The Senate confirms Todd Blanche as Attorney General, and lawmakers avert a government shutdown before recess.

1. 1
   Justice Department

   Senate Narrowly Confirms Todd Blanche as Attorney General

   In an overnight session, the Senate voted 50-49 to confirm Todd Blanche as the U.S. Attorney General [1.1.1]. President Trump's former personal attorney faced opposition from all Democrats and two Republicans amid concerns over the Justice Department's independence.

2. 2
   Congress

   Senate Passes Short-Term Measure to Avoid Government Shutdown

   The U.S. Senate approved a short-term funding measure to keep federal agencies open through early December. The continuing resolution averts a partial government shutdown and allows lawmakers to depart Washington for their scheduled August recess.

3. 3
   Foreign Policy

   Iran Issues Demands to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

   Diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz have stalled after Iran demanded the U.S. lift its naval blockade and end economic sanctions. The sweeping demands complicate an ongoing agreement brokered by Oman, drawing warnings from former U.S. officials over the critical waterway's future.

4. 4
   White House

   Trump Administration Moves to Limit Birthright Citizenship

   President Trump signed executive actions this week aimed at ending birth tourism and limiting birthright citizenship protocols. The administrative moves fulfill a long-standing campaign promise but are expected to trigger immediate and severe legal challenges in federal court.

5. 5
   Legislation

   Senate Delays Vote on Crypto Clarity Act Until Fall

   Senate leadership opted to postpone voting on the Clarity Act, a major cryptocurrency and stablecoin regulation bill, until after the August recess. Bipartisan concerns remain over law enforcement funding and the potential for deposit flight from traditional banks.

6. 6
   State Department

   U.S. Partially Resumes Government Activities in Michoacán

   The U.S. government announced the partial resumption of official activities in several areas of Michoacán, Mexico, starting August 8. The decision follows improved security coordination and the implementation of new safety measures by the Mexican government.