Kush Desai
Coverage of Kush Desai in the Nexus archive.
- Doctors say Trump's vaccine order will raise fears, cause confusion and endanger kids
Donald Trump signed an executive order proposing to separate the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine into three single-disease shots and conduct childhood immunizations in separate appointments. Doctors strongly criticized this order, stating it is scientifically unsound and likely to cause confusion among parents at a time when measles rates are increasing. Experts emphasized that combination vaccines offer better immune responses compared to separating the diseases.
- FAA is investigating why a plane was allowed to take off as President Trump’s helicopter approached
The FAA is investigating an incident where a commercial plane was allowed to take off as President Trump's helicopter approached Reagan National Airport, potentially violating safety procedures established after a 2025 midair collision. The FAA confirmed a 'momentary loss of separation' occurred, but no collision risk existed, and both the White House and Marine Corps stated there was no danger to the president.
- Democratic-led states sue to block Trump’s latest wave of tariffs
25 Democratic-led states sued President Donald Trump’s administration to block new tariffs on goods from 60 countries, including China and the European Union. The lawsuit argues the tariffs, imposed under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, are illegal and part of an ongoing tariff scheme after prior penalties were invalidated by courts.
- Trump promised ‘rocket fuel.’ The economy got a ‘big yawn’ housing bill and higher debt than defense costs instead
President Donald Trump's efforts to lower interest rates have failed, leading to higher borrowing costs and increased national debt servicing expenses exceeding defense spending. The Iran war and Trump's policies, including tariffs and AI data center investments, have contributed to rising oil prices and inflation, complicating economic conditions ahead of midterms.
- Trump wanted interest rate cuts to be 'Rocket Fuel' for the economy. He is losing that fight so far
President Donald Trump has been unsuccessful in his push for interest rate cuts, as the Federal Reserve under Kevin Warsh has maintained high rates amid rising inflation and increased borrowing costs. The ongoing war in Iran has contributed to higher oil prices and interest rates, complicating Trump's economic agenda ahead of the midterm elections.
- Trump wanted interest rate cuts to be 'Rocket Fuel' for the economy. He is losing that fight so far
President Donald Trump has been advocating for interest rate cuts to stimulate economic growth, but rising rates since the war in Iran began have contradicted his promises. Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh acknowledged persistent inflation without clear solutions, while Treasury bonds reached near-decade highs. Trump attributes economic challenges to the Iran conflict and claims resolving it will lower rates.
- Trump broke his promise to lower — and eliminate — the national debt. A top investor thinks he’s the ‘worst-spending president in history’
The U.S. national debt reached $39.5 trillion in June, with President Trump accused of adding $2.2–2.3 trillion annually to the debt. Tech investor Jason Calacanis labeled Trump the 'worst-spending president in history,' citing broken campaign promises to reduce the debt. The debt now amounts to $113,000 per person, with interest payments exceeding $1 trillion in 2023.
- Bridge built, but not quite open: Confusion reigns over Gordie Howe launch date
The construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is complete, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security states it is ready for opening. However, escalating U.S.-Canada trade tensions and conflicting statements from officials have delayed a clear launch date, with Canada setting July 27 as the opening day while U.S. authorities remain noncommittal.
- Analysis: Trump embraces ‘Great Equivocator’ role sending mixed signals that vex markets and allies
President Donald Trump sends mixed signals on major issues, such as the Iran ceasefire agreement, oscillating between contradictory statements. His approach, described as the 'Great Equivocator' role, creates confusion for markets and allies, with experts noting it erodes credibility while allowing political flexibility.
- The Social Sciences Are in Trouble
The Trump administration has proposed cutting the National Science Foundation's budget in half and eliminating its Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences division, which funds most U.S. social science research. The NSF's board was disbanded, and the SBE division's current budget is two-thirds smaller, with only five grants awarded this year compared to 250 in a typical year.
- Poll: Trump’s economic message isn't breaking through
A poll shows Americans remain unconvinced by President Donald Trump's economic message, with many citing the Iran war as worsening their financial situation. Over half of respondents still describe the cost of living as the worst they can remember, and a majority blame Trump for economic issues, with the war driving up gas, food, and flight prices.
- White House leaves door open to Chinese investment
The White House is open to discussing Chinese direct investment in the US during President Trump's Beijing visit, though officials maintain national security won't be compromised. MAGA Republicans expressed outrage over reports of a potential $1 trillion Chinese investment offer in exchange for fewer security restrictions. Treasury and Commerce officials previously rejected the idea of Chinese firms manufacturing electric vehicles in the US.
- Nonprofits say they are in a crisis
The US nonprofit sector is facing a crisis due to federal funding cuts, with 66% of nonprofits concerned about financial stability and 39% reporting a deficit. Demand for services has increased amid higher inflation and cuts to federal programs. The sector receives at least $240 billion in government grants annually.
- Trump Promised Cheaper Drugs. Some Prices Dropped. Many Others Shot Up.
President Donald Trump has announced initiatives to reduce prescription drug costs, but the impact is uncertain and many prices have increased. Americans pay about three times as much as people in other countries for the same drugs. The effectiveness of Trump's efforts remains to be seen.
- White House puts Whitmer on notice about who is 'actually delivering' on US manufacturing jobs
The White House criticized Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer for not delivering on manufacturing jobs, crediting President Trump's tariffs and deregulation for a $43.4 million steel company expansion in Michigan. The Adrian Steel Company expansion, which will create 40 jobs, highlights political tensions over trade policies, with Whitmer arguing Trump's tariffs harm Michigan industries.
- White House puts Whitmer on notice about who is 'actually delivering' on US manufacturing jobs
The White House praised President Trump's tariffs for driving manufacturing growth in Michigan, contrasting with Governor Gretchen Whitmer's criticism of tariffs' negative impact on industries. Adrian Steel Company announced a $43.4 million expansion in Michigan, creating 40 jobs, which both parties claimed as a victory. Whitmer highlighted state incentives like the SESA tax break, while Trump's new tariff framework aims to boost manufacturing.
- "The Amtrak of the skies"? Trump's interventionism comes for Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is in advanced talks with the Trump administration for a potential $500 million government loan, which could give the U.S. government up to 90% ownership. The move has sparked debate over economic interventionism and parallels to past bailouts, with critics arguing it creates unfair competition and supporters emphasizing job preservation.
- Miami Catholic Charities loses $11M contract providing care for migrant children under Trump administration
The Trump administration canceled a $11 million contract with Miami Catholic Charities, which had provided care for migrant children for over 60 years, citing reduced illegal immigration. Archbishop Thomas Wenski criticized the decision, warning services would shut down within three months, while the administration defended it as cost-saving due to fewer border crossings.