U.S. World Cup star’s suspension lifted after Trump’s call to FIFA president

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-06 17:45:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump’s World Cup Intervention Sparks Global Outrage and Highlights Birthright Citizenship Irony

President Trump has acknowledged intervening in the controversial reversal of a red card suspension for U.S. soccer star Flo Balogun ahead of the World Cup match against Belgium, a move that has triggered international backlash and renewed scrutiny of Trump’s stance on birthright citizenship.

Trump’s Direct Involvement

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump described his role in the decision, stating he watched the play in question and believed it was not a foul, but rather “two great athletes that got tangled up.” He called Balogun “a very vital player” and said he thought the red card was “very unfair.” Trump confirmed he called FIFA President Gianni Infantino, relaying his feelings about the incident: “I think it would have had a big stain. And I relayed just that feeling. I didn’t tell him what to do. I can’t tell him what to do, but — and I don’t believe he made the decision. I think it was a committee that made the decision. And they made the right decision.”

Within 90 minutes of Trump’s comments, FIFA issued a statement emphasizing the independence of its judicial process, with Infantino asserting that the case was handled by “competent bodies” and defending the organization’s autonomy.

International Fallout and Unprecedented Action

Soccer experts and officials have noted the extraordinary nature of the intervention. As ESPN and The Guardian’s Leander Schaerlaeckens explained, red card suspensions are typically automatic and rarely reversed mid-tournament. The last comparable incident occurred in 1962, and recent precedent involving Cristiano Ronaldo also drew controversy. The decision to allow Balogun to play has left the Belgian team and much of the soccer world outraged, with appeals from Belgium swiftly rejected by FIFA.

Birthright Citizenship Contradiction

Adding to the controversy is the irony that Trump’s intervention benefited a player whose eligibility for Team USA is based on birthright citizenship—a policy Trump has repeatedly sought to overturn. Balogun, born in the U.S. to a Nigerian mother who was visiting while pregnant, can play for the U.S. only because of this constitutional right. Trump has not addressed this contradiction, despite having issued an executive order to challenge birthright citizenship on his first day back in office, a move the Supreme Court recently ruled against. Trump expressed disappointment in that decision and has indicated he still wants to challenge the policy.

Conclusion

Trump’s direct involvement in the World Cup controversy has not only upended established sporting norms but also exposed the contradictions in his immigration policy. As global criticism mounts and questions about fairness linger, Trump’s actions continue to reverberate far beyond the pitch, casting a shadow over both the tournament and his own political positions.

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Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/u-s-world-cup-stars-suspension-lifted-after-trumps-call-to-fifa-president

The California Democrat who says he ‘won’t cheer FIFA’s capitulation to power’

Politics — 2026-07-06 20:05:00 — www.politico.com

Trump Pressed FIFA to Review Red Card, Then Downplayed Influence After U.S. Star Reinstated

President Donald Trump confirmed that he asked FIFA to review the controversial red card issued to U.S. national team striker Folarin Balogun, a move that drew criticism from both domestic and international officials. The world soccer organization ultimately suspended the penalty, allowing Balogun—America’s leading scorer—to play in the high-stakes knockout round match against Belgium.

FIFA has repeatedly asserted that Trump’s intervention had no impact on its decision, and Trump himself said the same today, while acknowledging that he had requested another look at the play.

Unprecedented Intervention

The situation is notable because, according to Sam Liccardo, a Democratic representative from Silicon Valley, FIFA had not allowed a player to appear in a World Cup match immediately after receiving a red card since 1962. Liccardo and others expressed concern that the involvement of a head of state in what should be an apolitical international sporting event sets a troubling precedent.

Liccardo described the episode as a “corruption summit between FIFA and Donald Trump,” highlighting widespread discomfort with the perception of political pressure influencing the outcome. While Liccardo agreed that Balogun’s initial red card was unfair, he argued that the reversal—following Trump’s intervention—undermined the integrity of the sport.

