Federal-State Relations (US)
- California Drops Lawsuit Over $4 Billion Federal Cut to High-Speed Rail Project - California sued after the Trump administration cut grants for the long-planned project. The state says it will seek private investors instead.
- The White House Is Just ‘Trying to Keep Grandpa Busy’ - Jamelle Bouie, Michelle Cottle and David French convene to discuss the year that was.
- Democratic State Lawmakers Vow to Unite and Push Back on Trump’s Deportations - Lawmakers from a half-dozen states said Thursday they will use legislation next year to thwart the tactics of federal law enforcement carrying out immigration policies.
- Appeals Court Allows National Guard to Remain in D.C., for Now - A three-judge panel voted unanimously to allow troops to stay in the capital for the duration of the appeal, citing the city’s unique legal status.
- Heating Costs Expected to Rise 9.2% This Winter - Colder weather and rising electricity and fuel costs will lead to a big jump in costs for individuals, according to estimates from a group representing state energy officials.
- Trump’s Cuts Hobbled US Labor Board, Leaving Festering Disputes and a Power Struggle - Advocates fear damage to labor protections if the Supreme Court upholds the president’s move to control federal agency staffing.
- California Hires Former C.D.C. Officials Who Criticized Trump Administration - A former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and a former chief medical officer of the agency will advise the state on public health issues.
- Appeals Court Says Trump Must End Los Angeles Deployment by Monday - While the decision did not remove the National Guard troops from the president’s control, it blocked him from using them in the nation’s second-largest city.
- Indiana Lawmakers Reject Trump’s New Political Map - Republicans hold an overwhelming majority in the Indiana Senate, but more than a dozen of them defied the president’s wishes, voting against a map aimed at adding Republicans in Congress.
- Republicans Are Fighting With One Another in Deep-Red Indiana. Here’s Why. - Some Republicans in the Indiana Senate have resisted a new congressional map despite lobbying from the White House and threats of political consequences.