Trump meets with oil executives at White House

President Donald Trump has met with oil executives at the White House to discuss his energy agenda.

ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods, Chevron CEO Mike Wirth and Ryan Lance from ConocoPhillips, attended the meeting, as well as Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Energy Secretary Chris Wright to discuss energy reform.

Mike Sommers, president of the lobbying group American Petroleum Institute said the executives appreciated the meeting to discuss "common-sense energy solutions Americans voted for."

The "solutions" included reform and increased offshore oil production, as well as splashing subsidies for electric vehicles. Tariffs were reportedly not discussed.

White House Assistant Press Secretary said that Trump "reaffirmed his commitment to restore America's energy dominance and drill, baby, drill," during the sit down.

Map shows where in US Trump admin could have military take control: Report

he Trump administration is considering a Pentagon-led buffer zone along a large section of the southern border, granting active-duty troops temporary authority to detain migrants who cross illegally, five U.S. officials familiar with the discussions told The Washington Post.

According to The Post's reporting, the proposal under review focuses on a 60-foot-deep strip of land along the border from New Mexico to California. The strip is located within the Roosevelt Reservation—federal land designated for border security by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1907.

While the Interior Department typically oversees the land, temporary jurisdiction of the Roosevelt Reservation has previously been transferred to the Pentagon, including during Trump's first term, to aid border wall construction. The reservation is distinct from other federal lands because it was designated explicitly for border enforcement, allowing for infrastructure projects such as fences, roads and surveillance systems without requiring new land acquisitions.

Read in full from Gabe Whisnant on Newsweek.

Trump set to sign executive order aimed at shutting down Education Department: Report

President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order Thursday aimed at shutting down the Department of Education, USA Today reports.

Trump is expected to sign the order at a White House ceremony in front of state education commissioners and Republican governors.

Formally closing the department will require an act of Congress, but the president's order will instruct education secretary, Linda McMahon, to take "all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Department of Education and return education authority to the States," according to the order, seen by the outlet.

Judge slams DOGE for using armed officers to force its way inside Institute of Peace

A federal judge has criticized the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for using armed law enforcement to gain access to the Institute of Peace building.

Judge Beryl Howell did not go as far as ruling to remove the DOGE officials from the institute or granting a temporary restraining order to reinstate USIP board members. However, Howell said that she was "offended" by how DOGE went about gaining access.

The court heard that the FBI had also threatened the removal of contracts from a private company and former contractor of USIP, which had a key to the building. The company complied, according to court filings.

"I have to say I'm offended on behalf of the Americans that did so much service for the country to be treated so abominably, not to say the directors on the board, and to threaten a private contractor and threaten people with private investigations even given the clear statutes versus the legal discussions about the power of the president," Howell said.

The judge said she needed more information before issuing a restraining order.

Defense secretary says 'we are appealing' judges order blocking trans military ban

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on Wednesday, "we are appealing," after a judge blocked the Trump administration's transgender military ban.

President Donald Trump signed a ban on openly transgender people serving in the military in an executive order in January, claiming that transgender troops negatively impact "excellence" and "readiness."

Hegseth later issued a memo saying that transgender people would no longer be allowed to enlist in the military while asserting that service members with gender dysphoria who are already in the military would be "treated with dignity and respect."

The DOD also requested last month that transgender troops be identified and separated.

On Tuesday, federal Judge Ana Reyes blocked the order ruling that Trump's directive likely violates the constitutional rights of transgender troops. She delayed enforcement of her ruling for three days, allowing the administration time to appeal.

"We are appealing this decision, and we will win," Hegseth in a post on X, Wednesday, as he shared a link to a news article on the judge's order.

Legal analyst 'stunned' amid Trump DOJ's move over migrant flights

CNN senior legal analyst and former prosecutor Elie Honig said he is "stunned" after a legal dispute over deportation flights continues between a federal judge and the Department of Justice.

Since his January 20 inauguration, President Donald Trump has implemented sweeping change, mainly through executive orders. One of his central pillars and campaign platforms was immigration.

Over the weekend, Trump implemented the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a wartime law that grants the commander-in-chief the authority to detain or deport non-citizens. Trump's border czar Thomas Homan announced on Sunday on X (formerly Twitter) that nearly 250 alleged MS13 and Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang members were deported.

The administration's announcement followed U.S. District Judge Jeb Boasberg's halting of deportation flights, prompting a legal debate.

While speaking to CNN's Jake Tapper on Wednesday, Honig discussed the DOJ rebuking Boasberg's directive to ask for more details about the deportation flights.

Read in full from Anna Commander on Newsweek.

'Democratic Sen. Slotkin says she's 'more than just an AOC' in jibe at progressive Congresswoman

Sen. Elissa Slotkin, a centrist Democrat who is being looked to as potential models of the Democratic Party's future, took aim at the progressive wing of her party, saying she's required to be "more than just an AOC."

Slotkin, delivered the Democratic response to Trump's address to Congress earlier this month, was asked if she would stand up to Trump like progressive Democrats Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

However, the Michigan senator dismissed AOC and Sanders, who as gone on a national tour to rally against Trump, as ineffectual "yelling."

"I get it that it makes people feel good to see people yelling," Slotkin said. "But not one of those words is stopping the actual things that Donald Trump is doing."

Slotkin added that she also wanted to represent the Trump voters in her state.

"My job is to be more than just an activist. It is to answer the call when there's an immigration raid and we need to figure out where our people are. All of those things require me to be more than just an AOC."

Energy secretary has had 'no discussion' about U.S. about taking over Ukrainian nuclear plants

Energy Secretary Chris Wright said today that he had not discussed any plans for the U.S. to take control of Ukraine's power plants, after President Trump discussed the idea with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky in their Wednesday call.

"No discussion about that right now," Wright told reporters at the White House.

"The United States and this president's agenda is more energy. More energy, ideally produced in the United States, but more energy to better lives and lower prices," Wright added.

Earlier today, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz said that Trump and Zelenskyy "discussed Ukraine's electrical supply and nuclear power plants" and the United States taking control of them.

WATCH: Rep. Ivey calls for new Democratic leadership after Schumer votes for GOP spending bill

Judge declines to block taxpayer info from being shared with immigration enforcement

The e Trump administration has confirmed that the Internal Revenue Service is actively discussing sharing taxpayers' information with the Department of Homeland Security, who can use it for deportations.

"There are ongoing discussions ... about information sharing" between the IRS and Homeland Security, Justice Department lawyer Andrew Weisberg said Wednesday during a D.C. Washington hearing.

