President Donald Trump announced a 100% tariff on all branded or patented pharmaceutical products manufactured outside the United States, effective October 1st, 2025, unless companies build their manufacturing plants in America. The announcement came as former FBI Director James Comey was indicted on obstruction of justice and false statements charges, with critics alleging political interference in the Justice Department. In a statement from the White House X account, President Trump declared "JUSTICE IN AMERICA!" in relation to the proceedings. This follows reports that prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia had initially recommended against charges for Comey. Senator Tim Kaine criticized the indictment, stating, "I can spot trumped-up charges a mile away" and that Trump "fired a superb, ethical prosecutor when he refused to bring frivolous charges against those whom Trump perceived to be his enemies." He further accused the President of installing "one of his personal lawyers... to do his bidding." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed numerous generals and admirals, along with some staff, from around the world to convene at Quantico, Virginia, next week. Separately, the estate of Jeffrey Epstein has produced over 8,500 pages of unredacted calendars, call logs, and cash ledgers to the House Oversight Committee, with plans to release the records after redacting victims' names. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that "No one is above the law" and reiterated the FBI's commitment to accountability, particularly referencing the "Russiagate hoax" and the weaponization of federal law enforcement. This is in the context of Comey's indictment, which reportedly includes allegations of lying about his role in strategic media leaks to shape the Russia collusion narrative. Meanwhile, pro-Israel and pro-Palestine crowds faced off outside the Midtown hotel where Prime Minister Netanyahu is staying for the UN General Assembly. In Kentucky, Senator Rand Paul discussed his potential 2028 presidential run and his alliance with Representative Thomas Massie amidst criticism of Trump's influence within the Republican party. Previous reports indicated that seven individuals were arrested between 10:07 PM and 10:36 PM UTC in connection with a $1 million smash-and-grab robbery at a jewelry store in San Ramon, California. The FDA is also exploring an independent evaluation for DNA contamination in COVID-19 vaccines.
