The Trump administration rejected the Biden plan on Friday, which proposed Medicare and Medicaid covering obesity drugs and increasing access to millions of people.
The Biden administration’s proposal aimed to circumvent the ban on Medicare paying for weight loss drugs by claiming they would treat diseases related to obesity.
Expanding drug coverage would cost the federal government billions of dollars, with an estimated cost of around $35 billion over a decade according to the Congressional Budget Office Estimates.
The decision was part of a larger set of regulations contained in a 438-page document aimed at updating Medicare benefits and private insurance plans used by about half of Medicare beneficiaries.
Catherine Howden, a spokesperson for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, stated that the agency did not believe it was appropriate at the time to approve the Biden plan.
Medicare currently covers a limited set of weight loss medications for individuals with specific health conditions, such as diabetes and heart problems.
The Biden plan aimed to extend coverage to obese patients without these specific diseases, with an estimated 3.4 million people potentially benefiting from the policy.
Popular weight loss pills like Wegovy by Eli Lilly and other related products are now available at reduced prices to patients paying out of pocket.
Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk offer discounts for their products to patients paying out of pocket instead of through insurance, significantly reducing the cost for individuals.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. criticized weight loss pills, advocating for a diet of healthy foods instead.
Clinical trials have shown benefits of weight loss drugs beyond just weight loss, including preventing heart attacks and strokes.
Supporters of expanded drug coverage argue that the long-term health benefits will outweigh the costs, potentially reducing overall medical expenses. However, the realization of such savings remains uncertain.
States’ Medicaid programs now have the option to decide whether to cover obesity drugs or not, with some already opting to provide coverage. If the Biden policy had been implemented, all states would have been required to provide coverage.
The exact cost of obesity drugs for Medicare and Medicaid patients is undisclosed, but it is estimated to be several hundred dollars per patient per month.
Many employers and private health insurance plans do not cover weight loss drugs, leading some to discontinue coverage due to high costs.
Patients without insurance often rely on cheaper generic versions of drugs created through compounding, costing less than $200 a month. However, regulators are phasing out this option due to improved supply of branded products.
Congressional Republicans have shown some interest in urging Medicare to cover weight loss drugs, although this is not a current priority. Negotiations with Novo Nordisk for lower drug prices under a 2022 law have been initiated, with reduced prices scheduled to start in 2027 for eligible individuals.
President Trump has granted Tiktok another extension, pushing back the deadline for the popular app to make a deal regarding its Chinese ownership or face a US ban.
With the Saturday deadline looming, Tiktok now has an additional 75 days to find new owners who will comply with federal laws requiring structural changes to address national security concerns, setting a new deadline in mid-June.
This latest delay marks the second time President Trump has intervened in the Tiktok situation this year, having previously suspended enforcement of the law in January despite unanimous Supreme Court support.
In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump mentioned that the deal requires more work to secure necessary approvals, expressing his desire to avoid a dark outcome and stating his intention to collaborate with Tiktok and China to finalize the deal.
Trump’s recent actions highlight the ongoing complexity of the Tiktok situation. Despite concerns raised by lawmakers and US officials about Tiktok’s safety, the app has solidified its position as a cultural powerhouse.
The extensions raise questions about Trump’s willingness to prioritize presidential authority over the rule of law. The federal law aimed at changing Tiktok’s ownership and imposing a ban was passed last year with wide bipartisan support, only to be effectively nullified when Trump suspended its enforcement in January.
For now, Tiktok will continue operating in the US for the foreseeable future. The app came back to life in January after a temporary shutdown around the time the federal law came into effect.
Tiktok has not yet responded to requests for comment.
There is a higher likelihood of newer and more expensive medicines being produced in the US or Europe, with Ireland emerging as a hub due to its tax benefits.
Many major pharmaceutical products, such as Merck’s keytruda, Eli Lilly’s Zepbound, and Johnson & Johnson’s Stellara, are at least partially manufactured in Ireland.
President Trump acknowledged Ireland’s significance in the pharmaceutical industry during a meeting with Prime Minister Michael Martin in March.
Why did American drug manufacturing move overseas?
US drug production peaked in 2006, coinciding with the loss of patent protection for several top-selling American drugs and the rise of generic manufacturers in India and China. The phasing out of incentives for manufacturing in Puerto Rico led to the shift of production overseas, particularly to countries like Ireland offering tax benefits.
In 2021, most major generic drugs, antibiotics, and antivirals in the US rely on active ingredients produced outside the country, posing a potential risk to domestic drug supply.
President Trump expressed concern about the US’s reliance on foreign sources for essential medicines like antibiotics.
One example is the production of amoxicillin, a common antibiotic, which is predominantly located in China, India, and Europe, highlighting the vulnerability of US drug supply chains.
Has drugs been previously affected by tariffs?
While drugs are typically exempt from tariffs under global trade agreements, recent tariffs imposed by Trump on Chinese imports have impacted drug manufacturers importing active ingredients from China to the US.
The additional costs of tariffs could potentially lead to drug shortages, particularly for generic drugs with slim profit margins, prompting manufacturers to consider exiting the market.
Will tariffs lead to drug shortages?
Tariffs on active ingredients from China may exacerbate existing drug shortages, especially for generic injectables that are more challenging and less profitable to produce compared to new drugs.
Concerns have been raised about the impact of tariffs on drug supply chains, particularly for essential medications like lidocaine, where most active ingredients are sourced from India.
Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg approached President Trump and his aides to resolve the federal antitrust laws against his company, which will be on trial on April 14th.
Zuckerberg has been on several trips to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to discuss the issue along with other issues, said two people who are not authorized to reveal private conversations. Most recently he visited the White House on Wednesday morning.
The Federal Trade Commission sued Meta during Trump’s first term in 2020, blaming the competition for stifling competition by buying young startups like Instagram and WhatsApp, preventing them from suffocating. Mehta was able to settle the lawsuit with a settlement. It is unclear whether Zuckerberg’s efforts have led the Trump administration to consider a solution.
Andy Stone, a spokesman for Meta, also owned by Facebook, said “we meet regularly with policymakers to discuss issues that affect competitiveness, national security and economic growth.”
The White House immediately had no comment, and the FTC declined to comment. That’s what the details of the meeting were It has been reported Previously by the Wall Street Journal.
In its lawsuit, the FTC alleged that Meta violated antitrust laws by buying up its younger rival and stealing consumers from alternative social media platforms. The FTC argued that Meta bought the 2012 photo sharing site Instagram for $1 billion and that the 2014 deal for messaging app WhatsApp should not be approved for $19 billion.
The company “sought to buy or bury an innovator threatening to beat Facebook in a new mobile environment,” the FTC said in a complaint.
Meta refuses to kill the competition between Instagram and WhatsApp and says it is investing heavily in developing app innovation. Meta also says he continues to face tough competition from rivals such as Tiktok, YouTube, Snap and Imessage.
The acquisition of Instagram and WhatsApp has proven to be foresightful. Instagram has become a central part of Meta’s business, bringing billions of revenues per year. WhatsApp has quadrupled in size to 2 billion users and has begun to generate significant revenue for META.
The federal judge neglected the antitrust case in 2021, but quickly revived after the FTC added more evidence and analysis to support its claims.
Now the exam will start within two weeks. The trial could feature testimonies from well-known meta executives, including Zuckerberg. Sheryl Sandberg, former Chief Operating Officer. Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.
Meta executives have worked closely with outside lawyers when called to testify, and have been fiercely preparing for trial for several months, the two people said.
Zuckerberg’s White House visit is part of an effort to improve Meta and the government, particularly with Trump, which has clashed in the past. In December, Meta announced that it had donated $1 million to Trump’s first fund. And Zuckerberg promoted longtime Republican meta-executive Joel Kaplan, who became the head of the company’s global public policy and deepened his ties with the Trump administration.
Donald Trump is getting ready to review a final proposal that will determine the fate of TikTok before the app either gets acquired by non-Chinese buyers or faces a ban in the US.
US Vice President J.D. Vance, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and National Intelligence Director Tarsi Gabbard will convene in the oval office on Wednesday to discuss the matter, as reported by Reuters.
In the closely watched sale of TikTok, the White House is acting as an investment bank with Vance leading an auction.
Private equity firm Blackstone is in talks regarding the involvement of current non-Chinese shareholders of Baitedan, spearheaded by Susquehanna International Group and Atlantic General.
Trump stated that a deal with ByteDance to sell the video-sharing app used by 170 million Americans will be finalized before the deadline on Saturday.
Trump is gearing up to announce global tariffs on what he’s calling “liberation day” on Wednesday. He expressed willingness to reduce China’s tariffs to seal the TikTok deal last week.
Trump had set a deadline for TikTok to secure non-Chinese buyers by January or face a US ban on national security grounds, as per the law enacted in 2024.
US venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz is reportedly discussing an investment in TikTok as part of an effort led by Trump to gain control of the app, according to the Financial Times.
Mark Andreessen, a Silicon Valley luminary and co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, is in talks to bring in new external investments to acquire TikTok’s Chinese investors alongside Oracle and other American investors in a bid to separate it from its parent company, as per the FT report.
Blackstone is said to value TikTok’s US business as a small minority investment.
Discussions about TikTok’s future involve plans to raise stakes and acquire clauses to outbid the major Chinese investors to secure the US business for short video apps, as reported by Reuters.
Last month, Trump mentioned that his administration is in talks with four different groups regarding potential deals with TikTok in the future.
TikTok and Andreessen Horowitz have yet to respond to Reuters’ request for comment.
President Trump is set to meet with top White House officials on Wednesday to discuss proposals aimed at securing the future of Tiktok in the United States, according to two sources familiar with the plan.
Trump will be considering suggesting a new ownership structure for the popular video app, which is owned by the Chinese internet giant ByteDance. Lawmakers and other US officials have raised concerns about the app’s ties to China, citing national security issues. A federal law passed last year requires Tiktok to change its ownership or face a ban in the US. The most recent deadline for this ban is Saturday.
The meeting will be attended by Vice President JD Vance, who was appointed by Trump in early February to find a solution to save popular apps, along with two other individuals who requested anonymity. They mentioned that the new ownership structure could involve private equity firm Blackstone and tech company Oracle.
