The October 10–16 catch-up: a squeeze on paychecks, a $1.992 trillion deficit, a fight over California ballots, Russia sanctions relief and a court order protecting reporters’ access.
Net interest reached $1.052 trillion in fiscal 2026, exceeding defense spending. The annual deficit grew to $1.992 trillion as spending rose faster than revenue.
The government says more than 20,000 registered voters may be noncitizens. California disputes the basis for holding their mail ballots. Charges against 28 people add individual allegations, not a verdict on the full list.
Trump waived new Russia-related penalties and opened a route for Russian diesel. The records establish those concessions. They do not yet establish the promised fuel savings or a lasting energy truce.
CNN, MS NOW and Politico retain press-facility credentials under a preliminary injunction. The court found likely constitutional violations; it has not issued a final judgment.
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