The latest U.S. political headlines, from Senate showdowns to major infrastructure plans.

1. 1
   Congress

   Dr. Fauci Pleads the Fifth Over 100 Times in Senate Hearing

   Former infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment repeatedly during a contentious Senate hearing on the nation's COVID-19 response. Republican lawmakers aggressively questioned Fauci, who refused to answer on the advice of his attorneys. The committee is now expected to vote on whether to hold him in contempt.

2. 2
   Foreign Policy

   U.S. and Allies Launch Retaliatory Strikes on Militias in Iraq

   The U.S. military, alongside Saudi Arabia, launched a heavy wave of retaliatory strikes against Iran-backed militias in Iraq. The strikes targeted command centers and missile facilities following earlier attacks on American bases. Tensions continue to escalate rapidly as both sides trade fresh surprise attacks in the region.

3. 3
   White House

   Trump Approval Plummets to 28% on Iran, 73% Say Priorities Are Wrong

   A new CNN and AP-NORC poll reveals that 73% of Americans believe President Trump is focused on the wrong priorities, marking a record high of frustration. His approval rating regarding his handling of the conflict with Iran has plummeted to just 28%. Support among crucial independent voters has significantly dropped, posing a major challenge for his administration.

4. 4
   Nominations

   Acting AG Todd Blanche Faces GOP Resistance on Capitol Hill

   Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is facing an uphill battle to secure permanent confirmation in the Senate. Key Republican holdouts, including Senator John Cornyn, have expressed serious concerns and canceled meetings. Without full GOP backing, Blanche's path to the permanent role remains in serious jeopardy.

5. 5
   Elections

   Joe Manchin Re-enters Political Orbit With Independent Experiment

   Former West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin has officially launched a new political initiative aimed at supporting true independent candidates. Alongside his daughter Heather, Manchin is pushing for candidates who pledge not to caucus with either the Democrats or Republicans. The effort seeks to break the two-party system's grip on Congress by fostering leaders who govern strictly in the middle.

6. 6
   Infrastructure

   President Trump Unveils $22.5B Dulles Airport Modernization

   President Trump, alongside Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, announced a $22.5 billion modernization plan for Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C. The massive infrastructure project aims to remodel the aging facility and completely eliminate its iconic but outdated people movers. The administration is touting the renovation as a major domestic achievement ahead of the midterms.