[Monday, April 14] US News Headlines from r/Conservative

2025-04-14 2017 words 10 minutes

Contents

1. Trump Administration & Policy

1.1 Presidential Actions & Communications

President Trump continues to demonstrate a distinctive communication approach, reportedly taking nearly twenty times more media questions than former President Biden did during his entire term [1]. The Trump White House has implemented a controversial communications policy regarding email interactions with reporters, generating both support and significant criticism [2]. President Trump has escalated tensions with mainstream media by characterizing CBS and “60 Minutes” program’s actions as “unlawful and illegal” [3], culminating in legal action with Trump expressing that he feels “honored” to be suing the network [4].

[1] Trump Answers Nearly 20 TIMES More Media Questions Than Old Joe Biden Did in Four Years, https://pjmedia.com/robert-spencer/2025/04/12/trump-answers-nearly-20-times-more-media-questions-than-old-joe-biden-did-in-four-years-n4938845;
[2] Trump White House policy to ignore reporters in emails brings praise and harsh criticism, https://www.foxnews.com/media/white-house-policy-ignore-reporters-using-pronouns-emails;
[3] Trump: CBS, ‘60 Minutes’ Attacks ‘Unlawful, Illegal’, https://www.newsmax.com/us/cbs-fcc-election/2025/04/14/id/1206795/;
[4] Trump ‘Honored’ to Be Suing ‘Fake News’ CBS, 60 Minutes, https://pjmedia.com/catherinesalgado/2025/04/14/fake-news-trump-honored-to-be-suing-cbs-60-minutes-n4938891;

1.2 International Relations & Policy Implementation

In his 13th week in office, the Trump administration is pursuing an aggressive stance on trade policy with plans for a significant “tariff negotiation blitz” [1]. Trump has met with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele [2], deepening diplomatic ties with Central American nations. This meeting generated controversy, with reports of confrontation involving CNN journalist Kaitlan Collins regarding a deported MS-13 gang member [3]. Oversight concerns have emerged regarding CDC operations, with Senator Ron Johnson alleging that a CDC physician responsible for monitoring adverse COVID-19 vaccine reactions may have deleted relevant files [4].

[1] Trump’s 13th week in office expected to include tariff negotiation blitz, visit from El Salvador leader, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trumps-13th-week-office-expected-include-tariff-negotiation-blitz-visit-from-el-salvador-leader;
[2] Trump Meets with Nayib Bukele, Destroys Fake New, https://pjmedia.com/sarah-anderson/2025/04/14/trump-meets-with-nayib-bukele-destroys-cnn-n4938889;
[3] Trump and Bukele Torch CNN’s Kaitlan Collins in Oval Office Showdown Over Deported MS-13 Gangbanger, https://redstate.com/terichristoph/2025/04/14/bukele-meeting-with-trump-at-white-house-n2187843;
[4] CDC doctor monitoring bad COVID vaccine reactions may have deleted files, alleges Sen. Ron Johnson, https://nypost.com/2025/04/10/us-news/govt-doctor-monitoring-bad-covid-19-vaccine-reactions-may-have-deleted-files-sen-ron-johnson/;

1.3 Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)

The DOGE model appears to be gaining international attention, with British political figure Nigel Farage advocating for similar “DOGE teams” to identify waste in English local governments [1]. However, data from The Wall Street Journal indicates that overall government spending has increased despite Musk’s claims of efficiency gains through DOGE [2]. This contrast between rhetoric and fiscal reality raises questions about the department’s effectiveness in achieving its core mission of reducing government expenditure.

[1] Nigel Farage Calls for ‘DOGE’ Teams to Root Out Waste and Inefficiencies in English Councils, https://www.breitbart.com/europe/2025/04/14/nigel-farage-calls-for-doge-teams-to-root-out-waste-in-english-councils/;
[2] See How Government Spending Is Up Even as Musk Touts Savings, https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/trump-doge-government-spending-increases-5903992d;

2. Economic Policy & Business

2.1 Technology Development & Manufacturing

A major development in domestic technology manufacturing is underway as Nvidia has announced plans to produce AI supercomputers in Texas, representing the first time these advanced systems will be manufactured entirely within the United States [1]. This initiative involves a substantial financial commitment of up to $500 billion for U.S.-based AI production [2]. The scale of this investment signals a significant shift in high-tech manufacturing strategy with implications for domestic job creation and technological competitiveness.

