The White House is facing a significant legal setback as a federal appeals court ruled that Trump likely needs congressional approval for his controversial ballroom renovation project, a decision that could reshape how the administration approaches executive authority. The court’s ruling, which orders the Pentagon to review related projects, arrives as the administration simultaneously pushes forward on other fronts, including new executive orders targeting birth tourism and a renewed push for Senate recess appointments that pits the White House against congressional leadership.

The political landscape is shifting in the Senate, where the battle for control is taking unexpected turns. In Mississippi, Democrat Scott Colom is mounting a serious challenge in a state not typically considered competitive, highlighting how the fight for the majority is expanding the map. Meanwhile, the confirmation process for Todd Blanche’s attorney general nomination suffered a critical blow after losing another key Republican vote, and the Senate passed a long-championed Russia sanctions bill, demonstrating that bipartisan consensus still exists on certain national security issues.

The week also saw significant developments in the judiciary and voting rights. Justice Samuel Alito confirmed he will remain on the Supreme Court for another term, quelling speculation about an imminent retirement. A new analysis shows the ongoing gutting of the Voting Rights Act through redistricting, which played a visible role in Tennessee’s primary election results. And in a sign of the legal battles ahead, a fired federal prosecutor has sued the Justice Department over First Amendment violations, while the department faces competing pressures over whether to prosecute Dr. Anthony Fauci.