Good evening, everyone. As we wrap up another long week, I wanted to make sure you had a timely update before I step away for dinner with my wife and her family. I’ve spent the entire day digging deeply into the Melania Trump–Epstein story, and there are significant developments you need to know.
At the same time, Trump is now signaling potential mass pardons for staffers—moves that could extend to any misconduct tied to the Epstein files. Meanwhile, members of Congress are formally calling for a cognitive evaluation of the president, alongside renewed discussion of invoking the 25th Amendment.
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Here’s the news:
- Melania Trump denied any connection to Jeffrey Epstein and called for Congress to hold public hearings where victims can testify. Commentators say her statement could trigger a new wave of scrutiny and extend the scandal surrounding Donald Trump. Her remarks reportedly surprised the White House and even Trump himself, highlighting internal tension. The situation may lead to prolonged political and legal fallout tied to Epstein’s case.
- Paolo Zampolli claimed that he—not Jeffrey Epstein—introduced Melania Trump to Donald Trump. He said he is willing to testify before Congress following Melania Trump’s public denial of any connection between her introduction to Trump and Epstein. The statement adds to ongoing scrutiny surrounding Epstein’s past associations and efforts to clarify his links to prominent figures.
- Amanda Ungaro alleged that Paolo Zampolli used his political influence to have her detained and deported from the U.S. during a child custody dispute. She said immigration agents arrested her at home and that Zampolli later contacted authorities regarding their son’s testimony. Ungaro claims the actions were part of a broader effort tied to their personal conflict.
- According to the Wall Street Journal, Donald Trump has reportedly promised to issue broad pardons to administration staff and associates before leaving office, according to people familiar with his remarks. He said he would pardon those who had come within a certain distance of the Oval Office, at times describing a range of “200 feet” and even “10 feet.” While some attendees reacted with laughter, the comments were repeated in multiple settings and framed as a pledge to use his presidential pardon powers.
- A new U.S. policy will automatically register men ages 18 to 26 for the military draft starting in December, expanding a system already used in most states. The measure, signed into law by Donald Trump, applies to citizens and many noncitizens but is not directly tied to current conflicts like the war with Iran. A draft would still require congressional approval and would use a lottery system to determine who serves. Supporters say automatic registration prevents penalties for those who fail to sign up and has bipartisan backing.
- A senior Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee has formally requested that the White House physician conduct a cognitive exam of Donald Trump. The request cites Trump’s recent public statements, social media posts, and behavior at events as evidence of possible cognitive decline. The lawmaker argued that experts have raised concerns about signs consistent with dementia and described Trump’s recent rhetoric as increasingly erratic and concerning. The move adds to growing political scrutiny over the president’s fitness for office.
- Donald Trump said U.S. warships are being reloaded with “the best ammunition” in preparation to resume airstrikes on Iran if upcoming peace talks in Pakistan fail. He indicated a decision on the success of the negotiations could come within about 24 hours. The comments suggest the U.S. is preparing militarily while awaiting the outcome of last-minute diplomatic efforts.
- Trump said the U.S. intends to reopen access to the Gulf/Strait of Hormuz quickly, with or without cooperation from others. He suggested that if progress stalls, the U.S. could take stronger action to “finish it off.” His remarks signal a willingness to act unilaterally if needed. The statement reflects ongoing tensions over securing the vital shipping route.
- Trump said a “good deal” would primarily mean that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon, calling that 99% of the objective. He suggested regime change may have already effectively occurred but was not an official goal. When asked about the Strait of Hormuz, he said it would reopen automatically as part of a deal. The comments link nuclear restrictions to broader regional stability.
- Donald Trump says his administration is prepared to use the full economic power of the United States to support Hungary’s economy if needed. He compares this potential support to what the U.S. has done for other allies in the past. Trump expresses strong confidence in Viktor Orbán’s leadership and its role in driving Hungary’s future prosperity. Overall, the statement signals willingness to invest in and back Hungary under Orbán’s continued leadership.