Fact-Check: Trump’s Role and FIFA’s Response

FIFA and Trump both denied that the president’s request directly affected the outcome. However, the fact that Trump confirmed his involvement, paired with FIFA’s subsequent reversal of a long-standing policy, has fueled skepticism among observers and officials.

Conclusion

Trump’s direct appeal to FIFA and subsequent denial of influence underscores ongoing concerns about political interference in international sports. While the U.S. team benefited from the decision, critics warn that such interventions risk eroding trust in the fairness and independence of global competitions. The episode serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping politics out of sports, a principle that many believe was compromised in this case.

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Source: https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/07/06/world-cup-2026/sam-liccardo-world-cup-caucus-corruption-fifa-trump-balogun-red-card-00988441

Donald J. Trump: “Great news! I have just been informed that one of the biggest, best, and sma…

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-06 15:45:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump Claims Credit for Walmart Price Drops, Attacks Biden Over Inflation and Policy Failures

Donald Trump has claimed that Walmart, one of America’s largest retailers, will be “lowering prices, by a lot, at my Administration’s request to celebrate our great Country’s 250th birthday.” Trump specifically asserted, “Walmart will, in particular, be dropping the price for a pound of ground beef by almost 15%, among many other products.” He described this as “a huge deal for the many millions of Americans who, smartly, shop at Walmart,” and praised the company as “a truly patriotic Company who loves the U.S.A.”

False Claims About Price Control and Inflation

Trump’s statement attributes Walmart’s price reductions directly to his administration’s request, suggesting a level of control over private sector pricing that is not supported by evidence. Retailers like Walmart set prices based on market conditions, supply chains, and competition—not at the direction of any presidential administration. There is no public record or credible reporting that Walmart’s pricing decisions were made at Trump’s request or as a result of any direct intervention.

He further claimed, “My Administration is lowering prices that Joe Biden incompetently raised with the worst inflation crisis in history, a total disaster along with the Southern Border, the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, and many other failures.” This statement exaggerates both the scale of inflation under Biden and Trump’s own role in price changes. Inflation has been a global phenomenon influenced by pandemic recovery and international events, not solely by the actions of any one administration. Trump’s assertion that his administration is actively lowering prices is not supported by current economic data or policy actions.

Exaggerations on Oil, Gas, and Prescription Drug Prices

Trump continued, “Just as I promised, Oil Prices are plummeting FAST, and Gas Prices at the pump are dropping too, just like egg and Prescription Drug prices which I am bringing down by historic levels.” These claims are misleading. While oil and gas prices fluctuate due to global markets, there is no evidence that Trump’s administration is currently responsible for any rapid decline. Similarly, prescription drug prices are influenced by complex negotiations and regulations, not unilateral presidential action.

Attacks on Biden and Calls for Retailer Patriotism

In his statement, Trump disparaged President Biden, blaming him for “the worst inflation crisis in history,” and described his administration’s record as “a total disaster along with the Southern Border, the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, and many other failures.” He also called on other retailers to “follow the lead of these absolute Patriots,” referring to Walmart.

Conclusion: Fact-Checking Trump’s Claims

Trump’s latest remarks contain multiple exaggerations and falsehoods about his influence over Walmart’s pricing, the causes of inflation, and his administration’s impact on consumer costs. While he continues to frame himself as the driving force behind positive economic developments, the facts do not support his claims of direct intervention or responsibility for recent price changes. Readers should approach such statements with skepticism and seek out independent verification of economic trends and policy impacts.

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Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/39863

NATO chief demands allies present credible plans to reach defense spending targets

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-06 17:22:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump Demands ‘Loyalty’ and Higher Spending from NATO Allies, Escalating Tensions Within the Alliance

Donald Trump’s stance on NATO has once again taken center stage as the alliance meets in Ankara to discuss defense spending and security commitments. According to U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker, “President (Donald) Trump fully expects that all allies will step up immediately and get on the path to 5% and do it with urgency.” This demand comes as NATO members work to meet a new target of investing 5% of their gross domestic product on defense, a significant increase from previous commitments.

