NAVAL ACADEMY’S FIRST FEMALE SUPERINTENDENT BEING REASSIGNED: Vice Adm. Yvette Davids, the first woman and Hispanic person to lead the U.S. Naval Academy, is being reassigned after just 18 months in the latest Trump-era change at the Annapolis military college, according to USNI News. Ellie Wolfe and Alex Mann/The Baltimore Banner.

IN REVERSAL, SENATORS ADVANCE PLAN FOR FBI IN REAGAN BLDG: The FBI notched a victory Thursday in its quest for a new headquarters in downtown D.C., as a key Senate committee advanced the agency’s request to pay for its relocation with cash set aside to build a suburban campus in Maryland. Erin Cox/The Washington Post.

Republican senators in Congress squashed Sen. Chris Van Hollen’s attempt to keep the Trump administration from using funds set aside for the FBI headquarters for anywhere other than a relocation to Greenbelt. Brenda Wintrode/Baltimore Banner

MOORE SIGNS ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ORDER, AMID FEDERAL ANTI-DEI PUSH: In 2022, Maryland released its Environmental Justice Screening tool, a map that allowed users to view data on pollution burdens and health metrics Census tract by Census tract. In an executive order signed Thursday at Baltimore’s Living Classrooms campus in Harbor East, Gov. Wes Moore (D) ordered his administration to “use this new, improved, data-driven map to inform their policy work and to inform the decisions of their agencies and departments.” Speakers called it a first-ever executive order in the state on environmental justice. Christine Condon/Maryland Matters.

It was a busy public schedule for Maryland Gov. Wes Moore on Thursday as he made his way from Baltimore before ending in Annapolis to talk taxes . Kate Amara/WBAL-TV.

MOORE GIVES $50 MILLION IN GRANTS FOR B’MORE’S VACANT BUILDINGS: So far this month, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has announced nearly $58 million in grants across the state, most of which comes from a renewed push to clean up vacant properties in Baltimore City. Carson Swick/The Baltimore Sun.

PIEDMONT POWER LINE LANDOWNERS REMAIN FIRM IN OPPOSITION: With more legal filings expected as PSEG seeks to gain access to private property as part of its power line proposal, state legislators and area landowners remain firmly opposed to the project, angered by how the efforts have unfolded so far with the utility company. Natalie Jones/The Baltimore Sun.

HUNDREDS BRING ‘GOOD TROUBLE’ RALLY TO STATE HOUSE STEPS: Carl Snowden looked out at the crowd of hundreds of peaceful, sign-carrying protesters gathered on Lawyers Mall in the oppressive heat of a late July afternoon and liked what he saw. And he thought John Lewis would have liked it, too. Sam Gauntt/Maryland Matters.

NAACP LEADERS SUSPENDED AMID FINANCIAL SCANDAL, FACING YEARS-LONG BANS: The NAACP is facing turmoil as two of Maryland’s top leaders have been suspended amid financial allegations. At a community meeting in West Baltimore, residents learned of the latest leadership losses within the organization. Jeff Abell/Fox News.

POLITICIANS WANT MORE TAXPAYERS TO CLAIM TAX CREDITS: Top Maryland officials are partnering with a nonprofit research organization to plan a campaign encouraging all eligible Maryland tax filers to claim their Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs). Hannah Gaskill/the Baltimore Sun.

Maryland’s chief tax collector said she is focused on returning tax dollars to the tens of thousands of low-income families who are failing to claim tax credits for which they are eligible. Bryan Sears/Maryland Matters.

EX AACO RESERVE OFFICER CHARGED WITH THREATENING MARJORIE TAYLOR GREENE FAMILY: A former Anne Arundel County reserve officer was arrested Thursday on charges that he made threatening calls to the Georgia offices of Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Michael Kunzelman, Associated Press/The Baltimore Banner.

FREDERICK BILL COULD BE ‘PANDORA’S BOX’ OF DATA CENTERS SAY OPPONENTS: A bill before the Frederick County Council intended to limit data centers could open Pandora’s Box according to opponents, and force the county to rely on the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project. Nathanael Miller/WYPR-FM.

HOW MO CO WILL ENFORCE ITS NEW HOUSE PARTY LAW: Montgomery County Councilmembers Andrew Friedson (D-Dist.1) and Dawn Luedtke (D-Dist. 7) joined with county officials and police Thursday in Rockville to tout the council’s passage of a law with stricter regulations for commercial events held in private residences and other venues and higher fines for those who violate them. Max Schaeffer/Bethesda Today.

HO CO SCHOOLS DESCRIBE REDISTRICTING OPTIONS AMID COMMUNITY PROTEST: A crowd gathered in front of the Howard County Department of Education Thursday, urging the Board of Education to “keep Centennial schools together” ahead of a report outlining three potential redistricting scenarios. Kiersten Hacker/The Baltimore Sun.

$12.6 MILLION FEDERAL GRANT FOR HO CO HEAD START: The Community Action Council of Howard County received a $12.6 million federal Head Start grant, allowing it to provide Early Head Start for the first time, the organization announced Wednesday. Kiersten Hacker/The Baltimore Sun.

GOVERNOR’S BUY LOCAL COOKOUT HIGHLIGHTS THE SHORE: Moore and attendees had the opportunity to visit each stall to try the local fare. Guests were given a small red festival ticket to vote for their favorite dish, and at the end of the night, Faidley’s Seafood of Baltimore came out on top with their crispy Maryland catfish sliders. Lily Tierney/The Star Democrat.

Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.

President Donald Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law today, in first legislative win since returning to office. The law, named after a 22-year-old nursing student who was killed by a Venezuelan migrant, is the latest initiative aimed at fulfilling Trump’s immigration campaign promises, including mass deportations and stricter border measures. It allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain migrants charged with theft, burglary, shoplifting, or larceny offenses, regardless of their immigration status. It also grants state attorneys general the ability to sue the Secretary of Homeland Security if those migrants are not detained. During the executive order signing, Trump credited his immigration crackdown for his election victory, saying “that’s why I’m here instead of somebody else.” Riley’s mother, Allyson Phillips, broke down in tears as the act was signed into law, saying, “What we are hoping for is that her life saves lives.” Today’s highlights The White House rescinded the freeze on federal grants and loans after facing furious backlash from both sides of the aisle.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced tough questions from both Republicans and Democrats during his first confirmation hearing on Wednesday. The health secretary nominee struggled to defend his stance on vaccines and Medicaid.

Trump signs executive order for Guantanamo Bay to detain 30,000 undocumented migrants.

The president also signed orders to defund schools teaching critical race theory or gender issues. Newsweek’s live blog is closed.

