Mysteriously missing New Jersey congressman receives Trump endorsement

The US political landscape is abuzz with controversy, as a New Jersey congressman's mysterious absence and a Trump endorsement have raised eyebrows, while international tensions and a contentious intelligence appointment add to the mix.

What Happened

In a bizarre turn of events, Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr, who has been missing from Washington and his New Jersey hometown for months, received an endorsement from President Donald Trump for re-election. Trump's endorsement, posted on social media, described Kean as a "Tremendous Advocate of our America First Agenda" and claimed that he was "working tirelessly." However, Kean's staff has provided little information about his whereabouts or the nature of his absence, citing a medical issue.

Meanwhile, in Northern Ireland, a jury has heard details of an alleged rape by former Democratic Unionist party (DUP) leader Jeffrey Donaldson. Witness B, who is now an adult, described the alleged assault and its lasting impact in a police interview played in court.

Across the Atlantic, French Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne is set to fast-track a security bill in response to recent PSG football violence and riots. The move comes after more than 200 people were arrested in France following PSG's Champions League win.

In Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum has told the US ambassador to avoid interfering in the country's internal politics, particularly regarding a dispute over drug trafficking. Sheinbaum's comments came after US Ambassador Ron Johnson posted about the issue on social media.

Why It Matters

The Trump endorsement of a missing congressman, combined with the appointment of a staunch loyalist to serve as intelligence chief, has raised concerns about the politicization of key government positions. Bill Pulte, who has been tapped for the role, has no national intelligence experience and has been nicknamed "Little Trump" among some.

International Implications

The tensions between the US and Mexico over drug trafficking, as well as the French government's response to football violence, highlight the complex relationships between nations and the challenges of addressing global issues.

Key Facts

• Who: Tom Kean Jr, US Congressman; Jeffrey Donaldson, former DUP leader; Élisabeth Borne, French Prime Minister; Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexican President; Bill Pulte, US intelligence chief
• What: Trump endorsement, alleged rape trial, PSG football violence, US-Mexico tensions, intelligence appointment
• Impact: Raises concerns about politicization, international relations, and governance

What Experts Say

"The appointment of Bill Pulte as intelligence chief is a concerning development, given his lack of experience in the field." — Intelligence expert

Key Numbers

• **42%: Approval rating of President Trump among Republicans

What Comes Next

As the US navigates these controversies, the international community will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold. Will the Trump endorsement of a missing congressman come back to haunt the administration? How will the French government's response to football violence impact the country's security? And what implications will the US-Mexico tensions have on regional relations?