The Senate confirmed South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security on Saturday, marking another significant addition to President Donald Trump’s Cabinet as he advances his second-term agenda.
The Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth as the nation’s Secretary of Defense late Friday in a dramatic tie-breaking vote, overcoming vocal opposition and questions surrounding his qualifications and character. This confirmation solidifies President Donald Trump’s national security team as he prepares to take office.
Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) called for government agencies to resist President Donald Trump’s executive order eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mandates in federal institutions. Speaking on MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell Reports on Wednesday, Durbin argued that promoting diversity is essential to the country’s strength and urged agencies, corporations, and universities to continue implementing DEI initiatives despite Trump’s directive.
Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) highlighted his America First Act during a Senate Budget Committee meeting on Wednesday, reiterating its goal of banning illegal immigrants from accessing welfare and other federal benefits. Originally introduced in December 2024, the legislation seeks to block billions of taxpayer dollars from being used to support individuals paroled into the United States through questionable asylum claims.
House Republicans, led by Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA), are working to codify aspects of President Donald Trump’s policies into law. During a recent interview, Griffith highlighted progress on legislation addressing illegal immigration and public safety, emphasizing the importance of keeping promises to constituents.
Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) introduced a pair of bills that would require each U.S. state to provide information about the number of abortions that occur within them and end federal funding for Planned Parenthood.
President Donald Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, said Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested more than 300 illegal immigrants responsible for crimes.
