Monday, June 30, 2025
All civic learning topics for this day
Today's Topics
White House fires 17 inspectors general in violation of federal oversight law
The Trump administration has systematically weaponized federal agencies to target over 100 perceived enemies, firing 19 inspectors general, forcing 22 states to sue over funding cuts, and transforming the Justice Department into a personal revenge operation. From Pam Bondi's DOJ purges to billion-dollar university funding cuts to $1 spending limits that cripple basic government operations, this represents the most comprehensive assault on democratic institutions in American history.
Republicans ask Supreme Court to eliminate final campaign finance limits
The Supreme Court agreed to hear National Republican Senatorial Committee v. FEC, challenging the final limits on political party coordinated spending with candidates. This case, filed by JD Vance and Republican committees, could complete the destruction of campaign finance law begun with Citizens United in 2010.
Lindsey Graham claims sole power to decide budget law compliance
Senate Budget Committee Chair Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) secured an unprecedented ruling giving him sole authority to decide if provisions in Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" violate the 1974 Congressional Budget Act. This breaks 50 years of Senate procedure where multiple committees and the parliamentarian review budget compliance, concentrating power in one senator as the $5 trillion megabill advances toward Trump's July 4 deadline.
AI Safety Alliance launches six-figure Washington lobbying campaign
The Alliance for Secure AI, led by CEO Brendan Steinhauser, launched a six-figure advertising campaign targeting Washington D.C. lawmakers to build rare left-right cooperation on artificial intelligence regulation. After officially launching June 3rd at the National Press Club, the group warns that advanced AI poses existential risks requiring immediate bipartisan action, as experts predict 20% U.S. unemployment from automation while China races to develop AGI first.