April 2025
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned of a "major negative shock" to the global economy due to US President Donald Trump's tariffs, cutting its forecast for global GDP growth to 2.8% for this year. The UK is expected to grow by 1.1% this year, down from 1.6%, with emerging economies potentially hit harder by unfavourable global financial conditions. The IMF has called for coordinated action to reduce trade tensions and address shared challenges, but its role in addressing the issue remains unclear due to the US's "America first" approach.
Intel Corp. plans to cut more than 20% of its staff, aiming to eliminate bureaucracy and rebuild an engineering-driven culture under new CEO Lip-Bu Tan's leadership. The move is part of a bid to streamline management and improve the company's balance sheet, following years of declining sales and revenue. Intel shares rose as much as 3.5% in premarket trading ahead of the announcement, which comes after last year's layoffs of about 15,000 jobs.
US President Donald Trump has signaled that tariffs on China will be cut "substantially," sparking a relief rally in global markets, with stocks rebounding and the US dollar strengthening. The comments from Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent have raised hopes for a de-escalation in the US-China trade war, although analysts remain skeptical about whether the rally can be sustained. The news has also led to a surge in Bitcoin prices, while gold prices fell sharply as investors took profits.
US President Trump has softened his stance on China tariffs, signaling a shift towards more diplomatic trade talks with China and lower tariffs than currently in place. This move comes after CEOs from major retailers such as Walmart and Target warned him about potential disruptions to supply chains and empty shelves if tariffs were not eased. The change in tone is seen as a response to mounting pressure from markets, investors, and corporate leaders, who fear the worst consequences of Trump's trade policies.
A survey of over 500 political scientists found that the vast majority believe the US is moving swiftly towards authoritarianism, with President Trump's administration receiving a rating of 55 on a scale from 0 to 100. Scholars point to tactics such as limiting press freedom and targeting universities as evidence of this trend, which they describe as "competitive authoritarianism." While some scholars disagree, many believe that the US system is not immune to these trends and that Trump's actions are eroding democratic institutions.
The US Department of Education will begin debt collection on federal student loans that are in default, starting May 5, which affects around 5.3 million borrowers who have not made payments for over nine months. The decision marks an end to leniency introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic and comes after President Biden's efforts to forgive student loans were blocked by courts. Borrowers can avoid wage garnishment by getting into loan rehabilitation, but critics say the new policy will cause economic chaos for working families.
Bill Owens, the executive producer of CBS News' "60 Minutes," has resigned from the program after citing encroachments on his journalistic independence. The decision comes amid mounting pressure from President Trump and corporate ownership at Paramount, which has led to additional layers of oversight on the show. Owens' departure marks a significant blow to the long-running news program, which has faced criticism from Trump over its reporting on him.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average is on track for its worst April performance since 1932, with investors expressing "no confidence" in the administration's ability to ease trade tensions and stabilize the economy. The S&P 500 has also seen its worst performance since Inauguration Day, with corporate earnings reports revealing tariff-dented outlooks for the months ahead. Investors are bracing for greater losses as government bonds and the US dollar come under pressure, leaving few havens to wait out the storm.
The Trump administration is considering issuing an executive order that would integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into K-12 education, instructing federal agencies to train students in using AI and partner with the private sector to develop relevant programs. The draft order, titled "Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for American Youth," aims to provide opportunities for students to cultivate skills necessary to use and create next-generation AI technology. If implemented, this would be the latest instance of the presidential office using an executive order to encourage the adoption of AI in education.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has informed nearly 280 employees working on environmental justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion that they will either be fired or reassigned as part of the Trump administration's effort to close the EPA's Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights. The move is expected to cut 105 jobs and reassign 175 employees, with some advocates worrying that it will disproportionately harm disadvantaged communities. The EPA has stated that the changes are necessary to align its workforce with current and future needs, but critics argue that they will undermine the agency's mission to protect human health and the environment.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth lashed out at reporters during the White House Easter Egg Roll, accusing "hoaxsters" and "fake news media" of spreading false information about his war plans. The incident marks the second time Hegseth has caused controversy by discussing sensitive matters on a commercial messaging app, Signal. Hegseth's behavior has raised concerns among some, including former Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot, who predicted that he will soon be ousted from his position.
DOGE, Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, has access to 19 sensitive systems at the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including a centralized accounting system for Medicare and Medicaid programs. This access was granted through three executive orders signed by President Donald Trump, which gave DOGE wide-ranging access to government systems in an effort to root out waste, fraud, and abuse. The HHS has confirmed that some DOGE affiliates have not received proper security training, raising concerns about the potential misuse of sensitive information.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared sensitive information about US military operations with his wife and brother via an unclassified messaging app, contradicting his claims that the information was not classified. The incident has raised questions about Hegseth's handling of national security information, with some officials expressing concern over his lack of experience leading a major organization. Despite calls for his dismissal from some Republicans, President Trump has expressed support for Hegseth, saying he is doing a "great job" and that the allegations are an attempt to sabotage him.
The US Department of Justice has granted access to sensitive immigration case data, including addresses and case histories of millions of immigrants, to a team of advisors from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The move is part of the Trump administration's efforts to crack down on undocumented immigrants, with officials seeking to use tax information and other data to identify those suspected of being in the country illegally. Critics argue that this access puts sensitive information at risk, particularly for immigrants who have interacted with law enforcement or sought asylum.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is amassing private medical records from various federal and commercial databases to support Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s autism study, which aims to provide comprehensive patient data for researchers. The NIH plans to link together medication records, lab testing data, genomics data, claims from private insurers, and data from smartwatches and fitness trackers to create a robust computational data platform. External researchers will be given grant funding and access to the records to produce Kennedy's autism studies, with "state-of-the-art protections" in place to protect confidentiality.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has unveiled a plan to reorganize the State Department, aiming to reverse "decades of bloat and bureaucracy" while aligning with President Trump's "America First" agenda. The proposed shake-up targets human rights programs and others focused on war crimes and democracy, potentially affecting hundreds of jobs, including the elimination of 132 offices and 700 positions. Rubio has distanced himself from a more radical plan that was previously circulated among officials, calling it a "hoax" and "fake news".
Despite global tariffs imposed by the US, Europe, and other countries, China's auto industry remains strong, with exports soaring 23% in 2024 to 6.4 million passenger vehicles. Chinese automakers are diversifying their markets, with Russia and the Middle East accounting for 35% of vehicle exports, surpassing combined shipments to Europe and North America. However, tariffs imposed by the US would increase the cost of China's exported vehicles and auto components by about 24%, which could moderate China's export growth in 2025.
Torsten Slok, chief economist at Apollo Global Management, predicts that the US will experience a recession in 2025 if high tariffs remain in place. According to Slok, there is a 90% chance of a two-quarter contraction in economic output, with gross domestic product dropping by 4 percentage points, due to the impact of China tariffs on small businesses. The tariffs are particularly damaging for retailers with limited cash reserves, which could lead to significant bankruptcies and damage to the labor market and consumer sentiment.
US President Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on the Supreme Court, claiming that it is blocking his efforts to deport "criminals" from the country without due process. Trump's comments come after the court blocked his deportation plan for Venezuelan immigrants under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act, and he has since vowed to find alternative ways to remove undocumented immigrants. The president's remarks have sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing him of undermining the rule of law and disregarding the rights of immigrants.
President Trump stated that he has "no intention" of firing Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, reversing his previous comments on social media. Trump's comments came after he had lashed out at Powell in recent days, expressing frustration with the Fed's monetary policy decisions. The president's statement suggests a shift in his stance on Powell's tenure as Fed chair.
US President Donald Trump met with executives from major retailers, including Walmart and Target, to discuss relief from tariffs that have destabilized global supply chains and rattled US consumers. The meeting came amid a 90-day pause in Trump's higher tariffs on trading partners except China, which has given some operators temporary relief but also created uncertainty around future duty rates. Retailers have warned that business could slow in the months ahead as the import taxes go into place, posing challenges for companies and the US economy.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's tenure at the Pentagon has been marked by chaos, with his inner circle in disarray and distrust growing among civil servants and senior military officials. Critics have accused Hegseth of disloyalty and incompetence, while supporters defend him as a champion of a "warrior ethos" that has been missing from the department. The Pentagon's civilian workforce is also under threat, with Elon Musk's team aiming to cut up to 200,000 jobs, sparking concerns about the impact on critical functions within the department.
The US FDA has suspended its quality control program for testing fluid milk and other dairy products due to reduced capacity in its food safety division, which was affected by workforce cuts. The suspension is part of a broader disruption to the nation's food safety programs, following the termination of 20,000 employees at the Department of Health and Human Services. The FDA will continue to test dairy products, but with an alternative approach, pending further evaluation.
The US Commerce Department has announced plans to impose tariffs of up to 3,521% on imports of solar panels from Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, in response to allegations of subsidies from China and dumping of unfairly cheap products in the US market. The proposed levies are part of a broader trade investigation that began last year, with the International Trade Commission set to reach a final decision in June. The tariffs could have significant implications for businesses and consumers who rely on affordable solar panel imports, but may also help US solar panel manufacturers.
The White House is reportedly looking to replace Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who is facing controversy over sharing classified information with his wife and others in private Signal group chats. The Pentagon warned about the security risks of using messaging apps like Signal after Hegseth shared sensitive details about airstrikes on Yemen, which could have endangered US pilots if intercepted by adversaries. President Trump has backed Hegseth, but some lawmakers are calling for him to accept responsibility for his actions and for Trump to take steps to address concerns over information security.
The US has seen a significant surge in whooping cough cases, with 8,077 reported cases in 2025, compared to 3,847 cases in the same period last year. The rise in cases coincides with declining childhood vaccination rates and cuts to federal health agencies and funding, which have destabilized programs that monitor disease and promote vaccination. Experts warn that the country is "backsliding" in keeping children from dying of preventable diseases like whooping cough.
A Delta Air Lines passenger jet caught fire on the tarmac at Orlando International Airport on Monday, prompting passengers to evacuate via emergency slides. The incident occurred when one of the plane's two main engines caught fire while pushing back from the gate for departure, but fortunately, all passengers were evacuated safely. The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) will investigate the incident, and Delta has apologized for the experience, assuring customers that safety is their top priority.
US President Donald Trump's tariffs have triggered initial economic forecasts and surveys, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) set to lower its outlook for global economic growth. The IMF's new projections will include notable markdowns but not recession, while finance ministers and central bankers are expected to assess the damage from Trump's trade war. The coming days will feature a meeting of Group of 20 finance chiefs, which may help lower tensions in global trade relations.
The Trump administration has quietly revoked hundreds of student visas across the US, affecting over 1,500 international students from nearly 250 colleges. The reasons for revocation vary, but many cases involve alleged antisemitism or campus disruptions, with some students being targeted despite having no prior involvement in such activities. The move has sparked lawsuits and concerns among colleges and universities, which are struggling to understand the scope of the federal government's involvement in the visa process.
Harvard University has filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that it has violated the university's constitutional rights by freezing billions of dollars in federal funding and imperiling its academic independence. The suit claims that the government's actions flout the First Amendment and disregard laws regulating civil-rights investigations, and seeks to halt the funding freeze and declare both as illegal. Harvard argues that the administration is using antisemitism concerns as a pretext to exert control over universities, which it says undermines academic freedom and free speech.
Pete Hegseth, the US Defense Secretary, has been criticized by his former communications director John Ullyot for his handling of sensitive information and leadership style. Ullyot warned that more "bombshell stories" about Hegseth are set to leak over the next few weeks, citing a series of embarrassing blunders, including leaks of operational plans and mass firings within the Pentagon. The criticism comes as Hegseth faces an investigation into information leaks and is seen by some in Washington as presiding over a "month from hell" at the Pentagon.
Four Seattle police officers who attended President Donald Trump's "Stop the Steal" rally on January 6, 2021, are asking the US Supreme Court to keep their identities anonymous in public court records. The officers claim that revealing their names would violate their right to privacy and create a chilling effect on voicing unpopular opinions. A lower court had ruled that they could be identified, but the officers have submitted a petition to the Supreme Court seeking to maintain anonymity during their legal challenge.
A second Boeing 737 MAX jet is returning to the US after being sent back to China due to soaring tariffs between the two countries. The move follows another 737 MAX aircraft that was also returned to the US, as increased tariffs disrupt Boeing's delivery plans and impact the financial viability for Chinese airlines. Beijing is considering measures to support its airlines leasing Boeing jets amid the uncertainty surrounding aircraft deliveries.
The White House has begun searching for a new Secretary of Defense, following controversy surrounding Pete Hegseth's sharing of sensitive information with private Signal group chats. Hegseth shared details about upcoming strikes in Yemen with his wife and brother, minutes after being updated by a senior U.S. military official, and also leaked classified information to a journalist through a Signal chat with top White House officials. The Pentagon has warned that the Signal app is vulnerable to hackers, and four senior advisers to Hegseth have left abruptly, some accused of leaking.
The federal government's "5 things" email requirement, which was introduced by Elon Musk and President Donald Trump to track employees' accomplishments, has fallen apart due to inconsistent policies across agencies. Many federal workers have refused to comply with the directive, with some even submitting responses in foreign languages or generating lengthy word salads as a form of resistance. The emails were initially intended to drive a high-intensity work culture, but their effectiveness and purpose remain unclear, with some employees viewing them as an unnecessary burden.
US President Donald Trump is set to meet with executives from major retailers Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and Lowe's at the White House to discuss the impact of sweeping tariffs on their businesses. The meeting comes amid a 90-day pause in Trump's higher tariffs on trading partners except China, which has created anxiety among companies that source goods from outside the country. The tariffs have already led to a surge in US retail sales as consumers rush to purchase items before the levies take full effect.
The US Education Department will begin collecting on student loans that are in default starting May 5, including garnishing wages for potentially millions of borrowers. Currently, around 9.3 million borrowers are in default or at risk of default, with only about 40% currently making payments. The move marks a shift away from leniency during the COVID-19 pandemic and is part of a broader effort to have borrowers return to repayment.
Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.), a prominent Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, has become the first GOP lawmaker to recommend that President Donald Trump fire Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth due to concerns over his lack of experience and mismanagement of sensitive information. Bacon criticized Hegseth's decision to use a private device to communicate classified information, citing the risk of foreign adversaries hacking into officials' phones. The Nebraska lawmaker's comments come amid a larger string of high-level firings and public dramas within the administration.
The Krome migrant detention center in Miami, Florida, has been plagued by reports of overcrowding, poor conditions, and mistreatment of detainees, sparking protests and outrage among advocates. The facility, which holds over 600 migrants despite having only 581 beds, has been criticized for its lack of basic amenities, including food, water, and access to bathrooms, leading some detainees to request deportation rather than face further detention. The situation has drawn attention to the use of cruelty as a deterrent strategy in immigration enforcement, with viral videos and testimonies from lawyers, family members, and detainees highlighting the deplorable conditions at Krome.
The US Department of Justice has asked the Supreme Court to reject an emergency request by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to pause deportations under the Alien Enemies Act, which would send migrants to El Salvador. The ACLU had filed an appeal after concerns that more deportation flights were imminent, but Solicitor General D. John Sauer argued that the lower courts should address the relevant legal and factual questions first. The Supreme Court's order temporarily blocks deportations until further notice, applying only to migrants detained in the Northern District of Texas under the 18th-century law.
Former Pentagon spokesperson John Ullyot has accused Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of leading the Department of Defense into "disarray" due to leaks and mass firings, which have created a major distraction for President Donald Trump. Ullyot, who recently resigned from his position, claims that Hegseth's leadership is causing chaos and that more firings may be coming. The Pentagon has faced scrutiny in recent weeks over officials' sharing of sensitive information and several high-profile firings.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared sensitive information about upcoming strikes in Yemen on an encrypted Signal chat group that included his wife and brother, raising questions about security protocols. The chat, created by Hegseth before his confirmation as defense secretary, was initially used for routine administrative or scheduling information but later included sensitive military operations. The revelation has sparked controversy and led to the firings of several top advisers to the defense secretary, with some calling it a national security breach.
Six men have been charged with various crimes, including battery and false imprisonment, after forcibly removing a woman from a Kootenai County town hall meeting in February. The incident occurred when Teresa Borrenphol repeatedly interrupted speakers during the event, prompting the men to remove her in plain clothes. The Coeur d'Alene City Attorney's Office has filed charges against the six men, including Paul Trouette and Russell Dunne, who are accused of violating city ordinances regarding security agencies.
Since President Donald Trump's pardons, some individuals who rioted at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, are being welcomed as honored guest speakers at local Republican events around the country. These pardoned rioters, including Ryan Kelley and James Grant, are drawing praise in conservative circles as heroes and martyrs, with some even considering runs for office. The move has raised concerns about the mainstreaming of political violence on the right, with historians warning that it could be a potent rallying cry for Trump's base but also a danger to elevating those who used violence to stop the peaceful transfer of power.
The Trump administration has drafted an executive order that proposes a drastic overhaul of the State Department, including eliminating Africa operations and shutting down embassies and consulates across the continent. The proposed changes aim to "streamline mission delivery" while cutting "waste, fraud and abuse," but are likely to face lawsuits and congressional challenges. The draft order also calls for significant reductions in personnel, including career diplomats and civil service employees, as well as a shift towards using artificial intelligence to help draft documents.
Thousands of protesters across the United States demonstrated against President Donald Trump's policies on Saturday, denouncing his aggressive immigration policies, budget cuts, and handling of conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. The rallies, organized by the group 50501, aimed to show solidarity with migrants targeted by Trump's deportation policies and federal employees who lost their jobs due to government spending cuts. The protests, which took place at hundreds of events across the country, expressed concern that Trump was threatening democracy and the ideals held by the United States.
The parent company of Reuters is dropping "diversity" in favor of "belonging" in response to Trump E.O. "to ensure ongoing compliance."
President Donald Trump plans to name Gary Shapley, a former IRS criminal investigator who alleged partisan bias by Justice officials hindered an investigation into Hunter Biden's tax crimes, as acting commissioner of the IRS. Shapley's appointment comes after the resignation of the previous acting commissioner and amid controversy over data sharing agreements with immigration agencies. The move has sparked dismay among some former IRS officials, who describe it as a "sh*tshow."
An Indonesian student, Aditya Wahyu Harsono, was detained by federal agents at his hospital workplace in Minnesota after his US student visa was secretly revoked, despite his attorney claiming it was done without notice. Harsono's case can proceed to an immigration judge, who denied a motion to dismiss on humanitarian grounds, and he remains in custody due to a DHS appeal of his $5,000 bond decision. The revocation of Harsono's visa is part of a wave of reports of student visas being revoked under the Trump administration's new executive policy, leaving hundreds of scholars at risk of detention and deportation.
Residents across Maine gathered in protest against the Trump administration's policies, citing concerns over cuts to healthcare funding, social security, and protections for transgender student athletes. The protests, which have been ongoing since earlier this month, aim to push back against what organizers describe as threats to democracy and equality under the law. The events, including a pro-Trump rally in Ellsworth, demonstrate growing frustration with the administration's actions among Maine residents.
Two senior Russian officials reiterated Putin’s June 2024 non-negotiable demands for ending the war in Ukraine: regime change in Kyiv, extensive territorial concessions including all of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhia, and Kherson oblasts, and permanent limits on Ukraine’s military and sovereignty. The Kremlin continues to reject any peace proposals that do not meet these conditions, including President Trump’s 30-day ceasefire offer, and uses vague language to obscure its maximalist aims, which now also include threats against NATO states building up their defenses. Russian officials frame European efforts to increase their own defense capabilities—aligned with POTUS 47’s push for greater European burden-sharing—as provocative, and have threatened preemptive action in response. Meanwhile, Ukraine is restructuring its military for more effective operations, but the Russian leadership’s stance and ongoing offensive actions indicate little prospect for a negotiated settlement under current terms.
Chief Judge James Boasberg has determined that there is "probable cause" to believe that Trump administration officials who defied his order to halt deportations are guilty of contempt of court. The judge's original order, which required the government to provide due process to those affected by the deportation, was eventually vacated by five Supreme Court justices. If convicted, top officials could face a criminal trial, although it is unclear whether they will ultimately be held accountable for their actions.
The US Supreme Court has issued an order halting several illegal deportations of Venezuelan immigrants, citing concerns that the Trump administration's actions may violate due process and court orders. The decision comes after the ACLU filed an emergency application alleging that the government was moving the immigrants to a detention facility without explanation or opportunity for a hearing. The order is seen as a sign that the Court may be losing patience with the Trump administration's efforts to evade judicial review through procedural arguments.
The Trump administration plans to eliminate $307 million in funding for the USGS's Ecosystems Mission Area, which conducts research on conservation, climate change, and wildlife management. The move has sparked concern among scientists, who warn that it would be "devastating" to cut off long-term monitoring and research capabilities. Congress will ultimately decide on the fate of the program, but experts say it could face significant obstacles in the upcoming budget request.
The US Supreme Court has temporarily halted deportations of Venezuelan migrants under wartime law, citing concerns that they were not given proper judicial review. The decision comes after lawyers for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) reported that some men had already been loaded onto buses and told they were to be deported without adequate notice or opportunity to contest their removal. The move raises questions about the Trump administration's adherence to limits set by the Supreme Court, potentially leading to a constitutional crisis.
Following Harvard University President Alan M. Garber's announcement that he would not comply with the Trump administration's demands, the university received over $1 million in online donations from more than 3,800 donors, exceeding its average daily intake by 40 times. This surge in support is seen as a significant show of backing for Garber's stance and comes at a pivotal moment as Harvard faces a $2.2 billion cut in federal funding and recovers from a $151 million drop in donations last year. The outpouring of support has encouraged alumni to increase their donations, with some expressing hope that it marks a turning point in the university's fundraising efforts.
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that his state will sue the Trump administration over the reported dismantling of the AmeriCorps service program, citing threats to vulnerable Californians and disaster response efforts. The move comes as part of Newsom's ongoing efforts to challenge President Trump's policy agenda through lawsuits, following a similar announcement earlier this week regarding tariffs. California Attorney General Rob Bonta stated that the state will also accelerate recruitment for its own service corps program, which is already the largest in the nation.
The US government has placed nearly all federal staff at AmeriCorps, an independent agency that organizes community service work in the United States, on administrative leave due to cost-cutting efforts led by Elon Musk's team. The move affects around 75% of full-time employees and is expected to gut the agency's response work in regions affected by recent natural disasters. The changes come as part of a broader effort to eliminate "excess federal spending" and target AmeriCorps' $1 billion budget, which was previously criticized for being mismanaged.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has been significantly gutted, with nearly 1,400 employees terminated and only around 200 remaining, following a Trump administration shakeup. The agency's focus will shift away from supervisory roles towards "tangible harm to consumers," with medical debt, student loans, and consumer data being deprioritized. This move is seen as a major blow to the agency's ability to protect consumers from unfair or deceptive financial practices.
The US State Department has released its annual human rights report, which criticizes several countries for their human rights records. The report highlights concerns in countries such as China, Russia, and Turkey, among others, regarding issues like censorship, torture, and restrictions on freedom of speech. The report is a requirement under US law to be submitted to Congress annually.
President Donald Trump has threatened to scrutinize the tax-exempt status of organizations and colleges he disagrees with, including Harvard University, which he called "a disgrace" after the university refused to comply with administration demands. The IRS has received a request from the Treasury Department to revoke Harvard's tax-exempt status, which could result in significant tax bills for the school. Trump's comments have been condemned by advocacy groups, who argue that his actions threaten the charitable status of organizations and undermine freedom of speech.
Under President Trump's (Tru) proposed executive order, thousands of federal employees could be terminated without going through the usual merit-based firing process. The order aims to expedite the removal of "dissatisfied" or "uncooperative" employees, but critics argue it could lead to unfair treatment and potential constitutional issues. The proposal has sparked concerns about worker rights and the separation of powers.
The US Department of Justice has sent intimidating letters to medical journals, including CHEST, suggesting they are "partisan" and spreading misinformation. The letters, signed by the interim US Attorney for the District of Columbia, ask the journals to clarify their editorial standards and how they handle competing viewpoints. This move is seen as part of a broader pattern of intimidation and harassment by President Trump's administration against perceived enemies, including journalists, scientists, and advocacy groups.
A US airstrike on Yemen's Ras Isa oil port killed over 70 people and wounded many others, marking a major escalation in President Donald Trump's campaign against the Houthi rebels. The attack, which targeted a vital civilian facility, was the deadliest known strike yet in the month-old campaign, and analysts say it could seriously affect daily life in areas controlled by the Houthis. The US is targeting the Houthis due to their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and on Israel, with the US accusing a Chinese company of aiding Houthi attacks.
At Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene's town hall in Acworth, Georgia, police forcibly removed several protesters who were heckling her, using stun guns on two individuals. Three people, including the two who were subdued with stun guns, were arrested for disrupting the event. Greene defended the use of force, stating that protesters had been given a designated area outside and that they were out of line for disrupting the event.
A lawsuit has been filed against Costa Rica, alleging that the country violated the rights of 81 migrant children who were deported from the US by detaining them for nearly two months in conditions "that could cause irreparable harm." The lawsuit claims that Costa Rica's treatment of the migrants, including lack of access to schooling and pediatricians, is a breach of international law. The case was filed with the UN committee that monitors the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has expressed interest in assigning team members to work at all institutes and agencies that receive federal funds, according to a meeting with leaders of the Vera Institute of Justice. DOGE representatives revealed plans to potentially attach its team members to more organizations and institutes that receive government funding, highlighting its aggressiveness as it attempts to reshape the federal government. The Vera Institute, which advocates for lower incarceration rates, has received $5 million in federal grants that were recently revoked by the Justice Department, sparking concerns about DOGE's intentions.
Elon Musk's SpaceX has emerged as a frontrunner to build part of President Donald Trump's "Golden Dome" missile defense shield, partnering with software maker Palantir and drone builder Anduril. The proposed system would involve a constellation of 400 to over 1,000 satellites to detect and track missiles, with SpaceX estimating the preliminary engineering work could cost between $6 billion and $10 billion. The Pentagon has received bids from over 180 companies, including defense startups, and is expected to make a decision in the coming months on which company will be awarded the contract.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's top adviser, Dan Caldwell, has been placed on administrative leave after being identified during an investigation into leaks at the Department of Defense. The decision comes as part of President Donald Trump's administration's efforts to aggressively pursue leaks, which have led to firings of several senior Pentagon officials since Hegseth took over in January. Caldwell was a key adviser to Hegseth and had drawn attention for his past views on defense priorities, including advocating for US retrenchment from Europe.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is planning to end its routine food safety inspections and outsource this oversight work to state and local authorities, freeing up resources for higher-priority and foreign inspections. While some lower-risk inspections will be handled by states, others, such as critical foods like infant formula, will remain at the FDA. The plan has not been finalized and may require congressional action to fully fund, with proponents arguing it could improve food safety while reducing costs.
The Trump administration's new tactics in Upstate New York have led to aggressive border patrols, with Hispanic immigrants being stopped and detained for minor traffic violations or no reason at all. The "catch and release" policy has been replaced by a mission to prosecute and deport every person who crosses the border illegally, often using racial profiling and intimidation tactics. Many of those arrested are first-time violators who have built lives in the US, contributing to the economy and culture, but face deportation without defense or due process.