This meeting is just the latest development in Tiktok’s ongoing national saga, as the app has gained immense popularity in the US despite facing intense scrutiny in Washington. Trump has expressed his desire to save the app and previously extended the deadline for a potential transaction in January. He has hinted that he may do so again if a suitable plan is not reached by the beginning of this month.
Tiktok has not responded immediately to a request for comment.
It remains to be seen whether the potential deal being discussed will adhere to the law. The law stipulates that less than 20% of Tiktok or its parent company can be owned by individuals or entities from countries considered “foreign enemies,” including China.
Furthermore, the law prohibits new entities from collaborating with ByteDance to operate video recommendation technologies or establish data sharing agreements.
Last week, Trump suggested that he could potentially ease tariffs on China in exchange for support for the deal.
Tiktok has stated that it is not up for sale, as the Chinese government is blocking any potential deal.
Approximately 1,900 leading researchers have denounced the Trump administration Open Letter On Monday, it conducted a “wholesale assault on National Science” that could backtrack research for decades, threatening the health and safety of Americans.
All signatories of the letter were warned by the damages caused by layoffs in health and science institutions, all elected members of the National Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine, and by the cuts and delays in funding that have historically supported research within government and across American universities.
“For over 80 years, wise investments by the US government have built up national research companies and are a global hope,” the letter states. “Amazingly, the Trump administration is destabilizing the company by stripping funds for research, firing thousands of scientists, removing public access to scientific data, and pressures researchers to change or abandon their work on ideological basis.”
The letter stated that many universities and research institutes have so far “became antagonistic to the administration and remained silent in order to put their funds at risk.” However, he said, “The country’s scientific enterprises are undoubtedly undoubtedly.”
The signatories urged Americans to appeal to Congress to protect scientific funds.
With Elon Musk’s efforts to cut spending on institutions he considers as ideological enemies and President Trump’s crackdown, the administration has sought to dismantle some of the federal government’s scientific fundraising equipment.
Funding from the National Institutes of Health, which supports jobs by more than 300,000 scientists across the country, has down billions of dollars from typical levels in the early months of the Trump administration.
The White House has also moved to cancel research in certain areas, including transgender health and climate science.
The Trump administration announced last week that it had fired 10,000 Health and Human Services Department employees as part of a broader restructuring that reflects the priorities of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The department hired unreliable vaccine skeptics to study the links that have been exposed by scientists for a long time between vaccines and autism. On Friday, the country’s top vaccine regulator resigned, citing Kennedy’s “misinformation and lies.”
Over the past few weeks, members of the National Academy of Medicine, a nonprofit that provides independent health policy advice, have begun discussing concerns with members of the National Academy of Science and Engineering.
Dr. Stephen Wolf, the organizer of the letter studying health policy at the Federal University of Virginia, said the conversations produced open letters.
The letter was drafted by a group of 13 scientists representing fields such as medicine, climate science, sociology and economics.
“We know what this does to the US life expectancy, mortality rates and the mental health crisis we have,” Dr. Wolf said. “These changes in research companies are going to lead to harm to everyday Americans.”
Dr. Wolf cited the planned reorganization of the Agency for Medical Research and Quality, a small institution responsible for protecting patient safety and ensuring Americans’ access to free preventive services like mammograms.
“The person responsible for protecting the quality of healthcare in the United States has just been demolished,” Dr. Wolf said.
The letter outlines the results of funding cuts, including a pause in research studies, faculty layoffs, and reduced enrollment of graduate students.
It also condemns the management of “censorship involvement” among other things by “blocking research on topics that appear undesirable, such as climate change, or topics that have unfavorable outcomes on topics from vaccine safety to economic trends.”
Two of President Trump’s sons made an announcement on Monday that they were investing in a new Bitcoin mining venture, further expanding the family’s business interests in the crypto industry.
Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. revealed their partnership with Bitcoin mining company HUT 8 to establish a new company called American Bitcoin. Bitcoin mining is a lucrative sector within the crypto industry, involving large companies that operate energy-intensive machines to process Bitcoin transactions.
“From the beginning, we have expressed our belief in Bitcoin both personally and through our businesses,” stated Donald Trump Jr. “But merely purchasing Bitcoin is only part of the equation; mining it with favorable economics opens up even greater opportunities.”
HUT 8 will oversee 80% of the new venture, with the remaining 20% held by a business entity named American Data Centers Inc., which includes investments from the two Trump sons. The announcement on Monday by HUT 8 named Eric Trump as the co-founder of the mining venture, where he will serve as the chief strategy officer.
This mining project marks the third major crypto venture launched by the Trump family in the past year. During the presidential campaign, Donald Trump and his sons introduced World Liberty Financial, a cryptocurrency company offering various digital currencies, including the recently announced “stubcoin.”
Subsequently, just before Trump’s inauguration, he and Melania Trump launched Memocoin, a cryptocurrency inspired by online jokes and mascots.
These business endeavors have raised concerns among government ethics experts due to potential conflicts of interest. Since taking office, Trump has relaxed regulations in the crypto industry and proposed the establishment of government reserves for Bitcoin and other digital currencies.
Four years ago, Trump was critical of Bitcoin and dismissed it as a “scam.” Now, he frequently touts plans to make the United States the “crypto capital of the world.”
Bitcoin mining has drawn significant criticism within the crypto industry. While Bitcoin initially attracted amateur investors, the process now requires substantial computing power, leading to the operation of large data centers by companies like Hut 8 to facilitate Bitcoin transactions.
The Trump family’s mining venture traces back to February when investment firm Dominali Holdings announced the creation of American Data Centers Inc. At that time, Eric Trump, a member of Dominari’s advisory board, stated that the venture aimed to develop computing infrastructure for the artificial intelligence industry.
However, the immediate focus has shifted to Bitcoin mining. The Trump family’s venture will concentrate on operating Bitcoin mining machines and amassing a significant cryptocurrency reserve, as disclosed in the announcement. In a recent post on the X platform, Eric Trump mentioned plans to present a “vision and strategy” for American Bitcoin in a live stream.
President Trump announced tariffs on automobiles and auto parts on Wednesday, impacting U.S. and overseas automakers.
Each company has different vulnerabilities based on their circumstances.
Tesla
Tesla, led by Elon Musk, sells cars from its U.S. plants, potentially making it less exposed to tariffs.
However, Tesla sources parts internationally, with about a quarter of the car’s value coming from overseas.
Tesla’s global sales are declining, partially due to Musk’s political activities, making it a target for retaliation against Trump’s tariffs in some countries.
General Motors
GM, America’s largest automaker, imports many popular vehicles, potentially making it vulnerable to tariffs.
Despite strong profits, GM relies on overseas assembly for around 40% of its U.S. sales, which could be impacted by tariffs.
Ford Motor
Ford is less reliant on imports, with most vehicles sold in the U.S. being domestically produced.
However, Ford still depends on foreign factories for key components like engines.
Stellantis, formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler and Peugeot, is facing sales challenges and CEO transitions, putting it at risk.
Toyota
Toyota, like other Japanese automakers, sells a significant number of cars in the U.S. but manufactures many vehicles overseas.
Despite the dependence on foreign production, Toyota is considered one of the strongest global automakers.
Volkswagen
Volkswagen, with limited U.S. factories, imports many vehicles, potentially impacting its operations.
Volkswagen has faced financial struggles, especially with declining sales in China and the rise of domestic electric vehicles.
Hyundai and Kia
Both Korean companies have seen growth in U.S. sales and are investing in local production to avoid tariffs on certain models.
Hyundai and Kia continue to import cars into the U.S., facing potential tariffs despite their investments in local manufacturing.
Donald Trump has expressed his willingness to reduce tariffs on Chinese trade in exchange for the sale of Tiktok, a social media app used by 170 million Americans, by its Chinese parent company.
He acknowledged China’s involvement in any agreement, stating, “China will have to play a role in it, perhaps giving approval, I believe they will.” Trump mentioned the possibility of offering China a concession to facilitate the deal.
Trump’s remarks indicate that the sale of Tiktok is a priority for his administration and that tariffs are being used as a negotiation tool with Beijing.
Tiktok did not provide an immediate response to the situation.
Bytedance, the parent company of Tiktok, faces an April 5 deadline to find non-Chinese buyers for the app or risk a US ban on national security grounds that was established in January under the 2024 law.
Washington’s concerns about Chinese ownership of Tiktok have led to the current situation, with fears that Beijing could exploit the app for malicious purposes and gather data on Americans.
Recently, Trump imposed an additional 20% tariff on all imports from China, demonstrating his administration’s firm stance on trade negotiations.
Securing a deal without Chinese control has been a key focus in finalizing the Tiktok transaction, with tariffs used as leverage in negotiations with Beijing.
In his earlier statements, Trump had warned China that failure to approve US deals with Tiktok could result in further tariffs being imposed.
Vice President JD Vance anticipates that the terms of the agreement regarding Tiktok ownership will be settled by April 5th.
Reports indicate that a White House-led meeting between investors is working towards securing US business interests for video apps, involving major Chinese stakeholders.
The fate of Tiktok, a widely-used app in the US, has been uncertain since the bipartisan decision to sell it by January 19th.
After initial turbulence in January, the app was temporarily banned but resumed operations shortly after Trump’s term began. He subsequently extended the deadline for the sale until April 5th and hinted at the possibility of further extensions.
The intense involvement of the White House in these trade discussions is unprecedented, resembling the role of an investment bank.
Critics argue that the ban on Tiktok infringes on Americans’ freedom of speech by restricting access to foreign media, potentially violating the First Amendment of the US Constitution.
Sales of a new Tesla car in Europe plummeted last month since Elon Musk’s involvement in Trump’s administration, indicating potential buyer backlash towards his controversial behavior.
The electric car manufacturer sold just under 16,000 vehicles in Europe last month, a 44% decrease across 25 countries including the EU, the UK, Norway, and Switzerland.
Tesla’s market share dropped to 9.6%, its lowest in five years. January also saw a 45% decline in sales compared to 2024.