[1] NVIDIA to Manufacture American-Made AI Supercomputers in US for First Time, https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/nvidia-manufacture-american-made-ai-supercomputers-us/;
[2] Nvidia to Make AI Supercomputers in Texas and Plans Up to $500 Billion in U.S. AI Production, https://www.barrons.com/articles/nvidia-ai-us-supercomputers-infrastructure-b929d881;

2.2 Tariffs & International Trade

President Trump’s administration is implementing a robust international trade policy, emphasizing that no country will be exempt from his efforts to address “unfair trade balances” [1]. A specific focus has emerged on the semiconductor industry, with Trump announcing that targeted tariffs will be implemented with rates to be disclosed within a week [2]. Public reaction to these trade policies appears sharply divided, with some viewing the measures as necessary protections and others criticizing them as potentially damaging to international relationships [3].

[1] Trump vows nobody getting ‘off the hook’ for ‘unfair’ trade balances, says there was no tariff ’exception’, https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-vows-nobody-getting-off-hook-unfair-trade-balances-says-no-tariff-exception;
[2] Trump says specific tariff will be placed on semiconductor industry, rate to be announced within week, https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/trump-says-specific-tariff-placed-semiconductor-industry-rate-announced-within-week;
[3] ‘Necessary’ or ‘bullying our friends?’ Americans differ starkly on Trump tariffs, https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/necessary-bullying-our-friends-americans-differ-starkly-trump-tariffs;

2.3 Economic Indicators

Tax policy debates continue alongside international developments like France’s consideration of converting a temporary wealth tax into a permanent measure [1]. State-level spending has come under scrutiny, with reports that Michigan’s Economic Development Corporation directed approximately $300 million to various nonprofit organizations [2]. Recent economic data indicates a cooling of inflation rates [3], though specific figures and sector impacts are not detailed in available information.

[1] France wants to make one-off wealth tax permanent, https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2025/04/13/france-wants-to-make-one-off-wealth-tax-permanent_6740186_4.html;
[2] The Michigan Economic Development Corp funneled nearly $300 million to queer dance troupes and other random nonprofits last year, https://enjoyer.com/medc-taxpayer-funds-enetertainment-nonprofit-spending/;
[3] Inflation Cools Off: Media Hardest Hit, https://spectator.org/inflation-cools-off-media-hardest-hit/;

3. Immigration & Border Security

3.1 Deportation Operations & Enforcement

The Trump administration has intensified deportation operations, with ICE recently arresting an undocumented immigrant in Boston convicted of endangering children [1]. The administration has specifically targeted alleged gang members, with reports indicating that ten more such individuals were deported prior to Trump’s meeting with El Salvador’s President Bukele [2]. Trump’s senior immigration adviser Stephen Miller has accused a Department of Justice official of being a “saboteur” for suggesting a Salvadoran migrant was mistakenly deported [3]. Meanwhile, Arizona is taking significant action in its voter registration system, with reports indicating that nearly 50,000 non-citizens will be removed from the state’s voter rolls [4].

[1] Boston ICE arrest illegal immigrant convicted of endangering children, https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ice-boston-arrests-illegal-guatemalan-national-convicted-endangering-connecticut;
[2] Trump to meet with El Salvador president after deporting 10 more alleged gang members, https://v.redd.it/3geepglcssue1;
[3] Stephen Miller Blames DOJ ‘Saboteur’ For Claiming Salvadoran Migrant Mistakenly Deported, https://www.dailywire.com/news/stephen-miller-blames-doj-saboteur-for-claiming-salvadoran-migrant-mistakenly-deported;
[4] Arizona to Remove Almost 50K Non-Citizens from Voter Rolls, https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2025/04/13/arizona-remove-almost-50k-non-citizens-voter-lists/;

3.2 Border Protection & Policy Effects

Border security concerns have expanded to include vulnerabilities along the northern border, with security experts warning about potential threats from “bad actors” exploiting weaknesses along Great Lakes waterfront areas [1]. Tensions between federal and local approaches to immigration enforcement continue, exemplified by a Washington state sheriff publicly criticizing sanctuary city policies [2]. The implementation of stricter immigration policies is generating various social and economic impacts, with Chicago’s Cinco de Mayo parade being canceled over fears tied to Trump’s immigration policies [3] and Modelo’s owner reporting declining beer sales attributed to the crackdown on illegal immigration [4].

