New York Times

1. Epstein Built Ties to U.S. Customs Officers, Prompting Criminal Investigation

   Jeffrey Epstein cultivated friendly relationships with several customs officers in the U.S. Virgin Islands, offering food, advice and even musical gigs.

2. Leon Botstein, Bard College’s President, Had Epstein Ties. He Is Also Seen as a Campus Savior.

   The president of Bard College raised millions to save his school from closure. As he sought donations, he talked with Jeffrey Epstein about music, watches and young female musicians.

3. Why Prosecutors in Sex-Crime Cases Often Turn to Trafficking Laws

   Lawyers build cases around these laws because the statutes are broad and use language that can encompass a variety of crimes, according to experts.

4. In 2025, Trade Deficit in Goods Reached Record High

   Data released Thursday by the Census Bureau showed the overall trade deficit with the world narrowed, the result of an expanding trade surplus in services. The trade deficit in goods was the highest on record.

5. Trump Mulls a North American Trade Pact Without Canada

   U.S. officials are threatening major changes to a trade agreement with Mexico and Canada that could upend the way business is done and leave Canada on the outs.