Fox News Hourly Update: Detailed Summary of 8AM ET Newscast on July 17, 2025

Hosted by Fox News Radio, the 8AM ET Newscast on July 17, 2025, delivered a comprehensive overview of current events spanning federal legislation, political controversies, weather updates, tragic incidents, and significant developments in the financial sector. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed, enriched with notable quotes and structured for clarity.

1. Federal Funding Cuts and Bipartisan Opposition

Amended Senate Bill Reduces Federal Spending

The Newscast opened with Dave Anthony reporting on a significant development in federal budgeting. An amended bill passed by the Senate after 2 o'clock this morning seeks to cancel over $9 billion in federal funding previously approved. This move targets what the Department of [DOGE] (likely a transcription error, potentially referring to the Department of Education or similar) has identified as wasteful expenditures.

Majority Leader John Thune's Standpoint

Majority Leader John Thune addressed the implications of the bill, stating, "This is about 1/10 of 1% of all federal spending, but it's a step in the right direction" (00:02). He highlighted that the cuts specifically target funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and USAID. While the bill proposes approximately $9.4 billion in cuts, it also includes provisions to restore funding for the global AIDS program known as PEPFAR.

Bipartisan Resistance from Senators Murkowski and Collins

In a notable show of bipartisanship, Senators Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, both Republicans, joined Democrats in voting against the bill. Chad Bergman from Fox reported that their primary concern revolves around the potential negative impact of cuts to NPR and PBS, especially in rural areas (00:45). This collaboration underscores the delicate balance lawmakers seek between reducing federal expenditures and maintaining essential public services.

2. House Advances Cryptocurrency Regulation Bills

The House of Representatives made headlines by advancing three cryptocurrency regulation bills towards final passage, potentially advancing as early as the current day (01:20). This legislative action reflects the growing recognition of cryptocurrency's role in the modern financial landscape and the need for structured oversight to ensure market stability and protect consumers.

3. New York City Mayoral Nominee Controversy

Democratic Support for Zoran Mandani

Turning to local politics, Dave Anthony discussed the backing of Zoran Mandani as the nominee for New York City Mayor. Mamdani convened with Democrats in Washington, gaining endorsements, including from Congresswoman Ro Donna, who remarked, "He's a very charismatic, relatable person and he spent a lot of time talking about the cost of living in New York, in this country and how we address it" (01:10).

Internal Party Divisions and Criticism

Despite the support, Mamdani faces criticism within his party. Some Democrats are hesitant to fully endorse his progressive agenda, and there are allegations labeling him as anti-Semitic. Adding to the controversy, President Trump has publicly termed Mandani a "communist," intensifying the political debate surrounding his candidacy.

4. Severe Weather in Southern Louisiana

Flood Watches Issued Amid Potential Tropical Depression

The region was also alerted to severe weather conditions. Dave Anthony reported that flood watches and warnings have been issued for southern Louisiana as a storm system, potentially escalating to a tropical depression, is expected to deliver up to a foot of rain in certain areas (01:50). Residents are advised to take necessary precautions in anticipation of the heavy rainfall.

5. Tragic Incident at New Jersey Archery Range

Lightning Strike Claims a Life

A sudden and tragic event was recounted by Dave Anthony: a lightning strike at an archery range in New Jersey resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to more than a dozen others (02:15). Witnesses attempted to perform CPR on the deceased before first responders arrived, but unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful. Fortunately, all other injured parties are expected to recover.

6. Passing of Music Legend Connie Francis

Remembering a Trailblazing Artist

In entertainment news, Gary Baumgarten shared the somber announcement of the passing of Connie Francis, a trailblazing singer who made history by topping the Billboard Hot 100 in 1960 with her number one hit (02:45). At 87 years old, Francis was recognized as the first woman to achieve this milestone on the chart, marking a significant moment in music history.

7. Legal Battle Over Birthright Citizenship Order

President Trump's Attempt to Amend Citizenship Laws

The discussion shifted to a pivotal legal issue concerning President Trump's attempt to modify a constitutional provision that grants American citizenship to any child born in the U.S. (birthright citizenship). Dave Anthony highlighted that this matter has returned to the federal courtroom in Maryland (03:00).

Judge Deborah Boardman's Preliminary Injunction

Tanya J. Powers reported that U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman is poised to become the second federal judge to block Trump's executive order nationwide. While she did not issue an immediate ruling, Judge Boardman stated, "I would grant class action status on behalf of all children affected by the order and grant a preliminary injunction blocking it" (02:41). This follows a similar decision by a New Hampshire federal judge, intensifying the legal confrontation over birthright citizenship. The matter is expected to escalate to the Supreme Court, which last month limited judges' authority to issue nationwide injunctions.

8. Boeing 737 Max Litigation Settlement

Settlement Reached Over Flight Incident

Dave Anthony introduced a segment on aviation safety, noting that a legal dispute regarding a flight incident appears to have been resolved (03:19). Kristen Goodwin reported that attorneys representing three plaintiffs have settled with Alaska Airlines and Boeing. The terms of the agreement remain undisclosed. The plaintiffs had sued for $1 billion in damages after a door plug malfunctioned on a Boeing 737 Max aircraft during a flight from Oregon to California last year. Remarkably, the plane landed safely with no injuries, although the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) faulted Boeing for oversight lapses, specifically noting missing bolts from the door plug panel.

9. Wall Street Update and President Trump's Comments on the Federal Reserve

Mixed Reactions in Stock Futures

Kristen Goodwin provided an update on the financial markets, indicating that stock futures were mixed following gains in the Dow and a record high for the NASDAQ. This movement came in the wake of President Trump's comments downplaying reports of a potential firing of Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell (03:55).

President Trump's Critique of Jerome Powell

President Trump did not mince words about Powell, labeling him a "knucklehead" and a "stupid and a moron" for not cutting interest rates (03:55). Despite these harsh criticisms, Trump asserted, "I'm not considering firing him. He's doing a lousy job." He added a note of optimism regarding a possible change in leadership, stating, "We get fortunately, we get to make a change in the next, what, eight months or so? That's when Powell's term is up."

10. Closing Remarks

The Newscast concluded with a brief invitation from Janice Dean, encouraging listeners to join her every Sunday for uplifting stories focused on hope and community heroes (04:29). Dave Anthony wrapped up the episode by directing listeners to follow Fox News Podcast for continued updates.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the significant discussions and insights shared during the Fox News Hourly Update on July 17, 2025, providing listeners and non-listeners alike with a detailed overview of the day's pivotal events.