Jill Biden aide refuses to answer questions on former president's decline
Anthony Bernal, who served as chief of staff to the former first lady, pleaded the fifth amendment when questioned by House Republicans on Wednesday.
Mr Bernal was subpoenaed for his testimony by the House oversight committee as part of an investigation into Joe Biden's mental decline.
'Well, unfortunately, that was quick,' said James Comer, chairman of the House oversight committee, when Mr Bernal invoked the amendment, which prevents people from being forced to testify against themselves.
Mr Comer, a Kentucky representative, added: 'I believe the American people are concerned. They're concerned that there were people making decisions in the White House that were not only unelected but no one to this day knows who they were.'
Democrats have been widely criticised for not facing up to the former president's deterioration.
The 82-year-old pulled out of the 2024 presidential race amid pressure from his party after a disastrous appearance in the first televised election debate against Donald Trump.
A new book written by CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios correspondent Alex Thompson alleges the administration covered up the extent of his decline.
Despite clear signs, the former president, his family and senior White House officials pushed ahead with his re-election campaign, the book claims.
The apparent cover-up allegedly allowed others in the administration – including Jill Biden, the first lady – to seize influence.
Democrats have dismissed the Republican probe into Mr Biden's time in office as political theatre, with several Senators boycotting the proceedings altogether.
On Wednesday, Mr Bernal ignored questions from reporters as he entered and exited the House oversight committee's hearing room on Capitol Hill.
He was accompanied by his lawyer, Jonathan Su, who was a deputy White House counsel to the former president.
'This is corruption at the highest level, because if you cannot answer a simple question about Joe Biden's capabilities, then that further demonstrates that he was not in charge of his administration,' said Byron Donalds, a Florida representative, present at the deposition.
A statement provided by Mr Su to the committee noted that pleading the Fifth is not evidence of wrongdoing.
Mr Comer has not ruled out seeking testimony from Kamala Harris or members of Mr Biden's family.
'We're going to bring in everyone. We're moving up the line,' Mr Comer said. 'So we'll see where that takes us. But I think the possibility is very good that we'll be asking members of the family to come in.'
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Trump tariffs live updates: Trump threatens India with 25% tariff, sets copper and Brazil levies
President Trump on Wednesday made a slew of moves on the tariff front, threatening a 25% tariff on goods from India and slapping massive 50% tariffs on goods from Brazil. Trump also suggested that beginning Aug. 1, India could pay an additional penalty because of its ties with Russia. 'India has been a good friend, but India has charged basically more tariffs than almost any other country," Trump said. Trump also signed several orders Wednesday: One order imposes 50% tariffs on copper imports. Following a Section 232 investigation, the Trump administration is imposing a 50% tariff on semi-finished copper products and copper-intensive derivative products on Aug. 1, but has excluded copper scrap and copper input materials. Another order ends the so-called de minimis exemption, thereby applying tariffs to low-value imports that have evaded duties. That measure takes effect Aug. 29 and applies to goods that are valued at or under $800 that had qualified for that tax-free treatment, according to a White House fact sheet. The final order imposes the 50% tariffs on imports from Brazil, which Trump had threatened earlier this month. The order says former President Jair Bolsonaro, currently standing trial for his alleged participation in a coup attempt, has been a victim of "political persecution." The order appears to include exemptions for key US imports, including orange juice and aircraft parts. Trump also again said he would not extend Friday's deadline for new tariff levels to kick in. Trump confirmed this week that 15% represents the new tariff "floor" for countries, whose rates he has been dictating to leaders in letters in the absence of trade deals. Meanwhile, the US and China concluded their latest round of tariff and trade talks in Sweden on Tuesday, with both sides touting progress but without an immediate announcement of a further tariff delay. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said President Trump would make the final call on extending the trade truce between the world's two largest economies before an Aug. 12 deadline. Also, the US and EU are racing to lock in the final details of their major new trade deal before Friday. Top EU critics say it's a rushed fix. