Our weekly recap series continues, providing a comprehensive look at the Trump administration’s initial 100 days in office. For more detailed updates and expert analysis, subscribe to the NPR Politics newsletter.
This week, the stock market saw a positive shift amidst weeks of uncertainty caused by Trump’s trade war. This change was largely attributed to Trump’s softened rhetoric towards China and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Meanwhile, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth faces mounting scrutiny, and Trump continues to pursue ambitious international deals with Iran and Ukraine, despite growing tensions. As the administration navigates these challenges, the intersection of politics and commerce remains a notable theme.
1. Adjusting Stances Toward China and Powell
Despite declining approval ratings, Trump has shown a sensitivity to investor reactions. Initially, the stock market was on track for a historically poor start under his presidency. However, after Trump toned down his aggressive rhetoric towards China and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, a market rebound occurred. Trump confirmed that 145% tariffs on Chinese goods remain but stated that negotiations are underway for a more reasonable figure. His comments about Powell on social media were less favorable, calling him a “major loser,” though he later assured there were no plans to dismiss him. The market’s response has been positive, notwithstanding ongoing uncertainty for both Wall Street and small businesses.
2. Hegseth Under Fire
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has been embroiled in controversy with multiple reports detailing alleged misconduct within the Defense Department. The New York Times highlighted Hegseth’s sharing of sensitive military information via a private chat group, while Politico published an op-ed foreseeing his potential dismissal. Hegseth has publicly criticized media reports, attributing them to disgruntled former employees. Despite limited Republican criticism, notable figures like Sen. Lisa Murkowski and Rep. Don Bacon have voiced concerns. The White House, however, remains supportive of Hegseth, although potential replacements are reportedly under consideration.
3. Challenges in International Deal-making
Trump, who prides himself on his deal-making prowess, is actively working towards resolutions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and securing a nuclear agreement with Iran. Despite promises of swift action, progress has been elusive. Trump has criticized Ukraine’s President for stalling negotiations, and the U.S. demands Ukraine cede Crimea and forgo NATO aspirations. The administration’s Iran negotiations are reportedly progressing, but details remain scarce. While Trump’s efforts continue, achieving these international deals remains a complex endeavor.
4. Politics and Profit
President Trump’s approach to blending business with politics is unprecedented. From campaign merchandise to hosting billionaire CEOs at his inauguration, Trump’s presidency continues to intertwine commercial interests with governance. Recent events include corporate sponsorship of the White House Easter Egg Roll and promotion of a crypto meme coin contest. These activities raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest and ethical implications.
Weekly Highlights
Friday, April 18
- The State Department’s human rights criteria have been revised, omitting previous critiques of certain abuses, according to NPR.
- Secretary Rubio suggests a pause in Russia-Ukraine peace efforts if progress isn’t imminent.
- The U.S. conducted a significant airstrike on a Houthi oil port in Yemen, resulting in over 70 fatalities.
- Sen. Murkowski expressed fears of reprisal from the Trump administration for her outspoken stance.
Saturday
- The White House sought corporate sponsorship for its Easter Egg Roll, a first in event history.
- Nationwide protests against Trump continued.
- Budget cuts at Health and Human Services impact maternal health programs, The Washington Post reports.
- NPR’s Nina Totenberg explores potential constitutional tensions between the Supreme Court and the president.
Sunday
- The U.S. awaits Ukraine’s response to a peace proposal involving Crimea and NATO, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.
- Russia’s ceasefire saw nearly 3,000 violations, according to Ukraine.
- El Salvador’s president proposed a prisoner swap involving U.S.-deported Venezuelans.
- Reports of Hegseth’s sharing of confidential information with a private chat group emerged from The New York Times.
- John Ullyot’s Politico op-ed forecasts Hegseth’s potential firing amid departmental chaos.
Monday
- Pope Francis passed away.
- Vice President Vance and India’s PM Modi announce “significant” trade progress.
- Thousands attended the White House Easter Egg Roll.
- Harvard initiated a lawsuit against the Trump administration.
- Trump reaffirmed his stance against comprehensive due process for immigrants.
- Potential replacements for Hegseth are reportedly being considered by the White House.
Tuesday
- AP highlights emerging infighting within Trump’s second-term administration.
- Hegseth allegedly shared secure information in private chat groups, NPR reports.
- Trump attended a dinner honoring the Amir of Qatar.
- Rep. Don Bacon criticized Hegseth’s actions as lawless and amateurish.
Wednesday
- Politico reports on Pentagon rivalries surrounding Hegseth.
- Trump announces plans for two new flag poles at the White House.
- Democrats call for an investigation into Musk’s agency restructuring.
- A Harvard Youth Poll indicates low confidence in the country’s direction among young voters.
Thursday
- Trump’s declining approval ratings were noted in several polls, including Fox News.
- The Wall Street Journal editorial board criticized Trump’s Ukraine peace proposal as an ultimatum.
- Trump claimed potential resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict within two weeks.
NPR disclosure: Katherine Maher, the CEO of NPR, chairs the board of the Signal Foundation.
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