Undocumented immigrants can pay taxes and register with the IRS, which is required to keep their information confidential with very few, specific exceptions.

District Judge Dabney Friedrich on Wednesday declined to issue an emergency order blocking the IRS from sharing the data. In her ruling on Wednesday, Friedrich said that the immigrant rights groups did not present enough evidence that Homeland Security's data requests would violate the law.

Democrat says it may be time for 'new leadership' amid Schumer backlash

Democratic Representative Glenn Ivey of Maryland said it may be time for Senate Democrats to pick new leadership, piling on the backlash faced by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer over his vote on a spending bill last week.

Schumer has faced mounting criticism from his own party after voting to back a continuing resolution bill from Republicans that he had previously said Democrats would not support.

The bill to keep the government open narrowly passed the Senate on Friday after passing the House earlier in the week. The minority leader's flip-flop on the measure has prompted calls from Democrats for him to give up his longtime leadership position.

During a Tuesday night town hall, Ivey said, "I was deeply disappointed that Senator Schumer voted with the Republicans. You know you're on bad ground...when you get a personal tweet from Donald Trump thanking you for your vote, right? We don't want to be there."

Read in full from Anna Commander on Newsweek.

Pentagon wants to send hundreds of troops at Guantánamo Bay home

The Pentagon is considering plans to cut U.S. troop levels at Guantánamo Bay by up to half, as President Donald Trump's migrant detention program has stalled amid legal challenges and there are currently no detainees at the facility, The Associated Press has learned.

Southern Command has been asked to provide Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth with a revised force assessment, determining how many troops are needed and what additional space may be required if new detainees arrive at the naval base in Cuba.

The proposal, according to U.S. officials, is expected to recommend sending some troops home, with one official suggesting the current force of 900 troops could be reduced by half.

Read in full from Gabe Whisnant on Newsweek.

Amtrack CEO steps down amid Elon Musk's calls to privatized

Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner announced Wednesday that he is resigning "to ensure that Amtrak continues to enjoy the full faith and confidence of this administration."

Gardner, who first joined Amtrak as an intern in the 1990s, is stepping down after President Trump ally Elon Musk suggested privatizing the service.

"I think logically we should privatize anything that can reasonably be privatized," Musk said at the Morgan Stanley conference on March 5. "I think we should privatize the Post Office and Amtrak for example. ... We should privatize everything we possibly can."

In response, Amtrak put out a document titled "Proposals to Privatize Amtrak" which pointed to the United Kingdom's decision to re-nationalize its railways after privatization led to inflated prices and poor service.

It also noted previous unsuccessful efforts to privatize various Amtrak, adding that the service set all-time records in ridership and revenue in fiscal 2024.

Shortly after the document was published, Gardner announced he was stepping down.

In a statement, Amtrak thanked their exiting CEO for his service and accomplishments, adding, "We look forward to working with President Trump and Secretary [of Transportation Sean] Duffy as we build the world-class passenger rail system this country deserves."

Trump gives Iran two months to reach new nuclear deal: Report

President Donald Trump told Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei he has two months to reach a new nuclear deal in his letter to him, CNN reports.

"President Trump made it clear to Ayatollah Khamenei that he wanted to resolve the dispute over Iran's nuclear program diplomatically – and very soon – and if this was not possible, there would be other ways to resolve the dispute," a spokesperson for the National Security Council told the network.

Trump wants to reach a deal with Iran to have more control over their nuclear program, something he also discussed with Vladimir Putin in their call on Tuesday.

Earlier this month, the president told Fox News that there "are two ways Iran can be handled: militarily, or you make a deal. I would prefer to make a deal, because I'm not looking to hurt Iran."

Trump has ramped up his rhetoric against Iran, after launch U.S. airstrikes on Houthis in Yemen, which he says are being backed by Iran.

On Monday he said Iran is "dictating every move, giving them the weapons, supplying them with money and highly sophisticated Military equipment, and even, so-called, 'Intelligence.' Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible, and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire!" Trump said.

ICE reveals how many deportations have been carried out under Trump

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) said Wednesday that just over 28,000 deportations were carried out in the first seven weeks of the Trump administration, after several weeks without official data updates.

The agency told Newsweek that it had removed 28,319 people from the U.S. interior between January 20 and March 11, averaging to around 3,887 per week, or 555 a day. When the figure is taken as just those immigrants detained by ICE agents, Trump would be outpacing Biden's removal numbers.

However, ICE has generally been responsible for removing those detained at the border, also. If the latest numbers include border removals, then the new administration is falling behind a weekly average of about 5,000 last year.

"The more data we have when it comes to immigration numbers, including arrests and removals of aliens unlawfully present in the United States, the better," Eric Ruark, director of research and sustainability at NumbersUSA, told Newsweek. "That being said, ICE's efforts right now should be on arrests and removals from the interior of the country. The numbers will follow in due course."

Read in full from Dan Gooding on Newsweek.

Donald Trump rips into new Fox News reporter

President Donald Trump took aim at Fox News' senior White House correspondent Jacqui Heinrich in a Truth Social post on Wednesday, criticizing her reporting and suggesting she would be better suited for CNN rather than the conservative cable news network.

"I watched Jacqui Heinrich from Fox over the weekend and thought she was absolutely terrible. She should be working for CNN, not Fox," Trump wrote. "Not surprisingly, I later found out that she's a fan of the White House Correspondents' Association!"

Trump appeared to be referring to a segment where Heinrich, filling in as the host of "Fox News Sunday," noted Tesla's concerns over Trump's tariff policies and questioned Republican Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio about Trump inspecting a Tesla in front of reporters at the White House.

Two trans women sent to men's prison under Trump's order, to be returned to female jail

A judge on Wednesday ordered the federal Bureau of Prisons to transfer two transgender women inmates back to federal women's prisons after they had been sent to a men's prison under President Donald Trump's executive order.

U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth in Washington issued the injunction and ordered the Prison Bureau to "immediately transfer" the women and continue to provide them with hormone therapy treatment for gender dysphoria, after the inmates joined ongoing litigation over the order.

The two trans women inmates said they lived in constant fear of sexual assault and other violence since being moved to the men's prison, according to court papers.

WATCH: Jerome Powell announces interest rates will remain 'unchanged'

Trump agrees Tesla vandalism is an act of terrorism

Donald Trump was being interviewed by Fox News' Laura Ingraham, when she asked him whether he considers the vandalism acts on Tesla cars and dealerships an "act of domestic terrorism."

