Axios

Opposition to President Trump's potential Spirit Airlines bailout is mounting in Congress, including among his fellow Republicans.

Why it matters: Lawmakers from both parties are questioning whether taxpayers should rescue a repeat-bankrupt airline with an uncertain path to profitability.

The disappearances and deaths of at least 10 scientists, researchers and staffers who worked on nuclear and space programs are raising alarms on Capitol Hill.

The big picture: The cases date back to at least 2023, but national security concerns prompted a House Oversight Committee investigation.

President Trump on Thursday will announce a drug pricing deal with Regeneron — the last of 17 manufacturers the administration pressured last year to commit to his "most favored nation" policy.

Why it matters: The deals with the other companies to lower certain drug prices are being touted as one of the administration's signature health accomplishments, though Democrats question whether the confidential arrangements are really helping consumers.

AI is no longer just a research tool in Washington, D.C. — it's starting to shape how policymakers form opinions, according to Penta Group data shared exclusively with Axios.

Why it matters: Policymakers are the latest to lean on AI for guidance, signaling its growing role in shaping decisions across markets, consumer behavior and now public policy.

At the start of the war, stocks fell and oil prices rose on fears of the economic fallout from a historic energy shock — now that connection is fraying.

Why it matters: It highlights a key distinction between the stock market, which frequently seems to trade on vibes and memes, and commodities markets which ultimately are tethered to real physical goods.

Economists and analysts say that AI in the long term will make the economy more productive — we'll get more done in less time, and that might even keep inflation in check.

Why it matters: It's a long complicated road to get to that fairy-tale ending. In the short term, AI is actually increasing inflation modestly at a time of more urgent inflationary pressures like war.

REDFORD, Texas — The Trump administration delivered a blunt message to angry landowners at a rare in-person meeting on Tuesday:

• Work with us on the border wall, or we'll build it anyway.

Why it matters: The Trump administration's pressure to show progress on border wall mileage in west Texas is leading to rushed and sloppy work that's infuriating local residents, ranchers and the tourism industry.

The death of Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.) has reignited a debate among Democratic lawmakers and activists about the party's aging — and often ailing — leadership.

Why it matters: Scott's death leaves the party down yet another vote at a high-stakes moment, some of his colleagues fumed on the condition of anonymity to speak candidly about the matter.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has fired Navy Secretary John Phelan. The Pentagon framed it Wednesday as an immediate departure.

Why it matters: The ouster of the Navy's top civilian caught many off-guard and adds to the pile of military officials who have either abruptly exited or been pushed out of their posts under Trump 2.0.

The redistricting war President Trump forced on his party appears to have backfired. With Virginia's vote Tuesday, Republicans are now favored in fewer House seats than if the war had never started.

Why it matters: Trump bet his slim House majority on a mid-decade redrawing frenzy. It's increasingly looking like a self-inflicted wound, leaving Republicans with long-shot hopes of any major rewards.