08:03 PM EST Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defends revoking Mark Milley’s security clearance Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has defended his decision to revoke General Mark Milley’s security detail and clearance Milley had served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under both former President Joe Biden and President Donald Trump during his first term. But Trump frequently clashed with Milley who became an outspoken critic of the president. Biden issued a pre-emptive pardon for Milley, and several other potential targets of Trump’s retribution including Dr. Anthony Fauci and Sen. Adam Schiff, in his final days in office. In his first interview as defense secretary, Pete Hegseth defended revoking Milley’s security clearance and even removing his portrait from the department wall. “We have the opportunity to review things he may have done inside the chain of command while President Trump was president that undermined those authorities, so security clearance, in the interim, is revoked,” he said on Fox News. “There will be a review of the rank he will retain upon retirement, and he’ll have that process.”

07:45 PM EST New York Mayor Eric Adams’s lawyer ‘contacts DOJ about dropping case against him’ New York City Mayor Eric Adams is pictured during a press conference at City Hall on December 12, 2024. New York City Mayor Eric Adams is pictured during a press conference at City Hall on December 12, 2024. Michael M. Santiago New York Mayor Eric Adams’s lawyer has contacted the Justice Department to request it drops the criminal case against him, NBC News reports. Adams pleaded not guilty in September to federal corruption and bribery charges. Attorneys for high-profile clients can sometimes reach out to the DOJ after a change in political administration. But NBC reports that there is no indication federal prosecutors in Manhattan plan to drop the case.

07:31 PM EST Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wants to change how SNAP benefits are used Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. President Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services testifies during his Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on January 29, 2025 in… Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. President Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services testifies during his Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on January 29, 2025 in Washington, DC. More Win McNamee/Getty Images During a confirmation hearing on Wednesday to become head of the Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. spoke about his ideas for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). His response stemmed from a Senate Finance Committee question on how he would incorporate nutrition-based interventions into healthcare programs like Medicaid and Medicare. Kennedy’s proposed reforms focused on the high prevalence of diet-related diseases among low-income Americans who rely heavily on SNAP benefits. By reorienting SNAP toward healthier options, he believes these adjustments could substantially alleviate the burden of chronic diseases across the country. In his testimony, Kennedy emphasized the critical role that government programs can play in enhancing the nation’s health, starting with what people eat. “The federal funding of the SNAP program, for example, and of school lunch programs could be a driver for helping kids,” Kennedy explained. He criticized the current state of these programs, which often prioritize processed foods and sugary drinks, highlighting a misalignment with nutritional needs. “We shouldn’t be giving 60 percent of the kids in school processed food that is making them sick… We shouldn’t be spending 10 percent of the SNAP program on sugar drinks. We have a direct ability to change things there,” Kennedy argued. Read in full from Claire Dickey on Newsweek.

07:18 PM EST OMB memo reportedly sent without approval of key White House officials The Office of Management and Budget memo that ordered a freeze of federal grants and loans, sparking panic among millions of Americans, was published without the approval of several White House officials, the New York Times reports. The order was not show to Trump’s top aide and policy adviser, Stephen Miller, or the White House Secretary of Staff Will Scharf, before it was sent out to federal agencies. It has since been rescinded amid fierce backlash from both sides of the aisle, as well as an order from a federal judge and multiple lawsuits, making it one of the most chaotic, sweeping orders the Trump administration has issued so far.

07:05 PM EST Donald Trump school choice executive order: Here’s who’s impacted President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order to expand school choice across the country. While this policy could allow more students access to alternatives outside of public schooling, critics warn it might divert essential funding from public schools and exacerbate educational inequalities. Trump’s executive order directs the Department of Education to prioritize school choice initiatives when awarding grants. The order also gives states guidance on how they can use federal funding to support school voucher programs and other alternatives such as charter schools and private school tuition assistance. It also instructs the Defense Secretary to present a plan for military families to use Department of Defense funds for school choice, and the Interior Secretary to submit a plan for families with children attending Bureau of Indian Education schools to use federal funds for their preferred schools. Read in full from Robert Thorpe on Newsweek.

06:54 PM EST WATCH: Moment Trump signs Laken Riley Act into law

06:46 PM EST Federal judge says he will issue temporary restraining order to block federal aid freeze A federal judge said he plans to issue a temporary restraining order to block the Trump administration from freezing federal aid. On Wednesday, the Trump administration rescinded Monday’s memo from the White House budget office amid fierce, bipartisan backlash against the proposed freeze. The order had already been temporarily been paused by another judge, until next Monday. Today, Judge James McConnell Jr. said he was concerned about the millions of people who would be affected if the freeze was allowed to go ahead, ABC News reported. He said he sided with attorney generals for 22 states and the District of Columbia who filed a lawsuit that claimed that the harm from the proposed freeze was continuing. McConnell also dismissed claims that a restraining order wasn’t necessary because the memo was no longer in force, after White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, insisted the memo had been rescinded but it was “NOT a rescission of the federal funding freeze.” The judge has asked the states to draft a new temporary restraining order, which he pledged to sign.

06:33 PM EST Pentagon won’t observe Black History Month, Pride Month or Holocaust Remembrance Civil rights leader Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. delivers a speech to a crowd of approximately 7,000 people on May 17, 1967 at UC Berkeley’s Sproul Plaza in Berkeley, California. MLK Day is a federal… Civil rights leader Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. delivers a speech to a crowd of approximately 7,000 people on May 17, 1967 at UC Berkeley’s Sproul Plaza in Berkeley, California. MLK Day is a federal holiday that affects the operational hours of many businesses. More Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images The Defense Department’s intelligence agency has paused observances of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Pride Month, Holocaust Days of Remembrance, and other cultural or historical annual events, following President Donald Trump’s ban on diversity, equity and inclusion programs in the federal workplace. This directive was detailed in a memo from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), obtained by the Associated Press. The pause affects 11 annual events, including Black History Month, commencing this Saturday, and National Hispanic Heritage Month. A U.S. official confirmed the memo’s authenticity to the AP, indicating that the DIA initiated the pause, suggesting it is not a uniform policy across the entire Defense Department. The official requested anonymity to discuss sensitive matters.