"Sure, I think so," the president responded, before suggesting the backlash against Tesla, which is owned by Trump aide Elon Musk, was being funded by the left.

"If and when they catch the people and I hope they do... I think you will find out they're paid by people who are very highly political on the left."

Judge questions law enforcement response to U.S. Institute of Peace dispute

U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell raised concerns during an emergency hearing on Wednesday about the involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies in a dispute over the status of the U.S. Institute of Peace. Howell questioned whether the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) needed "armed law enforcement at the ready" to resolve the issue.

Referring to the use of law enforcement from three agencies, Howell asked, "Why those ways here? Just because DOGE is in a rush?" She expressed concern over the impact of such actions, suggesting they may have "terrorized" the staff at the institute. Howell also questioned whether the same objectives could be achieved through legal procedures and Congressional action rather than resorting to force.

U.S. Education Department concludes Maine violated Title IX over transgender athletes

A U.S. Department of Education investigation found that Maine's education office violated Title IX, the federal antidiscrimination law, by permitting transgender girls to participate in girls' sports and use girls' sports facilities.

The investigation, which began on February 21, concluded remarkably quickly. Civil rights investigations by the department typically take much longer, often spanning months or even years.

Maine's Democratic governor, who had a confrontation with President Trump on the issue during a February 21 White House meeting, responded by saying, "We'll see you in court." The Education Department's announcement also stated that Maine has 10 days to meet a list of demands, or the case will be referred to the Justice Department for prosecution.

Donald Trump and Joe Biden's FBI Most Wanted arrests compared

President Donald Trump's administration has captured three individuals on the Federal Bureau of Investigation's "Ten Most Wanted Fugitives" list nearly two months after Trump took office.

At this same point in time in former President Joe Biden's term, the FBI had not arrested any fugitives on the list. Four "Most Wanted" fugitives were arrested during Biden's presidency.

The FBI created the list in 1950 to notify the public about dangerous fugitives who might not otherwise merit nationwide attention.

FBI Director Kash Patel announced the capture of Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales on Tuesday.

Roman-Bardales was added to the "Most Wanted" fugitives list "for his alleged role in ordering numerous acts of violence against civilians and rival gang members, as well as his role in drug distribution and extortion schemes in the United States and El Salvador."

He was also an alleged senior leader of the gang MS-13.

Roman-Bardales is expected to be extradited from Mexico to the U.S. to face criminal charges.

Arnoldo Jimenez, a fugitive wanted on first-degree murder charges, was arrested on January 30, 2025. Five days prior, Donald Eugene Fields II was arrested on charges of child sex trafficking and child rape.

Four "Most Wanted" fugitives were arrested during Biden's presidency. Rafael Caro-Quintero, Octaviano Juarez-Corro and Michael James Pratt were arrested in 2022, while Jose Rodolfo Villarreal-Hernandez was arrested in 2023.

Read the full story by Jenna Sundel on Newsweek.

U.S. attorney drops assault case against Enrique Tarrio

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia has decided to drop an assault case against Enrique Tarrio, the Proud Boys member who had been serving a 22-year prison sentence for seditious conspiracy related to the January 6 Capitol attack. He was granted clemency by President Trump on his first day in office.

Tarrio, who was arrested last month after being seen swatting a phone from a protester's hand at a demonstration, was initially scheduled for a hearing in D.C. Superior Court. However, sources within the law enforcement community confirmed to NBC News and News4 WRC that the assault case against him was dropped by the U.S. Attorney's Office.

The office, led by Interim U.S. Attorney Ed Martin, is unique in its dual role of handling both federal and local criminal cases in Washington, D.C.

CDC and NOAA workers fired by Trump administration to continue receiving pay after court rulings

Probationary employees fired from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will continue to be paid to stay home after recent court rulings found legal issues with the Trump administration's mass firings.

Around 550 CDC employees were let go in mid-February and informed they would receive administrative leave pay through March 14. However, two federal judges ruled last week that these workers, along with others from different agencies, must be rehired. While the fired CDC employees have not been instructed to return to work, their administrative leave has been extended "until further direction is provided," according to an internal memo obtained by The Associated Press.

Ford worker detained by ICE faces death by torture, wife fears

The wife of a Ford worker detained by federal immigration authorities has told Newsweek her husband faces possible death if he is deported back to Nicaragua.

Alberto Lovo Rojas, a Nicaraguan who has lived in Spokane, Washington, since 2020, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on February 8, 2025, while on his way to get a haircut when three unmarked cars surrounded him. He is currently being held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma.

His wife, Dora Yisel Morales Diaz, told Newsweek in an exclusive statement that she feels "traumatized" as he faces torture if he is removed from the U.S.

"If my husband is deported, his life is at risk of being tortured to death. My husband only has one kidney and no spleen. He would not survive the torture or mistreatment meted out to government opponents," Yisel said.

Newsweek has contacted ICE and Ford for further comment.

Read the full story by Billal Rahman on Newsweek.

Fired CDC and NOAA workers being paid to stay home after court ruling

Probationary employees who were fired from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and NOAA are being fully paid to stay home after several court rulings over the Trump administration's mass firings.

Two federal judges ordered last week that the 550 fired workers at the CDC, along with laid off employees at other agencies, had to rehired.

The CDC staff have not been told to go back to work but have had their paid administrative leave extended indefinitely. They were originally only going to be paid through March 14.

A memo, seen by The Associated Press, stated that the CDC leave was extended "until further direction is provided."

A similar memo went out to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration_ employees.

Leavitt accuses judges of partisan activism, says they are hindering Trump's agenda

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized judges during her press briefing, accusing them of acting as "partisan activists" and attempting to slow down the Trump administration's agenda. She described recent rulings, particularly those blocking parts of Trump's sweeping policies on deportations and other issues, as "unacceptable."

While the administration will comply with court orders, Leavitt emphasized the intent to continue challenging these decisions in court. She also suggested that the "far left" is engaging in "judge shopping" to undermine the administration's efforts. The comments come after the Trump administration faced legal setbacks, including the blocking of an executive order banning transgender individuals from serving in the military.

Donald Trump's approval rating goes negative in another poll

President Donald Trump's approval rating has gone negative in another poll released Wednesday. Experts told Newsweek where his problem may be coming from.

Trump's approval rating had a longer honeymoon period this time around compared to his first time in office, but polls suggest his support is seeing cracks amid growing backlash to policies like tariffs and the firing of federal workers, as well as Americans shifting blame toward him on the current state of the economy.

