Trump and Bukele: A Meeting of Power, Law, and Immigration Controversy
On April 14, 2025, in a high‑profile Oval Office meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump and El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele came face-to-face amid a swirling controversy over deportations and border security. The encounter, which has captured international attention, shines a spotlight on the ongoing debate over executive power, judicial oversight, and human rights in the realm of immigration policy.
A Strategic yet Contentious Partnership
Amid a backdrop of relentless debates over immigration reform, the meeting reaffirmed a strategic but polarizing alliance. Both leaders have adopted a hard‑line approach to crime and immigration that transcends domestic policy debates. As President Trump praised Bukele’s tough stance on deportations, his comments underscored their shared goal to remove those deemed dangerous from U.S. soil.
“We appreciate working with you because you want to stop crime—and so do we,” President Trump declared during the meeting, emphasizing the strategic nature of the partnership.
Bukele, widely recognized for his populist and no‑nonsense approach to gang violence in El Salvador, has become an essential partner to the Trump administration. His government now plays a key role in managing the flow of deported individuals—often labeled as gang members—and hosting them in maximum‑security prisons such as the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT). This cooperation not only bolsters Bukele’s domestic security agenda but also builds political capital internationally.
The Controversial Deportation of Kilmar Abrego García
A focal point during the Oval Office meeting was the high‑profile case of Kilmar Abrego García—a Salvadoran citizen from Maryland who was deported in March 2025 despite a 2019 court order designed to protect him from being sent back to a country where he could face gang persecution.
U.S. officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, contend that the Supreme Court has mandated that the Trump administration “facilitate” García’s return to the United States. However, the executive branch has maintained that decisions on foreign policy lie solely with the president and not with judicial authorities.
“I don’t have the power to return him to the United States. The question is preposterous,” Bukele stated during the meeting, echoing his own government’s narrative linking García to the MS‑13 gang—a claim vehemently denied by García’s family and legal representatives.
Rubio later reiterated that “the foreign policy of the United States is conducted by the president, not by a court,” hinting that while the Supreme Court’s directive calls for facilitation, the ultimate decision remains one of executive discretion. This stance has raised alarms among legal experts who worry it could set a precedent for defying judicial orders.
Broader Immigration Policies and Human Rights Concerns
Beyond the García case, the meeting delved into broader immigration enforcement strategies. Since March, over 200 Venezuelan immigrants have been deported to El Salvador under assertions that they are linked to violent gangs such as MS‑13 and Tren de Aragua—a claim that remains under intense scrutiny by human rights advocates.
These deportations, supported by both Trump’s administration and Bukele’s government, are implemented under old legal authorities like the 18th‑century Alien Enemies Act. Critics argue that relying on such outdated statutes risks infringing upon due process and human rights.
“We must ensure that every action respects human rights. Sending people to foreign prisons without a fair hearing could violate international law,” noted several judicial experts and human rights activists, who warn that the current deportation practices may expose detainees to severe conditions.
The financial arrangements also add a layer of complexity. Bukele’s administration has secured deals in which the U.S. pays millions of dollars annually per deportee to maintain the CECOT facility—a practice that has ignited controversy both domestically and internationally. According to reports, such deals could help fund El Salvador’s crackdown on gangs while simultaneously deepening the bilateral partnership, albeit at a human cost.
Rhetoric, Sovereignty, and the Future of U.S. Immigration Policy
During the meeting, Trump’s robust defense of strict deportation measures was evident as he lauded Bukele as “a great friend” and suggested even considering the deportation of U.S. citizens convicted of violent crimes—an idea that faces substantial constitutional challenges.
Bukele’s resolute message, “I don’t have the power to send him back,” not only underscored the sovereignty of El Salvador in managing its domestic affairs but also highlighted the tension between court orders and executive power. This debate touches upon the critical question of how far judicial influence should reach in matters that the executive claims fall within its exclusive foreign policy purview.
“I don’t understand the confusion. This person is a citizen of El Salvador. He was illegally in our country and was returned to his country of origin,” stated Secretary Rubio, emphasizing the traditional interpretation of deportation as the return of an individual to their homeland.
Conclusion
The Oval Office meeting on April 14, 2025, between President Trump and President Bukele encapsulates the multifaceted challenges inherent in contemporary immigration policy. With high‑stakes issues such as the case of Kilmar Abrego García at its center, the discussion brings into sharp relief the interplay among executive authority, judicial mandates, and human rights imperatives in the international arena.
