Bolton admits to retaining classified materials
John Bolton, who served as President Trump's national security advisor, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to charges of mishandling classified documents. Prosecutors said Bolton retained dozens of classified intelligence reports and handwritten notes after leaving the administration. He agreed to pay $2.25 million in fines and cooperate with investigators. The plea deal recommends a sentence of up to five years in prison.
Texas mandates Bible stories in public schools
In a separate political flashpoint, Texas education officials voted to require Bible stories as part of elementary reading curriculum starting in the 2027-2028 school year. Critics argue the mandate infringes on religious freedom and blurs separation of church and state. Supporters say the Bible is essential for understanding Western literature and history. The move is expected to face legal challenges from civil liberties groups.
House panel subpoenas Leon Black over Epstein ties
The House Oversight Committee issued subpoenas Friday demanding billionaire Leon Black testify on camera and under oath about his financial ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Black, co-founder of Apollo Global Management, walked out of a closed-door interview earlier this week. The panel is investigating whether Epstein's network enabled financial crimes that went undetected by regulators.