Up First from NPR Epstein Troubles In Congress, 2016 Election Interference, Columbia Student Discipline
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Jul 23, 2025 House Republicans rushed off for summer break to sidestep the Epstein scandal's fallout. President Trump's former spy chief stirred controversy by publishing Obama-era emails, sparking debate over election interference. In a separate storm, Columbia University is imposing severe penalties on students after their pro-Palestinian protests. The political landscape is tense as these issues collide, revealing deep divisions and raising questions about campus freedom amid growing anti-Semitism.
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Epstein Records Cause GOP Rift
- House Republicans left early for recess to avoid a battle over releasing Jefferson Epstein investigation details.
- The issue deeply divides Republicans and may escalate when Congress returns, risking political consequences.
Russian Election Interference Clarified
- Obama's officials initially assessed large-scale Russian hacking unlikely before the 2016 election.
- The 2017 intelligence community concluded Russia tried influencing voters via disinformation and leaks, not hacking vote totals.
Columbia Protest Crackdown
- Columbia University suspended or expelled 70+ students for disruptive pro-Palestinian protests.
- This disciplinary action relates to government pressure over anti-Semitism and withholding federal research funds.