President Trump’s second inauguration oath deviated from tradition; while the Constitution mandates an oath or affirmation, it doesn’t prescribe the use of religious texts. Although nearly all officeholders utilize a Bible, Trump uniquely swore his oath with only one hand raised, foregoing the two Bibles presented. This action is notable given his public assertions of Christian faith. The reasons behind his choice remain unexplained.
Addressing the French military, President Macron urged Europe to increase defense spending to lessen dependence on the U.S., particularly given anticipated shifts in American foreign policy under a returning Donald Trump. He highlighted the need for sustained support for Ukraine, including potential peacekeeper deployment, to ensure a strong negotiating position and prevent renewed conflict. Macron emphasized Europe’s responsibility in safeguarding any peace agreement and adapting to evolving geopolitical landscapes. The potential for European troop deployment, however, carries inherent risks, including escalating conflict with Russia.
Panama’s President Mulino vehemently rejected President Trump’s claim to “take back” the Panama Canal, asserting Panama’s unwavering sovereignty over the waterway, secured by the 1977 Torrijos-Carter Treaty. Trump’s assertion, made during his inaugural address, contradicts the treaty’s terms and disregards Panama’s decades-long responsible management of the canal. Mulino warned against any actions violating Panama’s sovereignty, emphasizing the country’s commitment to international law and dialogue. Trump’s statements have sparked international condemnation and raised concerns about potential conflict.
Following Elon Musk’s enthusiastic speech at President Trump’s inauguration, his celebratory arm gesture sparked intense debate online. Critics interpreted the motion as a Nazi salute, while others suggested it was a Roman salute or simply an exuberant expression. The incident drew comparisons to a similar gesture made by Laura Ingraham in 2016, reigniting the controversy surrounding such ambiguous hand movements. Musk and his representatives have yet to comment, leaving the interpretation open to ongoing discussion.
Melania Trump launched her own meme coin, $MELANIA, shortly after her husband, President-elect Donald Trump, unveiled his own, $TRUMP. While $MELANIA initially saw a surge in value, reaching over $12 per coin and a $12 billion market cap, the launch coincided with a dramatic over 40% crash in the value of $TRUMP, losing over $7.5 billion in market capitalization. Both coins function as expressions of support, rather than investment opportunities, according to their respective websites. This development follows Trump’s appointment of David Sacks as his crypto and AI czar, signaling a potential shift in the nation’s approach to cryptocurrency.
Three lawsuits were filed on January 20th, challenging President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, alleging violations of the Federal Advisory Committee Act due to a lack of open meetings. The plaintiffs, including the American Federation of Government Employees and the American Federation of Teachers, seek to halt DOGE’s operations and prevent further actions regarding federal worker hiring and spending cuts. The lawsuits name Trump, the Office of Management and Budget, and DOGE itself as defendants. These legal challenges target DOGE’s advisory role to the President and its potential impact on federal employees.
President Trump signed executive orders aiming to recognize only two sexes (male and female) and eliminate federal DEI programs deemed “radical and wasteful.” The gender order mandates the use of “sex” instead of “gender” in official documents, impacting passports and visas, and restricts taxpayer funding for gender-transition healthcare. A second order targets the dismantling of DEI initiatives within federal agencies, focusing on environmental justice programs and equity-related grants. These actions, announced on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, are framed as a return to merit-based systems, while opponents argue they represent a setback for racial and social justice and anticipate legal challenges.
During the presidential inauguration, President Trump deviated from tradition by not placing his hand on the Bibles held by the First Lady. He opted to use both a family Bible and the Lincoln Bible for the oath of office. Unlike prior presidents, his left hand remained at his side during the swearing-in ceremony. This marked a departure from the customary use of a single Bible for the oath.
At a recent rally, President-elect Trump credited Elon Musk’s purported expertise in Pennsylvania’s voting systems for his landslide victory in the state. This statement, widely circulated online, prompted accusations from Trump critics of election rigging and spurred speculation about potential voter fraud. The claims have drawn sharp rebukes from Democrats, including a sitting congresswoman, who allege a confession to criminal activity. Newsweek has reached out to both the Trump transition team and Elon Musk for comment.
President Biden commuted Leonard Peltier’s sentence, releasing him from prison after decades of advocacy from Indigenous activists and human rights groups who claimed his conviction was unjust. This decision, which was opposed by law enforcement who cited the 1975 murders of two FBI agents, grants Peltier clemency but not a pardon. The commutation considers Peltier’s age, health issues, and lengthy imprisonment, culminating in a historic moment for Indigenous communities. His release follows years of lobbying efforts and support from various prominent figures and organizations.
John Q. Hosedrinker