06:26 PM EST Cuban president slams Trump’s plans to send migrants to Guantanamo The Cuban president has slammed Donald Trump’s plans to send migrants to Guantanamo Bay. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel branded the action “an act of brutality” in a post in Spanish on X. Díaz-Canel described Guantanamo Naval Base as “well-known prisons of torture and illegal detention’ that are “located in illegally occupied territory” in Cuba. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez added that the decision showed the Trump administration’s “contempt for the human condition and international law.” En acto de brutalidad, nuevo gobierno de EEUU anuncia encarcelamiento en Base Naval en Guantánamo, ubicada en territorio de #Cuba ilegalmente ocupado, de miles de migrantes que expulsa forzosamente, a los que ubicará junto a las conocidas cárceles de tortura y detención ilegal. — Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez (@DiazCanelB) January 29, 2025

06:08 PM EST OPINION: The executive order making America and the world less safe, weaker, and poorer President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C. on January 21, 2025. President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C. on January 21, 2025. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images When President Donald Trump issued his executive order, Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid, on January 20, 2025, it took all of us employed in the international development and humanitarian relief sector several days to truly understand its gravity. The order stated, “The United States foreign aid industry and bureaucracy are not aligned with American interests and in many cases antithetical to American values.” It also said that all foreign assistance would be paused for 90 days while reviewed for alignment with these values. After the order went out, rumors started circulating, but the mood was that of cautious disbelief. They couldn’t really pause all foreign assistance, could they? Didn’t they understand what that would do—how that would affect us and the people we are trying to serve? Following Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s leaked memo, the clarification that food aid and aid to Israel and Egypt could continue, and the start of an onslaught of Stop Work Orders on projects funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and State Department, we quickly realized that they simply had no idea of the wide-reaching ramifications of this decision. These ramifications cover multiple levels, beginning with Americans and ending with the poorest and most vulnerable, costing jobs, lives, and likely global stability. Read in full from Emilie J. Greenhalgh, Senior International Development Consultant, on Newsweek.

05:55 PM EST Judge cites Trump’s press secretary in looming restraining order decision White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is pictured during a press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C. on January 28, 2025. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is pictured during a press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C. on January 28, 2025. Chip Somodevilla U.S. District Judge John McConnell says he may grant a restraining order against President Donald Trump’s federal funding freeze due in part to a social media post by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Newsweek reached out to the White House via email for comment on Wednesday. A Trump administration memo that on Monday ordered a pause on federal grants and loans was rescinded by the administration on Wednesday. The order had already been partially blocked by a different federal judge on Tuesday. Leavitt indicated a short time after the memo reversal that the move was made “to end any confusion created by the court’s injunction” and insisted that Trump’s funding freeze would “remain in full force and effect, and will be rigorously implemented.” “This is NOT a rescission of the federal funding freeze,” Leavitt wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter. “It is simply a rescission of the OMB memo.” Read in full from Aila Slisco on Newsweek.

05:44 PM EST Trump signs order to defund schools teaching critical race theory President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to stop federal funds going to K-12 public schools that teach critical race theory (CRT). The order states it “prohibits federal funding of the indoctrination of children which includes radical gender ideology and critical race theory in the classroom.” The education secretary, as well as the defense secretary for military schools, are ordered to create a strategy for ending “indoctrination in K-12 education” in the next three months. Many red states have already banned CRT.

05:41 PM EST Kelly Loeffler defends federal aid freeze Kelly Loeffler defended the Trump administration’s federal aid freeze, which was rescinded this afternoon after bipartisan backlash, during her confirmation hearing to head the Small Business Administration. Loeffler said she “fully agree[s]” with Trump’s order, which sparked panic among constituents, nonprofits and agencies when it was announced in a memo on Monday, “I fully agree with President Trump’s decision to stop wasteful spending,” Loeffler said. “He specifically, and the OMB, called out programs related to illegal DEI programs and programs that effectively linked to the Green New Deal that picks winners and losers, so I think Americans breathed a sigh of relief when they saw the waste, fraud and abuse is going to get out of this government.” She was then asked if she would do anything “illegal or unconstitutional” in her role as SBA administrator, at Trump’s behest. Loeffler declined to answer the question, instead saying, “The president is not going to ask me to do that. “I’m not going to create a hypothetical situation here. I will faithfully uphold the law and President Trump is fighting for Americans.”

05:33 PM EST House GOP leaving Miami retreat without budget agreement House Republicans are leaving their annual Miami retreat without a full budget agreement. Utah Rep. Blake Moore told reporters at a press conference today that the budget had been “tough” and so the GOP House will continue to work on the framework after they leave the Doral, Florida, retreat. “What we’re doing here at this conference is trying to replicate the positive work that was done in 2017 and do it in the most fiscally responsible way possible. That’s why it’s tough,” Moore said. “That’s why we don’t just have a top line number at every second – we may try to get to and that’s why we, we all come together and we hash this out, and everybody is sharing their perspective.” House Speaker Mike Johnson had told reporters previously that he hoped to have a budget agreement by the end of the retreat, allowing it to reach the House Budget Committee by next week.

05:26 PM EST Trump gets $25 million from Meta in new settlement President Donald Trump has reportedly signed settlement papers expected to require Meta Platforms to pay approximately $25 million to resolve a 2021 lawsuit he filed after the company suspended his accounts following the attacks on the U.S. Capitol that year. The Wall Street Journal reported that it spoke with sources familiar with the agreement. Of the $25 million, $22 million will go toward a fund for Trump’s presidential library, while the remainder will cover legal fees and compensate other plaintiffs who joined the case, according to the report. Meta will not admit to any wrongdoing, according to the Wall Street Journal’s sources. Trump reportedly signed the settlement agreement on Wednesday in the Oval Office.

05:25 PM EST Donald Trump At Risk for an Unemployment ‘Valentine’s Day Massacre’ President Donald Trump’s recent directive to halt federal grants, loans and financial assistance has sparked widespread concern about its potential impact on the U.S. economy and unemployment rates. While the administration aims to reassess spending priorities, this move could inadvertently exacerbate existing employment challenges. As of December 2024, the U.S. unemployment rate stood at 4.1 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This relatively low rate suggests that the economy is on the path to recovery from previous downturns. Maintaining this momentum is essential to ensure continued job growth and economic stability. Without consistent progress, the risk of backsliding into higher unemployment and economic instability could increase, potentially undoing the gains made in recent years