Trump’s Record of Criticizing NATO Allies

Trump has repeatedly criticized U.S. allies over what he perceives as inadequate defense spending. He has in the past threatened not to come to the defense of any member not meeting spending targets, directly challenging NATO’s foundational principle of collective defense. This posture has raised concerns among European allies, especially as some countries are still struggling to meet the alliance’s previous target of 2% of GDP.

The president has also called for “loyalty” from NATO allies, particularly after some declined to allow the use of their military bases in the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran. Trump’s grievances extend beyond spending, as he has also clashed with allies over issues such as the war, his comments about annexing Greenland, and other disputes.

Fact-Checking Trump’s Claims and Demands

While Trump and his administration continue to press for higher spending, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte noted that the evidence of increased investment is “impressive,” with estimates showing a combined $258 billion more in defense spending by European allies and Canada in 2025 and this year compared to previous years. However, the Trump administration remains unsatisfied, pushing for even greater commitments and warning of unspecified consequences for those who do not comply.

Trump’s approach, dubbed “NATO 3.0,” envisions Europe taking on more responsibility for its own defense, ostensibly freeing the U.S. to focus on other priorities. However, this vision has been met with skepticism, as it risks undermining alliance unity at a time of heightened security threats from Russia and elsewhere.

Conclusion: Trump’s Rhetoric Raises Stakes for NATO

Trump’s repeated attacks on NATO allies and his demands for “loyalty” and increased spending have injected uncertainty into the alliance at a critical moment. While European countries are making significant strides in boosting their defense budgets, Trump’s posture continues to challenge the cohesion and shared purpose that have defined NATO for decades. As the summit unfolds, the alliance faces the dual challenge of meeting ambitious new targets while navigating the disruptive impact of Trump’s rhetoric and demands.

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Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/nato-chief-demands-allies-present-credible-plans-to-reach-defense-spending-targets

👀 Potential Spain vs. US clash

Politics — 2026-07-06 15:22:00 — www.politico.com

Trump Targets Spain Over Military Spending, Deepening Rift With Madrid

President Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted Spain since his return to office in January 2025, focusing his criticism on the country’s military spending record. This ongoing pressure has become a central feature of the increasingly fractured relationship between the United States and Spain.

Ongoing Tensions Over Defense and Foreign Policy

Trump’s public attacks on Spain’s defense budget have heightened diplomatic tensions. The president’s stance has been met with strong resistance from Spain’s socialist leader, Pedro Sánchez, who has clashed with Trump not only over military spending but also on major international issues. Their disagreements have been especially sharp regarding the Iran war and Israel’s assault in Gaza, where their policies are described as “worlds apart.”

Diverging Policies and Public Clashes

The divide between Trump and Sánchez extends beyond defense and foreign policy. The two leaders have adopted opposing positions on energy and immigration, further straining bilateral ties. Trump’s repeated criticisms and confrontational approach have contributed to a climate of open disagreement between the two allies.

Conclusion

President Trump’s decision to single out Spain for its military spending has brought underlying policy differences to the forefront, resulting in a public and persistent rift with Madrid. As both countries continue to navigate their disagreements on the global stage, the fractured relationship underscores the challenges facing U.S.-Spain cooperation in a period of heightened international tension.

Source article

Source: https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/07/06/world-cup-2026/spain-usa-fifa-world-cup-2026-00987999

Trump denied latest bid to delay $5.8m judgment payment to E Jean Carroll | E Jean Carroll

US politics | The Guardian — 2026-07-06 09:34:00 — www.theguardian.com

Trump Attacks Judge After Court Rejects His Attempt to Delay $5.8 Million Payment to E. Jean Carroll

Donald Trump lashed out at US district Judge Lewis Kaplan after the judge rejected his latest effort to delay payment of a $5.8 million judgment for defaming magazine columnist E. Jean Carroll, whom a jury determined he sexually abused in 1996 and later defamed in 2019. In a post on his Truth Social platform following the jury’s award in 2023, Trump wrote: “What else can you expect from a Trump Hating, Clinton appointed judge, who went out of his way to make sure that the result was as negative as it could possible be, speaking to, and in control of, a jury from an anti-Trump area which is probably the worst place in the US for me to get a fair ‘trial’.”

