
A federal judge in Seattle has temporarily blocked President Trump’s executive order that aimed to end birthright citizenship. Judge John Coughenour, a Ronald Reagan appointee, called the order “blatantly unconstitutional” and granted the emergency request by Washington Attorney General Nick Brown and three other Democratic-led states. The order will be halted for 14 days while there are more briefings in the legal challenge. Judge Coughenour expressed disbelief at the executive order, stating that he couldn’t remember another case where the constitutional question presented was as clear.
Trump Says He Will ‘Demand’ Federal Reserve Cut Interest Rates ‘Immediately’
President Trump, speaking at the World Economic Forum, demanded that interest rates drop immediately. This statement comes as he begins his second term and reignites his contentious relationship with the Fed, despite having appointed its chairman, Jerome Powell. The market showed little reaction, though the 2-year Treasury yield dipped slightly. Trump has not yet discussed his views on monetary policy in his second term but has previously indicated he should have a say in rate decisions. Fed officials emphasize their independence, which is considered crucial for market stability. Trump’s comments come ahead of the Fed’s two-day policy meeting next week, with markets expecting no rate cuts at this meeting.
Bird Flu Outbreak Could Push Eggs Above $5 a Dozen Soon
The 2024 bird flu outbreak has had a catastrophic impact on the poultry industry, leading to the deaths of a record number of egg-laying hens. This has severely constrained the supply of eggs, pushing prices higher, perhaps to above $5 a dozen on average nationwide. The outbreak has affected both commercial and backyard flocks, making it difficult for farmers to replenish their hen populations. The rising cost of eggs has burdened consumers, particularly those with limited incomes. Eggs are a staple food for many, and their price increase has forced households to adjust their budgets and seek alternatives.
Mexico Building Tent Cities for Migrants Flowing Back Across Border
Mexico is preparing for a potential influx of deportees from the US by erecting tent shelters in border cities like Ciudad Juárez, Nogales, Matamoros, and Piedras Negras. The Mexican government is also constructing nine shelters and repurposing existing facilities in Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, and Matamoros to accommodate migrants whose asylum appointments in the U.S. were canceled. These preparations come as the Trump administration implements stricter immigration policies, including expedited removal, which allows for the deportation of undocumented immigrants without court proceedings. This policy has been expanded to apply nationwide, potentially enabling the largest deportation program in US history.
Nepal Hikes Everest Fee as Crowds of Hikers Attempt Summit
Nepal has announced a 36% increase in permit fees for those wishing to climb Mount Everest. The new fee of $15,000 will take effect in September and apply to the popular April-May climbing season. The less popular September-November and rarely climbed December-February seasons will also see a 36% fee increase to $7,500 and $3,750, respectively. The permit fee increase, the first in nearly a decade, is not expected to discourage climbers. Expedition organizers view it as an understandable step and hope the additional funds will be used to protect the environment and improve safety on the mountain.