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The United States and Ukraine have signed a rare minerals deal that grants America access to develop Ukraine's natural resources including rare minerals, oil and natural gas.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday, after the signing, that the deal sends a clear signal to Russia, that America was supporting a "free, sovereign" Ukraine.
"As the president has said, the United States is committed to helping facilitate the end of this cruel and senseless war," Bessent said in a statement on Wednesday. "This agreement signals clearly to Russia that the Trump administration is committed to a peace process centered on a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine over the long term.
"And to be clear, no state or person who financed or supplied the Russian war machine will be allowed to benefit from the reconstruction of Ukraine," he added.
What to know
- Ukraine's first deputy prime minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, flew out to Washington on Wednesday to sign the deal with Bessent.
- Svyrydenko wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "On behalf of the Government of Ukraine, I signed the Agreement on the Establishment of a United States–Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund. Together with the United States, we are creating the Fund that will attract global investment into our country."
- The deal will set up a joint investment fund which must invest in the development of Ukraine for 10 years, through developments in mining, energy and related technology, as well as the purchase of Ukrainian products.
Newsweek's live blog is closed.
Court declines to lift restrictions on DOGE access to Social Security information
A federal appeals court has declined to lift the restrictions on Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to Social Security systems, AP reports.
U.S. District Judge Ellen Hollander had issued a preliminary injunction earlier this month after a group of labor unions and retired Americans sued to stop DOGE's access to the highly personal information, citing privacy laws and security risks.
On Wednesday, an appeals panel voted 9-6 to keep the ruling.
New Trump golf course, $5.5 billion beachside project announced for Qatar
The Trump Organization, founded by President Donald Trump and co-led by his sons Eric and Donald Jr., on Wednesday announced a new deal to develop a luxury golf resort in Qatar, signaling it has no intention of slowing foreign business activity during Trump's second term.
The announcement of a Trump-branded golf resort in Qatar underscores the deepening ties between the president's affiliated company and Gulf nations. Trump is set to visit Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates in the coming weeks, while his son Eric, executive vice president of the Trump Organization, is currently there.
The development will feature a Trump International Golf Course and Trump Villas, part of the $5.5 billion Simaisma beachside project located roughly 40 minutes north of Doha. Led by Qatari Diar, the development is envisioned as a sprawling entertainment district that will include an 18-hole golf course and a "Land of Legends" theme park, a source told Reuters.
AOC says impeachment 'should absolutely be on the table'
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez told reporters at Congress on Wednesday that impeachment should "absolutely be on the table" if Democrats win the House back next year.
Asked if Democrats would try and pursue impeachment if they take back House majority, Ocasio-Cortez said, "I don't think that we should be, you know, promising anything the way that Trump tries to promise certain, you know, locking up his political enemies."
"But I do believe that our legal processes exist for a reason. Impeachment exists for a reason, and it should absolutely be on the table, should be on the table for every president," she added, according to NBC.
She added that she believes there had been "plenty of law-breaking" since Trump returned to office. "That should be examined and looked at," she added.
Democrats have 'little appetite' for Kamala Harris after election: Analyst

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to deliver her first major speech following her 2024 presidential election loss to Donald Trump, and analysts discussed her political prospects, with one saying that Democrats have "little appetite" for her.
Following her election loss in November and Trump's inauguration in January, Harris has kept a somewhat low political profile.
Democrats have also faced growing turmoil and scrutiny following the election loss, as the party struggles with delivering a cohesive message and a leader who resonates with voters. After the 2024 election, Republicans gained control of the White House, Senate and Congress.
Harris is slated to be the keynote speaker at Emerge America's 20th anniversary gala in San Francisco Wednesday night. Emerge America is an organization aimed at helping women implement change in politics.
Senate Majority Leader Thune initiates vote block further vote on halting tariffs
A bipartisan vote to halt Trump's global tariffs has failed in the Senate.
The vote is expected to have passed if Republican Senator Mitch McConnell and Democrat Senator Sheldon Whitehouse had not been absent. McConnell was ill during the vote while Whitehouse was traveling.
Now Senate Majority Leader John Thune is taking steps to try and prevent lawmakers from putting forward a similar vote ever again.
Are Seattle ports empty because of tariffs? What we know about viral TikTok
Container ships carrying tons of cargo file into the Port of Seattle each day, bringing goods from Asia across the Pacific Ocean. But TikToker MossyMatriarch posted from Washington state on Monday, saying the tariffs may have pushed paused on port traffic.
"There are no international ships at the shipping ports in Seattle right now and the last one is scheduled for the 29th. That means that major supply chain issues are gonna start happening," the creator said in the video.
Kate Nolan, spokesperson for the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA), told Newsweek that while they are seeing increases in numbers of ships year-over-year, the number of cargo containers has dropped. The NWSA includes the ports of Seattle and Tacoma.
"We are seeing some vessels coming in with less cargo than anticipated, and we are hearing from exporters and importers directly on canceled orders, especially with China, Nolan said in an email. "These impacts are real and will likely be reflected in our data in the coming months."
Senate Democrats force vote on blocking tariffs
Senate Democrats are forcing a vote on whether to block Trump's tariffs on Wednesday evening.
Trump announced global tariffs on April 2 before reversing them with a 90-day pause a few days after Wall Street was sent into a tailspin.
The uncertainty of the tariffs and their impact has slowed economic growth and sparked concerns of a potential recession. On Wednesday, the Commerce Department confirmed the GDP shrank 0.3% from January through March.
It is unlikely that the resolution will pass the Senate but Democrats are keen to test Republicans' support for the tariffs.
FBI agents who kneeled during 2020 racial justice protest are reassigned: Report
The FBI has reassigned several agents who were pictured in a viral photograph kneeling during a 2020 George Floyd protest in Washington, AP reports.
It is not yet clear why the agents were reassigned.
The FBI did not immediately respond to Associated Press' request for comment.
Republican tears into Rand Paul over breaking with Trump on tariffs

Randy Fine, Republican U.S. representative from Florida, ripped into GOP Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky over the senator's efforts to block President Donald Trump from wielding "emergency" powers on tariffs.
Stock markets dipped, and experts warned of a possible recession after Trump's flip-flops on tariffs in recent weeks. The president threatened that the United States would impose tariffs on more than 180 countries and a 10 percent "baseline" tariff on all imports.