While Trump and Bukele appear united in their “tough on crime” stance, the controversy surrounding deportations and the legal ambiguities of using century‑old laws leave many questions unanswered. As debates continue over executive versus judicial power and the ethics of current deportation practices, this high‑profile meeting has undoubtedly set the stage for further scrutiny—and possibly, dramatic shifts—in U.S. immigration policy.


The 30 Best Movies Streaming on Netflix Right Now
Looking for something great to watch on Netflix? From award-winning dramas to wild comedies and everything in between, this list of 30 fantastic films has something for every mood. Whether you're in the mood to laugh, cry, think deeply, or just have a good time, these are the best movies currently streaming on Netflix.
1. Godzilla Minus One
You don't know Godzilla until you see Godzilla Minus One. While American films featuring the iconic kaiju focus heavily on large-scale monster-vs.-monster battles and often sideline the human element, writer/director Takashi Yamazaki reclaims the Japanese legend with a masterful blend of monstrous mayhem and human emotion.
Set in the aftermath of World War II, the film follows a disgraced kamikaze pilot, played by Ryunosuke Kamiki, who faces not only his haunting past but also the devastating power of Godzilla. With the world still reeling from nuclear trauma, the film adds layers of emotional depth—whether it's quiet moments shared over a humble home-cooked meal or harrowing scenes of city-leveling destruction. The stunning visuals earned the film an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, but what truly sets it apart is its heart. Even on a smaller screen, the emotional weight hits as hard as Godzilla’s footsteps.
How to watch: Godzilla Minus One is streaming on Netflix.
2. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
In 2018, we got what remains one of the best superhero movies of all time with Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. That’s an incredibly tough act to follow—but Across the Spider-Verse does so with flair, heart, and even more dazzling animation.
In the second chapter of Miles Morales' saga, our young Spider-Man is growing up and trying to juggle his double life in Brooklyn. A surprise visit from Gwen Stacy (aka Spider-Woman) pulls him into a wild multiverse adventure filled with new spider-people, a mysterious villain, and a choice that could change the entire Spider-Verse forever.
Sure, we’re all a little burnt out on multiverse stories—but this one is clever, exhilarating, and visually stunning. The new characters are a blast, voiced by an A-list cast including Issa Rae, Oscar Isaac, Daniel Kaluuya, Karan Soni, and Greta Lee. With bold action, emotional stakes, and next-level animation, this sequel somehow raises the bar even higher than its Oscar-winning predecessor.
How to watch: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is streaming on Netflix.
3. Boyz n the Hood
Director John Singleton gave us one of the most powerful dramas of the 1990s in his directorial debut. Boyz n the Hood is a raw and unflinching portrait of Black life in South Central Los Angeles. It follows Tre (Cuba Gooding Jr.), a teen navigating a world of gang rivalries, systemic injustice, and the guidance of his wise father Furious (an incredible Laurence Fishburne).
But the film is about more than just street violence — it explores how cycles of poverty and systemic racism shape the lives of its characters. It was a landmark film in shifting how Black stories were told in mainstream cinema, paving the way for future classics. It also launched careers for stars like Nia Long, Regina King, Ice Cube, and Morris Chestnut.
How to watch: Boyz n the Hood is streaming on Netflix.
4. May December
Todd Haynes’s latest film is more than a true-crime-inspired domestic drama. With a razor-sharp script from Samy Burch, May December becomes a smart, biting satire of melodrama and celebrity obsession.
Julianne Moore plays a woman with a scandalous past that’s thrust back into the spotlight when an actress (played by Natalie Portman) arrives to research her life for a film. What follows is a story of manipulation, performance, and social spectacle, all tinged with unsettling humor and eerie intimacy.
How to watch: May December is streaming on Netflix.
5. Crossroads
Britney Spears, Zoe Saldana, and Taryn Manning take center stage in this millennial cult classic. Written by Shonda Rhimes, Crossroads is part road trip comedy, part emotional coming-of-age drama.
The trio journeys to Los Angeles — for a music audition, a family reunion, and some soul-searching — encountering big revelations along the way. With unforgettable karaoke scenes and plot twists that hit like a freight train, Crossroads is a nostalgic gem that perfectly captures the messy, emotional rollercoaster of teen girlhood.
How to watch: Crossroads is streaming on Netflix.
6. The Kitchen
In a dystopian near-future London, The Kitchen explores what happens when a community under siege decides to fight back. Directed by Kibwe Tavares and Daniel Kaluuya, the film is both a gripping sci-fi story and a political allegory about housing, gentrification, and resistance.
Kane Robinson and Jedaiah Bannerman shine as residents of The Kitchen — the last free housing zone in the city — fighting to survive brutal police raids and government neglect. It’s a haunting, timely, and visually stunning debut for Kaluuya behind the camera.