Although the UK reported a 21% increase in new Tesla vehicle registrations in February, Tesla’s overall sales in Europe are struggling due to Musk’s political involvement and the Model Y overhaul.
Analysts are monitoring Musk’s impact on Tesla amidst concerns of consumer backlash and competition within the EV market. Brands like Tesla, with limited model lineups, are vulnerable during model transitions.
Other automakers like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mini have seen sales growth in Europe, outpacing Tesla in February.
BYD, a Chinese-owned company, has reported significant sales increases, overshadowing Tesla in revenue and sales figures.
BYD has emerged as a strong competitor to Tesla, exceeding them in revenue and sales volume, especially with their line of hybrid cars.
Polestar, owned by Geely, Volvo’s parent company, has also shown growth in vehicle sales in the European market.
BYD’s market value has surged, positioning them as a key player in the electric vehicle industry alongside Tesla and other major automakers.
Despite these challenges, Tesla’s shares rose 6% on Monday, showing resilience in the market amid increasing competition and regulatory changes.
Overall car sales in European markets saw a slight drop, while BEV registrations rose significantly, indicating a shift towards electric vehicles in the region.
President Trump has selected Susan Monares, the acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to permanently lead the agency.
Replacing his initial choice, Dr. Dave Weldon, the president nominated infectious disease researcher Dr. Monares for the position, making her the first non-physician to lead the agency in over 50 years if confirmed by the Senate.
In an article for The Truth Society, President Trump explained that the CDC’s loss of trust was due to political bias and mismanagement, and expressed confidence that Dr. Monares, along with health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., would address the current disease outbreak and restore agency accountability.
Trump praised Dr. Monares as an exceptional mother and dedicated civil servant, underscoring her understanding of the importance of safeguarding children, communities, and the future.
Dr. Monares, who assumed the role of acting director shortly after Trump’s inauguration in January, previously served as the deputy director of a new federal biomedical research institute established during the Biden administration.
Initially expected to hold the position until Dr. Weldon’s confirmation, Dr. Monares now stands as Trump’s nominee after the withdrawal of Dr. Weldon, who reportedly failed to impress Senate Republicans with his plans.
Dr. Monares’ expertise in biosecurity, including her endorsement of the Covid vaccine, may signal a shift in attitudes toward anti-vaccine sentiments, differentiating her from Dr. Weldon, who raised concerns within the medical community.
Dr. George Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, commended Dr. Monares as a respected infectious disease expert with solid research credentials and a keen understanding of the role of public health in government.
While praised for her expertise, Dr. Monares faces criticism for her absence at the CDC’s headquarters in Atlanta, with concerns raised by employees regarding communication and agency operations.
Allegedly, the comment section on the agency’s internal website was removed after staff expressed a desire for more engagement from Dr. Monares, who reportedly follows presidential directives with minimal input from agency directors.
Reportedly serving as a conduit for directives from the White House and the Department of Health and Human Services, Dr. Monares has been involved in agency cost-cutting efforts and compliance with Trump administration orders.
During directives to remove specific content from CDC websites under the Trump administration, Dr. Monares allegedly complied without resistance or efforts to preserve valuable data.
The Food and Drug Administration said Thursday Requirements are delayed by 30 months Its food companies and grocery stores quickly track and pull contaminated food through their supply chains and pull them off the shelf.
The rule, which aimed to “limit food-borne illness and death,” required businesses and individuals to maintain a better record to identify where food was cultivated, packed, processed and produced. It is expected to come into effect in January 2026 as part of the groundbreaking food safety law passed in 2011, and progressed during President Trump’s first term.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has shown interest in food chemical safety, moving to ban food dyes and making public debuts that people can move to ban food dyes. Track toxins in food. However, other actions in the Trump administration’s first months have undermined efforts to tackle the bacteria and other contaminants of diseased food. The administration cut its way through the company closed down jobs for major food safety commissions, frozen scientists’ credit card spending, and routine testing was conducted to detect food pathogens.
In recent years, there have been several well-known outbreaks, including cases related to last year’s fatal listeria of wild boar headmeat and E. coli in the onion of MacDonald’s quarter pounders.
The postponement issued an alarm among several advocacy groups on Thursday.
“The decision is extremely disappointing and consumers are at risk of getting sick with unsafe foods as small segments of the industry are seeking delays despite their 15 years of preparation,” said Brian Ronholm, Food Policy Director for the Advocacy Group’s Consumer Report.
Many retailers have already taken steps to adhere to the rules. Still, food industry trade groups lobbyed to delay the implementation of the December regulations. To the Los Angeles Times.
In a letter to President Trump in December, food manufacturers and other corporate trade groups cited many regulations that they said were “strangled our economy.” They asked Food traceability rules stored and delayed.
“This is a huge step towards food safety,” said Sarah Sosher, director of regulatory affairs at the advocacy group, Science Center for the Public Interest. “The surprising thing about that is that this was a bipartisan rule.”
Sosher said there is widespread support for the measure to protect consumers and businesses.
In late February, as the Trump administration stepped up its quest to transform the federal government, the psychiatrist treating veterans was turned to her new workstation, which was incredible.
She had to perform virtual psychotherapy with patients from any of the 13 cubicles of large open office spaces used for call centres under the Return Office Policy from the New Office. Other staff could overhear the session, appear on patient screens, or be handed over to the toilet or break room.
The psychiatrist was unsure. Her patient suffered from disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It took months to get their trust by dealing with them from her home office. She said the new arrangement violated a central ethical doctrine of mental health care: guarantees of privacy.
When doctors asked how they would expect to protect the privacy of their patients, the supervisor suggested buying a privacy screen and a white noise machine. “I’m ready to leave once it comes,” she wrote to her manager in a text message shared with the New York Times. “I got it,” replied the manager. “Many of us are ready to leave.”
These scenes have been unfolding at veteran affairs facilities nationwide in recent weeks as treatment and other mental health services have been disrupted amid the dramatic changes ordered by President Trump and driven by Elon Musk’s government efficiency.
Among the most consequential orders is the requirement that thousands of mental health providers, including many who have been hired for completely remote positions, currently work full-time from the federal government.space. This is the reversal of the VA’s harsh policy that pioneered virtual medicine practices as a way to reach isolated veterans 20 years ago, long before the pandemic made telehealth a favorable treatment for many Americans.
As the first wave of providers report to offices simply lacking room for them, many have found no way to ensure patient privacy, healthcare workers said. Some have filed complaints and warn that the arrangement violates ethical regulations and the Health Privacy Act. At the same time, layoffs of at least 1,900 probation employees are diluting the already stressful services that support homeless or suicides.
…
said Matthew Hunnikat, 62, a social worker who retired in late February nearly 15 years later at Jesse Brown VA Medical Center in Chicago.
When staff were ordered to close the diversity initiative, Honeycutt decided to speed up his retirement. He said care at the VA was improved during that time with community outreach, shorter waiting times and same-day mental health appointments.
“It’s extreme to just destroy this kind of thing,” he said.
Alain Delacheriere and Kirsten Neus Contributed research.
Tesla and Elon Musk are currently facing a “brand tornado crisis moment,” and the CEO of the electric car company is being urged to step down by Donald Trump.
A warning was issued stating that Tesla would be recalling 46,000 cybertrucks in the US on Thursday to address issues with external panels coming loose while driving.
This development comes as protesters announced plans for a major demonstration against EV manufacturers, including Tesla.
Tesla’s stock has seen a significant decline over the past month due to various concerns, including the influence of Musk’s ties to the Trump administration and his involvement in the DOGE (Government Efficiency Sector).
Financial analyst Dan Ives described Doge’s impact on Musk as damaging to his personal reputation and business.
Ives warned investors of a potential crisis facing Tesla and Musk, citing protests at Tesla showrooms and destruction of vehicles.
He emphasized the need for Musk to step back from his role in Doge and formally announce his resignation as Tesla’s CEO to prevent further damage to the company’s reputation.
Additionally, Ives called for a clear roadmap for new vehicle releases and the deployment of self-driving vehicles in June to reassure investors.
Protest groups like Tesla Takedown have organized “Action Day” protests against Tesla and Musk worldwide, condemning Musk’s alleged involvement in illegal activities.
In response, Musk denounced protesters and defended his actions against what he described as unjust attacks on Tesla.
The Tesla recall issued on Thursday addresses issues with the Can Rail panels detaching from vehicles, posing safety risks. Tesla will replace the affected parts for free.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, detached panels can create road hazards and increase the likelihood of accidents.
Tesla has been requested to provide a comment on the issue.
Johns Hopkins University has announced that President Donald Trump’s administration will be cutting over 2,000 jobs due to the withdrawal of federal funding for numerous international aid projects. These projects include programs focused on preventing the spread of HIV in India and conducting clinical trials for diarrhea disease in Bangladesh.
The university, known for its significant scientific research contributions, stated that 1,975 jobs in the United States and 247 jobs internationally will be eliminated as a result of the cuts to the US’s international development institutes. Additionally, 78 employees in the US and 29 internationally based employees will be affected.
The institution expressed that this decision will have a major impact on important work being done both in Baltimore and abroad, totaling over $800 million in USAID funds being discontinued.
Researchers leading the affected programs warned that these cuts could lead to an increase in dangerous outbreaks. Furthermore, this change will also impact the economy of Baltimore since Johns Hopkins is the largest private employer in Maryland.
Similar employment freezes are being implemented at other universities across the country in response to budget cuts from the Trump administration. Notable institutions like Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Notre Dame have halted faculty hiring.
Additionally, recent actions by the Trump administration include canceling a $400 million grant to Columbia University and revoking $30 million in funding from the University of Maine.
As a result, more than 50 universities are facing scrutiny as the administration aims to terminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
Despite criticism, the White House has defended the decision to streamline federal agencies, stating that it will free up more resources for scientific research.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins are concerned about the impact of the cuts to USAID programs on the communities they serve, especially regarding HIV prevention efforts in India. Dr. Sunil Solomon, involved in the HIV detection and prevention research program ‘Accelerate,’ highlighted the potential negative consequences of program closures.