Following pushback from a number of Republicans and advisers, Trump reversed course and announced on social media that he was issuing a 90-day pause and a "substantially" lower reciprocal tariff rate of 10 percent. Stocks immediately took off following the announcement.
Trump has also suffered a slide in the polls in recent weeks, as more Americans have seemingly soured on his handling of the economy and other key policies like immigration.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says deal sends clear message to Russia
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent celebrated signing the deal today which he said sent a clear signal to Russia that America was supporting a "free, sovereign" Ukraine.
"As the president has said, the United States is committed to helping facilitate the end of this cruel and senseless war," Bessent said in a statement on Wednesday.
"This agreement signals clearly to Russia that the Trump administration is committed to a peace process centered on a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine over the long term.
"And to be clear, no state or person who financed or supplied the Russian war machine will be allowed to benefit from the reconstruction of Ukraine," he added.
US and Ukraine sign minerals deal
The U.S. and Ukraine have signed the minerals deal, Yulia Svyrydenko, Ukraine's First Deputy Prime Minister said.
The deal grants the U.S access to develop Ukraine's natural resources including rare minerals, as well as oil and natural gas.
"On behalf of the Government of Ukraine, I signed the Agreement on the Establishment of a United States–Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund," Svyrydenko posted on X, former Twitter, on Wednesday.
"Together with the United States, we are creating the Fund that will attract global investment into our country."
On behalf of the Government of Ukraine, I signed the Agreement on the Establishment of a United States–Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund.
— Yulia Svyrydenko (@Svyrydenko_Y) April 30, 2025
Together with the United States, we are creating the Fund that will attract global investment into our country. pic.twitter.com/8ryyAMqW83
Trump says Apple investing in plants all over US thanks to tariffs
President Trump thanked Apple's Tim Cook during his "Investing in America" speech on Wednesday, for his $500 billion investment in the U.S.
Trump said that Apple had "already started" buildings plants "across the country."
"They are coming in to the U.S. because of the spirit, and the tariffs and the incentives," Trump added.
The president has spent several minutes noting the investments made by big companies in the U.S. and thanking their CEOs.
Trump addresses poor GDP report during speech on investing in America
Trump addressed today's poor GBP report, which showed a shrinking economy, during his "Investing in America" event with American business leaders at the White House.
"This is Biden's economy," Trump said. "You have to give us a little bit of time to get moving."
Ford CEO welcomes relief on auto tariffs
Ford CEO Jim Farley has welcomed President Trump's decision to ease tariffs on automakers, but he said more work was needed to create a "comprehensive set of policies to support our shared vision of that healthy and growing auto industry."
Speaking to employees at a Kentucky plant on Wednesday, Farley said that Ford manufactures more in the U.S. compared to its competitors which will also alleviate some of the impact of the tariffs.
"The changes this week on tariff plans will help ease the impact of tariffs for automakers, suppliers and consumers," Farley said. "But this is what we really care about. We need to continue to work closely with the administration on a comprehensive set of policies to support our shared vision of that healthy and growing auto industry. And we are not there yet."
Trump addresses business leaders at the White House
President Donald Trump is addressing business leaders at the White House to mark his first 100 days back in office.
Trump kicked off the speech by scolding an aide for not giving the CEOs front seats at the event. They were instead sat behind Trump's Cabinet members.
"You should have given them to the business leaders, we want their money," he joked.
Trump administration reveals process for targeting international students
The Department of Homeland Security has revealed the process it used to revoke visas from thousands of international students.
Officials for the department told a Washington D.C. court that between 10 and 20 employees at Homeland Security had run the names of 1.3 million foreign-born students through an FBI-run index that includes criminal histories, called the National Crime Information Center.
They said that they had 6,400 hits on the index for international students with potential brushes with the law.
Names were then sent to the State Department and around 3,000 students had their visas revoked.
The State Department also instructed Homeland Security to terminate the students' Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer brands Trump's first 100 days a 'failure'
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has said that President Trump's first 100 days can be defined by "one big F word — failure."
Schumer joined other Democrats on the steps of the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday to call out Trump's agenda and policies so far.
He also attacked House and Senate Republicans who he said were "co-conspirators" with Trump for driving the American economy "into the ground."
Trump impeachment effort faces resistance — from House Democrats
An attempt by Representative Shri Thanedar, a Michigan Democrat, to impeach President Donald Trump is facing resistance from the congressman's own party.
Thanedar introduced seven articles of impeachment against Trump on Monday, accusing him of a "sweeping abuse of power, flagrant violations of the Constitution, and acts of tyranny that undermine American democracy and threaten the rule of law." But few Democrats have voiced support for impeaching him, as the party remains divided about the best way to handle a second Trump presidency.
Trump was impeached twice during his first presidency but was acquitted by the U.S. Senate in both cases.
Representative Pete Aguilar, a California Democrat who serves as chair of the House Democratic Caucus, told reporters Democrats aren't eyeing impeachment against Trump at this point on Tuesday, just one day after Thanedar introduced his articles of impeachment.
Trump called Fox News to complain abouts poll: White House
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters during a Wednesday briefing that President Donald Trump has not been pleased with some of Fox News' polling results.
Leavitt said that the president had even personally called the network to complain.
"I know he's made some phone calls to express his displeasure with it as well," she said.
Leavitt on Fox News's polling, which sometimes doesn't reflect well on Trump: "I know he's made some phone calls to express his displeasure with it as well." pic.twitter.com/P0cGi7AwnQ
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 30, 2025
Two more countries could take deported U.S. migrants: report

The Trump administration has held discussions with Libya and Rwanda about the potential transfer of migrants with criminal records from the United States to those countries, multiple sources familiar with the talks told CNN.
In January, President Donald Trump directed top administration officials to pursue international agreements that would enable the U.S. to relocate asylum seekers to third countries.
The United States already has a similar agreement in place with El Salvador, which has been accepting Venezuelan nationals and detaining them in the country's infamous Terrorism Confinement Center, known as CECOT.
Beyond deporting migrants with criminal records, administration officials are also exploring a formal "safe third country" agreement with Libya, one source told CNN. Such a deal would allow the U.S. to send asylum seekers caught at the border to Libya to process their claims, although CNN reported that no final decision has been made and the nationalities eligible for transfer remain unclear.