03:59 PM EST OPINION: It’s time for a Trump Doctrine in foreign policy WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 29: U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks before signing the Laken Riley Act, the first piece of legislation passed during his second term in office, in the East Room of the… WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 29: U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks before signing the Laken Riley Act, the first piece of legislation passed during his second term in office, in the East Room of the White House on January 29, 2025 in Washington, DC. More Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images President Donald Trump returned to the White House on a promise to reform America’s foreign policy, transitioning away from the idea of “spreading democracy” and refocusing on the country’s national interest. A major impediment to fulfilling this promise, however, is the collection of treaties, international agreements, and institutions that comprise the “international world order.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in his confirmation hearing, highlighted this Gordian knot as a major threat, saying America had replaced “a foreign policy that served the national interest” with “one that served the ‘liberal world order.'” But, he added, that “postwar global order is not just obsolete; it is now a weapon being used against us.” America can reorient its foreign policy to prepare for the future by slowly leaving treaties that do not serve its interests, but this process would be cumbersome and somewhat scattershot. Or it could take an alternative path: Instead of untying the Gordian knot, America could slice through it via a new presidential doctrine. Such doctrines—statements indicating a new direction for American foreign policy—have been a staple of American politics since President James Monroe announced the Monroe Doctrine, which declared European powers should stay out of the Americas. Recently, they have become rare. The only president to issue one this century was George W. Bush; the “Bush Doctrine,” as Bush defined it in his memoir Decision Points, espoused preemptive war and democracy promotion. This lack of vision is reflective of the past 30 years of uninventive and disastrous foreign policymaking. President Trump has the chance to reverse this trend with the announcement of a new, unifying presidential doctrine. The doctrine could be something along these lines: “The United States of America will aggressively defend its national interests wherever and whenever it so chooses and will interpret existing agreements in light of said national interests.” Such a doctrine takes inspiration from two previous doctrines, Monroe’s and President Richard Nixon’s, the latter of which pledged to keep “all of [America’s] treaty commitments” and defend nations whose survival America considered vital to its security. There will be complaints from those who wish to continue along America’s present, untenable course. First is the argument that such a doctrine would break the international order. After all, the argument goes, if a country can simply interpret already agreed-upon treaties however they wish, then any cohesion within the liberal international order will be lost—as will the liberal international order itself. Read the full opinion piece by contributing fellow at Defense Priorities Anthony J. Constantini on Newsweek.

03:51 PM EST Trump’s cabinet picks pass Senate confirmation hearings All of Trump’s nominees successfully passed their Senate confirmation hearings so far. This smooth confirmation process has been supported by a narrow but largely unified Republican majority in the Senate, which holds 53 seats compared to the 47 held by Democrats and independents. The confirmed nominees include Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, John Ratcliffe as CIA Director, Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security, Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, Sean Duffy as Secretary of Transportation, and Scott Bessent as Secretary of the Treasury. The administration’s picks have faced little resistance from the GOP-controlled Senate, which has been aligned with the president’s choices.

03:38 PM EST Judge considers legal actions after OMB memo withdrawal A federal judge, Judge McConnell, indicated that he was initially inclined to issue a temporary restraining order against the White House’s spending freeze following the withdrawal of a memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The memo had previously authorized a federal freeze on grants, but with its rescission, McConnell expressed concern about the lack of clarity and potential harm caused by the freeze. States have argued that the White House’s recent statements imply that the freeze may still be in effect, despite the memo being pulled. They contend that the lack of resolution has caused ongoing harm, as funding remains blocked. As a result, the states are seeking a restraining order to prevent further impact, prompting Judge McConnell to consider case-by-case legal actions to address the issue. The states say the WH statements suggest the original, sweeping spending freeze is still in effect, even if the OMB memo describing it has been pulled. The harm continues, they say, so they want a restraining order. — Kyle Cheney (@kyledcheney) January 29, 2025

03:24 PM EST RFK Jr. says he would study abortion pill mifepristone for ‘safety issues’ Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appears before the Senate Finance Committee for his confirmation h earing on January 29, 2025 in Washington, D.C. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appears before the Senate Finance Committee for his confirmation h earing on January 29, 2025 in Washington, D.C. Win McNamee/Getty Images Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Wednesday he would study the abortion pill mifepristone for “safety issues” if confirmed to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Newsweek reached out to the White House for comment via email. Appearing before the Senate Finance Committee for his confirmation hearing, Kennedy faced questions about his stance on a host of issues, from abortion to vaccines. Proponents of abortion rights have expressed concerns about whether the Trump administration will roll back reproductive freedoms now that the president has returned to office, although Trump has said he would not sign a nationwide abortion ban. Kennedy, if confirmed, would be able to craft some of the Trump administration’s abortion policy. He indicated broad support for reproductive rights during his presidential campaign, but Democrats raised concerns about his stance on abortion during the Senate hearing. Read the full story by Andrew Stanton on Newsweek.

03:11 PM EST AOC calls federal grant freeze walk back ‘Trump’s first major loss’ Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has reacted to the White House rescinding the freeze on federal grants and loans, saying that it is “Trump’s first major loss.” This is Trump’s first major loss.

When we fight, we win.

We may not have majorities in the House and the Senate, but we DO have the power to loudly educate and mobilize against the mass looting the Trump admin is attempting against our veterans, healthcare, education, and more. https://t.co/Wkn9vtwCFo — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) January 29, 2025

03:01 PM EST Trump signs executive order to prepare migrant facility at Guantanamo Bay Trump announced that he is signing an executive order instructing the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security to begin preparations for a 30,000-person migrant facility at Guantanamo Bay. Trump: Today I’m also signing an executive order to instruct the departments of defense and homeland security to begin preparing the 30,000 person migrant facility at Guantanamo Bay pic.twitter.com/2gBXWK4hFz — Acyn (@Acyn) January 29, 2025

02:59 PM EST How Robert F. Kennedy wants to change Medicaid A stock image of a “Medicaid Accepted Here” sign in Kokomo, Indiana, Oct. 13, 2019. A stock image of a “Medicaid Accepted Here” sign in Kokomo, Indiana, Oct. 13, 2019. jetcityimage/Getty Images President Donald Trump’s new appointee to head US Human and Health Services, Robert F. Kennedy, is likely to make some changes to Medicaid, his testimony to the Senate Finance Committee revealed Wednesday. More than 79 million Americans rely on Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Both government-run health organizations provide insurance to low-income residents who do not qualify for insurance under a work-based company plan. Trump has made reducing waste and fraud in government agencies a key campaign promise, and Kennedy is likely to implement several changes in office. During Kennedy’s testimony to the Senate Finance Committee, he was pressed on whether he would make reductions to Medicaid as the Secretary of Human and Health Services. Kennedy’s responses were largely unclear, with the former presidential candidate saying that any changes to the Medicaid system would require a vote from Congress. Kennedy also indicated that reductions or modifications would be considered if they enhanced the program. During the questioning, Kennedy said that “more people would rather be on Medicare Advantage because it offers very good services.” Read in full from Suzanne Blake on Newsweek.

02:54 PM EST Trump has signed the Laken Riley Act into law Trump has signed the Laken Riley Act into law. This piece of legislation, named after a Georgia student tragically killed during a run last year, is Trump’s first major legislative win. The law follows the conviction of an undocumented migrant from Venezuela and reignited discussions surrounding immigration and crime.

02:51 PM EST Fed pauses interest rate cuts in first key decision of Trump’s second term On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve opted to keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged after reducing it three times consecutively last year. This decision reflects a more cautious stance as the Fed aims to assess the future direction of inflation and the policies that President Donald Trump may implement. Last year, the Fed lowered its rate from 5.3% to 4.3%, partly due to concerns about a weakening job market. Over the summer, hiring had slowed, and the unemployment rate had increased, prompting Fed officials to approve an unusually large half-point cut in September. However, hiring recovered last month, and the unemployment rate declined slightly to a low of 4.1%. Read the full story by Gabe Whisnant on Newsweek.

