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White House to Control Press Access to Trump, Breaking Long-Standing Tradition

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The White House announced on Tuesday that its officials will now decide which news outlets can regularly cover President Donald Trump up close, marking a significant departure from a century-old tradition where an independent press pool held the president accountable on behalf of the American public. The move, alongside the government’s arguments in a federal lawsuit filed by The Associated Press over media access, has sparked concerns among free speech advocates and journalists. Critics argue that it represents an unprecedented attempt to control coverage of the presidency, potentially limiting transparency and press freedom. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the decision, stating that the changes aim to modernize the press pool by rotating traditional outlets and incorporating streaming services. She framed the shift as a way to enhance inclusivity and restore access to the American people who elected Trump. However, media experts warn that allowing the president to selectively choose coverage raises serious First Amendment concerns. Three major wire services that distribute news globally criticized the decision, emphasizing that restricting press access could hinder the dissemination of reliable information about the U.S. president. Free speech advocates have also voiced alarm, warning that such control over media access sets a dangerous precedent for democracy. The announcement adds to growing tensions between the Trump administration and the press, with concerns that limiting access could undermine journalistic independence and public accountability. Source: Business Standard

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Donald Trump Calls for Federal Takeover of Washington, D.C. Citing Crime Concerns

Leave a Comment / / Governance Community

President Donald Trump has called for Washington, D.C., to be placed under direct federal control, citing rising crime and homelessness as major concerns. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump stated, “I think we should take over Washington, D.C. — make it safe,” reinforcing his stance that the federal government should govern the nation’s capital. Currently, D.C. operates under a Home Rule system, which allows Congress to review and overturn local laws. However, some Republican lawmakers are pushing for a broader intervention that would significantly reduce the city’s autonomy and return governance to direct federal oversight. While acknowledging his personal regard for D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Trump criticized the city’s leadership for failing to address key issues. He pointed to crime rates and the growing number of homeless encampments, saying, “Too much crime, too many tents on the lawns — these magnificent lawns.” Trump also expressed concerns about the city’s global image, particularly when hosting foreign dignitaries. He emphasized the need to maintain Washington, D.C.’s aesthetic appeal, stating, “You just can’t let that happen. You can’t have tents on all your beautiful — your once magnificent plaza and lawns.” His comments come amid a broader national debate on crime, homelessness, and urban governance, with Republican lawmakers increasingly calling for stricter federal oversight in cities they claim are mismanaged. Whether Congress will act on Trump’s proposal remains uncertain, but the discussion is likely to fuel ongoing political debates over federal and local control.

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China’s M&A Market Rebounds Amid Stimulus Measures and Trump Tariff Pressure

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China’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market is witnessing a resurgence after years of decline, driven by government stimulus measures and mounting pressure from U.S. tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. After five consecutive years of declining deal volume, China’s M&A activity surged in the final quarter of 2024, with deal value rising by 78.5% to $129 billion from the previous quarter’s $72 billion, according to Dealogic. Industry experts attribute this uptick to stimulus policies introduced in September 2024, aimed at consolidating domestic industries and strengthening China’s economic competitiveness. Despite this positive momentum, China’s total M&A deal value in 2024 remained nearly 45% lower than in 2020, when it reached $553 billion. Economic slowdown and cautious corporate strategies have contributed to a conservative investment approach in recent years, said Theodore Shou, chief investment officer at Skybound Capital. However, experts predict 2025 will bring a major shift, with increased M&A activity as Chinese firms adapt to fresh tariff challenges. Trump’s new 10% tariffs on Chinese goods, effective from February 4, have compounded existing levies of up to 25%. This has intensified the need for companies to diversify supply chains and seek strategic mergers to maintain global market relevance. Deloitte’s APAC M&A Services Leader, Stanley Lah, noted that consolidation is the fastest way for businesses to restructure amid trade pressures. Smaller enterprises, in particular, are feeling the strain, as indicated by a 4.8% drop in their revenue in Q3 2024, per Peking University’s Centre for Enterprise Research. With increasing deal activity and evolving trade dynamics, 2025 is poised to be a crucial year for China’s corporate landscape. Source: CNBC

