Federal Oversight: Rep. James Comer is pressing OPM for details on how taxpayer-funded settlements and mediation payouts are used to settle federal employee disputes—arguing transparency gaps and incentives may be encouraging frivolous claims and discouraging discipline. Housing Policy Shock: Florida’s House has pulled $50M from its Hometown Heroes down-payment help while the Senate wants $75M, putting a key first-time buyer program in limbo. Energy Costs at the Pump: Trump is backing a temporary federal gas-tax pause tied to the Iran war, but Congress still has to act. Market Outlook: Zillow warns price declines are spreading—forecasting drops in 309 metro areas through March 2027, with pandemic-era Sun Belt/Gulf boomtowns hit hardest. Local Land-Use Fight: Neighbors in Pensacola are rallying to stop removal of heritage oaks after a historic lot sale, highlighting how small parcels can trigger big community backlash. Construction Pressure: South Africa’s construction input costs are rising faster than house prices, keeping demand tilted toward existing homes.