Court Denies Delay Request

On July 4, Judge Kaplan issued a single-sentence order denying Trump’s request for more time to pay the civil judgment. Trump’s attorneys argued that his new lead counsel needed additional time to become familiar with the case, citing the recent appointment of his former lead counsel to a federal judgeship. Carroll’s lawyer countered that the request was simply another attempt to stall, noting that Trump had ample time to hire new counsel.

Pattern of Attacks and Delay Tactics

Trump’s angry statement about Judge Kaplan is part of a broader pattern in which he disparages judges and juries involved in his legal cases, often suggesting bias or unfairness without evidence. In this instance, he specifically attacked the judge’s background and the location of the trial, implying that both were stacked against him.

Meanwhile, Trump’s legal team has sought to delay payment by proposing to combine this case with a separate $83.3 million defamation judgment Carroll won in 2024. Carroll’s lawyers have warned that such a move could further postpone justice and potentially jeopardize both judgments.

Conclusion

Trump’s public statements and legal maneuvers reflect a consistent strategy of attacking the legitimacy of the judicial process and seeking to delay accountability. The federal court’s latest rejection of his delay request underscores the judiciary’s insistence that Trump meet his obligations, despite his repeated attempts to evade or undermine the outcome. Readers should be aware of Trump’s record of false claims and disparagements when evaluating his responses to legal setbacks.

Source article

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jul/06/trump-denies-delay-e-jean-carroll-judgment-payment

WATCH: Sen. Cruz thanks Trump for ‘getting rid’ of Folarin Balogun’s World Cup red card

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-06 10:40:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump Claims Credit for Enabling Balogun’s Participation in Belgium Match

President Trump expressed gratitude to FIFA over the weekend, asserting that he and the White House intervened to allow Balogun to play in Monday’s match against Belgium. This statement highlights Trump’s tendency to claim direct involvement in high-profile international sports events.

Trump’s Attributed Statement

According to the excerpt, Trump thanked FIFA after what he described as intervention by himself and the White House, which he said enabled Balogun to participate in the match. This public acknowledgment positions Trump as a central figure in the decision, suggesting that his administration played a decisive role in the outcome.

Fact-Check and Context

The excerpt does not provide further details or independent verification of Trump’s claimed intervention. It is not uncommon for Trump to publicly take credit for actions or outcomes involving international organizations or sporting bodies. In this instance, the specifics of the White House’s involvement, or whether Trump’s actions were directly responsible for Balogun’s eligibility, are not detailed in the provided material.

Conclusion

Trump’s statement thanking FIFA and claiming White House intervention in Balogun’s participation in the Belgium match is consistent with his pattern of publicly attributing high-profile successes to his administration. However, the excerpt does not offer evidence to substantiate the extent or impact of this intervention. As with similar claims, readers should look for additional context and independent confirmation to fully assess the accuracy of Trump’s statements.

Source article

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-sen-cruz-thanks-trump-for-getting-rid-of-folarin-baloguns-world-cup-red-card

A Timeline of Trump’s Pressure Campaign Against the Smithsonian

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-06 10:31:00 — www.nytimes.com

Trump Intensifies Pressure on Smithsonian, Accusing Institution of Anti-White Bias and Historical Distortion

Since returning to the White House in 2025, President Trump has launched a sweeping campaign to reshape the Smithsonian Institution, seeking to limit its independence and recast it as a “symbol of inspiration and American greatness.” In a series of executive actions and public statements, Trump has repeatedly accused the Smithsonian and its museums of promoting what he describes as a divisive, race-centered ideology that portrays “American and Western values as inherently harmful and oppressive.”

