1. Trump tightens migrant work-permit rules: Annual renewals return as the administration cracks down on temporary work authorizations and orders stricter vetting of H-1B visas to curb fraud and abuse.
2. Admiral Alvin Halsey forced out at the Pentagon: The Wall Street Journal reports Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth removed Halsey for being "too cautious," fueling rising GOP frustration with Hegseth's leadership and handling of military operations.
3. Gates Foundation warns of rising global child deaths: Declining vaccine access and reduced foreign aid could push mortality rates higher—raising broader questions about global dependence on U.S. assistance amid a $39T national debt.
4. MAGA Republicans consider deal to fund abortion & extend ACA subsidies: Elise Stefanik and allies are exploring a bipartisan package extending Obamacare subsidies and funding abortion services—drawing sharp backlash from conservatives who call it a red line.

Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise.

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