Dr. Judd Walson, chair of Johns Hopkins’s Department of International Health, expressed concern over the closure of programs such as a Tuberculosis Research Program and clinical trials in Bangladesh focused on reducing cholera and other diarrheal diseases.
The decision to end these programs has raised alarms about the potential effects on public health security worldwide, according to Walson.
In Baltimore, the economic implications of these cuts are also significant, with Johns Hopkins contributing billions to the Maryland economy and supporting tens of thousands of jobs in the state.
Further threats to Johns Hopkins loom as the Trump administration attempts to limit National Institutes of Health payments to universities for research grants. Legal challenges are ongoing, with the university potentially facing significant financial impact.
Johns Hopkins received over $1 billion in grant funding from the NIH in 2024, and the proposed cuts to indirect fee payments could have substantial financial consequences for the institution.
Donald Trump announced that he was purchasing a “brand new Tesla” and placed blame on the “radical left-handed man” who he claimed was orchestrating an “illegal” boycott. This announcement followed a significant drop in Tesla’s stock price, the worst in nearly five years.
During a press conference, President Trump also declared his intention to classify the violence against Tesla showrooms as domestic terrorism, responding to a reporter’s suggestion that such actions should be labeled as such.
He mentioned that he had spoken with Elon Musk and his son on his White House driveway, with a selection of Tesla cars parked for his choosing. Trump ultimately opted for a red Model S, praising Musk’s contributions to the country.
Trump went on to accuse the “radical left madman” of attempting to illegally boycott Tesla and harm the American automaker, posting his remarks on True Social and affirming his commitment to stopping the damaging boycott efforts.
Despite claims of the boycott being illegal, the Supreme Court ruling from 1972 protects the right of Americans to peacefully protest against private companies, challenging Trump’s stance on the matter.
Tesla’s stock has seen significant declines amid protests and threats linked to Trump’s tariff plans. The TeslaTakeown Group, organizing anti-Tesla protests, insists on their right to peaceful demonstrations outside Tesla showrooms.
Reports indicate a sharp drop in Musk’s net worth over the past year, impacting Tesla’s profits. Tesla board members, including Musk’s brother, have sold off millions in stocks, while Tesla car sales have also declined.
The boycott against Tesla emerged in response to Musk’s controversial “Doge” initiative and concerns over lack of transparency in federal spending. Polls suggest mixed public sentiment towards Musk’s influence and actions.
Donald Trump stated on Sunday that negotiations are ongoing with four interested parties looking to acquire TikTok, and the Chinese-owned app is facing an uncertain future in the United States.
According to U.S. law, TikTok was mandated to be sold by its Chinese owner or face a ban in the country. When asked about the possibility of a deal on Sunday, Trump told reporters, “It could happen.”
“We are in discussions with four different groups, and there is significant interest, ultimately the decision lies with me,” he said aboard Air Force 1.
“All four potential buyers are reputable,” he added.
The TikTok ban came into effect on January 19th due to concerns that the Chinese government could potentially exploit the video-sharing platform to spy on Americans and manipulate public opinion.
TikTok was temporarily removed from the U.S. market and disappeared from app stores as the legal deadline approached, leaving millions of users disappointed. Trump paused the ban two and a half months after starting his second term in January, seeking a resolution with Beijing. TikTok later resumed its operations in the U.S. and returned to the Apple and Google App Stores in February.
Among the potential TikTok buyers is an initiative called “The People’s Bid for TikTok,” spearheaded by real estate and sports mogul Frank McCourt’s Project Liberty Initiative. Another interested group includes Microsoft, Oracle, and internet personality MrBeast, also known as Jimmy Donaldson.
TikTok does not appear to be in a rush to sell its platform.
Last week, Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, a cryptocurrency company, traveled through Switzerland contemplating regulatory changes. Tether, once at odds with the establishment, now operates smoothly.
Since Tether is the world’s most traded cryptocurrency, its journey has been unconventional, facing regulatory hurdles and investigations. Despite challenges from regulators, Tether continues to maintain its value pegged to the dollar.
Aldoino, the CEO of Tether, believes that his leadership needs to adapt to global dynamics to sustain the company’s operations.
Tether, holding significant amounts of US government debt, plays a crucial role in the cryptocurrency market, supporting users in unstable economies and providing a secure asset for traders.
Despite past struggles with regulators, Tether now embraces transparency and aims to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to improve its standing in the industry.
Regarding criticisms and regulatory challenges, Aldoino admits past naivety and stresses the importance of communication to build trust and transparency.
The relationship between Tether and Cantor Fitzgerald, a custodian, plays a vital role in the company’s operations, despite challenges posed by regulatory scrutiny.
Lutnick, confirmed as the Secretary of Commerce under the Trump administration, holds a significant impact on Tether’s future collaborations with the US government.
Issues around auditing and compliance continue to surface within the cryptocurrency industry, with Tether facing questions about the stability of its stablecoin and regulatory compliance.
Aldoino warns of potential threats from regulatory challenges in the US and Europe, emphasizing the importance of regulatory clarity moving forward.
In conclusion, Aldoino sees the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency regulation as a critical factor in shaping Tether’s future, pushing for a more supportive regulatory environment starting in September.
The Trump administration has publicly stated that Russia is not considered a cyber threat to US national security or critical infrastructure, marking a significant departure from previous assessments.
Experts warn that this policy shift could leave the US vulnerable to Russian hacking attacks and may signal warming relations between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Recent incidents indicate that the US no longer views Russia as a cybersecurity threat.
Liesyl Franz, the State Department’s deputy director of international cybersecurity, did not mention Russia as a threat in her recent speech before the UN Working Group on Cybersecurity. This contrasts with statements from European Union and UK officials who highlighted the threat posed by Moscow.
US policy changes regarding cybersecurity have been made behind closed doors, with new directives focusing on China and neglecting to mention Russia.
Anonymous sources familiar with the matter have expressed concern that the US is ignoring the Russian cyber threat, which was previously a primary focus for agencies like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
Reports indicate that CISA officials have been reassigned, raising questions about the US government’s approach to protecting against cyber threats from Russia.
The New York Times reported that CISA officials tasked with safeguarding elections from cyberattacks have also been reassigned.
Concerns have been raised about the shift in US policy towards Russia, as many believe that Russia remains a significant cyber threat to US interests.
The CISA and State Department have not provided comments on these developments.
The change in US policy regarding Russia’s cyber threat is seen as a departure from previous assessments and has raised concerns among experts.
For over a quarter-century, Putin’s Russia has been active in cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns, posing a challenge to the international order.
If you have any tips about this story, you can reach out to us at +1 646 886 8761 on Signal
In In late January, Lauren Bedson did something that many people thought could not think. She has cancelled her Amazon Prime membership. The catalyst was Donald Trump's inauguration. More Americans are planning to make similar decisions this Friday.
Bedson moved her after seeing pictures of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos sitting with other tech moguls and billionaires.
Bedson of Camas, Washington, told the Guardian. “I've lived in Seattle for over 10 years. I've been an Amazon fan for a long time and I think they have good products. But I'm so tired of it. I don’t want to give these billionaire oligarchs my money anymore.”
Emotions have been felt by many Americans since Trump entered the White House. Business and business leaders who were once passive or vocally critical of Trump are trying to protect what they feel comfortable with, questioning the value of brands that consumers trusted. A recent Harris poll found that a quarter of American consumers have changed in their political stance and are no longer shopping at their favorite stores.
Many are inspired by the calls to boycotts coming from social media. One boycott It has become a virus over the past few weeks. “Power blackouts” for businesses that have reduced some of their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) goals, including Target, Amazon, and Walmart, are scheduled for February 28th, with protesters planning to halt all spending on these companies.
Lauren Bedson has cancelled his Amazon Prime membership. Photo: Lauren Bedson
But people are also deciding to boycott within their communities at kitchen tables, trying to find a way to resist Trump, and perhaps corporate capitalism.
The Guardian asked readers how their shopping habits have changed over the past few months as the political situation began to change after Trump's victory. Hundreds of people from across the country say they no longer shop at stores like Walmart and have targeted targets who publicly announced the end of their DEI goals. Dozens, like Bedson, had cancelled their long-held Prime accounts. Others shut down their Facebook and Instagram accounts in protest of the meta.
onOn Tuesday, just over a mile from the White House, classicist Mary Beard spoke to the audience about the Roman Emperor. “A dictator is the one who kills you when he is his most generous,” she said. “You go to dinner, you think, wow, this is amazing! But the generosity of a dictator is always fatal.”
On Wednesday, Donald Trump held his first full cabinet meeting. Some may say the mood is warm, cheerful and generous. Housing Secretary Scott Turner offered prayers, including “Thank you, President Trump.”
Was it just an accident that made the TV cameras assemble the scene as Day’s antithesis? Viewers could see Trump in the middle of the seven men in suits, then another row of seven men in suits sitting behind him. Almost all of them were white. (Yes, there were women and people of color at the meeting, but not many.)
Vice President JD Vance was present, but there was no doubt who appointed the emperor as consul. Trump invited Elon Musk, the tech billionaire who runs the so-called “Doctor of Government Efficiency” (DOGE), to speak in front of his cabinet secretary after all attending claimed to be supportive.
Wearing a black “make America great again” hat, Musk jokingly called it “humble tech support” – people laughed faithfully – and insisted that his unplanned efforts to steal the federal government’s chainsaw could save a trillion dollars and delve into the country from debt. “It’s not about options, it’s important,” he said. “If we don’t do this, America will go bankrupt.”
In theory it’s fine. But Doge, composed primarily of young male software engineers fueled by pizza and Red Bull, was a disaster. They fired people who oversee the nuclear weapons stockpile and quickly tried to rehire them, but found it difficult to contact them because they were unable to access their working email account. This claimed it saved $8 billion on a termination agreement that was actually worth just $8 million. Musk mistakenly stated that the US spent $50 million on Gazan condoms. And this week, Doge appeared this week. Doge quietly deleted the top five items from the suspected savings public book after it turned out they weren’t that kind of thing.
