Dale Holness and Luther Campbell.

Jay Clayton has been sworn in as the ninth US director of national intelligence, replacing acting director Bill Pulte and succeeding Tulsi Gabbard. His confirmation followed a contentious hearing in which he declined to directly acknowledge Joe Biden's 2020 election victory, prompting Democratic criticism while Republicans confirmed him along party lines. Clayton brings experience as a former US attorney and SEC chair and has pledged to protect the intelligence community from political interference. His appointment comes amid concerns over upheaval within US intelligence agencies and the Trump administration's focus on election security ahead of the midterm elections.

Troy Jackson, a former president of the Maine Senate and fifth-generation logger, has been selected as the Democratic candidate to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins after Graham Platner withdrew amid sexual-assault allegations he denies and other scandals. Jackson brings a rural working-class profile, a history of labor activism and progressive positions including Medicare for All and abolishing ICE, but has less campaign funding, name recognition and polish than Collins or Platner. Supporters argue his authenticity can offset his limited charisma, while Republicans portray him as a socialist insider and ideological extremist. Collins holds a substantial financial advantage, though Democrats hope dissatisfaction with Donald Trump, inflation and controversies surrounding ICE could create a favorable environment in a closely watched Senate race.

South Carolina confronts the multifaceted legacy of Lindsey Graham following his death at 71, reflecting on his evolution from bipartisan conservative to staunch Trump ally. Residents, political figures and analysts describe his deep roots in the state, his military and political career, and his skill at constituent service. His close relationship with his sister and nontraditional personal life helped shape public perception, while his shift toward Trump aligned with the state’s political direction. Republicans now face a compressed timeline to select a successor as his sister Darline steps in to complete his term.

Tributes to Lindsey Graham from Israeli and Ukrainian leaders highlighted his global influence and deeply controversial foreign policy legacy. He was celebrated by allies for strong support on Israel, Ukraine and US military power, yet criticized for hawkish positions that shaped conflicts in Iraq and Iran and strained parts of the Republican base. His close relationship with Donald Trump made him a key channel for foreign leaders seeking influence, and his death raises concerns about reduced constraints on Trump’s foreign policy instincts. Graham’s unwavering support for Israel and confrontational stance toward Iran fueled both praise and hostility, while his long-standing advocacy for Ukraine reinforced his role as a major transatlantic figure.

US senator Lindsey Graham died at age 71 following a sudden illness, according to a statement from his office. His death marks a significant moment for Washington and the Republican Party, where he served as a prominent figure since 2003 and became one of Donald Trump’s strongest allies despite initially criticizing him during the 2016 presidential race. A retired air force reserve colonel known for hawkish foreign policy positions, Graham’s passing prompts requests for privacy from his family amid ongoing political ramifications.

Uncertainty surrounds Mitch McConnell’s condition nearly a month after his hospitalization, with his office offering minimal details despite emergency reports suggesting a severe medical episode. His prolonged absence threatens Republican efforts in a narrowly divided Senate ahead of major funding and defense decisions. Kentucky governor Andy Beshear has urged transparency, while Republican leaders insist McConnell remains engaged. The situation highlights broader concerns about aging political leaders and potential complications if McConnell cannot return or if a vacancy is triggered under Kentucky’s revised succession laws.

Graham Platner ended his Maine Senate campaign with an 11‑minute video blaming Democratic leaders and the media for allegations of sexual assault and past misconduct that doomed his candidacy. Ignoring advisers’ pleas for a conciliatory tone, he framed himself as a victim of political elites and denied wrongdoing while offering no apology to accusers. Democratic figures and political groups condemned the video for lacking accountability, while Donald Trump defended him by casting doubt on the allegations. The withdrawal leaves Democrats scrambling to replace him in a key Senate race.

Andrew Giuliani defended Donald Trump’s lobbying of Fifa to overturn Folarin Balogun’s suspension by questioning the actions of referee Raphael Claus, despite no evidence of wrongdoing. Fifa and the Brazilian Football Confederation rejected any suspicion toward the referee. Giuliani also addressed criticism of logistical arrangements for the Iranian team and highlighted the tournament’s record attendance, streamlined entry processes, and security operations. He argued that the U.S. successfully demonstrated its capacity to host major global events as the World Cup entered its final stages.