His approval is a major indicator of his popularity and political strength ahead of upcoming policy battles and as the Republican Party gears up for the midterms when Democrats are hoping to pick up seats in the House of Representatives and Senate.

The new poll from YouGov and The Economist, which surveyed 1,618 adults from March 16 to March 18, 2025, showed Trump's approval as being underwater for the first time in a month.

Fifty percent of respondents said they disapprove of Trump's job performance, compared to 45 percent of those who said they still approve of his second term.

Read in full from Andrew Stanton on Newsweek.

Chinese American leaders condemn bill blocking student visas for Chinese nationals

A prominent group of Chinese Americans, known as the Committee of 100, has strongly criticized the proposed Stop CCP Visa Act, which seeks to block all Chinese nationals from obtaining U.S. student visas. The committee argues that the bill would harm U.S. innovation and lead to increased discrimination, including against Chinese Americans.

Introduced last week by Rep. Riley Moore, a Republican from West Virginia, the bill targets all Chinese students, citing concerns over espionage and intellectual property theft. The measure would apply to Chinese nationals regardless of their field of study or academic level.

Gary Locke, chair of the Committee of 100 and former U.S. ambassador to China, called the bill "self-defeating," stressing that it goes against American values of opportunity and progress. "Shutting the door on Chinese students weakens our leadership in science, technology, and innovation," Locke said in a statement.

Fed keeps rate the same amid predictions of slower growth, higher inflation

The Federal Reserve decided to keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged Wednesday.

The decision comes as the Fed forecasts slower growth this year that previously thought, while inflation and unemployment is expected to rise.

"Uncertainty around the economic outlook has increased," the Fed said in a statement released after its two-day meeting.

According to its economic projections, unemployment is expected to rise to 4.4% while inflation will rise to 2.7% from its current level of 2.5%. The target rate for both is below 2%.

However, the Fed said it still expects to cut rates twice this year.

U.S. will continue to provide aid, intelligence to Ukraine despite Putin's 'condition' for peace

The White House confirmed Wednesday that the U.S. is continuing to provide military aid and intelligence to Ukraine, despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's demand to end all foreign aid to the country.

Putin laid out a caveat for peace negotiations during his call with Trump Tuesday.

According to the Kremlin's readout of the call, Putin said "the key condition for preventing the escalation of the conflict and working towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means should be the complete cessation of foreign military aid and the provision of intelligence information to Kyiv".

The United States and much of Europe are among the 57 nations that have provided military aid to Ukraine since the Russian invasion just over three years ago. While Trump has threatened to pull American aid, and did pause military aid and intelligence to Ukraine after his Oval Office spat with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, the U.S. has renewed its supply and many other countries have doubled down in their support.

On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that, despite Putin's condition, intelligence sharing and military aid would continue.

Trump administration halts $175M in federal funding for Penn over transgender swimmer

The Trump administration has suspended $175 million in federal funding for the University of Pennsylvania following the participation of a transgender athlete in its swimming program, the White House announced Wednesday.

The Ivy League university is already under investigation by the Education Department, which was launched after Trump's executive order banning transgender athletes from competing in girls' and women's sports.

However, the suspension of funds is part of a separate review of discretionary federal funding for universities, involving money from the Defense Department and the Department of Health and Human Services. A spokesperson for Penn stated the university has not received any formal notification or details about the suspension.

Trump suggests U.S. ownership of Ukrainian power plants

During a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday, Trump suggested that the United States should take ownership of Ukraine's power plants to ensure their security.

According to a White House statement from Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, Trump said the U.S. could be "very helpful in running those plants with its electricity and utility expertise."

Trump added that "American ownership of those plants could be the best protection for that infrastructure."

White House calls on Supreme Court to support Boasberg impeachment

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt suggested on Wednesday that the Supreme Court should support Donald Trump's calls to impeach Judge James Boasberg.

Trump called for the impeachment of Boasberg earlier this week after the federal judge ordered the Department of Justice to provide more information on the deportation flights to El Salvador that he believes may have violated his federal order.

Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, in a rare moment of public dissent, spoke out against the impeachment calls, saying it was "inappropriate."

On Wednesday, Leavitt told reporters, "The president has made it clear that he believes [Judge Boasberg] in this case should be impeached. He has also made it clear he has great respect for the Chief Justice John Roberts.

"It is incumbent on the Supreme Court to rein in these activist judges. These partisan activists undermining the judicial branch."

She added that the Trump administration were working on fighting the case in court, and would likely take it to the Supreme Court.

"White House counsel and the DOJ are working on it, they're appealing these cases, and we will continue to use the full weight of the White House council's office and the president's team of lawyers to fight this in court because we know we will win. Even if we have to go all the way to the Supreme Court."

White House slams judges for 'usurping will of the president'

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt slammed "judges in this country' for "acting erroneously," after a federal judge ordered the DOJ to provide details about the deportation flights to El Salvador that appear to have violated his order.

"We have judges who are acting as partisan activists from the bench. They are trying to dictate policy from the President of the United States," Leavitt said in the White House press briefing. "They are trying to clearly slow walk this administration's agenda and it's unacceptable."

Leavitt said that the administration will "comply" with these orders, and "will continue to fight these battles in court."

"But it's incredibly apparent there is a concerted effort from the far left to judge shop, to pick judges who are clearly acting as partisan activists from the bench in an attempt to derail this president's agenda. We will not allow that to happen. Not only are they usurping the president's the will of the president and the chief executive of our country, but they are undermining the will of the American public," she said.

Tesla hit with another Canada snub

Telsa has been removed as a participant from one of the largest car shows in Canada.

Elon Musk's electric car company was barred from participating in the Vancouver International Auto Show after event organizers said that it would be prioritizing the safety of attendees and staff.

Tesla has already faced backlash from Canada due to Musk's prominent role within the Trump administration. President Donald Trump's tariff policy against Canadian trade with the U.S. has led to a rise in anti-American sentiment in the nation, and Musk's close proximity with Trump has had a knock-on effect on his company's reputation there.

In a statement on Tuesday, event organizers said that Tesla would no longer be participating in the Vancouver International Auto Show due to safety concerns.

The event's executive director Eric Nicholl said, "The Vancouver Auto Show's primary concern is the safety of attendees, exhibitors, and staff," and that "this decision will ensure all attendees can be solely focused on enjoying the many positive elements of the event."

Read in full from Theo Burman on Newsweek.

