Key Takeaways
- Tucker Stewart, a political appointee at USDA, faces backlash over a sexually explicit story shared on Capitol Hill.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defends tariffs but indicates refunds could occur if the Supreme Court rules against Trump’s authority.
- The House will consider reauthorizing the federal grain inspection program, along with farmers urging for immediate assistance amid financial uncertainty.
Controversy Surrounding Tucker Stewart
Tucker Stewart, a deputy assistant secretary at the USDA, is under scrutiny for a 28-page sexually explicit story he supposedly authored. The narrative, which describes the exploits of a cowboy in Washington, D.C., was shared among fellow staffers when Stewart worked for Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kan). Despite requests for comment, neither Stewart nor the USDA has responded. In a separate incident last year, a TikTok video surfaced showing Stewart in boxer shorts in a congressional office before dressing for the day. The video has since been deleted.
Bessent Addresses Tariff Concerns
In a recent appearance on NBC’s Meet the Press, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the administration’s use of tariffs, stressing that the government would implement refunds if the Supreme Court decides President Trump overstepped his authority in imposing them. Bessent dismissed worries over recent poor job numbers, arguing that the strong stock market suggests the administration’s policies are effective. He noted that feedback from various companies indicates that tariffs have benefited their operations, countering concerns from industries such as John Deere.
House to Consider Grain Inspection Program
The House is preparing to deliberate a five-year reauthorization of the federal grain inspection program, with aims to modernize the approach by promoting the adoption of new technology. The proposed bill would exempt technology expenses from a cap on administrative costs, enabling more flexibility in funding improvements.
Pork Producers Lobby for Proposition 12 Reform
Members of the National Pork Producers Council are in Washington, D.C., advocating for legislation to amend Proposition 12, which imposes specific sow housing requirements. To raise awareness, they will set up a food truck on Capitol Hill, offering themed menu items related to the Farm Bill. The National Farmers Union is also present in D.C., urging lawmakers to finalize the farm bill and provide immediate support for struggling farmers facing financial challenges.
EPA Initiatives to Combat Food Waste
The Environmental Protection Agency has launched a new initiative to reduce food waste by connecting food donors with families in need. Announced by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the program aims to alleviate food waste, with an earlier report indicating that consumers lose approximately $728 each year due to wasted food.
Canada Lifts Some Tariffs on U.S. Goods
Canada has lifted a 25% tariff on several U.S. products while maintaining tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles. Prime Minister Mark Carney had previously announced his intention to remove these tariffs following an agreement concerning compliance with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement.
Founding Farmers Restaurant Receives Second Review
The Founding Farmers restaurant in Washington, D.C., received a mixed review from a critic after a nine-year gap since the last appraisal. Although improvements were noted in certain menu items, such as wings and cornbread, other items like the meatloaf remained underwhelming. The critic advised potential diners to focus on the restaurant’s strengths in chicken, fish, and generous portions of greens.
Final Thought
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the administration’s commitment to economic policies designed to benefit the American people, stating, “President Trump was elected for change. And we are going to push through with the economic policies that are going to set the economy right.”
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