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called the outcome unsatisfying, and France's Bayrou dubbed the EU's "submission" a "dark day." Read more: What Trump's tariffs mean for the economy and your wallet Here are the latest updates as the policy reverberates around the world. Powell on tariff-related price increases: Companies will 'cross the street in a group' Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said on Wednesday that the central bank is seeing the "early beginnings" of tariff inflation on goods. "They'll cross the street in a group," Powell said of companies raising prices together, citing as an example the price hikes on both washing machines and dryers that occurred during the first Trump administration, even though only washing machine imports faced higher tariffs. Powell's comments echoed some of what we've heard from companies so far this earnings season. While companies haven't hiked prices across the board, some with businesses most exposed to President Trump's tariffs have noted that they will raise prices to protect margins and offset higher costs. Procter & Gamble (PG), for instance, said on Tuesday it would raise prices by about 2.5% across its portfolio. Mondelez (MDLZ) also said it plans to raise prices, though with a "surgical" approach amid some signs of consumer stress. And L'Oréal affirmed plans to raise prices to offset higher costs from tariffs. Graco Inc. (GGG), a Minneapolis-based industrial equipment manufacturer, said it waited to see what its competitors did on price before taking a price increase. "That gave us the opportunity and the confidence to know that we could also do the same thing," CEO Mark Sheahan said. Read more live coverage of corporate earnings. Trump ends tariff break for low-value goods in blow to online retailers President Trump is ending a policy that spared lower-value goods from being impacted by tariffs. The policy will come to an end in late August and will impact goods valued at less than $800. Bloomberg reports: Read more here from Bloomberg. Trump signs order to justify 50% tariffs on Brazil President Trump has imposed 50% tariffs on Brazil by citing a 1977 law that revolves around the prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro. AP reports: Read more here. Fed's Powell speaks on tariff effects on inflation: 'It doesn't feel like we're very close to the end' Fed Chair Jerome Powell said on Wednesday that increased tariffs are beginning to push up inflation in some categories, but longer-term inflation expectations remain anchored around the central bank's 2% goal. "Higher tariffs have begun to show through more clearly to prices of some goods, but their overall effects on economic activity and inflation remain to be seen," Powell said in a press conference after the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady. Powell reiterated that central bank policymakers remain in wait-and-see mode. Though two policymakers dissented during the FOMC's meeting for the first time since 1993, as the effects of President Trump's tariff policies have divided central banker. 'It's been a very dynamic time for these trade negotiations, and lots and lots of events in the intermeeting period," Powell continued. "But we're still, you know, a ways away from seeing where things settle down." "It doesn't feel like we're very close to the end of that [trade negotiation] process, and that's not for us to judge, but it feels like there's much more to come." Trump administration announces 50% tariffs on some copper imports President Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday to impose 50% tariffs on certain copper imports starting Aug. 1. According to a White House fact sheet, "The Proclamation imposes universal 50% tariffs on imports of semi-finished copper products (such as copper pipes, wires, rods, sheets, and tubes) and copper-intensive derivative products (such as pipe fittings, cables, connectors, and electrical components), effective August 1." The measure came after a US investigation under Section 323, which US President Donald Trump ordered in February. The tariffs do not apply to the copper content of a product and they do not stack with auto 232 tariffs. Copper input materials (such as copper ores, concentrates, mattes, cathodes, and anodes) and copper scrap are also exempt from the measure. Read more here from Reuters. Trump's trade deals come with few details to flesh out big numbers President Trump has announced a flurry of trade agreements, but many so far are proving light on detail, with key aspects still under negotiation, partners giving mixed signals about what they signed up for, and big numbers shrinking under scrutiny. Bloomberg reports: Read more here. Hershey grows optimistic about cocoa tariff exemption as the company cuts guidance Hershey (HSY) is hoping for a Trump administration reprieve on tariffs as rising cocoa prices weigh on its full-year outlook. "I would say that we are even more optimistic now," Hershey CEO Michele Buck said on the company's earnings call. "As we've had conversations over the past several months, we have become increasingly comfortable that the government administration understands some of our concerns about the fact that cocoa can only be grown and sourced outside of the US." Buck cited comments from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in recent days that left the door open for an exemption for cocoa products. "If you grow something and we don't grow it, that can come in for zero [tariffs]," Lutnick said on CNBC's Squawk Box on Tuesday. "So if we do a deal with a country that grows mangos, pineapple, then they can come in without a tariff. ... Coffee and cocoa will be other examples of natural resources," Lutnick added. Hershey plans to raise prices, though Buck stated that the price increases "had nothing to do with tariffs." For the year, Hershey expects to see a $170 million to $180 million cost headwind from tariffs. "We'll continue to press on tariffs relative to the cocoa exemption," Buck said, adding: "That's sort of out of our control, but [we] continue to lean there." India-US trade talks go off rails on row over farm markets Indian officials were initially confident of a trade agreement with the US, but now negotiations appear complicated by the US's announcement that it will impose a 25% tariff on Indian goods starting Aug. 1. India's high tariffs and non-monetary trade barriers remain sticking points, especially concerning agriculture. India imposes an average most-favored-nation tariff of 39% on imported farm goods, compared to 