How to watch: The Kitchen is now streaming on Netflix.
7. Nimona
Set in a world where knights and high-tech gadgets collide, Nimona is a fun, fierce animated adventure with a ton of heart.
Shapeshifting misfit Nimona (voiced by Chloë Grace Moretz) teams up with disgraced knight Ballister Boldheart (Riz Ahmed) to bring down a corrupt institution. With themes of identity, queerness, and found family, Nimona hits emotional notes that resonate deeply — all while serving thrilling fight scenes and gorgeous animation.
How to watch: Nimona is now streaming on Netflix.
8. Maria
In Maria, Angelina Jolie disappears into the role of opera legend Maria Callas, delivering one of her most restrained and haunting performances to date.
Set in Callas’ final days in Paris, director Pablo Larraín (of Spencer and Jackie) paints a surreal, melancholy portrait of a woman reflecting on fame, love, and loss. With visual elegance and emotional depth, Maria is a meditative biopic unlike any other.
How to watch: Maria is now streaming on Netflix.
9. Closer
Mike Nichols' Closer is a seductive drama about love, betrayal, and the messiness of human desire. Four characters — played by Natalie Portman, Jude Law, Julia Roberts, and Clive Owen — fall in and out of relationships in deeply dysfunctional (and very entertaining) ways.
It’s provocative, cynical, and laced with dialogue that cuts like a knife. Whether you find it brilliant or borderline trashy, Closer is impossible to look away from.
How to watch: Closer is streaming on Netflix.
10. Da 5 Bloods
Spike Lee’s war epic Da 5 Bloods is a powerful exploration of Black veterans reckoning with the trauma of war and racism.
The story follows four aging soldiers who return to Vietnam to find the remains of their fallen squad leader (played in flashbacks by Chadwick Boseman) and recover buried gold. With brilliant performances — especially from Delroy Lindo — and a potent political punch, it’s one of Lee’s most searing recent works.
How to watch: Da 5 Bloods is streaming on Netflix.
11. The Mitchells vs. The Machines
This chaotic animated family comedy is a joyride of tech-fueled mayhem and heartfelt bonding. When the robot apocalypse hits, it’s up to the dysfunctional Mitchell family to save the world.
With wild visuals, meme-worthy humor, and big-hearted emotion, this is a film both kids and adults will love. Bonus: the voice cast includes Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, and Olivia Colman as a rogue A.I.
How to watch: The Mitchells vs. The Machines is streaming on Netflix.
12. The Power of the Dog
Director Jane Campion delivers a slow-burn Western filled with menace, mystery, and emotional depth.
Benedict Cumberbatch plays Phil Burbank, a domineering rancher whose cruelty masks deep inner turmoil. With stunning performances by Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, and Kodi Smit-McPhee, this Oscar-winning film is subtle, beautiful, and devastating.
How to watch: The Power of the Dog is streaming on Netflix.
13. Hit Man
A thrilling blend of rom-com and undercover crime caper, Hit Man stars Glen Powell as a philosophy professor-turned-fake assassin.
When he meets a client (Adria Arjona) looking to escape her abusive husband, sparks fly — and identities start to blur. With direction from Richard Linklater, the film is stylish, clever, and impossibly charming.
How to watch: Hit Man is now streaming on Netflix.
14. Okja
Director Bong Joon-ho (Parasite) brings his signature blend of whimsy, horror, and heart to this eco-fable about a girl and her genetically modified “super pig.”
When a corporation tries to take her beloved Okja away, young Mija sets off on a globe-trotting rescue mission. Okja is weird, wild, and deeply moving — a true original.
How to watch: Okja is streaming on Netflix.
15. Marriage Story
Noah Baumbach’s heartbreakingly honest drama about divorce captures the beauty and pain of love’s unraveling.
With career-best performances from Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver, Marriage Story is emotional, tender, and quietly devastating — a gut punch that still somehow heals.
How to watch: Marriage Story is streaming on Netflix.
16. tick, tick... Boom!
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s directorial debut celebrates the life and genius of Rent creator Jonathan Larson, brought to life by a sensational Andrew Garfield.
With stunning musical numbers and raw emotion, tick, tick... Boom! is a love letter to ambition, creativity, and the ticking clock that drives all artists.
How to watch: tick, tick... Boom! is streaming on Netflix.
17. Will & Harper
Since their early days on Saturday Night Live, Will Ferrell and Harper Steele have shared a creative bond that led to everything from A Deadly Adoption to Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. But Will & Harper, directed by Josh Greenbaum (Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar), is their most personal collaboration yet.
