The Education Department announced that the Health and Human Services Department, led by RFK Jr., will take over management of the School Emergency Response to Violence (Project SERV) grant program, which funds schools affected by shootings and disasters. The program has previously provided millions of dollars to schools such as Sandy Hook and Uvalde, and will now be administered through HHS under continued oversight by the Education Department. The move has faced criticism from union officials and some lawmakers, who express concern about shifting programs to agencies lacking specific educational expertise.
Stephen Miller, a senior White House adviser, maintains a broad and influential portfolio within the Trump administration, encompassing domestic and foreign policy priorities beyond his known role in immigration enforcement. His longevity and prominence are partly attributed to his status as an original member of Trump’s team and his extensive involvement in key policy initiatives. Meanwhile, Trump’s aggressive immigration policies have prompted significant legal challenges that test several amendments in the Bill of Rights, particularly regarding federal and state powers in immigration enforcement actions.
Following the Supreme Court's ruling that President Trump lacked authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs, he announced a new 15 percent global tariff under a different statute, which is expected to face legal challenges. The court's decision constrains the president's ability to use tariffs as a tool for revenue generation without clear congressional authority, particularly under statutes like Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act, which limits temporary import restrictions to specific economic conditions such as balance-of-payments deficits or currency stability. Legal uncertainties surrounding the new tariffs are anticipated to persist for at least a year, affecting consumers, businesses, and international trade relations.
Donald Trump issued a warning that countries attempting to exploit the U.S. following a recent Supreme Court decision will face higher tariffs and stricter measures, suggesting increased trade penalties for those he accuses of having “ripped off” the U.S. in the past.
President Donald Trump criticized the Supreme Court on social media after a 6-3 ruling declared his global tariffs illegal, asserting that the court's decision gave him more unilateral power. Despite the setback, Trump announced plans to impose a 15% tariff under a different legal authority and stated he would not seek congressional approval, while also threatening higher tariffs if other countries retaliate. Trump will face some justices at his State of the Union address, despite his negative remarks about them, and has indicated he might challenge other rulings, including those on birthright citizenship.
Stephen Miller, a longstanding and influential figure in the Trump administration, has a broad portfolio, including homeland security and immigration policy, which has contributed to his enduring presence in White House operations. His role extends beyond immigration enforcement, involving various domestic and foreign priorities, and he is considered one of the most persistent and indispensable officials from Trump's tenure. Additionally, the Trump administration's aggressive immigration policies have resulted in significant legal challenges testing various provisions of the Bill of Rights, particularly in Minnesota, where multiple amendments are involved in court disputes over immigration enforcement actions.
The U.S. Joint Chiefs warned President Trump that munitions stockpiles are nearly depleted, complicating potential military actions against Iran amid escalating tensions. Despite ongoing Israeli and U.S. military preparations, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and over 200 fighter jets in the Middle East, the White House has not yet made a final decision on strikes. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized vigilance and warned Tehran of a strong response if Israel is attacked.
The European Union has halted the ratification of its trade agreement with the U.S. to seek further clarity on upcoming U.S. tariffs amid tensions caused by President Trump's threat to impose a 15% global tariff. The EU officials express concerns over the volatility and potential violation of existing agreements, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to honor commitments and avoid tariff increases. The U.S. administration indicates ongoing negotiations, but the EU remains cautious, citing the importance of stability in transatlantic trade relations.
Stock markets declined as uncertainty over President Trump's new tariffs and a Supreme Court ruling against his previous trade measures unsettled investors, with US shares falling across the board. Trump announced plans to implement additional tariffs on imports, warning of further escalation, despite growing domestic opposition and public perception that tariffs have increased prices for consumers. Polls show majority support for the Supreme Court’s decision and widespread disapproval of Trump’s trade policies among American voters.
FBI Director Kash Patel's appearance at the U.S. men's hockey celebration during the Winter Olympics has renewed scrutiny of his personal travel use of government resources, particularly his trips aboard the FBI plane that critics argue are unnecessary for law enforcement. Despite his claims that his trips are for official purposes and that he reimburses the government, critics highlight concerns over the frequency and nature of his travels, which include visits to Italy and Pennsylvania. The incident has drawn political criticism and increased questions about the appropriateness of Patel's travel arrangements amid ongoing investigations and past concerns about government resource use.
Rep. Mike Thompson was selected as the designated survivor for the upcoming State of the Union address and will observe the speech from a secure location. He issued a statement criticizing the president's actions, alleging that he has worsened economic and legal issues in the country and calling for accountability. Thompson's guest at the event will be Napa veteran and local official Bernie Narvaez.
A South Dakota legislative committee advanced a bill that clarifies the state's abortion ban exception to specify that treatments for miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and fetal death are not considered abortions. Supporters, including the governor’s office and pro-life groups, aim to reduce ambiguity, while opponents such as medical associations and the ACLU warn that it could lead to confusion and limit necessary medical care. The bill, along with another proposal targeting abortion pill distribution, continues to move through the legislative process.