The Trump administration has proposed cutting roughly a third of the federal health budget, eliminating dozens of programs and consolidating health agencies into a new entity called the Administration for a Healthy America. The plan would slash funding to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by over 40% and eliminate several global health centers and domestic HIV/AIDS prevention programs. The proposal is part of the administration's broader efforts to reduce federal spending, which could provide a blueprint for Republicans looking to slash federal spending.
The White House has stated that a man mistakenly deported to El Salvador, Kilmar Ábrego García, will "never live" in the US again due to his alleged ties to the MS-13 gang. A judge has ordered President Donald Trump's administration to secure García's return to the US, but El Salvador's president Nayib Bukele has denied having the power to do so. The deportation case has sparked an escalating showdown between the president and the judiciary on immigration, with some lawmakers calling for García's release despite his alleged domestic violence against his wife.
Internal documents obtained by 404 Media reveal that Palantir, a surveillance giant, has been working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to help find the physical location of people marked for deportation. The leaked materials show that Palantir's role includes producing leads for law enforcement to find people to deport and tracking logistics related to Trump's mass deportation effort. Critics argue that this collaboration undermines privacy and civil liberties, as it enables ICE to prioritize enforcement actions based on existing law enforcement datasets.
Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen met with El Salvador's Vice President to push for the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran citizen deported to El Salvador by the Trump administration despite an immigration court order. The US Supreme Court has called on the administration to facilitate his return, but Trump officials claim he is a gang member and should not be returned. Van Hollen criticized the Trump administration's actions, saying they are "lying about Abrego Garcia" and that the government should let him go due to lack of evidence.
Mortgage rates have surged to their highest level in two months, reaching 6.83% for a standard 30-year fixed mortgage, due to President Trump's ongoing trade war with China and its impact on the stock market. The increase in mortgage rates follows a sell-off in US bonds last week, which was triggered by the benchmark 10-year Treasury yield spiking as high as 4.5%. Despite this, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate remains below the 7% level it reached last year, indicating that the spring homebuying season is still off to a strong start.
John Ullyot, the former top Pentagon spokesperson, has announced his resignation effective at the end of this week. His departure comes amid a tumultuous week for the Pentagon, which has been dealing with an investigation into potential leaks and a controversy over sensitive information posted by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on a Signal chat. Ullyot's tenure as press secretary was marked by controversy, including a purge of diversity content from military websites and a memo that took away media outlets' workspaces.
The US-China trade war has led to a significant decline in bookings for freight ships out of China, with 80 blank sailings recorded by freight company HLS Group. This decrease in demand will have a substantial impact on the economy and supply chain, including ports and logistics companies, as it results in a decline of between 640,000-800,000 containers. The World Trade Organization has warned that the outlook for global trade has "deteriorated sharply" due to President Trump's tariffs plan, leading to increased uncertainty and potential price drops in the ocean freight business.
President Trump ordered the cancellation of a planned top-secret Pentagon briefing for Elon Musk on China, which was originally scheduled to take place after reports of the meeting sparked controversy. The briefing's cancellation comes as part of an investigation into who leaked word of the plan, with two top Pentagon officials suspended and others put on leave. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between Trump and Musk over conflicts of interest and Trump's handling of sensitive information.
A 20-year-old U.S. citizen, Juan Carlos Lopez-Gomez, was held in the Leon County Jail for 48 hours after being charged with illegally entering Florida as an "unauthorized alien" under the state's new anti-immigration law. Despite his mother presenting his birth certificate and Social Security card to prove his citizenship, a judge ruled that she had no jurisdiction over his release due to ICE's request. The case has raised concerns about racial profiling against U.S. citizens and the validity of the arrest and detention.
The Trump administration's budget proposal would eliminate the scientific research division at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), one of the world's premier Earth sciences research centers, with a proposed $170 million reduction from last year's $485 million. The plan would also cut funding for various programs, including climate-related initiatives, education, grants, and research, and relocate some programs to other departments. NOAA officials have expressed concerns that the proposal would "eviscerate" weather forecasting capabilities and undermine scientific research.
Elon Musk's Starlink satellite network has been discovered on the rooftop of the General Services Administration (GSA) headquarters, sparking concerns about potential data security breaches and unauthorized use. The GSA, led by acting administrator Stephen Ehikian, who has ties to Musk, is undergoing a cost-cutting initiative that has raised eyebrows among experts, who warn that some cuts may be "reckless." The agency's efforts to slash billions of dollars in federal spending have been criticized for jeopardizing its mission to improve government efficiency and potentially compromising the integrity of government contracts.
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele plans to double the capacity of the Terrorism Confinement Center, a maximum-security prison that currently holds around 15,000 people, including hundreds of alleged gang members deported from the US. The expansion would create space for up to 80,000 inmates and is part of a deal with the US government, which pays $6 million annually to incarcerate deportees at the facility. Bukele aims to focus on detaining alleged criminals rather than serving as a destination for third-country nationals.
The US government has extended support for the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database, which catalogues cyber weaknesses, by 11 months after funding was set to expire. The decision comes as a relief to the cybersecurity community, which had expressed alarm over the potential disruption to critical services. The CVE database is used by IT administrators to flag and triage daily bugs and hacks, and its continued support is seen as crucial in fighting cyber threats.
President Trump has fired two Democratic board members from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), raising concerns about the Federal Reserve's independence and sparking fears that the Fed's autonomy may be under threat. The move comes after similar dismissals at other agencies, including the FTC, which also lost its last Democrat in March 2025. The firings have sparked warnings that strict partisan financial regulation could lead to a more MAGA approach to antitrust, potentially undermining the stability of financial markets.
Two US Marines were killed in a vehicle rollover in New Mexico on Tuesday, marking the first military fatalities associated with President Donald Trump's expanded border mission. The incident occurred during a reconnaissance mission by US troops deployed to the southern border as part of Trump's efforts to seal the border and improve understanding of the region. The identities of the deceased service members have not been released until their families are notified.
The Trump administration has ended its regular reporting slot for three independent newswires, including The Associated Press, Bloomberg News, and Reuters, in an effort to exert more control over the press corps that covers it. The move comes as part of a broader effort by the White House to weaken branches of the American independent press, with President Trump's allies filing lawsuits against ABC and CBS and threatening to rescind broadcast licenses for major networks. The decision has been met with criticism from journalists and news organizations, who argue that it threatens the fundamental freedom of the press in a democracy.
China has suspended exports of critical rare earth minerals and magnets, essential for the production of cars, semiconductors, and aerospace industries, in retaliation for President Trump's sharp increase in tariffs. The move threatens to disrupt global supply chains and could have significant effects on US companies that rely on these materials, including American military contractors. China produces 90% of the world's rare earth magnets, which are used in a range of applications, from electric cars to spacecraft.
The Pentagon's Defense Digital Service (DDS), a decade-old program aimed at injecting Silicon Valley-style innovation into the department, is resigning en masse due to pressure from Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency. Nearly all staff members are leaving by May 1, effectively shutting down the program after its end in April. The resignations come amid allegations that DOGE's efforts have been damaging and unproductive, sidelining employees who had initially expected to be part of AI-driven modernization efforts.
The US dollar has been experiencing a significant decline in value, plummeting from 0.97 euros per dollar under Trump's presidency to 0.88 euros today, due to investors selling large amounts of US bonds and other assets. This unusual trend, known as "capital flight," is causing concern as it weakens demand for the dollar and leads to higher interest rates on US Treasury bonds. The consequences of this trend could be dire for the US economy, with some experts warning that the world is treating America like a developing country.
The Trump administration has announced a freeze on $2.2 billion in federal grants and $60 million in contracts to Harvard University after the school rejected demands for policy changes, including eliminating diversity programs and merit-based hiring practices. Harvard President Alan M. Garber stated that the university will not surrender its independence or constitutional rights, sparking a lawsuit against the administration from faculty members. The move marks the first time an elite university has rebuked the White House over these demands, which are aimed at combating antisemitism on college campuses.
The Trump administration has been sued for taking down a public spending tracker website, which was required by law to provide transparency on how federal funding is disbursed to agencies. The lawsuit, filed by nonprofit Protect Democracy Project, alleges that the administration's move violates federal law and allows for abuses of power without public oversight. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) had cited concerns about sensitive information being disclosed publicly, but the Government Accountability Office has disputed this claim, stating that apportionment data is legally binding and should be made public.
The Trump administration has proposed cutting the State Department's budget by nearly half, with significant reductions in humanitarian assistance, global health funding, and support for international organizations. The proposal would leave a total budget of $28.4 billion for all activities carried out by the State Department and USAID, a decline of $27 billion from funding levels approved by Congress for 2025. Critics warn that such drastic cuts could have severe consequences for US foreign policy and global relations, particularly with regards to international organizations like NATO and the United Nations.
US Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed her concerns about the turmoil in the federal government, citing the impact of tariffs, executive orders, and cuts to services under the Trump administration. She warned that sweeping cuts to Medicaid could be "devastating" for Alaska's residents, particularly those relying on social safety net programs. Murkowski also emphasized the need for Alaskans to speak out against proposed changes, as she believes the current state of affairs is putting America in a "very dangerous place."
China has suspended exports of critical rare earth minerals and magnets, which are essential for the production of cars, semiconductors, and aerospace industries. The move is part of China's retaliation against President Trump's sharp increase in tariffs, and it could disrupt global supply chains, particularly affecting American companies that rely on these materials. The export restrictions have already begun to take effect, with Chinese customs officials blocking shipments to the US and other countries, including Japan and Germany.
The European Commission has issued burner phones and basic laptops to some US-bound staff to avoid espionage, a measure traditionally used on trips to China. The guidance reflects deteriorating relations between the EU and the US since Donald Trump's return as president, with officials expressing concerns about potential security risks. The move is part of a broader rearmament effort in Europe amid tensions over trade, technology regulation, and security.
Rumeysa Ozturk, a PhD student at Tufts University, was detained by immigration enforcement officers on March 25 and had her visa revoked by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, citing alleged support for Hamas. However, an internal memo from the State Department found no evidence to support these claims, raising doubts about the Trump administration's justification for Ozturk's deportation. The revocation is part of a broader crackdown on international students and scholars by the Trump administration, sparking widespread debate about freedom of speech and suppression of dissent.
The US housing market is struggling due to financial uncertainty, with panicked buyers pulling out of deals amid concerns about tariffs and recession. Many homebuyers are waiting for a market crash similar to the one in 2008 to buy homes at discounted prices, while others are worried about the impact on their retirement savings. The median monthly mortgage payment has reached an all-time high of $2,813 across the US, with experts predicting that some cities, including Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona, are at risk of experiencing a housing market crash in 2025.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele has stated that he will not return mistakenly deported man Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the US, citing concerns about releasing "terrorists" into the country. The Trump administration had previously defended the deportation, but Justice Department officials have acknowledged an administrative error and the Supreme Court has directed them to facilitate Garcia's return. The case highlights a complex web of immigration policies and court rulings that have led to Garcia being held in El Salvador despite having no criminal record in either country.
Target has suffered its 10th consecutive week of declining foot traffic, with a 7.9% year-over-year drop in sales, since announcing the cancellation of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program in January. In contrast, Costco has seen its foot-traffic gains streak extend to 15 weeks, despite defying pressure from the Trump administration to increase its DEI efforts. Target's stock price has dropped to a four-year low, while Costco's stock has hit a new high, reflecting the differing fortunes of the two retailers.
The Trump administration has canceled a 2023 environmental justice settlement agreement with Alabama, which aimed to address the health risks associated with raw sewage in Lowndes County. The agreement required Alabama to install septic systems and improve public health infrastructure, but its termination will leave residents without access to proper sanitation. Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) criticized the move as a "blatant disregard for the health of my constituents," highlighting systemic problems with wastewater management across Alabama.
President Donald Trump has threatened CBS with "substantial punishment" over its latest 60 Minutes broadcast, which featured an interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and criticized his administration's actions in the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump claims that CBS News is engaging in "deceitful editing" and has a history of fraudulent reporting, including altering Kamala Harris' answers during her 60 Minutes interview. The president has called for CBS to lose its license and has urged the Federal Communications Commission to take action against the network.
Pete Marocco, a Trump administration official who oversaw the dismantling of USAID, has left the State Department, according to a US official. The move comes as part of President Donald Trump's administration's efforts to slash funding and dismiss contractors across the federal bureaucracy, which has thrown humanitarian efforts into turmoil. Marocco's departure may be related to his role in exposing "egregious abuses" of taxpayer dollars during his tenure at USAID.
The White House plans to submit a formal request to Congress to rescind $9.3 billion in funding for foreign aid initiatives, public broadcasting, and other programs, targeting the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development. The request comes as Republican lawmakers have been pushing for congressional approval of spending cuts, with some GOP senators objecting to cutting USAID programs that support US farmers' exports. To approve the rescissions request, both the House and Senate would need to vote at a simple-majority threshold.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency has significantly reduced its budget-cutting goals, from $1 trillion to $150 billion, and is now facing criticism for inflating its progress with errors and speculative figures. The group's online ledger, known as the "Wall of Receipts," contains numerous omissions and flaws, including inflated savings claims and assumptions about future spending that may not materialize. Critics argue that the group's methods are misleading and that its true impact on government spending is likely to be less than claimed.
US President Donald Trump's plan to bring back labor-intensive manufacturing jobs through tariffs may not be feasible, as few Americans want to work in factories, and capital is scarce. Research suggests that US income inequality has risen since decades of progress in manufacturing, and that focusing on bringing back factory jobs obscures the economy-wide benefits of globalization. Implementing tariffs could lead to higher costs for consumers, reduced economic growth, and a decline in overall prosperity.
The 30-year Treasury yield briefly crossed 5% on April 11, 2025, marking a significant shift in market dynamics and prompting concerns about the impact on household finances, government debt, and the broader economy. As yields rise towards 5%, households face increased pressure to manage their debt, with mortgage rates potentially exceeding 7%, credit card APRs approaching 24%, and auto loan rates breaching 9%. The consequences of this threshold being crossed are far-reaching, affecting not only individual finances but also government debt, foreign investment, and the overall economy.
The rise of end times fascism, led by figures such as Donald Trump, Peter Thiel, and Elon Musk, poses a significant threat to liberal democracy and the planet. This ideology, characterized by a focus on survivalism, supremacy, and the rejection of regulation, has become increasingly influential among far-right groups in the US and globally. To combat this movement, a new narrative is needed that prioritizes interdependence, belonging, and the sanctity of the Earth, rather than separation and supremacy.
The Trump administration has argued that it has no duty to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an illegally deported Maryland man, to the US, citing a Supreme Court ruling that only requires officials to admit him into the country if he makes it back from El Salvador's high-security prison. The administration claims that the court's order does not obligate them to engage with the Salvadoran government or conduct diplomatic efforts to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return. A federal judge has scheduled a hearing for Tuesday to assess the administration's steps in arranging for Abrego Garcia's return, which may up the stakes of the case.
President Trump's nominee for top health post, Brian Christine, has called for "corrective care" instead of transitioning for transgender youth and has repeated conspiracy theories about the coronavirus pandemic. A review of his podcast and radio appearances found that Christine often challenged mainstream medical views on transgender care and the pandemic, sometimes bordering on conspiratorial language. If confirmed by the Senate, Christine would oversee a broad portfolio of public health programs, including the surgeon general's work, despite having no government experience.
Eight people, including five children, died in South Sudan after walking three hours in 40°C heat to seek cholera treatment when US aid cuts forced local health services to close in Jonglei State, where Save the Children had previously supported 27 health facilities that were forced to shut down or scale back operations.
China has raised its duties on US goods to 125%, in response to President Trump's decision to impose higher tariffs on Chinese imports. The move is seen as a tit-for-tat retaliation against the US, which has effectively raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 145%. China's Finance Ministry dismissed the US tariff strategy as "a joke" and warned that further increases would have no economic significance, while Beijing continues to explore other forms of retaliation.
Gen. Dan "Razin" Caine was confirmed by the Senate in an early Friday morning vote of 60-25 to become chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, with 15 Democrats supporting his confirmation, following his nomination by President Trump after the dismissal of his predecessor Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr. in February.
The Education Department's Office of Inspector General plans to conduct a "series of reviews" into the mass layoffs that cut nearly half of the agency's workforce. The investigation comes after Democratic senators requested a probe into the Trump administration's actions, with plans to identify the effects of staffing cuts and provide suggestions for maintaining productive operations despite the workforce changes. The cuts included approximately 1,300 career employees receiving termination notices, following about 600 earlier voluntary resignations and retirements, severely impacting critical departments that enforce anti-discrimination laws and manage student aid programs.
A federal judge has ruled to halt the Trump administration's plans to end a humanitarian parole program that allowed people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to temporarily live in the United States. The ruling comes after immigration advocates appeared in federal court in Boston on April 10, 2025, seeking to stop the termination of a program that had permitted hundreds of thousands from these four countries to remain in the US.
Public officials from 16 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Thursday seeking to restore pandemic relief aid for schools after the Education Department abruptly halted hundreds of millions in promised funding. The lawsuit claims the administration's actions violate federal law by reversing a prior decision allowing states to access the money through March 2026, with states like New York losing access to $134 million that supported crucial school services including building repairs, programs for homeless students, and tutoring for students who fell behind.
President Trump's memorandum directs federal agencies to repeal regulations deemed unlawful under ten recent Supreme Court decisions, implementing Executive Order 14219 from February 2025. The memorandum instructs agencies to expedite this process by using the Administrative Procedure Act's "good cause" exception to bypass notice-and-comment rulemaking procedures when repealing regulations that conflict with recent landmark Supreme Court rulings.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is auditing Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has been granted access to sensitive data at multiple federal agencies, including the Departments of Labor, Education, and Homeland Security. The audit aims to examine DOGE's handling of data and adherence to privacy and data protection laws, following concerns raised by Democratic officials about potential misuse of agency systems and data. The GAO review is expected to be completed by the end of spring and will yield a report that will be made public, providing much-needed accountability measures for DOGE's activities.
The Department of Homeland Security has enlisted the FBI and other law enforcement agencies to conduct welfare checks on unaccompanied migrant children who came to the United States without parents, according to a Washington Post report, as part of a broader Trump administration effort to track down hundreds of thousands of migrant children who entered the country without their parents to expand its mass deportation campaign.
The House passed the "No Rogue Rulings Act" in a 219-213 vote, which would restrict district court judges from issuing nationwide injunctions that block federal policies. Introduced by Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), the bill would limit judges to providing relief only to parties directly involved in lawsuits, significantly diminishing courts' ability to block President Trump's policies across the country.
The Social Security Administration has entered over 6,000 mostly Latino immigrants into the "Death Master File" database, rendering them effectively dead in government systems despite being alive, which cancels their Social Security numbers and eliminates their ability to work legally or receive benefits in the United States, as part of a Trump administration effort to pressure undocumented immigrants to "self-deport."
Space Force Col. Susan Meyers, commander of Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, was fired after sending an email to base personnel stating that "the concerns of the U.S. administration discussed by Vice President Vance on Friday are not reflective of Pituffik Space Base" following Vance's controversial visit where he criticized Denmark's oversight of Greenland.
The Trump administration has significantly restricted access to the President's Daily Brief (PDB), with Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard now controlling who receives the highly classified intelligence report, a move that officials say was planned from the earliest days of Trump's second term to prevent leaks that contributed to the president's distrust of the intelligence community.
Marvin Richardson, the deputy director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), was told by the Trump administration to retire or be fired this week; Richardson, a 35-year ATF veteran who had been serving as the agency's de facto head during the Trump administration, resigned under pressure the same week that Kash Patel was replaced as acting ATF director by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll.
President Donald Trump announced deals with five more law firms pledging to provide a combined $600 million in legal services for causes he supports, as some firms strike deals to avoid punishment while others like Susman Godfrey, which represented Dominion Voting Systems in defamation cases related to Trump's false claims about the 2020 election, have filed lawsuits challenging Trump's executive orders as unconstitutional.
Two young German travelers, Charlotte Pohl, 19, and Maria Lepere, 18, were detained in Honolulu after arriving with flexible travel plans. They had ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) but were accused of potential illegal work intentions, leading to a strip search, jail time, and deportation. The incident highlights the risks international visitors face at US borders due to stricter documentation requirements. Hawaii's reputation as a dream destination may be impacted by such incidents, and travelers are advised to prepare thoroughly before arrival.
The Air Force has reversed its February 2025 ban on using personal pronouns in professional communications after officials discovered it violated a provision in the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, which prohibits any Pentagon policy "regarding identification of gender or personal pronouns in official correspondence"
A federal judge has ruled that the White House cannot bar The Associated Press (AP) from covering presidential events, affirming the news organization's First Amendment right to free speech. The decision comes after the AP sued the White House over its exclusion from Oval Office and Air Force One coverage, with the government citing disagreement with the AP's terminology on the Gulf of Mexico. The ruling does not guarantee permanent access to these events but prohibits viewpoint discrimination against journalists.
San Diego County's wastewater testing system, which provided detailed information on viral subtypes circulating in the community, has been shut down due to federal funding cuts. The program, known as SEARCH, was terminated after researchers received word that their $400,000 annual grant would cease, forcing them to stop operating despite having already purchased reagents for future analysis. Researchers plan to continue helping the county set up a new wastewater testing system, but acknowledge that without grant funds, their capabilities will be limited.
The European Union has paused its retaliatory tariffs against the US, citing a desire to give negotiations a chance. The decision comes as global markets have rebounded in response to President Donald Trump's announcement that he would pause and lower tariffs on most nations. The EU will delay adopting new countermeasures for 90 days, with all options remaining on the table.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has announced a policy of not responding to journalists who include pronouns in their email signatures, stating "Any reporter who chooses to put their preferred pronouns in their bio clearly does not care about biological reality or truth and therefore cannot be trusted to write an honest story." The policy aligns with the Trump administration's broader stance on gender identity issues, including a January executive order declaring the United States would only recognize two biological sexes, and appears to apply to correspondence with various White House officials.
The Trump administration has moved to restore some foreign aid programs that were recently terminated, including six US-funded emergency food assistance programs in Lebanon, Syria, Somalia, Jordan, Iraq, and Ecuador. The decision comes after pressure from within the administration and Congress, following criticism that the initial cuts could amount to a "death sentence" for millions of people facing extreme hunger and starvation. The restoration of these aid programs is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reverse some of its previous cuts to foreign aid, which have been widely criticized as chaotic and confusing.
The acting commissioner of the IRS, Melanie Krause, is resigning over a deal to share immigrants' tax data with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the purpose of identifying and deporting people illegally in the US. The agreement, signed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, allows ICE to submit names and addresses of undocumented immigrants to the IRS for cross-verification against tax records. Advocates argue that the deal violates privacy laws and could discourage tax compliance among immigrant communities.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche issued a memo on April 9 barring Justice Department attorneys from traveling to or speaking at American Bar Association events, stating that department employees may not participate in ABA events on official time while accusing the organization of engaging in "activist causes" contrary to the department's mission. This action comes amid broader Trump administration criticism of the ABA, with American Bar Association President William R. Bay responding that the administration is attempting to "tip the scales of justice" through a pattern of targeting judges and lawyers who make decisions it disagrees with.
Kari Lake, who had been serving as senior adviser to the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), the parent agency of Voice of America, is set to be detailed to the State Department, a move aimed at helping her coordinate efforts to scale back the agency and its affiliated outlets after President Trump and Elon Musk's DOGE Service initiated actions to dismantle VOA. Federal judges have temporarily halted the administration's efforts to shutter the news outlets after VOA journalists filed lawsuits challenging Trump's executive order that had placed about 3,500 journalists and media workers on indefinite leave, arguing that the president violated the First Amendment and exceeded his authority since Congress established the agency by law.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man who was deported to El Salvador in error, expects to be returned to the US after his lawyer, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, said he has every expectation that the Supreme Court will rule in their favor. The government claims it cannot return Abrego Garcia due to concerns about foreign diplomacy and the potential for failure in international negotiations, but Sandoval-Moshenberg disputes this, citing evidence that suggests a successful return is possible. A temporary administrative stay was issued by the Supreme Court on Monday, delaying the midnight deadline for Abrego Garcia's return.
The US government has informed approximately 900,000 migrants who entered the country during the Biden administration using the CBP One app to leave "immediately" due to revoked parole status. The decision comes as part of President Trump's efforts to increase deportations and secure the border, with those who remain subject to prosecution and potential law enforcement actions. The cancellations do not apply to migrants in specific two-year parole programs for Ukrainians and Afghans, but rather affect those who entered without authorization or failed to sign up for the registration system.
Millions of Social Security beneficiaries will not receive checks in September due to a calendar quirk, but this disruption has no impact on their monthly benefits. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program's payment schedule was altered because September 1 fell on a Sunday, causing recipients to receive early payments on August 30. Payments for the remainder of the year will continue as normal, with some recipients receiving checks on different dates depending on their birth month.
The Social Security Administration's new policy requiring applicants to seek services online or travel in-person to a local field office will create significant hurdles for millions of seniors, particularly those living in rural areas. The change, which takes effect on April 14, will require phone applications to undergo anti-fraud checks and may flag up to 4.5 million claims annually, potentially delaying benefits for eligible individuals. Advocates argue that the policy disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including those with disabilities or limited internet access, who may struggle to navigate the new system.
The US military does not have authority to conduct drone strikes on drug cartels in Mexico, despite President Donald Trump's designation of these groups as foreign terrorist organizations. A Pentagon official stated that such actions would require expanded congressional authority, and instead, the military can provide options and support for law enforcement efforts. The US has increased manned surveillance flights and intelligence sharing with Mexico to combat the flow of fentanyl and other illicit substances into the country.
A group of 77 House Democrats has launched a campaign to force Elon Musk out of the Trump administration by May 30, citing a legal requirement that special government employees (Musk's designation as DOGE leader) cannot serve past 130 days, and demanding in a letter to President Trump that Musk "resign and surrender all decision making authority" by that date.
The US has announced that 104% duties on imports from China will take effect on Wednesday, sparking a fourth consecutive day of declines in US stocks, with the S&P 500 closing below 5,000 for the first time in almost a year. The tariffs are part of a sweeping trade policy aimed at boosting coal production and have raised fears of recession and upended global trading orders. Global markets, including Japan's Nikkei, are bracing for falls ahead of the tariffs' implementation, with China warning of a "war of attrition" in response to the US move.
The US Supreme Court blocked an order requiring the Trump administration to reinstate approximately 16,000 federal employees who were terminated in mass firings aimed at downsizing the federal government. The court's decision was part of a larger trend of siding with the Republican administration in its fight against federal judges' orders, but it does not affect other ongoing lawsuits related to the firings. At least 24,000 probationary employees have been terminated since Trump took office, according to the coalition of organizations and labor unions that sued.
Global market turmoil intensified on Wednesday as US President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs took effect, causing government bonds and stocks to sell off. The 10-year yield for US Treasuries jumped to 4.51% before easing to 4.36%, while oil prices fell to a four-year low of $60.13 per barrel amid growing fears of a global economic slowdown. The impact of the tariffs was felt across various markets, including Asian equities, which sold off, and European luxury companies, which slipped further on concerns that a global recession triggered by Trump's tariffs would crimp demand.