02:51 PM EST Trump signs executive order to deport student protesters who are ‘pro-Hamas’ President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at deporting protesters deemed “Hamas sympathizers.” The Trump administration will cancel student visas of “pro-Hamas” demonstrators after the college protests against the war in Gaza. “To all the resident aliens who joined in the pro-jihadist protests, we put you on notice: come 2025, we will find you, and we will deport you,” Trump said. “I will also quickly cancel the student visas of all Hamas sympathizers on college campuses, which have been infested with radicalism like never before.” The order instructs the Justice Department to “aggressively prosecute terroristic threats, arson, vandalism and violence against American Jews.” It also requires the DOJ to investigate pro-Hamas graffiti and deport pro-Palestine protesters who are legally in the U.S. on student visas.

02:42 PM EST Trump administration intensifies immigration crackdown amid Cabinet hearings U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Baltimore Field Officer director Matt Elliston listens during a briefing, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, in Silver Spring, Md. A new law in California could require schools to notify parents and… U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Baltimore Field Officer director Matt Elliston listens during a briefing, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, in Silver Spring, Md. A new law in California could require schools to notify parents and students of ICE raids. More Alex Brandon/AP The Trump administration ramped up its nationwide crackdown on undocumented immigrants. The White House is aiming for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field offices to make at least 75 arrests per day, as reported by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. Trump has also moved to revoke protections for individuals from Venezuela, reversing an extension that had been put in place for certain immigrants.

02:42 PM EST Unions sue Trump over order to strip federal workers of job protections Two unions filed a lawsuit Wednesday over Trump’s executive order to rescind Schedule F which would strip federal workers of their job protections. The American Federation of Government Employees and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees argue the order exceeds Trump’s powers as president, and have filed the suit to try and block it. The suit states: “This scheme seeks to put politics over professionalism, contrary to the laws and values that have defined our career civil service for more than a century.”

02:30 PM EST Republican lawmakers welcome end to freeze ‘confusion’ Republican lawmakers have also welcomed the White House’s decision to rescind the freeze with some calling the original order an “overreach.” “I am pleased that OMB is rescinding the memo imposing sweeping pauses in federal programs,” Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins said in a statement. “While it is not unusual for incoming administrations to review federal programs and policies, this memo was overreaching and created unnecessary confusion and consternation. Sen. Mike Rounds added that the White House had reversed the order after several Republican lawmakers pressed them on how it would affect their constituents. “From our part, we were simply asking questions and a number of members did,” he said. “I think this is probably just a really good example of advise and consent.

02:09 PM EST Sen. Schumer calls for Russell Vought’s nomination to lead OMB to be rescinded Russell Vought pauses as he testifies during a hearing of the House Budget Committee about President Trump’s budget for Fiscal Year 2021, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2020, in Washington. Trump is expected to… Russell Vought pauses as he testifies during a hearing of the House Budget Committee about President Trump’s budget for Fiscal Year 2021, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2020, in Washington. Trump is expected to tap Vought, a key architect of Project 2025, to lead the OMB again. More Alex Brandon/AP Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for Trump to rescind his nomination of Russell Vought to lead the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). OMB is the department that issued Monday’s memo, ordering a freeze on federal grants and loans. “Donald Trump just rescinded his horrible OMB freeze. He should now rescind Russell Vought’s nomination for OMB,” Schumer told reporters at Capitol Hill today. Vought is also one of the key architects of Project 2025. “We believe they’ll come back and try to do this in other ways,” Schumer said. “Russell Vought sat in my office and said he was going to do it.”

01:59 PM EST Sen. Patty on freeze revocation: ‘An important victory for the American people’ A top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee called the Trump administration’s decision to rescind the freeze, amid the backlash, “an important victory for the American people.” Sen. Patty Murray also accused the administration of sparking panic and chaos through “a combination of sheer incompetence, cruel intentions and a willful disregard of the law.”

01:51 PM EST Sen. Chuck Schumer celebrates news, but tells supports, ‘we’re going to keep fighting’ Senator Chuck Schumer, who had referred to the freeze as “lawless, destructive… and illegal,” has celebrated the news that it has been rescinded. He told reporters, on Capitol Hill Wednesday, that the Trump administration would not have made the move, without the vigorous pushback from many Americans. “I don’t think this would have happened, except for the outcry throughout America,” Schumer said. “We don’t believe they’ll stop. We’re going to keep fighting.” The New York Democrat added that Trump should also revoke the nomination of Project 2025 creator Russell Vought to lead the Office of Budget and Management, which issued the original order.

01:47 PM EST White House press secretary says freeze rescinded to end ‘confusion’ White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said today that the freeze had been rescinded to “end any confusion on federal policy created by the court ruling and the dishonest media coverage.” “The executive orders issued by the president on funding reviews remain in full force and effect and will be rigorously implemented by all agencies and departments,” she said. “This action should effectively end the court case and allow the government to focus on enforcing the president’s orders on controlling federal spending. In the coming weeks and months, more executive action will continue to end the egregious waste of federal funding.”

01:11 PM EST White House rescinds federal aid freeze The White House Office of Management and Budget has rescinded the federal aid freeze, CNN reports.

12:41 PM EST The email in full from The Office of Personnel Management The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) memo detailing the buyout policy, titled “A Fork in the Road,” instructs eligible employees on the resignation process and outlines changes in work standards. It reads: “During the first week of his administration, President Trump issued a number of directives concerning the federal workforce. Among those directives, the President required that employees return to in-person work, restored accountability for employees who have policy-making authority, restored accountability for senior career executives, and reformed the federal hiring process to focus on merit. As a result of the above orders, the reform of the federal workforce will be significant. “The reformed federal workforce will be built around four pillars: 1) Return to Office: The substantial majority of federal employees who have been working remotely since COVID will be required to return to their physical offices five days a week. Going forward, we also expect our physical offices to undergo meaningful consolidation and divestitures, potentially resulting in physical office relocations for a number of federal workers. 2) Performance culture: The federal workforce should be comprised of the best America has to offer. We will insist on excellence at every level — our performance standards will be updated to reward and promote those that exceed expectations and address in a fair and open way those who do not meet the high standards which the taxpayers of this country have a right to demand. 3) More streamlined and flexible workforce: While a few agencies and even branches of the military are likely to see increases in the size of their workforce, the majority of federal agencies are likely to be downsized through restructurings, realignments, and reductions in force. These actions are likely to include the use of furloughs and the reclassification to at-will status for a substantial number of federal employees. 4) Enhanced standards of conduct: The federal workforce should be comprised of employees who are reliable, loyal, trustworthy, and who strive for excellence in their daily work. Employees will be subject to enhanced standards of suitability and conduct as we move forward. Employees who engage in unlawful behavior or other misconduct will be prioritized for appropriate investigation and discipline, including termination. “Each of the pillars outlined above will be pursued in accordance with applicable law, consistent with your agency’s policies, and to the extent permitted under relevant collective-bargaining agreements. “If you choose to remain in your current position, we thank you for your renewed focus on serving the American people to the best of your abilities and look forward to working together as part of an improved federal workforce. At this time, we cannot give you full assurance regarding the certainty of your position or agency but should your position be eliminated you will be treated with dignity and will be afforded the protections in place for such positions. “If you choose not to continue in your current role in the federal workforce, we thank you for your service to your country and you will be provided with a dignified, fair departure from the federal government utilizing a deferred resignation program. This program begins effective January 28 and is available to all federal employees until February 6. If you resign under this program, you will retain all pay and benefits regardless of your daily workload and will be exempted from all applicable in-person work requirements until September 30, 2025 (or earlier if you choose to accelerate your resignation for any reason). The details of this separation plan can be found below. “Whichever path you choose, we thank you for your service to The United States of America.”

