Daily Digest
Monday, May 18, 2026 — the most important stories, distilled and fact-checked
US Justice Department launches $1.8 billion fund for Trump allies; global and domestic political, health, and economic developments unfold
The US Justice Department has established a $1.8 billion fund to compensate individuals who supported former President Trump and claim unfair investigation or prosecution. Internationally, Iran has created a new authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz amid stalled peace talks, while Cuba faces power outages linked to US sanctions. Domestically, Alabama prepares for primary elections with new congressional maps, and health concerns rise as an Ebola outbreak spreads in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Economic and social issues include efforts to lower drug prices through expanded generic options and a proposed bill to increase overtime pay eligibility for millions of workers.
Key Developments
- The US Justice Department announced a $1.8 billion fund to compensate Trump supporters alleging unfair investigations or charges.
- Iran established the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to control the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions and stalled peace talks.
- Alabama is conducting primary elections with special August primaries due to a new congressional district map approved by the Supreme Court.
- An Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has spread to Uganda, with experts warning it is larger than reported.
- President Trump added about 600 generic drugs to the TrumpRx program aiming to reduce drug prices for Americans.
- A new bill, the Restoring Overtime Pay Act of 2026, proposes raising the salary threshold for overtime eligibility, potentially benefiting nearly 30 million salaried workers.
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