US Congress

Senators are debating a nearly 1,000-page bill that is pivotal to President Donald Trump's domestic agenda.

The spending plan could also add nearly $3.3tn (£2.4tn) in debt, according to non-partisan analysis.

Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has refused to back the "Big Beautiful Bill", saying it will be "devastating" to people in his state.

Senate leadership twisted arms for an initial vote on the spending plan, which still needs final approval.

The tax and spending bill, which is set for a Senate vote, includes sweeping changes to taxes, Social Security and more.

The Senate parliamentarian, often called a referee, has thrown a spanner in Trump's tax bill.

The US defense secretary appeared to acknowledge incidental plans also exist for Panama, but avoided giving direct confirmation.

LaMonica McIver calls the move a "brazen attempt at political intimidation" after last month's incident in New Jersey.