President Donald Trump has designated the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen as a "foreign terrorist organization" following a series of attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea. This decision marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, aiming to curb the influence of the Houthis in the region. Meanwhile, in Europe, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof has called for a united front, urging European nations to "have a backbone" while navigating their relationship with President Trump.
In domestic affairs, President Trump's personnel memorandum requires government employees to return to work in person. The Office of Personnel Management has issued guidance for agencies to revise their telework policies by 5 p.m. on Friday. The memo warns federal workers that "failure to report this information within 10 days will result in adverse consequences." This directive could have significant implications for federal employees accustomed to remote work arrangements.
The Trump administration continues to make bold moves on multiple fronts. It has halted agreements mandating reforms in police departments where misconduct was identified by the Justice Department. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has engaged with his Canadian counterpart to discuss the Trump administration's new global strategies. In addition, President Trump held talks on Wednesday with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, further solidifying international ties.
On Capitol Hill, the Senate is moving forward with key nominations. A procedural vote is scheduled for Thursday afternoon to advance Pete Hegseth's nomination as defense secretary. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has also set the stage for Kristi Noem's nomination for Homeland Security and Scott Bessent for Treasury, following the Hegseth debate.
In legislative developments, the House delivered a significant victory to President Trump by passing the Laken Riley Act on Wednesday. The president also expressed his intent to investigate political rivals, including Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton, highlighting his continued focus on political accountability.
Furthermore, the Justice Department has instructed legal service providers receiving federal funding to cease their involvement in legal orientation and assistance at immigration courts. This move is expected to impact counsel for children and others in immigration detention.
Brett Shumate, who served in the Justice Department during Trump's first term, is set to defend the president's executive action to end birthright citizenship in Seattle court on Thursday. This legal battle underscores ongoing controversies surrounding immigration policies under the Trump administration.
