The DOGE mindset is still central to the Trump administration's agenda as 2025 ends The Department of Government Efficiency effort was one of the most consequential and controversial – if not entirely successful – changes the Trump administration made in 2025. Stephen Fowler
NPR analysis shows skyrocketing number of 'no-shows' in immigration court More immigrants are not showing up for their mandatory immigration court hearings compared to prior years, an NPR analysis shows, allowing the government to order their immediate deportation. Rahul Mukherjee
Turning Point USA's conference exposes underlying rifts in the Republican Party Division over the future of the Republican Party were on display this weekend as conservatives gathered for Turning Point USA's "AmericaFest" conference in Phoenix, Arizona. Elena Moore
Vance refuses to set red lines over bigotry at Turning Point USA's convention Vice President JD Vance acknowledged the controversies that dominated the Turning Point conference, but he did not define any boundaries for the conservative movement besides patriotism. The Associated Press
Lawmakers threaten Attorney General Bondi with contempt over incomplete Epstein files The Justice Department is defending its initial release of documents related to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, saying lawyers are still going through them to ensure victims are protected. Andrea Hsu
Politics chat: Redacted Epstein files released; Trump under pressure about economy Extensive redactions of the Epstein files add to the political pressure President Trump is already under for his handling of the economy. Ayesha Rascoe
'Congress is in a coma.' Former lawmakers sound alarm on health of the House Congress is wrapping up the year without a lot of legislative accomplishments under its belt and a growing list of lawmakers who are retiring. Former members say the challenges on Capitol Hill have been brewing for a long time. Barbara Sprunt
Apple, Google tell workers on visas to avoid leaving the U.S. amid Trump immigration crackdown With months-long consulate and embassy delays being reported, the two tech companies say staying put in the U.S. right now could prevent workers from getting stranded in their home countries. Bobby Allyn
North Carolina's Lumbee Tribe receives full federal recognition after 137-year effort The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has finally received full federal recognition, which it has sought since 1888. Tribal leaders were moved to tears after President Trump signed the measure. Kristin Wright
Available to download Friday, some Epstein files no longer there Saturday afternoon An NPR analysis of the Epstein files shows some documents, originally available on Friday, are no longer on the Department of Justice's "Epstein Library" website as the DOJ releases more files. Casey Morell
