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A federal spending freeze announced by the Trump administration has led to confusion in Washington during the second week of President Donald Trump's new term. The White House sought to clarify which programs would be affected by the directive, aimed at reviewing compliance with executive orders on issues such as eliminating diversity and inclusion programs. Despite efforts to address the confusion, questions remain about how public-private partnerships like Meals on Wheels will be impacted.
In other developments, the U.S. Senate confirmed more of Trump's Cabinet nominees. Doug Burgum was confirmed as interior secretary with a bipartisan vote, while Sean Duffy became transportation secretary shortly before a midair collision incident over the Potomac River. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed expectations for swift confirmations of remaining nominees, though some faced tough questioning in public hearings.
President Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law, requiring detention for immigrants without legal status accused of theft or violent crimes. During the signing ceremony, Trump attributed his reelection to concerns over illegal immigration rather than economic issues.
Meanwhile, an Anglican Catholic Church priest had his license revoked after making a gesture interpreted as a pro-Nazi salute at a pro-life rally. The denomination condemned Nazi ideology and emphasized that such actions are incompatible with a priestly vocation.
President Trump also signed executive orders promoting school choice and ending funding for schools supporting "radical indoctrination." Bishop David M. O’Connell praised these measures for expanding educational freedom and recognizing parents as primary educators.