Musk brought similar unholy confusion to Twitter when he bought it – to the cabinet, Doge admitted to making a mistake, but that said it would fix them quickly. “For example, with USAID, one of the things we accidentally cancelled temporarily was Ebola prevention. So we quickly restored Ebola prevention, but there was no interruption.”
I don’t feel safe.
Then came the most dictatorial episode of the conference. The generous and deadly Trump asked his cabinet. If so, we’ll throw him out of here. ”
For crocodiles? Or through a high window, in favor of his fellow Vladimir Putin? There was a nervous laugh and applause from this fawn, flattering, this reunion.
Winning, the President assured reporters: “They have a lot of respect for Elon, he does this, and a bit opposed to some, but I think most of the time everyone is happy – I think they’re excited.”
Games respect the game. A boy who is a fan of the far-right movements across Europe, Musk showed an impressive instinctive sense of totalitarianism.
He states: This is an incredible group of people. I don’t think we’ve ever had such a talented team. I think it’s literally the best cabinet this country has ever had…”
Then came the slips that spoke from the wealthiest man in the world. [sic] We should be very grateful to the people in this room. ”
The cabinet that Musk lavished with such praise include Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host, accused of sexual assault and alcohol abuse, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vaccine conspiracy theorist who once abandoned a bear cub who died in New York’s Central Park. Less than Marvel’s Avengers Star Wars Cantina.
Kennedy was asked by a reporter about the outbreak of measles in Texas, where a child was reportedly killed. His inactive response: “That’s not uncommon. There’s an outbreak of measles every year.”
The entire conference worshiped authoritarianism and was another sorry to normalize bullies. Musk tried to protect government officials from emails they sent to government employees and asked them what they did last week. It’s not a “performance review,” but a “pulse check review” because some people on the government’s salary are dead.
Trump concluded the meeting with the observation that “the country is bloated, fat, disgusting, incompetent.”
Still as John Stewart It’s been attracting attention this week At Comedy Central’s The Daily Show, Doge will not build fighter jets that will soon become obsolete on subsidies given to oil and gas companies, loopholes for hedge funds worth $1.3 billion a year, or $20 subsidies given to defense contractors. “This is the real place for money,” Stewart said.
Even a functioning democracy did not do much about them. Therefore, he wants a country run by aspiring Caesar and his fellow oligarchs.
aA post from Elon Musk on Saturday afternoon requested that federal employees list five things from the previous week related to emails. This request was expected to reach the inboxes of 2.3 million federal employees, sparking discussions among a secret network of government workers and contractors. These individuals began communicating through an encrypted app to coordinate their responses.
Employees on a 10-hour, four-day schedule did not see the email until Tuesday, missing the deadline for responses. Some employees even added a humorous touch, with one worker joking, “Bonus points to those who say they spent government subsidies on hookers and blows.”
After quickly deliberating, the network agreed on a response strategy. They decided to split the oaths sworn by federal employees into five bullet points, which would be sent back via email. The first point was: “I supported and defended the US Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”
Another oath included: “I’ve pledged true faith and loyalty to the same thing.” According to veteran contractor Lynn Stahl, these efforts aimed to expose harmful policies, defend public institutions, and provide citizens with necessary information and support.
Identifying themselves as #Altgov, the network gained visibility with multiple social media accounts, most adopting names or initials of federal agencies. Their goal was to shed light on the chaos caused by the previous administration and combat misinformation.
With around 40 accounts and growing followership, #Altgov engaged in subgroups for information sharing and strategy development using the encrypted messaging app, Wire.
A post from #ALTGOV explaining the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Photo: alt cdc (they/them)/bluesky
The origin of #Altgov dates back to the first Trump administration, with notable accounts like “Alt National Park Service” gaining traction on Twitter. The network evolved to serve the public by coordinating relief efforts and distributing resources during crises.
Transitioning their presence to Bluesky, #Altgov continued their mission to provide value where the government fell short. They expanded their reach by forming new accounts dedicated to specific agencies, like #Altgov FEMA, which focused on disaster response.
Federal employees who joined #Altgov expressed a sense of duty and a desire for transparency in government actions. By uncovering misinformation and providing accurate information, they aimed to empower citizens and hold institutions accountable.
Ministers have postponed the regulation of artificial intelligence in line with the Trump administration, as reported by The Guardian.
Three labor sources revealed that the AI bill, originally planned for release before Christmas, is now expected to be delayed until summer.
The Minister had intended to issue concise invoices shortly after taking office.
The bill aims to address concerns about the potential risks of advanced AI models to humanity and to clarify the use of copyrighted materials by AI companies, differing from individual suggestions.
However, Trump’s election prompted a reconsideration of the bill. Senior labor sources said the bill was being carefully reconsidered, and there are no firm proposals yet on its content. The source added that they had aimed to pass it before Christmas, but it is now delayed until summer.
Another labor source, familiar with the legislation, mentioned that earlier drafts of the bill had been prepared months ago, but they are now being held back due to Trump’s actions, which could negatively impact British businesses. They expressed reluctance to proceed without addressing these concerns.
Trump’s actions have undermined Biden’s plans for AI regulation, including revoking an executive order aimed at ensuring technology safety and reliability. The future of the US AI Safety Institute is uncertain following the resignation of its director. Additionally, US Vice President JD Vance opposed planned European technical regulations at the AI Summit in Paris.
The UK government opted to align with the US by not signing the Paris Declaration endorsed by 66 other countries at the summit. UK Ambassador to Washington Peter Mandelson reportedly proposed making the UK a major US AI investment hub.
During a December committee meeting, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle hinted that the AI bill was in advanced stages. However, Science Minister Patrick Balance stated earlier this month that there is no bill currently in place.
A government spokesperson stated, “This government remains committed to enacting legislation that will ensure the safe realization of the significant benefits of AI for years to come.
“We are actively engaged in refining our proposals for publication soon to ensure an effective approach against this rapidly evolving technology. Consultations will soon commence.”
The Minister faces pressure regarding individualized plans to allow AI companies access to online materials, including creative works for training models without requiring copyright permission.
Artists like Paul McCartney and Elton John have criticized this move, warning that it could undermine traditional copyright laws protecting artists’ livelihoods.
Hello, return to TechScape. This week in Tech, Elon Musk and Donald Trump are using brinkmanship as a negotiation tactic. US immigration and customs enforcement are optimizing search engines during arrests and deportations. Spotify is working on improving its image with more human-centered public relations. Thank you for reading.
Zone Flood: Trump’s Executive Order and Musk’s Doji
Donald Trump has been busy issuing executive orders, from ending birthright citizenship to imposing bans on gender transitions. Elon Musk, known as the world’s wealthiest person and in charge of the “Government’s Ministry of Efficiency,” is targeting federal agencies to reduce waste. Both Trump and Musk are using brinkmanship tactics to achieve their goals in negotiations.
Trump recently threatened tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, only to delay them after agreements were reached. Musk, on the other hand, is reshaping government agencies, with USAID likely being folded into the State Department. Their aggressive tactics aim to overwhelm opposition and media coverage.
Musk has a history of using similar tactics in business dealings, such as with X, where he made bold moves and threats but later backtracked. His approach, while effective at times, has faced challenges and scrutiny.
Silicon Valley companies like Musk move fast and disrupt the status quo, aligning with Trump’s approach. Their next targets could be Medicare and Medicaid, signaling potential upheavals in the healthcare sector.
The Logical End of SEO: Deportation Mirage in Google Search Results
SEO tactics are crucial for ranking on Google search results, but even governmental agencies are using these tactics. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently updated old press releases to appear as recent enforcement actions, highlighting the challenges of SEO manipulation.
Reports of immigrant arrests have sparked controversy, with ICE press releases dominating search results. However, closer inspection reveals that many of these actions took place years ago but are presented as recent events, showcasing the power of SEO in shaping perceptions.
Spotify Balances Human Touch and AI Features
Spotify has faced criticism from artists like Björk for its impact on the music industry. However, the company is emphasizing the role of AI in transforming music discovery while also highlighting the human touch behind its recommendations.
Despite the shift towards AI-generated playlists, Spotify is showcasing the human element through stories like that of Sulinna Ong, who brings a personal touch to finding new hits. While AI plays a significant role, Spotify is keen on maintaining a human connection with its users.
By leveraging AI for improved recommendations, Spotify aims to balance technology with human interaction. While facing criticism from some artists, the company is focused on providing a personalized experience for its users.
WhatsApp recently won a legal battle against NSO Group, an Israeli cyberwareponds manufacturer. Despite this victory, a new threat has emerged from another company, Paragon Solutions, which is also based in Israel, including the United States.
In January, WhatsApp revealed that 90 users, including journalists and civil society members, were targeted by SPYware created by Paragon Solutions last year. This raises concerns about how Paragon’s government clients utilize hacking tools.
Among the targeted individuals were Italian journalist Francesco Cancerato, immigrant support NGO founder Luca Casarini, and Libyan activist Husam El Gomati. University of Toronto researchers, who work closely with WhatsApp, plan to release a technical report on the breach.
Paragon, like NSO Group, provides spyware to government agencies. The spyware, known as Graphite, allows for hacking without the user’s knowledge, granting access to photos and encrypted messages. Paragon claims its use aligns with US policies for national security missions.
Paragon stated a zero-tolerance policy for violations and terminated contracts with Italy after breaching terms. David Kay, a former special rapporteur, described the marketing of such surveillance products as an abuse and a threat to the rule of law.
The issue has relevance in the US, where the Biden administration blacklisted NSO in 2021 due to reports of abuse. A contract between ICE and Paragon was suspended after concerns were raised about spyware use.
Paragon assures compliance with US laws and regulations, following the Biden executive order. The company, now US-owned, has a subsidiary in Virginia. Concerns remain about potential misuse against political opponents.
Experts from Citizen Lab and Amnestytech are vigilant in detecting illegal surveillance in democracies worldwide.
The lawsuit names both the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Health and Human Services as Defendants, stating that the impact of the changes in indirect rates announced on Friday would be “immediate and catastrophic.”