Trump has invited astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore to the White House

President Donald Trump has invited astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore to meet him at the White House after they returned from their nine month mission yesterday.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt spoke about the successful splashdown during Wednesday's press briefing, as she used the moment to take a swing at former president Joe Biden.

"These two incredible astronauts were only supposed to be up there for eights days but because of the Biden admin lack of urgency they ended up spending nine months in space."

She added that the president was looking forward to welcoming them both to the White House.

Zelensky agrees to halt strikes on Russian energy infrastructure: Report

Ukrainian President Zelensky has agreed to a temporary ceasefire on Russian energy assets, Bloomberg reports.

Zelensky reportedly told Donald Trump, during their Wednesday phone call, that he agreed to the ceasefire and that he would work to expand it.

Trump announced yesterday that Putin had accepted a proposal to pause all attacks on energy infrastructure for 30 days in the first step towards peace.

College issues travel warning amid ICE crackdown

Brown University issued a travel warning to international students and faculty after a staff member was deported to Lebanon by the Trump administration.

Newsweek reached out to Brown University for comment.

President Donald Trump, who pledged to deport millions of migrants without legal status, has granted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) expanded powers to operate at or near sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals and churches.

Claims have emerged that the Trump administration is ignoring court orders on deportations and conducting arrests with little transparency. The sharp rise in detentions and deportations has fueled debates over civil liberties and due process.

The Trump administration claims that Professor Rasha Alawieh, a Lebanese physician at Brown Medicine in Rhode Island, had "openly admitted" to supporting a Hezbollah leader and attending his funeral.

Alawieh, 34, was detained at Boston Logan International Airport on March 13 after returning from a two-week family trip to Lebanon. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents said they uncovered photos of Iran's supreme leader and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on Alawieh's phone.

On Monday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said that during her detainment, Alawieh told customs agents she had traveled to Beirut to attend Nasrallah's funeral.

Read the full story by Billal Rahman on Newsweek.

Trump warns Iran to stop supporting Houthis, says terror group will be 'completely annihilated'

President Donald Trump has warned Iran to stop sending supplies to the Houthis "immediately."

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that Iran had reduced its aid after the U.S. air strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, and after he threatened Iran, warning against support for Yemen's government and militant groups.

"Reports are coming in that while Iran has lessened its intensity on Military Equipment and General Support to the Houthis, they are still sending large levels of Supplies," he wrote Wednesday.

"Iran must stop the sending of these Supplies IMMEDIATELY. Let the Houthis fight it out themselves. Either way they lose, but this way they lose quickly."

Trump added that the Houthis will be "completely annihilated."

"Tremendous damage has been inflicted upon the Houthi barbarians, and watch how it will get progressively worse — It's not even a fair fight, and never will be. They will be completely annihilated!" he added.

DOGE gains control over USAID as senior official takes new role

A senior official from Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is now taking a leadership role at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), giving DOGE direct oversight of an agency it has aimed to dismantle.

Pete Marocco, a Trump political appointee who was deputy head of USAID, informed State Department staff of the change in an email obtained by The Associated Press. Marocco announced that he will now serve as the State Department's head of foreign assistance.

Marocco also stated that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has appointed Jeremy Lewin, a DOGE official, as deputy administrator for policy and programs at USAID and as chief operating officer. Lewin has worked closely with Musk's efforts at USAID and other federal agencies.

Romney and Manchin join Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget

Former Senators Mitt Romney and Joe Manchin have joined the Board of Directors for the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a non-partisan group focused on reducing the national deficit.

Romney, who retired last year after one term as a senator, frequently warned about the nation's rising debt, which is projected to hit $37 trillion by July. Manchin, who switched from Democrat to Independent last year, has also pushed for policies aimed at cutting the national debt and co-sponsored bipartisan bills with Romney to examine federal spending.

Maya MacGuineas, the group's president, praised both for their willingness to work across party lines to find fiscal solutions. The Committee has previously cautioned that Trump's proposed tax cuts could significantly increase the country's deficit over the next decade.

Why Elon Musk tried to buy missiles from Russia

Elon Musk, the world's richest man, said he tried to buy rockets from Russia as part of his goal to get a manned mission to Mars.

Speaking on the podcast Verdict with Ted Cruz, the Texas senator, the SpaceX owner discussed the company's early beginnings and how he could not originally afford some American-made parts for his spaceships.

The interview was recorded in the White House, as Musk had formed a core part of the second Trump administration in his role leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), looking to cut federal government bloat.

Musk said he had a vision of "green plants on a red background" as he began working to create rockets that could make it to Mars.

"The original plan was literally to take a bunch of the money from PayPal and, I guess by some people's definition, waste it with no profit on a non-profit thing," Musk said. "I wanted to spend a whole bunch of my money for free to get NASA's budget to be bigger so we could go to frigging Mars."

Read in full from Dan Gooding on Newsweek.

Justice Department pushes back against judge's request on deportation flights

The Justice Department is pushing back against a federal judge's request for more information about deportation flights to El Salvador, arguing on Wednesday that the court's actions are an overreach into executive authority.

The dispute stems from U.S. District Judge Jeb Boasberg's order to provide sealed information on the timing of the flights and the number of deportees sent under President Trump's use of the Alien Enemies Act, a law rarely invoked outside of wartime. Boasberg, who was appointed by President Obama, had blocked deportations under the act and questioned whether the administration had defied his order by allowing flights to proceed.

In court filings, the Justice Department claimed that the judge's actions encroach on "core aspects of absolute and unreviewable executive branch authority" in matters of national security and foreign relations. The department is considering invoking the "state secrets privilege" to withhold some of the requested information.

Boasberg, however, gave the administration until Thursday at noon to comply or justify withholding the information, stating that his request was necessary to determine if the government deliberately ignored the court's order. He also expressed skepticism that providing the information could compromise state secrets, given the public statements already made by administration officials.

The standoff highlights ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the judiciary over immigration policies and executive power.

Trump administration rebukes court's demand for deportation flight details

The Justice Department is pushing back against a federal judge's demand for more details on deportation flights to El Salvador this weekend, arguing Wednesday that the situation has "devolved into a picayune dispute" and the court should end its "continued intrusions" into executive authority, according to court documents reviewed by Newsweek.

Court papers filed on Wednesday by the U.S. Justice Department, called U.S. District Judge Jeb Boasberg's request for additional information on the planes' time of takeoff, departure, and occupancy, a "grave encroachments on core aspects of absolute and unreviewable Executive Branch authority relating to national security, foreign relations and foreign policy."