At Tuesday's Cabinet meeting, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. is in talks with countries to try to get them to take people from third countries who are in the country illegally. Rubio told President Donald Trump and officials that the conversations are with "not just El Salvador."
"We are working with other countries to say, 'We want to send you some of the most despicable human beings to your countries,'" Rubio said. "'Will you do that as a favor to us?' And the further away the better, so they can't come back across the border."
Schumer calls Trump's first 100 days a 'failure'
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Wednesday criticized Trump, calling his first 100 days "one big F word — failure."
Speaking alongside fellow Democrats on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, Schumer accused Trump of undermining democracy and tanking the economy.
He also blamed Republican lawmakers for enabling the president's actions, labeling them "complicit" and "co-conspirators."
Memorial wall for fallen USAID staff to be removed with uncertain future
The federal government has hired a contractor to take down the memorial wall honoring U.S. Agency for International Development staffers killed in the line of duty, with no clear plan yet for its relocation, The Associated Press reported this afternoon.
The wall, which features engraved tiles for 99 USAID employees killed since the agency's founding in the early 1960s, is being removed from the now-shuttered headquarters after Trump and Elon Musk closed the agency's main offices and slashed operations shortly after Trump took office.
A $41,142 contract was posted Tuesday to remove and relocate the wall by June 6, though officials have not said where it will go. Families of the fallen and former staff have voiced concern that the memorial may not be preserved with proper respect.
Suggestions have included placing the wall at the Smithsonian or National Cathedral, though a competing idea involves moving it to a rented office space, according to a former official familiar with the discussions.
Warnock urges public to protest Trump's 'assault on our norms'
Senator Raphael Warnock on Wednesday condemned former Trump during a Democratic press conference at the U.S. Capitol, accusing him of launching "an all-out assault on our norms and our values."
Warnock argued that Trump and his allies are attempting to "weaponize despair" and exhaust the public into inaction. "They're trying to so beat us down that we will be too weary to fight," he said. "It's our job to prove them wrong."
He also called on Americans to take to the streets, drawing parallels to the Civil Rights Movement. "Know that as we fight on the inside, we need you to fight on the outside," Warnock said.
Judge frees Palestinian Columbia student arrested during citizenship interview
A federal judge on Wednesday ordered the release of Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian student at Columbia University who was arrested by immigration agents while finalizing his U.S. citizenship. Mahdawi had helped lead campus protests against Israel's war in Gaza and was detained earlier this month.
Judge Geoffrey Crawford ruled that Mahdawi presented a strong case that his arrest was politically motivated, writing that "even if he were a firebrand," his activism is protected under the First Amendment. Mahdawi, a legal permanent resident for 10 years, had been held in a Vermont prison since April 14.
After walking free, Mahdawi joined supporters in chants of "Free Palestine" and urged solidarity in the fight for democracy and human rights. "We want to stand up for humanity," he said. "What happens in America affects the world."
The U.S. government claims Mahdawi's presence poses a national security threat and foreign policy risk, citing a closed 2015 FBI case. The judge rejected that argument, pointing to a lack of evidence and drawing comparisons to political crackdowns in U.S. history.
Mahdawi, born in a West Bank refugee camp, now plans to attend his Columbia graduation and begin a master's program this fall.
Bessent says U.S. ready to sign Ukraine mineral deal despite delays
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Wednesday that the U.S. is prepared to sign a long-anticipated agreement granting access to Ukraine's mineral resources, but indicated that Kyiv introduced unexpected changes.
"Our side is ready to sign," Bessent told reporters during President Trump's cabinet meeting. "The Ukrainians decided last night to make some last-minute changes. We're sure that they will reconsider that."
He added that the U.S. remains ready to move forward with the deal as soon as Ukraine agrees, possibly as early as this afternoon.
Trump officials give SNAP benefits update
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. provided updates about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during Tuesday's Cabinet meeting at the White House.
Rollins told President Donald Trump that "a big part of USDA is food stamps," calling it "perhaps one of the largest — if not the largest — welfare program."
She said that she has been working "very closely" with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on potential changes to the program.
"Secretary Kennedy and I have been working very closely," Rollins said. "You can't make America healthy again without your farmers and your ranchers as your partner, so [we're] ensuring that our food stamp program and those at the bottom end of the socioeconomic ladder really have access to nutritious foods as we're facing an obesity crisis and a chronic disease crisis."
Later in the meeting, Kennedy said that he was working with Rollins "to get sodas and candy off of the food stamp program."
RFK JR: And we are working also with Secretary Rollins on the snap program… to get sodas and candy off of the food stamp program. pic.twitter.com/NkF5mo5scc
— Acyn (@Acyn) April 30, 2025
Trump says Americans may need to adjust spending amid China trade war
President Donald Trump on Wednesday told Americans they may need to change their spending habits as his administration continues its trade war with China, suggesting that consumers could live with fewer and slightly more expensive goods.
"Maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30," Trump said, downplaying concerns over empty store shelves and higher prices due to tariffs on Chinese imports.
Retail executives have warned the White House that disruptions in supply chains could begin as early as this summer, but Trump said many Chinese goods are unnecessary. "Much of which we don't need," he added, calling China the "chief ripper-offer" of the U.S. economy.
Rubio says he'll 'never tell' a judge if talks are underway to return Abrego Garcia
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said he will "never tell" a judge whether he is in communication with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele about the return of mistakenly deported Maryland man Kilmar Abrego Garcia.
"The conduct of our foreign policy belongs to the president of the United States and the executive branch, not some judge," Rubio told reporters during Wednesday's Cabinet meeting.
U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis of Maryland has accused the Trump administration of demonstrating a"willful and bad faith refusal to comply with discovery obligations."
Today, she denied a motion from the administration to further delay discovery in the case, following a seven-day pause.
A defiant Rubio said that the Trump administration will continue to conduct "foreign policy appropriately," but will not discuss it "and no one will ever make us discuss it."
How to know if student loans are in default before change happens next week

A major shift in federal student loan policy takes effect May 5 as the U.S. Department of Education begins reporting defaulted loans to credit agencies again—a move that could impact millions of Americans' financial standing.