[1] US northern border faces Great Lakes threat from ‘bad actors’ pressing waterfront weaknesses: expert, https://www.foxnews.com/us/us-northern-border-faces-great-lakes-threat-from-bad-actors-pressing-waterfront-weaknesses-expert;
[2] WA sheriff rips state for sanctuary city policies: We need to protect our citizens | Fox News Video, https://www.foxnews.com/video/6371444138112;
[3] Chicago’s Cinco de Mayo parade canceled over fear tied to Trump’s immigration policies, https://www.fox29.com/news/chicago-cinco-de-mayo-parade-canceled-trump-immigration-policies;
[4] Modelo Owner Complains Trump’s Crackdown on Illegal Immigration Hurts Sales, https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2025/04/13/modelo-owner-complains-trumps-crackdown-on-illegal-immigration-hurts-sales/;

4. Justice System & National Security

4.1 Political Violence & Threats

A disturbing series of violent incidents targeting political figures has emerged across the country. According to the FBI, a 17-year-old in Wisconsin allegedly murdered his parents as part of what authorities describe as an extremist plot to assassinate President Trump [1]. In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro’s mansion was firebombed during Passover, with the suspect reportedly admitting to authorities that he had intended to assault the governor with a hammer [2]. The suspect has been described as a “registered socialist” [3]. In New Mexico, a man has been charged with arson attacks targeting both a Tesla dealership and the Republican Party office [4].

[1] FBI: Waukesha teen killed parents in extremist plot to assassinate Trump, https://www.wisn.com/article/fbi-waukesha-teen-killed-parents-in-extremist-plot-to-assassinate-trump/64461637;
[2] Suspect admits he firebombed Governor Shapiro’s mansion on Passover, with intention of assault with hammer, https://www.foxnews.com/us/pa-governors-mansion-attack-suspect-cody-balmer-admitted-harboring-hatred-toward-shapiro-police;
[3] “Registered socialist” arrested for firebombing mansion of Pennsylvania’s Democrat governor during Passover, https://notthebee.com/article/pennsylvania-governors-mansion-firebombed-by-socialist-wacko;
[4] Albuquerque Man Charged in Connection with Arson Attacks on Tesla Dealership and Republican Party of New Mexico Office, https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/albuquerque-man-charged-connection-arson-attacks-tesla-dealership-and-republican-party-new;

4.2 Judicial Decisions

Legal conflicts are unfolding between federal and state authorities, with Maine’s Attorney General criticizing the Trump administration following a judicial ruling related to a funding freeze [1]. A federal judge has ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to unfreeze funding to Maine [2]. In electoral matters, North Carolina’s Supreme Court has ruled that approximately 60,000 ballots cast without proper identification will nevertheless be counted [3], a decision with potential implications for upcoming elections in the state.

[1] Maine AG swipes Trump administration over judge’s funding-freeze ruling amid athlete battle, https://www.foxnews.com/sports/maine-ag-swipes-trump-administration-over-judges-funding-freeze-ruling-amid-trans-athlete-battle;
[2] Federal Judge Orders USDA to Unfreeze Funding to Maine, https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2025/04/13/federal-judge-orders-usda-to-unfreeze-funding-to-maine-as-trans-athletes-dispute-continues/;
[3] NC Supreme Court Allows 60K Votes Lacking ID To Count, https://thefederalist.com/2025/04/14/north-carolina-supreme-court-allows-60k-votes-lacking-id-to-count-in-high-court-race/;

4.3 International Conflicts

Multiple conflict zones are experiencing significant developments. Hamas is reportedly instructing its operatives to conceal themselves among civilian populations when they detect drone activity [1], a tactic with implications for civilian casualties and international humanitarian law. In Yemen, the recognized government is reportedly mobilizing approximately 80,000 fighters for an offensive against the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeidah [2], a potential operation that could significantly alter the balance of power in the Yemeni conflict.

[1] Hamas Instructs Its Terrorists to Hide Among Civilians When They Hear Drones, https://twitchy.com/amy-curtis/2025/04/13/hamas-instructs-terrorists-to-hide-in-civilian-crowds-if-they-hear-drones-n2411332;
[2] Yemeni gov’t reportedly preparing 80,000 man assault on Houthi-controlled Hodeidah port, https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-849945;

4.4 Foreign Policy & Military Matters

The Trump administration appears to be pursuing a distinct approach to international negotiations, with analysis suggesting that nuclear talks with Iran could potentially yield better results than those conducted during the previous administration [1]. Reports have also emerged scrutinizing former Vice President Biden’s past policies, alleging that despite his public criticism of Russia, he facilitated a “back door” arrangement in 2014 that allowed Russian gas to flow to Ukraine [2]. Internal military governance is under scrutiny with calls for the Pentagon to take a more aggressive stance against what are characterized as “politicized officers” [3].