The Trump administration has revoked hundreds of international student visas, forcing affected students to leave the US within days, with some cancellations linked to minor infractions or pro-Palestinian protests. The move has sent shockwaves through the collegiate community and raised concerns about free speech and national security. Universities are scrambling to assist affected students, while immigration experts and advocacy groups have challenged the visa cancellations, citing a lack of transparency and due process.
President Donald Trump has signed executive orders aimed at boosting the struggling coal industry, including allowing older coal-fired power plants to continue producing electricity and directing federal agencies to identify coal resources on federal lands. The moves are seen as a reversal of environmental regulations imposed by the Biden administration, which had targeted closures of heavily polluting coal power plants. Critics argue that Trump's actions will only temporarily prop up an industry that is being replaced by cleaner forms of energy, while supporters hail them as a necessary step to preserve American energy dominance.
President Trump signed executive orders on April 9 revoking security clearances for former CISA director Christopher Krebs and former DHS official Miles Taylor, ordering Department of Justice investigations into both officials, and instructing agencies to suspend clearances for individuals at entities associated with Krebs, including his employer SentinelOne. On the same day, Trump signed another executive order targeting law firm Susman Godfrey, which represented Dominion Voting Systems in its defamation case against Fox News that resulted in a $787.5 million settlement, with Trump's directive against Krebs specifically citing that he "falsely and baselessly denied that the 2020 election was rigged and stolen."
The Trump administration has tripled tariffs on packages from China and other countries valued under $800, effectively ending the "de minimis" exemption that allowed foreign online retailers like Shein and Temu to sell cheap items to American consumers. This move aims to collect more tariff revenue, but critics argue it will harm US businesses, such as Forever 21, which has recently liquidated its US stores due to increased competition from these retailers. The new tariffs will take effect on May 2, with duties ranging from 90% of the item's value or $75 per item.
The Trump administration has submitted a legal brief to the US Supreme Court arguing that it has the authority to deport anyone, regardless of citizenship or immigration status, without due process and that federal courts have no power to order their return. The administration claims that once an individual is deported to another country, the US government loses its responsibility to bring them back, even if they were removed in error. If the Supreme Court grants this argument, it would effectively allow the creation of a "black site" where people can be indefinitely detained and subjected to torture and death without any judicial oversight or accountability.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer faced skepticism from senators on Tuesday over President Trump's global tariffs, which have caused market chaos and raised concerns about recession. Despite claims that the tariffs are getting results, lawmakers questioned the administration's plan and the lack of clear communication about their goals and duration. Several senators, including some Republicans, called for Congress to reassert its authority over trade and introduced legislation to require presidential justification for new tariffs.
The US government's recent detentions and visa revocations of international university students for expressing their views on sensitive topics, such as Gaza and Palestine, have raised concerns among free speech advocates that immigration status is being used to censor viewpoints. The use of a rarely invoked immigration act allows the Secretary of State to revoke visas if deemed a threat to US foreign policy, sparking fears that this could lead to arbitrary targeting of individuals based on their opinions. Critics argue that this approach undermines the First Amendment and threatens the freedom of speech for all Americans, regardless of their immigration status.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the US will "take back" the Panama Canal from Chinese influence during his visit to Panama City, vowing to deepen security cooperation with Panamanian forces and prevent China from using commercial relationships for espionage. The move comes amid reports that the Trump administration has requested options from the US military to ensure access to the canal, which was built by the US over a century ago and handed over to Panama in 1999. Hegseth's visit aims to reassure Panamanians who have been unsettled by Trump's threats to reclaim the canal, but experts say the stakes are high given China's expansive commercial presence in Panama.
Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) has announced he will block President Trump's nomination of Sean Plankey to lead the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) until the agency releases a 2022 report on telecommunications insecurity. Wyden claims CISA is engaging in a "multi-year cover up of phone companies' negligent cybersecurity" that contributed to the Salt Typhoon hack, which allowed Chinese spies to access communications of senior American officials including reportedly Vice President JD Vance and President Trump.
At least a dozen House Republicans are considering co-sponsoring Rep. Don Bacon's bill to restrict President Trump's ability to impose tariffs unilaterally, which would give Congress the power to block or approve tariffs after 60 days. The move marks a significant break with Trump, who has threatened to veto the bill if it passes Congress. Several Senate Republicans have also co-sponsored an identical bill, and some House Republicans are citing Trump's veto threat as a reason not to support the measure.
The U.S. Department of Justice has terminated approximately $1.5 million in federal grant funding to the Maine Department of Corrections, with Attorney General Pam Bondi stating on Fox News that the cuts were due to a transgender woman being housed in a women's prison. The terminated grants supported substance use disorder treatment, programs for incarcerated parents and their children, and probation innovations, though the formal notice from the DOJ only stated the programs "no longer effectuate the program goals or agency priorities" without mentioning transgender policies.
Criticism from influential figures such as Jamie Dimon and Ben Shapiro is emerging about President Donald Trump's trade war policies, with some warning that the tariffs could lead to "inflationary outcomes" and even a recession. The criticism marks a departure from the general support for Trump's policies among his allies in corporate America and Republican lawmakers, suggesting that the economic turmoil caused by the trade war may leave lasting political scars for the president. Despite this, many of Trump's supporters remain loyal, with some warning that they will only reevaluate their support if the tariffs start to hurt individuals.
The Justice Department has agreed that Stacy Hager, one of January 6 defendants, should be repaid $1,000 in funds he sent to Congress after his conviction was erased as part of President Trump's clemency. The decision comes after Hager argued that he should receive reimbursement now that his conviction has been vacated. This move is seen as a potential precedent for other January 6 defendants who may also be eligible for restitution, following the lead of U.S. Attorney Ed Martin, who previously advocated for cash reimbursements.
Trump administration officials have reportedly told some U.S. government employees that Elon Musk's DOGE team is using artificial intelligence to monitor federal agency communications for hostility toward President Trump and his agenda, with EPA managers specifically warned about AI surveillance looking for "anti-Trump or anti-Musk language" in workplace communications including Microsoft Teams. Reuters reports that the DOGE team has also "heavily" deployed Musk's Grok AI chatbot as part of their federal government reduction efforts and is using the Signal app for communications, potentially violating federal record-keeping rules.
The Trump administration has moved to restore several foreign aid programs that were recently canceled, including emergency food assistance to countries like Lebanon, Syria, Somalia, Jordan, Iraq, and Ecuador, with USAID Acting Deputy Administrator Jeremy Lewin requesting the reversal of terminations that affected World Food Programme contracts worth over $463 million. This follows reports that the Trump administration had ended life-saving aid programs for more than a dozen countries including Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, and Syria, totaling over $1.3 billion, which the UN World Food Programme warned could be "a death sentence" for millions.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has established a new task force called the Director's Initiatives Group (DIG) charged with restoring transparency and accountability to the Intelligence Community, investigating "weaponization," rooting out politicization, and declassifying information of public interest, though Senator Mark Warner has criticized it as a potential "witch hunt" for intelligence officers deemed disloyal to President Trump.
The IRS and Department of Homeland Security have signed a data-sharing agreement allowing ICE to request taxpayer information on suspected undocumented immigrants for deportation purposes, sparking significant internal controversy with multiple IRS officials refusing to sign the agreement due to legal concerns and the acting IRS commissioner Melanie Krause announcing her resignation. The agreement reportedly aims to help locate up to 7 million suspected undocumented immigrants despite longstanding IRS assurances to undocumented taxpayers that their information would remain confidential, raising concerns that it may discourage tax compliance among immigrants who contribute billions in federal taxes annually.
The Trump administration has revoked legal status for approximately 900,000 migrants who entered the US through the Biden-era CBP One app since January 2023, ordering them to "leave immediately" or face potential deportation. The Department of Homeland Security stated that "Canceling these paroles is a promise kept to the American people to secure our borders and protect national security," while migrants who had been granted two-year work authorization under presidential parole authority are now being notified their status has been terminated.
Medicaid recipients from across the US marched on Capitol Hill to demand protection for the healthcare program and its companion benefits, Snap, which provide crucial support for low-income families. The protesters, who held meetings with lawmakers and staff, emphasized that Medicaid is not just an insurance program but also funds local hospitals and supports vulnerable populations. If cuts are made to Medicaid and Snap, advocates warn it would have devastating consequences for millions of Americans, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
The Justice Department has directed prosecutors to stop pursuing litigation against cryptocurrency fraud and is disbanding its National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team, according to a memo from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche sent on April 8, 2025. The department will now narrow its focus to crimes where digital assets are used to support terrorism, drug cartels, and clear investor fraud, shifting away from what Blanche called the Biden administration's "reckless strategy of regulation by prosecution."
The Sackets Harbor Central School District in northern New York has welcomed back three students and their mother after a community-led effort to free them from immigration detention. The family was arrested by federal agents on March 27 as part of an operation targeting a South African man accused of sharing child pornography, despite not being charged with a crime themselves. The community's support for the family, which includes hundreds of people calling for their release, has been widely praised, with local officials and residents expressing relief and gratitude at the family's return home.
Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) has proposed a bill to restrict the White House's ability to impose tariffs unilaterally, which has garnered support from at least a dozen House Republicans despite President Trump's veto threat. The legislation would cause any tariffs a president institutes to expire after 60 days unless Congress votes to pass a resolution of approval, and would give Congress the ability to pass a resolution of disapproval to eliminate the tariffs at any time.
The U.S. Senate confirmed Elbridge Colby as the undersecretary of defense for policy, the Pentagon's third-highest position, with a vote of 54-45 on April 8, 2025. The confirmation faced opposition from Senator Mitch McConnell, who was the only Republican to vote against Colby, while three Democrats crossed party lines to support him. Colby, who previously served in the Trump administration as deputy assistant secretary of defense for strategy, faced scrutiny during his confirmation process regarding his views on Russia, Iran, and Taiwan.
South Sudan has criticized the U.S. for revoking all visas for its nationals, claiming the decision was based on an isolated incident involving a Congolese national who was mistakenly identified as South Sudanese. The deportation dispute centers on one person who was denied entry at Juba airport, with South Sudanese officials claiming they verified the individual was actually from the Democratic Republic of Congo and provided supporting evidence to American officials. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the visa revocation on Saturday, stating it was due to South Sudan's failure to accept its deported citizens "in a timely manner," with officials saying they would review the decision once South Sudan is "in full cooperation."
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the revocation of all South Sudanese visas and barred new issuances due to what the US claimed was failure to accept deportees, but South Sudan will now admit a deported man who they initially rejected entry, stating he was Congolese and not South Sudanese. The dispute centers on a single deportation case amid rising political tensions in South Sudan, where observers fear the country could descend into another civil war following the 2013-2018 conflict that killed 400,000 people.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that China's escalation in the trade war was a "big mistake" as it plays with a losing hand, given the US's substantial advantage. The US will raise tariffs on China and other nations as part of reciprocal tariffs aimed at bringing trading partners to the negotiating table and creating jobs. Bessent expects large countries with significant trade deficits to come forward quickly to negotiate, potentially leading to good deals for both parties.
The Trump administration has frozen over $1 billion in federal funding for Cornell University and approximately $790 million for Northwestern University while investigating alleged civil rights violations at both schools, with the freeze affecting grants and contracts connected to Agriculture, Education, Defense, and Health and Human Services departments. Cornell officials stated they received more than 75 stop work orders from the Defense Department related to research "profoundly significant to American national defense, cybersecurity, and health" but had not received formal notification confirming the full $1 billion figure, while Northwestern representatives noted they had not received any official notification about the funding freeze.
The Trump administration has notified Maine that it is cutting funding for the state's prison system due to its policy allowing a transgender woman to live in a women's prison. The U.S. Attorney General, Pam Bondi, made the announcement during an appearance on "Fox and Friends," citing the need to protect women in prisons. This move expands the administration's pressure campaign against Maine's policies towards transgender residents, which has also targeted the state's approach to transgender athletes and students.
The Trump administration plans to fine migrants under deportation orders $998 per day for failing to leave the United States and potentially seize their property if they don't pay, according to documents reviewed by Reuters. The policy stems from a 1996 law first enforced during Trump's previous term and could be applied retroactively for up to five years, potentially resulting in fines exceeding $1 million per person. The Department of Homeland Security warned about these fines in a March 31 social media post, and internal emails show discussions about which agency should handle the penalties and property seizures.
China announced retaliatory tariffs of 84% on US goods in response to Trump's 104% levy on Chinese imports, escalating the trade war between the world's two largest economies. As China unveiled its retaliatory measures, Trump urged companies to relocate to the US, writing: "Don't wait, do it now!" The European Union also approved countermeasures against the US tariffs, marking a significant expansion of global trade tensions.
The Trump administration has sent immigrant university scholars, including Mahmoud Khalil, Rumeysa Ozturk, and Badar Khan Suri, to detention centers in Louisiana and Texas, hundreds of miles from their homes, despite lawyers' attempts to stop it. The government claims that sending them south is due to a lack of available beds or "detention space" closer to where they were arrested, but critics argue that this is a pattern of "forum shopping" to have deportation cases heard by more conservative courts. The ACLU and other advocates are concerned about the deplorable conditions in these detention centers and the impact on the detained individuals' ability to fight their deportation cases.
The US has changed the legal status of Syria's mission to the United Nations, downgrading it from a permanent mission of a member state to a mission of a government not recognized by the US. This move affects diplomats accredited to the UN and foreign nationals eligible for visas, with implications for Syria's international representation and diplomatic relations. The decision is seen as a significant shift in US policy towards Syria, potentially limiting engagement with the current transitional authority and paving the way for multinational approaches to the issue of Syria's international representation.
President Donald Trump announced agreements with five law firms that will provide $600 million in pro bono legal services for causes he supports, allowing them to avoid potential punitive executive orders; the firms include Kirkland & Ellis, Allen Overy Shearman Sterling, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, Latham & Watkins, and Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft. The agreements require the firms to disavow "illegal DEI discrimination" and commit to merit-based hiring practices, with Cadwalader agreeing to provide $100 million in services to causes like helping veterans, combating anti-Semitism, and "ensuring fairness in our justice system."
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has redeployed staff to Texas to respond to the deadly measles outbreak, which has driven this year's tally of US measles cases to its highest levels since 2019. The CDC had previously laid off thousands of employees, including those working on the agency's measles response, but is now bringing back some staff at the request of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Measles cases have been linked to unvaccinated individuals, with health experts emphasizing the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of the virus.
The CIA is reviewing its authorities to use lethal force against drug cartels in Mexico and beyond as the Trump administration makes this a major intelligence agency priority, though no direct action has been ordered yet. The review aims to understand legal boundaries and potential risks, particularly concerns about higher collateral damage to American citizens compared to Middle East operations.
The Social Security Administration website experienced a major crash on Monday due to a cyber glitch caused by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has been hacking into the agency from within. The outage prevented elderly people and low-income families from accessing their online accounts, applying for government services, and making or receiving payments. This incident is the latest in a series of problems reported since DOGE began working on the agency, including long wait times on calls and malfunctioning online accounts.
DHS CIO Antoine McCord tonight sent the entire department an email about Signal use. Signal is approved for government devices, McCord wrote, but "do not use Signal to transmit classified information." The email also notes that work communications "must be preserved" and auto-delete must be off.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem sent employees an email titled "Reshaping the DHS Workforce" offering three voluntary exit options: deferred resignation with paid administrative leave, buyouts of up to $25,000, or early retirement with reduced benefits, all with an April 14 deadline for application . The memo did not exempt any DHS agencies from the workforce reduction , potentially affecting FEMA's 20,000 employees as part of Trump's plan to give states greater responsibility in disaster response .
President Trump's tariff policy has been marked by a series of unpredictable moves, including imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico in his second term, with economists warning of an escalating trade war. Trump claims that tariffs will boost US manufacturing, create wealth, and address unfair trading relationships, but experts say these promises are difficult to keep due to the volatility of his policy. The upcoming "Liberation Day" announcement is expected to reveal new reciprocal tariffs on a range of US trading partners.
President Trump announced a series of executive actions on gun control that include expanding background checks for firearm purchases and increasing federal funding for mental health programs. The measures, which represent a shift from his previous stance on gun regulations, have received mixed reactions from both Republican lawmakers and gun control advocates who question the sincerity and effectiveness of the proposals.
US President Donald Trump has defended his tariffs as "medicine" that countries must pay to lift sweeping trade restrictions, prompting further market volatility in Asia and globally. The tariffs, which could lead to higher prices, weaker demand, and potentially a global recession, have already wiped out trillions of dollars in value from share markets worldwide. Trump's top economic advisers are portraying the tariffs as a strategic move to reposition the US in the global trade order, but critics warn of an "economic nuclear winter" unless they are paused or negotiated down.
The Trump administration has revoked visas and ended the legal statuses of dozens of international students at colleges across the US, with at least 147 students affected. The revocations often occurred without prior notice to the students or their institutions, leaving them uncertain about their status and future in the country. Colleges are now offering support to affected students, but some may be reluctant to oppose the administration's orders due to concerns over federal funding cuts.
Former US Secretary of Defense Mark Hegseth and President Trump have announced plans to propose a record $1 trillion Pentagon budget, significantly increasing funding for national defense programs. The proposed increase comes as the Pentagon seeks to modernize its operations while cutting 8% from individual budgets. The exact allocation of funds is unclear, but the proposal would represent a substantial boost to national defense spending, which was already projected to exceed $900 billion in the upcoming budget.
U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Shoshana Chatfield, the U.S. military representative to the NATO Military Committee and one of only a handful of female Navy three-star officers, has been fired as part of what appears to be an expanding national security purge of top officials by the Trump administration. The dismissal follows recent removals of other high-ranking military leaders including General Timothy Haugh of the NSA and Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the Navy's top officer and first woman to become Chief of Naval Operations.
Volkswagen's Audi is holding back cars that arrived in U.S. ports after April 2 because of the newly imposed 25% autos tariff, a spokesperson said on Tuesday, confirming the contents of a memo sent to dealers and reported on by U.S. trade publication Automotive News. The carmaker has around 37,000 vehicles, sufficient for approximately two months of sales, in its U.S. inventory, the spokesperson added, meaning its cars will continue to be available for customers.
China's markets are expected to face a grim start on Monday as investors react to the nation's retaliation against US tariffs, with a gauge of Chinese stocks listed in the US plummeting 8.9% on Friday. The quick response by China has raised concerns about a global recession and further tit-for-tat responses between the world's top two economies. China's government has vowed to take "resolute measures" to defend its economy, including imposing tariffs on all imports from the US and restricting exports of rare earths.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to visit Texas after a second child's death was linked to measles, following a similar case reported by the same Mennonite community in February. The trip comes as Texas has the nation's highest number of reported measles cases, with 481 cases since late January. Kennedy's visit may be seen as a step towards taking ownership of his role at the Department of Health and Human Services.
US President Donald Trump's unilateral 10% tariff on imports from many countries took effect on Saturday, causing significant disruption to global trade norms. The tariffs, which also include higher rates for goods from China and other countries, have sparked concerns about a potential trade war and its impact on the global economy. Countries such as Australia, Britain, and Saudi Arabia face immediate 10% tariff, while exemptions are in place for certain goods like crude oil, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors.
Small businesses across the US are expressing concern about the impact of tariffs on their operations, citing increased costs, reduced competitiveness, and potential losses to customers. Many owners fear that they will be forced to pass on higher costs to consumers or risk going out of business, particularly those with thin profit margins. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has warned that broad and indiscriminate use of tariffs would stifle economic growth at a critical time, emphasizing the need for policymakers to focus on increasing trade opportunities.
It is time for the Transitional Government of South Sudan to stop taking advantage of the United States. Enforcing our nation’s immigration laws is critically important to the national security and public safety of the United States. Every country must accept the return of its citizens in a timely manner when another country, including the United States, seeks to remove them. As South Sudan’s transitional government has failed to fully respect this principle, effective immediately, the United States Department of State is taking actions to revoke all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and prevent further issuance to prevent entry into the United States by South Sudanese passport holders. We will be prepared to review these actions when South Sudan is in full cooperation.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) plans to host a hackathon at the IRS next week to create a single "mega API" for accessing taxpayer data, which could potentially allow unauthorized access to sensitive information. The project has raised concerns among privacy and civil liberties experts, who warn that consolidating personal data into a central repository could threaten individual rights. DOGE's plans have already led to significant changes at the IRS, including the sudden placement of dozens of technologists on administrative leave and the slashing of modernization projects.
The US Department of Justice has placed acting Deputy Director Erez Reuveni on indefinite paid leave after he struggled to answer questions about a Maryland man's deportation in court. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that DOJ lawyers must "zealously advocate" for the administration, and Reuveni's failure to do so led to his removal from the case. The government is seeking to appeal an order to facilitate the return of the deported man by Monday.
In today’s global economy, tariffs play a crucial role in shaping trade dynamics. With shifting policies and evolving trade agreements, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest changes to tariff regulations. This page provides an up-to-date overview of recent tariff changes and their impact on global trade.
Thousands of protesters gathered nationwide in the US on Saturday to participate in "Hands Off" demonstrations against President Donald Trump's immigration policies and the mass firings of federal workers led by Elon Musk. The protests, organized by Democratic activists, aimed to mobilize against what they saw as a crisis of oligarchy and the erosion of democracy. The rallies also coincided with high-profile immigration raids and deportations under the Trump administration, which has been criticized for its handling of these issues.
According to President Trump, “Tariff is the most beautiful word in the dictionary.” Throughout his presidential campaign, Trump promised to use tariffs as a central part of his foreign policy strategy. His America First Trade Policy memorandum also directs the administration to review various tariff- and tariff-adjacent levers the United States could use to further its new trade policy. Reed Smith’s International Trade and National Security team tracks the latest threatened and implemented U.S. tariffs, as well as counter-tariffs from other countries around the world.
JPMorgan has become the first major Wall Street bank to forecast a US recession in the back half of 2025, citing the impact of President Trump's tariffs on economic growth. The firm's chief economist Michael Feroli projects a two-quarter recession with GDP contracting by 1% in the third quarter and 0.5% in the fourth quarter, leading to an unemployment rate of 5.3%. This forecast marks a significant shift in market sentiment, as other economists have also warned about rising risks of recession due to Trump's tariffs.
A federal judge ordered FEMA to disburse millions in grants to Democratic-led states, finding the agency's manual review process violated his previous injunction against an across-the-board federal grant freeze. Judge McConnell disagreed with the Justice Department's claim that FEMA was in compliance, stating the review "essentially imposes an indefinite categorical pause on payments" and was covertly attempting to implement President Trump's executive order targeting sanctuary cities.
US National Security Agency (NSA) Director Gen. Timothy Haugh was fired on Thursday, along with his civilian deputy Wendy Noble, after far-right activist Laura Loomer urged President Donald Trump to remove them during a meeting. The firings come amid concerns about loyalty to the president and Haugh's background, which some see as being at odds with Trump's views. Reaction from Democrats has been swift, with lawmakers expressing concern that Haugh's removal will compromise national security in an era of increasing cyber threats.
The Social Security Administration is set to begin layoffs of potentially thousands of employees as soon as next week, following a review by Elon Musk's cost-cutting team, DOGE. The agency has already seen 7,000 job losses under Trump administration efforts to reduce federal agencies, and new cuts are expected to hit a workforce that was stretched thin even before Trump took office. The layoffs will disproportionately affect rural field offices, which have struggled to serve a surge in customers due to policy changes and staffing shortages.
Stellantis NV has temporarily laid off 900 US workers due to the impact of US President Donald Trump's tariffs on auto imports, which have been increased to 10% for some countries. The company will also pause production at one assembly plant each in Mexico and Canada, affecting jobs at several facilities. Shares of Stellantis fell sharply after the announcement, with nearly half of cars sold last year in the US being imported from abroad.
Foreign arrivals into major US airports plummeted by over 20% in mid-to-late March compared to the same time last year, while US citizens' visits increased by nearly 14%, according to customs pass-through data. The decline in foreign arrivals may be attributed to a combination of factors, including trade wars, economic and political uncertainty, and fears of detainment or harassment. This trend has significant implications for the US travel industry, which could see a modest drag on GDP growth due to reduced tourism.
Markets around the world continued to reel from Donald Trump’s tariffs. The US stock market had a second day of steep declines, with all three indexes down over 5% for the day. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite entered a bear market, the first time a major index fund has done so since 2022. Meanwhile, the FTSE 100 saw its biggest daily drop since the pandemic. US Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell issued a rare warning that the tariffs could lead to both higher unemployment and higher inflation. “We face a highly uncertain outlook,” Powell remarked. Ignoring Powell’s words of caution, Trump instead said on social media that Powell should cut interest rates. “CUT INTEREST RATES, JEROME, AND STOP PLAYING POLITICS,” Trump said. Carmakers continued to offer deals to customers in light of the new 25% tariffs placed on cars and auto parts. Stallantis and Hyundai became the latest manufacturers to say they’ll offer discounts to US customers in the coming months, as fear of higher car prices take over. Nintendo announced that the release of its Switch 2 will be delayed amid Trump’s new tariffs, an early sign of the supply chain issues the new levies will have on products.
NOAA's Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research is set to lose most of its external websites due to the early termination of a cloud web services contract, which will result in the disappearance of climate and environmental science research from public view. This comes amid broader challenges for NOAA, including workforce cuts under the Trump administration and the recent lapse of a translation service contract that provided forecasts in multiple languages.
The White House has fired multiple administration officials, including four National Security Council staffers, after Laura Loomer, a far-right activist, urged President Donald Trump to get rid of them during a meeting. The firings were reportedly a direct result of Loomer's recommendations, which included targeting individuals perceived as disloyal to Trump's agenda. The White House has defended the firings, with Trump calling Loomer "a very good patriot" and praising her for making recommendations on personnel matters.
US President Donald Trump's decision to impose sweeping "reciprocal" tariffs on US trade partners will have devastating effects on global economic order, upending decades of free trade and potentially pushing inflation above 4% by the end of the year. The tariffs will wreak havoc on households, businesses, and financial markets worldwide, including major economies in Asia and Europe, and may lead to retaliatory measures from other countries. Trump's protectionist agenda is seen as a reckless repudiation of all trade agreements the US has signed, threatening America's economic exceptionalism and isolating the country from the global system that has driven its century-long rise.
US-based employers announced 275,240 job cuts in March 2025, a 60% increase from the previous month and a 205% increase from the same period last year. The majority of these cuts were attributed to Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) plans, with 216,215 federal government positions being eliminated. This marks the third-highest monthly total on record for job cuts in March, surpassing the previous high set in April 2020.
A US federal judge has ruled that a lawsuit against the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Elon Musk's "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) can continue, allowing the plaintiffs to pursue injunctive relief under the Administrative Procedure Act. The lawsuit alleges that OPM illegally disclosed tens of millions of Americans' private records to DOGE agents in violation of the federal Privacy Act of 1974. The judge's decision sends a message that Americans' personal data stored with the government is protected and not subject to exploitation by unelected individuals or organizations.
