Fox News Hourly Update – 6PM ET | July 17, 2025
On the July 17, 2025, episode of the Fox News Hourly Update, hosted by Lisa Lacera, a range of pressing national issues were discussed, spanning fiscal policy, high-profile legal matters, significant economic updates, security concerns for public officials, cultural losses, and the impact of extreme weather on the entertainment industry. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key topics covered in the episode.
1. House Votes on $9 Billion Spending Cuts
The House of Representatives is poised to vote on substantial spending cuts amounting to $9 billion, targeting foreign aid and public broadcasting. Caroline Levitt, White House Press Secretary, defended these cuts, asserting their necessity.
Caroline Levitt [00:16]: “These are not honest news organizations. These are partisan left wing outlets that are funded by the taxpayers. And this administration does not believe in a good use of the taxpayers time and money.”
Levitt emphasized that the administration views certain news organizations as partisan and an inefficient use of taxpayer dollars. In contrast, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer voiced strong opposition, suggesting that the proposed cuts are out of touch with public sentiment.
Chuck Schumer [00:32]: “Just like with the big ugly bill. The more Americans learn about what Republicans just did in this rescission package, the more they won't like it and the more Republicans will squirm.”
Schumer warned that increased awareness of the cuts would lead to waning public support and political repercussions for Republicans.
2. Epstein Files and Special Counsel Debate
The House is currently delaying the vote on the spending cuts as Democrats exert pressure on Republicans to authorize the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein’s case. This development comes amidst differing opinions on whether a special counsel should be appointed to investigate the handling of Epstein’s prosecution.
Pam Bondi, acting U.S. Attorney for D.C., highlighted that the demands for transparency are not solely from Democrats.
Pam Bondi [01:12]: “It's not just Democrats demanding answers. After the Justice Department concluded there was no evidence of a client list, some Republicans and conservative influencers have called for a special counsel.”
However, Caroline Levitt maintained that President Trump does not support the appointment of a special prosecutor in the Epstein case.
Caroline Levitt [01:22]: “The president would not recommend a special prosecutor in the Epstein case. That's how he feels.”
Bondi countered by stating that despite the president's stance, there is a directive to release any additional credible information discovered.
Pam Bondi [01:28]: “But Levitt says President Trump has directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to release any additional credible information discovered about the case.”
Levitt also criticized the media's focus on the Epstein investigation, questioning its prioritization.
Caroline Levitt [01:05]: “Like to see Democrats in the mainstream media covering this like it's the biggest story that the American people care about.”
3. Federal Judge Rules on FTC Member Firing; Wall Street Update
Jared Halpern reported a significant legal development where a federal judge adjudicated that the dismissal of Rebecca Slaughter, a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) member by President Trump, was unlawful.
Jared Halpern [01:35]: “A federal judge has ruled the firing of Federal Trade Commission member Rebecca Slaughter by President Trump was illegal.”
In addition to this legal news, Halpern provided an economic update indicating positive movements in the stock market.
Jared Halpern [01:35]: “Wall street another positive day for the major indexes after some better than expected updates on the economy. The Dow gained $2.29. The NASDAQ 153.”
4. Congressional Threats: Seth Jason Charged
A concerning security issue was addressed regarding threats made against members of Congress. A man named Seth Jason has been federally charged for threatening to murder Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene and her family. Chuck Schumer elaborated on the severity and persistence of these threats.
Chuck Schumer [02:53]: “Green just this week said she has faced numerous death threats during her time in office. Member security has been a major focus on both sides of the aisle, especially in the wake of the recent assassination of Minnesota Democratic state lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark on Capitol Hill.”
Ryan Schmell added that these threats were made consistently from October 2023 through January of the current year.
Ryan Schmell [02:43]: “The threats were repeatedly and continuously made From October of 2023 through the end of January this year.”
The incident underscores ongoing concerns about the safety of public officials, highlighting bipartisan efforts to enhance member security in the wake of high-profile attacks.
5. Death of Music Icon Connie Francis
The news segment transitioned to the entertainment world with the passing of legendary singer Connie Francis at the age of 87. Ryan Schmell reflected on her illustrious career and personal struggles.
Ryan Schmell [03:20]: “Connie Francis became popular in the late 1950s and early 60s, noted for her strong voice and becoming one of the top female singers at the time, best known for her signature hit, 'Who's Sorry Now,' followed by hit after hit. Unfortunately, Francis's life wasn't always so rosy. She was raped at knifepoint in a motel room following a New York performance in 1974, struggled with mental health issues and temporarily was sidelined after she lost her voice for several years.”
Gary Baumgarten confirmed her passing and detailed the impact of her loss.
Gary Baumgarten [03:53]: “Connie Francis was 87.”
Connie Francis's legacy is marked by her significant contributions to music and her resilience in overcoming personal adversities.
6. Extreme Weather Disrupts Music Tours and Festivals
The episode also covered the recent cancellations and disruptions in the music industry due to extreme weather conditions. The Steve Miller Band has called off its U.S. tour, citing safety concerns amid rising temperatures and severe weather events.
Gary Baumgarten [03:53]: “The Steve Miller Band has cancelled its US tour, citing extreme weather as a safety concern for fans and for their crew.”
Previous events have already been affected, including the Bonnaroo festival being cut short in June due to heavy rain and heat-related illnesses impacting hundreds at the Rock Country Music Festival in Kentucky last week. These incidents reflect a broader pattern of weather-induced challenges facing the entertainment sector this summer.
Conclusion
The Fox News Hourly Update provided listeners with a thorough overview of significant legislative actions, ongoing legal battles, economic indicators, security issues facing lawmakers, notable cultural passings, and the tangible effects of extreme weather on public events. With direct quotes and expert analysis, the episode aimed to inform and engage its audience on the multifaceted developments shaping the national landscape.