Good morning. From Capitol Hill to state legislatures and local campaigns, today’s stories highlight how political pressure builds and how quickly it can reshape decisions, races, and power.
Bondi to Testify as Epstein Probe Intensifies
After weeks of resistance and rising tensions, former Attorney General Pam Bondi is now set to testify before Congress in the ongoing investigation into the handling of Jeffrey Epstein-related records.
Bondi had initially declined to comply with a House Oversight Committee subpoena, prompting Democrats to move toward holding her in contempt of Congress. But following mounting pressure—and a dispute over whether she was required to appear after leaving office—she has agreed to sit for a closed-door deposition under oath later this month.
Lawmakers are expected to press her on lingering questions surrounding the Justice Department’s release of Epstein files, including controversial redactions and concerns about transparency. The case remains one of the most politically sensitive and closely watched investigations on Capitol Hill, with both parties signaling frustration over what information has and hasn’t been made public.
Florida Redistricting Plan Moves Forward
In Florida, a major redistricting effort is gaining momentum after the state House passed a new congressional map that could expand Republican representation.
The proposal, backed by Governor Ron DeSantis, now heads to the state Senate. If approved, it would take effect ahead of the 2026 midterm elections and could reshape several competitive districts.
Supporters argue the plan reflects population shifts and corrects outdated district lines, while critics view it as part of a broader national struggle over control of the House. Florida already sends a strong Republican majority to Congress, and the new map could widen that margin.
Indiana Race Shaken by Candidate’s Arrest
A state Senate race in Indiana has taken an unexpected turn after Democratic candidate Andrew Dezelan was arrested following an incident in a suburban neighborhood.
According to police reports, officers responded to complaints about door-to-door activity and encountered Dezelan, who allegedly showed signs consistent with drug use. Authorities say a search of his vehicle uncovered a substance that tested positive for cocaine, and he now faces charges including possession and resisting law enforcement.
The arrest adds sudden uncertainty to what was already a competitive race. Dezelan, a longtime political operative, had been campaigning on economic and healthcare issues. Now, the focus is likely to shift toward legal proceedings and the broader impact on the contest.
READ NEXT: Florida House Passes New DeSantis Congressional Map
