Morning Briefing — June 11, 2026

Trump Inflation Comments. Donald Trump's "inflation quip" is seen as a "doozy" for GOP midterm messaging, with his "inflation flippancy" potentially providing Democrats with "ready-made midterm ads." This comes as Trump stated, "I love the inflation," while the annual rate has jumped to a 3-year high. Midterm pressures are threatening GOP unity in light of these comments and the rising inflation figures.

Spy Powers Extension. A "Pulte clash" threatens even a short-term extension of America's spy powers. The program is at risk due to Trump's pick of Bill Pulte for director of national intelligence. Congress is seeking to address the future of these spy powers.

DOJ Fund Warning. A judge has warned the DOJ not to "play possum" with an "anti-weaponization fund" that the department claims is no longer active. The judge declined to halt the fund but issued a warning to the DOJ. This judicial scrutiny highlights ongoing tensions regarding the fund's status.

Pentagon Official Scrutiny. A top Pentagon Official worked closely with a C.I.A. Officer who was later found with gold bars. This association has drawn attention to the actions of the unnamed Pentagon official. The nature of their collaboration and the subsequent discovery are under review.