Kennedy Confirmed as HHS Secretary
Senate confirms RFK Jr. in a 52-48 vote on February 13, 2025. Every Republican voted in favor of RFK Jr. with the exception of Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY).
Trump 2.0 Trade Policies: Deep Dive
Trade actions have been essential instruments in President Trump’s policy approach. A key aspect of his strategy has been leveraging tariffs as a negotiating tool. This analysis examines the anticipated trade statutes and policies that could shape a second Trump administration.
Brooke Rollins Inches Closer to Confirmation as Agriculture Secretary
Lawmakers on the Senate Agriculture Committee have voted unanimously to advance Brooke Rollins, nominee for Secretary of Agriculture, to the full Senate for final confirmation. In her confirmation hearing, Rollins underscored her commitment to America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. Rollins, who hails from a small agricultural town in Texas, spoke passionately about her deep-rooted connection to farming and ranching.
Additional Details on Major Trade Actions
On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump issued executive orders imposing tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico in response to alleged illicit drug flows, organized crime, and illegal immigration. These tariffs take effect on February 4, 2025. The measures apply broadly across multiple industries, with potential further escalation if retaliatory actions occur.
Trump Imposes Sweeping Tariffs: 25% on Canada and Mexico, 10% on Canadian Energy
February 1st, 2025, President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, with an additional 10% tariff on imports from China. He specified that shipments of Canadian oil to the United States would be 10%
Budget Reconciliation 101
A comprehensive overview of the budget reconciliation process as Republicans aim to use this legislative tool to advance their policy objectives.
Day One Decisions: Trump’s Executive Orders Set Administrations Tone
On his first day back in the Oval Office, the president signed 42 executive orders, memoranda, and proclamations; enacted 115 personnel actions; and took over 200 executive actions. He also issued 1,600 pardons as part of his rapid efforts to reshape the federal government and test the boundaries of his authority.
Trump Cabinet Confirmation Hearings: How it is Going So Far
The confirmation hearings for President Trump’s cabinet nominees have been a mix of political maneuvering, intense scrutiny, and strategic positioning. Read about the hearings from this week below.
Thanksgiving Worries Amid Trump's New Proposed Trade Policies
As Americans sat down for Thanksgiving this year, many enjoyed a financial reprieve with holiday meal costs at their lowest in years. Yet, the looming policy shifts under the incoming Trump administration cast a shadow over these celebrations.
Brace for Impact: Trump's Next Moves in Healthcare
The Trump administration's return to the White House signals a period of potentially transformative shifts in U.S. healthcare policy, focusing on substantial deregulation, aggressive cost-reduction measures, and a restructuring of key federal healthcare programs.
Takeaways from the 2024 Republican National Convention
After four eventful days, the 2024 Republican National Convention has come to a close with Donald Trump and running mate JD Vance accepting the Republican nomination.
Section 301 Tariff Exclusions Extended
On December 26, 2023, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (“USTR”) announced that it will further extend 352 reinstated exclusions and 77 COVID-related exclusions to duties imposed on goods from China pursuant to Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 until May 31, 2024. A docket for public comments on existing exclusions will open on January 22, 2024 and close on February 21, 2024, giving American businesses just one month to restate their case.
Lessons Learned from the Covid-19 Pandemic: A DC Perspective
This week marks the end of the U.S. national emergency to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic as President Joe Biden signed a bipartisan congressional resolution to bring it to a close after three years — weeks before it was set to expire alongside a separate public health emergency. The President signed the measure after having initially opposed the congressional resolutions.
Farm Bill Discussion Needs to Focus on Food Security as Foreign Competition Takes US Markets
With the next Farm Bill under discussion, it is time for the U.S. Congress to take account of how its special set asides in feeding programs have hurt U.S. farmers to the benefit of foreign farmers and importers. Also, Congress should use its oversight authority to shine a light on how President Biden’s continuation of the tin plate tariffs are undermining his efforts to advance the interests of American workers.
ITC Report Finds U.S. Importers - Not China - Paid Trump Administration Tariffs
International Trade Commission finds U.S. importers bore nearly the full costs of 232/301 tariffs.