5% in the US. Reuters breaks down some of the key issues in focus: Read more here. Trump says India will be paying a tariff of 25% President Trump accused India on Wednesday of charging high tariffs and said they are among the highest in the world. Trump said that despite the US and India being "friends" they have done "little business" together. "Remember, while India is our friend, we have, over the years, done relatively little business with them because their Tariffs are far too high, among the highest in the World, and they have the most strenuous and obnoxious non-monetary Trade Barriers of any Country," Trump wrote on Truth Social. The US president went on to write that India had purchased the "vast majority" of its military equipment from Russia, alongside China and because of this things are "not good." ALL THINGS NOT GOOD! INDIA WILL THEREFORE BE PAYING A TARIFF OF 25%, PLUS A PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE, STARTING ON AUGUST FIRST. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER. MAGA! These latest comments from Trump come after he said on Tuesday that India would face a 20%-25% tariff rate as both sides had failed to reach an agreement ahead of Trump's Aug. 1 deadline, when trading partners would face higher tariffs. Sources said on Wednesday that India hopes to establish a trade deal with the US by fall of 2025. Trump says Aug. 1 deadline will not be extended Two posts from Truth Social this morning: And: Harley-Davidson misses second-quarter profit estimates as tariffs weigh Motorcycle maker Harley Davidson (HOG) reported lower second-quarter profit and did not provide an annual forecast on Wednesday, as US President Trump's tariffs continued to weigh on the motorcycle maker. Reuters reports: Read more here. India eyes fall deadline for US deal amid Trump threats India has said that it will continue its negotiations with the US for a trade deal and hope one can be established by fall of 2025, despite President Trump's Aug. 1 deadline, where trading partners will face higher tariffs. Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. Luxury car brands Aston Martin and Porsche report tariff hit President Trump's tariffs have caused two automakers to either issue warnings on Wednesday or trim outlooks. British luxury carmaker Aston Martin (AML.L, ARGGY) issued a profit warning on Wednesday, citing the impact of US import tariffs and prolonged suppressed Asian demand linked to China's economic slowdown. While Volkswagen's ( VWAGY) luxury brand Porsche cut its full-year profitability target on Wednesday after the EU's trade deal with the US and reported a $462-million hit from tariffs in the first half. Reuters reports: Read more here. Trump: India may get 20% to 25% tariff but not yet final President Trump said India could face tariffs of 20% to 25%, but added the final rate isn't set yet as both countries work on a trade deal before the August 1 deadline. 'I think so,' Trump told reporters Tuesday when asked if that was a possible tariff rate for New Delhi. 'India has been a good friend, but India has charged basically more tariffs than almost any other country,' Trump said aboard Air Force One as he returned to Washington from a five-day visit to Scotland. 'You just can't do that.' The US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said "more negotiations" are needed between the US and India in order to secure a trade deal, Greer's statement was made just days before the Aug. 1 deadline for higher tariffs. Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. Brazil asks US to spare key food products, planes from tariffs Brazil has asked the US to spare key sectors from sky-high tariffs that will take effect on Friday. Specifically, it has asked for exemptions for food products and aircraft from Embraer, the world's third-largest planemaker. More from Reuters: Brazil is facing 50% tariffs on its exports to the US from Friday. That is among the highest rates Trump has threatened in his new round of sweeping tariffs. Those levies are coming in part because of what Trump alleges is the country's unfair treatment of its former president, who is currently on trial in the country. Read more here. US-China talks end without further pause, with Trump to make 'final call' US and Chinese negotiators wrapped up two days of talks Tuesday without an immediate announcement of a further tariff delay between the world's two largest economies as markets watch closely for an offramp to avert additional duties that could be in the offing in about two weeks' time. "We're going to head back to Washington, D.C., and we're going to talk to the president about whether that's something that he wants to do," said Trade Representative Jamieson Greer after the talks concluded in Stockholm, Sweden. "The president can make a final call," he added. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent added Tuesday that it was "a very fulsome two days" of talks and that another 90-day pause remains on the table with the overall tone of talks being "very constructive." Trump himself was asked later in the afternoon about the chances of approval, telling reporters on Air Force One he had just spoken to Bessent and that he would decide after a briefing but that Bessent felt good about Tuesday's meeting. Read more here. US goods trade deficit hits nearly 2-year low as imports tumble The US trade deficit in goods narrowed in June to its lowest in nearly two years as imports dropped sharply. Reuters reports: Read more here. IMF edges 2025 growth forecast slightly higher, warns tariff risks still dog outlook Reuters reports: Read more here. India braces for higher US tariffs, eyes broader trade deal: Sources India is bracing itself for higher US tariffs, which will likely be between 20-25% on