RH's stock price plummeted 44% on Thursday morning after US President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on goods from around the world, including a 46% tariff on Vietnam and a 54% tariff on China. RH sources 70% of its products from Asia, with Vietnam and China accounting for more than half that total, making them particularly vulnerable to the tariffs. The company's CEO, Gary Friedman, expressed shock at the sudden impact of the tariffs, stating that he had not anticipated the severity of the reaction.
US President Donald Trump's recent tariff announcement has been met with confusion and criticism, as various officials within his administration offer competing explanations for the policy. The tariffs, which would return the US to its highest tariff duty rate since the late 1800s, are seen by many as a chaotic and ineffective attempt to revive the 19th-century protectionist US economy. Ultimately, the Trump administration's lack of clarity on their economic goals and methods has led to accusations that they are more interested in using tariffs as a negotiating tool for personal gain than in promoting genuine economic policy.
US President Donald Trump has imposed a 26% tariff on US imports from India, marking a significant escalation in the trade tensions between the two countries. The tariffs are expected to have a substantial impact on India's economy, with estimates suggesting a $33 billion hit to its export market and potentially exacerbating the country's slowdown in economic growth. The move is seen as a response to India's high tariffs, which tower above those of other major economies, and comes ahead of a bilateral trade agreement between the two countries aimed at boosting bilateral trade to $500 billion per year by the end of the decade.
US stocks plummeted by $2.5 trillion on Thursday, with the S&P 500 Index experiencing its largest decline since June 2020, amid concerns that President Trump's new tariffs could plunge the economy into recession. The tariffs, equivalent to the largest tax increase since 1968, are expected to add 1.5% to prices this year and weigh on personal incomes and consumer spending. Companies with manufacturing ties to overseas countries, such as Apple and Nike, were particularly hard hit, with some stocks falling by over 9%.
The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will end its mortgage rescue program, VASP, which has helped nearly 20,000 veterans avoid foreclosure since its inception in 2020. The move has sparked concerns that thousands of veterans who rely on the program may be left without affordable options to keep their homes, as Republican critics have been pushing for an alternative program called a partial claim. Without a replacement program, housing advocates and mortgage company executives warn that unnecessary foreclosures could result.
Vietnam is facing a significant economic blow due to the US tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, which have increased the country's export tax rate to 46% and are expected to slow its economic growth, cause job losses, and disrupt supply chains. The tariffs will disproportionately affect Vietnam's economy, which relies heavily on exports equivalent to nearly 90% of its output, and has little leverage to negotiate a reprieve. The impact is already being felt, with many businesses and workers facing uncertainty about their future prospects.
A growing movement in the UK, inspired by Canada's "Elbows Up" campaign, is calling for a boycott of American goods in response to President Trump's tariffs on UK products. Brits are sharing lists of major US consumer brands that might be avoided and exploring alternatives from the UK, EU, and other non-US sources, with some even suggesting a "Buy British" or "Avoid US products" campaign. While there may be challenges in boycotting certain US products, particularly tech giants like Apple and Microsoft, many UK consumers are embracing the idea of reducing their dependence on individual US products and exploring domestic alternatives.
Ten top scientists at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) who were unexpectedly fired as part of a massive reduction in force (RIF) have been called back to work after a "coding error" triggered their terminations. The researchers, including Parkinson's disease researcher Richard Youle, had received 60-day notices for their official termination dates but will now continue working until the institute figures out how to officially reinstate them. An internal NIH document suggests that some employees may have been targeted due to age, with most of the affected scientists over 60 years old and ineligible for severance.
The Trump administration has taken aim at Maine Governor Janet Mills, targeting the state with investigations and funding cuts over its stance on transgender athletes in sports. The actions, which include revoking data collection contracts and canceling marine research grants, were sparked by a brief exchange between Trump and Mills at a White House meeting. Maine officials have pushed back against the administration's efforts, citing state law and federal regulations that protect trans athletes' rights.
Retirees are flocking to Social Security offices in Des Moines, Iowa, due to confusion over new rules requiring beneficiaries to come in person if they cannot register online, causing long lines and wait times. The changes have been attributed to cost-cutting measures by Elon Musk's U.S. DOGE Service, which has slashed jobs and functions at the agency, sparking fears among seniors that their benefits will be affected. Many recipients are expressing concern and frustration over the new requirements, with some even showing support for DOGE's efforts despite misinformation about the system.
Senate Republicans have unveiled their new budget blueprint, which would implement President Donald Trump's domestic agenda and include significant tax cuts, border security measures, and spending reductions. The plan has received support from Trump, but critics warn that it may not comply with strict budget rules due to an accounting tactic used by Senate Republicans. The Senate is set to vote on the blueprint as early as Thursday, with a final vote potentially occurring in May or later this year.
Trump's auto tariffs will cover over $460 billion worth of vehicle and parts imports annually, with tariffs on vehicles starting April 4 and parts tariffs beginning May 3. The tariffs will impact nearly 150 auto parts categories including engines, transmissions, batteries, and automotive computers.
The US Department of Agriculture has frozen federal funding for education programs in Maine, citing concerns over "wasteful" or "redundant" grants awarded by the Biden administration. The move comes as part of an ongoing investigation into Maine's public education system, which was prompted by President Trump's executive order barring transgender women from participating in women's sports. Governor Janet Mills has declined to accept a proposed settlement agreement that would require her to change a state law prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity.
Federal immigration enforcement officials detained 37 workers at Mt. Baker Roofing in Bellingham on Wednesday morning, citing unlawful employment of aliens without legal work authorization. The workers, who have been with the company for years and are considered "tax-paying employees," were taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers wielding guns and taking them away in two buses. The detained workers will likely be processed at the Tacoma ICE facility and face a master calendar hearing to determine their charges and potential relief.
National Security Adviser Jake Waltz's team has set up at least 20 Signal group chats for crisis communications across the world, sparking concerns about sensitive information being shared on unsecured platforms. The use of personal Gmail accounts by Waltz and his staff for government communication has also raised eyebrows, with Democrats calling for investigations into potential security breaches. The controversy surrounding the Yemen chat group, where Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared classified operational details, has led to calls for Waltz's resignation and increased scrutiny of the NSC's use of Signal.
Whirlpool Corp. will lay off 651 workers from its Amana manufacturing facility, effective June 1, citing reduced consumer demand for refrigeration products as the reason. The layoffs represent nearly one-third of the company's workforce in Amana and come amid economic turmoil in Iowa, with the state experiencing a contraction in real GDP and worsening agriculture economy. Whirlpool CEO Marc Bitzer had previously stated that the company would seek to cut costs and prepare for a housing market recovery, although the company's stock has declined significantly over the past five years.
The ACLU has obtained a copy of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) validation guide for its "Alien Enemies Act," which allows for the detention of Venezuelans deemed members of the alleged gang Tren de Aragua (TDA). To be validated as a member, individuals must score at least 8 points on an arbitrary scoring system, with criteria including tattoos, social media posts, and associations with known TDA members. Critics argue that this system is subjective, biased against Venezuelans, and can lead to innocent people being detained without concrete evidence.
The DOGE-affiliated United States Institute of Peace (USIP) has attempted to transfer its $500 million headquarters building to the General Services Administration (GSA) at no cost, according to court filings. The move comes after tensions escalated when USIP's directors and staff were forced out by a new leadership, with one of DOGE's representatives taking over as acting president. A lawsuit filed by former USIP officials seeks to stop the transfer, claiming it is an unlawful attempt to dismantle the agency.
NASA has awarded SpaceX's Starship rocket a contract under its Launch Services II program, despite the vehicle having never completed a successful test flight. The decision comes as SpaceX CEO Elon Musk's influence in the White House grows, raising concerns about conflicts of interest. The contract allows NASA to use Starship for launches and potentially deliver astronauts to the lunar surface, but the rocket's troubled development history raises questions about its readiness for future missions.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered U.S. diplomats to scrutinize the social media content of certain student visa applicants, citing remarks made by President Trump about deporting foreign citizens with "hostile attitudes" towards American culture and institutions. The directive aims to bar students who have expressed sympathy for Palestinians during Israel's war in Gaza from entering the country. Consular officers must now refer these applicants to a mandatory social media check, which could lead to visa denials or revocations.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued RIF notices to dozens of employees across various divisions, including those focused on environmental health, population health, and infectious diseases. The cuts are attributed to an executive order from President Donald Trump's "Department of Government Efficiency" initiative, which aims to reduce the workforce at the CDC. Experts warn that these reductions will have devastating consequences for public health, particularly in rural areas where federal funding is heavily relied upon.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which provides funding to libraries and museums nationwide, has been gutted by the Trump administration's executive order, putting 77 employees on paid administrative leave. The agency's annual budget of less than $1 per person in the US will likely be terminated, threatening student field trips, classes for seniors, and access to digital services like Libby. The move is expected to have significant consequences for libraries and museums, particularly those in rural areas that rely heavily on federal funding.
The Trump administration has cut tens of millions of dollars from Planned Parenthood's federal funding, giving the organization 10 days to demonstrate compliance with executive orders. The move affects nine Planned Parenthood affiliates and other providers in the Title X family planning program, resulting in some receiving less than half of their requested funding or none at all. Critics argue that the decision will harm patients' access to essential healthcare services, including birth control, cancer screenings, and STI testing and treatment.
President Donald Trump's administration has taken unprecedented actions to intimidate and silence perceived opponents, including law firms, academia, and media outlets, using executive orders and bully tactics. The judiciary has repeatedly halted or reversed Trump's actions that exceeded legal limits, but judges who have opposed him have faced attacks from the president and his allies. Despite this, Trump remains confident in his use of executive power, with many Republicans in Congress showing little opposition to his efforts to undermine institutions and silence dissenting voices.
National Security Adviser Michael Waltz has been using his personal Gmail account for government communications, including sensitive military matters, despite guidance to use secure platforms. The use of unsecured email has raised concerns about data security and potential exposure of classified information, with experts warning that foreign intelligence services could exploit such vulnerabilities. Despite controversy over the incident, Waltz remains in Trump's favor due to the president's reluctance to fire him, citing a desire not to give liberal media a "scalp."
The Trump administration's Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has initiated a sweeping purge of senior leaders and employees at various US health agencies, including the National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Food and Drug Administration, resulting in widespread layoffs and administrative leaves. The move is part of a broader downsizing effort aimed at reducing the federal health workforce by 20,000 staff members, with estimated annual savings of $1.8 billion. Critics argue that the reorganization could compromise public health efforts and violate federal law, while supporters claim it will help streamline operations and focus on core mission objectives.
The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has begun a massive wave of job cuts, affecting thousands of employees across multiple agencies, including the FDA, CDC, NIH, and CMS. The cuts, which include reductions in force and reassignments, aim to prioritize prevention over treatment and reduce "bureaucratic sprawl," but have been met with criticism from experts who warn that they will leave the country less safe and prepared to respond to health threats. The total number of employees affected is not yet clear, but HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has promised that the department will do more with less.
March 2025
President Trump has decided not to fire his national security adviser Mike Waltz despite controversy surrounding a group text chat with journalists and cabinet members on Signal, which included a journalist's number. Despite repeated messages of support from Trump, Waltz has lost sway with senior aides within the White House, who view him as imperious and out of line with Trump's agenda. The decision not to fire Waltz has been seen as a strategic move by Trump to avoid media scrutiny and maintain control over his administration.
The Trump administration has cut tens of millions of dollars in funding to Planned Parenthood affiliates, giving them 10 days to provide evidence that they will comply with executive orders. The move has been criticized by healthcare providers, who argue that it will drive up healthcare costs and prevent people from accessing essential services like birth control and cancer screenings. The decision is seen as undemocratic and potentially unlawful, with some arguing that the administration bypassed the formal rulemaking process to impose its priorities on public health programs.
The US government's funding cuts have had a devastating impact on rural America, particularly in West Virginia, where President Trump's administration has canceled contracts with food banks and reduced grants to small agriculture businesses. Trey Yates, a 27-year-old dairy farmer, lost his contract with Mountaineer Food Bank due to the cuts, which will force him to close his business unless he can secure new funding. The cuts are part of a broader trend of federal government spending reductions that have left states like West Virginia struggling to fund essential programs and services.
The White House has concluded its review of how Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg was inadvertently included on a Signal message group chat of high-ranking officials discussing Yemen strikes, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that "this case has been closed here at the White House." The White House has taken steps to prevent similar incidents in the future, but details of these measures remain undisclosed. The incident has sparked calls for an investigation by the Pentagon's acting inspector general and a lawsuit from a nonprofit watchdog group.
US President Donald Trump has reiterated his intention to acquire Greenland for the US, stating "We'll get Greenland. Yeah, 100%," in an interview with NBC News on March 29. The comments come amid increased tensions between the US and Russia over Arctic security, with Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen criticizing US Vice President JD Vance's remarks on Danish stewardship of the island. Trump's expansionist ambitions have sparked concerns about his disregard for state sovereignty, particularly in Ukraine, where Russia has been occupying lands since 2014.
The New College of Florida has fired Chinese professor Kevin Wang under state law SB 846, which restricts hiring individuals from "countries of concern" without approval. The college cited the law as the reason for Wang's termination, despite his asylum bid and authorization to work in the US. Wang had been teaching at the university since May 2022, after fleeing persecution in China due to his criticism of the Chinese Communist Party.
Johns Hopkins University has instructed its faculty and staff not to intervene if federal law enforcement officers arrive on campus to detain a community member, including those who are undocumented or have been targeted by immigration authorities. The university's guidance advises employees to remain calm, contact public safety, and not engage with federal officers in non-public areas. This move comes as Secretary of State Marco Rubio has signed over 300 letters revoking visas for students and others deemed "opposition" to American foreign policy, including those who have expressed support for Palestinian rights.
The Trump administration is quietly revoking the immigration status of hundreds of international students without their knowledge or that of their universities, using a rarely-used provision to target students from the Middle East and Muslim-majority countries. This practice, which has been occurring in recent days, appears to be an attempt to deport students based on the claim that their presence would have "potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences" for the US. University officials and students are expressing alarm over the lack of notification and oversight, with some reporting that student residency statuses were changed without their knowledge or that of university staff.
A secret Pentagon memo, signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, prioritizes deterring China's seizure of Taiwan and shoring up homeland defense, with some passages mirroring a report from the conservative Heritage Foundation. The document outlines a "denial defense" strategy for Taiwan, including increasing troop presence through submarines and bombers, while also calling for pressure on Taipei to significantly increase its defense spending. The memo reflects Trump's international fixations and has been described as confusing by congressional national security committees, with some lawmakers attributing the inconsistencies to the influence of the Heritage Foundation.
The US has sent letters to large European companies warning them to comply with Donald Trump's executive order banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, which applies to foreign companies that supply or service the American government. The letters, sent by US embassies in EU states and Belgium, require companies to attest to their compliance and face potential penalties under the False Claims Act if they fail to do so. This move is part of escalating tensions between the Trump administration and Europe over economic and security policy, with France vowing to defend its companies and values against what it sees as unacceptable American interference.
US Attorney Adam Schleifer was fired by the White House on Friday, with sources indicating that the decision was made at Trump's behest due to his prosecution of Andrew Wiederhorn, the former CEO of Fatburger and Johnny Rockets. Wiederhorn has been accused of hiding taxable income from the federal government, and his defense team had aggressively pushed for the case to be dropped. The firing is seen as a politically motivated move by some in the Justice Department, who fear that it will have a chilling effect on prosecutors who may pursue cases against Trump allies or companies with ties to him.
The American Bar Association and several bar organizations have issued a statement in support of the rule of law, rejecting efforts to undermine the courts and intimidate judges who make unpopular rulings. The statement emphasizes the importance of protecting the independence of the judiciary and upholding the values of justice and fairness. The signatory organizations call on lawyers across the profession to speak out against intimidation and stand in defense of the rule of law.
President Donald Trump has already spent $10.7 million of taxpayer money on golf trips since taking office, with each of his four weekends in office featuring a visit to one of his own golf courses or resorts. This expense has flown under the radar of waste and fraud experts at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), who have been scrutinizing other government spending but seem to be ignoring Trump's golf-related expenses. The total cost of Trump's golf trips since taking office is estimated to be over $152 million, with many critics accusing him of using his presidency to prop up his own business interests.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's younger brother, Phil Hegseth, has been appointed as a senior adviser to the secretary for the Department of Homeland Security and liaison officer to the Defense Department, sparking concerns about nepotism. The role is considered high-profile and involves meetings with top officials, including UFC champion Conor McGregor, and traveling on the Pentagon's 747 aircraft. Phil Hegseth's appointment has raised questions about whether he was hired in violation of federal nepotism laws, but it appears that if he is wholly employed by DHS, it would avoid a nepotism issue.
The US Department of State has sent emails to hundreds of international students in the US, instructing them to self-deport due to their campus activism or social media posts deemed "anti-American". The move is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to crack down on immigration and limit the presence of foreign nationals in the country. The emails have sparked outrage among immigrant rights groups and international students, who argue that they are being unfairly targeted and denied access to education and opportunities in the US.
Perkins Coie, a prominent law firm with ties to major clients like Amazon and Boeing, has resisted President Trump's executive order targeting the firm by filing a lawsuit challenging its validity. The firm's decision to fight back has been met with support from some clients, who have sent cards and notes expressing gratitude for Perkins' stance, while others have lost business in the wake of the order. A federal court judge has temporarily blocked the executive order, ruling that it may be unconstitutional due to its potential impact on lawyers' ability to practice law.
Israeli officials are furious that sensitive intelligence provided by Israel to the US was leaked through a group chat on the Signal messaging app, which included plans for airstrikes against Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen. The leak has raised concerns about cybersecurity and operational security protocols, with multiple US intelligence officials and military personnel saying that even unclassified information shared in the chat would be a violation of protocol. The incident has sparked criticism towards President Trump's national security adviser Mike Waltz, who set up the group chat and added Goldberg by mistake.
The US Naval Academy has ended its use of affirmative action in admissions, reversing a policy previously defended as essential for diversity and national security. The decision comes after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's office ordered the academy to identify books related to "diversity, equity and inclusion" themes that are housed in the school's library and remove them from circulation. The move is part of the Trump administration's push to eliminate "woke" initiatives throughout the federal government.
Peter Marks, the top vaccine regulator at the FDA, has been forced out by the Trump administration after he refused to support misinformation about vaccines promoted by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Marks had overseen the development of COVID-19 vaccines and was a key architect of Operation Warp Speed, but left his post with an effective departure date of April 5 due to disagreements with Kennedy's views on vaccine safety. The move has been criticized by experts who praise Marks' work at the agency and warn that it will undermine future efforts to fight diseases and develop therapies.
Brenna Trout Frey, a former Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP attorney, has resigned in response to an email from the firm's executive partner that she believes attempted to compromise the firm's values and engage in "illegal DEI discrimination" by capitulating to the Trump administration's demands. Frey argues that attorneys have a duty to uphold the rule of law and cannot ethically continue to work for firms that sacrifice this principle. She is calling on her former colleagues to join her in speaking out against such actions.
The Social Security Administration's staffing cuts under President Trump are resulting in a loss of technical expertise, putting critical systems and benefits payments at risk. With nearly a quarter of key software skills staff leaving, several software updates and modernization processes are likely to miss deadlines, potentially causing payment interruptions for months. The agency is also facing challenges with the transition from paper checks to digital payments, with phone lines and online claims systems experiencing high volumes and wait times.
US Vice President JD Vance's recent visit to Greenland, where he claimed that Denmark was not protecting the security of its citizens and that the US would do better, has been widely criticized as an example of American imperialism. The author argues that this stance is not only morally wrong but also strategically disastrous, as it undermines the complex and effective security arrangements between Greenland, Denmark, and the US. Vance's comments are seen as a reflection of the Trump administration's approach to international relations, which prioritizes American interests over those of its allies and ignores the benefits of cooperation with other nations.
Tom Cartwright, a retired J.P. Morgan executive, has become a key source for tracking and documenting U.S. deportation flights under President Trump's administration, using publicly available data from aviation tracking sites to compile weekly and monthly reports on ICE flight activity. Cartwright's work has been cited by think tanks and legal organizations, and he has become the go-to source for understanding the administration's immigration crackdown, despite his modest approach to his role in the nation's immigration furor. His database shows that ICE has carried out 267 deportation flights under Trump, with a significant increase in military-transport planes being used at an unprecedented rate.
The Greater Cleveland Food Bank reported that it had canceled 20 truckloads of food deliveries, which were intended to be delivered between April and July 2025, due to budget cuts by the Trump administration. The cancellations resulted in a loss of around $1 million worth of food, including milk, eggs, and meat, and have been described as "unjust" and "cratered" by Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb. The USDA has stated that there was no pause in regular food purchases, but the funding for some programs has been repurposed or suspended due to budget cuts.
President Trump has selected Fox News contributor Sara Carter as the nation's next drug czar, despite her lack of experience in drug policy or government service. Carter's background is in journalism, with a focus on border issues and anti-Biden rhetoric, which may raise concerns about her qualifications for the role. Trump praised Carter's work in tackling the opioid crisis, but critics question whether she has the necessary expertise to effectively lead the nation's efforts against illicit drugs.
Staff members at the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) have received termination notices effective immediately, with sources indicating that the majority of employees were let go due to the Trump administration's efforts to freeze funding and dismantle the organization. The USIP, which promotes conflict resolution and prevention, has been targeted by the Trump administration as part of its broader effort to reduce government spending and eliminate non-profit organizations. The terminations come on the same day that the Trump administration formally shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
The American Embassy in France has sent a letter to French companies doing business with the US government, requiring them to certify that they do not promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) policies, which are seen as "illegal discrimination" by President Trump. The move is part of Trump's efforts to eliminate D.E.I. policies in the US, which have been met with resistance from companies such as Google and universities. French companies have traditionally prioritized increasing diversity and promoting equal opportunities for women, minorities, and people with disabilities, and many are expressing dismay at the Trump administration's attempt to impose its own policies on European-based workforces.
The Trump administration's travel ban could impact international students from over 40 countries who are barred or limited from entry into the US, and several universities in California are urging their students to reconsider traveling abroad due to the uncertainty surrounding the policy. The University of California, Berkeley, has stated that it does not recommend international travel for personal or professional reasons, while other universities such as UCLA and UC San Diego have warned students to carefully evaluate their travel plans. The ban could affect over 1.12 million international students in California, who fear being targeted based on their nationality and losing their visas and degrees.
Columbia University's interim president, Katrina Armstrong, has stepped down just one week after the university agreed to a list of demands from the Trump administration in exchange for $400 million in federal funding. The sudden departure comes as the university faces significant criticism and pressure over its handling of antisemitic incidents and campus safety measures. Claire Shipman, a journalist with two degrees from Columbia, has been appointed as the new president, assuming the top job at one of the nation's pre-eminent universities during an "extraordinarily charged moment" in American higher education.
Families of detainees being held at Krome Detention Center are speaking out about the alleged harsh conditions of the facility, including lack of food, water, and medical attention. A viral video shows people sleeping on the floor, while another detainee pleads for help due to a severe lack of food. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has acknowledged temporary overcrowding concerns but claims it is taking measures to manage capacity and maintain humane treatment.
Two immigrants were arrested by US Border Patrol agents after a traffic stop in Montville, Maine, sparking widespread criticism and outrage among locals who claim the sheriff's office cooperated with federal immigration officials. The arrest has fueled concerns about border enforcement efforts under the new Trump administration, which critics say are tearing families apart. A local online fundraiser has raised over $200,000 to support the family affected by the arrests.
The Trump administration rescinded the NIH's Final Scientific Integrity Policy on March 28, 2025, citing a need to align with the administration's priorities and remove what they viewed as "harmful DEI and gender ideology" from research standards. Despite this rescission, the NIH stated it remains committed to scientific integrity through other existing policies on research misconduct, authorship, and data management. Science advocacy groups have criticized the move as part of a broader pattern of rolling back DEI initiatives across government agencies since Trump took office in January 2025.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been ordered by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to refrain from releasing its assessment on the risk of catching measles, which found that vaccination rates in areas near outbreaks were high. The CDC had planned to emphasize the importance of vaccinating people against measles, but instead issued a statement saying that the decision to vaccinate is a personal one and should be made with consultation from a healthcare provider. This shift in messaging has been criticized by some CDC staff, who feel that it may undermine public health efforts to combat the outbreak.
The US government has issued a directive requiring consular officers to conduct social media reviews of foreign students studying in or seeking to study in the US. The review aims to assess whether applicants have ties to terrorist organizations or advocate for their activities, and may refer cases to the Fraud Prevention Unit for further investigation if derogatory information is found. This new policy applies to F, M, and J student visa holders, including those participating in pro-Hamas events, and has sparked concerns about increased surveillance of Palestinian students.
Measles cases have surged nationwide, with nearly half of US states reporting cases, according to the CDC. The highly contagious virus can spread rapidly through unvaccinated or undervaccinated communities, and hospitalizations among children have increased significantly this year. Measles is considered one of the most contagious viruses in the world, and vaccination rates have dropped due to exemptions for religious or personal reasons.
As the Trump administration slashes most foreign aid, the U.S. State Department quietly funded Greenland’s national dog sled race, covering transport costs for dogs, sleds, and racers. The move, amid growing protests against U.S. influence in Greenland, underscores escalating tensions as Vice President JD Vance visits the American military base in Pituffik instead of attending the race.
The Justice Department is considering a major reorganization that would merge the DEA with the ATF, transfer INTERPOL Washington to the U.S. Marshals Service, and reduce the tax enforcement division, according to an internal memo. These proposals, reflecting Trump administration priorities, have sparked uncertainty given the distinct missions of the agencies involved and the legal complexities around implementing such changes without congressional approval. Officials say the memo is intended to gather feedback and that no decisions have been finalized.
The NIH has abruptly canceled all RECOVER program grants for long COVID research, halting nearly completed studies aimed at uncovering the condition’s biological mechanisms. Researchers and advocates warn the cuts waste millions in taxpayer dollars and could cripple future treatment and drug development efforts. The decision, part of a broader rollback of COVID-related funding under the Trump administration, has left scientists alarmed and long COVID clinics uncertain about their survival.
The Maine Principals' Association and a southern Maine school board rejected demands from the Trump administration regarding transgender athletes. They stated that complying with the administration's demands would violate the Maine Human Rights Act.
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) has hinted that the Trump administration may be working to rename Washington, D.C. as the "District of America," following President Trump's executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America." Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA) criticized this move, saying it was originally proposed as a joke in 2010 and is now being used to advance the administration's environmental agenda. Boebert told her colleagues to "keep the jokes at bay" and not make fun of the proposal, suggesting that they should take it seriously.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to eliminate 10,000 additional positions at the department, building on prior workforce reductions under the Trump administration. Combined with earlier cuts, the move would shrink the agency’s staff by roughly 25%, signaling a major downsizing of federal public health infrastructure.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has notified the University of Maryland of its intent to terminate the Terrorism and Targeted Violence (T2V) project. T2V was the only public dataset merging terrorism events with various forms of targeted violence in the U.S. The project compiled data on over 1,800 terrorism and targeted violence events in 2023-2024, identified 400 incidents targeting U.S. schools, revealed grievance-motivated mass violence as the deadliest form of targeted violence, highlighted the growing intersection of terrorism, hate crime, and school-based violence, and showed increased involvement of older age cohorts in these crimes.
