The Interior Department is planning RIFs impacting NPS, USGS, and BLM, with up to 1,500 positions cut at NPS. Staff morale is low amid restructuring and hiring freezes. Key divisions face significant losses.
Germany's Merz seeks to revitalize the Weimar Triangle with Poland and France, aiming for a stronger European defense approach and a unified NATO position ahead of a crucial summit. Uncertainties remain.
Congress used CRA resolutions to repeal policies, from energy preservation to vehicle emissions. Trump approved 3 resolutions, signaling a deregulatory agenda. Concerns raised about abusing the CRA for broader policy changes.
The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) retracted a May 2024 opinion on the Hatch Act, reverting to referring violations by White House appointees to the President. This change impacts disciplinary actions and First Amendment concerns.
Trump's budget proposes deep cuts to most federal agencies (15-35%) except Defense (+13%), Homeland Security, Transport, and Veterans Affairs. Climate, education, and science programs face significant reductions.
Rep. Himes warns of workforce cuts impacting national security, potentially exploited by Chinese espionage like 'Volt Typhoon'. He urges Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act reauthorization.
IRS faces cuts impacting customer service, DEI, and taxpayer experience. Changes under the Trump administration raise concerns about taxpayer support and data handling. The Taxpayer Experience Office, established in 2022, is also affected.
UK and India are in trade talks, focusing on visa concessions and carbon tax concerns amid Trump's trade war. Both sides aim for a mutually beneficial deal despite political sensitivities.
A judge blocked Trump's order limiting collective bargaining rights for federal employees, siding with unions. The order, citing national security, faced legal challenges over its scope and impact on labor rights.
The State Department is undergoing restructuring, including office eliminations and staff reductions (RIF). Focus shifts to foreign policy priorities, impacting global affairs and civil rights divisions. Voluntary retirement incentives are being explored.
SSA introduces AI chatbot using OpenAI to aid content, research & coding, while facing workforce cuts. Aims to improve efficiency in benefit eligibility, but internal testing is lacking.
UK Chancellor aims for US trade deal, focusing on automotives, drugs, and easing trade for US businesses in the UK. Discussions include tax policies and leveraging the strong UK-US investment and innovation partnership.