Trump invoked the the Alien Enemies Act on Saturday, which grants the president authority to deport non-citizens without appearing before a judge, among other wartime authorities. Shortly after he moved to deported around 250 people to El Salvador which Boasberg, a President Barack Obama appointee, sought to halt.

Boasberg later ordered the administration to answer questions under seal, including flight details and the number of deportees sent to a notorious El Salvador prison under Trump's order. The administration has argued that it had enough evidence, and there was enough of a national security risk, to remove dozens of immigrants quickly.

Read in full from Mandy Taheri and Gabe Whisnant on Newsweek.

Musk ramps up calls to impeach judges ruling against Trump

Elon Musk has posted 17 times in the last 24 hours calling for the impeachment of judges who have ruled against the Trump administration.

His comments come despite Chief Justice John Roberts' statement yesterday emphasizing that "impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision."

Musk claimed, without evidence, that "activists pretending to be judges" are abusing the legal system, calling their actions "a judicial coup." He concluded one of his posts by simply saying, "Impeach them."

UPenn has $175 million in federal funding paused over transgender athlete

The Trump administration has paused $175 million in federal funding to the University of Pennsylvania for allowing transgender women to play sport.

Donald Trump signed an executive order titled, "Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports," that states that the government would "rescind all funds from educational programs" that allow trans women to compete in women's sports.

As part of that order, it instructed agencies and executive departments to "review grants to educational programs and, where appropriate, rescind funding to programs that fail to comply with the policy established in this order."

On Wednesday, in a post on X, the White House's Rapid Response team said that it has paused $175 million in federal funding from UPenn "over its policies forcing women to compete with men in sports."

"Promises made, promises kept," it added.

UPenn was sued last month by former athletes on its women's swimming program as well as the Ivy League Council of Presidents and other athletic organizations, for allowing transgender athlete Lia Thomas to compete against them.

House Democrats ask SSA to reconsider ending phone verification

On Wednesday, 62 House Democrats sent a letter to Social Security Administration (SSA) acting commissioner Leland Dudek, expressing concern over the agency's plan to eliminate phone-based identity verification for applicants and recipients.

Starting March 31, those unable to verify their identity through the "my Social Security" online portal will be required to visit a field office in person.

The letter warned that limiting verification to online and in-person options could create obstacles, especially for people living far from field offices.

The lawmakers urged Dudek to reevaluate the decision to avoid harming vulnerable individuals.

Trump administration considering using state secrets act to block deportation judge

The Trump administration is considering invoking the state secrets act to prevent Judge James Boasberg from ordering more information about the three deportation flights to El Salvador over the weekend.

According to a filing Wednesday morning, the Department of Justice argued that that the United States judicial system did not outrank the president.

"The underlying premise of these orders, including the most recent one requiring the production of these facts ex parte today at noon, is that the Judicial Branch is superior to the Executive Branch, particularly on non-legal matters involving foreign affairs and national security," the filing read.

"The Government disagrees. The two branches are coequal, and the Court's continued intrusions into the prerogatives of the Executive Branch, especially on a non-legal and factually irrelevant matter, should end," it wrote.

Trump completes 'very good' hour-long call with Zelensky

President Donald Trump has just completed an hour-long call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office.

The call came after Trump spoke to Vladimir Putin for more than two hours yesterday, which ended in an agreement for a 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure.

In a post on Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump called his call with Zelensky, "very good," and confirmed it was focused on what he had discussed with Putin.

"Much of the discussion was based on the call made yesterday with President Putin in order to align both Russia and Ukraine in terms of their requests and needs," he wrote.

"We are very much on track, and I will ask Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, to give an accurate description of the points discussed."

Justice Department pushes back on judge's demands for deportation flight details

The Justice Department on Wednesday pushed back against a federal judge's demand for more information regarding flights transporting deportees to El Salvador. The department argued that the court should stop interfering with the executive branch's authority, marking a new chapter in the ongoing legal dispute between the Trump administration and U.S. District Judge Jeb Boasberg.

Boasberg, who was appointed by former President Barack Obama, had previously ordered the administration to provide confidential details, including flight takeoff and landing times and the number of individuals deported under a wartime declaration. The tension between the administration and the judiciary has been heightened by President Trump's call for the impeachment of the judge following a series of legal setbacks over his executive orders.

Trump to hold White House meeting with oil executives

President Donald Trump is holding a meeting with oil industry executives at the White House on Wednesday to discuss his energy agenda.

Trump has already begun scrapping many of the Biden era environmental protections and regulations on pollution, in favor of growing America's energy industry.

"President Trump's energy agenda has set our nation on a path toward energy dominance. We appreciate the opportunity to discuss how American oil and natural gas are driving economic growth, strengthening our national security and supporting consumers with the President and his team," an American Petroleum Institute spokesperson told ABC.

The meeting is set to take place at 2 p.m. ET.

Court rules to transfer case of detained Mahmoud Khalil to New Jersey

A U.S. District Court in New York has ruled to transfer the case challenging the unlawful detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a recent Columbia graduate student and lawful permanent resident, to New Jersey. This decision comes after the Trump administration sought to have the case moved to Louisiana. The court also reaffirmed a previous ruling blocking Khalil's deportation without a court order.

Khalil, who was detained by ICE after engaging in activism for Palestinian rights, has been the focus of legal battles, with his defense team arguing that his arrest and detention violate constitutional protections. The lawsuit claims the administration attempted to manipulate jurisdiction by transferring Khalil across state lines. His legal team is seeking his release on bail and urging the court to issue an injunction preventing his deportation.

The court's decision is seen as a critical step in ensuring the protection of Khalil's rights and preventing further government overreach. His legal team, including the Center for Constitutional Rights, ACLU, and others, vow to continue fighting for his release and the defense of free speech.

Joe Biden named in JFK files: What to know

Tuesday saw the release of the remaining files related to the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy. These included details of a letter sent in 1994 to then-Senator Joe Biden, which described him as a "traitor" and was signed "John F. Kennedy Jr."

An investigation conducted at the time found no evidence the deceased president's son sent the letter, and the document was already in the public domain due to a prior freedom of information request.

President Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963, in Dallas is one of the most well-known events in modern American history. The subsequent Warren Commission concluded the assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald, acted alone, though various theories alleging a wider conspiracy have remained popular with the American public.

After it resurfaced thanks to Tuesday's document release, the letter was shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Biden critics, including Russell Brand and Newsmax host David J. Harris Jr., where it went viral, racking up millions of views.

Read in full from James Bickerton on Newsweek.