The change ends a pandemic-era pause in negative credit reporting and renews pressure on borrowers who remain behind on payments.
Roughly 43 million Americans hold student loans, with an estimated 9 million currently behind on payments or already in default.
Those with loans more than 270 days delinquent are considered in default, which until now had not been reported to credit agencies due to the federal "Fresh Start" initiative launched during the COVID-19 pandemic.
That program suspended the negative consequences of default, including damaged credit scores. But beginning May 5, defaulted loans will once again be reported, lowering affected borrowers' credit ratings and potentially increasing the cost of borrowing for everything from car loans to mortgages.
How Elon Musk's net worth has changed in Donald Trump's 100 days
Elon Musk's net worth has taken a hit during the first 100 days of Donald Trump's second presidency, with the billionaire's fortune shrinking as he led the Department of Government Efficiency to cut federal departments and agencies.
Though Musk has kept a lower public profile with DOGE in recent days, he appeared at a White House Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
Forbes' real-time billionaires list puts Musk at $383.6 billion as of April 30, 2025. The Bloomberg Billionaires Index, a daily ranking of the world's richest, puts the Tesla CEO at $335 billion.
According to Fortune, his net worth has fallen by approximately $113 billion since Trump returned to office. That's a 25 percent drop.
Musk's Starbase city set for likely approval in Texas vote
Elon Musk's plan to turn the SpaceX launch site in South Texas into an official city called Starbase appears close to reality, with a local election set for Saturday and most eligible voters already casting ballots.
The proposed city covers just over a square mile near the Mexico border and includes company housing and launch facilities. Of the 283 eligible voters — many of whom are SpaceX employees — nearly 200 have already voted.
While Musk's plan enjoys strong local and state support, critics warn it could give SpaceX too much control over public beach access. Recent state legislation tied to the proposed city has also raised concerns, with one measure rejected this week by a Texas House panel.
Trump admin 'actively searching' for other countries to take America's deported migrants
Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters at Wednesday's Cabinet meeting that the Trump administration is "actively searching for other countries to take people from third countries."
"We are working with other countries to say, 'We want to send you some of the most despicable human beings to your countries'," Rubio said.
He added that he ater adding, "further away from America the better, so they can't come back across the border. I'm not apologetic about it."
The administration already have a deal with El Salvador to take undocumented migrants from the U.S., regardless of their home country. More than 200 migrants, who the administration claim are Venezuelan gang members, were deported to a notorious jail in the country in March. That move has since been challenged by the courts.
The Supreme Court ruled on 8 April that Trump could continue to use the Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged gang members but they had to be allowed to challenge their removal.
Senate to vote on bipartisan push to block Trump's global tariffs
The Senate is expected to vote Tuesday evening on a bipartisan resolution aimed at halting Trump's global tariffs by revoking the emergency powers he used to impose them.
The vote, scheduled for 5:25 p.m. ET, is part of a two-part series and marks the first legislative challenge to Trump's tariff authority since his return to office.
US 'ready to sign' minerals deal with Ukraine: Treasury Secretary Bessent
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told reporters at a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, that the U.S. was "ready to sign" a rare earth minerals deal with Ukraine.
Bessent was asked about reports that Ukraine has requested last-minute changes to the deal.
The treasury secretary denied the reports, saying, "We are ready to sign this afternoon."
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on Wednesday, "We are finalizing the last details with our American colleagues.
"As soon as all the final details are worked out in the near future, I hope within the day, the agreement will be signed, and accordingly, we will take the first step," she added.
Trump speaks about call with new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney
President Trump shared details about his call with Canada's new prime minister, Mark Carney.
"I spoke to him yesterday, he couldn't have been nicer," Trump said.
The president added that Carney wants to make a deal on tariffs and is expected to visit the White House within days.
Trump 'not taking credit' for stock market
President Trump told reporters at Wednesday's Cabinet meeting that he is not "taking a credit" for the stock market as global markets have continued to tumble over his tariffs and slow economic growth.
Despite taking full credit when stock soared in November, following his election victory, Trump instead blamed the slump on the Biden administration.
"I'm not taking a credit or discredit for the stock market," Trump said. "I'm just saying we inherited a mess."
Trump's 'economic fantasy' in trouble as US lurches toward recession
Economists are holding up recent data pointing to a contraction in the U.S. economy as evidence that concerns over a recession caused by President Donald Trump's tariffs may be beginning to materialize.
According to the advanced U.S. GDP estimates, released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) on Wednesday, the U.S. economy contracted by 0.3 percent year-on-year in the first quarter. This compares to an expected 0.3 percent increase, 2.4 percent growth last quarter, and marks the first decline in three years.
As President Donald Trump has unveiled an expanding list of tariffs—many of them directed at China, the U.S.' largest import partner—widespread concerns have emerged that these actions could result in higher prices for consumers while having a damaging impact on American businesses and the economy at large.
Economists told Newsweek that, while they were largely unsurprised by the data, it signals an unfortunate sign that the U.S. may be approaching, or has already entered, a significant economic downturn.
John Roberts could swing Supreme Court battle over religious charter school
Chief Justice John Roberts appears to hold the deciding vote in a closely watched Supreme Court case that could determine whether the nation's first publicly funded religious charter school is allowed to operate in Oklahoma.
During more than two hours of oral arguments Wednesday, the justices split along familiar ideological lines—with four conservatives appearing to favor the school's case and three liberals siding with the Oklahoma Supreme Court's decision that blocked the school from opening, citing First Amendment concerns.
Justice Amy Coney Barrett recused herself without explanation, leaving the outcome potentially hinging on Roberts. Barrett, who formerly taught law at Notre Dame, is close friends with professor Nicole Garnett, a prominent advocate for publicly funded religious charter schools.
The case centers on St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, a proposed K-12 charter school that openly states its mission to evangelize students in the Catholic faith. Charter schools are considered public institutions in Oklahoma and nearly every other state, meaning they must abide by state funding and oversight rules. Critics argue that allowing a religious charter school undermines the separation of church and state, while supporters claim it aligns with recent court decisions permitting public funds to support religious entities under the First Amendment's protections of religious freedom.
JD Vance lays into the media during Cabinet meeting
Vice President JD Vance has accused the media of focusing on the wrong things during Trump's first 100 days in office.
