A federal judge has blocked Elon Musk’s department of government efficiency (DOGE) from accessing sensitive treasury records, ruling it illegal. The decision follows a lawsuit by 19 Democratic attorneys general, arguing DOGE’s access could lead to illegal actions against federal payments, compromising millions of Americans’ financial security.
The Alaska Legislature passed a resolution urging President Trump to maintain the name Denali for the state’s highest peak, emphasizing its cultural and historical significance. The resolution reflects bipartisan support to reject Trump’s executive order to restore the name Mount McKinley.
Elon Musk reinstated Marko Elez, a former DOGE employee who resigned after being linked to a racist social media account. A poll conducted on Musk’s platform, X, showed 78% in favor of rehiring him. US vice president JD Vance supported Elez’s return and Musk cited forgiveness in his decision.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau voiced concern over US President Trump’s comments about making Canada the 51st state, driven by the country’s critical mineral resources. Canada has taken measures to counter potential tariffs, investing in border security and emphasising economic diversification to reduce reliance on the US.
President Trump has halted US aid to South Africa, citing concerns over the new Expropriation Act that allegedly discriminates against the white minority. The US criticizes the land reform law, while South Africa argues it seeks to rectify historical inequalities without arbitrary land seizures.
USAID is under heavy scrutiny after a Trump administration crackdown and a 90-day pause in foreign assistance. Concerns over the agency’s expenditures, including funding initiatives in LGBTQ and other social domains, have been raised. The list of controversial spending includes significant amounts for projects in diverse regions, sparking debates about the agency’s accountability.
US lawmakers have introduced a bill to ban the Chinese AI program DeepSeek on government devices due to national security risks linked to its ties with the Chinese government. This follows evidence suggesting the program can transmit user data to China Mobile, highlighting serious concerns over data security.
A teenage girl in Shanghai accidentally sold her mother’s jewellery, worth one million yuan, for 60 yuan to buy lip studs and earrings. Believing the items were fake, she made the sale. Police quickly traced and recovered the valuables, returning them to the mother.
Nasa employees have been directed to remove all pronouns from emails and other applications following an executive order from the Trump administration. In response, Nasa disabled the ability to add pronouns in user displays and mandated uniform signature blocks. Public materials referencing gender identity were also affected.
A Boston University employee is criticised for posting a graphic accusing DOGE staff of treason. Elon Musk, who leads DOGE, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have both responded, highlighting the controversial nature of the department’s role and influence in government operations.