Fox News Hourly Update – 6AM ET | July 19, 2025
The July 19, 2025, episode of the "Fox News Hourly Update" provides a comprehensive overview of several pressing national and international issues. Hosted by Debra Valentine, the newscast delves into the potential unsealing of the Jeffrey Epstein files, a tragic explosion within the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, declassified documents concerning Russia's impact on the 2016 U.S. election, new federal regulations on cryptocurrency, and a significant ceasefire agreement between Israel and Syria. The following sections offer a detailed summary of each topic, including notable quotes and attributions with corresponding timestamps.
1. Unsealing of Jeffrey Epstein Files
Introduction to the Topic At the outset [00:02], Debra Valentine announces the ongoing efforts to unseal documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, highlighting the bipartisan demand for transparency.
Congressional Efforts and Legislative Challenges Ryan Schmelz reports [00:13] on the House Democrats' attempt to attach legislation mandating the release of Epstein-related information to various GOP-backed bills. Despite robust efforts, the initiative falls short. The push for more information transcends party lines, with both Republicans and Democrats advocating for greater transparency.
Notable Quote Republican Congressman Tim Burchett emphasizes the frustration with the lack of action over the years, stating at [00:33]:
"This country is sick of child molesters and they're sick of pandering. And look, the Democrats had this thing for four years under Biden and they didn't do anything."
Presidential Involvement Schmelz further details [00:42] that President Trump has directed the Department of Justice to release grand jury testimony concerning Epstein, indicating high-level engagement in the matter.
Justice Department's Action Debra Valentine elaborates [00:51] that the Justice Department has formally requested a federal court to unseal documents tied to Epstein's grand jury records, signaling a significant step toward transparency.
2. Explosion at Los Angeles County Sheriff's Training Facility
Incident Overview Transitioning to local news, Debra Valentine reports [00:51] on a tragic explosion at a Los Angeles training facility that resulted in the deaths of three sheriff's deputies.
Detailed Reporting Jonathan Hunt provides an in-depth account [01:11], explaining that the explosion occurred while deputies were handling explosives transferred from another LA County agency. Initial reports indicated that the explosives were believed to be inert; however, it became apparent that at least one explosive device was active, leading to the devastating outcome.
Identified Victims At [01:49], Valentine identifies the fallen officers:
- Detective Joshua Kelly Eklund
- Detective Victor Leamas
- Detective Osborne
The community mourns their loss as investigations continue to determine the precise cause of the explosion.
3. Declassified Documents on Russia's Alleged Election Interference
Introduction to the Topic Debra Valentine shifts focus to national security [03:08], reporting that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has declassified documents concerning investigations during the Obama administration into Russia's alleged influence on the 2016 U.S. election.
Details of the Report Kevin Cork explains [03:23] that Gabbard's report alleges suppression and manipulation of intelligence findings. According to Gabbard, the intelligence community assessed that Russia did not play a significant role in influencing the election. However, these conclusions were reportedly suppressed after FBI Director James Comey indicated potential dissent from the draft findings, prompting high-level officials—including CIA Director John Brennan and Secretary of State John Kerry—to convene at the White House to scrutinize claims of Russian election meddling.
Call for Investigation Gabbard is advocating for the Justice Department to probe the declassified documents further, seeking clarity and accountability regarding the handling of intelligence related to election interference. Russia continues to deny any involvement in the 2016 election interference.
4. New Federal Regulations on Cryptocurrency: The GENIUS Act
Legislation Overview Debra Valentine introduces [04:00] the passage of the GENIUS Act, a landmark piece of legislation directed at establishing federal regulations for cryptocurrencies.
Detailed Explanation Chanley Painter breaks down [04:13] the implications of the GENIUS Act (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stakeholders). The Act specifically addresses stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency considered relatively safe due to their value being backed by assets like the U.S. Dollar or commodities such as gold.
Bipartisan Support and Controversies Valentine notes [04:37] that the bill garnered strong bipartisan support in Congress. However, the law includes provisions that prohibit members of Congress from profiting from stablecoins, a stipulation that has faced criticism from Democrats who point out that the presidency remains unaffected by this restriction. Additionally, two other cryptocurrency-related bills have already passed the House and are awaiting consideration in the Senate, though they encounter opposition.
5. Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Syria
International Development In a brief but significant report, Debra Valentine announces [04:37] that U.S. Envoy to Russia Tom Barrack has confirmed a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Syria. This development marks a crucial step towards peace and stability in the volatile Middle Eastern region.
Conclusion The July 19, 2025, episode of the "Fox News Hourly Update" provides listeners with a thorough examination of critical issues ranging from national security and legislative actions to tragic local incidents and international diplomacy. By highlighting key quotes and detailed reporting, the newscast ensures that its audience remains well-informed on the latest developments shaping the socio-political landscape.