Vance said that the news should be covering the uptick in military recruitment, rather than the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was wrongly deported to El Salvador last month.
"Why is it that the press is so focused on the fake B.S., rather than what's really going on in the country?" Vance said.
Trump blames Biden as economy contracts amid tariff fears
President Donald Trump sought to deflect blame on Wednesday after new economic data showed the U.S. economy shrank by 0.3% in the first quarter, driven by a surge in imports ahead of his sweeping new tariffs. The contraction, which sent markets dipping early in the day, came as companies raced to buy goods before expected price hikes from tariffs on steel, autos, and more.
"This is Biden's Stock Market, not Trump's," the president posted on his social media platform, dismissing concerns that his trade policies were behind the downturn. He argued that tariffs would soon boost domestic manufacturing and help the U.S. economy grow — but added that Biden's lingering policies would take time to reverse.
Democrats pointed to the GDP numbers as early warning signs of a recession sparked by Trump's economic agenda. "The economy is slowing, prices are going up, and middle-class families are feeling the pinch," said Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon. Former Biden economic adviser Heather Boushey called the reversal "astonishing."
Trump officials defended the figures, blaming the GDP dip on import timing and promising that planned tax cuts would spur future growth. "All we're seeing is good, strong news," said White House trade adviser Peter Navarro.
Still, tensions emerged as Trump claimed credit for U.S. investment tied to Biden-era legislation, including major semiconductor projects supported by the 2024 CHIPS and Science Act. Trump insisted companies were moving to the U.S. "because of the tariffs," even as some of those investments began years earlier.
As he marked his 100th day back in office, Trump doubled down on his trade approach, insisting, "Everybody's gonna be just fine."
Harvard bias report, GDP growth signs, and Trump's law firm deals stir debate
On CNN News Central Wednesday, anchors Kate Bolduan, John Berman, and Sara Sidner spoke with prominent political and academic figures on a range of national issues, from campus discrimination to economic forecasts and legal controversies.
Former Harvard president Larry Summers called a new report on antisemitism and anti-Muslim bias at the university "searing," noting it confirms longstanding concerns. He praised some of the administration's steps, such as leadership changes and program closures, but emphasized that "much more needs to be done" to foster a culture that doesn't tolerate bigotry.
Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA) weighed in on the latest GDP report, arguing that despite some concerns, deeper analysis reveals positive trends, including rising exports and investment. Kiley said the data points to "significant economic growth going forward" and previewed congressional plans to extend tax cuts.
Rep. Dave Min (D-CA) criticized Trump for pressuring law firms into nearly $1 billion in pro bono legal work to avoid being targeted by executive orders. He called it "a direct attack on the rule of law," warning that it amounts to "fascism playing out right now in America."
RFK's duck-themed ring tone interrupts Cabinet meeting
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s duck-themed ringtone interrupted President Donald Trump's Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
The loud quacks from the cellphone rang out shortly before the formal convening began.
It is not the first time Kennedy's unique ringtone had been heard at official events.
His phone could also be heard at his live town hall event with talk show host Dr. Phil McGraw on Monday.
Elon Musk dons two hats at once as he attends Trump's Cabinet meeting

Tesla CEO Elon Musk once again attended Trump's meeting of Cabinet meeting.
The billionaire, who has been leading the efforts to cut federal funding, initially wore a DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) cap before swapping it for one of the Gulf of America hats on the table.
Apparently unable to decide which he preferred, he then decided to wear both at once.
Republican students break with Trump over deporting people for protests

About two-thirds of Republican college students oppose deporting international students for organizing campus protests, while more than 7-in-10 oppose deportations for critiquing Israel, according to a new Newsweek/College Pulse survey.
President Donald Trump campaigned on cracking down on illegal immigration, making it a top priority since he entered office in January and appointed Tom Homan as his border czar to influence policies. Results have been met with below-average enthusiasm, according to recent polls.
Under a Trump executive order, those polices have extended to deporting international students for organizing or participating in pro-Palestinian protests, which became commonplace last year at several colleges and universities with encampments that led to both students and faculty members being arrested.
The Newsweek/College Pulse survey found that 65 percent of respondents identifying as Republicans oppose deporting international students who engaged in campus protests, while 71 percent said they opposed deporting students for speech critical of Israel.
Of the 65 percent, 38 percent "somewhat opposed" such measures while 27 percent "strongly opposed" them.
About 35 percent somewhat opposed deportation for bad-mouthing Israel, and 36 percent strongly opposed it. Just 3 percent strongly supported such measures.
The second wave of this survey was conducted between April 9 and 15 and included 1,022 undergraduate students. The first wave was conducted between January 27 and 31, including 1,207 additional undergraduates. The College Pulse sample was drawn from a panel that includes over 950,000 students representing more than 1,500 different colleges and universities in all 50 states.
Trump admin reveals plans to tackle air traffic controller shortage
United States Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy announced the Trump administration's plan to tackle the current air traffic controller shortage.
Duffy said that he plans to ask current air traffic controllers to work past their retirement eligibility age to try and make up the 3,000 shortfall.
"We don't have enough air traffic controllers," Duffy said at Wednesday's Cabinet meeting. "We're about 3,000 short.
"We're working on an agreement with the union so when controllers become retirement eligible, we're going to cut a deal to try and get them to stay longer, stay in the tower."
Trump applauds cabinet's 'genius' as officials highlight wins in choreographed meeting
During a televised cabinet meeting Wednesday, Trump praised what he called "real genius stuff" as members of his administration took turns highlighting record-breaking achievements and major deals.
The display echoed recent comments from Trump's chief of staff, Susie Wiles, who told The New York Post on Tuesday that cabinet members were "spectacular performers."
Collins breaks with Trump over biomedical research cuts
Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins is pushing back against the Trump administration's approach to federal biomedical research, warning that proposed funding cuts and staff layoffs could jeopardize U.S. scientific leadership.
At a Wednesday committee hearing, the Maine Republican criticized moves to slash the National Institutes of Health budget and cancel major research grants. "Proposed funding cuts, the firing of essential federal scientists, and policy uncertainties threaten to undermine the foundation for our nation's global leadership," Collins said.