Executive Orders and Accusations

On March 27, 2025, Trump issued an executive order titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” asserting that the Smithsonian’s exhibitions focus excessively on race and undermine the nation’s achievements. He claimed the institution had “come under the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology” and called for Vice President JD Vance to work with Congress to block funding for exhibitions or programs that “degrade shared American values, divide Americans by race or promote ideologies inconsistent with federal law.”

Targeting Diversity Initiatives and Personnel

Following Trump’s order declaring the Biden administration’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives “illegal and immoral discrimination,” the Smithsonian shut its Office of Diversity in January 2025. Trump also announced the firing of National Portrait Gallery director Kim Sajet, labeling her “highly partisan” and a “strong supporter of DEI.” Sajet later resigned, citing the best interests of the Smithsonian.

Content Review and Censorship Allegations

Under pressure from Trump’s administration, the National Museum of American History removed a label referencing Trump’s impeachments in 2019 and 2021. The White House then demanded a comprehensive review of exhibitions at eight Smithsonian museums, requiring changes within 120 days to ensure alignment with what it called “American ideals.” In August 2025, Trump escalated his rhetoric, declaring on social media that the Smithsonian was “out of control” and claiming, “Everything discussed is how horrible our Country is, how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been — Nothing about Success, nothing about Brightness, nothing about the Future.”

The administration also published a list of exhibits it deemed objectionable, including educational programming about whiteness at the National Museum of African American History and Culture and artwork depicting migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Ongoing Pressure and Accusations of Bias

The White House continued to admonish the Smithsonian for not fully complying with document requests and suggested that Trump’s official portrait at the National Portrait Gallery be accompanied by additional images of him, emphasizing the president’s desire to showcase artwork sent by “patriotic Americans.”

On July 4, 2026, the administration released a 162-page report accusing the National Museum of American History of failing to properly celebrate the nation’s heritage, embracing “anti-white bias,” and distorting the nation’s founding. The report claimed the museum had shifted from “straightforward historical education and scholarship toward an extreme political activism that seeks to transform our country,” using history “as a political instrument to divide, dispirit and discourage our citizens.”

Conclusion

President Trump’s campaign against the Smithsonian marks a significant effort to reshape the nation’s premier cultural institution according to his administration’s ideological priorities. Through executive orders, public attacks, and demands for content changes, Trump has repeatedly accused the Smithsonian of distorting American history and promoting division—claims that have sparked controversy and raised concerns about political interference in the nation’s museums. The ongoing pressure campaign underscores the administration’s intent to recast the narrative of American history in line with Trump’s vision of “American greatness,” while critics warn of the dangers of politicizing historical scholarship and museum independence.

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Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/06/arts/design/president-trump-smithsonian-timeline.html

There’s more scrutiny for spouses of U.S. citizens under Trump : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-07-06 04:00:00 — www.npr.org

Trump Administration’s Immigration Crackdown Hits Spouses of U.S. Citizens

The Trump administration’s sweeping effort to slow the rate of legal migration has extended to a group that was traditionally protected: spouses of U.S. citizens. Since President Trump returned to the White House last year, his administration has implemented a series of policy changes, including pausing immigrant visas for people from 75 countries, increasing scrutiny at green-card interviews, and broadening the scope of deportation targets. These measures have affected all immigrants, including those seeking to enter or remain in the country through marriage.

Policy Changes and Their Impact

The administration has argued that previous presidents should have scrutinized marriage-based immigration applications more closely. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), under Trump’s direction, claims it is simply complying with the law and prioritizing the safety of Americans by “more thoroughly screening and vetting all aliens.” According to a USCIS spokesperson, marrying a U.S. citizen and starting the petition process does not protect someone from deportation, and a pending or approved Form I-130 does not confer immigration status. The administration’s position is that “all aliens are expected to comply with U.S. immigration laws,” and those who entered without inspection or overstayed are considered “illegal aliens who may be subject to immigration enforcement action.”

