Two top congressional Democrats have pressed Secretary of State Marco Rubio for answers regarding a now-canceled plan to purchase $400 million of armored electric vehicles from Tesla, as reported by NPR. The Democrats highlighted concerns about potential violations of federal procurement laws and enrichment of Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk. While a State Department spokesperson mentioned that there are no current plans to proceed with the purchase, questions remain about the origins of the procurement plans and potential document alterations. The Biden administration document showed a significantly lower budget for electric vehicle acquisition, raising suspicions about the exaggerated $400 million estimation. Rubio was asked to clarify if the purchase amount was intentionally changed and to provide evidence of definitively abandoning the contract. Despite the canceled plan, uncertainties persist about the initiation of the $400 million Tesla procurement under the Trump administration. The State Department and Musk have not responded to requests for comment.

President Donald Trump has granted a one-month tariff reprieve to automakers like General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis, delaying tariffs on automobile imports from Canada and Mexico. The automakers are expected to move their offshore operations to the United States by April 2 to comply with the USMCA agreement. The tariffs could potentially increase car prices by up to $12,000, impacting demand and leaving dealers with unsold inventory. Trump's administration is pushing for automakers to shift production to the U.S. before the tariffs take effect. Ford, for instance, has invested billions in the U.S. and plans further investments to align with USMCA requirements.

The U.S. Supreme Court has given the green light for Donald Trump's sentencing in a criminal case involving hush money paid to a porn star. The sentencing is set for Friday in Manhattan, with the trial judge indicating no prison time for Trump. In a 5-4 decision, two conservative justices, including Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett, sided with three liberal justices to deny Trump's last-minute attempt to halt the sentencing. The court emphasized that any trial issues could be addressed through the normal appeal process. Despite facing a guilty judgment, Trump may receive unconditional discharge without prison, fines, or probation. The decision was opposed by four conservative justices. Trump, the first former U.S. president to face criminal prosecution, plans to appeal the case. The Supreme Court's ruling comes after previous victories for Trump in other legal cases.

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, reflects on his 20-year bond with the late President Jimmy Carter, whom he considers a mentor. Tedros highlights Carter's humility and compassion, emphasizing their shared work in global health. Carter's legacy includes efforts to eradicate Guinea worm through community empowerment. Tedros credits Carter for supporting his WHO director-general campaign and emphasizes Carter's focus on capacity building and resilience in the face of setbacks. The article sheds light on the personal side of Carter, showcasing his impactful contributions beyond his public image.

Chinese venture capitalists are relentless in pursuing failed startup founders to reclaim their investments, a stark contrast to the U.S. where losses are typically accepted. In China, VCs are invoking redemption clauses to go after founders' personal assets, leaving some indebted and restricted from certain activities. This aggressive approach is causing concern about the impact on China's startup ecosystem, already struggling due to various challenges. The situation reflects broader issues in China's tech industry and economic landscape.