On May 9, 2025, President Donald Trump cautioned Republican lawmakers about potential political repercussions if they proceed with raising taxes on high-income earners to fund his administration’s initiatives. In a social media post, Trump referenced former President George H.W. Bush’s infamous “Read my lips: no new taxes” pledge, suggesting that Democrats would exploit any GOP-backed tax increases in future campaigns.
Earlier that day, Trump proposed reducing tariffs on Chinese imports from 145% to 80%, signaling a possible shift in trade policy ahead of upcoming negotiations between U.S. and Chinese officials.
Additionally, Trump signed several executive orders focusing on water pressure regulations and immigration policies, demonstrating his administration’s continued emphasis on domestic regulatory reforms.
In a notable appointment, Trump named Jeanine Pirro, a former Fox News host known for her staunch loyalty and media presence, as the interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. Pirro replaces Ed Martin, whose nomination faced significant opposition.
On the international front, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced that a new humanitarian aid proposal for Gaza is a direct initiative from President Trump, emphasizing the administration’s active role in Middle East affairs.
Domestically, tensions escalated when Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested during a protest at a newly established immigration detention center in his city. Interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba, a close Trump ally, stated that Baraka trespassed and ignored multiple warnings from federal officials.
These developments underscore the Trump administration’s assertive approach to both domestic and foreign policy, as well as the internal debates within the Republican Party regarding fiscal strategies and political messaging.
Source: The Washington Post
