Hegseth Advances

A federal judge temporarily blocked President Trump’s executive order denying birthright citizenship, calling it “blatantly unconstitutional,” as Trump aims to redefine the 14th Amendment to curb illegal immigration. In Southern California, the Hughes fire has burned 10,000 acres, forced 31,000 residents to evacuate, and is 24% contained, while the smaller Sepulveda fire was quickly limited to 40 acres; worsening weather this weekend poses challenges for firefighters. Pete Hegseth, a controversial Defense Secretary nominee, moved closer to confirmation after a narrow Senate vote despite allegations of misconduct, which he denies. Scientists are concerned after the NIH canceled meetings and paused public communications pending review by a Trump appointee. Finally, President Trump signed an executive order to declassify files on the assassinations of JFK, Robert Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr., calling it a long-awaited move. Judge blocks Trump’s citizenship order (AP) SoCal Hughes fire update (CNN) Pete Hegseth passes Senate vote (NBC) NIH cancels key meetings (NPR) Trump orders release of JFK files (CNN)