- Pope Leo XIV strongly condemned the war involving Iran, saying “God does not bless any conflict” and criticizing those who justify violence and bombing. Speaking to Eastern Catholic bishops, he emphasized that no cause can justify the killing of innocent people and called for a clear moral stance against war. Meanwhile, Amnesty International reported that civilians in southern Lebanon are struggling to access food, water, and aid due to Israeli restrictions and ongoing fighting with Hezbollah. The group warned that aid deliveries have nearly stopped and urged safe passage for civilians and unrestricted humanitarian access.
- Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said a ceasefire in Lebanon must be implemented before any diplomatic talks in Pakistan can begin. He also insisted that Iran’s frozen assets be released as a precondition for negotiations. The remarks signal Iran is setting firm demands ahead of potential talks tied to the regional conflict.
- Kamala Harris said she is considering another presidential run in 2028, telling Al Sharpton “I might” and “I’m thinking about it” during a New York conference. Her remarks are her clearest indication yet that she may pursue a third bid for the White House. Harris emphasized her experience and argued that the current political “status quo is not working,” while also criticizing Donald Trump’s policies, particularly on foreign affairs. Although early polling shows her as a leading Democratic contender, she has not made a final decision.
- Donald Trump’s administration unveiled new designs for a massive “Arc de Trump,” a proposed 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington Memorial Bridge. The structure would feature a large golden Statue of Liberty figure and patriotic inscriptions, and is being reviewed by federal planning bodies. The project is part of Trump’s effort to create a lasting legacy, though costs are still unclear and funding may combine public and private sources. The proposal remains uncertain as it faces regulatory review and potential legal challenges.
- A large new statue has reportedly been installed in the White House Rose Garden, drawing attention due to its size and unexpected appearance.
- A suspect was arrested in San Francisco after allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at Sam Altman’s home and later making threats near OpenAI’s headquarters. The attack caused minor damage to an exterior gate, but no one was injured. Police quickly identified and detained the same 20-year-old suspect following both incidents, and the investigation is ongoing. OpenAI said it is cooperating with authorities and expressed gratitude for the rapid police response.
- A California man, Chamel Abdulkarim, has been charged with multiple counts of arson after allegedly setting fires that destroyed a large Kimberly-Clark Corporation warehouse in Ontario. Authorities say he filmed himself starting the fires, posted the videos online, and expressed anti-capitalist motives, including complaints about wages. The blaze caused massive damage—estimated in the hundreds of millions of dollars—but no injuries were reported. Prosecutors say he also compared himself to Luigi Mangione, and he now faces both federal and state charges with potentially decades in prison.
- The EU said it will not follow the U.S. in cutting off China economically, emphasizing the need for foreign investment, including from China. Industry Commissioner Stéphane Séjourné described Europe’s approach as “de-risking” rather than full decoupling, meaning reducing dependence in key sectors while staying open overall. At the same time, the EU is considering stricter rules on Chinese access to public procurement and large investments. He also stressed that maintaining dialogue with China remains important.
- The U.K. will host another round of talks with 41 countries on how to restore safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz after a recent ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. These talks will be at a lower level than earlier meetings and will focus on practical solutions like sanctions and coordination with maritime organizations. The U.S. has pressured allies to present concrete plans, including possible military and logistical measures. The U.K. also opposes any tolls on ships passing through the strait, warning it could set a dangerous global precedent.
- According to Politico, Eric Swalwell’s gubernatorial campaign is facing turmoil after multiple staffers resigned ahead of a report alleging sexual assault by a former aide. Swalwell has strongly denied the accusations, calling them false and politically motivated, and says he plans to defend himself legally. The allegations surfaced as his campaign had been gaining momentum in a crowded Democratic field. The situation has raised uncertainty about the future of his candidacy.
See you soon.
— Aaron
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