NIH revealed on Friday that it will cap indirect funding for research projects at 15% and significantly decrease the federal government’s funding for research institutions for equipment, maintenance, utilities, support staff, and more. Previously, these rates were negotiated with the agencies. The new policy took effect on Monday for all new and existing NIH grants.
The lawsuit, filed on Monday in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts and led by the attorney generals of Illinois and Michigan, alleges that the NIH violated the Administrative Procedure Act and disregarded the will of Congress, which aimed to prevent changes in indirect cost rates since 2018.
All Democratic state Attorneys General are part of this lawsuit.
The lawsuit demands a temporary restraining order and an injunction to prevent the NIH from implementing the new rules.
Scientists have warned that reducing indirect costs will negatively impact research efforts, hinder basic science research, and potentially impede disease research and new discoveries.
In response to the proposed changes, the University of California System stated that this will significantly reduce personnel and services, affecting education, training, patient care, basic research, and clinical trials.
Supporters of the NIH policy change argue that indirect costs are currently excessive and need to be controlled.
According to a Friday post by x, Katie Miller from the newly formed Government Efficiency Bureau, or Doge, stated: “This will reduce Harvard’s exorbitant costs by $150 million annually.”
tA few days before his inauguration as US president, Donald Trump made an extraordinary move. He launched Trump, a so-called meme coin that fans and speculators can buy in the hopes of gaining value. Initially, $Trump surged from a value of $75 to $75 per coin in a day, according to Crypto’s price tracking website CoinMarketCap. Two days later, it fell to about $40. Just like the next First Lady Melania Trump launched her own meme coin, $ Melania. Even the pastor at Trump’s inauguration, Lorenzo Swell, promoted the $Lorenzo edition the same afternoon, sweeping it out into a frenzy of memecoin.
So, what exactly is a meme coin? And why are everyone and their pastors suddenly involved? Memecoin is a type of digital assets based on memes. Usually it becomes a virus online. Best known is Dogecoin, inspired by a popular meme featuring a wave dog talking in the cartoon Sands. However, Dogecoin is a bit different from the many recent memecoin masses, according to Simon Peters, Crypto analyst at trading platform Etoro. DogeCoin, released in 2013, has its own blockchain. This is a decentralized ledger technology that supports cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. The majority of other meme coins are “tokens.” In other words, it runs on an existing blockchain, so it is rarely necessary for technological development methods.
These tokens are very easy to make. There are millions. The only real purpose of most meme coins is speculation. Users create or buy in the hope that their value will rise and they can make more money very quickly.
Sounds advantageous, what is the catch? In reality, the majority of people lose money. Most meme coins are volatile and short-lived. Peters also says they are susceptible to what is called a “pump and dump” scheme or “ragpull.” This allows creators to keep many tokens themselves, hype their projects on social media to attract other buyers, increase value, throw away all tokens, flood the market and crash prices. “Then everyone moves on to another person,” says Carol Alexander, a professor of finance at the University of Sussex. Given that the crypto market is largely unregulated, investors can hardly rely on them when something goes wrong.
The First Lady also launched her own meme coin, $ Melania. Photo: Beata Zawrzel/Shutterstock
There are no regulators or guardrails. All of this hasn’t put off people, and there’s been a boom in memecoin over the past year. Alexander compares it to previous trends around the NFTS. There are several reasons for recent interest. In January 2024, Pump.Fun, a platform that allows anyone to easily create meme coins, was launched (although it was blocked in December, but Warnings from Financial Conduct Authorities). The crypto-friendly Trump election may have encouraged the community as well. But the key drivers of the meme coins are “wanting to try out young men, disillusioned and rich people quickly,” says Alexander.
That would explain why they are based on internet jokes and pale humor… surely. At the time of writing, I will refer to some top meme coins. Shiba inu variety is a specific touch point. Others include Pepe tokens based on cartoon frog memes related to Alt-right, and Gigachad tokens that refer to the “alpha male” meme. Meme subjects also tried to push the viral fame into the profits of the code: In December, Harry Welch is known as “Hawk Tou Girl,” after a viral video referring to oral sex, but $hok Tokens have been released. Losing 95% of its value).
Bitcoin and meme coins Is it essentially the same? Meme Coins has the foundation of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, but early Bitcoin developer Mike Hearn says it has little to do with the original Crypto Vision. He left the Bitcoin community in January 2016. Because he disagreed with the direction it was heading. He wanted to see cryptocurrencies that are used as real alternatives to traditional finances, rather than just speculative assets. The meme coins are a continuation of this trend, he says: “They are basically in the form of gambling, like a more uplifting version of the stock market, but they have little to do with anything concrete. There is none.”
To me it doesn’t sound as crazy as an online betting site… Next, consider the story of Andy Ayrey, a New Zealand-based artist who trains an AI language model and sets up an X account @truth_terminal. Ayrey explains that bots are like teenagers “without a social awareness of when, when, or not.” Truth Terminal especially enjoyed posting about Goatse, an unsafe work meme that became part of early internet lore.
After interacting with X’s Crypto account, AI became interested in Meme Coins, and Ayrey set up a Crypto wallet for that. Then things got weird. Inspired by the bot’s post, strangers – Irey says who doesn’t know – created a yads-themed token with pump.fun and sent it to the true device. Truth Terminal promotes the token on its account, and “all hell was unleashed,” says Ayrey. The market capitalization of the token – the total value of all tokens – shot. According to Coinmarketcap, it reached over $1.2 billion, about a month after its launch.
AI later became involved in another meme coin, Faltcoin, based on a rather relevant meme (again, Early says he doesn’t know who the creator is). Fartcoin has reached a peak market capitalization of over $2.3 billion.
So Was Irey a quids? It’s not that simple. Through the overall experience, Ayrey introduced some of the issues with Meme Coins. He discovered that the value on paper covers a lot of what he can actually get because of the low liquidity. As soon as you sell a token, its value decreases and it will have a negative effect on others who have the token. Ultimately, he signed private contracts with several investors based on not throwing Falzcoin into the market. He admits it is interesting to have to talk to finance and tax authorities about “far liquidation.” He believes this is part of the appeal of Meme Coin fans. “The more people get mad about it, the more people are, the more people find it interesting and the more fatcoin is, the higher the fatcoin,” he says.
Who is making money? According to Alexander, the main people who make money from crypto are institutional investors, trading companies that use strategies that are not permitted in regular stock trading. “All the big professional traders are making billions to come, and ordinary people are losing money,” she says.
And Trump? Alexander thinks his meme coins are slightly different from many coins. It’s a potential alternative to speculation, and users buy it to show support for the President. This is similar to a “fan token” just like something produced by sports teams and athletes. The Trump Token has attracted criticism due to conflicts of interest. Among other concerns, Trump Owns one of the entities that collect transaction fees. Alexander believes that the coin’s motivation is simple. “It just shows that he can do this,” she says. “He can do whatever he likes and he knows that.”
The Trump administration has directed US states to halt the $5 billion electric vehicle charging station program, dealing another blow to the environmental movement since the president’s return to the White House.
In a notice issued on Thursday, the Federal Highways Agency (FHWA) of the Transportation Agency ordered states not to utilize funds allocated under the Biden administration’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program.
Emily Biondi, assistant manager of planning, environment, and real estate at FHWA, wrote in a memo, “The new leadership of the Department of Transportation has chosen to reassess the policies guiding the implementation of the NEVI Formula Program.” Biondi added, “Therefore, the current NEVI Formula Program Guidance dated June 11, 2024, supersedes all previous versions of this guidance.”
Biondi further stated, “As a consequence of the withdrawal of guidance for the NEVI Formula Program, FHWA has ceased immediately the approval of all plans for electric vehicle infrastructure deployment in all states. Therefore, the updated final NEVI Formula Program is effective immediately. No new obligations will be incurred under the NEVI Formula Program until new guidance is issued and new state plans are submitted and approved.”
Biondi mentioned that existing obligations for the design and construction of charging stations will be reimbursed to prevent disruption in current financial commitments until new guidance is issued.
According to the page on the Energy Department website, the NEVI program funds states to strategically deploy EV chargers, covering up to 80% of qualified project costs.
In a report by Politico on Thursday, FHWA has removed several website pages containing information about the NEVI program.
Andrew Rogers, a former FHWA administrator under the Biden administration, stated to Politico that the memo “appears to disregard federal court rulings and multiple injunctions.”
Currently, 14 states have operational EV stations, as reported by EV Clearing House. As of November last year, there was an 83% increase in open NEVI ports from the previous quarter, with 126 public charging ports at 31 NEVI stations in nine states.
A total of 41 states have released solicitations for EV charging stations, with over 3,560 fast charging ports at more than 890 locations.
During his campaign, Trump opposed EVs, suggesting that EV supporters should “rot in hell” and that Biden’s backing of EVs would lead to a “bloodbath” in the US automotive industry.
One of the executive orders Trump signed shortly after taking office aimed to ensure that half of all new vehicles for sale in the US between 2021 and 2030 would be revoked.
sInse declared the support of Donald Trump in July last year, then spent more than $ 250 million in re-election efforts, and Eron Musk rapidly had a political impact, and is located at the center of the new administration. I am doing it. At present, as the president himself, the mask has begun to use its power, has made a decision that can affect the health of millions of people, and gains access to very sensitive personal data. I am attacking those who oppose him. Musk, the wealthy man in the world and an unrivaled official, has gained surprising levels of the federal government.
On the weekend, workers with the mask “government efficiency” (DOGE) collide with public servants on the demands of free access to the major government agencies of the US government agency in a series of violent series of conflicts. I did. When the dust settled down, several high -ranking officials opposed to the acquisition were pushed out, and Musuk’s allies had controlled.
Masks, which have been supported by Trump, are currently working to close the US International Development Organization (USAID). He boasted on Sunday to “supply USAID to the wood chipper.” He also targeted several other institutions in purs an aggressive attempt to purify and remake the federal government along the border of ideology, avoiding the parliament or justice monitoring.
Most of the Musuk’s actions were carried out, with thousands of people hired by the USAID -like institutions he did without moving forward, transparency, and transparency. Humanitative organizations that depend on US financing The operation has been stopped And the staff fired the staff while the government workers were closed out of their office. He operates DOGE as an unofficial government division without a mission approved by Congress. Hold the position “Special government staff” Side step financial disclosure And the public examination process.
