House Democrats are requesting the birthday book belonging to Jeffrey Epstein's estate, which reportedly contains a poem and drawing from Donald Trump, in an effort to obtain information without using subpoena power, according to Axios. This development comes as Democrats are reportedly seeking concrete information related to Epstein's associates, with the birthday book seen as a potential source. Separately, Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted for sex trafficking, has reportedly been questioned by the Department of Justice for approximately nine hours over two days after being granted a limited form of immunity. Sources told ABC News that Maxwell initiated these meetings. In international affairs, Acting U.S. Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea urged China to cease exports of dual-use goods to Russia, stating that Chinese-produced components are being recovered from Russian weapons used against Ukraine. This statement was made during a briefing on strengthening Ukrainian air defense and drone production. Domestically, Health Secretary RFK Jr. is reportedly planning to remove members from an advisory panel that decides on essential cancer screenings and preventive health measures covered by insurers, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. Meanwhile, some Republicans are pushing to undo a gambling tax hike that was included in a legislative package during the Trump administration, with House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith calling it a "mistake" by the Senate. In campaign news, Esther Kim Varet launched a "Troll Truck" for her campaign, costing $2,000 daily, to agitate against Representative Young Kim in California's 40th congressional district. The campaign is funded by individual donors, with no corporate PAC contributions. Separately, Donald Trump's team is reportedly displeased with Governor Kemp over a candidate selection in Georgia's Senate GOP primary battle, according to Fox News. Separately, US diplomats have inquired about the eligibility of non-white individuals for a refugee program established for South Africans under the Trump administration. The odds of Trump releasing Epstein files have reached 61%, according to Kalshi. In other news, Congressman Tom Tiffany is expected to decide on a potential run for Wisconsin governor within 30 to 60 days. A report from The Texas Tribune detailed allegations against Texas House Republican Giovanni Capriglione, including an alleged affair, paid abortions, and inappropriate fantasies. There have been no routine news briefings at the Pentagon this week, with previous briefings having occurred on March 17, June 22, June 26, and July 2.
