Fox News Hourly Update: Detailed Summary Episode: 6PM ET 07/04/2025 Newscast Release Date: July 4, 2025

Presidential Tax Cuts and Economic Agenda

Tom Graham opens the newscast by highlighting President Donald Trump's recent signing ceremony at the White House, marking the passage of a substantial tax cut and spending package. This legislation is portrayed as a significant component of the President's economic strategy, building upon the 2017 tax cuts.

Donald Trump emphasizes the administration's success, stating at [00:11], "We have so many people in the audience that have so much to do with the success of our country... they are saying the last two weeks there has never been anything like it as far as winning, winning, winning."

This sentiment underscores the administration's confidence in its economic policies and their impact over the past six months, which Trump claims have been the most successful tenure in the presidency.

Democratic Concerns on Medicaid Changes

While celebrating the economic achievements, Graham reports that Democrats have expressed concerns over the new legislation, particularly regarding alterations to Medicaid. They warn that these changes could result in numerous Americans losing their health insurance coverage, signaling a contentious debate over the administration's healthcare policies.

Texas Flooding and National Guard Response

The newscast transitions to the severe flooding in Texas, where the National Guard has been deployed in response to extreme weather conditions. Tragically, at least 13 people have died after rising waters submerged a Christian camp northwest of San Antonio around 4 AM. Donald Trump comments on the severity of the weather, noting at [00:55], "The rain came down 12 inches or more per hour," highlighting the unprecedented nature of the flooding.

International Relations: Conversations with Ukraine and Russia

President Trump has been actively engaging on the international stage. Graham reports that Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky this morning, following a recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Volodymyr Zelensky is quoted at [01:07]: "I had a very important and fruitful conversation with President Trump. We discussed the current situation in the war with Russia and opportunities in air defense. We agreed to work together to strengthen the protection of Ukraine's skies."

Despite these discussions, the Pentagon has announced a temporary pause on some air defense weapons shipments to Ukraine due to concerns over US stockpiles. Additionally, President Trump mentioned to reporters that no progress was made on the peace process during his call with Putin on Thursday.

Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest

Shifting to lighter news, Graham covers the annual Fourth of July hot dog eating contest in New York's Coney Island. Jared Halpern of Fox News reports that Joey Chestnut once again claimed the "mustard belt," consuming more than 70 hot dogs in 10 minutes, showcasing his continued dominance in the competitive eating scene.

Environmental Protection Agency Actions

The report takes a serious turn as Tom Graham discusses actions taken by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) against its employees.

Lillian Wu provides details at [02:23]: "Around 140 employees who signed a letter of dissent against the Trump administration's policies have been placed on leave by the EPA while it investigates the letter made public Monday. In it, current and former staffers express concerns about the administration undermining public trust, ignoring scientific consensus to benefit polluters, and cutting environmental justice initiatives."

These employees and their advocates argue that the EPA's actions violate their First Amendment rights, asserting that the agency is retaliating against dissent. The EPA, however, maintains that the actions are warranted because the employees' letter "denigrates leadership using their official titles."

U.S.-Saudi Relations Amid Gaza Conflict

In the midst of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, President Trump has held a surprise meeting with the Saudi Defense Minister at the White House. Jennifer Griffin from Fox's Pentagon bureau reports at [03:12] that the discussions touched upon potential normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel, focusing on the necessary steps involving the Palestinians to facilitate such a move.

This meeting comes just days before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's planned visit. Griffin adds, "According to multiple sources, there was progress and optimism on all fronts during the talks with the Saudi crown prince's brother. The Saudis are also finalizing a defense and trade deal with the U.S."

Meanwhile, Graham notes that Hamas has responded positively to President Trump's latest ceasefire proposal in Gaza, although they require further discussions on implementation. Hamas insists on guarantees that a truce will lead to the end of the war, leaving uncertainty about the potential agreement's finalization. Trump’s proposal includes a 60-day ceasefire contingent upon these guarantees.

Additional Programming and Resources

The newscast briefly promotes other Fox News programs and resources:

• Will Kane invites listeners to tune into "Will Kane Country" live at noon Eastern, Monday through Thursday, and to follow additional content on the Fox News YouTube channel and podcast platforms.

• An advertisement for the new Bret Baier podcast featuring "Common Ground" is also mentioned, encouraging listeners to engage with in-depth discussions and panel talks available on Fox News Podcasts.

This summary encapsulates the key topics covered in the Fox News Hourly Update on July 4, 2025, providing insights into domestic policies, international relations, environmental issues, and lighter news segments. Notable quotes from President Trump and other key figures are included to offer direct perspectives on the discussed matters.