JQJO — Politics news · Page 877

Recent polls reveal declining public approval of President Trump's second term. Multiple surveys show low approval ratings across key areas, including the economy, immigration, and foreign policy. Even among Republicans, support is wavering. A majority of Americans find his presidency "scary", and concerns about economic recession are high. Trump's trade policies and use of tariffs are widely criticized, with disapproval extending to his handling of immigration.

The Justice Department reversed a Biden-era policy restricting the use of subpoenas for journalists' records in leak investigations. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that this reversal is necessary to protect sensitive information and counter leaks undermining President Trump's agenda. While emphasizing support for a free press, Bondi clarified that subpoenas will be used as a last resort, with safeguards like advance notice and narrow scope. This move reverses a 2022 policy by Attorney General Merrick Garland that significantly limited such actions.

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) drastically reshaped the US federal government in its first 100 days under President Trump. Led by Musk and a team of tech experts, DOGE aggressively slashed spending, canceled contracts, and fired over 100,000 employees, sparking a political backlash. While Musk claims significant savings, critics dispute the figures and highlight the chaotic impact. Despite Musk's announced departure, his influence remains through his embedded personnel, leaving a lasting impact on the federal government and fueling political debate.

This year's White House Correspondents' Dinner will be a subdued affair, lacking both a comedian and Donald Trump's presence. Critics see this as a sign of legacy media's struggle to counter Trump's influence and the rise of pro-Trump media. The comedian Amber Ruffin's invitation was rescinded after her critical remarks about Trump. The event will focus on awarding journalists and providing scholarships, but many see it as a reflection of the media's weakened state and its challenges in covering Trump's administration.

A new AP-NORC poll reveals mixed reactions to President Trump's second term. Nearly twice as many Americans believe Trump is prioritizing the wrong issues than those who think he's focusing on the right ones. Around 40% deem his presidency "terrible," while roughly 30% consider it "good" or "great." While 70% found his first 100 days largely as expected, dissatisfaction is prevalent, particularly among Democrats. Republicans largely support Trump, though even within this group, opinions on his priorities are divided. His approval rating stands at around 40%, higher on immigration issues but lower on foreign policy, trade, and the economy.

In a TIME interview marking his second term's first 100 days, President Trump claimed to have brokered 200 trade deals, despite none being publicly announced. He refused to identify the parties involved, stating the deals were confidential. Trump also repeated false claims about inflation and grocery prices, and offered a contradictory explanation regarding the Supreme Court's order to return a wrongfully deported man, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, to the US. The interview showcased his continued attacks on his predecessor and assertions about illegal immigration.

Attorney General Pam Bondi rescinded a Biden-era policy that restricted seizing reporters' records in leak investigations. The move, prompted by alleged leaks of classified information to the New York Times, allows for more aggressive pursuit of leaks and could target journalists. While Bondi assures procedural protections remain, critics worry about press freedom. This reversal follows previous instances of the Trump administration targeting journalists and recent leaks concerning military operations and election interference allegations.

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) is touring Republican districts, holding town halls in GOP lawmakers' home turf to counter their avoidance of public engagement. He's utilizing a multi-pronged approach including TV appearances, fundraising, and social media engagement, directly addressing voter anxieties about Trump and Democratic inaction. While not drawing stadium-sized crowds like Sanders or Ocasio-Cortez, his efforts are resonating, raising $8 million in Q1 and gaining recognition as a potential future leader. Murphy emphasizes the urgency of combating threats to democracy over personal political ambitions.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's office is embroiled in a leak investigation that led to the firing of three senior aides: Dan Caldwell, Darin Selnick, and Colin Carroll. The investigation, centered on a leaked document outlining military options for the Panama Canal, allegedly implicated Caldwell, who denies the accusations. The firings stemmed from internal conflicts and accusations of ineffectiveness against Chief of Staff Joe Kasper, who also departed. The situation has raised concerns about Hegseth's management capabilities, particularly given his own past indiscretion involving a Signal group chat. The White House and Pentagon are reportedly struggling to assess the situation amidst conflicting accounts and accusations.

A New York school district is defying a state ban on Native American mascots, clinging to its 'Chiefs' logo despite a judge dismissing its lawsuit. The district, supported by President Trump, argues the logo honors a historical figure. Opponents, including some residents of Native American descent, contend the image perpetuates harmful stereotypes. The state maintains its ban protects Indigenous peoples and accuses the district of failing to engage with tribal leaders. The legal battle continues, with the school district seeking an extension to amend its claim.