some exports, according to people familiar with the matter. This will be a temporary measure as it holds off on a fresh trade concession ahead of President Trump's August 1 deadline. Reuters reports: Read more here. Why markets are shrugging off lack of details in Trump trade deals The simplest reason, as explained by Siebert Financial CIO Mark Malek, is that overall progress in various trade talks suggests that worst case scenarios are being avoided "so I think for the most part we're happy." More from Yahoo Finance's Ben Werschkul: Read more here. Powell on tariff-related price increases: Companies will 'cross the street in a group' Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said on Wednesday that the central bank is seeing the "early beginnings" of tariff inflation on goods. "They'll cross the street in a group," Powell said of companies raising prices together, citing as an example the price hikes on both washing machines and dryers that occurred during the first Trump administration, even though only washing machine imports faced higher tariffs. Powell's comments echoed some of what we've heard from companies so far this earnings season. While companies haven't hiked prices across the board, some with businesses most exposed to President Trump's tariffs have noted that they will raise prices to protect margins and offset higher costs. Procter & Gamble (PG), for instance, said on Tuesday it would raise prices by about 2.5% across its portfolio. Mondelez (MDLZ) also said it plans to raise prices, though with a "surgical" approach amid some signs of consumer stress. And L'Oréal affirmed plans to raise prices to offset higher costs from tariffs. Graco Inc. (GGG), a Minneapolis-based industrial equipment manufacturer, said it waited to see what its competitors did on price before taking a price increase. "That gave us the opportunity and the confidence to know that we could also do the same thing," CEO Mark Sheahan said. Read more live coverage of corporate earnings. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said on Wednesday that the central bank is seeing the "early beginnings" of tariff inflation on goods. "They'll cross the street in a group," Powell said of companies raising prices together, citing as an example the price hikes on both washing machines and dryers that occurred during the first Trump administration, even though only washing machine imports faced higher tariffs. Powell's comments echoed some of what we've heard from companies so far this earnings season. While companies haven't hiked prices across the board, some with businesses most exposed to President Trump's tariffs have noted that they will raise prices to protect margins and offset higher costs. Procter & Gamble (PG), for instance, said on Tuesday it would raise prices by about 2.5% across its portfolio. Mondelez (MDLZ) also said it plans to raise prices, though with a "surgical" approach amid some signs of consumer stress. And L'Oréal affirmed plans to raise prices to offset higher costs from tariffs. Graco Inc. (GGG), a Minneapolis-based industrial equipment manufacturer, said it waited to see what its competitors did on price before taking a price increase. "That gave us the opportunity and the confidence to know that we could also do the same thing," CEO Mark Sheahan said. Read more live coverage of corporate earnings. Trump ends tariff break for low-value goods in blow to online retailers President Trump is ending a policy that spared lower-value goods from being impacted by tariffs. The policy will come to an end in late August and will impact goods valued at less than $800. Bloomberg reports: Read more here from Bloomberg. President Trump is ending a policy that spared lower-value goods from being impacted by tariffs. The policy will come to an end in late August and will impact goods valued at less than $800. Bloomberg reports: Read more here from Bloomberg. Trump signs order to justify 50% tariffs on Brazil President Trump has imposed 50% tariffs on Brazil by citing a 1977 law that revolves around the prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro. AP reports: Read more here. President Trump has imposed 50% tariffs on Brazil by citing a 1977 law that revolves around the prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro. AP reports: Read more here. Fed's Powell speaks on tariff effects on inflation: 'It doesn't feel like we're very close to the end' Fed Chair Jerome Powell said on Wednesday that increased tariffs are beginning to push up inflation in some categories, but longer-term inflation expectations remain anchored around the central bank's 2% goal. "Higher tariffs have begun to show through more clearly to prices of some goods, but their overall effects on economic activity and inflation remain to be seen," Powell said in a press conference after the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady. Powell reiterated that central bank policymakers remain in wait-and-see mode. Though two policymakers dissented during the FOMC's meeting for the first time since 1993, as the effects of President Trump's tariff policies have divided central banker. 'It's been a very dynamic time for these trade negotiations, and lots and lots of events in the intermeeting period," Powell continued. "But we're still, you know, a ways away from seeing where things settle down." "It doesn't feel like we're very close to the end of that [trade negotiation] process, and that's not for us to judge, but it feels like there's much more to come." Fed Chair Jerome Powell said on Wednesday that increased tariffs are beginning to push up inflation in some categories, but longer-term inflation expectations remain anchored around the central bank's 2% goal. "Higher tariffs have begun to show through more clearly to prices of some goods, but their overall effects on economic activity and inflation remain to be seen," Powell said in a press conference after the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady. Powell reiterated that central bank policymakers remain in wait-and-see mode. Though two policymakers dissented during the FOMC's meeting for the first time since 1993, as the effects of President Trump's tariff policies have divided central banker. 