Congress Pushes for Release of Jeffrey Epstein Files as Trump Family Launches Cryptocurrency Business

In this morning’s update, here’s what you need to know:

A group of bipartisan lawmakers are pushing for a vote today aimed at compelling the Trump administration to disclose more details from Jeffrey Epstein’s case files. The Justice Department initially pledged transparency but later claimed there was no additional information to release, sparking controversy. Notably, President Trump was once a close associate of Epstein before their relationship soured in the early 2000s. Some of Epstein’s victims, including Lisa Phillips, are scheduled to appear at the Capitol today.

Trump’s family-owned cryptocurrency business, World Liberty Financial, went public on Monday, adding an estimated $5 billion to their wealth. The business, co-founded by Trump and his sons, was previously dismissed by Trump as a scam, but he has since expressed support for crypto and voiced ambitions to establish the U.S. as a global leader in cryptocurrency.

China showcased its military and diplomatic might at a parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end. The event brought together leaders from China, North Korea, and Russia for the first time since the Cold War era. Attendees included representatives from 26 nations, including Slovakia, Serbia, and Cuba. No Western leaders were present at the gathering.

An increasing number of states are enforcing bans on student devices during school hours, citing improved learning in phone-free environments. The policy has garnered support across party lines, leading to its rapid implementation in red and blue states alike. However, not everyone is convinced of its merits.

South Africa’s Ndlovu Youth Choir has unveiled a Zulu-language rendition of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The choir rose to international fame on America’s Got Talent in 2019 and now marks the first time Queen has permitted a translation of their iconic rock song. Incorporating African musical traditions, the new version blends elements from isicathamiya township music with Congolese swing known as kwassa kwassa. Listen to a sample or learn more about this exciting project.

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