Trump Signs Bill Ending DHS Shutdown | Balance of Power: Late Edition 04/30/2026

“Balance of Power: Late Edition” focuses on the intersection of politics and global business. On today’s show, Leon Panetta, former US Defense Secretary and former CIA Director, criticizes Secretary Hegseth’s political tone in congressional testimony, arguing lawmakers have a duty to scrutinize defense spending. Kevin Book, Managing Director at ClearView Energy Partners, says oil markets are reacting to “uncertainty” tied to both White House policy and tensions in the Persian Gulf. Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council & Responsibility.org, says President Donald Trump’s pledge to remove a 10% tariff on UK spirits would “inject vitality” into the industry. (Source: Bloomberg)