In March 2025, Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts University doctoral student, was forcefully detained by masked ICE agents in Somerville, Massachusetts, sparking outrage over the secretive and aggressive nature of the arrest. Ozturk, a legal resident on a student visa and co-author of a pro-Palestinian op-ed, was accused without clear public evidence of supporting Hamas and secretly flown to a Louisiana detention center. The incident is seen as part of a broader crackdown on dissent and immigrant rights under the second Trump administration, raising alarm over escalating authoritarian tactics in the U.S.
The Trump administration has restored funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and the Open Technology Fund after the groups sued. The U.S. Agency for Global Media had previously cut off funding as part of broader efforts to eliminate the agency, but has now reversed course following legal challenges.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has rapidly spread across numerous government agencies, attempting to terminate thousands of federal employees. Many DOGE team members have connections to Musk's companies or Silicon Valley, with SpaceX having significant representation, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest as these individuals reshape federal agencies.
A senior Pentagon source revealed that the Trump administration ordered the unauthorized installation of the Signal messaging app on government devices, overriding Department of Defense cybersecurity policies. This move—prompted by top officials’ preference for Signal’s encrypted and disappearing messages—violates the Presidential Records Act and possibly the Espionage Act, as it potentially exposes national defense information to foreign surveillance. The widespread use of Signal, including by officials on personal devices, raises serious legal and national security concerns, with calls mounting for investigations and accountability.
Private contact information and passwords for top U.S. security officials—Pete Hegseth, Mike Waltz, and Tulsi Gabbard—were found online through commercial databases and leaked data, raising serious security concerns. Reporters discovered that many of the phone numbers were still active and linked to Signal, WhatsApp, and other personal accounts, potentially exposing sensitive communications, including a chat about a military strike on Yemen. Experts warn that this data could enable phishing, spyware attacks, and even political blackmail, yet the officials and U.S. agencies have not responded to inquiries.
AARP is actively fighting to protect Social Security against recent changes by the Social Security Administration, including cuts to phone services, workforce reductions, and office closures that could negatively impact millions of older Americans. The organization has mobilized its members to send over a million messages to Congress, issued formal statements opposing service cuts, and is advocating for improved customer service for the nearly 69 million Americans who rely on Social Security benefits.
A WIRED investigation found that U.S. national security adviser Michael Waltz and other top officials, including White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, had left their Venmo friend lists public, exposing sensitive personal and professional connections. This oversight revealed links to journalists, defense contractors, and members of a controversial Signal chat where confidential discussions about a Yemen strike took place. While the White House declined to comment, the exposed accounts were made private only after WIRED’s inquiry, highlighting a broader pattern of digital carelessness among senior officials.
The NIH and CDC are abruptly terminating billions in COVID-19 research funding, citing the end of the pandemic and shifting political priorities under the Trump administration. The cuts also target projects on climate change, DEI, and long COVID, sparking concern among scientists about preparedness for future health crises.
A major security breach involving a Signal group chat between top U.S. officials and a journalist has alarmed American allies, exposing sensitive military plans and raising doubts about intelligence-sharing with Washington. The leak, centered on a planned U.S. strike in Yemen, has intensified existing concerns among NATO members and partners like Japan about the reliability of the U.S. under President Trump. Meanwhile, Trump downplayed the incident, blaming a staff error and defending National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who reportedly added the journalist to the chat.
The Trump administration has proposed a sweeping rule change to the Affordable Care Act that would remove gender-affirming care from essential health benefits, threatening access for transgender individuals and placing financial burdens on states. The rule, released with limited public notice and an unusually short comment period, is part of a broader effort to roll back protections for trans Americans across healthcare, education, and civil rights.
President Trump announced new tariffs on auto imports, aiming to boost U.S. manufacturing but risking price hikes and disruptions due to automakers’ reliance on global supply chains. The tariffs are part of a broader strategy that includes levies on steel, aluminum, and Chinese imports, and could escalate into a global trade war. Despite warnings from the industry, Trump argues these measures will create jobs and reduce the deficit, citing Hyundai’s planned steel plant in Louisiana as proof.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has floated legislation that could allow Republicans to voice their support for President Donald Trump's agenda without facing impeachment votes against judges who have ruled against him. The "No Rogue Rulings Act" would bar district court judges from issuing nationwide injunctions, a move that could provide an off-ramp for Republicans seeking to push back against judicial overreach. However, it remains unclear whether the bill can gain enough Republican support to pass the House and avoid impeachment votes against judges like U.S. District Judge James Boasberg.
A California couple, Gladys and Nelson Gonzalez, who have lived in the US for 35 years with no criminal records, were deported to Colombia after being detained on February 21. The couple had pursued legal paths to remain in the country but ultimately exhausted their options, leaving them without a way to stay in the US. A GoFundMe page set up by their daughter has raised over $70,000 to help support the family during this transition.
Families are raising alarm over dire conditions at the Krome Detention Center in Miami, where detainees report sleeping on floors, lacking food and water, and receiving little to no medical care. A viral video and firsthand accounts describe overcrowding, heat, and illness, prompting public outcry and concern from advocacy groups. ICE attributes the conditions to a recent surge in detainee numbers and says it’s working to manage capacity while maintaining federal standards.
In West Texas, some parents influenced by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s promotion of vitamin A as a measles remedy have been giving their unvaccinated children dangerously high doses, leading to cases of liver damage. Doctors warn this unproven treatment is complicating care amid a severe measles outbreak, undermining public health efforts.
Law firms are refusing to represent Trump opponents due to his attacks, threatening constitutional rights and weakening efforts to challenge his actions in court. Trump has used executive orders to target powerful law firms, banning their lawyers from government buildings and barring companies with federal contracts from employing them. The campaign is having a chilling effect on lawyers' willingness to defend Trump's opponents or contest his actions, with some former officials struggling to find legal representation.
The Social Security Administration is facing severe challenges due to budget cuts and staffing reductions led by Elon Musk's U.S. DOGE Service, resulting in website crashes, long phone wait times, and reduced services for retirees and disabled Americans. The agency's acting commissioner, Leland Dudek, has implemented rapid policy changes and pushed out experienced officials, creating chaos for front-line staff and leaving many beneficiaries struggling to access their benefits. Lawmakers and advocacy groups are alarmed by the situation, with some fearing it could be part of a conservative effort to privatize the agency, while the Trump administration maintains it won't touch Social Security benefits.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has floated the possibility of eliminating some federal courts as part of a broader effort by Republicans to take on judges who have ruled against President Donald Trump. The move comes as courts have blocked several actions taken by the Trump administration, and Johnson is seeking "desperate measures" to push back against these rulings. However, it remains unclear whether Congress would be able to pass legislation eliminating federal courts, given the need for bipartisan support and the potential for opposition from Democrats and some Republicans.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that Trump's 'Gold Card' initiative brought in $5 billion in a single day, as discussed on the podcast 'All-In'. The program aims to attract wealthy individuals to obtain U.S. Residency, replacing the EB-5 program, which required foreign investments that create U.S. Jobs. Trump mentioned that if recipients are deemed unsatisfactory, their investments can be refunded, allowing for fast deportation. Lutnick believes this approach could attract up to 37 million affluent individuals, potentially contributing significantly to the U.S. Economy and addressing national debt concerns.
President Trump signed an executive order targeting law firm Jenner & Block, restricting their access to government work and suspending security clearances for their lawyers. The order cites the firm's past employment of prosecutor Andrew Weissmann and its involvement in cases challenging Trump's policies on transgender rights and asylum.
President Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday to expand the executive branch's power over federal elections, potentially disenfranchising millions. The order seeks to wrest control from the states and make registering to vote more difficult, prompting immediate legal challenges.
The Department of Health and Human Services has appointed vaccine skeptic David Geier—previously disciplined for practicing medicine without a license—to lead a federal study on vaccines and autism, reigniting long-debunked theories. Public health experts fear the move will undermine trust in vaccines and distort decades of scientific consensus showing no link between vaccines and autism.
The Social Security Administration is facing a crisis as the Trump administration, under Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, slashes staff, closes offices, and implements policies that delay benefit access for millions. Critics warn that the aggressive anti-fraud push is destabilizing the program and setting the stage for potential privatization, despite widespread reliance on Social Security to prevent poverty.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that FEMA would be eliminated, aligning with President Trump’s broader push to decentralize federal disaster response. Meanwhile, a bipartisan House bill seeks to instead elevate FEMA to a Cabinet-level agency, citing the need for a more efficient and independent emergency management structure.
Governor Janet Mills strongly criticized President Donald Trump after he demanded an apology for their February confrontation over Maine's transgender athlete policies. Mills defended her stance on the rule of law and separation of powers, while calling for Trump to address pressing issues like healthcare, Social Security, and the economy instead of focusing on transgender sports.
Following Trump's negotiator, Steve Witkoff, admitting he may have been "duped" by Hamas in peace talks, MAGA supporters entered damage control. Vice President JD Vance defended Witkoff, while others criticized his foreign policy views, particularly regarding Putin and the war in Ukraine.
The Atlantic article describes how senior Trump administration officials accidentally included journalist Jeffrey Goldberg in a Signal group chat discussing military plans against Houthi targets in Yemen. The officials shared sensitive operational details before launching strikes, unaware Goldberg was present.
The article discusses how European companies are increasingly looking to move away from US cloud services provided by Amazon, Google, and Microsoft due to concerns about data security and privacy risks under the Trump administration. This shift is part of a broader European desire to reduce dependence on US technology companies, with some organizations already beginning to transition to European alternatives despite the significant challenges involved in migrating from established cloud ecosystems.
The White House has removed its website that publicly displays federal funding allocations, known as apportionments, which are statutorily required to be made public under a 2022 law. The move is likely to face opposition from lawmakers and government watchdogs who argue it undermines transparency and accountability in government spending. The decision comes after the Biden administration took over the Office of Management and Budget, with Director Russ Vought, who had previously been criticized for withholding funds from Ukraine using apportionment footnotes.
Immigrant women detained at the Krome North Processing Center in Miami describe horrific conditions including being chained for hours without access to bathrooms, held in overcrowded cells, and denied basic necessities like food, water, and sanitary products. The allegations come as ICE detention facilities are operating above capacity, with the Trump administration working to expand immigrant detention while lowering standards, despite government investigators repeatedly finding serious problems in these facilities.
The Trump administration has cut U.S. research funding to seven Australian universities, citing opposition to “woke gender ideology” and mandating compliance with anti-trans policies. The move has sparked backlash from Australian education leaders, who call it blatant foreign interference and a threat to academic freedom.
The IRS is nearing a data-sharing agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement that would allow immigration officials to use tax data to support deportation efforts. The agreement would enable ICE to submit names and addresses of suspected undocumented immigrants for the IRS to check against its confidential databases.
Columbia University has agreed to comply with President Trump's demands to regain $400 million in federal funding, including banning masks, empowering campus police, and placing the department of Middle East, South Asian and African Studies under oversight of a new senior vice provost who will review curriculum and faculty hiring to ensure balanced educational offerings. The university's decision comes after the Trump administration revoked funding over concerns about protection of Jewish students following pro-Palestinian protests, with Columbia administrators determining that fighting the federal government would be difficult given the many financial levers available to claw back money.
Cross-border trips from Canada to the U.S. have declined significantly, with nearly 500,000 fewer travelers in February 2025 compared to the same month in 2024, reaching levels not seen since the COVID-19 era. This steep drop coincides with President Trump's trade war and rhetoric about Canada becoming the 51st state, prompting many Canadians to boycott travel to the U.S. as a response to tariffs and political tensions.
The FBI has reduced staffing in its domestic terrorism office and discontinued tracking tools for such investigations, potentially undermining efforts to counter white supremacists and anti-government extremists. These changes, occurring under FBI Director Kash Patel, come despite previous warnings about domestic violent extremists posing significant security threats to the United States.
The US government has compiled a list of over 250 words and phrases deemed unacceptable for use in federal websites and documents, including terms related to diversity, equity, inclusion, climate change, vaccines, and LGBTQ+ issues. The list was created by the Trump administration's executive orders, which aim to eliminate references to these topics, but some departments have added terms unrelated to those executive orders. This move has sparked concerns about censorship and self-censorship among scientists and researchers, who are hesitant to use certain words or phrases in their work due to fear of losing government grants.
The Washington Post article describes how the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is making federal agencies less efficient through measures like requiring weekly activity reports, restricting equipment purchases, canceling necessary subscriptions, and diverting employees to scrub documents of DEI-related terms. These inefficiencies are impacting government services, with examples including unanswered IRS calls, delayed tornado warnings, and requiring in-person Social Security claims while simultaneously closing field offices.
The Open Technology Fund (OTF) has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) and the Office of Management and Budget, seeking to block the termination of its grant and secure the release of withheld Congressionally-appropriated funds. The lawsuit aims to preserve OTF's mission of countering digital authoritarianism worldwide, particularly in response to China's sophisticated censorship apparatus and other authoritarian regimes' information controls.
Trump's interim Social Security chief has threatened to shut down the agency's IT systems, potentially halting payments to 71 million Americans, if Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cannot access non-anonymized personal data of Social Security recipients. This threat comes after a judge issued a restraining order barring DOGE from accessing personally identifiable information due to privacy law violations.
President Trump signed an executive order consolidating federal IT contracting under the General Services Administration, giving GSA authority over all governmentwide acquisition contracts for IT within 30 days. The order aims to eliminate waste and duplication in federal procurement, allowing agencies to focus on their core missions.
President Trump has signed an executive order directing state and local authorities to take a more active role in disaster preparedness, while suggesting the possibility of dismantling FEMA. The order creates a "National Resilience Strategy" aimed at simplifying federal policies on disaster response, though emergency management experts argue that states already handle disasters but rely heavily on federal resources and funding that they cannot replace on their own.
President Trump denied signing a proclamation invoking the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan migrants, claiming "other people handled it" despite the document appearing in the Federal Register with his signature. The White House later claimed Trump was referring to the original 1798 law, while Judge Boasberg expressed concerns about the administration's actions and vowed to investigate whether officials violated his orders temporarily blocking deportations.
President Trump signed an executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, firing half its workforce on March 11 and mandating its closure on March 20, 2025. While the president cannot completely abolish the department through executive order alone, the administration plans to significantly reduce its size to administer only "critical functions" while returning many responsibilities to the states.
The U.S. government has closed the main Canadian access to the Stanstead, Quebec library, an iconic building that straddles both borders, ending over 100 years of open access without going through official customs. The Haskell Free Library and Opera House, built in 1904 and declared a heritage site on both sides of the border, has long been considered a symbol of harmony between Canada and the U.S., but this unilateral decision has prompted local officials to call a news conference to formally respond to what they describe as undermining "the spirit of cross-border collaboration.
U.S. Postal Service workers across the country are rallying against proposed cuts of 10,000 jobs, as announced by the Postmaster General in a letter to Congress. Unions are concerned about the potential privatization of the Postal Service and its impact on mail service and jobs. Local rallies are set in cities like Portland and Bangor, where union leaders fear significant negative effects on the community. NALC President Brian L. Renfroe emphasized the need for public support against the proposed cuts and privatization efforts.
A tourist from Wales was detained in the US for 19 days and deported in chains, with her parents describing her as "traumatised" after being transported in leg chains, waist chains, and handcuffs. Becky Burke, who was helping host families with housework in exchange for accommodation during her backpacking trip, was denied entry to Canada and subsequently detained by US authorities who may have suspected she violated the terms of her tourist visa.
President Trump signed an executive order invoking emergency powers to increase domestic mining and processing of minerals, including critical minerals, copper, and gold. Earthjustice Senior Legislative Representative Blaine Miller-McFeeley criticized the order as an effort to sell out public lands to industrial polluters, making it easier for mines to bypass environmental reviews.
The United States Postal Service has confirmed plans to lay off more than 10,000 employees as part of a cost-cutting measure in collaboration with Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Despite generating $78 billion annually, USPS continues to struggle financially due to mismanagement of retirement funds and labor compensation.
Canadian Jasmine Mooney was detained by ICE for two weeks after a border officer revoked her work visa, experiencing harsh conditions in detention facilities where she was held without explanation despite having legal representation and media attention. Her story highlights the systemic issues within immigration detention, where she witnessed numerous women with similar experiences trapped in a profit-driven system that offers little transparency or dignity to those detained.
Senate Republicans want Elon Musk to stop discussing Social Security, concerned that his comments calling it a "Ponzi scheme" and plans to cut Social Security Administration staff are politically damaging. GOP lawmakers fear these actions will negatively impact constituents and play into Democrats' hands during election season.
The Social Security Administration enacted a new policy that could overwhelm its field offices with millions of additional visitors, including freezing the Enumeration Beyond Entry program for non-citizens granted work authorization and newly naturalized U.S. citizens. This change, along with a new ID verification requirement, could result in up to 160,000 additional people visiting SSA field offices each week, potentially causing significant delays and service disruptions.
The UK and Germany have issued updated travel advisories for citizens traveling to the United States, warning of stricter enforcement of immigration rules and potential detention for those who violate entry regulations.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, directing Secretary Linda McMahon to facilitate its closure while returning education authority to the states. The order has sparked concerns about potential impacts on federal funding for schools, student loans, and civil rights enforcement in education.
Jose Adalberto Herrera, a 17-year-old immigrant in Maine, was detained by federal agents on his way to his first construction job after a traffic stop revealed his undocumented status. Despite having lived in the U.S. since age 12 and reuniting with his family, Herrera now faces deportation to El Salvador, prompting criticism of the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement policies.
The Social Security Administration will no longer allow beneficiaries to confirm their identity over the phone, requiring them to do so online or in person at a local office starting March 31, 2025, a move aimed at reducing fraud but criticized by AARP for potentially burdening older Americans, especially those with limited internet access or mobility issues.
The University of Maine System has confirmed compliance with President Trump's executive order barring transgender athletes from women's sports after a Title IX review by the USDA. The university system stated they do not permit male student-athletes to identify as female for NCAA eligibility or participate in women's sports.
The Trump administration has suspended coordinated efforts to counter Russian sabotage, disinformation, and cyberattacks, easing pressure on Moscow as it pushes Russia to end the war in Ukraine. Several U.S. national security agencies have halted their work on this initiative, which was established under the Biden administration to monitor Russia's escalating hybrid warfare campaign against Western nations.
VoteVets has launched a six-figure ad campaign targeting Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for firing thousands of veterans from federal agencies. The ad features veterans expressing frustration about losing their jobs due to ideological reasons rather than performance issues, with one veteran stating they didn't put their life on the line for "some tech bro billionaire from South Africa" to destroy the country.
"I am a commissioner at the Federal Trade Commission. The president just illegally fired me. This is corruption plain and simple. My full statement:"
House Democrats have demanded that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stop what they call "Orwellian book purges" in military schools, arguing it is unconstitutional to ban books for political reasons. The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) is reviewing materials in 161 schools serving military families to comply with Trump's anti-DEI executive orders, resulting in the removal of books, posters, and LGBTQ+ support materials.
President Donald Trump stated he was revoking Secret Service protection for Hunter and Ashley Biden, children of Joe Biden, effective immediately. Trump stated, "Hunter Biden has had Secret Service protection for an extended period of time, all paid for by the United States taxpayer." Trump mentioned that Ashley Biden has 13 agents assigned to her detail and that she too "will be taken off the list." Protection for immediate family members over 16 typically ends when a president leaves office, although both Trump and Biden previously extended protection for their children for six months.
Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service has been installed across the White House complex, with the system routed through a White House data center rather than physically placed at the location. The Trump administration officials stated that the service was donated by the company and vetted by ethics lawyers, though questions persist about potential conflicts of interest given Musk's role as an unpaid adviser to President Trump while controlling companies with regulatory matters before the federal government.
An internal Social Security Administration memo details proposed changes to the claims process that would significantly hinder the agency's operations, causing processing delays and preventing many Americans from applying for or receiving benefits. The memo, authored by Acting Deputy SSA Commissioner Doris Diaz, outlines plans to require internet identity verification for phone claims and in-person office visits for those unable to use online verification, despite anticipated challenges for vulnerable populations and potential legal scrutiny.
The private sector is showing increasing deference to Donald Trump's administration despite his narrow election victory and declining approval ratings. Major companies across media, technology, and other industries are dismantling DEI programs, making large inaugural donations, and accommodating Trump's agenda through actions that critics view as moral compromises rather than strategic pragmatism.
The text discusses concerns about the U.S. tsunami response system due to job and funding cuts to federal emergency programs. It highlights the potential risks of a major earthquake and tsunami in the Pacific Northwest, while detailing the challenges faced by NOAA's understaffed tsunami warning centers and the impact of recent layoffs on their operations.
The "Pardons" that Sleepy Joe Biden gave to the Unselect Committee of Political Thugs, and many others, are hereby declared VOID, VACANT, AND OF NO FURTHER FORCE OR EFFECT, because of the fact that they were done by Autopen. In other words, Joe Biden did not sign them but, more importantly, he did not know anything about them! The necessary Pardoning Documents were not explained to, or approved by, Biden. He knew nothing about them, and the people that did may have committed a crime. Therefore, those on the Unselect Committee, who destroyed and deleted ALL evidence obtained during their two year Witch Hunt of me, and many other innocent people, should fully understand that they are subject to investigation at the highest level. The fact is, they were probably responsible for the Documents that were signed on their behalf without the knowledge or consent of the Worst President in the History of our Country, Crooked Joe Biden!
The U.S. is withdrawing from the International Center for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, signaling a shift under the Trump administration away from Biden-era efforts to hold Vladimir Putin accountable for war crimes. This decision, coupled with reduced support for Ukraine's war crimes investigations, reflects a broader policy change aimed at restoring ties with Moscow and pursuing a swift peace deal.
The article discusses how the Trump administration has escalated its challenge to constitutional limits by defying federal court orders regarding deportations and claiming unlimited executive power. It details specific instances where immigration authorities ignored judicial directives, including the deportation of a kidney transplant specialist and Venezuelan migrants, while also highlighting Trump's attempt to void Biden's pardons of January 6 committee members.
Black Saturday, March 15, 2025, marked the moment when the United States ceased to function as a constitutional democracy as a sitting president openly defied a federal court order without consequences. This unprecedented defiance exposed the judiciary as powerless against an executive branch that decided it could ignore legal rulings, demonstrating how democratic systems collapse through the normalization of such defiance. The groundwork for this moment was laid through previous failures to hold the president accountable, including failed impeachments, stalled criminal cases, and the Supreme Court's expansion of presidential immunity to the point where the office became functionally above the law. According to the article, this event represents not just a crisis in democracy but its actual collapse, as the constitutional system of checks and balances has fundamentally failed with no meaningful mechanism left to constrain executive power.
Dr. Rasha Alawieh, a Lebanese kidney transplant specialist and Brown University professor with a valid visa, was deported from the United States despite a court order temporarily blocking her expulsion. Customs and Border Protection officers detained her at Boston Logan International Airport for 36 hours before putting her on a flight to Paris, apparently in defiance of Judge Leo T. Sorokin's order requiring 48 hours' notice before deportation.
Nova Scotia folk duo Cassie and Maggie MacDonald were questioned by state troopers while touring in the US, where they were asked which country they preferred between Canada and America. The incident highlights growing tensions amid President Trump's tariff war, accusations of Canada being a source of fentanyl, and comments about making Canada the 51st state.
The article describes how Trump's mass deportation efforts have expanded to include immigrants with pending legal status applications, including those married to US citizens. Bradley Bartell, a Trump voter, is shocked after his Peruvian wife Camila Muñoz was detained by ICE at an airport despite their ongoing green card application process, along with several other non-criminal immigrants in similar situations.
The Trump administration ignored a federal judge's order to turn back two deportation flights of alleged Venezuelan gang members on Saturday, March 15, 2025, claiming the planes were over international waters when the ruling came and therefore it didn't apply. This unprecedented defiance of a court order has been described as the start of a "true constitutional crisis" by critics, while the White House welcomes the legal fight and believes it will win at the Supreme Court. The administration's decision to proceed with the deportations was orchestrated by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and Homeland Security Secretary Kristy Noem, who acted on advice from administration lawyers that the judge's ruling was not applicable over international waters. El Salvador President Nayib Bukele mockingly celebrated the arrival of the deportees with a social media post saying "Oopsie... too late" with a laughing emoji, which was retweeted by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
NIH officials have reportedly instructed scientists to remove all references to mRNA vaccine technology from grant applications, suggesting the Trump administration may abandon this field of medical research despite its role in saving millions of lives during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scientists are expressing concerns about potential funding cuts to mRNA research, attributing this shift to political pressure from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose anti-vaccine stance has already affected other research areas and created a climate of fear among vaccine scientists.
The US deported hundreds of Venezuelans to El Salvador despite a federal judge ordering a halt to the deportations, with El Salvador's President Bukele confirming the arrival of 238 alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua and 23 members of MS-13. The deportations were carried out under Trump's invocation of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, which allows for deportation without due process of individuals deemed threats to national security. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio thanked Bukele for accepting the deportees, calling him "the strongest security leader in our region," while Bukele indicated the detainees would be held in El Salvador's Terrorism Confinement Center for at least a year.
Canadian entrepreneur Jasmine Mooney returned to Vancouver after being detained for 12 days in U.S. immigration detention centers following her attempt to apply for a visa at the U.S.-Mexico border. Despite being released, Mooney stated she was never informed about the reasons for her detention, crediting her release to the efforts of friends, family, and media attention.
The webpage describes a March 14, 2025 visit by Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) representatives and FBI agents to the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), where they were turned away after being informed of USIP's independent status. The press release emphasizes USIP's commitment to cooperation with the Trump administration while maintaining its status as a non-executive branch agency.
US fighter jets conducted air raids across Yemen, killing at least 32 people including children and injuring 101 others, according to the Houthi-run Health Ministry. The strikes, ordered by President Trump who threatened "overwhelming lethal force" against the Houthis, targeted multiple provinces after the group threatened to resume attacks on Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea over Israel's Gaza blockade.
A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration from using the Alien Enemies Act to deport five Venezuelans, implementing a temporary restraining order for 14 days. Judge James E. Boasberg noted that the ruling was to preserve the status quo amid concerns about the emergency powers invoked under the act. The Trump administration appealed the restraining order, arguing it would hinder presidential power before the act was officially announced. Litigation over the Alien Enemies Act raises concerns due to its previous use only during wartime, requiring a formal declaration of war.
The poll by Data For Progress reveals that only 10% of Americans support increasing federal funding for cryptocurrency and blockchain development, with 45% favoring decreased funding. Additionally, 51% of likely U.S. voters oppose the Trump administration's proposed strategic crypto reserve, while 34% support it, showing a partisan divide with Republicans narrowly supporting (41-40%) and Democrats strongly opposing (59-29%) the initiative.
Trump administration workforce cuts at federal agencies overseeing U.S. dams are threatening their ability to provide reliable electricity, supply farmers with water, and protect communities from floods. Critics warn that the reduction of nearly 400 workers at the Bureau of Reclamation and potential layoffs at other agencies could put public safety at risk and negatively impact water delivery systems.
