House Republicans narrowly passed a $6.5 trillion budget resolution late Tuesday, advancing President Trump's agenda of $4.5 trillion in tax cuts and $2 trillion in spending reductions. The controversial plan faces staunch Democratic opposition and internal GOP concerns about its long-term fiscal impacts.
In a 217-215 vote, lawmakers approved measures slashing social programs while boosting defense spending.
This big, beautiful bill puts America first,Trump declared after pressuring reluctant Republicans through personal calls and White House meetings.
The administration simultaneously escalated global tensions through:
- New sanctions targeting Iran's drone program
- Direct Ukraine peace talks with Moscow
- Proposed copper tariffs affecting global markets
Domestically, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins unveiled a $1 billion poultry crisis plan as egg prices threaten to surge before Easter. The proposal includes controversial measures to relax animal welfare rules and import foreign eggs.
Three Trump judicial nominees with extensive anti-abortion records faced Senate confirmation hearings Wednesday. Dean John Sauer, Harmeet Dhillon, and Aaron Reitz could reshape reproductive rights policies through their potential oversight of medication abortion access and state laws.
Elon Musk continues expanding influence through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), demanding weekly productivity reports from federal workers. Noncompliance could result in termination, warned White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, though OPM guidelines remain contradictory.
International leaders scramble to adapt to Trump's foreign policy shifts. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrives Thursday seeking assurances on continued Ukraine support after announcing increased British defense spending. This follows French President Macron's unsuccessful bid to preserve NATO unity earlier this week.
Cultural institutions face unprecedented political pressure, with Trump assuming leadership of the Kennedy Center board. Over 70 artists have canceled performances since the administration replaced trustees and pledged to eliminate wokeprogramming.
Controversy erupted over an iPhone dictation glitch briefly suggesting Trumpwhen users said racist.Apple confirmed a fix underway Wednesday after social media backlash.
As budget implementation begins, analysts warn of:
- Potential government shutdowns over spending cuts
- Legal challenges to Medicaid reductions
- Global market disruptions from proposed tariffs
The administration plans further structural changes, including a $5 million Gold Cardvisa program replacing EB-5 investor visas. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick claims this will reduce fraud, though critics argue it prioritizes wealth over merit.