Trump Administration Plans More Executive Actions on Day 2: Live Updates
President Donald Trump has launched his second term with a series of executive actions covering immigration, health policy, and more. The White House is gearing up for another wave of orders on Tuesday to address the aftermath of the initial moves, including issuing pardons for over a thousand rioters linked to the violent Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol and efforts to terminate birthright citizenship. Lawmakers will continue the scrutiny and approval process for the president’s Cabinet selections, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio officially taking office alongside other nominees such as Elise Stefanik for ambassador to the United Nations.
Confirmation Hearing for Trump’s VA Pick Begins
Doug Collins, Trump’s pick to head the Veterans Affairs Department, is set to undergo questioning from lawmakers as his confirmation hearing commences. Collins, a Navy veteran and former congressman who currently serves as a chaplain in the U.S. Air Force Reserve Command, played a pivotal role during Trump’s first impeachment as the lead Republican on the House Judiciary Committee. Rubio was sworn in as Secretary of State by Vice President JD Vance after unanimous Senate confirmation, focusing on diplomatic relations amid discussions on Trump’s recent pardons and international agenda.
Secretary Rubio Addresses Key Issues
Secretary of State Marco Rubio shared insights on his role as the first Latino to hold the position, plans regarding the TikTok ban, and Trump’s controversial pardons for Jan. 6 defendants. In response to inquiries about Trump’s vow to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict on his inauguration day, Rubio emphasized the complexity of the situation and the need for diplomatic solutions away from public scrutiny. Stressing the importance of pragmatic and serious negotiations, Rubio highlighted the U.S.’s supportive stance towards Ukraine while calling for an end to the ongoing conflict initiated by Vladimir Putin.
White House Teases Major Infrastructure Announcement
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt teased a significant infrastructure announcement by President Trump scheduled for 4 p.m. ET. Leavitt hinted at Trump addressing the media later in the day, emphasizing the importance of the impending announcement while refraining from holding a press briefing herself. The administration’s focus on infrastructure underscores its commitment to addressing key national issues and driving economic growth under Trump’s leadership. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the White House prepares for the unveiling of its latest policy initiative.