Newsweek is reporting that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth informed senators the U.S. war in Iran has cost an estimated $37.5 billion since fighting began in February, including projected spending through the end of the fiscal year. His testimony comes as lawmakers consider the White House’s request for an additional $87 billion in funding amid rising regional tensions. The outlet said 17 U.S. service members have been killed since the start of the Iran war, according to military figures.
Newsweek is also reporting that President Donald J Trump’s new 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods have opened another front in the trade war, with potential impacts extending beyond cars, alcohol and cheese to affect grocery bills. In politics, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill disclosed that a state Motor Vehicle Commission software error wrongly registered about 6,600 non-U.S. citizens to vote, providing ammunition for Trump and SAVE Act supporters.
Separately, Newsweek said Republican groups are currently outraising their Democratic rivals in the lead-up to this year’s midterm elections, according to recent financial disclosures. In world news, Nicaragua’s president, Daniel Ortega, announced the Central American nation will cease holding elections, further moving away from democracy amid crackdowns on dissent. Christopher Nolan’s film “The Odyssey” debuted with a career-best $264 million globally at the box office.