This intimate documentary follows the two friends on a road trip across America as they reconnect after Harper comes out as a trans woman. With stops at dive bars, basketball games, and a surly Texas steakhouse, the film blends humor and vulnerability, offering a heartfelt portrait of friendship and identity in today’s America.
How to watch: Will & Harper is now streaming on Netflix.
18. Sing Street
Set in 1980s Dublin, Sing Street is a joyous coming-of-age musical from Once director John Carney. When shy teen Conor (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) starts a band to impress a girl, he finds unexpected purpose in the process.
With an unforgettable soundtrack, great chemistry between the young cast, and themes of rebellion, creativity, and first love, Sing Street is both a nostalgic throwback and a timeless underdog story.
How to watch: Sing Street is streaming on Netflix.
19. Roma
A masterpiece from director Alfonso Cuarón, Roma is a deeply personal, black-and-white elegy to memory, class, and womanhood.
Set in 1970s Mexico City, the story follows Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio), a live-in housekeeper working for a middle-class family as political unrest stirs around her. Quietly powerful and gorgeously shot, Roma is an emotional triumph that earned Cuarón a well-deserved Oscar for Best Director.
How to watch: Roma is now streaming on Netflix.
20. Farha
Set during the 1948 Nakba, Farha is a gut-wrenching coming-of-age tale based on a true story.
As war descends on her Palestinian village, 14-year-old Farha (Karam Taher) dreams of education, only to be forced into hiding as violence erupts. Directed by Darin J. Sallam, this powerful film conveys history through the eyes of a child — intimate, harrowing, and essential.
How to watch: Farha is streaming on Netflix.
21. I'm Thinking of Ending Things
Charlie Kaufman (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) returns with a cerebral mind-bender that’s equal parts horror, philosophy, and emotional unraveling.
Starring Jessie Buckley and Jesse Plemons, this adaptation of Iain Reid’s novel follows a woman on a surreal visit to meet her boyfriend’s parents — a visit that quickly morphs into an existential nightmare. Unsettling, poetic, and unforgettable.
How to watch: I'm Thinking of Ending Things is streaming on Netflix.
22. RRR
Big, bold, and completely bonkers, RRR is a maximalist action extravaganza from Indian director S. S. Rajamouli.
Set in 1920s colonial India, it imagines two freedom fighters as mythic heroes (played by N. T. Rama Rao Jr. and Ram Charan) with tiger-punching, bridge-swinging, dance-battling abilities. Every scene is turned up to eleven — especially the now-iconic “Naatu Naatu” musical number.
How to watch: RRR is streaming on Netflix.
23. A Simple Favor
Glamour, cocktails, and murder come together in this slick suburban noir-comedy from Paul Feig.
Anna Kendrick stars as a cheerful mommy vlogger who befriends stylish, mysterious Blake Lively — until Lively disappears without a trace. What follows is a twist-filled, campy delight that goes full Gone Girl with a wink.
How to watch: A Simple Favor is streaming on Netflix.
24. The Polka King
You haven’t lived until you’ve seen Jack Black scam retirees in a bedazzled vest.
In The Polka King, Black plays Jan Lewan, a real-life Pennsylvania polka star who turned out to be running a massive Ponzi scheme. Based on the documentary The Man Who Would Be Polka King, this comedy leans into the bizarre true story with gusto, backed by hilarious supporting turns from Jenny Slate, Jacki Weaver, and Jason Schwartzman.
How to watch: The Polka King is now streaming on Netflix.
25. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
The Benoit Blanc Cinematic Universe is alive and thriving. In this follow-up to Knives Out, Daniel Craig returns as the Southern sleuth, now investigating a murder at a tech mogul’s (Edward Norton) opulent Greek island estate.
With a star-studded ensemble — including Janelle Monáe, Kate Hudson, Dave Bautista, and Kathryn Hahn — Glass Onion is sharper, weirder, and more satirical than its predecessor. A whodunnit for the influencer age.
How to watch: Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery is now streaming on Netflix.
26. Klaus
Who says animated holiday movies are just for December? Klaus, an Oscar-nominated feature from Spanish animator Sergio Pablos, is one of the most charming and emotionally satisfying films on Netflix. The hand-drawn animation is stunning, and the story — about a spoiled postman (voiced by Jason Schwartzman) sent to a remote town where he meets a reclusive toymaker (J.K. Simmons) — reimagines the origin of Santa Claus with heart, wit, and a surprising emotional punch. It’s the kind of film that sneaks up on you and leaves you misty-eyed by the final act. — A.F.