The USAID employee protests outside the headquarters on Monday in Washington. Photo: KEVIN DIETSCH/Getty Images
Salvo was fired by Donald Trump at the start of his trade war, imposing tariffs on China on Tuesday, prompting immediate retaliation from Beijing due to concerns about the global economic impact.
10% tariffs have been implemented currently, prompting China to release an anti-trade survey on Google swiftly. The Ministry of Finance has announced tariffs of 10% on items such as coal, liquefied natural gas, crude oil, agricultural equipment, large distributed vehicles, and pickup trucks from the United States.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce and Customs Bureau took actions on Tuesday to protect national security interests by imposing export controls on important minerals such as tungsten, terrillium, lutenium, molybdenum, and rutenium-related items.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Commerce indicated that US PvH Group and Illumina would be added to the list of unreliable entities, subjecting them to restrictions or penalties without specifying the accusations against the companies.
In response to tightened US exports of high-tech products to China, Beijing is considering adding Intel to a list of companies under investigation for antitrust law violations. Financial Times reported this on Tuesday.
Despite Google services being blocked in China, the company continues to earn revenue from Chinese companies advertising overseas and using Android operating systems.
The Chinese Ministry of Finance stated that the unilateral imposition of tariffs by the United States violates World Trade Organization rules and could harm economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.
After initially threatening economic disputes with Canada and Mexico, President Trump decided to postpone tariffs following discussions with their leaders.
The US has removed exemptions for Chinese exports, imposing tariffs on most goods. Some Chinese retailers, like SHEIN and TEMU, relied on exemptions to sell affordable products in the US.
Trump agreed to impose a 25% tariff on Mexico after speaking with President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau led Trump to delay 25% tariffs on Canada. Trudeau announced a $1.3 billion border security plan in response to the decision.
The White House announced a meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later in the week to address escalating trade tensions.
Economists warn that Trump’s tariff plan could raise prices for millions of Americans.
Trump believes tariffs will strengthen the US financially and lead to beneficial trade agreements with other countries.
The global financial markets reacted cautiously to Trump’s tariff actions, with mixed results.
Various stock indexes fluctuated following the tariff announcements, with currencies like the Canadian dollar experiencing volatility.
The Chinese market was closed for the Lunar New Year holiday and is set to reopen on Wednesday.
Donald Trump has implied that Microsoft is in discussions with Tactoku and he is hoping for a bidding war on apps.
In response to whether Microsoft was considering acquiring an app, the US President stated, “I will say Jesus,” and added, “I have a lot of interest in Tiktok. Tactoku is of great interest.”
Microsoft, Tiktok, and Bytedance did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comments outside of regular business hours following the US President’s remarks on Air Force 1 on Monday.
The reported remarks mark the second attempt to acquire Tiktok. During his first term, Trump had ordered Tactoku to divest its US operations citing national security concerns.
Microsoft emerged as a top bidder in 2020, but the negotiations quickly fell apart, and Trump’s push for the sale ended a few months later.
Tactoku, with approximately 170 million American users, faced an injunction from the Chinese owners to either comply with national security measures or face a ban on January 19. Shortly before this, the app was temporarily taken offline earlier this month.
Upon taking office on January 20, Trump signed a presidential order to delay the enforcement of the injunction by 75 days.
Last week, Trump revealed that he had discussed the purchase of Tactoku with multiple parties and would likely make a decision on the fate of the popular app within 30 days.
The US President had previously stated that he would be open to a sale of the Social Media App to the CEO of Tesla if interested, although Elon Musk has not publicly responded to Trump’s offer.
Recently, on Sunday, AI startup Perplexity AI proposed a merger with Tiktok. The US government informed Reuters on Sunday that it had invested in the future of the new company.
In 2021, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella described Tiktok as “the oddest thing I’ve worked on.”
He mentioned to the US government, “There are specific requirements and then just disappear.”
President Donald Trump issued two executive orders targeting the promotion of electric vehicles and wind power by the Biden administration.
These technologies are crucial in combating climate change, but the orders could hinder their growth.
Advocates for electric vehicles and green energy criticized the decision.
On Monday, President Donald Trump significantly impacted two rapidly growing environmentally friendly technologies in the United States, electric vehicles and wind power, through two executive orders.
These orders were aimed at countering the Biden administration’s efforts to boost these technologies, which have been gaining momentum in the drive to reduce carbon emissions in the U.S. energy sector. President Trump also announced the withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement, where countries commit to reducing carbon emissions to combat global warming.
One of Trump’s presidential orders rescinded several climate-focused directives, including standards on tailpipe emissions to promote electric vehicle adoption. This move was criticized by electric vehicle advocates, who argued that it could harm America’s competitiveness in the global automotive market.
Trump’s other order temporarily halted federal approvals for offshore wind energy projects in federal waters and restricted federal agencies from issuing new permits or loans for wind energy projects, both onshore and offshore. The order falsely claimed that wind power could lead to higher energy costs and harm marine life, such as whales, despite no known links according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The orders faced backlash from advocates of electric vehicles and wind power. Jason Grumet, CEO of the American Clean Power Association, criticized the move, stating that it contradicted Trump’s goal of freeing up energy production in the U.S.
The adoption of electric vehicles and wind power has been increasing in recent years. Electric and hybrid vehicles accounted for 20% of new car sales in the U.S. in 2024, and sales are projected to continue growing. Wind power is also predicted to be a significant source of new energy capacity in the U.S. by 2050.
President Trump has been known to criticize wind power, attributing whale deaths to offshore wind projects and making unsubstantiated claims about health risks associated with wind turbines. Climate groups have warned that Trump’s executive orders could harm global environmental efforts and hinder green job growth.
Despite these challenges, advocates believe that clean technology will continue to progress, regardless of regulatory obstacles. President Trump’s orders could face legal challenges, particularly regarding California’s stricter tailpipe pollution standards, which aim to reduce air pollution and combat climate change.
Donald Trump has initiated what he refers to as “the largest AI infrastructure project in history,” a $500 billion collaboration involving OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank, with the goal of establishing a network of data centers throughout the United States.
The newly formed partnership, named Stargate, will construct the necessary data centers and computing infrastructure to propel the advancement of artificial intelligence. Trump stated that over 100,000 individuals will be deployed “almost immediately” as part of this initiative, emphasizing the objective of creating jobs in America.
This announcement signifies one of Trump’s initial significant business moves since his return to office, as the U.S. seeks new strategies to maintain its AI superiority over China. The announcement was made during an event attended by Mr. Ellison, Softbank’s Masayoshi Son, Open AI’s Sam Altman, and other prominent figures.
President Trump expressed his intention to leverage the state of emergency to promote project development, particularly in the realm of energy infrastructure.
“We need to build this,” declared President Trump. “They require substantial power generation, and we are streamlining the process for them to undertake this production within their own facilities.”
This initiative comes on the heels of President Trump reversing the policies of his predecessor, President Joe Biden. A 100-page executive order signals a significant shift in U.S. AI policy regarding safety standards and content watermarking.
While the investment is substantial, it aligns with broader market projections – financial firm Blackstone has already predicted $1 trillion in U.S. data center investments over a five-year period.
President Trump portrayed the announcement as a vote of confidence in his administration, noting that its timing coincided with his return to power. He stated, “This monumental endeavor serves as a strong statement of belief in America’s potential under new leadership.”
The establishment of Stargate follows a prior announcement by President Trump regarding a $20 billion AI data center investment by UAE-based DAMAC Properties. While locations for the new data centers in the U.S. are under consideration, the project will commence with an initial site in Texas.
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order suspending sales of Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok, as mandated by a law passed in the United States last year.
Trump’s order was part of a series of actions he took on his first day back in the White House. The order instructed President Trump’s attorney general to hold off on enforcing a law that would require the sale or closure of major social media apps in the U.S. for 75 days.
The moratorium allows for a careful consideration of the next steps in a way that protects national security and avoids an abrupt shutdown of platforms used by millions of Americans.
Additionally, the order directs the Department of Justice to inform other tech giants like Apple, Google, and Oracle, who have ties to TikTok, that they will not be penalized for any actions during this period.
When asked about the purpose of the TikTok executive order, President Trump stated that it gives the government the option to sell or shut down the platform, but a decision on the course of action has not been made yet.
Critics of the video-sharing platform argue that it poses a security threat because it is owned by ByteDance, a company with ties to the Chinese government. They fear that the personal information of U.S. users could be used for malicious purposes.
During his presidency, Trump had previously criticized TikTok for these reasons and attempted to ban it. However, he has since shifted his stance due to various factors, including his popularity on the platform and the views of TikTok investor Jeff Yass.
Despite Trump’s change in position, Congressional Republicans have remained firm, and under bipartisan legislation signed by President Biden, TikTok was required to sell its assets to a U.S.-based company by January 19, with a possible 90-day extension for the sale process.”
Plans to sell TikTok have not been confirmed, but there is interest from figures like Frank McCourt and Kevin O’Leary. The U.S. Supreme Court has been involved in the matter, and despite objections from free speech advocates, the law remains in effect.
Trump’s court filing emphasizes his unique ability to negotiate a solution that addresses national security concerns while preserving the platform, but experts question the effectiveness of his approach.
Alan Rosenstein, a former National Security Adviser, dismissed the executive order as merely a symbolic gesture and stated that TikTok would likely remain banned despite Trump’s intentions.
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the Paris climate change agreement as one of his first acts in office.
The Paris Agreement, signed in 2016, requires participating countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions annually to prevent global temperatures from rising more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The United States, along with other countries, has also pledged billions of dollars to assist developing nations with climate adaptation and mitigation.
The White House stated, “In recent years, the United States has entered into international agreements that do not align with our values or economic and environmental goals. These agreements direct American taxpayer dollars to countries that do not need or deserve financial assistance, to the detriment of the American people.”
The executive order mandates U.S. Ambassador to the UN to provide written notification of withdrawal, with immediate effect.