'It's been a very dynamic time for these trade negotiations, and lots and lots of events in the intermeeting period," Powell continued. "But we're still, you know, a ways away from seeing where things settle down." "It doesn't feel like we're very close to the end of that [trade negotiation] process, and that's not for us to judge, but it feels like there's much more to come." Trump administration announces 50% tariffs on some copper imports President Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday to impose 50% tariffs on certain copper imports starting Aug. 1. According to a White House fact sheet, "The Proclamation imposes universal 50% tariffs on imports of semi-finished copper products (such as copper pipes, wires, rods, sheets, and tubes) and copper-intensive derivative products (such as pipe fittings, cables, connectors, and electrical components), effective August 1." The measure came after a US investigation under Section 323, which US President Donald Trump ordered in February. The tariffs do not apply to the copper content of a product and they do not stack with auto 232 tariffs. Copper input materials (such as copper ores, concentrates, mattes, cathodes, and anodes) and copper scrap are also exempt from the measure. Read more here from Reuters. President Trump signed a proclamation on Wednesday to impose 50% tariffs on certain copper imports starting Aug. 1. According to a White House fact sheet, "The Proclamation imposes universal 50% tariffs on imports of semi-finished copper products (such as copper pipes, wires, rods, sheets, and tubes) and copper-intensive derivative products (such as pipe fittings, cables, connectors, and electrical components), effective August 1." The measure came after a US investigation under Section 323, which US President Donald Trump ordered in February. The tariffs do not apply to the copper content of a product and they do not stack with auto 232 tariffs. Copper input materials (such as copper ores, concentrates, mattes, cathodes, and anodes) and copper scrap are also exempt from the measure. Read more here from Reuters. Trump's trade deals come with few details to flesh out big numbers President Trump has announced a flurry of trade agreements, but many so far are proving light on detail, with key aspects still under negotiation, partners giving mixed signals about what they signed up for, and big numbers shrinking under scrutiny. Bloomberg reports: Read more here. President Trump has announced a flurry of trade agreements, but many so far are proving light on detail, with key aspects still under negotiation, partners giving mixed signals about what they signed up for, and big numbers shrinking under scrutiny. Bloomberg reports: Read more here. Hershey grows optimistic about cocoa tariff exemption as the company cuts guidance Hershey (HSY) is hoping for a Trump administration reprieve on tariffs as rising cocoa prices weigh on its full-year outlook. "I would say that we are even more optimistic now," Hershey CEO Michele Buck said on the company's earnings call. "As we've had conversations over the past several months, we have become increasingly comfortable that the government administration understands some of our concerns about the fact that cocoa can only be grown and sourced outside of the US." Buck cited comments from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in recent days that left the door open for an exemption for cocoa products. "If you grow something and we don't grow it, that can come in for zero [tariffs]," Lutnick said on CNBC's Squawk Box on Tuesday. "So if we do a deal with a country that grows mangos, pineapple, then they can come in without a tariff. ... Coffee and cocoa will be other examples of natural resources," Lutnick added. Hershey plans to raise prices, though Buck stated that the price increases "had nothing to do with tariffs." For the year, Hershey expects to see a $170 million to $180 million cost headwind from tariffs. "We'll continue to press on tariffs relative to the cocoa exemption," Buck said, adding: "That's sort of out of our control, but [we] continue to lean there." Hershey (HSY) is hoping for a Trump administration reprieve on tariffs as rising cocoa prices weigh on its full-year outlook. "I would say that we are even more optimistic now," Hershey CEO Michele Buck said on the company's earnings call. "As we've had conversations over the past several months, we have become increasingly comfortable that the government administration understands some of our concerns about the fact that cocoa can only be grown and sourced outside of the US." Buck cited comments from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in recent days that left the door open for an exemption for cocoa products. "If you grow something and we don't grow it, that can come in for zero [tariffs]," Lutnick said on CNBC's Squawk Box on Tuesday. "So if we do a deal with a country that grows mangos, pineapple, then they can come in without a tariff. ... Coffee and cocoa will be other examples of natural resources," Lutnick added. Hershey plans to raise prices, though Buck stated that the price increases "had nothing to do with tariffs." For the year, Hershey expects to see a $170 million to $180 million cost headwind from tariffs. "We'll continue to press on tariffs relative to the cocoa