How to watch: Klaus is streaming on Netflix.
27. The Trial of the Chicago 7
Aaron Sorkin’s courtroom drama recounts the true story of seven anti-Vietnam War protesters who were charged with conspiracy after the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Sorkin’s script is characteristically snappy and razor-sharp, and the ensemble cast — including Sacha Baron Cohen, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Eddie Redmayne, and Mark Rylance — delivers stellar performances across the board. It’s part historical drama, part legal thriller, and entirely gripping, with themes that feel unfortunately timeless. — B.E.
How to watch: The Trial of the Chicago 7 is streaming on Netflix.
28. Enola Holmes
Millie Bobby Brown steps out of Hawkins and into Victorian London as Sherlock Holmes’s rebellious younger sister in this delightful adventure-mystery film. Enola is smart, strong-willed, and always one step ahead, making her a fantastic heroine for a new generation. With Henry Cavill as Sherlock and Helena Bonham Carter as their fiery mother, the cast is stacked with charm. The action is clever, the message empowering, and the vibe refreshingly fun. — K.P.
How to watch: Enola Holmes is streaming on Netflix.
29. The Wonder
Florence Pugh stars in this haunting psychological drama set in 19th-century Ireland. As an English nurse sent to a rural village to observe a young girl who hasn’t eaten in months, Pugh brings a quiet, steely determination to the role that anchors the film. The Wonder is eerie, atmospheric, and deeply thought-provoking, exploring the collision of science, religion, and trauma with a slow-burn intensity. Pugh is, unsurprisingly, phenomenal. — S.C.
How to watch: The Wonder is now streaming on Netflix.
30. Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio
Forget everything you thought you knew about Pinocchio. Guillermo del Toro’s stop-motion adaptation transforms the classic tale into a gorgeously macabre and emotionally complex fable about love, loss, and humanity. Set in Fascist-era Italy, this isn't your Disney childhood version — it's darker, deeper, and visually spectacular. The craftsmanship alone is enough to warrant a watch, but del Toro’s signature heart and melancholy make it unforgettable. — B.E.
How to watch: Pinocchio is streaming on Netflix.


A Blessing for Passover: A Message from President Donald J. Trump
Passover is a sacred time when Jewish families come together with friends and loved ones to celebrate, remember, and reflect on their rich heritage. This meaningful holiday not only commemorates the historical journey of liberation but also reaffirms the bonds of family, community, and faith. In this spirit, President Donald J. Trump extended his warm wishes with the following message:
"To all the Jewish families gathering with friends and loved ones this week, have a blessed Passover, and may God continue to watch over the Jewish people, the State of Israel, and the United States of America." –President Donald J. Trump
The Meaning Behind the Greeting
President Trump's message is more than a simple holiday greeting; it is a heartfelt expression of solidarity and support for the Jewish community. Key points conveyed through his message include:
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Family Unity: In times of uncertainty and challenge, gathering with loved ones and celebrating shared traditions is a powerful reminder of the enduring strength that comes from familial bonds.
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Divine Protection: The blessing underscores a deep hope that God’s protection will always be upon the Jewish people, reinforcing the spiritual connection that many in the community cherish.
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International Ties: By mentioning the State of Israel and the United States, the greeting highlights the longstanding relationship and mutual support between nations that value shared ideals of freedom and democracy.
Reflecting on Culture and History Through Passover
Passover is not just a holiday; it is a symbol of resilience, freedom, and the enduring human spirit. The historical narrative of overcoming adversity has left an indelible mark on the Jewish collective memory:
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Resilience in the Face of Adversity: The Passover story is a powerful reminder of the strength required to overcome hardship. Each family gathering becomes a moment to honor that resilience and to pass down lessons of courage and determination.
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A Celebration of Liberation: Beyond a recollection of past struggles, Passover is a festival of hope—a time to look forward to a future filled with promise and new beginnings.
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Strengthening Community Bonds: Sharing the Passover meal and the retelling of its history reinforces the sense of unity within the community, ensuring that the heritage and values of past generations remain alive.
The Contemporary Impact of the Message
In today’s complex global landscape, messages like President Trump’s play an essential role in reaffirming shared values and strengthening international relationships:
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Building a Supportive Community: The warm greeting helps reinforce the solidarity and support felt by Jewish families around the world, reminding them that their cultural and religious identity is cherished.
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Global Relationships: The explicit mention of Israel and the United States underscores the strategic and historical connections that exist between these communities, fostering a sense of unity that transcends borders.
