When Elon Musk recently introduced the Department of Government Efficiency at the Capitol, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed optimism, suggesting that the upcoming Trump administration would usher in significant changes.
Three weeks into this new administration, however, the scale of the disruption has reached unprecedented levels, affecting the federal government by dismantling established programs, provoking widespread public backlash, and questioning the traditional functions of Congress regarding lawmaking and funding.

In recent actions, government employees are feeling pressured to resign, while entire agencies face closure. There have been temporary freezes on federal funding directed towards states and nonprofits. Furthermore, a serious breach of privacy occurred when valuable Treasury Department information about numerous Americans was made accessible to Musk’s DOGE team.

An emerging opposition movement is gaining traction online, with plans organized for nationwide protests on Wednesday.

In a notable development, Pam Bondi has been sworn in as the U.S. attorney general.
Before the oath of office was administered by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas in the Oval Office, Trump commended Bondi’s prosecutorial record, emphasizing her commitment to restore justice within the department.
This event marked Trump’s first participation in a swearing-in ceremony since he began a new term, illustrating his keen interest in the department that has previously faced scrutiny during two now-dropped criminal cases against him.

Bondi, who previously served as the attorney general of Florida, assured Trump of her dedication, affirming, “I will make you proud and I will make this country proud.”
As the new attorney general, she prepares to navigate potential tumult within the Justice Department, a target of Trump’s frustration for years.

In a move to protest the confirmation of Russ Vought as Trump’s budget director, Senate Democrats have planned an all-night session.
With all 47 Democrats voicing opposition to Vought, who is linked to Project 2025 and the budget cuts instigated by Musk’s DOGE team, they aim to register their discontent throughout the night even though they lack the numbers to stop the nomination.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer declared their intent to raise awareness about Vought’s nomination vigorously.

Supporters of USAID gathered in large numbers near the U.S. Capitol to demonstrate against the recent cuts and disbandment of USAID programs.
Several Democratic Congress members were scheduled to speak at what has become the second protest involving lawmakers this week.
Posters displaying “the faces of foreign aid” showcased the work of individuals like doctors and teachers served by USAID initiatives globally, as chants of “Hell no, we won’t go!” filled the air.

In light of an abrupt order from the Trump administration aimed at withdrawing almost all USAID personnel from international positions, workers abroad are quickly seeking clarity while preparing to return to the U.S.
With recent rallies planned to express dissent against the dissolution of a government agency that has operated for sixty years, USAID has become one of many targeting agencies under scrutiny from Trump and Musk’s budget-reducing initiatives.

U.S. embassies worldwide have held urgent meetings for USAID staff and contractors trying to ascertain their employment status, as guidelines for local hires remain unclear.

House Speaker Mike Johnson characterized Trump’s plans regarding Gaza as “common sense,” praising the initiative as “bold.”
He expressed optimism that resolving the situation could lead to lasting peace, affirming the necessity of enhancing safety in the region and vowed to discuss these ideas further in a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

The president of a Serb-controlled region in Bosnia remarked that U.S. foreign aid has caused significant issues globally, expressing support for Trump’s election.
Milorad Dodik, under U.S. sanctions for allegations of corruption, called U.S. aid efforts destabilizing.

In Baltimore, Mayor Brandon Scott has initiated a “Definitely Earned It” campaign to confront the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs instigated by Trump.
Following backlash and racist comments online regarding a bridge collapse near his city, Scott aims to shine a light on minority achievers during Black History Month.

The CIA has begun offering buyouts to its employees, in line with Trump’s strategy to reshape the federal workforce.
An agency representative refrained from disclosing the number of buyout offers or deadlines. John Ratcliffe, Trump’s appointee to lead the CIA, has pledged to implement significant alterations within the agency.

Vice President JD Vance communicated the administration’s continuing dedication to safeguarding religious freedom.
At a summit, he elaborated on his efforts through executive orders aimed at amplifying protections for religious liberty, thanking organizations committed to this pursuit.

A union spokesperson representing federal employees revealed that many are reconsidering their acceptance of deferred resignation offers, expressing anxiety about the current chaotic environment.
As numerous workers remain uncertain about their future, conversations surrounding the unpredictability of their roles have heightened stress levels among federal employees.

In another significant change, the Education Department stated that “male” and “female” will be the only recognized gender options on the FAFSA federal student aid form, following an order from Trump to classify sex strictly.
The Department plans future revisions aimed at simplifying the FAFSA process for students, especially in improving the invitation system for parental involvement in the application.

Furthermore, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is working to regain the support of Trump’s base as the 2028 presidential primary approaches.
He is positioning himself by advocating for Trump’s immigration policies; however, Florida Republicans seem reluctant to follow his initiatives, showcasing a division in political strategy as he aims for a second presidential bid.

The Trump administration’s decision to withdraw nearly all USAID personnel from their roles has resulted in significant changes to its longstanding mission.
This latest action, conveyed through emails and public notices, has left many agency employees rushing to pack and return home within 30 days, unless categorized as essential.
This shift has led to widespread layoffs and program shutdowns internationally, marking a significant restructuring of foreign assistance operations that have functioned for decades.

Different members of Congress have recently conveyed their concerns about Trump’s remarks regarding military intervention in Gaza, with strong reactions indicating disapproval of any aggressive military actions, stating that such plans could lead to severe international conflicts.

As debates rage on regarding the government’s shifts under Musk and Trump, Senators and representatives are calling attention to what they view as a dangerous power shift within the government—prompting calls for action against the perceived unilateral maneuvers by the new administration.

In a controversial move, a range of nations supporting a two-state solution have expressed their apprehension towards Trump’s comments about Israel and Palestine—indicating that not all U.S. allies are aligned with the latest administration’s proposals in the Middle East.