Ukraine and Russia announce prisoner swap as Trump and Zelensky prepare to speak

Ukraine and Russia have announced a prisoner swap moments before Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepare for a phone call, the New York Times reports.

Russia's defense ministry confirmed the exchange of 175 Ukrainian prisoners of war for an equal number of Russian soldiers, along with 22 severely injured Ukrainian prisoners who require urgent medical care. Zelensky confirmed the swap in a social media statement, assuring that the freed Ukrainians would receive medical and psychological assistance.

The swap follows Russian President Putin's commitment during his call with Trump to return seriously wounded prisoners as a goodwill gesture, with Zelensky continuing to push for such exchanges as part of any cease-fire.

Wisconsin's $59 million election is referendum on Trump and Musk

Wisconsin voters began casting their ballots this week in a high-stakes state Supreme Court election that has become a microcosm of the nation's political battles—one supercharged by record-breaking spending from deep-pocketed donors, including billionaire Elon Musk.

The contest between Republican-backed Brad Schimel and Democratic-supported Susan Crawford has drawn national attention, with millions pouring in from both conservative and liberal megadonors. At stake: the ideological balance of the court, which could soon weigh in on pivotal cases involving abortion, voting rights, immigration, and even former President Donald Trump's political future.

With early voting underway, Wisconsin residents voiced concerns over how national interests are influencing the race. Some voters cited the court's potential role in abortion rights and election laws, while others decried the flood of outside money swaying a state-level judicial contest.

Maggie Freespirit, 58, a retired electrician from Madison said she voted for Crawford because she knows the Democratic-backed candidate will support abortion rights.

"I'm still amazed at how many people are supporting what the Republicans are doing," she told The Associated Press.

Read the full story by Barney Henderson on Newsweek.

Nonprofit sues to prevent removal, block Musk's agency takeover

The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) filed a lawsuit late Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Washington to prevent its removal and block Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from taking over the building and systems of the independent nonprofit.

The lawsuit describes how USIP staff called the police in an attempt to prevent DOGE representatives from accessing its headquarters. The action follows a recent executive order from Trump targeting USIP and three other agencies for large-scale reductions.

The lawsuit also accuses the White House of illegally firing board members via email and claims that the remaining board members ousted USIP President George Moose.

Trump set to speak with Zelensky after Putin call

A White House official announced that Trump is scheduled to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky by phone within the next 30 minutes.

On Tuesday, Trump had a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who agreed to temporarily halt strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. However, Putin did not commit to a U.S.-backed 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine had already agreed to.

Justice Department challenges judge's orders on flight data

The Justice Department is pushing back against a recent ruling by Judge Boasberg, arguing that his orders to release flight data represent judicial overreach into executive branch matters.

In an emergency request for a stay, department lawyers contended that Boasberg's orders, which include a directive to provide flight data by noon, place the judiciary above the executive branch, particularly on issues related to national security and foreign affairs.

EU announces plan to reduce security reliance on the U.S.

The European Union unveiled its "Readiness 2030" security strategy on Wednesday, aiming to reduce its defense dependency on the United States and enhance European military capabilities. The plan, driven by the threat of Russian aggression, encourages EU nations to purchase defense equipment primarily from European suppliers. The strategy also includes provisions to assist with cost reductions and faster procurement processes. Currently, about two-thirds of EU defense purchases are made by U.S. companies.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need for the EU to strengthen its defense base, foster innovation, and create an EU-wide defense market. The new approach aligns with previous EU efforts, such as the RepowerEU initiative, to reduce dependence on Russian resources. The EU also plans to provide support to Ukraine's defense industry and continue aid for its ongoing conflict with Russia.

The strategy also reflects a shift in U.S. priorities, as indicated by the Trump administration's focus on domestic and Asian security. The EU aims to boost ties with NATO allies, particularly those outside the EU, and address security needs through joint defense projects.

US reveals intelligence data trove on China and North Korea

United States reconnaissance aircraft deployed at a military hub in the Western Pacific Ocean has collected thousands of hours of intelligence data about China and North Korea.

Newsweek has reached out to the Chinese Defense Ministry for comment by email. The North Korean Embassy in Beijing did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The U.S. Air Force operates various spy planes, including the RC-135V/W Rivet Joint, from Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, a Japanese island that is part of the first island chain. The blockade is a U.S. defense concept designed to counter threats from adversaries.

Using open-source flight tracking data, Newsweek has mapped U.S. spy flights from Kadena Air Base to international airspace off the coast of China over the East China Sea and the South China Sea, as well as near North Korea's border over the Korean Peninsula.

According to the U.S. Air Force 18th Wing, which is the host aviation unit for Kadena Air Base, the 82nd Reconnaissance Squadron has been conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions in the Indo-Pacific region since its arrival at the base in 1968.

The squadron's primary mission is to secure "our strategic military advantage in the Pacific theater" by providing vital intelligence, the 18th Wing said in a press release on March 12.

Read the full story by Ryan Chan on Newsweek.

Kremlin spokesman says Putin and Trump have mutual trust

Dmitri S. Peskov, the Kremlin's spokesman, stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump "trust each other" and are committed to restoring relations between their two countries, The New York Times reported. Peskov emphasized that both leaders have a "solid will" to improve ties and "understand each other very well."

The Kremlin also accused Ukraine of breaching an alleged agreement to halt strikes on energy facilities, despite no formal deal being signed. Peskov pointed to an oil refinery in southern Russia being targeted by Ukrainian drones as evidence of the violation.

Judge rejects Trump administration's effort to dismiss Khalil case

A federal judge has rejected the Trump administration's attempt to dismiss the habeas petition of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist, or move the case to Louisiana. Instead, the judge ruled that the "exceptional" case should be transferred to the District of New Jersey.

Federal judge faces impeachment calls after ruling against Trump's deportation plans

Judge James "Jeb" Boasberg, the federal judge who recently ruled against former President Trump's deportation plans, has found himself at the center of political controversy, with some calling for his impeachment. Boasberg, who has served on the federal bench for 14 years, is no stranger to high-profile and politically charged cases.

In addition to handling disputes stemming from the Trump-Russia investigation, Boasberg oversaw reforms to national security surveillance practices within the Justice Department. He also sentenced numerous rioters involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection.

A former homicide prosecutor and Yale University basketball player, Boasberg has built a reputation as a fair and principled jurist, earning bipartisan respect. Appointed to the federal bench by President Barack Obama in 2011, he was also nominated to a seat on the D.C. Superior Court by President George W. Bush a decade earlier.

