Today’s Headlines: Republican lawmakers in Texas released a redistricting plan that would add five GOP-leaning congressional seats by slicing up Democratic cities—like moving part of Austin into a district with oil-rich Odessa—just ahead of a special legislative session called by Governor Abbott. Meanwhile, the Trump administration launched a new health data-sharing program with over 60 tech firms, and separately proposed major crypto reforms, urging Congress to treat digital assets like securities while pushing for IRS and regulatory rollbacks. Brown University agreed to dismantle its DEI programs in a $50 million deal to unfreeze federal funds, while Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands ramped up pressure on Israel over Gaza, warning of consequences if annexation continues. Trump is expected to greenlight a new Gaza aid distribution plan after today’s regional visits by U.S. envoys. He also extended Mexico tariff talks by 90 days, delaying steep levies on cars, metals, and fentanyl-linked goods. Lastly, the CDC reported a rise in kindergarten vaccine exemptions and the highest number of measles cases in over three decades.

Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode:

AP News: Texas Republicans get a bigger House edge under a new map, meeting Trump's goals

Axios: The White House is pushing to embed crypto everywhere, from taxes to retirement

CNN: Trump administration reaches $50 million deal with Brown University to restore funding

Reuters: Germany to respond to any unilateral Israeli moves on Palestinian territories, minister warns

Middle East Eye: Sweden and the Netherlands call for EU to suspend Israel trade deal

Axios: Trump to approve new Gaza aid plan after Witkoff visits Friday: White House

NPR: Trump announces 90-day extension of prior trade deal with Mexico

WIRED: The Great Crypto Re-Banking Has Begun

NBC News: Childhood vaccine exemption rates hit a record high, CDC data shows

Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson

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