President Donald Trump's administration has made deep cuts to Voice of America and other US-funded media organizations, placing virtually all 1,300 VOA employees on paid administrative leave. The U.S. Agency for Global Media, which houses these organizations, has also terminated grants to Radio Free Asia and other programming that collectively reach an estimated 427 million people worldwide.
The article discusses concerns about the Trump administration potentially damaging the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, highlighting tensions such as Tulsi Gabbard's controversial statements as Director of National Intelligence and threats to eject Canada from the pact. Despite these issues, intelligence sharing continues normally for now, though experts worry about disruption due to Trump's politicization of intelligence agencies and bureaucratic turmoil.
The US launched air strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen on March 15, 2025, with President Trump warning that "hell will rain down upon" the Iran-backed group if they continue to attack shipping in the Red Sea. Trump also warned Iran to immediately halt its support for the militant group, threatening accountability if they continue to threaten American people or shipping lanes.
The US Agency for Global Media has initiated measures to eliminate non-statutory components and functions in compliance with President Trump's Executive Order to reduce the federal bureaucracy. Senior Advisor Kari Lake announced the cancellation of an expensive 15-year lease and outlined plans to drastically downsize the agency, citing issues such as national security violations, self-dealing, and wasteful spending.
The article reports that TSA bomb-sniffing K-9 units have become victims of Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts, with funding for veterinary visits, kenneling, and dog food put on hold according to an email sent to TSA workers. This occurred on the same day President Trump celebrated National K-9 Veterans Day by sharing a photo of himself with Conan, a military dog who participated in the operation against ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in 2019.
The Mauna Loa Observatory, which has tracked atmospheric carbon dioxide levels since 1958, may face closure due to potential federal cuts under the Trump administration. The Hilo office supporting the observatory is among 34 NOAA facilities flagged for possible lease cancellation, threatening the continuation of crucial climate data collection that has documented CO2 levels rising from 315 ppm in the 1960s to over 420 ppm today.
The Trump administration is considering a new travel ban targeting citizens from up to 43 countries. The draft proposal categorizes countries into three tiers: a "red" list of 11 countries facing a complete travel ban, an "orange" list of 10 countries with significant visa restrictions, and a "yellow" list of 22 countries given 60 days to address security concerns.
Johns Hopkins University announced it will cut over 2,000 jobs due to an $800 million funding loss from USAID amid the Trump administration's efforts to downsize the federal government. The layoffs include 1,975 international positions across 44 countries and 247 U.S. jobs, mostly in Baltimore.
Efficiency Maine Trust has lost access to approximately $15 million in federal funding that would have doubled its capacity to draw private capital for energy efficiency and clean energy programs. The funding loss is part of the Trump administration's efforts to cancel $20 billion in grants authorized by the Inflation Reduction Act, affecting more than two dozen nonprofit groups and agencies across the U.S.
The open letter from Big Law associates calls for law firms to defend their colleagues against Trump's actions targeting Perkins Coie and Covington & Burling, which they describe as attempts to bully firms out of challenging the administration. The letter had gathered about 280 anonymous signatures from associates across the Am Law 200 as of March 14, 2025, with signatories identifying themselves by firm and class year rather than by name.
Federal workers are returning to offices following President Trump's "return to office" memorandum, but custodial staff shortages have led to deteriorating conditions in federal buildings. Reports indicate overflowing trash cans, clogged sinks, pest problems, and lack of basic supplies in workspaces and bathrooms.
The Trump administration is preparing to significantly reduce the Department of Health and Human Services workforce, with an announcement expected soon. Under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the administration plans agency-wide cuts targeting multiple departments including the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (potentially reducing staff from 180 to 30) and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
The Social Security Administration is considering a policy change that would ban payments to people without Social Security numbers, potentially affecting 170,000 beneficiaries. This move would impact vulnerable groups including disabled children of immigrants and widows of Americans living overseas, as it targets representative payees who manage benefits on behalf of eligible recipients.
Trump's imposition of tariffs has created economic uncertainty, leading to a market correction with the S&P 500 falling 10.1% from its peak and the Nasdaq Composite dropping 14.2% from its record. Despite Trump and his advisers acknowledging the falling stock market, they remain committed to their policies, framing it as a necessary "transition" period for rebuilding the country. Economic indicators show troubling signs, including the NFIB Uncertainty Index reaching its second-highest level ever in February and a significant drop in CEO confidence about revenue growth. The administration's budget challenges persist, with Republicans abandoning efforts to negotiate a new budget and the February deficit reaching $308 billion, $11 billion higher than the same period last year. Markdown version of heavily paywalled story in summpementary-files.
CISA, the US government's cyber defense agency, is facing severe challenges due to mass layoffs, weak leadership, and new restrictions from the Trump administration. The agency has lost between 300 and 400 staffers, including key employees, straining its workforce and undermining its ability to protect America from cyber threats. International partnerships have been strained, vital programs have been gutted, and employees are demoralized and afraid to discuss certain topics, all of which could have significant consequences for national security and economic prospects.
A Canadian woman named Jasmine was detained by ICE after her consulting visa was denied at the San Ysidro border crossing. She was held at Otay Mesa Detention Center before being transferred to San Luis Detention Center in Arizona, where conditions are reportedly poor. Her family has limited communication with her and is working with the Canadian Consulate and a lawyer to secure her release.
The Trump administration is implementing another round of job cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), with plans to lay off 10% of its current workforce, amounting to 1,029 positions. These cuts follow earlier rounds of firings and retirements, resulting in NOAA eliminating about one in four jobs since Trump took office in January.
Democrats on the House Oversight Committee have sent multiple requests to federal agencies seeking information about the use of AI software amid concerns over Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) accessing sensitive data. The requests focus on ensuring AI usage is legal, protecting Americans' private data, and investigating whether Musk could benefit financially from access to government data.
The Trump administration, under E.P.A. administrator Lee Zeldin, announced plans to repeal numerous environmental regulations, aiming to lower costs for businesses and consumers by easing restrictions on pollution and energy production. These changes include revising or eliminating limits on emissions, protections for wetlands, and the legal basis for regulating greenhouse gases, sparking criticism from Democrats and environmental groups who argue it abandons the E.P.A.'s mission to protect public health and the environment.
The Trump administration announced plans to repeal numerous environmental regulations, including limits on pollution and protections for wetlands, while redefining the EPA's mission to focus on lowering costs rather than protecting the environment. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin outlined intentions to unwind over two dozen air and water pollution protections, eliminate enforcement efforts prioritizing poor and minority communities, and reconsider the legal basis for regulating greenhouse gases. The moves, described as "the largest deregulatory announcement in U.S. history," were met with criticism from Democrats and environmental activists who accused the administration of abandoning the EPA's responsibility to protect human health and the environment.
A recording obtained by ProPublica reveals acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek expressing concerns about the agency's stability under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the Trump administration's agenda. Dudek admits to making tough choices he doesn't agree with, citing pressure from the president and DOGE, while also downplaying Trump's claims of Social Security fraud.
The Social Security Administration is considering ending telephone service for claims processing and direct-deposit transactions under pressure from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team, which would force elderly and disabled Americans to use the internet or visit field offices instead. This proposed change comes amid DOGE's push to cut staff by over 12% and false claims by Elon Musk about fraud involving impossibly old beneficiaries, despite agency staff explaining these were record-keeping artifacts rather than actual fraud.
The US State Department has suspended processing of passport applications with "X" gender markers, requiring applicants to provide evidence of their biological sex assigned at birth. This policy change effectively denies some US citizens the ability to obtain passports and travel internationally without legal basis.
President Trump's tariffs targeting Canada, Mexico, and China have sparked a global "Boycott USA" consumer backlash, with significant pushback coming from EU countries and Canada where social media groups dedicated to boycotting American products have gained thousands of members.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the termination of $20 billion in climate grants issued by the Biden administration under the Inflation Reduction Act, citing concerns about program integrity, award process issues, and alleged fraud. This decision comes one day before a federal judge is scheduled to hear a lawsuit from one of the grant recipients seeking access to funds that were frozen in a Citibank account while the Trump administration investigated the program.
U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin has announced a campaign encouraging Americans to file Freedom of Information Act requests to access their personal data held by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and Elon Musk, following a District Court ruling that DOGE must comply with such requests. Raskin is providing a fillable Privacy Act request form through his website and social media, asserting that since DOGE has claimed status as a legitimate government agency in court cases, it is now obligated to fulfill citizen demands for access to their personal information under federal privacy laws.
The Trump administration is reducing the size of the Justice Department's Public Integrity Section, which oversees prosecutions of public officials accused of corruption. Only about six employees will remain in the office that previously handled all federal public corruption cases nationwide.
Los Angeles County has confirmed its first measles case in a resident who returned from an international trip on March 5. Health officials have identified several exposure locations including LAX, Cloud 9 Nail Salon in North Hollywood, and Superior Grocery in El Monte. Public health authorities advise those who may have been exposed to check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a characteristic rash that typically starts on the face.
The article discusses the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian immigrant with a green card who was involved in protests at Columbia University. The Trump administration is accused of violating First Amendment rights by detaining him without criminal charges, claiming he "led activities aligned to Hamas," which raises concerns about political targeting and could have broader implications for free speech in America.
The Pentagon is considering significant cuts to programs that secure loose nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons, with potential reductions of up to 75% of workers who prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction. According to documents obtained by WIRED, these cuts could severely impact global security efforts, including pandemic surveillance, counter-extremism programs, and initiatives to prevent the development and proliferation of WMDs.
The Federal Aviation Administration will implement permanent restrictions on helicopter traffic near Reagan National Airport following a deadly January 29 collision between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter that killed 67 people. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced these changes based on NTSB recommendations after data revealed thousands of instances of close proximity between aircraft and helicopters in the area, with monthly emergency alerts to pilots to avoid collisions.
This article discusses how the Trump administration's cutbacks to global health institutions like USAID, WHO, and CDC are severely undermining America's ability to detect and respond to infectious disease outbreaks worldwide. The author, a physician who survived Ebola, warns that these "slash-and-burn" policies have rapidly transformed the US from a global health leader into an "untrustworthy has-been," leaving both America and the world more vulnerable to future pandemics.
President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he will label violence against Tesla dealerships domestic terrorism as he appeared with Tesla CEO Elon Musk to show support amid recent "Tesla Takedown" protests and the slump in the company's stock price.
House Republicans are moving to block Democrats from forcing a politically difficult vote on Donald Trump's tariffs as the president escalates the US trade war with Canada by increasing steel and aluminum tariffs to 50%. The legislative provision, included in a rule governing floor debate on a government funding bill, would prevent a vote terminating the national emergency Trump used to impose tariffs without congressional approval.
A whistleblower testified that plans to dismantle the CFPB were still in progress, contradicting the Justice Department's narrative. A judge expressed concern and sought ways to preserve the agency amid litigation over its potential dismantling.
Congressman Tom Cole has successfully worked with the Administration to prevent the termination of leases for the National Weather Center in Norman, the Social Security Administration Office in Lawton, and the Indian Health Services Office in Oklahoma City. Cole expresses pride in advocating for these facilities which provide vital services to Oklahomans and reaffirms his commitment to fighting for his constituents.
In a post on Truth Social, president Donald Trump confirmed the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent Palestinian activist and permanent US resident with a green card. “This is the first arrest of many to come,” Trump said. The president said Ice took Khalil into custody after his executive order and claimed, without evidence, that similar activists on college campuses are paid agitators, not students.
The Trump administration is repurposing the CBP One app (now called CBP Home) to allow undocumented migrants to "self-deport" by submitting an "intent to depart" through the application, which officials say may give them an opportunity to return legally in the future. This initiative is part of the administration's broader immigration strategy that includes creating a national registry for undocumented migrants, pausing parole programs, and launching a $200 million ad campaign urging migrants to "stay out and leave now."
The USDA has cut over $1 billion in funding for two programs that helped schools and food banks purchase food from local farms and ranches. The $660 million Local Food for Schools program for 2025 and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program, which would have provided about $500 million to support food banks, have been eliminated by the Trump administration as part of efforts to reduce federal government spending.
The article discusses Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial comments suggesting that poor diet and lack of exercise may be to blame for a Texas child's death from measles. Kennedy's remarks sparked significant backlash on social media, with critics condemning his suggestion that "measles is very difficult to kill a healthy person" and his implication that the child who died may have suffered from malnutrition.
The Trump administration has offered voluntary separation payments of up to $25,000 to approximately 80,000 federal workers at the Health and Human Services Department, with a response deadline of 5 p.m. Friday. This effort to reduce the federal workforce comes as HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has indicated plans for deep staff cuts, while the CDC is simultaneously handling a measles outbreak in West Texas and New Mexico, and Congress debates significant Medicaid reductions.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) faces significant challenges, including workforce reductions and potential interference from Elon Musk's SpaceX. The agency is experiencing depleted staff and low morale following a deadly air disaster, early retirement offers, and the introduction of SpaceX's Starlink technology into its communications network.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is deploying a chatbot called GSAi to replace fired workers at the US General Services Administration. The chatbot, described by one employee as "about as good as an intern," has limited functionality and significant restrictions on handling sensitive information, raising questions about its effectiveness as a replacement for the hundreds of terminated domain experts and civil servants.
Maxar Technologies has restricted Ukraine's access to satellite imagery following a broader US intelligence-sharing pause with Ukraine. The restriction was reportedly imposed under an order from the Trump administration as part of efforts to pressure Ukraine into peace talks with Russia.
The Social Security Administration Data Operations Center in Plains Twp. is the only facility of its kind in the country, handling over 1.23 million customer service calls between October and January to assist people with Social Security benefits. The center was briefly listed as one of 433 "non-core assets" the government wanted to sell before the list was removed from the General Services Administration's website.
The text discusses how US foreign aid cuts combined with the reimposition of the "Mexico City Policy" are negatively impacting women's health services globally, particularly in conflict zones. By the end of the current aid freeze on April 15, 2025, an estimated 11.7 million women and girls worldwide will lose access to contraceptives, while the policy forces healthcare organizations to choose between accepting US funding with abortion-related restrictions or forfeiting support entirely.
Groups representing "startup nations" are drafting legislation to create deregulated "freedom cities" in the US, with Próspera representatives meeting Trump officials who have been reportedly receptive to the idea. The proposed cities would operate free from certain federal regulations, allowing accelerated development in areas like anti-aging clinical trials, nuclear reactor startups, and building construction without prior approval from agencies like the FDA and EPA.
Joshua Stanton, FEMA's Acting Chief Counsel, was placed on administrative leave after less than one week in the role, reportedly after refusing to write a memo justifying the seizure of $80 million from New York City meant for migrant shelters. This situation may be connected to a lawsuit filed by former FEMA Chief Financial Officer Mary Comans, who is suing the agency for allegedly unlawful termination related to her authorization of funds for migrant housing.
The Social Security Administration has implemented a new policy in Maine requiring parents to visit a Social Security office in person to register their newborns for Social Security numbers, eliminating the previous "Enumeration at Birth" program that allowed parents to complete this process via a simple form at the hospital. This change has been criticized by pediatric health advocates as burdensome and unnecessary, forcing families with newborns to travel to one of Maine's eight Social Security offices instead of using the efficient system that had been in place since the late 1980s.
The Social Security Administration has implemented new internet restrictions that block employees from accessing "general news" websites including WIRED, The Washington Post, and The New York Times, with the changes coming weeks after DOGE engineers were installed at the agency and amid plans to cut 7,000 employees. The restrictions were announced in an email to all SSA employees on March 6, 2025, stating that effective immediately, categories of prohibited websites include online shopping, general news, and sports, though the criteria for blocking specific sites remains unclear.
Layoffs in the U.S. surged by 245% in February 2025, with federal government cuts accounting for a significant portion, driven by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiatives under President Donald Trump's administration. These cuts impacted both government employees and contractors, with Washington D.C. experiencing the highest job losses, while concerns over trade wars and funding freezes added further strain to the labor market.
The Pentagon has flagged over 26,000 images for removal as part of a directive to purge content related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), following an executive order by former President Trump. The removals target milestones involving women and minorities, historical content like the Tuskegee Airmen, and even images flagged due to file names containing words like "gay," highlighting confusion and challenges in implementing the directive.
China has warned the US it is ready to fight "any type" of war after hitting back against President Donald Trump's mounting trade tariffs, with tensions escalating as Trump slapped more tariffs on all Chinese goods and China retaliated with 10-15% tariffs on US farm products. The Chinese embassy's statement on X represents some of the strongest rhetoric from China since Trump became president, coinciding with China's announcement of a 7.2% increase in defense spending during the annual National People's Congress in Beijing.
Almost 4,000 campsites across California's 18 national forests could close for part or all of the summer season due to federal government staff reductions and budget freezes that have led to severe staffing shortages. The closures follow terminations of at least 2,000 employees by the Department of Government Efficiency, which has resulted in reduced capacity to maintain facilities, respond to emergencies, conduct scientific research, and manage wildfire risks.
Elon Musk suggested privatizing the U.S. Postal Service and Amtrak during a virtual appearance at a technology conference. President Trump has previously floated the idea of privatizing the USPS and is considering folding it into the Commerce Department.
The article discusses speculation that the Trump administration may be intentionally engineering a recession to set the stage for economic policy changes. It suggests this strategy aims to trigger Fed rate cuts, weaken the U.S. dollar, and create conditions for future growth through tax cuts and deregulation.
a group of archivists has recreated the original CDC website and is hoting it in the EU.
The Senate confirmed Todd Blanche, President Trump's former criminal defense attorney, as Deputy Attorney General in a 52-46 mostly party-line vote on March 5, 2025. Blanche, who previously defended Trump against multiple indictments including the New York hush money case, will now oversee federal law enforcement agencies including the FBI, DEA, and ATF while serving as second-in-command to Attorney General Pam Bondi.
The text discusses the current state of bird flu in the US, highlighting its spread among poultry, dairy herds, and humans. It also criticizes the Trump administration's response, arguing that their policies are exacerbating the risk of a potential pandemic by weakening surveillance, research, and public health measures.
The Department of Veterans Affairs plans to cut 80,000 jobs in an "aggressive" reorganization, aiming to return to 2019 staffing levels of under 400,000 employees. Democrats have criticized the cuts, while Republicans have cautiously observed the Trump administration's changes to the VA and other agencies.
The Trump administration temporarily exempted the auto sector from tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports for one month, offering relief to automakers while maintaining broader tariffs on other imports. The move highlights the uncertainty surrounding Trump's trade policies, with potential economic impacts and market volatility tied to tariff announcements.
The Trump administration is reopening the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, Texas for migrant families facing deportation, resuming the practice of detaining children four years after the Biden administration ended it. CoreCivic, the private prison contractor operating the facility, announced an agreement with ICE to reopen the center with capacity for 2,400 people, expecting annual revenue of $180 million including medical services.
The Supreme Court issued a brief order requiring the government to pay foreign aid contractors up to $2 billion for completed work, leaving in place a lower court decision that forbade the Trump administration from suspending foreign-assistance funds. The case, known as Department of State v. AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition, was decided in a 5-4 vote, with the majority citing a mistake by Trump's legal team in appealing the wrong lower court order.
The Trump administration has proposed a new policy requiring applicants for US citizenship, green cards, asylum, or refugee status to disclose their social media handles as part of enhanced vetting procedures. This policy, which would affect over 3.5 million people according to USCIS estimates, is being implemented to comply with Trump's executive order on national security screening of immigrants.
Maine's congressional delegation, including Senator Angus King and Representative Chellie Pingree, is urging the Trump administration to restore $4.5 million in funding for the Maine Sea Grant program, which has been cut by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The funding termination is seen as a significant blow to Maine's coastal economy and marine industries, with concerns that the decision may be politically motivated following a dispute between President Trump and Maine's governor over transgender athlete policies.
The Dow fell by almost 600 points as President Trump's tariffs on Canada and Mexico threatened a dangerous trade war, erasing all stock market gains since his presidency began. Global markets reacted negatively, with trading partners announcing retaliatory tariffs, while economists warned of potential economic consequences similar to the Great Depression.
President Trump seeks to put 443 federal properties up for sale. Properties include HHS and HUD headquarters in D.C.
Ontario will impose a 25% tariff on power exported to 1.5 million homes in Minnesota, Michigan and New York in response to U.S. tariffs, as announced by Premier Doug Ford. The province has also banned U.S. companies from government contracts and ended its deal with Starlink.
Some staffers at Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are drawing six-figure salaries from federal agencies they are tasked with cutting, with some making up to $195,200 annually[1]. Despite Musk's initial claim of zero compensation, DOGE's budget has grown to around $40 million, raising questions about transparency and potential conflicts of interest in the organization's operations.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has deleted billions in claimed savings from its "wall of receipts" due to numerous errors and inaccuracies. The group's total claimed savings from cutting contracts has declined from $16 billion to less than $9 billion, raising questions about DOGE's competence and understanding of federal government operations.
The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 to weaken federal limitations on raw sewage discharge into bodies of water, effectively allowing cities to dump more sewage into rivers, lakes, oceans, and bays. The majority opinion, written by Justice Samuel Alito, reinterpreted the Clean Water Act to no longer require that water actually be clean, as long as cities attempt to keep their water safe.
Target warns of imminent price increases due to tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China. The company expects these price hikes to occur "over the next couple of days" despite posting better-than-expected fourth quarter earnings.
The International Chamber of Commerce warns that the world economy risks a crash similar to the Great Depression unless the U.S. reverses its plans for steep import tariffs, with ICC Deputy Secretary-General Andrew Wilson describing the situation as a potential "downward spiral" into "1930s trade-war territory." Wilson considers the likelihood of a severe economic blow "a coin-flip" dependent on whether the U.S. reconsiders its tariff strategy, as President Trump has already implemented 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, increased duties on Chinese goods, and promised similar measures for European products, despite economists' warnings about potential domestic inflation.
President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing national security concerns related to illegal immigration and drug trafficking. The tariffs include 25% duties on most Canadian and Mexican goods, with a 10% tariff on Canadian energy products, and a 10% tariff on Chinese imports.
The Pentagon is set to significantly reduce its Civilian Protection Center of Excellence, which focuses on minimizing civilian casualties in military operations, with about half of the office's workforce being offered buyouts or termination as part of the Trump administration's broader effort to scale back civilian harm protections in favor of military "lethality." This shift, which includes granting commanders more authority to approve strikes without higher-level authorization, has drawn criticism from human rights advocates and Democratic lawmakers who argue these changes undermine systems designed to limit civilian casualties and could ultimately harm U.S. national security interests.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that all federal funding will stop for colleges and schools that allow "illegal" protests and that agitators will be imprisoned or sent back to the country they came from. "American students will be permanently expelled or, depending on the crime, arrested," Trump said in a Truth Social post.
The Trump administration has shut down a global air quality monitoring program that had been operating at 80 U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide since 2008, citing budget constraints. The program provided valuable public data about pollution levels in cities like New Delhi, Jakarta, and Buenos Aires, which supported research, helped foreign service officers make health decisions, and led to air quality improvements in countries like China.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to significantly increase military spending across the EU, unveiling a 'ReArm Europe' plan that could mobilize up to €800 billion for defense. The plan includes easing restrictions on overspending, offering €150 billion in loans for arms purchases, and allowing member states to repurpose EU funds for defense investments.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, is moving to cancel leases on key NOAA facilities, including the NOAA Center for Weather and Climate Prediction and the Radar Operations Center, which are critical for weather forecasting and radar maintenance. These actions, combined with recent layoffs and budget cuts, have raised concerns about the agency's ability to fulfill its mission, potentially leading to significant gaps in weather forecasting and climate research.
The Trump administration is terminating dozens of technology specialists from the General Services Administration's 18F unit, which developed software and technology products to improve efficiency across federal agencies. The decision, directed by top leadership and implemented by Thomas Shedd, a former Tesla engineer, has resulted in employees being placed on administrative leave until their official release at the end of April.
The Trump administration has suspended the use of costly military aircraft for deportation flights. The decision follows reporting by the Wall Street Journal that revealed these flights were inefficient and expensive compared to traditional civilian deportation methods.
Rep. Gabe Vasquez expresses concern over potential closure of the Skeen-Whitlock Building, which houses the Department of Energy's Carlsbad Field Office crucial for Waste Isolation Pilot Plant operations. He highlights risks to national security and environmental safety, citing staff reductions and project delays, while requesting urgent meetings with GSA and DOE officials to address the issue.
The State Department launched an AI-powered "Catch and Revoke" program to cancel visas of foreign nationals appearing to support Hamas or other designated terror groups. This initiative involves AI-assisted reviews of student visa holders' social media accounts and has resulted in the arrest of pro-Palestinian activists, sparking concerns about immigrants' free speech rights.
James Dennehy, head of the FBI's New York Field Office, was forced to retire after criticizing the Trump administration's request for names of agents who worked on January 6 cases. Dennehy had urged colleagues to "dig in" against the administration's actions, leading to his ouster one month later.
The story discusses a series of breaking news events, including the tragic death of a 75-year-old man allegedly assaulted by three teenage girls, and significant developments in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. It highlights Ukraine's recent attack on a Russian oil refinery coinciding with President Zelensky's return from diplomatic efforts in the US and Europe, amidst a backdrop of strained relations with US President Donald Trump regarding military support and peace negotiations.
The Trump administration has suspended delivery of all US military aid to Ukraine, affecting ammunition, vehicles, and other equipment including weapons in transit. This decision comes after a confrontation between Trump and Zelenskyy, with Trump telling the Ukrainian president to return "when he is ready for peace" and expressing frustration at Zelenskyy's statement that the end of the war could be "very, very far away".
The White House is exploring options for easing sanctions on Russia as part of efforts to improve diplomatic relations and potentially end the war in Ukraine. This initiative involves drafting proposals by the State and Treasury departments, though it remains unclear what concessions the U.S. might seek in return for any sanctions relief.
The Trump administration laid off approximately 90 employees from the General Services Administration's 18F team, a group formed during the Obama era to modernize government software. The layoffs, part of a broader effort to reduce the federal workforce, have jeopardized ongoing projects and completed services, potentially impacting millions of Americans who rely on these digital services.
FAA officials ordered staff to find tens of millions of dollars for a Starlink deal, despite no official contract yet. Elon Musk, leading Trump's Department of Government Efficiency, oversaw mass firings at the FAA while his company SpaceX stands to benefit from potential contracts, raising conflict of interest concerns.
The Trump administration's hasty mass firings through the DOGE Service led to a crisis at the National Nuclear Security Administration, where 17% of workers maintaining America's nuclear weapons were dismissed despite their critical security roles, forcing an embarrassing reversal after panicked calls from lawmakers of both parties. The incident highlighted the dangers of applying Silicon Valley's "move fast and break things" approach to government agencies with serious national security missions, as the novice cost-cutters appeared to lack basic understanding of the nuclear agency's work, resulting in chaos that potentially compromised safety at sensitive nuclear facilities across the country.
The U.S. Department of Defense is terminating numerous grants under the Minerva Research Initiative, a program established in 2008 to fund social science research related to national security. The initiative, which has supported studies on topics like violent extremism, disinformation, and climate change threats, is being significantly reduced, with at least 9 projects from the latest funding round and over a dozen from previous rounds receiving termination notices.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick plans to remove government spending from GDP calculations, claiming to make economic data more transparent. Economists warn this change could increase volatility in GDP figures and complicate comparisons with other countries' economies.