12:33 PM EST Fork in the Road? Federal employees react to Donald Trump’s worker buyout Some federal employees were surprised to see a message in their email inbox on Wednesday presenting them with an offer to resign from their positions in exchange for about eight months of pay. The email, received by over 2 million federal workers, was sent after the Trump administration offered to buy out all federal employees who opted to leave their positions by February 6. The sweeping offer that could significantly reshape the United States government workforce has sparked concern and uncertainty among employees, particularly as the deadline to resign looms. Donald Trump’s buyout initiative provides about eight months of severance pay to federal workers who voluntarily resign. The administration expects 5 to 10 percent of employees to accept the offer, per Axios, potentially leading to the departure of hundreds of workers. The federal government employs over 3 million workers, making it the nation’s 15th largest workforce. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) framed the offer as “administrative leave with pay and benefits” and distributed instructions via government email accounts.

12:19 PM EST Trump appeals hush money conviction, seeking to overturn verdict U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 09, 2025, in Palm Beach, Florida. Stormy Daniels departs ‘The View’ studios on March 21, 2024, in New York City. The Supreme Court denied Trump’s request to stay sentencing… U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 09, 2025, in Palm Beach, Florida. Stormy Daniels departs ‘The View’ studios on March 21, 2024, in New York City. The Supreme Court denied Trump’s request to stay sentencing for his hush-money conviction. More Scott Olson/Gotham/GC Images/Getty Images Trump has formally appealed his hush money conviction, aiming to erase the verdict that made him the first person with a criminal record to win the presidency. Trump’s legal team filed a notice of appeal Wednesday, asking New York’s mid-level appeals court to overturn his May conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records. The case centered on an alleged effort to conceal a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels during his 2016 campaign. The appeal process allows Trump’s lawyers to expand on their arguments in future filings, while the Manhattan district attorney’s office will have the chance to respond. Trump has hired a new legal team led by Robert J. Giuffra Jr. of Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, following the appointment of his previous defense attorneys to roles in his administration’s Justice Department. Giuffra called the appeal crucial for the rule of law, arguing that the Manhattan DA’s prosecution set a “dangerous precedent.” Trump was sentenced to an unconditional discharge, meaning he avoided jail time or fines but retained the conviction. He has repeatedly denied wrongdoing, calling the case a “political witch hunt.” Since his conviction was in state court, he cannot pardon himself.

12:09 PM EST Ivanka Trump joins CityServe to aid California wildfire victims Ivanka Trump joined CityServe International on Tuesday to provide meals, essential supplies, and encouragement to families affected by the California wildfires. Her visit focused on Altadena and surrounding areas, where fires have caused over $250 billion in damages, making it one of the costliest natural disasters in U.S. history, the organization shared with Newsweek in a statement via email. CityServe has provided over $1 million in aid to wildfire-affected communities and secured more than $3 million in donations from brands like Nike and EveryLife. Trump’s involvement continues her history of partnering with CityServe to support disaster relief efforts across the U.S. and abroad.

11:47 AM EST Trump set to sign executive orders on school choice, CRT funding, and antisemitism President Donald Trump signs executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump takes office for his second term as the 47th president of the United… President Donald Trump signs executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump takes office for his second term as the 47th president of the United States. More Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images Trump is expected to sign multiple executive orders today, including measures on school choice, cutting federal funding for schools that support critical race theory (CRT), and combating antisemitism, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. One of the executive orders will direct federal agencies to support school choice initiatives, allowing taxpayer funds to be used for private or faith-based education. The Department of Education will issue guidance on using federal funding for scholarship programs, while the Departments of Defense, Interior, and Health and Human Services will develop plans to expand school choice options for military families, Indigenous students, and other groups.

11:29 AM EST Trump to sign order aimed at deporting pro-Palestinian protesters President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order today aimed at deporting pro-Palestinian protesters. The Trump administration will cancel student visas of all “Hamas sympathizers” after the college protests against the war in Gaza, according to a White House fact sheet. “To all the resident aliens who joined in the pro-jihadist protests, we put you on notice: come 2025, we will find you, and we will deport you,” Trump said, in the fact sheet. “I will also quickly cancel the student visas of all Hamas sympathizers on college campuses, which have been infested with radicalism like never before.” The White House says Trump will order the Justice Department to “aggressively prosecute terroristic threats, arson, vandalism and violence against American Jews.” The order requires the DOJ to investigate pro-Hamas graffiti and deport pro-Palestine protesters who are legally in the U.S. on student visas.

11:28 AM EST Elon Musk accused of ‘pulling Trump down’ with negative poll rating Elon Musk could be “pulling Trump down,” as polls show his popularity among the American population is plummeting, according to CNN analyst Harry Enten. Newsweek reached out to the White House and Musk’s companies, Tesla, SpaceX and X, for comment via email on Wednesday. Musk has emerged as a prominent player in President Donald Trump’s second administration, being a visible presence at his rallies and inauguration. He has also been given a key role in spearheading the proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). His sinking popularity could negatively affect Trump, who has already entered office with a weak approval rating. Enten said Tuesday on Erin Burnett OutFront that Musk’s net favorability rating in January had dropped to -13 points. This was down from -3 points before the election and a sharp fall from his +29 rating in 2016. An Associated Press-NORC poll published last week found that 52 percent of respondents had an unfavorable opinion of him, compared with 36 percent with a favorable opinion. This marks a decline from a 10-point negative rating the previous month. Other polls show similar trends, with a Wall Street Journal poll last week finding that Trump was more unpopular than any of his Cabinet nominees listed. Forty percent of respondents said they viewed Trump favorably compared with 51 percent who viewed the president unfavorably. Read the full story by Alia Shoaib on Newsweek.

