Trump Deletes Racist Video Amid GOP Criticism as Immigration Overhaul and Shutdown Loom

In a week marked by controversy and division, President Trump deleted a racist video from his social media account after facing stark criticism from both parties. The video, which depicted former President Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama as apes, was immediately condemned as racist by Democrats and drew a particularly forceful response from Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), the only Black Republican senator and a close ally of Trump. The video's deletion came as the House prepares to vote on the SAVE America Act, a rare rallying point for a divided GOP. The bill, which aims to overhaul elections, has been touted as a way to restore faith in the electoral system. However, hard-right pressure is mounting, with some Republicans pushing for more stringent measures to be included in the bill. Meanwhile, investigations into Trump's immigration crackdown continue to unfold. The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) watchdog has detailed extensive probes into hiring, interior immigration enforcement, and expedited removal of individuals by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The investigations are part of a broader effort to examine the Trump administration's handling of immigration policy. As the House prepares to vote on the SAVE America Act, a potential deal on artificial intelligence (AI) regulation may be hindered by GOP leadership. Rep. Jay Obernolte's compromise approach to AI regulation has been seen by many in the tech industry as their best hope to block state AI laws. However, it remains to be seen whether GOP leaders will support Obernolte's efforts. With just 10 days left to negotiate, a DHS shutdown appears increasingly inevitable. Democrats and Republicans can barely decide on who should be negotiating, let alone how to agree on immigration enforcement. The impasse has raised concerns about the potential consequences of a shutdown, including the impact on national security and the economy. The shutdown threat has also highlighted the deep divisions within the GOP. While some Republicans are pushing for a more hardline approach to immigration, others are advocating for a more moderate stance. The infighting has raised questions about the party's ability to govern effectively. As the clock ticks down to the shutdown deadline, lawmakers are scrambling to find a solution. However, with the parties seemingly far apart, it remains to be seen whether a deal can be reached in time. One thing is certain, however: the next 10 days will be crucial in determining the fate of the DHS and the future of immigration policy in the United States. Sources: * Trump deletes racist video of Obamas after stark GOP criticism * Elections overhaul takes center stage in House as hard-right pressure mounts * DHS watchdog details extensive probes into Trump's immigration crackdown * The Hill Republican who could get a deal on AI — if his leadership lets him * With just 10 days to negotiate, a DHS shutdown appears inevitable