The post describes frustration with accessing public earthquake information due to limited USGS map functionality. It suggests this is caused by staff shortages and efforts to update geographic names, implying these changes are politically motivated.
A DOGE staffer named Jordan Wick has been publicly posting DOGE work on GitHub, including a Twitter DM-downloading tool and geospatial data related to undersea cables, ports, and critical minerals. In February 2024, Wick uploaded code for an organizational chart viewer with fields for employee union status and satisfaction ratings, as well as a search tool allowing users to filter federal employees by office and union status. Wick's company AccelerateX, co-founded with fellow DOGE member Anthony Jansco, sells AI efficiency systems to the federal government and claims to have large transit agency clients. Following public attention to his GitHub activities, Wick's GitHub account is no longer publicly accessible.
DOGE's savings page updated its claims, fixing previous errors but introducing new inaccuracies. The Department of Government Efficiency's digital "wall of receipts" now claims $65 billion in savings, but an NPR review found discrepancies in the data and inflated estimates.
The General Services Administration (GSA) has eliminated 18F, a government tech consultancy team of approximately 90 employees that helped other agencies with technology projects. The office was deemed "non-critical" as part of GSA's reduction in force (RIF) under White House direction, with Thomas Shedd, director of GSA's Technology Transformation Services, notifying staff of the decision early Saturday morning.
US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has reversed his stance on the measles outbreak, now declaring it a "top priority" after initially dismissing it as "not unusual," following the first US measles death in a decade. The health department is sending 2,000 doses of the MMR vaccine to Texas, where over 140 cases have been reported since January, with approximately 95% of infected individuals being unvaccinated.
Norwegian petroleum giant Haltbakk Bunkers has announced it will stop providing fuel to all American forces in Norway, declaring "No fuel to Americans!" in response to Donald Trump's treatment of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. The company made this decision after witnessing what they called "the biggest s***show ever presented live on tv" during a meeting between Trump and Zelensky that ended in a heated exchange.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advocated for the MMR vaccine in response to a growing measles outbreak in Texas, despite his history of vaccine skepticism. At least 146 measles cases have been identified in Texas since January, including a fatal case of an unvaccinated school-aged child in Lubbock.
Melanie Krause, who took over as acting IRS commissioner on March 1, 2025, quickly indicated her willingness to explore compliance with the DHS request for information on undocumented immigrants. The article describes how the IRS initially rejected DHS requests for addresses of 700,000 people suspected of being in the country illegally, but Krause's acquiescence marked a potential shift in the agency's stance on sharing taxpayer information with immigration authorities.
The Trump administration abruptly terminated the Maine Sea Grant program, cutting $1.5 million in funding for 2025 and $4.5 million through January 2028. The decision affects 20 Sea Grant workers at the University of Maine and coastal ports, with NOAA stating the program's activities are "no longer relevant" to the administration's priorities. This move has shocked Maine's fishing industry, as the Sea Grant program has been instrumental in supporting coastal communities and sustainable fisheries for 50 years. The program's economic impact is significant, with advocates noting that in 2023, Maine Sea Grant's $1.5 million federal investment resulted in a $23.5 million economic benefit, translating to a return of $15.60 for every dollar spent. The termination comes amid broader cuts to NOAA and follows a public dispute between Maine Governor Janet Mills and President Trump over transgender athletes in sports. Industry leaders express concern about the impact on fishing communities, young fishermen training, and the long-term viability of Maine's coastal economies.
February 2025
Health officials in King County are urging caution after the first confirmed measles case in Washington state this year, involving an infant who may have exposed others at several locations following overseas travel. The highly contagious respiratory disease poses greatest risk to unvaccinated individuals, with health experts emphasizing that the MMR vaccine provides 97% protection after two doses while vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has rapidly infiltrated federal computer systems since Trump's second inauguration, gaining access to sensitive information across multiple agencies including OPM, USAID, Treasury, IRS, and CFPB. The secretive operation has resulted in thousands of layoffs targeting diversity programs, scientists, and various federal workers, creating an atmosphere of fear among government employees who view DOGE programmers as threats to their careers and agencies.
President Trump is planning to sign an executive order making English the official language of the United States for the first time in the nation's nearly 250-year history. The executive order will rescind a Clinton-era mandate that required federal agencies and recipients of federal funding to provide language assistance to non-English speakers. According to White House officials, agencies will still have flexibility to provide documents and services in languages other than English. The stated goals of making English the national language are to promote unity, establish efficiency in government, and provide a pathway to civic engagement. Trump has previously expressed concerns about languages entering the country, stating at CPAC last year that "We have languages coming into our country...that nobody in this country has ever heard of".
The court document details a case where the American Federation of Government Employees and other plaintiffs challenged the Office of Personnel Management's directive to terminate probationary federal employees across multiple agencies. Judge William Alsup ruled that OPM exceeded its statutory authority by ordering mass terminations, finding the directive was unlawful and issuing a temporary restraining order against OPM's actions affecting employees at NPS, BLM, VA, DOD, SBA, and FWS.
The Trump administration is implementing a new strategy requiring federal workers to provide weekly bullet-point descriptions of their work, with the second email expected to arrive Saturday from agency HR departments. This initiative will allow supervisors and agency heads to check whether employees' work aligns with Trump administration goals and priorities, and unlike the initial email from OPM that agencies advised workers not to respond to, these new agency-specific requests may be mandatory.
Federal workers across various government departments received late-night emails asking them to justify their work to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), overseen by Elon Musk, creating further anxiety among public-sector employees who have already experienced large-scale firings. The emails, with the subject line "What did you do last week? Part II," requested employees to provide approximately five bullet points describing their weekly accomplishments and copy their managers, with Musk and President Trump previously suggesting that non-responsive workers could face dismissal despite OPM's clarification that responses are voluntary.
The GDPNow model from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta provides a "nowcast" of real GDP growth based on available economic data for the current measured quarter, using methodology similar to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The latest estimate shows the U.S. economy is projected to contract by 1.5 percent in the first quarter of 2025, a significant decline from the previous estimate of 2.3 percent growth on February 19.
Google Maps will change the name of "Gulf of Mexico" to "Gulf of America" once it is officially updated in the U.S. Geographic Names System, Google said in an X post on Monday, January 27, 2025. The change will be visible in the U.S., but the name will remain "Gulf of Mexico" in Mexico. Outside of the two countries, users will see both names on Google Maps.
The article describes significant layoffs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), with approximately 800 probationary employees being cut, including staff at the National Weather Service. These cuts are occurring as climate change causes more intense weather extremes, threatening the agency's ability to provide accurate forecasts and warnings, with some offices already reducing services due to staffing shortages.
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine is facing potential mass layoffs of federal employees as part of the Department of Government Efficiency's efforts to reduce federal spending. Union leaders report that the shipyard, which employs around 6,000 federal workers, may see employees released by the end of the week, raising concerns about both worker livelihoods and national security implications.
The Social Security Administration plans to reduce its workforce from 57,000 to 50,000 employees, focusing cuts on non-mission critical functions while implementing organizational restructuring including reduction of regional offices from 10 to 4 and headquarters organizations to 7 Deputy Commissioner level units. The agency will offer voluntary separation options and potential reduction-in-force actions, aiming to prioritize customer service by streamlining management layers and reducing non-essential work.
Federal student loan borrowers are temporarily unable to apply for income-driven repayment plans due to a court ruling. The Education Department has closed applications for these plans, including SAVE, following a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.
President Donald Trump transported boxes of documents back to Florida that were previously seized by the FBI from Mar-a-Lago during a 2022 search, with Trump claiming "justice finally won out" and the White House describing them as personal items. The classified documents case against Trump was dropped after his 2024 election victory, though concerns remain about storage protocols at Mar-a-Lago where he allegedly kept classified materials in public areas including a ballroom and bathroom.
A federal judge in California granted a temporary restraining order against the Office of Personnel Management regarding the firing of federal probationary workers, ruling that the terminations were not legal because OPM lacked the authority to order them. The decision by Judge William Alsup of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California follows a similar ruling by the Merit Systems Protection Board that stayed the terminations of six probationary employees earlier that week.
West Virginia native Ellen Blackwood lost her dream job as a recreation fee technician at Acadia National Park after just two months when she was terminated on Valentine's Day as part of the Trump administration's federal workforce reduction plan. She was among 1,000 National Park Service employees fired under an initiative led by Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency, raising concerns about park maintenance, visitor safety, and the future of public lands.
The letter from Alaska Senate President Gary Stevens and House Speaker Bryce Edgmon to Alaska's congressional delegation expresses deep concern about federal actions threatening Alaska's economy, including potential job losses for federal workers, Medicaid/CHIP terminations, federal spending cuts, and freezes on energy infrastructure funding. They call for bipartisan action to address these issues, emphasizing that the state legislature cannot compensate for these federal funding reductions and requesting a unified approach with Alaska's governor to confront the crisis.
Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan have left Romania on a private jet bound for the US after their travel ban was lifted, though they remain under judicial supervision and must appear for court hearings. The self-styled "misogynist influencer" and his brother face trial on charges of rape, sex with a minor, people trafficking and money laundering, with allegations they used the "loverboy" method to force women into making pornography.
The discovery of approximately 20 dead geese on Ogunquit Beach in Maine is suspected to be due to avian flu (HPAI), with authorities ranking the risk level as "high" while continuing to monitor the situation. This follows a similar incident at Short Sands Beach in York where five dead ducks were found, and while transmission to humans is rare, the current H5N1 strain has caused 70 human cases in the U.S. since March 2024, including one documented death.
The Department of Homeland Security has quietly removed sexual orientation and gender identity from its policy manual section prohibiting surveillance based solely on immutable characteristics, allowing intelligence activities that were previously restricted. This change follows Donald Trump's executive orders removing diversity, equity, and inclusion references in government and comes under the leadership of Secretary Kristi Noem, who has a history of targeting LGBTQ+ rights.
Hundreds of NOAA employees were laid off on Thursday as part of the Trump administration's efforts to cut the federal workforce through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The layoffs affected approximately 880 NOAA staffers, representing about 5% of the agency's workforce, with critics arguing these cuts will impact weather forecasting capabilities and potentially endanger lives.
ICE has detained an undocumented mother named Yolanda, 50, and her son Johnathan in El Monte, California, leaving Yolanda's daughter Xitlali, who is battling bone cancer, without her primary caretakers. Xitlali, a U.S. citizen, relies heavily on her mother for care during chemotherapy while her brother was the family's financial provider, and according to their attorney, there is little hope they will be able to remain in the country despite protests from friends and relatives.
The federal district judge allowed CIA director John Ratcliffe to fire intelligence officers who worked on diversity issues, ruling that Ratcliffe has unfettered authority to terminate employees at will without court review, despite acknowledging concerns about fairness. The decision impacts up to 51 intelligence officers who had previously received job offers within the CIA and had collectively given 285 years of service, with their lawyer arguing they should be allowed to apply for other positions within the agency.
The Nature Conservancy has renamed its Gulf of Mexico program to "Gulf of America" following President Trump's executive order that changed the name of this body of water, with the organization stating the change was made to comply with federal directives and ensure continued access to funding. The organization updated its website to reflect this change while explaining that they continue to use "Gulf of Mexico" when referring to programs outside U.S. territorial waters.
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has directed the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to reinstate veterans, disabled veterans, and military spouses who were previously fired. This reversal was communicated through an email to affected CFPB employees whose terminations have now been overturned. The reinstated employees will not experience any break in service or interruption to their pay and benefits, and their termination records will be removed. However, this reinstatement comes amid the Trump administration's preparation for a potential large-scale reduction in force across the federal government, raising questions about the long-term job security for these reinstated workers.
The DOGE initiative, led by Elon Musk, has caused widespread disruption across federal agencies through mass firings and program cuts that are more severe than commonly understood. These cuts have affected critical services including international aid, scientific research, consumer protection, and national security, with long-term consequences that include loss of institutional knowledge, disruption of essential government functions, and significant humanitarian impacts worldwide.
President Donald Trump and Republican leaders are discussing how to use revenue from new tariffs to fund their domestic policy bill, aiming to argue it won't increase the national debt. The strategy involves keeping tariffs outside the reconciliation package while counting the revenue to claim deficit neutrality, with Trump announcing tariffs against Canada, Mexico, and China to take effect next month.
Trump's administration plans to significantly reduce the State Department's size and scope, with potential cuts to staffing levels by at least 20% across its 75,000 employees, including both local hires abroad and U.S. diplomats. While certain functions like consular affairs and economic bureaus will remain, many diplomatic outposts may close, hiring has been frozen, and reforms to Foreign Service standards appear designed to create a more compliant workforce that critics fear could discourage dissenting views essential for informed decision-making.
A person has died of measles in West Texas as part of a fast-moving outbreak that has infected at least 124 people, mostly children, with at least 18 hospitalizations. This marks the first measles death in the United States in a decade, occurring in an outbreak where all hospitalized children at Covenant Children's Hospital in Lubbock were unvaccinated and admitted due to breathing difficulties.
The document is a court filing in the case of Nicolas Talbott v. Donald J. Trump (No. 1:25-cv-240-ACR) in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. It contains a notice of new Department of Defense policy guidance implementing Executive Orders 14168 and 14183, which establish that military service by individuals with gender dysphoria is deemed incompatible with military service and directs the separation of transgender service members.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins outlines a five-point strategy to combat avian influenza and lower egg prices, which have risen 237% since January 2021 to an average of $4.95 per dozen last month. The plan includes investing up to $1 billion to implement biosecurity measures, provide financial relief to affected farmers, research vaccines and therapeutics, reduce regulatory burdens, and consider temporary egg imports that meet U.S. safety standards.
Billed as promoting European products rather than boycotting US ones, a Danish supermarket chain has a special label for goods from Europe. The move comes as many seek to protest Trump's aim to control Greenland.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) was created by President Trump through an executive order that renamed the U.S. Digital Service as the U.S. DOGE Service, with Elon Musk serving as an adviser rather than official administrator. Despite not being a true federal department, DOGE has been granted unprecedented authority to access government databases, initiate layoffs, and halt diversity programs, raising constitutional questions about its operations and facing multiple lawsuits challenging its legality.
Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence, announced the termination of over 100 intelligence officers for participating in sexually explicit discussions on the National Security Agency's "Intelink" messaging platform. The officers will also have their security clearances revoked for what Gabbard described as an "egregious violation of trust" involving the misuse of a professional government platform for inappropriate behavior.
The FDA has canceled a pivotal advisory committee meeting that was set to discuss which flu strains to include in next season's vaccine. The Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee meeting was scheduled for March 13, but committee members were notified of the cancellation without explanation.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has paused a multimillion-dollar contract for a new oral COVID-19 vaccine development by Vaxart Inc., issuing a 90-day stop-work order to review the project that was part of the Biden administration's $4.7 billion Project NextGen initiative. The clinical trial involving 10,000 participants was set to begin but will now be on hold while Kennedy and health officials examine initial findings.
The Social Security Administration is facing significant staff departures, with at least five of eight regional commissioners retiring amid rumors of workforce reductions under Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek, who reportedly aims to reduce the agency's 57,000 employees by approximately 7,000 people. Meanwhile, Karen Evans, a former Department of Energy cyber official who served in the first Trump administration, has been appointed as the new executive assistant director for cybersecurity at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
The Trump administration is planning a nationwide operation to locate and potentially deport unaccompanied migrant children who entered the US without parents, focusing on those without court dates or whose sponsors didn't answer 30-day check-in calls. This initiative comes as more than 291,000 children who crossed the border since fiscal year 2019 were not given notices to appear in court.
The memorandum outlines the implementation of President Trump's Executive Order "Restoring Accountability to Policy-Influencing Positions Within the Federal Workforce," which creates a new Schedule Policy/Career in the excepted service for positions of confidential, policy-determining, policy-making, or policy-advocating character not normally subject to change during presidential transitions. It directs agency heads to review positions within 90 days and petition the Office of Personnel Management to recommend transfers to Schedule Policy/Career, while nullifying previous Biden administration regulations that would impede implementation.
US health officials are reevaluating a $590 million contract for bird flu shots that the Biden administration awarded to Moderna Inc. in January 2025, as part of a broader examination of spending on mRNA-based vaccines. The review comes amid concerns from the Trump administration about the Biden administration's oversight of vaccine production agreements, with Moderna's stock falling as much as 6.6% in after-hours trading following the news.
(original article at the source <https://www.thepinknews.com/2025/02/26/dhs-lgbtq-kristi-noem-department-of-homeland-security/?utm_content=1740571440&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter> causes a redirect loop if not redirected from X) The Department of Homeland Security has eliminated policies that previously prevented staff from gathering intelligence on individuals or groups based solely on their LGBTQ+ status, removing sexual orientation and gender identity from protected categories in their intelligence manual. This change, which comes following President Trump's executive order to scrap DEI policies in federal agencies, has sparked alarm among LGBTQ+ people who fear potential surveillance based solely on their identity.
Twenty-one members of the United States DOGE Service (formerly the U.S. Digital Service) have resigned, citing their refusal to help dismantle public services or compromise government systems. In their resignation letter addressed to White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, the staffers, who appear to have joined before the Trump administration, stated they would not use their technological skills to jeopardize Americans' sensitive data or legitimize DOGE's actions. The resignations follow earlier layoffs at USDS and come amid controversy surrounding DOGE, which is overseen by billionaire White House adviser Elon Musk. DOGE spokesperson Katie Miller responded to the resignations by characterizing the departing employees as "full remote workers who hung Trans flags from their workplaces". The White House press secretary dismissed the resignations, stating that protests and lawsuits would not deter President Trump from delivering on his promises to make the federal government more efficient.
Kyle Diamantas, a Florida attorney and hunting buddy of Donald Trump Jr., has been appointed as acting deputy commissioner for human foods at the FDA despite limited regulatory experience. His appointment comes amid mass purges at health agencies, including the dismissal of 89 staff members from the Human Foods Program, raising concerns about food safety oversight for 80% of the nation's food supply.
An unknown illness with hemorrhagic fever-like symptoms has killed 53 people in northwestern Democratic Republic of Congo since January, with a 12.3% fatality rate among 431 reported cases. WHO officials traced the outbreak to Boloko Village where three children died after eating a bat carcass, and despite testing negative for known diseases like Ebola and Marburg, the remote location and weak healthcare infrastructure present significant challenges to containing the spread.
U.S. consumer confidence plummeted in February 2025, with the Conference Board's index dropping to 98.3 from 105.3 in January, marking the biggest monthly decline in over four years amid concerns about inflation, trade wars, and President Trump's proposed tariffs. The seven-point drop reflected growing pessimism about future business conditions, income prospects, and employment, with the measure of Americans' short-term expectations falling to 72.9, below the 80-point threshold that can signal a potential recession.
This document outlines what the authors describe as an "imminent neoreactionary threat" to American democracy, claiming Elon Musk and associates (including Peter Thiel and Curtis Yarvin) are implementing a radical agenda to dismantle constitutional governance. It details how Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has seized control of critical government infrastructure including Treasury payment systems and personnel data, bypassing oversight and security protocols. The authors argue these actions follow Yarvin's "neoreactionary playbook" to centralize power under a CEO-dictator model, replace democratic institutions with corporate governance, and ultimately transform citizens into "state slaves." The document cites national security concerns regarding Musk's ties to China and Russia, and warns that control of government data systems enables surveillance, coercion, and targeted defunding of opposition. It presents recent government infiltration as part of a coordinated strategy to "break the regime in a single step" rather than merely improving efficiency.
Engineers for Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are working on software called AutoRIF that could automate mass firings of federal workers, with evidence showing they're editing code in the Office of Personnel Management's GitHub system. The software, originally developed by the Department of Defense, is being modified as DOGE prepares for a second major round of firings, with recent emails asking government workers to detail their weekly accomplishments potentially to feed into an AI system that would assess employee necessity.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has removed its five largest savings claims from its "wall of receipts" website after multiple media investigations revealed serious errors in the reported figures. Despite deleting these major savings entries, DOGE still reported an increase in total savings from $55 billion to $65 billion, raising questions about the accuracy and transparency of the Elon Musk-led cost-cutting initiative.
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) terminated the Open Government Federal Advisory Committee, which advised on transparency and public engagement initiatives, following an executive order by President Donald Trump to reduce federal bureaucracy. The abrupt decision drew criticism from the committee’s chair, who characterized it as part of a broader pattern of democratic backsliding under the administration.
The letter from House Democrats to President Trump expresses alarm over cybersecurity vulnerabilities introduced by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team at multiple federal agencies, including exposed payment systems at Treasury and potential access points at national laboratories handling nuclear weapons research. The lawmakers request detailed information about DOGE's activities, systems access, and cybersecurity incidents by March 11, 2025, citing concerns that these practices have undermined decades of bipartisan cybersecurity progress.
The FAA has contracted with SpaceX's Starlink to upgrade its IT networks, raising conflict of interest concerns since Elon Musk leads the Department of Government Efficiency which recommends funding cuts to federal agencies including the FAA. Critics question the appropriateness of Musk's dual role as both a government contractor and a government official tasked with overseeing agencies that regulate his businesses.
Troy Edgar, nominee for DHS deputy secretary, defended the Trump administration's decision to dismiss all members of the Cyber Safety Review Board during its investigation of the Salt Typhoon hack, calling it "a great idea" because the board was "going in the wrong direction." The CSRB, which had been reviewing the breach of U.S. and global telecommunications systems by a Chinese-linked group, was disbanded while CISA took over the investigation, though the FBI continues its own inquiry into Salt Typhoon's "indiscriminate" collection of Americans' data.
A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 prevented a potential collision at Chicago Midway Airport on February 25, 2025, by executing a go-around when a Flexjet Bombardier Challenger 350 crossed the runway without authorization. The incident occurred around 8:50 a.m. local time when the Southwest flight from Omaha was about to land on Runway 31 Center, but instead accelerated and climbed over the business jet, landing safely about 10 minutes later.
The US State Department has ordered officials to deny visas to transgender athletes coming to the US for sports competitions and issue permanent visa bans against those deemed to misrepresent their birth sex on applications. This directive follows Trump's executive order barring trans athletes from women's sports and instructs consular officers to apply the "permanent fraud bar" against trans applicants, which triggers lifetime exclusion from the United States with limited waiver possibilities.
President Donald Trump announced plans to sell a "gold card" to wealthy foreigners for $5 million, providing green card privileges and a path to citizenship. The program, set to begin in about two weeks, will replace the existing EB-5 immigrant investor visa program and require vetting to ensure applicants are "wonderful world-class global citizens."
Focus groups conducted in February 2025 reveal widespread skepticism about Elon Musk's role in government through DOGE, with voters describing him as "weird," "scary," and "selfish," while Trump is viewed as a strong leader compared to Democrats who are perceived as "weak" and "out of touch." The dominant concern across all voter groups is the cost of living, with participants expressing frustration about inflation and hoping Trump will address economic issues, though they remain divided on whether his policies like tariffs will help or hurt their financial situations.
The White House announced it will now control which media outlets cover presidential events as part of the press pool, reversing the long-standing practice where journalists determined pool participation. This decision follows the administration barring the Associated Press from pooled events after AP refused to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America," with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that the White House Correspondents' Association "should no longer have a monopoly" on organizing press pools.
A federal court has granted a temporary restraining order and expanded preliminary injunction blocking the implementation of Executive Order 14168's provisions regarding transgender inmate transfers and medical care termination for twelve transgender women in federal custody. The Court rejected the government's arguments about low-security men's facilities being safer, maintaining that removing the possibility of housing the plaintiffs in women's facilities (when previously determined appropriate under existing constitutional and statutory requirements) demonstrates a likelihood of success on the plaintiffs' Eighth Amendment claim.
Delta Flight 876 made an emergency landing in Atlanta after crew reported "possible smoke" in the flight deck, leading to an evacuation of 94 passengers and 5 crew members via emergency slides. Two passengers required medical attention after the incident, which occurred shortly after the Boeing 717 departed for Columbia, South Carolina.
A federal court granted a temporary restraining order against the Departments of Education and OPM to prevent them from sharing personal data with employees working on Trump's "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) agenda, finding the agencies likely violated the Privacy Act by granting broad access without demonstrating a "need to know". The ruling blocks Education and OPM (except for CIO Greg Hogan) from disclosing plaintiffs' personally identifiable information to DOGE affiliates until March 10, 2025, though it denied the request regarding Treasury since another court had already issued similar relief.
The U.S. Department of Justice has removed a database tracking misconduct by federal law enforcement officers, stating it is no longer active. This action followed an executive order from Donald Trump that rescinded a previous order (EO 14074) from Joe Biden establishing the database.
A bomb threat disrupted the Principles First Summit in Washington DC on February 23, forcing a two-hour evacuation after organizers received an email from "Enrique T." threatening four pipe bombs targeting the venue, Michael Fanone's mother's mailbox, and John Bolton's residence. The threat came just days after former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, who was recently pardoned by Trump from a 22-year seditious conspiracy sentence, was arrested for allegedly assaulting a protester at the Capitol and had confronted summit speakers including Capitol Police officer Michael Fanone.
The Trump administration is placing most USAID staffers worldwide on administrative leave and firing at least 1,600 U.S.-based employees as part of a broader campaign to dismantle the agency. The move comes after a federal judge allowed the administration to proceed with its plan, despite ongoing lawsuits challenging the constitutional authority to eliminate an independent agency without congressional approval.
A new variant of H5N1 bird flu has become endemic in dairy cows across multiple U.S. states, with experts warning the situation is unlikely to be contained without intervention, particularly concerning given Trump administration cuts to CDC and USDA staff responding to the outbreak. The virus has shown concerning patterns of transmission between birds, cows, and humans, with multiple spillover events in Nevada and Arizona involving the D1.1 variant, while simultaneously occurring during the worst flu season in 15 years - raising risks of viral reassortment and mutation.
More than a quarter of the contracts listed by DOGE were actually already paid, the Journal found, saving no money. For instance, DOGE listed $168,000 in savings for terminating a contract with HHS for an Anthony Fauci museum exhibit. It had already been fully paid.
On February 22, 2025, federal employees received an email from OPM demanding "5 bullets of what you accomplished last week," with Elon Musk claiming on X that non-responses would be considered resignations, leading to widespread confusion and conflicting guidance across agencies. Multiple federal departments including the FBI, State Department, VA, and Department of the Navy have instructed employees to ignore the email, while the DOJ appears to be telling staff to comply, creating an unprecedented situation where Trump-appointed officials are treating a presidentially-authorized communication as a potential threat.
The Trump administration has conducted a widespread purge of federal health workers, firing approximately 750 CDC workers, over 1,000 NIH staffers, and numerous employees at CMS and FDA, with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. vowing to gut federal health centers. The firings have severely impacted critical public health programs including tobacco regulation, maternal health initiatives, and organ donation systems, with terminated employees warning that these cuts will lead to increased risks to public health and potentially cost lives.
