The Hill
Former FIFA president questions ‘political power’ after Trump-Infantino call over Balogun red card
Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has added his voice to growing criticism of soccer's governing body after a red card suspension against U.S. forward Folarin Balogun was reversed following a phone call between President Trump and current FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. Blatter argued that disciplinary decisions must be governed by rules and independent processes, not political intervention. The episode raises serious questions about the integrity of FIFA's adjudication system ahead of a World Cup hosted on American soil.
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Trump won spending promises from NATO last year. This week, he'll try to enforce them
Trump secured commitments from NATO allies to boost defense spending last year — now comes the harder part. At this week's summit in Ankara, the president is shifting from deal-maker to enforcer, pressuring member states to follow through on their pledges. With alliance credibility on the line, the meeting will test whether Trump's hardball diplomacy produces lasting results or empty promises.
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NY man sues DHS after agents tracked him for sending an email to the head of ICE
A New York man is fighting back after federal agents surveilled him and left a warning notice at his door — all because he sent a critical email to the former head of ICE. David Streever's lawsuit against DHS raises serious First Amendment questions about whether the government is using its surveillance apparatus to intimidate citizens who voice dissent. The case could have broad implications for the right to petition federal officials without fear of retaliation.
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The Hill
Anti-incumbent mood sweeping country in troubling sign for GOP majorities
Republicans clinging to thin congressional majorities face a mounting threat as anti-incumbent sentiment reaches a fever pitch heading into the next election cycle. With Trump's approval rating sliding, the GOP bears a disproportionate share of voter frustration as the party in power. Eight House incumbents have already felt the heat, signaling that no seat should be considered safe.
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The Hill
Live updates: ‘I didn’t tell him what to do,’ Trump explains about call to FIFA chief over Folarin Balogun red card
President Trump stirred controversy in international soccer circles after reaching out to FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding a red card issued to U.S. men's national team forward Folarin Balogun. FIFA's independent disciplinary board subsequently reversed the suspension, clearing Balogun to play in the high-stakes Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Trump has since walked back concerns about improper influence, insisting he did not pressure Infantino — but the timing of the reversal has left the soccer world skeptical.
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