exemption," Buck said, adding: "That's sort of out of our control, but [we] continue to lean there." India-US trade talks go off rails on row over farm markets Indian officials were initially confident of a trade agreement with the US, but now negotiations appear complicated by the US's announcement that it will impose a 25% tariff on Indian goods starting Aug. 1. India's high tariffs and non-monetary trade barriers remain sticking points, especially concerning agriculture. India imposes an average most-favored-nation tariff of 39% on imported farm goods, compared to 5% in the US. Reuters breaks down some of the key issues in focus: Read more here. Indian officials were initially confident of a trade agreement with the US, but now negotiations appear complicated by the US's announcement that it will impose a 25% tariff on Indian goods starting Aug. 1. India's high tariffs and non-monetary trade barriers remain sticking points, especially concerning agriculture. India imposes an average most-favored-nation tariff of 39% on imported farm goods, compared to 5% in the US. Reuters breaks down some of the key issues in focus: Read more here. Trump says India will be paying a tariff of 25% President Trump accused India on Wednesday of charging high tariffs and said they are among the highest in the world. Trump said that despite the US and India being "friends" they have done "little business" together. "Remember, while India is our friend, we have, over the years, done relatively little business with them because their Tariffs are far too high, among the highest in the World, and they have the most strenuous and obnoxious non-monetary Trade Barriers of any Country," Trump wrote on Truth Social. The US president went on to write that India had purchased the "vast majority" of its military equipment from Russia, alongside China and because of this things are "not good." ALL THINGS NOT GOOD! INDIA WILL THEREFORE BE PAYING A TARIFF OF 25%, PLUS A PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE, STARTING ON AUGUST FIRST. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER. MAGA! These latest comments from Trump come after he said on Tuesday that India would face a 20%-25% tariff rate as both sides had failed to reach an agreement ahead of Trump's Aug. 1 deadline, when trading partners would face higher tariffs. Sources said on Wednesday that India hopes to establish a trade deal with the US by fall of 2025. President Trump accused India on Wednesday of charging high tariffs and said they are among the highest in the world. Trump said that despite the US and India being "friends" they have done "little business" together. "Remember, while India is our friend, we have, over the years, done relatively little business with them because their Tariffs are far too high, among the highest in the World, and they have the most strenuous and obnoxious non-monetary Trade Barriers of any Country," Trump wrote on Truth Social. The US president went on to write that India had purchased the "vast majority" of its military equipment from Russia, alongside China and because of this things are "not good." ALL THINGS NOT GOOD! INDIA WILL THEREFORE BE PAYING A TARIFF OF 25%, PLUS A PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE, STARTING ON AUGUST FIRST. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER. MAGA! These latest comments from Trump come after he said on Tuesday that India would face a 20%-25% tariff rate as both sides had failed to reach an agreement ahead of Trump's Aug. 1 deadline, when trading partners would face higher tariffs. Sources said on Wednesday that India hopes to establish a trade deal with the US by fall of 2025. Trump says Aug. 1 deadline will not be extended Two posts from Truth Social this morning: And: Two posts from Truth Social this morning: And: Harley-Davidson misses second-quarter profit estimates as tariffs weigh Motorcycle maker Harley Davidson (HOG) reported lower second-quarter profit and did not provide an annual forecast on Wednesday, as US President Trump's tariffs continued to weigh on the motorcycle maker. Reuters reports: Read more here. Motorcycle maker Harley Davidson (HOG) reported lower second-quarter profit and did not provide an annual forecast on Wednesday, as US President Trump's tariffs continued to weigh on the motorcycle maker. Reuters reports: Read more here. India eyes fall deadline for US deal amid Trump threats India has said that it will continue its negotiations with the US for a trade deal and hope one can be established by fall of 2025, despite President Trump's Aug. 1 deadline, where trading partners will face higher tariffs. Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. India has said that it will continue its negotiations with the US for a trade deal and hope one can be established by fall of 2025, despite President Trump's Aug. 1 deadline, where trading partners will face higher tariffs. Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. Luxury car brands Aston Martin and Porsche report tariff hit President Trump's tariffs have caused two automakers to either issue warnings on Wednesday or trim outlooks. British luxury carmaker Aston Martin (AML.L, ARGGY) issued a profit warning on Wednesday, citing the impact of US import tariffs and prolonged suppressed Asian demand linked to China's economic slowdown. While Volkswagen's ( VWAGY) luxury brand Porsche cut its full-year profitability target on Wednesday after the EU's trade deal with the US and reported a $462-million hit from tariffs in the first half. Reuters reports: Read more here. President Trump's tariffs have caused two automakers to either issue warnings on Wednesday or trim outlooks. British luxury carmaker Aston Martin (AML.L, ARGGY) issued a profit warning on Wednesday, citing the impact of US import tariffs and prolonged suppressed Asian demand linked to China's economic slowdown. While Volkswagen's ( VWAGY) luxury brand Porsche cut its full-year profitability target on Wednesday after the EU's trade deal with the US and reported a $462-million hit from tariffs in the first half. Reuters reports: Read more here. Trump: India may get 20% to 25% tariff but not yet final President Trump said India could face tariffs of 20% to 25%, but added the final rate isn't set yet as both countries work on a trade deal before the August 1 deadline. 