She added that U.S. dominance in biomedical innovation is "at real risk and must be reversed."
The administration has already canceled more than 780 NIH research grants, totaling over $2 billion, and is considering a 40% budget cut next year. Collins noted such moves could delay breakthroughs in treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's and childhood cancers.
'Our objective is to replace the IRS,' says Commerce Secretary Lutnick
Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick told Trump's Cabinet meeting on Wednesday that the administration's goal was to use the tariffs to replace the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
"You got the tariffs, you have hundreds and hundreds of billions of dollars coming in to build the External Revenue Service," he said.
"Our objective is, of course, to replace the Internal Revenue Service and let those outside countries trading with us, let them pay their fair share to America.
"You got rid of de minimis, and what happened is you got these foreign countries sending in these little packages, for free, and knocking out our mom-and-pop businesses across America. You put an end to it and you're going to rebuild the our mom-and-pop small businesses of America."
De minimis was an exception that allowed shipments worth under $800 to enter the U.S. without paying tariffs or filing paperwork.
Trump ribs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at cabinet meeting
During a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Trump poked fun at his Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, by calling on him to speak first, joking that he was the "least controversial person" at the table. The lighthearted moment drew some laughs around the room.
Trump quickly followed up the remark by praising Hegseth, adding, "They don't know how good he is."
The president's comment seemed aimed at downplaying recent media scrutiny while reaffirming his confidence in Hegseth's leadership at the Pentagon.
Trump blames Biden for poor GDP report
President Donald Trump has blamed the Biden administration for the poor GDP report that showed that the economy had shrunk during the first three months of 2025.
"That's Biden, that's not Trump because we came in, in January, these are quarterly numbers," Trump said during his Cabinet meeting Wednesday. "We came in and I was very against everything that Biden was doing in terms of the economy, destroying our country.
"We took over his mess. We had numbers that, despite what we were handed, we turned them around."
Ukraine nears deal giving U.S. access to rare minerals
Ukraine is preparing to sign a long-term deal with the United States that would give Washington access to its rare earth minerals in exchange for continued American support in the war against Russia, senior Ukrainian officials said Wednesday. Ukraine's economy minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, was on her way to Washington to help finalize the agreement.
Ukrainian leaders say the deal is critical for securing future U.S. military aid. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said it would create a joint investment fund between the two countries and mark a "truly equal" partnership. The current version of the deal would last 10 years and apply only to new aid, not previous U.S. assistance.
Talks have stalled in the past, especially after a tense Oval Office meeting earlier this year. President Donald Trump had demanded access to Ukraine's rare earths—such as titanium and uranium—as a condition for ongoing support, calling it repayment for billions in aid already provided.
The U.S. is seeking more than 20 strategic materials, including those used in aircraft, nuclear energy, and electric vehicle batteries. Ukraine reportedly revised the draft to address concerns that the original terms heavily favored American interests.
Meanwhile, U.S. frustration with the slow pace of peace negotiations is growing. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned both sides to offer concrete proposals or risk losing U.S. mediation support. Russia has rejected an immediate ceasefire unless Ukraine halts mobilization and arms deliveries.
Civilian casualties in Ukraine are rising, according to the U.N., and Russian attacks continue to hit major cities like Kharkiv. Ukraine's security services also claimed responsibility for a drone strike on a Russian defense plant, though the report has not been independently confirmed.
Trump holds kicks off Cabinet meeting with Gulf of America hats on full display
President Donald Trump is currently holding a Cabinet meeting to mark the first 100 days of his second term.
On the table, in clear view of the cameras, were several red MAGA-style caps that read "Gulf of America."
Trump signed an executive order to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico shortly after returning to office. The rest of the world continues to refer to the area by its original name.
Peter Navarro calls GDP report 'very positive news' despite shrinking economy
Special counselor to the president, Peter Navarro, called Wednesday's GDP report "very positive news" for Americans, despite data showing the U.S. economy shrank under Donald Trump's first three months of his second term.
"This was the best negative print, as they say in the trade, for GDP I have ever seen in my life," Navarro told reporters at the White House. "It really should be very positive news for America."
The report showed the U.S. economy contracted for the first time in three years, with a 0.3% decline in gross domestic product for the first quarter of 2025. The stock markets slumped in reaction to the news with the Dow opening down 300 points.
There was an increase in business spending and imports as many companies scramble to get ahead of Trump's tariffs.
"We've seen amidst the media barrage against the Trump tariffs and warnings and all of that, a slight deterioration of consumer sentiment and to a certain extent, business sentiment. That's what we call soft data. But when you look at the hard data, all we're seeing is good, strong news," Navarro said.
Donald Trump's admission 'proof of a violation' in deportations—Lawyer
President Donald Trump has said he has the power to bring Kilmar Abrego Garcia back to the United States but is refusing to exert his authority to return him.
In an interview with ABC's Terry Moran that aired on Tuesday, the journalist said the president had the power to have Abrego Garcia, who was wrongly deported to El Salvador in March despite a court order blocking his removal, returned with a simple phone call to Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele.
"I could," Trump said, adding: "And if he were the gentleman that you say he is, I would do that. But he's not."
Trump's comments mark a shift from his administration's earlier position that the U.S. lacked the legal means to return Abrego Garcia while he remained in Salvadoran custody.
The Maryland man was arrested in 2019, accused of being a member of the MS-13 gang, which the second Trump administration designated a foreign terrorist organization. Although Abrego Garcia denied the allegation, two separate judges concluded he was a gang member, relying on confidential information presented to the court.
Michelle Obama speaks out on 'mistake' after moving into White House
Former first lady Michelle Obama has spoken out about what some perceived as a "mistake" she made after moving into the White House.
The Becoming author and her husband, former President Barack Obama, lived at the White House from 2009 to 2017 during his two terms in office. The couple wed in October 1992 and share two daughters: Malia Obama and Sasha Obama.
On Tuesday's Radio Andy call-in episode of SiriusXM's Let's Talk Off Camera With Kelly Ripa, Michelle Obama said she was criticized for prioritizing motherhood following her husband's presidential win.
"How difficult was that to raise your daughters in the public eye under constant threat, total scrutiny all the time?" host Kelly Ripa asked, adding: "What kind of a force field or human shields did you have to invent for them? Because what you did was unprecedented."