Trump to receive intelligence briefing, press briefing scheduled for later

The White House press office says Trump will receive an intelligence briefing at 11 a.m. ET today.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will hold a press briefing at 1 p.m. ET to address additional matters.

Duffy teases upcoming announcement on transportation system upgrades

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has hinted that an announcement regarding upgrades to the nation's aging transportation system could come within the next few days. Speaking on Fox News Channel's Fox & Friends, Duffy acknowledged that while the system remains safe, "we're seeing the cracks of age."

He emphasized that speed is crucial and called on Congress to allocate the necessary funds upfront. While Duffy did not provide a cost estimate, he mentioned plans to discuss the issue with President Trump and share further details with Congress, hoping for quick financial approval.

Recent incidents, including a deadly mid-air collision over the Potomac River and various crashes and near-misses, have raised concerns among air travelers about the safety of the system.

'Sabotage': Russia accuses Ukraine over Trump-Putin agreement

Russia has accused Ukraine of trying to "sabotage" an agreement not to strike energy infrastructure made on the call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made the comment to Russian state news agency TASS. He was referring to reports of Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil facilities in Kuban.

Trump is trying to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine. He wants to end the death and destruction caused by Russia's invasion, and the financial burden on American taxpayers of supporting Ukraine's defense.

There are large disagreements between Moscow and Kyiv over the division of territory and the future of Ukrainian security. Ceasefires are seen as a crucial first step toward a negotiated peace—but they are extremely fragile and trust is near-zero.

Trump plans new tariffs on most imports, calling April 2 'liberation day'

The White House is preparing to impose new tariffs on most U.S. imports starting April 2, as Trump calls the date "Liberation Day," The Washington Post reported. The move could escalate global trade tensions, with administration officials reportedly planning duties on "trillions" of dollars in imports.

Since taking office, Trump has already raised tariffs on roughly $800 billion worth of goods from China, Mexico, and Canada, triggering market turmoil and raising recession risks. Despite concerns from economists and congressional Republicans, Trump's team, including Vice President JD Vance and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, is moving ahead with a broader tariff regime.

Trump says the new "reciprocal tariffs" will pressure trading partners to lower their duties on U.S. goods and encourage companies to bring production back to the U.S. However, experts warn that these measures could further harm the economy and invite international retaliation.

Trump accelerates Supreme Court push to expand deportation powers

Trump is pursuing a coordinated strategy to push the Supreme Court to endorse broader deportation powers with fewer judicial limits, Axios reported, citing top officials. His administration is using two high-profile cases to raise five legal questions that could redefine the president's authority on immigration.

One case involves invoking the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport Venezuelan gang members without hearings, while the other uses the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 to detain pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, whom the administration deems a national security threat.

The administration wants the Supreme Court to determine whether a peacetime president can use wartime deportation powers and if a federal judge can block deportation programs or extend rulings beyond U.S. borders.

Trump's team is also exploring denaturalization cases targeting naturalized citizens accused of supporting Hamas. Critics argue the administration's approach threatens free speech and due process, especially on college campuses. Despite the controversy, Trump's allies believe a Supreme Court with six conservative justices will ultimately back their efforts.

Tesla showrooms and vehicles targeted in nationwide attacks

Attacks on Tesla properties and vehicles have surged across the U.S. and abroad, with incidents involving Molotov cocktails, gunfire, and arson reported in multiple cities. While no injuries have been reported, showrooms, charging stations, and privately owned Teslas have been targeted. In Canada, Tesla was even removed from an international auto show due to safety concerns.

The violence has escalated since Donald Trump's second term began, with critics of Elon Musk, who now oversees the Department of Government Efficiency, organizing peaceful protests while some extremists resort to vandalism. Authorities in several states have charged suspects in connection with these attacks, including a Colorado woman accused of throwing Molotov cocktails and spray-painting "Nazi cars" on a Tesla building.

In Las Vegas, several Teslas were torched outside a service center, with "resist" painted across the entrance. FBI Special Agent Spencer Evans said the attacks may have a political motive but cautioned that investigations are ongoing.

Musk has condemned the violence, claiming some of the attacks are "organized and funded" by left-wing groups. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced a federal investigation into the funding and coordination behind the vandalism, warning that perpetrators will face severe consequences.

U.S. halts Russia sabotage monitoring under Trump administration

Several U.S. national security agencies have paused efforts to counter Russian sabotage, disinformation, and cyberattacks since Donald Trump took office, according to current and former officials, Reuters reported. The initiative, originally led by President Joe Biden's National Security Council (NSC), involved at least seven agencies working with European allies to disrupt Russian hybrid warfare efforts.

The coordinated effort, which included regular meetings between the NSC, the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department, has largely come to a standstill. Reuters, citing former officials, reported that the incoming Trump administration was briefed on the initiative but chose not to prioritize it. The FBI also recently ended its work to counter foreign interference in U.S. elections, while the Department of Justice disbanded a team focused on seizing Russian oligarch assets.

White House spokesperson Brian Hughes stated that the administration continues to assess and respond to threats against the U.S., but multiple officials expressed concern that deprioritizing these efforts leaves the country vulnerable to Russian operations. Western intelligence agencies have warned that Russia is likely to continue its hybrid warfare campaign, which has included sabotage, arson, and disinformation aimed at undermining U.S. and European support for Ukraine.

DOGE cuts hit American fishermen hard: 'I'm scrambling'

Commercial fishermen across the U.S. say that the federal funding they relied on to upgrade to lower-carbon emission systems has been frozen or rescinded due to budget cuts by President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The cuts impact funding for replacing outdated diesel engines and at-sea refrigeration systems—projects that environmentalists argue would reduce the seafood industry's carbon footprint.

Many are now scrambling to find alternative financing to complete projects they had already started with the expectation of government support.

The decarbonization of the fishing fleet has been a growing priority in recent years.

According to a 2016 study published in Marine Policy, fishing vessels globally emitted more than 200 million tons of carbon dioxide. While this is lower than agricultural emissions, it remains a significant contributor to global warming.

With worsening storms and 2024 recorded as the hottest year in history, reducing fossil fuel dependence across industries has been critical in climate change mitigation efforts, scientists say.

However, transitioning to climate-friendly equipment can cost fishermen tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, prompting many to seek financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

DOGE, established to cut waste and fraud in federal spending, has targeted these agencies for reductions, leaving some fishermen without the financial support they had counted on.

Read the full story by Shane Croucher on Newsweek.