Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy says he’ll back Todd Blanche’s nomination as attorney general, likely paving the way for Blanche to be confirmed to lead President Donald Trump’s Justice Department. Blanche’s prospective confirmation appeared threatened earlier Friday, when Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski announced her opposition. Murkowski cited concern that the administration could proceed with a $1.8 billion fund to compensate Trump allies, despite Blanche formally terminating it. Also, an appeals court has ruled Trump must seek approval from Congress to build his proposed White House ballroom, saying construction must stop. The U.S. Court of Appeals sided with historic preservationists who sued to stop construction.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says trade negotiations with the United States had turned “nasty” after President Donald Trump derided America’s neighbor and its leadership while threatening to expand tariffs. Carney said Canada remained engaged in the negotiations despite Trump’s comments, describing the talks as a fight to protect Canadian workers and businesses. Trump criticized Canada during a speech Wednesday in Las Vegas. Carney laughed when asked about Trump’s description. He said Canadian negotiators were in Washington this week and that he expected further conversations with Trump after speaking with him last week.

President Donald Trump has been highlighting his economic achievements, pointing to record stock market highs and claims of increased hiring, manufacturing, and investment. Some claims are true, while others are exaggerated or unclear. Ahead of the November 3 midterms, voters are frustrated with the economy and high living costs. An AP-NORC poll in late July showed only 32% of U.S. adults approved of Trump’s handling of the economy. Meanwhile, 69% described the economy as “poor,” with many citing the cost of essentials like groceries and gas as major stressors.

A small refinery tucked inside a New Hampshire office park is helping produce the critical minerals needed in the missiles used in the Iran war. Phoenix Tailings is among the few U.S. companies processing these minerals and received $500 million from the Pentagon to expand its capacity. But it will take a while to ramp up its work. In addition, most new U.S. mines are years away from reality as the country tries to build up domestic supplies of critical minerals free of Chinese control. As the White House is demanding military contractors speed up weapons production, it’s also imposing stricter rules banning them from sourcing critical minerals from China.