The United States will join Libya, Yemen, and Iran as countries not part of the Paris Agreement, impacting global climate action efforts.
Climate change groups have strongly criticized the decision, calling it a setback to efforts to combat climate change and protect the environment.
The world continues to see unprecedented levels of carbon dioxide emissions, leading to rising global temperatures and more extreme weather events.
As the largest historical emitter, the United States has a significant role to play in leading global efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change.
Despite the withdrawal, experts emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts to meet the goals set by the Paris Agreement and address the challenges posed by climate change.
President Trump’s administration has reversed several climate initiatives put in place by the previous administration, aiming to prioritize energy production and economic growth over environmental concerns.
President Trump has also declared a national energy emergency, urging federal agencies to roll back “harmful” climate policies that impact food and fuel costs.
TikTok stated on Sunday that it would resume service in the United States following President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Earlier that day, the video app received a reprieve from its ban in the country.
President Trump has allowed Truth Social additional time to find a buyer, giving the Chinese-owned video app a lifeline before facing a total shutdown. He proposed that a US company acquire 50% of the stake, signaling his intention to sign an executive order in support of this proposal.
“By doing this, we will save TikTok, ensure it remains in good hands, and keep it afloat,” Trump declared. “Without approval from the US, TikTok would not exist. With our approval, its value could reach hundreds of billions, even trillions of dollars.”
Late Saturday, TikTok suspended its services for approximately 170 million users in the US.
In April, Congress passed a law requiring TikTok, now owned by ByteDance, to sell to a non-Chinese entity or face expulsion from the US. The Supreme Court upheld this provision, leading to the app’s decision to shut down temporarily. The law prohibits the distribution, maintenance, or updates of TikTok in the US if a sale is not secured.
A message popped up for US users of the app from Saturday night to Sunday afternoon, stating, “A US law has been enacted banning TikTok, hence its current unavailability.” Trump advocated for a ban during his previous presidential campaign but found it challenging to enforce it in the 2024 election. He made a last-minute attempt to intervene on TikTok’s behalf upon realizing its substantial user base.
TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, expressed gratitude to President Trump for his efforts to maintain the app’s availability in the US. He anticipated attending Trump’s inauguration personally.
In response to Trump’s Sunday message, the company affirmed in a statement its “restoration of services” and assured service providers that there would be no repercussions for enabling TikTok. They thanked President Trump for this action, emphasizing their positive impact on millions of Americans and small businesses, supporting the First Amendment, and opposing arbitrary censorship. They expressed eagerness to work with Trump towards a long-term solution for TikTok in the US.
Several TikTok users reported that the app was fully functional again soon after the announcement.
Concerns about TikTok revolve around the potential access of personal data of US users by the Chinese government and manipulation of the app’s algorithms to control user content. Chu refuted any involvement of the Chinese government in the app, clarifying that ByteDance is not acting as an agent of China or any other country as of 2023.
Reports surfaced last week suggesting that Trump was considering extending the ban through an executive order. The bill allowing the ban on TikTok includes a provision that allows the president to extend the sale deadline by 90 days if sufficient progress is demonstrated, but evidence of substantial progress is required for such an extension to be granted.
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson announced his support for banning TikTok in a NBC press event on Sunday. He interpreted Trump’s call to “save TikTok” as a directive to facilitate a legitimate sale and change of ownership for the app.
Lawmakers are primarily concerned about the Chinese Communist Party rather than the app itself, emphasizing the need for ByteDance to complete the sale of TikTok within 270 days to avert potential national security risks.
Some Republican officials oppose the idea of extending the ban’s timeframe, noting that the law should be enforced as written. Senators Tom Cotton and Pete Ricketts stated that China must sever all ties with TikTok and agree to a qualified sale for the app to be considered safe for US users.
Several Democratic lawmakers urged President Biden to allow TikTok a grace period before any shutdown, emphasizing the app’s importance to content creators, privacy concerns, and national security.
Investor Kevin O’Leary reportedly offered TikTok’s owners a $20 billion buyout, while other reports suggest a potential merger with TikTok US or a sale to Elon Musk, which TikTok dismissed as untrue.
President Donald Trump is reportedly weighing the possibility of lifting the TikTok ban in the United States through an executive order once he assumes office on January 20th.
The incoming president is contemplating an executive order to delay the ban, initially set to take effect on January 19th, as per The Washington Post. However, the legality of Trump’s decision to suspend the Congressional law is dubious.
Per the law, TikTok’s U.S. operations must be divested by its Chinese parent company by Sunday. Failure to do so will result in new users being unable to download TikTok from app stores.
In the absence of Supreme Court intervention to block the law, TikTok is gearing up to block access to the app for U.S. users on Sunday, reports tech news site Information.
On Wednesday, The Washington Post reported that Trump and his team are mulling over an executive order to temporarily halt law enforcement for 60 to 90 days, citing anonymous sources. The Supreme Court is anticipated to rule on the law’s progression, with recent indications suggesting it is unlikely to be halted.
“I have positive sentiments towards TikTok,” stated President Trump last month, requesting the Supreme Court to delay law enforcement to pursue a “political solution” post-inauguration. Congress voted to ban the app, owned by ByteDance in Beijing, citing fears of potential Chinese state data access for 170 million U.S. users.
“TikTok is a valuable platform,” affirmed Mike Walz, President Trump’s incoming national security advisor, on Fox News. “We will ensure data protection while preserving the app.”
The New York Times disclosed that TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chu, shared plans to attend President Trump’s inauguration in a prestigious setting.
NBC reported that the Biden administration is exploring strategies to prolong social media platform operations post-Sunday to defer President Trump’s decision.
“The American public should not anticipate an abrupt TikTok ban on Sunday,” reassured an administration official to NBC.
The Biden administration is taking final steps to strengthen U.S. cyber defenses against increasing threats from China and Russia. They will address vulnerabilities across various sectors, including space and consumer electronics, just days before the administration changes hands. An extensive cybersecurity executive order has been issued as part of this effort.
This directive is expected to be the administration’s last major policy initiative before President Donald Trump takes over. The order aims to combat cyberattacks that have cost the country billions of dollars and caused significant damage to government offices.
A senior administration official stated, “The objective is to make hacking by China, Russia, Iran, and ransomware criminals more challenging and costly, demonstrating that the United States is committed to safeguarding our companies and citizens.” The order follows recent China-linked cyberattacks, including a breach of the U.S. Treasury and communication systems.
Key provisions of the order include the implementation of end-to-end encryption for email and video communications, as well as new requirements for AI-powered cyber defense systems and quantum computing safeguards. It also expands the authority of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to detect threats across federal networks.
The order mandates that by 2027, federal agencies must only purchase internet-connected devices carrying the “Cybertrust Mark,” encouraging manufacturers to enhance security standards for products like baby monitors and home security systems. Additionally, stronger cybersecurity measures for space systems are called for in response to Russia’s targeting of Ukrainian satellite communications.
Amid uncertainties about the order’s longevity, Vice National Security Adviser Ann Neuberger, who led the initiative, plans to resign on January 17th, with the incoming Trump administration’s cyber team yet to be named. The order sets 53 deadlines for government agencies, ranging from 30 days to three years.
Despite the transition, administration officials remain hopeful about the order’s impact, describing it as an urgent response to a growing threat. The official stated, “Enhancing the defensibility of our national infrastructure and strengthening our ability to counter cyber attackers are bipartisan goals.”
On January 28, 2017, I hurried to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). That evening, protests were gaining momentum across the United States against President Donald Trump’s travel ban on visitors from seven Muslim-majority countries. The night was unusually cold, and I had not brought a proper jacket. Luckily, the train to the airport was warm and filled with nervous and chatty protesters. The airport itself was chaotic. Angry demonstrators blocked roads, causing taxis and Ubers to be stranded with meters still running. A hijab-wearing protester prayed next to a protest sign in the baggage claim area, while others shouted at travelers collecting their luggage. At that time, Trump was the most controversial figure in America, and his election had shocked the world.
Later that night, rumors of a $150 billion face in the crowd started to circulate. Sergey Brin, the founder and co-founder of Google, was present. At that time, he was the president of Alphabet, Google’s parent company, which also owns YouTube. The impact was electrifying. One of the wealthiest and most influential men in the world was publicly expressing his displeasure with Trump by participating in a protest against him. Brin, originally from Moscow and immigrating to the United States at the age of 6, stated he was at SFO that night “because I’m a refugee,” delivering a personal rebuke to Mr. Trump, whom he described as a complete xenophobe.
Following Brin’s lead, Google and other tech giants condemned Trump’s travel ban. Nearly 100 technology companies, including Facebook, Apple, Microsoft, and Uber, supported a lawsuit challenging the measure.
However, today’s protests against President Trump’s reelection have had minimal impact. Silicon Valley is shifting its stance to show more deference to Mr. Trump. This week, the tech industry finished its nominations for the upcoming president.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the cessation of the company’s fact-checking operations in the United States. In 2022, Meta had claimed to have built the largest global fact-checking network and spent $100 million on it.
A few days later, Mr. Zuckerberg revealed a reduction in efforts to enhance workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) – a move met with controversy. These policies had been disdained by Trump and faced criticism from his prominent supporter, Elon Musk. Zuckerberg, seemingly driven by ambition rather than personal beliefs, took actions such as promoting Dana White to Meta’s board of directors after dining with Trump and supporting his inaugural committee.
Mr. Zuckerberg’s actions seemed to be influenced by Trump’s threats, as the president-elect had warned of dire consequences if Zuckerberg interfered in the election. Mehta, like others, stood to benefit from a friendly Trump administration, particularly concerning Meta’s antitrust lawsuit.
Several tech CEOs, including Tim Cook, Sundar Pichai, and Satya Nadella, also demonstrated support for President Trump, each contributing in different ways. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi donated $2 million to Trump, and even Google made a substantial donation despite being targeted by Trump’s campaign.
The president-elect, noticing his newfound popularity, remarked on the change in attitude towards him. Meanwhile, Musk’s threats loomed over tech leaders like Jeff Bezos, Sam Altman, and Jensen Huang, demonstrating the power dynamics at play in the tech industry.
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