[1] Why Trump’s nuclear talks with Iran could be far more successful than Biden’s, https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/14/why-trumps-nuclear-talks-with-iran-could-be-far-more-successful-than-bidens.html;
[2] While publicly rebuking Russia, Joe Biden opened 2014 back door for Moscow gas to flow to Ukraine, https://justthenews.com/accountability/political-ethics/hldwhile-publicly-punishing-russia-joe-biden-opened-back-door;
[3] The Pentagon Must Go on the Offensive to Defeat Politicized Officers, https://townhall.com/columnists/kurtschlichter/2025/04/14/the-pentagon-must-go-on-the-offensive-to-defeat-politicized-officers-n2655426;

5.1 Democratic Politicians & Opposition Activities

Investigations related to Hunter Biden continue to generate controversy, with claims that those who pursued tax cases against the President’s son faced significant professional consequences [1]. In labor politics, George Gresham, president of the 1199 Service Employees International Union, faces corruption allegations, with reports claiming that Democratic officials have declined to investigate these charges [2]. Reports allege that a leader of anti-Trump “Resistance” activities has received campaign funding from a Democratic power broker with ties to Chinese intelligence agencies [3], while questions about political neutrality in government institutions have emerged with claims that IRS leadership has a history of financially supporting Democratic candidates [4].

[1] Paying a Heavy Cost for Going After a Tax Cheat Named Hunter Biden, https://www.realclearinvestigations.com/articles/2025/04/10/paying_a_heavy_cost_for_going_after_a-tax-cheat_named_hunter_biden_1102533.html;
[2] 1199 SEIU boss George Gresham accused of corruption — but no Democrat will investigate, https://nypost.com/2025/04/13/opinion/1199-seiu-boss-george-gresham-accused-of-corruption-but-no-democrat-will-investigate/;
[3] EXCLUSIVE: Anti-Trump ‘Resistance’ Leader’s Campaign Bankrolled By Dem Power Broker Tied To Chinese Intel Agency, https://dailycaller.com/2025/04/14/michelle-wu-campaign-bankrolled-gary-yu-chinese-intel-agency/;
[4] IRS leadership has history of bankrolling Democrats, supporting left-wing movements, https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/investigations/3379510/irs-leadership-history-bankrolling-democrats/;

5.2 Health & Media Concerns

Public health preparations are advancing with the FDA granting fast-track designation for a potential H5N1 bird flu vaccine [1]. Controversies surrounding COVID-19 vaccines continue, with media personality Megyn Kelly publicly criticizing the medical community over what she describes as a vaccine-linked health condition, claiming “they lied to us” [2]. Media credibility is under scrutiny, with allegations that The Washington Post is “clinging to” what critics characterize as a “fake story” [3]. The New York Times faces criticism for its reporting about Kash Patel, a former intelligence official [4]. In higher education, Harvard University has reportedly refused Trump administration demands to implement stronger measures against antisemitism on campus [5].

[1] FDA Grants Fast Track Designation for Potential H5N1 Bird Flu Vaccine, https://www.drugtopics.com/view/fda-grants-fast-track-designation-for-potential-bird-flu-vaccine;
[2] Megyn Kelly blasts medical community over her Covid vaccine-linked condition: ‘They lied to us’, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/megyn-kelly-blasts-medical-community-over-her-covid-vaccine-linked-condition-they-lied-to-us/articleshow/120281462.cms;
[3] Washington Post’s Clinging to Fake Story Reminds Us What the Media Really Is, https://pjmedia.com/robert-spencer/2025/04/13/washington-posts-clinging-to-fake-story-reminds-us-what-the-media-really-is-n4938874;
[4] They Said WHAT About Kash Patel? The NYT Hits All-Time LOW with THIS Claim About Russiagate FBI Analyst, https://twitchy.com/samj/2025/04/14/auten-new-york-times-russia-meddling-n2411334;
[5] Harvard refuses Trump admin demands to curtail antisemitism on campus, https://nypost.com/2025/04/14/us-news/harvard-refuses-trump-admin-demands-to-curtail-antisemitism-on-campus-putting-billions-in-federal-aid-in-jeopardy/;