Consequences for Families

These policies have led to significant hardship for American families. Some non-citizen spouses have been separated from their loved ones or have chosen to leave the country out of fear of indefinite detention. Advocates and immigration lawyers report that this is a departure from past practice, where spouses of U.S. citizens were generally not swept up in broader enforcement efforts and were considered a privileged class under immigration law.

The administration’s approach has also resulted in chaos for military families. For example, a green-card holder married to a U.S. citizen and born in a country subject to Trump’s travel ban has seen her citizenship application stalled, with no exceptions even for military spouses. Despite a federal judge ruling the pause unlawful, her case remains unresolved, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of these policies.

Increased Scrutiny and Chilling Effect

Trump’s policies have instructed USCIS officers to conduct more interviews and encouraged consideration of whether applicants returned to their home country to apply for a green card. Those who remain in the U.S. may face longer and more intrusive vetting. Additionally, Trump has asked financial institutions to review the bank accounts of those in the U.S. without permanent status, further increasing the pressure on immigrant families.

Advocates say these changes have created a chilling effect, discouraging families from engaging with the immigration system. The heightened scrutiny and uncertainty have left many spouses and fiancés without legal status and fearful of moving forward with their cases.

Conclusion

President Trump’s administration has fundamentally altered the landscape for spouses of U.S. citizens seeking legal status. By treating them like all other immigrants and subjecting them to increased enforcement and scrutiny, the administration has upended long-standing protections and created widespread fear and instability for countless American families. The effects of these policies continue to ripple through communities, leaving many in limbo and uncertain about their future in the United States.

Source article

Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/07/06/nx-s1-5850322/trump-marriage-citizenship-spouse-scrutiny-policy-change

WATCH: Trump delivers keynote address at ‘Salute to America 250’ event on the National Mall

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-05 10:48:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump Blends Partisan Rhetoric with Patriotic Themes at 250th Independence Day Celebration

President Donald Trump marked the 250th anniversary of American independence in Washington with a speech that combined patriotic tributes with sharp partisan messaging, diverging from the traditional unifying tone of Independence Day addresses.

During his remarks, Trump called the occasion “one of the most joyous and glorious milestones of all time.” He honored veterans, including World War II servicemembers and a pioneering Black Special Forces officer from the Vietnam War, in front of historic flags representing pivotal moments in U.S. history.

However, Trump used the national celebration to promote the SAVE America Act, an elections bill currently facing resistance, including from some Republicans in Congress. He also emphasized his support for the Second Amendment and renewed his denunciations of communism, a theme that has become increasingly central to his political messaging ahead of the November midterms.

Trump’s approach stood out as unusually partisan for an Independence Day speech, which presidents have typically used to foster national unity. Instead, he leaned into campaign-style rhetoric, reflecting his ongoing efforts to shape national events to his own political agenda. The event itself was organized by groups closely aligned with the White House, replacing a bipartisan congressional committee that had previously overseen such celebrations.

Trump told the crowd, “We will always be on top. We will never let our country fall. We will always be the best.” He also injected humor by joking about seeking a third presidential term and commenting on the World War II generation, saying, “They are the greatest generation. I hate to admit that, but they are.”

The president’s speech capped a day of festivities that were disrupted by severe weather across the East Coast, forcing evacuations and cancellations in several cities, including Washington, D.C.

Conclusion

President Trump’s 250th Independence Day address was notable for its blend of patriotic homage and overt partisan advocacy. By using the national stage to promote his legislative priorities and campaign themes, Trump once again demonstrated his willingness to break from presidential tradition and inject divisive rhetoric into moments typically reserved for national reflection and unity.

Source article

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/watch-trump-delivers-keynote-address-at-salute-to-america-250-event-on-the-national-mall