A federal court has partially granted a preliminary injunction against three provisions of Trump's January 2025 executive orders targeting DEI programs, finding that the Termination Provision is unconstitutionally vague, the Certification Provision violates the First Amendment as a content-based speech restriction, and the Enforcement Threat Provision's enforcement component constitutes unconstitutional viewpoint discrimination.
The Associated Press has filed a lawsuit against three Trump administration officials over restricted access to presidential events, citing freedom of speech violations. The lawsuit comes in response to the White House blocking AP journalists after the news agency declined to fully adopt President Trump's renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America" in its reporting.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) claims to have saved $55B through contract cancellations and staff cuts, but their public ledger contains numerous accounting errors, incorrect assumptions, and misleading calculations that significantly inflate the actual savings.
Current and former federal workers have created a website called "We the Builders" to anonymously share information about how the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is dismantling government agencies and accessing government tech systems. The site aims to inform the public about what's happening inside federal agencies and explain how DOGE's database access in Washington, DC could impact citizens across the country, with the creators describing themselves as "builders" in contrast to DOGE, which they characterize as "destroyers."
In an unprecedented move on February 21, 2025, the Trump administration fired several top military leaders including Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Charles "CQ" Brown, Navy Chief Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Air Force Vice Chief Gen. James Slife, and the judge advocates general of three service branches. The firings coincided with announcements of massive civilian workforce cuts at the Pentagon, with critics suggesting some leaders were targeted due to their previous support of diversity initiatives and statements about institutional racism.
U.S. stocks experienced significant declines on February 23, 2025, with the S&P 500 dropping 1.7%, Dow falling 748 points, and Nasdaq tumbling 2.2%, driven by weak economic reports showing consumer and business concerns about government policies affecting the economy. The market decline was exacerbated by reports of slowing business activity, higher inflation expectations tied to potential tariffs, and weaker-than-expected home sales.
US economic growth has faltered to a near-stalled pace in February 2025, with the Composite Flash PMI Output Index falling to 50.4, a 17-month low, while goods prices have spiked higher due to tariffs. Companies attribute the weaker expansion to uncertainty and disruption caused by recent US government policy initiatives, though reduced pricing power in the services sector has offset manufacturing price increases, which bodes well for inflation but poorly for profits.
The article discusses the history and importance of the Department of Education, highlighting how it evolved from a data-collecting office in 1867 to a cabinet-level department that distributes funding for disadvantaged students and enforces civil rights laws in schools. In March 2025, the department faces scrutiny from Trump's administration and Elon Musk's DOGE initiative, which are investigating education spending cuts in line with Project 2025's proposal to eliminate the department entirely.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has halted its successful "Wild to Mild" flu vaccination campaign following a review by the Department of Health and Human Services under newly appointed secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The campaign, which used contrasting images of wild animals and their tame counterparts to illustrate how vaccines can reduce flu severity, was pulled despite the current flu season being particularly severe with hospitalization rates at a 15-year high.
Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.) filed articles of impeachment against U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer after the judge blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing Treasury Department data. A second House Republican, Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.), also filed separate impeachment articles against Engelmayer, accusing him of judicial misconduct and showing "apparent bias and favoritism" in his ruling that temporarily barred DOGE staffers from accessing sensitive Treasury systems.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology is preparing to fire approximately 500 probationary staffers as part of President Trump's federal government cuts, with some employees already receiving verbal notices. The layoffs could significantly impact offices overseeing Biden-era semiconductor investments and AI initiatives, including the US Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute, following Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's confirmation and Trump's shift away from the previous administration's risk-based approach to AI policy.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., despite promising Senator Bill Cassidy he would not change the nation's vaccination schedule to secure his confirmation as health secretary, announced plans to investigate childhood vaccines through a new "Make America Healthy Again" commission. Speaking to HHS employees during a measles outbreak in West Texas, Kennedy stated "nothing is going to be off limits" in examining vaccines, pesticides, food additives, microplastics, antidepressants, and electromagnetic waves to determine if they contribute to chronic illnesses like diabetes and obesity.
Yosemite National Park announced a delay in reservations for popular campgrounds (Upper Pines, Lower Pines, North Pines, Wawona and Hodgdon Meadow) for June 15-July 14, amid staffing shortages caused by a federal hiring freeze and recent termination of National Park Service employees. The reservation system for park entry, which was scheduled to become permanent this year, is also on hold pending review by the Trump administration, creating uncertainty for both visitors planning trips and park operations during the busy summer season.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is seeking access to the IRS's highly sensitive taxpayer data system, with software engineer Gavin Kliger expected to be granted access "imminently" for at least 120 days. The system contains private information including tax returns, Social Security numbers, and banking details of millions of Americans, with strict protocols in place to prevent unauthorized access and potential penalties including termination, fines, or imprisonment for improper use.
This article discusses how pardoned Jan 6 defendants are now arguing the presidential pardon should extend beyond Capitol riot charges to other crimes discovered during investigations, including murder plots, illegal weapons, and child pornography. Some defendants are publicly naming prosecutors and officials involved in their cases, raising safety concerns. Several have had new confrontations with law enforcement, including one fatal incident, while others seek to have unrelated criminal charges dismissed by claiming they're connected to Jan 6 investigations. The pardoned defendants are targeting both prosecutors and correctional officers - specifically, they've compiled lists of 124+ officials involved in their cases and shared them publicly on X (formerly Twitter). Some are accusing DC jail guards of abuse and corruption, posting their names and LinkedIn profiles. One post about jail workers was reshared by a Proud Boys chapter with threatening messages. The DC Department of Corrections says these allegations are being reported to authorities.
A federal court has blocked the order, finding it likely unconstitutional because: 1) Only Congress, not the President, has power over federal spending; 2) The order discriminates based on sex/transgender status without sufficient justification; and 3) It improperly tries to expand federal criminal law into states' authority to regulate medicine.
The U.S. Digital Service, recently renamed to Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Service under Trump and led by Elon Musk, has dismissed dozens of employees (estimated around 50) as part of a broader government workforce reduction. The dismissals affected legacy USDS employees who were previously working on projects like improving the Social Security Administration's website.
Despite increased resources and efforts, ICE is struggling to meet the Trump administration's goals for immigration arrests, leading to internal dissatisfaction and criticism. Simultaneously, Indian American communities are experiencing heightened fear due to ICE raids, prompting local leaders to advocate for balanced and compassionate immigration policies.
Four nonprofit organizations have filed suit claiming the order is arbitrary, exceeds OMB's authority, and violates First Amendment rights by conditioning funding on political viewpoints.
The Trump administration fired over 300 employees of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) on Thursday night, only to reverse course upon learning these workers were responsible for overseeing America's nuclear weapons stockpile. Officials reportedly did not realize the agency's critical role in nuclear security when making the terminations, which were part of broader workforce cuts led by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The CDC's "Wild to Mild" flu vaccination campaign was terminated just days after Robert F. Kennedy Jr. became health secretary. The campaign, which used contrasting images of wild and tame animals to illustrate how vaccines reduce flu severity, was halted during one of the worst flu seasons in decades, with materials being removed from the CDC website despite the campaign's reported success in reaching vulnerable populations.
The document reaffirms discrimination based on race, color, or national origin is illegal in educational institutions receiving federal funding, citing the 2023 SFFA v. Harvard decision as framework for evaluating race-based decisions. The letter prohibits use of race in admissions, financial aid, housing, programming, hiring, and other institutional activities, while banning the use of proxies or indirect means to achieve racial balancing. Educational institutions are required to ensure policy compliance, stop using race-based proxies, and cease using third parties to circumvent prohibitions. The Department warns of potential federal funding loss for non-compliance and indicates enforcement will begin within 14 days of issuance.
AIDS Vaccine Coalition and the Journalism Development Network, Inc., Public Ctiizen, sued the State Department, USAID, Secretary Rubio, OMB, OMB Director Russ Vought, and President Trump for the actions taken the dismantle USAID and foreign aid freeze. The plaintiffs argue that the aid freeze and stop work order violate the separation of powers, the Take Care Clause, and the Administrative Procedures Act.
The National Treasury Employees Union sued acting CFPB Director Russ Vought over the access granted to DOGE-affiliated employees of employee's personal data. The suit alleges violations of the Privacy Act and request that the court enjoin the CFPB from granting this access to members of DOGE.
The National Treasury Employees Union sued acting CFPB Director Russ Vought over his stop work order for CFPB employees and actions to dismantle CFPB. The plaintiffs allege that the actions violate separation of power and ask that Vought be enjoined from further attempts to halt CFPB's work.
A years-long redistricting battle over Alabama's congressional maps is going to trial to determine Black representation in the state's congressional delegation through 2030. The case centers on whether Alabama violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act by drawing a map with only one majority-Black district despite a court order requiring two districts where Black Alabamians could elect candidates of their choice.
The attorneys general of New York, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin sued President Trump, the Treasury Department, and Treasury Secretary Bessent over DOGE's access to the Department of Treasury. Plaintiffs are requesting the court grant a temporary restraining order and preliminary and permanent injunctions preventing non-Treasury employees from haining access to to any Treasury Department payment systems or data systems at Treasury.
The Government Accountability Project and National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, represented by Protect Democracy, sued the Office of Personnel Management and President Trump over his executive order aimed to redesignate thousands of civil servants to make them easier to fire at will. The suit alleges the order violates the Administrative Procedure Act, the CSRA, 5 U.S.C. §§ 2302, 7511, is in Excess of Delegated Authority, and the Fifth Amendment’s Due Process Clause.
The American Foreign Service and the American Federation of Government Employees, represented by Public Citizen and Democracy Forward, sued President Trump, the State Department, USAID, Secretary of State Rubio, and Secretary of Treasury Bessent. The plaintiffs are seeking injuctive relief for the actions taken by the Trump administration to dismantle USAID, including the stop work order and laying off USAID contractors. The suit allege these actions violate the seperation of powers, the Take Care Clause, and the Administrative Procedure Act.
23,000 federal prison workers will face pay cuts up to 25% starting March 23, 2025 as the Bureau of Prisons reduces or eliminates retention incentives due to budget constraints while operating under a continuing resolution. The decision affects more than half of the BOP workforce and has already prompted staff concerns about potential resignations from already understaffed facilities.
7 current transgender service members, 1 prospective transgender servicemember and the Gender Justice League, represented by Lambda Legal Defense and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, sued President Trump and the Department of Defense over his executive order banning transgender service members from the military. The suit alleges the ban violates the Equal Protection Clause, the First Amendment, and procedural due process and requests that the court enjoin the defendants from implementing the ban.
Multiple federal government employee unions, represented by Democracy Forward, sued the Department of Labor, U.S. Digital Service (U.S. DOGE Service), and U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization over DOGE's expected attempt to access "highly sensitive data" at the Department of Labor.
DOGE employees were instructed to stop using Slack while the agency transitions from being under the Office of Management and Budget to the Executive Office of the President, a move that would make its records not subject to the Freedom of Information Act until years after a president leaves office. This organizational shift, directed under Elon Musk's leadership, has raised concerns among government experts who argue that DOGE's cross-agency activities extend beyond presidential advisory functions and should remain subject to transparency laws.
The article from The Hill covers various political developments including Trump's imposition of 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada and 10% on China, which sparked international tensions with China filing a WTO lawsuit in response. It also discusses controversy surrounding Trump's comments linking DEI practices to a plane crash near Reagan National Airport, with various lawmakers either defending or criticizing these remarks, while Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy maintained that the U.S. has "the safest airspace in the world" despite recent incidents.
The USPS announced a temporary suspension of international package acceptance from China and Hong Kong Posts effective February 4, 2025, though letters and flats would not be affected. However, as of February 5, 2025, the Postal Service updated its policy to continue accepting all international inbound mail and packages from China and Hong Kong Posts, as USPS and Customs and Border Protection work together to implement an efficient collection mechanism for new China tariffs.
9 current FBI agents/employees sued the Department of Justice over President Trump's order to remove FBI personnel who participated in the Jan. 6 investifations and/or the investigations of President Donald Trump. The suit alleges the order violates the Civil Service Reform Act 5 U.S.C. §§2301 and 2303.
The FBI Agents Association, John Does 1-4, and Jane Does 1-3 sued the Department of Justice over President Trump's order for FBI agents to fill out a questionnaire on their work regarding the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol and potentially fire agents and employees involed with the investigations. The suit alleges the order would violate the Privacy Act, the Administrative Procedures Act, the Mandamus under 28 U.S.C. § 1361, the First Amendment, and Due Process.
Democrats have introduced the "Stop the Steal Act" to counter what they view as illegal interference by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency in federal agencies, particularly after Musk affiliates attempted to access sensitive information at USAID and Treasury Department. Republicans defend the administration's actions as legitimate reviews of government spending, while Democrats accuse Musk and Trump of operating a "shadow government" that bypasses congressional authority.
El Salvador has agreed to house violent US criminals and deportees of any nationality in an unprecedented deal announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio after meeting with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele. The agreement includes accepting Salvadoran deportees who illegally entered the US, receiving criminal deportees of any nationality, and housing dangerous American criminals in El Salvador's prisons in exchange for a fee.
The article discusses the potential dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education under the Trump administration, warning that such action would harm vulnerable students by cutting essential funding, eliminating civil rights protections, and reducing educational opportunities. It outlines how this move would negatively impact programs like Title I funding, special education services, and financial aid while emphasizing that educators and parents oppose these changes and will continue to advocate for well-resourced public schools.
3 immigrant advocacy organizations sued President Trump, DHS, the State Department, Department of Justice, and ICE with the assistance of the ACLU over the executive order, "Guaranteeing the States Protection Against Invasion." The suit alleges that the order violates the asylum statute, the removal statute, the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act, the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act, the Immigration and Nationality Act, the Administrative Procedure Act, and the separation of powers.
President Donald Trump appointed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as acting director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, who immediately halted all agency operations including regulations, investigations, and communications pending review. The move signals a potential major shift for the consumer watchdog agency, which was established after the 2008 financial crisis and had been aggressively overseeing financial practices under its previous director Rohit Chopra, who Trump fired before his term ended.
Congressional Democrats, including Senators Van Hollen and Schatz and Representatives Raskin and Connolly, were denied entry to the USAID headquarters during a protest against Trump's reported move to shut down the agency and deny staff entry to the building. The lawmakers were told the office was closed and employees were instructed to telework, with a similar incident occurring days later when Democratic lawmakers were also blocked from entering the EPA headquarters.
Elon Musk's team at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has gained access to the Treasury's payment system after David Lebryk, the Fiscal Assistant Secretary since 2014, was put on administrative leave for refusing to grant this access. The article warns this represents an unprecedented constitutional crisis as it could potentially allow the Trump administration to control federal payments, bypass agency cooperation, and impound funds contrary to congressional appropriations.
Democratic Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii has announced he will place a "blanket hold" on all Trump State Department nominees until the administration ends its attack on USAID, which Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency is attempting to close despite its existence being codified in federal law. This move threatens to stall Trump's foreign policy team appointments as DOGE staffers have forced their way into USAID headquarters, gaining access to classified information and closing the building to employees.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he had taken over as acting administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), an agency that had functioned independently for over 60 years, amid drastic changes including suspended officials and hundreds of employees locked out of systems. This takeover, part of the Trump administration's efforts to reduce government spending led by Elon Musk, has sparked protests from USAID employees and criticism from Democrats who argue the shutdown is illegal since Congress created and continues to fund the agency.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has empowered Pete Marocco to run USAID and review all of its work, with potential plans to suspend or eliminate programs as part of the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle the agency. USAID employees were ordered to work remotely after Elon Musk announced that he and President Trump were in the process of shutting down the agency, which has been the U.S. government's main international humanitarian and development arm since 1961.
The State Department has fired about 60 contractors from its democracy, human rights and labor bureau, severely impacting programs focused on promoting democratic practices in authoritarian states like China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Venezuela and Cuba. The dismissals follow President Trump's executive order suspending foreign aid programs and mirror similar workforce reductions at USAID, despite Secretary of State Marco Rubio's previous support for human rights initiatives.
President Donald Trump announced a one-month pause on the 25% tariff for Mexican imports after Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum agreed to deploy 10,000 soldiers to their northern border to prevent drug trafficking and migration into the United States. The pause was announced two days after Trump had imposed 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada, as well as a 10% tariff on Chinese imports.
U.S. President Donald Trump paused planned 25% tariffs on Canadian goods for 30 days after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau committed to enhancing border security measures, including appointing a fentanyl czar and designating Mexican cartels as terrorists under Canadian law. The temporary ceasefire in the trade dispute came after Trudeau promised to implement a $1.3 billion border security plan with 10,000 front-line personnel and establish a joint strike force to combat organized crime, while Trump indicated he's still seeking a "final economic deal" with Canada.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk under President Trump's administration, has gained access to sensitive Treasury data including Social Security and Medicare payment systems, raising concerns about potential interference with federal payments. Senator Ron Wyden expressed alarm that this access could lead to illegal withholding of program payments, while Musk claimed on social media that Treasury payment approval officers "were instructed always to approve payments, even to known fraudulent or terrorist groups."
The Washington Post article reports that David A. Lebryk, a top Treasury career official, announced his retirement after a dispute with Elon Musk's allies over access to sensitive government payment systems that disburse trillions of dollars annually. Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) representatives had been requesting access to these systems since after the election, reflecting an intensifying power struggle between Musk and the federal bureaucracy in the early days of Trump's second administration.
Two top security officials at USAID were placed on administrative leave after refusing to allow Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) personnel access to agency systems, despite threats to call law enforcement. DOGE personnel attempted to access USAID headquarters in Washington, DC, seeking entry to security systems, personnel files, and classified information, amid growing concerns that the Trump administration is intentionally dismantling the agency.
Marisa Kabas describes a series of actions taken by Elon Musk and the Trump administration in early February 2025, including taking control of federal payment systems, locking out career civil servants from computer systems, and implementing various restrictions related to diversity and inclusion initiatives. The article characterizes these developments as an "administrative coup" with Musk effectively controlling government operations through his position as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Canada will impose 25% retaliatory tariffs on $155 billion worth of American goods in response to President Donald Trump's imposition of 25% tariffs on virtually all Canadian goods. The trade war, which Trump justified as a response to Canada's alleged failure to address drug and migrant issues, threatens to severely impact both economies despite data showing minimal fentanyl seizures at the northern border compared to the southwestern one.
January 2025
The USDA directed agency officials to review and remove climate change content from public websites, instructing web managers to identify, archive, or unpublish materials by a Friday deadline. The directive, which followed President Trump's executive orders reversing climate policies, required staff to categorize content into three tiers of urgency based on how prominently climate change was featured.
A U.S. judge temporarily blocked federal prison officials from transferring a transgender woman to a men's facility and denying her access to gender-affirming care in accordance with an executive order issued by President Donald Trump. The temporary restraining order was issued by U.S. District Judge George O'Toole in Boston on January 30, 2025, in what appears to be the first lawsuit challenging Trump's executive order that directed the federal government to recognize only two biological sexes and house transgender women in men's prisons.
Trump's blanket pardons for January 6 Capitol riot participants included dozens of individuals with extensive criminal histories, including convictions for rape, sexual abuse of minors, domestic violence, manslaughter, and production of child sexual abuse material. While Trump claimed individual case review would be "cumbersome" and sentences were excessive, his pardons only applied to Capitol riot-related charges, leaving many defendants still facing unrelated criminal proceedings. Notable examples include Theodore Middendorf (convicted of sexually assaulting a 7-year-old), Peter Schwartz (38 prior convictions including domestic violence), David Daniel (facing child pornography charges), and others with histories of violent crimes. Some pardoned individuals, like Matthew Huttle (who had abused his 3-year-old son), continued their criminal behavior after January 6, with Huttle being fatally shot by law enforcement shortly after receiving his pardon.
President Trump has issued an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) and is exploring the creation of an alternative international health structure. The authors of the BMJ article argue that such a parallel structure would be dangerous, causing duplication of efforts, coordination challenges between countries, and ultimately weakening global responses to health challenges.
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, represented by Democracy Foward, sued President Trump and the Office of Personnel Management, over his attempt to repeal a regulation that protects civil servants. The suit alleges OPM violated the Administrative Procedure Act and all defendats violation 5 U.S.C. § 553 and requests the court enjoin the Trump administration from enacting Schedule F without complying with the APA.
This happened while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 p.m. local time. PSA was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines. It departed from Wichita, Kansas. The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation.
The document is a legal notice filed by defendants in a case challenging an Office of Management and Budget memorandum that temporarily paused federal financial assistance programs. It informs the court that OMB rescinded the challenged memorandum (M-25-13) on January 29, 2025, arguing this renders the plaintiffs' claims moot and eliminates the need for emergency relief.
6 current transgender service members and 2 prospective members sued President Trump, seeking injuctive relief against the implementation of this order. The suit alleges the order violates the Equal Protection section of the 5th Amendment of the Constitution.
A federal court granted a temporary restraining order requiring CDC, FDA, and HHS to restore health-related webpages and datasets that were removed on January 31, 2025 in response to a Trump executive order, finding that medical providers face irreparable harm from loss of critical clinical resources.
Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility sued President Trump and the Office of Personnel Management, alleging that the renewed Schedule F executive order reinstates a spoils system in the civil service, one "untethered from merit." Plaintiffs argue that the Schedule F order discards civil servant protections requested by previous executives, enacted by Congress, and accepted by all three branches of government.
A federal judge in D.C. temporarily blocked the Trump administration's freeze on federal spending just before it was set to take effect, following legal challenges from nonprofit organizations and attorneys general from 22 states and D.C. who argued the freeze violated federal law, the Constitution's separation of powers, and targeted recipients based on political views.
This lawsuit, filed by 23 states and the District of Columbia, seeks to block a January 27, 2025 Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directive that orders an immediate pause on "all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all Federal financial assistance" while agencies review their programs for consistency with new executive orders. The states argue this directive is illegal, unconstitutional, and will cause immediate devastating harm by freezing billions in critical federal funding that states rely on for healthcare, education, law enforcement, infrastructure, and other essential services. The suit claims the directive violates the Administrative Procedure Act, separation of powers, Spending Clause, and other constitutional provisions by unilaterally withholding congressionally appropriated funds without authority.
A group of Quaker meetings sued DHS to prevent the new policy that allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement to conduct immigration enforcement inside of houses of worship and religious gatherings. The plantiffs allege that the policy undermines their constitutionaly granted religious freedom.
This memorandum from the Acting Director of the Office of Management and Budget institutes a temporary pause on federal financial assistance programs, requiring agencies to review all grants, loans, and other funding to ensure alignment with President Trump's priorities. The directive aims to redirect federal spending away from programs related to "Marxist equity, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering" toward administration goals including strengthening America, eliminating inflation, unleashing energy production, ending "wokeness," and promoting government efficiency.
This memorandum from the Acting Director of the Office of Management and Budget requires federal agencies to temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of federal financial assistance programs, effective January 28, 2025, while conducting a comprehensive review to ensure alignment with President Trump's executive orders and priorities. The directive specifically targets programs related to foreign aid, nongovernmental organizations, DEI, gender ideology, and environmental initiatives, requiring agencies to submit detailed information by February 10, 2025, for OMB review before resuming activities.
This class action lawsuit against the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) alleges that OPM illegally deployed an email server to collect federal employee data without conducting required Privacy Impact Assessments. According to the complaint, OPM sent "test" emails to federal employees in January 2025 requesting responses, potentially as part of an effort to compile employee lists. The plaintiffs seek an injunction to stop OPM from collecting any employee information until proper privacy assessments are completed.
U.S. public health officials have been ordered to immediately cease all collaborations with the World Health Organization following a CDC memo, despite expectations of a gradual withdrawal process after President Trump's executive order. The sudden stoppage impacts critical global health initiatives including investigations of Marburg virus and mpox outbreaks in Africa, while simultaneously the administration has frozen spending on PEPFAR, the anti-HIV program credited with saving 25 million lives.
This memorandum from the Acting Director of the Office of Management and Budget announces a temporary pause on federal financial assistance programs to align with President Trump's priorities, requiring agencies to review all grants, loans, and other financial assistance to ensure they support administration goals like ending "wokeness," promoting efficiency, and eliminating programs related to "Marxist equity" and "green new deal social engineering." The pause takes effect January 28, 2025, and requires agencies to submit detailed information by February 10 about affected programs, with exceptions granted only on a case-by-case basis by OMB.
The order is being challenged in court by Maria Moe, a transgender woman currently housed in a women's federal prison, who argues the order violates her constitutional rights, the Rehabilitation Act, and administrative law by putting her at risk of serious harm and denying necessary medical care.
Donald Trump announced retaliatory measures against Colombia after President Gustavo Petro allegedly refused to allow repatriation flights carrying "Illegal Criminals" to land. These measures include emergency tariffs on Colombian goods, travel bans on government officials, visa sanctions, enhanced inspections of Colombian nationals and cargo, and financial sanctions.
([Petro enfrenta Trump e vence primeira queda de braço. Americano recuou](https://pensarpiaui.com/noticias/petro-enfrenta-trump-e-vence-primeira-queda-de-braco-americano-recuou/38554)). President Petro would not agree to have the Colombian nationals treated like prizoners on a U.S. military transport plane. He successfully negotiated for them to be transported on his presidential plane. This was a battle Trump ultimately lost.
4 Chicago-based immigrant advocacy organizations sued the Trump administration over its plans to conduct immigration enforcement in Chicago, a sanctuary city. The suit alleges that the "federal government’s plan to use Chicago-based immigration raids to quash the Sanctuary City Movement is a clear and obvious violation of the First Amendment." It also alleges a violation of the Administrative Procedures Act.
The Trump administration's Interior Department said on Friday, January 24, 2025 that it had officially changed the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, and the Alaskan peak Denali to Mount McKinley.
The ACLU filed a lawsuit against the Trump adminsitration on behalf of Make the Road, a immigrant advocacy organization. The suit seeks to enjoin DHS's new rule on expedited removal and cites violations of the Fifth Amendment’s due process clause, the Immigration and Nationality Act, and the Administrative Procedure Act.
Public Citizen, State Democracy Defenders Fund, and the American Federation of Government Employees sued President Trump and the OMB to esure the Department of Government Efficiency complies with the Federal Advisory Committee Act.
The Center for Biological Diversity sued OMB to compel it to release records of its communitcations with the Department of Government Efficiency under the Freedom of Information Act.
The National Treasury Employees Union challenged the Schedule F Executive Order on several grounds. It claims that the order exceeds statutory authority, unlawfully purports to apply to career officials, violates federal employees’ due process rights, and violates the Administrative Procedure Act.
December 2024
The article reports that Mike Whitaker, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration, announced his resignation effective January 20, 2025, allowing President-elect Donald Trump to appoint his successor. Whitaker, who had led tougher enforcement against Boeing following a door panel blowout incident in January, had served since October 2023 but is stepping down before completing his five-year term.
April 2024
A 19-year-old US citizen, Jose Hermosillo, was detained by immigration agents for 10 days in Arizona after being accused of illegally entering the country. However, his case was dismissed without prejudice on Thursday after his family provided officials with his Social Security card and birth certificate, revealing he is a US citizen. According to court documents, Hermosillo admitted to entering the US from Mexico, but his attorney disputed this claim, stating that agents did not believe him.