TRUMP TAX Bill Stalled: Shocking GOP Rebellion, Rushdie Attacker Gets 25 Years, and Prison Break Sparks Fear

Here is your news briefing for today, May 16, 2025:

House Republicans have delayed the vote on the much-anticipated “big, beautiful” tax bill proposed by former President Trump. The hold-up comes as five GOP members stall progress, citing concerns about certain regulatory provisions in the legislation.

This delay adds uncertainty to the bill’s timeline and future prospects in Congress.

In the justice system, the man who stabbed author Salman Rushdie during a public event has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. The sentence reflects the seriousness with which courts are treating attacks on free speech and public figures.

Meanwhile, 11 inmates, including some facing murder charges, have escaped from a prison in New Orleans. Officials suspect inside help in the breakout, heightening concerns about prison security.

The political landscape remains tense with new developments.

Former FBI Director James Comey is under investigation by the Secret Service for a social media post seen as a potential threat to Trump.

Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security released bodycam footage related to the arrest of Newark’s mayor, sparking debate about law enforcement transparency.

In immigration news, the Trump administration has suspended the asylum system, leaving many immigrants in legal limbo. This move tightens border enforcement and slows processing times, intensifying an already complex immigration debate in the U.S.

On another front, more Republicans are pushing legislation to criminalize transporting illegal immigrants across state lines.

Severe weather is threatening several regions, with forecasters warning of storms, hail, and tornadoes across Appalachia and the Midwest. Residents are urged to stay alert as millions face the risk of damaging winds and flooding.

On economic fronts, New Jersey Transit train engineers launched a strike, disrupting commutes for around 350,000 people. Also, a major merger is underway between cable giants Charter and Cox, aiming to better compete against streaming services with a combined valuation of $34.5 billion.

Lastly, cultural headlines include NYU withholding diplomas from graduates who openly condemned the Gaza war, raising questions about academic freedom.

Meanwhile, the plans for the LA 2028 Olympics are advancing with ambitions to introduce air taxi services for spectators, marking a push for high-tech transportation solutions.

This briefing covers key political, legal, immigration, economic, weather, and cultural developments shaping America today. For ongoing coverage and detailed analysis, stay tuned to LifeLine™ Media.