Republican leaders, including John Thune and John Barrasso, attempted to counter growing speculation and conspiracy theories about Mitch McConnell’s health following his June hospitalization and prolonged absence from Senate votes. The lack of disclosed medical details fueled criticism from pro‑Trump figures, who accused party leaders of hiding McConnell’s condition. Statements from allies emphasized that McConnell remained engaged in Senate matters, while political commentators and activists debated his influence, Trump’s role, and potential succession implications. McConnell is set to retire in January, and uncertainty over his condition has intensified internal Republican tensions ahead of the midterm elections.

An exhibition at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum highlights the long relationship between art and flight, showcasing works from NASA’s early art programme and pieces by artists such as Norman Rockwell, Alma Thomas and Robert Rauschenberg. The show explores how artists visualised space exploration, blending research, imagination and cultural reflection. Works range from Rockwell’s documentary-style paintings of the Apollo program to Rauschenberg’s experimental pieces incorporating aerospace materials. The exhibition emphasises the human experience of flight and celebrates the museum’s 50th anniversary with a wide survey of artistic interpretations of aviation and space travel.

Andy Burnham’s expected arrival as UK prime minister raises urgent questions about navigating relations with Donald Trump, whose volatile and transactional approach has strained ties with recent British leaders. Analysts warn that Burnham’s anonymity in the US provides both an opportunity and vulnerability, suggesting he avoid public confrontations while maintaining focus on UK interests. Experts highlight Trump’s preference for flattery, personal rapport and power dynamics, while advising Burnham to preserve distance, avoid deference and seek early wins, such as increased defence commitments. Historical examples underscore how leaders’ approaches to Trump have varied, with some gaining leverage through confidence and controlled charm while others faced humiliation. Burnham is encouraged to build alliances within a potentially Democratic-controlled US Congress and to retire references to the “special relationship,” which no longer resonates in Washington. The central challenge remains whether the new “town mayor” from Manchester can rebuild trust in a deeply fractured transatlantic partnership.

Trump’s delayed Independence Day address on the National Mall delivered a meandering, often anticlimactic speech mixing grandiose self‑praise with partisan themes. Attempts at statesmanlike rhetoric repeatedly gave way to grievances, exaggerated claims and abrupt digressions on topics ranging from Iran to voter ID laws. Veterans, astronauts and historical milestones were used as set pieces, but the message remained overshadowed by his fixation on political enemies and personal vindication. A massive fireworks display capped an event marked by loyalist enthusiasm, defiance during a weather evacuation and mixed motivations among attendees, some of whom came only for the spectacle.

Donald Trump opened America’s 250th Independence Day weekend with a partisan speech at Mount Rushmore, attacking what he called a resurgent communist threat and linking it to progressive Democrats and immigrants. He framed communism as a danger greater than past wars or terrorist attacks, urged Congress to end the filibuster to pass the Save America Act, and suggested expelling those he labeled communists. The speech drew criticism for weaponising the semiquincentennial and overlooking historical injustices such as the US seizure of Sioux land. Rising progressive electoral successes and a recent pro‑immigrant speech by New York mayor Zohran Mamdani provided political backdrop to Trump’s remarks.

Donald Trump dedicated the new $450 million Theodore Roosevelt Library in Medora, North Dakota, arriving with theatrical America250 displays including a refurbished Air Force One and a patriotic train ride. His speech highlighted comparisons between himself and Roosevelt while avoiding Roosevelt’s conservation legacy. Supporters praised similarities between the two presidents, while critics, including Democratic congressman Brendan Boyle, dismissed the parallels and criticized Trump’s focus on self-promotion. The event, backed by major Republican donors, marks part of a broader series of patriotic celebrations leading up to Trump’s appearances at Mount Rushmore and the National Mall.

The economic crisis is described as spreading from the banking sector into manufacturing, with particular strain visible in the automotive industry. Despite the downturn, investment in low- and zero‑carbon technologies is presented as a solution that stimulates the current economy while supporting long-term climate goals. Government assistance is urged to help manufacturers sustain innovation and competitiveness, with Jaguar Land Rover noted as an example of major investment in advanced technologies and job creation. Collaboration between business, government and regional agencies is positioned as essential for leading the transition to a future low‑carbon economy.