Fed Independence Under Fire: Jerome Powell warned that politicizing the Federal Reserve would erode public trust, citing pressure to fire Fed officials and even criminal probes as “stress tests” for democratic institutions. Hungary Power Struggle: Hungary’s new PM Péter Magyar vowed to change the constitution to remove President Tamás Sulyok, calling him an Orbán “puppet,” while Sulyok said he would challenge any move and consult the Venice Commission. US Weaponization Fund Stalled: Trump’s nearly $1.8bn settlement fund for alleged “weaponisation” victims was paused after Republican pushback in Congress, as senators demanded clarity and immigration funding talks stalled. Ohio School DEI Fight: Ohio Senate Bill 113 faced mounting criticism for being vague and potentially chilling hiring and recruitment, with opponents warning it could harm students. Kosovo Election Crisis: Kosovo heads toward new elections after a presidency-centered deadlock, with observers warning the vote may not break the months-long impasse. Philippines Senate Accountability Clash: The Senate minority bloc said a majority no-show was a “boycott” tied to Jinggoy Estrada’s arrest, not an independence move. South Africa Party Funding Scrutiny: Watchdogs warned wealthy donors are bypassing transparency as IEC disclosures show parties collected over R97m ahead of 2026 local elections. Australia Senate Math: Polling suggests One Nation could surge toward major Senate gains, reshaping balance-of-power calculations even if it falls short of control.