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Pentagon Revamps Press Corps Workspace, Favoring Pro-Trump Outlets

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The Pentagon has announced a controversial “annual media rotation program”, set to take effect on February 14, that will replace major mainstream outlets with smaller, pro-Trump media organizations in the Pentagon press corps workspace. Key Changes: NBC News → One America News Network (OANN) (TV) National Public Radio (NPR) → Breitbart (Radio) The New York Times → New York Post (Print) Politico → HuffPost (Online) While the move aligns with the Trump administration’s push to disrupt media norms, it has sparked backlash from journalists and press freedom advocates. NBC News expressed “disappointment”, while the National Press Club raised concerns over “press restrictions and transparency.” Critics argue that Breitbart lacks a significant radio presence, and One America News, which has faced lawsuits over false election claims, does not even subscribe to Nielsen ratings. Despite losing their office space, the displaced outlets will retain full press access to Pentagon briefings and travel opportunities. However, press members fear that removing workspaces could limit in-depth coverage of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s tenure. Reaction & Impact: Kevin Baron, a former Pentagon Press Association VP, called it “the erasure of journalism at the Pentagon.” The National Press Club is demanding greater transparency on the selection process. Some view this as an attempt to sideline critical journalism while promoting pro-Trump media voices. The decision is already facing pushback, and further challenges from media organizations are expected. Source: CNN

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Gaza’s Governance Uncertain as Four Competing Models Take Shape

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As a fragile cease-fire holds in Gaza, four competing models for the territory’s governance are emerging, with no clear direction yet established: Hamas Control – Despite suffering significant losses, Hamas still holds power over much of Gaza and seeks to maintain its authority. Israeli Military Presence – Right-wing Israeli leaders advocate for continued military control, possibly expanding their occupation if necessary. International Oversight – Foreign security contractors, invited by Israel, are already managing a key checkpoint in northern Gaza. Some officials suggest this could evolve into broader international stewardship, potentially involving Arab states. Palestinian Authority Administration – The Palestinian Authority (PA), which lost Gaza to Hamas in 2007, has begun staffing the Egypt-Gaza border alongside European security officials, hoping to extend its role across the entire territory. The future of Gaza’s governance will likely hinge on U.S. policy, with Donald Trump set to discuss the issue with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington. Saudi Arabia could also play a decisive role if it agrees to normalize relations with Israel in exchange for a specific governance structure in Gaza. Source: Business Standard

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Trump’s Bold Agenda: Executive Orders to Reshape Border, Energy, and Governance

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Donald Trump is set to make sweeping changes as the 47th President of the United States by signing a series of executive orders shortly after his inauguration. These orders are expected to address immigration, border security, energy policy, and federal governance, as revealed by his close aide, Stephen Miller. What Are Executive Orders? Executive orders are directives issued by the President with the force of law, bypassing the need for Congressional approval. While Congress cannot directly overturn these orders, they are subject to judicial review. Key Changes on the Agenda According to Miller, Trump’s proposed orders aim to: Border Security: Declare a national emergency at the southern border, deploy military forces, reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and end the “Catch and Release” policy. Immigration Enforcement: Classify cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations” and intensify efforts to combat illegal immigration. Energy Policies: Expand offshore and Arctic drilling, accelerate pipeline construction, and lift restrictions on fossil fuel production. Governance Reforms: Rescind diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mandates, streamline government hiring, and introduce measures to remove federal employees more easily. Reversing Biden’s Policies Trump’s orders are also expected to roll back key initiatives of outgoing President Joe Biden, including the Paris Agreement on climate change and restrictions on domestic fossil fuel production. Trump’s Vision: A Stronger America During a victory rally in Washington, Miller emphasized Trump’s commitment to restoring American sovereignty and security. “It’s about ending the border invasion, eradicating criminal cartels, and bringing justice to victims of illegal immigration,” Miller declared, underscoring the urgency and ambition of Trump’s agenda. The Bigger Picture At 78, Trump is poised to reignite his “America First” platform with an aggressive policy rollout. His approach signals a focus on national security, energy independence, and governance reforms, promising a transformative start to his presidency. Photo Credit: Reuters

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