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Inspiration and Hope: At its core, the message inspires hope—a gentle reminder that even amid current challenges, the spirit of resilience and the promise of a better future continue to guide the community.
Conclusion
Passover remains a profound time for reflection, celebration, and renewal. Through his blessing, President Donald J. Trump not only acknowledged the significance of this tradition but also extended a message of unity and protection for the Jewish people. In a world where cultural ties and international bonds are more important than ever, such heartfelt greetings serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring values that bring us together, bridging the gap between past triumphs and future hopes.


“So Much Good News!”: Karoline Leavitt Hails Trump’s Rockstar Team After a Week of Wins
The energy is electric at the Trump White House — and according to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the victories are just beginning.
Appearing on Hannity, Leavitt couldn't contain her excitement:
“There’s so much good news flowing out of President Trump’s rockstar team right now. Every single day, we’re delivering wins for the American people.”
From economic boosts to foreign policy progress, the Trump administration is riding a wave of momentum that’s turning heads — even among skeptics.
Trade Talks, Inflation Drops, and a Confident White House
When asked about specifics, Leavitt pointed to tangible results:
“We’ve made major headway in trade negotiations, especially with China. President Trump is showing strength and strategy — not just talk, but real action.”
She also noted that inflation is easing and energy prices are stabilizing — signs, she said, of a country on the rebound under Trump’s leadership.
“American families are finally starting to breathe again. That’s not an accident. That’s leadership.”
Strategy, Not Surrender
Critics have questioned recent delays in tariff decisions, but Leavitt pushed back hard:
“That’s not backing down — it’s smart negotiation. President Trump knows when to push, and when to pivot. The results speak for themselves.”
A Team on the Rise
Karoline Leavitt closed the interview with a bold promise:
“We’re just getting started. This team is energized, focused, and laser-locked on delivering results. Stay tuned — the best is yet to come.”


“Our Health Cannot Be For Sale”: Bernie Sanders Joins Care Workers in a Town Hall to Defend Medicaid
In a powerful live broadcast, Senator Bernie Sanders stood shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of care workers, domestic aides, family caregivers, and people with disabilities, challenging planned massive cuts to Medicaid that would jeopardize home care for millions. The event galvanized an audience whose voices, frustrations, and dreams for a more equitable health care system rang out through every statement and question.
The Vital Role of Home-Based Health Care
During the town hall, the message was clear: “Home health care is not a luxury—it’s an essential part of our overall health system,” declared one speaker as they underscored that the work they do for their loved ones deserves fair compensation. In a forceful reminder of the stakes, a participant noted,
"You deserve the compensation commensurate with the work that you’re doing."
This resonated deeply with the crowd, reflecting a long-fought struggle for recognition and proper benefits—an effort that some care workers described as a battle waged over two decades.
Voices from the Front Lines
One of the care providers, Rene Ree from Victorville, California—a seasoned childcare provider with 25 years of experience—shared her story with palpable emotion:
“We have been in a struggle for a long time. It took us 20 years to secure the right to form a union and claim the benefits we finally have. Now, even as we provide care 24/7 for over 20 children, we face the threat of drastic funding cuts,” she lamented.
Rene’s impassioned plea highlighted the precarious nature of health care support not only for the children under her care but also for the essential workers across the state. With 45,000 family childcare providers in California potentially impacted by a proposed reversal of a $100 million investment, her words painted a stark picture of a system teetering on the edge.
A Stand Against Wealth Transfer
Senator Sanders did not mince words when addressing the proposed policy shifts. He framed the debate as nothing less than a fight against a “massive transfer of wealth from working people to the top 1%.” In his typically direct manner, he declared:
“Tell your member of Congress, ‘You are not going to cut Medicaid or replace these vital programs to fill the coffers of billionaires!’”
He warned that such cuts were not merely fiscal adjustments but part of a larger agenda to strip away the human rights of millions by devaluing health care as a fundamental right. Sanders evoked images of other industrialized nations—countries that guarantee health care at little to no cost—and challenged the United States to do the same.
A Rallying Cry for Unity
Beyond policy details, the town hall was a call to arms. Sanders urged the audience to look at the bigger picture of American democracy:
“We must come together—not just in protest, but with a commitment to building a system that treats health care as a human right for every single person.”
His words echoed the sentiments of many who see the current proposals as a betrayal of the principles of fairness and equality. One attendee encapsulated the mood when they asked, “Senator, what will you do to stop these cuts and ensure that working families are protected?” Sanders replied that his answer lay not in words alone but in the promise of action and continued grassroots mobilization.
