Angus King

Sen. Bernie Sanders and President Donald Trump support a proposal for the federal government to gain public ownership stakes in AI companies through a one-time 50% stock tax, with proceeds placed in a sovereign wealth fund. The idea faces skepticism from some senators, who cite risks like conflicts of interest, stifled competition in government contracts, and concerns about government overreach into private companies.

President Trump's decision to seek a replacement for Bill Pulte as ODNI director may revive stalled efforts to reauthorize FISA spy powers, which are set to expire Friday. The appointment of Pulte had caused delays in Congress, but Trump's concession could help lawmakers reach a compromise on Section 702 reforms.

President Trump's decision to seek a replacement for Bill Pulte as ODNI director may revive stalled efforts to reauthorize FISA spy powers. The appointment of Pulte, criticized for lacking relevant experience, had blocked a Senate compromise on Section 702 reforms. Lawmakers are now considering a short-term extension while Trump interviews potential replacements.

Sen. Bernie Sanders criticized a Fox News Digital reporter over questions about Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner's resurfaced vulgar Reddit posts, telling the reporter to get a better job. Several Democratic senators declined to comment on Platner's posts, which include crude content and controversial statements made between 2009-2021. Platner, whom Sanders endorsed in August 2025, has attributed the posts to PTSD from his military service.

Congress is losing oversight of Pentagon spending as the Trump administration bypasses the traditional appropriations process by funding $350 billion in defense programs through reconciliation bills that require only a majority Senate vote instead of 60 votes. Rep. Ken Calvert expressed concern that critical defense programs totaling tens of billions of dollars are being funded outside the normal Congressional review process, undermining legislative oversight responsibilities.

Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) claims the U.S. war with Iran has likely cost $50 billion, double the Pentagon's estimate. The senator cited discrepancies between official figures provided by the Pentagon's acting chief financial officer, Jules Hurst III, and independent assessments.

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), a moderate Republican, stated he would leave the GOP if Pennsylvania adopted open primary elections, citing frustration with partisanship and closed primary systems. He criticized ideological rigidity in Congress and expressed support for independent candidates like Sen. John Fetterman, who often votes with Republicans.