The United States entered the final stretch of August 2025 with a dense lineup of political turmoil, economic maneuvering, and public unrest. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the country’s top stories as of August 24, compiled from verified English-language sources and adapted for a national audience.
Economy: Tariff Relief and Government Stake in Intel
In a move that could defuse trade tensions in North America, Canada announced the removal of 25% retaliatory tariffs on a range of U.S. imports. The decision, seen as a breakthrough after prolonged negotiations, offers breathing room to American exporters, particularly in agriculture and industrial goods.
Meanwhile, Washington made headlines with an unprecedented intervention in the tech sector. The federal government confirmed it had acquired a 10% stake in Intel. The purchase, funded through the CHIPS Act, is part of a broader national push to strengthen semiconductor manufacturing and protect U.S. interests in global supply chains.
Politics: Trump Reacts to FBI Raid on Bolton; DOJ Publishes Maxwell Interview
President Donald Trump said he was unaware of a recent FBI raid on the home of John Bolton, his former national security adviser turned vocal critic. When pressed about the incident, Trump told reporters, “I don’t want to know about it,” and dismissed Bolton as “unpatriotic.”
Vice President J.D. Vance weighed in, stating that the investigation was being handled properly and that no political interference was involved.
In a separate development, the Department of Justice released the full transcript and audio recording of its interview with Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted on multiple counts related to sex trafficking in 2022. The release follows public and media demands for greater transparency in high-profile criminal cases.
Defense and Security: National Guard Armed in D.C.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth authorized arming National Guard troops stationed in Washington, D.C., citing unspecified national security concerns. In a related move, Hegseth dismissed a top military general after a classified intelligence report reportedly clashed with the White House’s narrative on Iran.
The decision has raised eyebrows among civil liberties advocates and some lawmakers, who say the growing militarization of domestic forces sets a troubling precedent.
Social Policy: FEMA Faces Criticism Over Disaster Aid Rules
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is under fire after introducing a new rule requiring an email address to apply for disaster assistance. Critics say the policy could exclude many vulnerable citizens — particularly seniors and rural residents — who may not have easy access to digital services.
Immigration: Wrongfully Deported Man Reunited with Family
Kilmar Ábrego García, a man who was wrongfully deported under unclear circumstances, was released from detention and allowed to reunite with his family in Maryland while he awaits a formal hearing. Advocacy groups hailed the decision as a small victory in a system they say is riddled with injustice.
Civic Action: Nationwide Protests Push Back Against GOP Redistricting
Tens of thousands of people rallied in over 200 cities across the U.S. this weekend as part of the “Fight the Trump Takeover” movement. Organized by progressive groups including Indivisible and Planned Parenthood, the protests targeted Republican-led redistricting efforts, which critics argue are designed to suppress votes and entrench political power.
The demonstrations remained largely peaceful, with organizers calling for fair elections and voter protection ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Culture: Sanders Tours with Music; Major Album Releases Drop
Senator Bernie Sanders took to the stage in Chicago as part of his “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, blending politics with music. The event at UIC Dorin Forum featured performances by indie bands such as Fruit Bats and Whitney and drew a crowd of both young voters and longtime supporters.
Meanwhile, several U.S. artists launched new albums:
- Deftones released Private Music, their first studio album since 2020.
- Ciara returned with CiCi, her first major release in six years.
- Other notable drops came from Teyana Taylor, Hunx and His Punx, and post-rock band The World Is a Beautiful Place & I Am No Longer Afraid to Die.