'I think so,' Trump told reporters Tuesday when asked if that was a possible tariff rate for New Delhi. 'India has been a good friend, but India has charged basically more tariffs than almost any other country,' Trump said aboard Air Force One as he returned to Washington from a five-day visit to Scotland. 'You just can't do that.' The US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said "more negotiations" are needed between the US and India in order to secure a trade deal, Greer's statement was made just days before the Aug. 1 deadline for higher tariffs. Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. President Trump said India could face tariffs of 20% to 25%, but added the final rate isn't set yet as both countries work on a trade deal before the August 1 deadline. 'I think so,' Trump told reporters Tuesday when asked if that was a possible tariff rate for New Delhi. 'India has been a good friend, but India has charged basically more tariffs than almost any other country,' Trump said aboard Air Force One as he returned to Washington from a five-day visit to Scotland. 'You just can't do that.' The US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said "more negotiations" are needed between the US and India in order to secure a trade deal, Greer's statement was made just days before the Aug. 1 deadline for higher tariffs. Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. Brazil asks US to spare key food products, planes from tariffs Brazil has asked the US to spare key sectors from sky-high tariffs that will take effect on Friday. Specifically, it has asked for exemptions for food products and aircraft from Embraer, the world's third-largest planemaker. More from Reuters: Brazil is facing 50% tariffs on its exports to the US from Friday. That is among the highest rates Trump has threatened in his new round of sweeping tariffs. Those levies are coming in part because of what Trump alleges is the country's unfair treatment of its former president, who is currently on trial in the country. Read more here. Brazil has asked the US to spare key sectors from sky-high tariffs that will take effect on Friday. Specifically, it has asked for exemptions for food products and aircraft from Embraer, the world's third-largest planemaker. More from Reuters: Brazil is facing 50% tariffs on its exports to the US from Friday. That is among the highest rates Trump has threatened in his new round of sweeping tariffs. Those levies are coming in part because of what Trump alleges is the country's unfair treatment of its former president, who is currently on trial in the country. Read more here. US-China talks end without further pause, with Trump to make 'final call' US and Chinese negotiators wrapped up two days of talks Tuesday without an immediate announcement of a further tariff delay between the world's two largest economies as markets watch closely for an offramp to avert additional duties that could be in the offing in about two weeks' time. "We're going to head back to Washington, D.C., and we're going to talk to the president about whether that's something that he wants to do," said Trade Representative Jamieson Greer after the talks concluded in Stockholm, Sweden. "The president can make a final call," he added. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent added Tuesday that it was "a very fulsome two days" of talks and that another 90-day pause remains on the table with the overall tone of talks being "very constructive." Trump himself was asked later in the afternoon about the chances of approval, telling reporters on Air Force One he had just spoken to Bessent and that he would decide after a briefing but that Bessent felt good about Tuesday's meeting. Read more here. US and Chinese negotiators wrapped up two days of talks Tuesday without an immediate announcement of a further tariff delay between the world's two largest economies as markets watch closely for an offramp to avert additional duties that could be in the offing in about two weeks' time. "We're going to head back to Washington, D.C., and we're going to talk to the president about whether that's something that he wants to do," said Trade Representative Jamieson Greer after the talks concluded in Stockholm, Sweden. "The president can make a final call," he added. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent added Tuesday that it was "a very fulsome two days" of talks and that another 90-day pause remains on the table with the overall tone of talks being "very constructive." Trump himself was asked later in the afternoon about the chances of approval, telling reporters on Air Force One he had just spoken to Bessent and that he would decide after a briefing but that Bessent felt good about Tuesday's meeting. Read more here. US goods trade deficit hits nearly 2-year low as imports tumble The US trade deficit in goods narrowed in June to its lowest in nearly two years as imports dropped sharply. Reuters reports: Read more here. The US trade deficit in goods narrowed in June to its lowest in nearly two years as imports dropped sharply. Reuters reports: Read more here. IMF edges 2025 growth forecast slightly higher, warns tariff risks still dog outlook Reuters