11:10 AM EST DOJ drops attempt to criminally prosecute two men in Trump document case The Department of Justice (DOJ) moved on Wednesday to end its pursuit of criminal charges against two men accused of helping Trump conceal classified government documents, CNBC reported. In a court filing, the DOJ sought to voluntarily dismiss an appeal that aimed to revive the prosecution of Walt Nauta, Trump’s valet, and Carlos De Oliveira, a Mar-a-Lago worker in Palm Beach, Florida. This decision follows the DOJ’s earlier withdrawal of an appeal to revive criminal charges against Trump himself, citing a department policy that prevents the prosecution of sitting presidents.

10:36 AM EST Rep. Velázquez says constituents are “terrified” about sending children to school amid deportation efforts Rep. Nydia Velázquez shared that her constituents are “terrified” to send their children to school due to ongoing mass deportation efforts under the Trump administration. In an interview with CNN, Velázquez discussed the concerns of her Queens constituents, saying, “Well, they are terrified. I had a meeting in my office in — in Queens, and people are asking me, you know what assurances we — we have about sending the kids to the schools. They are really terrified.” She criticized the framing of deportation efforts, stating that while they are often justified with claims about crime, drugs, and cartels, the reality is that many immigrants without criminal records will be targeted. “It is clear that their mass deportation agenda will target millions of people who have no criminal records,” Velázquez added, calling it harmful to immigrant communities.

10:23 AM EST Senate Judiciary Committee advances Pam Bondi’s nomination Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee during her confirmation hearing to be the next U.S. attorney general in the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on Jan. 15,… Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee during her confirmation hearing to be the next U.S. attorney general in the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on Jan. 15, 2025 in Washington, DC. Bondi, who was nominated by President-elect Donald Trump, defended him during his first impeachment trial in 2020 and publicly supported false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him. More Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images The Senate Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to advance Pam Bondi’s nomination as attorney general, despite opposition from all 10 Democratic members. Democrats raised concerns about Bondi’s ability to resist potential White House interference in the Department of Justice’s work, following her confirmation hearing earlier this month. Bondi, however, secured support from all 12 Republican members of the committee and is widely expected to be confirmed by the full Senate. The vote comes amid significant upheaval at the Justice Department, with interim leadership working to reassign or fire several veteran prosecutors. Democratic senators, like Dick Durbin (D-IL), expressed concerns that these moves, which they say are aimed at installing Trump loyalists, could jeopardize national security and public interest. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) defended the president’s right to choose an attorney general aligned with his vision for America.

10:08 AM EST White House border czar calls for more Defense Department involvement in immigration enforcement White House border czar Tom Homan expressed a desire for the Department of Defense (DOD) to play a larger role in immigration enforcement. Speaking to CNN on Wednesday, Homan described the past four years as a “biggest national security vulnerability” and emphasized that the DOD needs to be more involved in securing the border. Homan also discussed the financial needs for implementing Trump’s immigration plans, stating that officials are currently determining the necessary funding. “The more money we have, the more successful we’re going to be,” he noted, citing the need for additional resources for beds and operations. When asked if the border should be the DOD’s top priority, Homan confirmed that it remains a priority for the department.

10:00 AM EST White House press secretary rejects claims of ‘purge’ in buyout offer for federal workers White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Wednesday dismissed claims that the Trump administration’s buyout offer to federal employees amounted to a “purge.” The American Federation of Government Employees had previously warned that such a move could disrupt the functioning of the federal government, leading to chaos. Leavitt strongly refuted the union’s concerns, calling the accusations “absolutely false.” She clarified that the buyout was a suggestion for federal workers to return to their jobs, with the option to resign and receive eight months of compensation. Leavitt also pointed out that only 6% of the federal workforce in Washington, D.C. actually shows up to work, calling it “unacceptable” and noting that essential workers across the country, like law enforcement officers, teachers, and nurses, continue to serve. “This is an overwhelmingly popular policy with people outside of Washington DC,” she added.

09:48 AM EST Trump Media and Technology Group expands into financial services Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th president of the United States in Washington, DC, on January 20, 2025. A person holds a smartphone displaying the Truth Social app page on the Apple App… Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th president of the United States in Washington, DC, on January 20, 2025. A person holds a smartphone displaying the Truth Social app page on the Apple App Store. Photo by Julia Demaree Nikhinson / AFP) (Photo by JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON/AFP via Getty Images) More Julia Demaree Nikhinson/Cheng Xin/AFP via Getty Images/Getty Images Trump Media and Technology Group (TMTG) is venturing into financial services with the launch of Truth.Fi, a division focused on investment vehicles, including exchange-traded funds and cryptocurrencies, the company announced Wednesday. Shares of TMTG, which operates Truth Social, surged over 10% in premarket trading following the news. The new division will begin with up to $250 million in funds, which will be housed with Charles Schwab. TMTG CEO Devin Nunes, a former congressman, highlighted that Truth.Fi is a natural extension of the Truth Social platform, with the goal of creating investment products that align with “American First” values. The firm aims to develop a robust ecosystem for American patriots, offering protection from what they view as threats like cancellation, censorship, and privacy violations from big tech and corporations. While specific investment vehicles have not yet been disclosed, TMTG stated that Schwab will broadly advise on investments, with a focus on sectors such as American growth, manufacturing, and energy. This move comes amid ongoing Republican complaints about conservative treatment by financial institutions, which Trump has personally criticized. The announcement positions Truth.Fi as a potential competitor to other major players in the sector, including Elon Musk’s X platform, which is also expanding into financial services.

09:34 AM EST Entire Jan 6 Capitol riot database disappears from Trump DOJ website Trump supporters stand in support of people convicted for their part in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. Trump supporters stand in support of people convicted for their part in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025. Jose Luis Magana/AP A section of the Department of Justice’s website that featured a database of those convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol has been taken offline since President Donald Trump returned to office. Newsweek has contacted the White House and the DOJ for comment via email. One of Trump’s first actions in his second term was to pardon around 1,500 people convicted over the January 2021 riot, whom the president referred to as “hostages.” The Trump administration now appears to be seeking to limit public access to information about the attack by removing the database. During the Biden administration, the DOJ maintained a searchable database of all individuals prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia in relation to the January 6 riot. The database featured the names of more than 1,500 individuals who had been charged and sentenced in connection with the breach of the U.S. Capitol in January 2021. The section of the website where the database was hosted has now been removed and replaced with a “page not found” message. According to the Internet Archive’s Wayback Machine, the database was still available online as January 24. An FBI page that listed individuals still wanted in connection with the Capitol riot has also been removed. Read the full story by Ewan Palmer on Newsweek.