Conclusion
The Care Workers Town Hall was more than a policy debate—it was a passionate stand for dignity, fairness, and the health of America’s most vulnerable citizens. As Bernie Sanders reminded the gathering, the fight is not just for Medicaid but for a health care system that honors the human right to care, respect, and security. His call was simple yet resounding:
“Healthcare is a human right—let’s stand together and fight for a future where no one’s health is put on the market.”
In an era marked by sweeping policy proposals and stark economic divides, the event served as a rallying cry—a reminder that when millions unite, they can challenge even the most entrenched systems of power.


Flying High: Trump's Bold In-Flight Message on Air Force One
There’s something undeniably cinematic about a press conference that isn’t held in a stuffy briefing room—it's held on Air Force One. In a scene straight out of an action movie, President Trump took to the skies to speak directly to reporters, turning the iconic aircraft into a dynamic stage for his message.
A New Kind of Press Briefing
Imagine the hum of the engines, the gentle sway of the cabin, and the unmistakable buzz of cameras as the president stands before a curious crowd of journalists. Instead of the traditional White House backdrop, Trump’s choice to engage from Air Force One brought a palpable sense of immediacy and flair to his remarks. This wasn’t just another briefing—it was a signal that sometimes change of scenery can also mean a change of approach.
What Made It Stand Out?
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Breaking the Mold: The unconventional venue sent a clear message: when you’re ready to shake things up, even the sky isn’t your limit.
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Direct Dialogue: With the plane soaring above, Trump’s straightforward answers and distinct communication style cut through the noise of modern media chatter.
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A Symbol of Readiness: Air Force One isn’t just a mode of transport—it’s a symbol of national power and mobilization. Holding a press event there underscores a blend of tradition with bold innovation.
A Bit of Atmosphere
The setting itself was a character in the story. Against the backdrop of a moving aircraft, every word carried the weight of both authority and adventure. Reporters, perched in their seats with notepads and cameras in hand, were given a front-row seat to this high-altitude performance of political theater.
What’s the Takeaway?
The event wasn’t just about conveying policy or answering questions—it was about reinventing the way a leader connects with the public. It was a reminder that when you mix tradition with a dash of unpredictability, you can create a moment that’s as memorable as it is newsworthy.
Whether you see it as a clever twist on conventional press briefings or just another eccentric moment in political history, one thing is clear: on Air Force One, the rules of engagement are rewritten, and the sky truly becomes the limit.


Week of Victories at the White House: A New Wave of Progress
In recent days, the White House has marked a series of resounding victories that signal a significant step forward in economic policy, diplomacy, and energy development. From bold trade measures to strategic moves on the international stage, it’s been a week of breakthroughs and impressive achievements.
1. 145% Tariffs on China: A Bold Trade Strategy
Amidst fierce global economic competition, imposing a 145% tariff on select Chinese imports is a daring move. This decision is not only aimed at protecting domestic industries but also serves as a stern warning to foreign competitors, underlining the commitment to safeguard national interests in international trade.
2. Bilateral Cooperation with Netanyahu: Building a Strategic Alliance
A robust bilateral relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu heralds a new chapter in international cooperation. This alliance promises enhanced security support and the advancement of joint economic projects. The mutual commitment between the two nations boosts international confidence and strengthens their respective positions on the global political stage.
3. L.A. Dodgers & Racing Champions: Victory on All Fronts
Success isn’t confined to politics alone. The achievements of American sports teams are also shining brightly. With the L.A. Dodgers excelling on the baseball diamond and top racing champions clinching their titles, American sports have once again brought pride and reinforced the nation’s reputation for talent and competitive spirit.
4. Declining Gas and Energy Prices: A Boost for Consumers
One of the most welcomed developments is the reduction in gas and energy prices. As these costs come down, everyday consumers stand to benefit directly through lower living expenses. This achievement plays a crucial role in balancing consumer demand with maintaining a stable energy market.
5. Real Wages Up, Inflation Down: A Path to a More Resilient Economy
Economic adjustments have led to a noteworthy increase in real wages while effectively containing inflation. This isn’t just a statistical win—it’s a strong signal of improved living standards. The winning combination of rising incomes and lower inflation fosters a more secure and prosperous environment for citizens.
6. Billions in Investments by Companies: Driving Economic Innovation
With robust confidence in the country’s economic potential, major companies have invested billions in key projects. These investments not only generate thousands of new jobs but also accelerate technological innovation and modernization across various industries. Such progress is fundamental to the nation’s sustained economic development and recovery.
