Shangri-La Dialogue, Trump's Slush Fund, Gas Prices

Defense and security leaders gather in Singapore for the Shangri-La Dialogue, where US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urges Asian allies to increase defense spending to counter China. The summit also addresses tensions surrounding Taiwan and ongoing negotiations to end the war between the US and Iran.

This segment covers international and domestic political updates, beginning with US-China relations at the Shangri-La Dialogue and fading hopes for ending the war in Iran. It also examines domestic controversies, including a federal judge's ruling on the Kennedy Center's name, Donald Trump's controversial $1.8 billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund,' and potential customs staffing cuts in sanctuary cities. Finally, the discussion touches on Pam Bondi's testimony regarding Jeffrey Epstein and concerns over presidential health disclosures.

NPR hosts and correspondents discuss how rising gas prices are prompting American drivers to change their habits, leading to record traffic at discount fuel stations like Costco and Walmart. Additionally, global shipping concerns in the Middle East and potential blockages of the Strait of Hormuz are raising fears of further oil price spikes.