09:19 AM EST Rep. Brendan Boyle predicts Congress will halt Trump’s freeze on funding Rep. Brendan Boyle predicts that Congress will “ultimately prevail” in stopping President Trump’s freeze on federal funding, a move he describes as unprecedented and unconstitutional. In an interview with CNN, Boyle criticized the freeze, asserting that it contradicts the Constitution and federal law. He added, “It is pretty clear in Article One of the Constitution that Congress has the power of the purse. So, I think we will ultimately prevail.” Boyle further discussed the origins of the freeze, pointing to Russ Vought, the incoming Office of Management and Budget (OMB) director, who was one of the primary authors of Trump’s Project 2025. Boyle noted that the freeze aligns with Vought’s plan, adding, “This is not what an incoming administration ever does.” Responding to claims from Stephen Miller, who suggested that 98% of the federal workforce donated to left-wing candidates, Boyle called the statement false, remarking, “Stephen Miller is an individual who just makes things up in order to justify his hateful agenda.” He added, “The reality is, we’re dealing with an extreme ideology that is going to be pushing through many extreme things that the American people didn’t vote for.” Boyle’s concern is that this “nonsense and craziness” will continue under the Trump administration, instead of addressing the economic issues voters were focused on.

09:07 AM EST Trump to sign executive order combating antisemitism Trump is expected to sign an executive order on Wednesday that directs federal agencies to identify civil and criminal actions to address antisemitism, including deporting individuals involved in anti-Israel protests, according to The New York Post. The order calls for the deportation of foreign nationals, including students on visas, who engage in illegal activities during protests linked to anti-Israel sentiment, particularly following the October 2023 Hamas attacks. Additionally, the Justice Department will investigate pro-Hamas graffiti and threats, including those on college campuses. The executive order follows a report from six House Republican-led committees, which criticized universities like Columbia for allowing anti-Jewish rhetoric to flourish while continuing to receive federal funds. The order also aligns with Trump’s previous calls for stricter immigration enforcement in response to growing activism supporting Hamas, which was designated a foreign terrorist organization by the US government.

08:51 AM EST Trump to sign Laken Riley Act; multiple hearings and decisions underway Today marks several significant political events as Trump is expected to sign the Laken Riley Act into law. This piece of legislation, named after a Georgia student tragically killed during a run last year, will be Trump’s first major legislative win and is a top priority for Congressional Republicans. The law follows the conviction of an undocumented migrant from Venezuela and reignited discussions surrounding immigration and crime. In addition, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will face questions during his Senate confirmation hearing to become Trump’s Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Democrats are expected to scrutinize his controversial vaccine stance and other health-related policies. Trump’s Commerce Department nominee, Howard Lutnick, and Small Business Administration pick, Kelly Loeffler, will also testify today. Meanwhile, the Senate Judiciary Committee is set to vote on Pam Bondi’s nomination for the Justice Department, following a delay pushed by Democrats. The Federal Reserve is also expected to hold off on rate cuts today, a decision likely to frustrate Trump, who has previously expressed his belief that the president should have more influence over such matters.

08:38 AM EST Federal Reserve expected to pause rate cuts The Marriner S. Eccles Federal Reserve Board Building in Washington, November 18, 2024. The Marriner S. Eccles Federal Reserve Board Building in Washington, November 18, 2024. Jose Luis Magana/AP, file The Federal Reserve is anticipated to hold off on further rate cuts during Wednesday’s meeting, marking a key decision for Trump’s second term. This move contrasts with Trump’s previous statements suggesting the president should have a say in Fed policy, claiming he understands interest rates better than the Fed’s leadership. After reducing rates three times late last year, the Fed is now in a holding pattern, largely due to the limited progress made in controlling inflation. A robust US economy, characterized by low unemployment and solid growth, gives the Fed more flexibility to pause rate cuts. While officials have hinted that cuts may occur later, traders don’t expect a change in March either. Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to address these issues in his post-meeting press conference.

08:26 AM EST Trump offers buyout packages to federal employees in push to shrink government Trump has offered buyout packages to nearly all federal employees as part of an effort to downsize and reform the U.S. government. The administration sent an email on Tuesday asking employees to decide by February 6 whether they wish to participate in a “deferred resignation” program. Those who choose to quit by September will receive approximately eight months of salary as severance. The Trump administration estimates that up to 10% of federal employees, or about 200,000 workers, may accept the offer. This move is part of broader reforms aimed at reducing government spending, with officials estimating potential savings of up to $100 billion. Additionally, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) outlined plans to require most employees to return to working in offices five days a week, ending COVID-era remote work policies. However, the buyouts have sparked criticism. Union leaders warn of the negative consequences for essential government services, and some Democratic lawmakers have questioned the legality of such offers. Critics argue that the move could cause chaos in the federal workforce, potentially undermining crucial services for Americans. Despite the backlash, the Trump administration remains committed to shrinking the government and reducing federal spending.

07:53 AM EST Caroline Kennedy urges Senate to reject RFK Jr. as health secretary In a video posted Tuesday, Caroline Kennedy, the sole surviving child of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, read her letter to U.S. Senators in which she labeled her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as a… In a video posted Tuesday, Caroline Kennedy, the sole surviving child of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, read her letter to U.S. Senators in which she labeled her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as a “predator.” More @CBKennedy/X Caroline Kennedy has urged senators to reject her cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination for health secretary, calling him a “predator” addicted to attention and unfit for the role. In a letter to key lawmakers ahead of his confirmation hearings, Kennedy criticized RFK Jr.’s opposition to vaccines, his lack of qualifications, and his personal history. She accused him of leading family members into drug addiction and benefiting financially from vaccine-related litigation. Kennedy, the U.S. ambassador to Australia, has been a strong advocate for vaccines, particularly in the fight against cervical cancer. She condemned her cousin’s stance on vaccination as dangerous, citing his role in spreading misinformation. Other Kennedy family members, including Joseph Kennedy II and Kerry Kennedy, have also publicly opposed RFK Jr. His controversial views on vaccines and past struggles with addiction have drawn intense scrutiny as he faces Senate questioning this week.

07:32 AM EST US halts $50 million condom shipment to Gaza The Biden administration has paused a $50 million shipment of condoms to Gaza, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced Tuesday. The decision was based on a review by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the Office for Management and Budget (OMB), which determined that the funding was an unnecessary expense. “That is a preposterous waste of taxpayer money,” Leavitt said, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility. Condoms are a common component of international aid, with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) citing them as essential to global health initiatives. However, Elon Musk, who leads DOGE, called the funding cut the “tip of the iceberg,” suggesting, without evidence, that funds may have been misused. Leavitt also confirmed that the White House blocked a $37 million payment to the World Health Organization as part of President Trump’s executive order cutting ties with the agency. Additionally, the administration announced a shift in media access to White House briefings, granting seats to independent journalists and social media influencers alongside traditional news outlets.