The Trump administration is advancing its plan to incentivize undocumented immigrants to leave the U.S. voluntarily. The Department of Homeland Security announced a new initiative offering $1,000 plus travel costs to those who utilize the CBP Home app to declare their self-deportation. This move is part of an intensified approach to immigration enforcement.
On social media, President Donald Trump discussed plans to reopen and expand the infamous Alcatraz prison to bolster his law and order agenda, and floated a 100% tariff on foreign-made films, though it’s unclear how this would be implemented. Trump also accused Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum of being overly cautious regarding drug cartels after she dismissed his proposal to send U.S. troops to aid in combating them. During an NBC interview, Trump expressed uncertainty over the constitutional due process rights of U.S. citizens and noncitizens.
In a separate development, Trump signed an executive order aimed at halting “dangerous gain-of-function research,” eliminating federal funding for such projects, particularly in countries like China. While Trump asserted that COVID-19 originated from a Chinese lab, this theory remains unproven. The order seeks to ensure research complies with U.S. standards.
The administration has also targeted Harvard University, withhold federal grants until the institution addresses management and compliance issues. This follows an earlier freeze on $2.2 billion in grants and a push to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status.
In a broader cultural shift, Trump has proposed eliminating the National Endowment for the Arts, leading to a withdrawal of funding for various programs and encouraging staff resignations. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed a 20% reduction in top military leadership positions to streamline and optimize defense department operations.
A legal battle has emerged as Washington attorney Mark Zaid files suit against the administration for revoking his security clearance. The lawsuit claims this move hampers his ability to represent clients needing access to classified information.
Seventeen states are suing the Trump administration to challenge an executive order stalling wind energy projects, arguing the president lacks authority to unilaterally disrupt the permitting process. This legal challenge underscores the conflict over Trump’s energy policy.
In the private sector, Trump is hosting a fundraising dinner at his golf club to support cryptocurrency and AI innovation. Attendees, including top investors in Trump’s memecoin, will contribute significantly to the event’s funding.
Amid international relations, Trump prepares to meet with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, despite previous tensions over trade and statehood rhetoric. On immigration, Trump suggests a potential legal path for those who self-deport and might later wish to return.
Trump’s call to reopen Alcatraz is tied to its symbolism of strong law enforcement, aiming to house dangerous criminals. Simultaneously, he disavows involvement with an AI-generated controversial image of himself.
The president aims to discuss a potential 100% tariff on foreign films with industry representatives, asserting it could rejuvenate the U.S. film industry. However, no concrete schedule has been set for these talks.
Amid federal workforce reductions, Everett Kelley of the American Federation of Government Employees warned that drastic staffing cuts threaten the union’s ability to serve its members, endangering its existence.
Collaboratively, Trump and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser confirmed Washington would host the 2027 NFL draft, a move expected to boost the local economy, despite their historical disagreements.
In addressing environmental policies, Trump’s administration faces pressure from Democratic senators to maintain habitat protections for endangered species, a linchpin of the Endangered Species Act.
Trump has announced he’s pursuing opportunities to boost U.S. leverage over Russia through a mineral agreement with Ukraine, emphasizing economic partnerships in tenuous geopolitical landscapes.
The White House agenda features Trump hosting a prominent Russian-American, Ksenia Karelina, who returned following a prisoner swap. This reflects ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
European leaders, including French President Macron and European Commission’s von der Leyen, are seizing opportunities to attract researchers in light of the U.S. withdrawing funding for diversity-related initiatives.
In financial markets, oil prices fell after OPEC+ announced increased production, a move speculated to align with Trump’s energy objectives ahead of his Middle East visit. This has impacted global oil market dynamics significantly.
Trade policies underscore broader Trump administration goals to dismantle barriers impacting U.S. exports, involving aspects from agricultural standards to currency exchange rates.
Acknowledging Pence’s dedication to constitutional principles, the JFK Library honored the former Vice President for his integrity during pivotal political moments, reinforcing the importance of upholding democratic values.