Good evening everyone. This will be my final update tonight as I step away to have dinner with my wife and daughter.
Right now, Trump is unleashing a tirade on Truth Social—attacking his own MAGA allies, escalating rhetoric against Iran, and telling MS Now he had no prior knowledge of Melania’s statement about Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.
At the same time, I’ve been in contact with survivors throughout the day, and they are forcefully condemning the First Lady’s remarks. Their message is clear: they are not backing down, and neither am I.
As I’ve said from the start, I will not stop pushing for justice and accountability, no matter how powerful the people are who want this story to disappear. If you want this reporting to continue, subscribe and support the work. Independent media only survives if you keep it alive.
Here’s what you missed:
- Melania Trump publicly denied any meaningful connection to Jeffrey Epstein, saying she had no knowledge of his crimes and was never a victim. She pushed back hard against what she called false rumors and “smears,” insisting her limited contact with him was purely incidental through social circles. At the same time, she called on Congress to hold public hearings so survivors can testify under oath. Despite her attempt to clear her name, many pointed out that she had a much closer relationship than she let on.
- Donald Trump told MS Now he was unaware of Melania Trump’s remarks before she spoke publicly, claiming he was in a meeting about the war at the time. He quickly distanced both of them from Jeffrey Epstein, adding that “she didn’t know him,” before abruptly ending the call.
- Epstein survivors issued a response to Melania Trump emphasizing that they have already spoken out and shared their experiences. They stress that the responsibility now lies with those in positions of power to take meaningful action. The statement highlights frustration with inaction and calls for accountability. I had it first:
- Donald Trump unleashed a sharp, personal attack on Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly, Candace Owens, and Alex Jones, blasting them as “low IQ” and “losers.” The remarks mark a clear rupture with prominent figures who have operated in overlapping political and media spaces. Rather than policy disagreements, the criticism is overtly personal and dismissive.
- Despite previously agreeing to allow Iran to charge tolls, this evening, Trump is lashing out at Iran for charging tolls after facing backlash for the agreement:
- Here is Trump just yesterday saying that it will be a joint venture:
- Donald Trump is now asserting oil supplies will resume soon regardless of whether Iran cooperates. It reflects confidence that the U.S. or its allies can restore oil flow even without Iranian involvement.
- A fragile ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is increasingly at risk after Israel carried out deadly strikes on Lebanon. Iran has condemned the attacks as a direct violation of the agreement. The escalation threatens to unravel diplomatic progress made just days earlier. Overall, the situation is highly unstable and could quickly spiral back into open conflict.
- There is major confusion over whether Lebanon is included in the ceasefire terms. Iran and mediator Pakistan insist it is part of the deal, while the U.S. and Israel say it is not. This disagreement has created a dangerous gap in expectations between the parties. As a result, actions by Israel in Lebanon risk triggering broader retaliation. But, according to CBS, Trump knew that Lebanon was a part of the ceasefire when it was executed:
- Iran has issued strong warnings that continued attacks will be met with forceful retaliation. Officials have signaled that ceasefire violations will come with “explicit costs.” This rhetoric raises the stakes and increases the likelihood of renewed military escalation. The threat of the ceasefire collapsing now looms over the region.
- Army service members are claiming that Pete Hegseth lied about the severity of strikes on a base in Kuwait:
- The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively constrained despite claims of reopening. Ship traffic is minimal, and there are indications Iran may be controlling access or even placing sea mines. This disruption affects a critical global oil route and adds economic pressure to the crisis. Uncertainty around safe passage is contributing to rising energy concerns worldwide.
- Donald Trump has said U.S. military forces will remain positioned around Iran until a full agreement is secured and enforced. At the same time, he has expressed optimism that a deal is still achievable. This reflects a dual approach of maintaining pressure while pursuing diplomacy. However, ongoing violence complicates those efforts.
- The conflict has resulted in significant casualties across multiple countries. Thousands have been reported killed in Iran and Lebanon, along with deaths in Israel and among U.S. personnel. The human toll continues to rise as the situation remains unresolved. This underscores the high stakes of both the ceasefire and any potential breakdown.
- John Fetterman said he will oppose efforts in Congress to limit Donald Trump’s military actions against Iran, breaking with many fellow Democrats. He argued that the U.S. should stand behind its military and allow it to complete its objectives, emphasizing his strong support for Israel. Other lawmakers from both parties have pushed for war powers resolutions to require congressional approval for continued strikes, but those efforts have struggled to pass.
- The White House is pushing to continue construction on White House’s new $400 million ballroom, arguing it is essential for national security and the safety of Donald Trump and his family. Officials say the project includes major protective features like missile-resistant materials, bomb shelters, and secure infrastructure. A federal judge has temporarily blocked construction, questioning whether Trump has the authority to build it without congressional approval. The administration is appealing the decision and may take the case to the Supreme Court if necessary.
- NBC is reporting that the United States Department of Justice under Donald Trump is preparing a report accusing the Biden administration Justice Department of anti-Christian bias, particularly in areas like abortion clinic enforcement and Covid policies. The report stems from a task force created by Trump and is expected to be released soon, though it carries no legal authority. Critics argue the claims lack evidence and say the effort could be used to justify discrimination under the guise of religious freedom. Overall, it reflects a broader political clash over religion, law enforcement, and civil rights.
- The Environmental Protection Agency under Donald Trump is proposing to loosen regulations on how coal plants dispose of toxic coal ash, which contains hazardous materials like mercury and arsenic. The plan would give states more flexibility in setting groundwater protection standards and monitoring practices. Officials say the changes would support the energy industry, but environmental groups warn it could increase risks to drinking water and public health. The proposal sets up a clash between industry priorities and environmental protections.
See you in the morning.
— Aaron
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