Ford to extend employee pricing through July 4 amid tariff uncertainty
Ford CEO Jim Farley told CNN on Wednesday that the company will extend its employee pricing offer to all customers through July 4, calling it a "big commitment" during a time of economic uncertainty.
Farley, speaking from a Ford plant in Louisville, said the move is meant to keep prices low and competitive as fears over rising tariffs continue to weigh on the auto industry. Though he wouldn't commit to holding prices steady beyond that date, Farley said Ford's domestic production footprint puts it in a better position than many rivals.
He added that Ford is actively investing in local manufacturing, pointing to two new U.S. plants under construction and saying the company is "ready to commit" more capital to further localization.
Farley also confirmed that Ford has maintained high-level communication with President Trump's administration to navigate affordability concerns, noting "very high" engagement over the past two months.
Despite a weaker-than-expected GDP report, Farley said Ford has seen strong recent sales, likely driven by customers anticipating future price hikes. Ford's earnings are expected next week.
Elon Musk now advising White House remotely

Elon Musk is no longer physically working from the White House, but officials say his remote involvement hasn't changed much. White House chief of staff Susie Wiles told the New York Post that phone conversations with Musk are having the "same net effect" as his in-person work on government efficiency.
Musk, who serves as an outside adviser and holds a "special government employee" designation, is limited to 130 workdays per year. That limit will be reached on May 30, exactly 130 days after Trump's inauguration.
Despite his physical absence, Wiles said, "His folks aren't going anywhere," signaling Musk's continued influence in the administration's efforts.
Inflation gauge cools ahead of Trump's tariffs, but spending climbs
A key measure of inflation eased in March, offering a brief reprieve before President Donald Trump's new tariffs begin taking full effect. Consumer prices rose 2.3% from a year earlier, down from 2.5% in February, according to Wednesday's report from the Commerce Department. Core inflation, which strips out food and energy, slowed to 2.6%.
The report also showed consumer spending rose a solid 0.7% from February to March. Much of that increase came from a surge in car purchases, which jumped 8.1% as buyers raced to beat Trump's 25% auto tariff that took effect April 3.
Economists say inflation could rebound later this year, potentially hitting 3% or higher as tariffs push prices upward. Already, companies appear to be stockpiling imports ahead of rising duties. That stockpiling helped shrink the economy by 0.3% in the first quarter.
Despite campaign promises to cut prices, Trump has implemented broad duties—25% on cars, steel, and aluminum, and 10% on most other imports. Chinese goods now face a 145% duty.
The Federal Reserve, which targets 2% inflation, is not expected to lower interest rates at next week's meeting, though Trump has publicly called for cuts.
FreightWaves CEO predicts job losses, product shortages amid U.S.-China trade tensions
FreightWaves CEO Craig Fuller shared concerns about significant disruptions in U.S. logistics due to the ongoing U.S.-China trade war in a CNN interview this morning. Fuller forecasted potential job losses ranging from 400,000 to 500,000 in the logistics sector, attributing a 35% drop in imports to the ongoing tariffs.
He also warned consumers about upcoming product shortages, particularly in back-to-school items like backpacks, school supplies, and over-the-counter medicines. These shortages could start as early as June but may be most noticeable by early August.
Fuller stressed the long-term effects of disrupted supply chains, even suggesting that shoppers may need to begin Christmas shopping earlier than usual to avoid limited product availability in stores later this year.
Trump is 'Making Recessions Great Again,' according to Rep. Ritchie Torres
Rep. Ritchie Torres criticized the White House on social media Wednesday after new data showed the U.S. economy shrank by 0.3% in the first quarter, the worst performance since 2022.
"It's official: Donald Trump has finally liberated the American economy—from growth," the New York Democrat posted on X, adding, "Making Recessions Great Again."
It's official: Donald Trump has finally liberated the American economy—from growth. GDP shrank by 0.3%.
— Ritchie Torres (@RitchieTorres) April 30, 2025
Making Recessions Great Again. pic.twitter.com/ynvZXZsLpO
Trump set to revamp Rose Garden, plans White House ballroom
Renovations to the White House Rose Garden lawn are set to begin in the coming weeks, according to chief of staff Susie Wiles.
In an interview with the New York Post, Wiles confirmed the project is moving ahead soon and added that Trump also plans to build a new ballroom on the property. The ballroom is still in the design phase, but Wiles said it could be constructed quickly once planning is complete.
It remains unclear where the ballroom would be located. The East Room currently serves as the White House's largest gathering space for official events.
Since returning to office, Trump has begun to leave his personal mark on the mansion once again.
Trump to meet with cabinet today
Trump will convene a Cabinet meeting at 11 a.m. ET today, just hours after new government data revealed the U.S. economy shrank for the first time since 2022.
Later today, the White House will host a group of high-profile CEOs to spotlight investment gains made during Trump's early tenure. Attendees include leaders from NVIDIA, GE Aerospace, Johnson & Johnson, Eli Lilly, and SoftBank.
A White House official said the event aims to highlight U.S. growth and attract more corporate commitments in the coming months.
Trump blames Biden as US economy goes into reverse
President Donald Trump pointed the finger of blame at former President Joe Biden after data showed the U.S. economy shrank for the first time in three years.
"This is Biden's Stock Market, not Trump's," Trump posted to his Truth Social platform after the economic news dropped, and markets braced to open lower.
"I didn't take over until January 20th. Tariffs will soon start kicking in, and companies are starting to move into the USA in record numbers.
"Our Country will boom, but we have to get rid of the Biden 'Overhang.' This will take a while, has NOTHING TO DO WITH TARIFFS, only that he left us with bad numbers, but when the boom begins, it will be like no other. BE PATIENT!!!"
U.S. economy shrinks for first time in three years amid tariff fears
The U.S. economy has shrunk in the first quarter of 2025 by 0.3%, marking the first decline in three years as businesses rushed to import goods ahead of steep tariffs from Trump's administration.
Growth fell sharply from the 2.4% pace seen in the final quarter of 2024. A surge in imports, aimed at avoiding new trade penalties, subtracted five percentage points from the quarter's performance. Consumer spending also cooled significantly.
Trump took office with a stable economy, but his aggressive trade policies, including a 145% tariff on Chinese imports, have left many businesses uncertain and raised concerns about rising prices for consumers.