reports: Read more here. Reuters reports: Read more here. India braces for higher US tariffs, eyes broader trade deal: Sources India is bracing itself for higher US tariffs, which will likely be between 20-25% on some exports, according to people familiar with the matter. This will be a temporary measure as it holds off on a fresh trade concession ahead of President Trump's August 1 deadline. Reuters reports: Read more here. India is bracing itself for higher US tariffs, which will likely be between 20-25% on some exports, according to people familiar with the matter. This will be a temporary measure as it holds off on a fresh trade concession ahead of President Trump's August 1 deadline. Reuters reports: Read more here. Why markets are shrugging off lack of details in Trump trade deals The simplest reason, as explained by Siebert Financial CIO Mark Malek, is that overall progress in various trade talks suggests that worst case scenarios are being avoided "so I think for the most part we're happy." More from Yahoo Finance's Ben Werschkul: Read more here. The simplest reason, as explained by Siebert Financial CIO Mark Malek, is that overall progress in various trade talks suggests that worst case scenarios are being avoided "so I think for the most part we're happy." More from Yahoo Finance's Ben Werschkul: Read more here. Sign in to access your portfolio
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Imagine running for mayor for the first time ‒ and you're unopposed
Acting Weymouth Mayor Michael Molisse will run unopposed for his first full term as mayor. Virtually the only way Molisse wouldn't become mayor is a wildly successful write-in campaign on election day. Nomination papers for the Nov. 4 town election were due back to the town clerk by Tuesday, July 29. The town will not need to hold a primary election. Molisse, the town council president, took over as acting mayor with Robert Hedlund's July 15 resignation. Hedlund announced his resignation June 17, citing family and health concerns. Those wishing to run for mayor then had six weeks ‒ until July 29 ‒ to return nomination papers. There are five open seats for councilors at large. Incumbents Christopher Heffernan, Fred Happel and Richard Coughlin will seek reelection, and Stephen Shinney, Andrew Donovan, Alyson Dossett and James Melody have also thrown their hats in the ring. Molisse and Greg Shanahan will not seek reelection. District 1 incumbent Pascale Burga will face challenger Kathleen Kelly. In District two, former mayoral candidate Edward Cowen will face Rebecca Sherlock-Shangraw, a current school committee member who is not seeking reelection. Incumbent Maureen Kiely is not running for the seat. The exit interview: Weymouth Mayor Bob Hedlund on his 9 1/2 years leading the town The school committee has three open seats, with none of the incumbents with expiring terms – Sherlock-Shangraw, Kathy Curran, and Dana Scott – running for reelection. The six candidates who have submitted nomination papers are Ashley Dickerman, Joseph Bronske, Cynthia Lyons, Allegra Marrone, Kelly McClean and Peter Krawciw. This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Weymouth election: Who is on the November ballot? Solve the daily Crossword
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Bessent says child savings accounts in Trump law are 'a back door for privatizing Social Security'
WASHINGTON (AP) — The children's savings program included in President Donald Trump's tax break-and-spending cut law 'is a back door for privatizing Social Security,' Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Wednesday. Bessent's remark, which he made at a forum hosted by Breitbart News, was striking after Trump's repeated promises that he would not cut Social Security. Democrats quickly seized on the comment as a sign the GOP wants to revive a dormant but unpopular push to privatize the long-running retirement program. 'Donald Trump's Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent just said the quiet part out loud: The administration is scheming to privatize Social Security,' Tim Hogan, a spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee, said in a statement. The White House did not immediately respond to a message about Bessent's remarks. The GOP's 'big, beautiful bill,' as the law is called, created a new children's savings program, Trump Accounts, which can be created for babies born in the U.S. and come with a potential $1,000 deposit from the Treasury. The accounts can grow over time, much the way college savings plans or other accounts do, and the accumulated funds can eventually be tapped in adulthood. But Bessent on Wednesday allowed for another option for the accounts. 'In a way, it is a back door for privatizing Social Security,' Bessent said while speaking about the program. Bessent's comments were striking for his casual revival of a polarizing issue. Ever since the George W. Bush administration considered proposals to privatize Social Security more than 20 years ago, Republicans have publicly moved away from talking about the issue that proved politically unpopular and was swiftly abandoned. Democrats at the time used GOP plans to privatize Social Security in the run-up to the 2006 midterm elections and won back control of both House and Senate in Congress. The Democrats warned Wednesday that Republicans are again trying to dismantle the long-running retirement program. 'It wasn't enough to kick millions of people off their health care and take food away from hungry kids. Trump is now coming after American seniors with a 'backdoor' scam to take away the benefits they earned,' Hogan at the DNC said in the statement. ___ Michelle L. Price And Lisa Mascaro, The Associated Press Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
