Politics: 5 stories from this week
Personalized for you.
On Politics
May 17, 2025

Here are some stories you might have missed this week, curated by Times editors and personalized for you.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. behind a podium with the presidential seal, as Donald Trump looks on.

Eric Lee/The New York Times

Kennedy Swims in Washington Creek That Flows With Sewage and Bacteria

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the health secretary, shared photos of himself and his grandchildren swimming in waters that handle sewer overflow.

By Chris Cameron

James Comey, in a blue suit and red tie, looks to his side in front of a microphone.

Doug Mills/The New York Times

Secret Service is Asking Comey About a Photo of Seashells Spelling ‘86 47’

Senior administration officials have said the post amounted to an assassination threat by the former F.B.I. director.

By Eileen Sullivan and Michael S. Schmidt

Marty McGowan sitting on the steps of a staircase in his home.

Justin Cook for The New York Times

Why Are So Many Retirees Filing for Social Security Earlier?

An additional 276,000 people filed for Social Security benefits so far this fiscal year, up 13% from a year ago. Anxiety appears to be a driver.

By Tara Siegel Bernard

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Jason Andrew for The New York Times

At Supreme Court, a Once-Fringe Birthright Citizenship Theory Takes the Spotlight

Before the Trump presidency, there was broad consensus that the 14th Amendment established birthright citizenship for children born in the United States.

By Abbie VanSickle

Joe Biden, wearing a blue suit with a light blue necktie, sits in an armchair in the Oval Office. There is a fire burning in a fireplace behind him.

Doug Mills/The New York Times

A Book Points to Biden’s Decline and Democrats’ Cowardice: 6 Takeaways

The book, “Original Sin,” describes how Mr. Biden’s aides quashed concerns about his age. But the anonymous accounts show that many Democrats are still afraid to discuss the issue publicly.

By Reid J. Epstein

MORE ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

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The New York Times

Latest Polls: Do Americans Approve of President Trump?

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The New York Times

Tracking the Lawsuits Against Trump’s Agenda

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