U.S. tells world court Israel must allow aid into Gaza but not necessarily through UN agency
The United States told the International Court of Justice on Wednesday that while Israel is obligated to permit humanitarian aid into Gaza, it is not required to coordinate with the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees.
The remarks came during a week of hearings at the U.N.'s top court, which is reviewing Israel's responsibilities in delivering aid to Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The hearings follow a U.N. General Assembly request for an advisory opinion last year.
Josh Simmons, a State Department legal adviser, said Israel had "legitimate concerns" about the U.N. Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and is under no legal obligation to work with a specific organization that could compromise its security. Simmons added that other aid groups could carry out similar work.
Israel banned UNRWA from operating on its territory in January, accusing some of its Gaza-based staff of involvement in Hamas' October 7 attack. UNRWA fired nine employees based on preliminary U.N. findings, though the claims have not been publicly verified. Israel later accused dozens more people of Hamas ties but provided no evidence.
Israel has opted not to participate in the ICJ hearings but submitted written arguments. Meanwhile, Russia defended UNRWA, calling it essential and widely supported, with Russian diplomat Maksim Musikhin saying Gaza is on the brink of famine and that UNRWA "deserves a Nobel Peace Prize."
The hearings come as conditions in Gaza worsen. The World Food Program said its food supplies in Gaza have run out, and humanitarian aid has been largely blocked since early March. Palestinian officials accused Israel of targeting both civilians and aid efforts.
U.S. reveals new details on crackdown against international students
Federal officials have released new information about a sweeping effort to cancel the legal status of thousands of international students, following mounting backlash and legal challenges.
The details came to light through recent lawsuits filed by students whose status was suddenly revoked with little to no explanation. Many affected individuals had their names quietly removed from an immigration database managed by ICE, leaving them vulnerable to deportation or forcing them to leave the country abruptly.
On Friday, the government said it would temporarily reinstate student status for those impacted while developing clearer rules for future enforcement. In a court filing Monday, officials included a new policy document outlining valid grounds for termination, such as the loss of the visa used to enter the U.S.
The move highlights a broader immigration clampdown under President Donald Trump, sparking concern at colleges and universities across the country.
Trump administration to label Haitian gangs as foreign terrorists
The Trump administration has informed Congress of its intent to designate Haitian gangs as foreign terrorist organizations, according to sources familiar with the move.
The designation would apply sanctions and criminal penalties to anyone providing material support to the groups, mirroring actions taken earlier this year against eight Latin American crime organizations, including MS-13 and Tren de Aragua.
It marks the latest step in Trump's hardline immigration and security agenda, which recently used a centuries-old wartime law to justify deporting Venezuelan migrants to a prison in El Salvador.
Trump referenced the designations during a rally in Michigan on Tuesday, praising them as key tools in his administration's efforts to combat gang violence and tighten border enforcement.
Trump: 'We are a respected country again'
In ha interview with ABC News, Trump said that America is "a respected country again," while also slamming former President Joe Biden and calling the network "one of the worst."
.@POTUS: “We are a respected country again… We had a President that couldn’t walk up a flight of stairs… We had a President that was grossly incompetent. You knew it, I knew it… But you guys didn’t want to write it because you’re FAKE NEWS. And by the way, ABC is one of the… pic.twitter.com/n7dK4xd4xi
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 30, 2025
Anti-Trump 'May Day' protesters issue urgent alert on executive orders

Groups planning nationwide protests against President Donald Trump and his administration's policies on Thursday have issued an "urgent" alert over executive orders he signed on Monday.
The orders "escalate the Trump regime's attacks on our democratic values by targeting sanctuary cities in an effort to undermine local governments and embolden law enforcement to cooperate with ICE to disappear our immigrant neighbors with impunity," immigrant rights and civil rights organizations say in a pop-up on a website urging people to sign a solidarity pledge against Trump's mass deportation agenda.
More than 9,000 people have already signed the pledge, according to the website.
Newsweek has contacted the organizers for further comment via a website contact form.
UK joins US in first joint airstrike on Houthis under Trump
The British military joined U.S. forces in airstrikes against Yemen's Houthi rebels late Tuesday, marking the UK's first strike under Trump's renewed campaign, Operation Rough Rider. The UK said it targeted drone manufacturing buildings near Sanaa, aiming to disrupt Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping.
Royal Air Force jets dropped precision-guided bombs in the nighttime raid, with officials emphasizing efforts to avoid civilian casualties. The U.S. has yet to comment on the strike, though it has conducted over 800 attacks since mid-March.
The joint operation comes days after a reported U.S. airstrike killed dozens at a prison in Yemen, drawing international criticism. Britain cited threats to global trade and regional security in defending its action.
Kamala Harris to criticize Trump in high-profile return to spotlight
Former Vice President Kamala Harris will deliver a speech Wednesday at Emerge America's 20th anniversary gala, using the platform to criticize Trump sharply. The remarks are expected to be her most pointed since leaving office in January, touching on Trump's economic policies, treatment of democratic institutions, and foreign affairs.
The appearance comes as Harris reemerges on the political scene, fueling speculation about her next move. While she hasn't ruled out another presidential bid, she's also seen as a top contender for California governor when Gavin Newsom's term ends.
Harris is continuing to fundraise through the Harris Victory Fund and remains a prominent voice in Democratic messaging. In recent outreach, she has called on Democrats to unify against Trump and his allies, warning of the stakes ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Gretchen Whitmer speaking at Trump rally sparks fury: 'Enabling behavior'

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is facing intense backlash after making a surprise appearance at a Donald Trump rally.
Newsweek has contacted Whitmer's office for comment via email.
Whitmer, who is viewed as a likely presidential contender in 2028, has come under scrutiny from Democrats in recent weeks for cultivating a closer working relationship with Trump. Her party is divided over whether to engage with the White House or not as they seek to win back the House and the Senate in 2026, and the presidency in 2028.
Her appearance will likely further isolate Democrats who regard Trump as a toxic figure and are frustrated with what they see as their party's inability to stand up to him, but Whitmer has repeatedly defended her bipartisan approach, saying that she's willing to work with anyone committed to getting results but won't compromise her core beliefs.

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