7. U.S. Coal Executive Order: Paving the Way for Sustainable Energy
The issuance of a new executive order on coal underscores the government’s commitment to harness domestic energy resources effectively and sustainably. This move is critical in ensuring national energy security while also nurturing the growth of the domestic energy industry.
8. Four Supreme Court Victories (SCOTUS Wins): Strengthening Legal Foundations
Legal battles have been won decisively with four major victories at the U.S. Supreme Court. These landmark rulings not only reinforce the country’s legal framework but also protect citizens’ rights and set important precedents in matters of personal freedoms and business operations.
9. Catch the MAGA Minute with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt
To cap off this spectacular week of wins, be sure to watch the “MAGA Minute” featuring Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. This concise and dynamic segment provides a rapid update on the most pressing issues of the day, ensuring that the public stays informed on all fronts.


White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt Begins Briefing with Prayer: “Lord Jesus, please give us the strength…”
In a poignant display of faith, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt paused for a quiet moment of prayer just before stepping up to the podium for her media briefing. As cameras rolled and reporters gathered, Leavitt bowed her head and softly intoned, “Lord Jesus, please give us the strength…” Her heartfelt invocation was captured in a brief video clip that quickly circulated online, resonating with many viewers and igniting discussions across social media platforms
A Moment of Reflection in a High-Pressure Environment
Stepping into one of the nation’s most scrutinized communication hubs, Leavitt’s prayer underscored a personal commitment to drawing strength from her Christian faith—a source of comfort amid the immense pressures and challenges of serving as a key spokesperson for the White House. For Leavitt, the brief moment of silent prayer is not just a personal ritual; it is a practice that helps her center her thoughts and prepares her to articulate complex policy messages confidently and compassionately in front of the press.
The Intersection of Faith and Leadership
Leavitt, noted for being the youngest White House press secretary in history, has often spoken about how her upbringing and strong religious convictions shape both her character and her professional approach. Raised in a devout Christian family, she credits her early experiences and disciplined Catholic education with instilling in her the values of hard work, humility, and perseverance. In every press briefing, whether discussing policy changes or answering challenging questions from reporters, her subtle yet visible displays of faith—like wearing a gold cross or beginning the day with prayer—serve as a reminder of the personal principles that guide her daily responsibilities.
During a recent interview, Leavitt explained, “Taking a moment to pray before I walk on stage gives me the clarity and confidence to represent our administration effectively. It’s a brief pause to ask for wisdom, strength, and the right words to convey our message.” This blend of spiritual reflection and professional duty appears to resonate with many of her supporters, who view her public act of faith as both courageous and sincere.
Social Media and Public Reaction
Leavitt’s act of starting her briefing in prayer quickly became a topic of discussion on platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Many viewers expressed admiration for the authenticity of her gesture, noting that her willingness to share a personal moment of spirituality humanizes the often impersonal world of political communication. Comments ranged from praise for her genuine expression of faith to observations about how the practice sets her apart in the modern political arena.
Critics, however, have also weighed in on the public display of religious practice by a government official, sparking debates about the place of personal faith in public life. Despite mixed reactions, Leavitt has remained steadfast in her beliefs. In various interviews, she has asserted that her faith forms the backbone of both her personal values and her commitment to her role at the White House.
A Reflection of Personal Strength
For Karoline Leavitt, the simple yet profound act of prayer is emblematic of a broader philosophy—one that merges personal conviction with the demands of high-stakes leadership. As she continues to serve in one of the nation’s most visible and challenging roles, her moment of prayer before stepping onto the briefing podium stands as a testament to the resilience and inner strength drawn from her spiritual beliefs.
Through her actions, Leavitt not only prepares herself to face the day’s challenges but also offers a subtle, non-partisan reminder that in times of uncertainty and turmoil, many find solace and fortitude in faith. Her prayer, “Lord Jesus, please give us the strength…”, echoes as a call for courage, clarity, and a steady resolve—qualities that are essential when navigating the complexities of modern governance.


Department Press Briefing – April 8, 2025: The Day When the Bullpen Became a Stage
It’s Tuesday, April 8, 2025, and if you were hoping for a quiet start to your day, think again. Tammy Bruce, our Department spokesperson with a flair for the dramatic (and a dash of mischief), hosted a press briefing that felt part international policy update, part backstage comedy show. Spoiler alert: the bullpen banter was as entertaining as it was informative.
A Hilarious Hello from the Bullpen
From the get‐go, Tammy set the tone: “Excellent. Excellent. Hi, everybody. Tuesday.” A quick note revealed that Monday was thrown out of the window because the White House was busier than a one‐armed paper hanger. As reporters chuckled over the mention of Andrea Mitchell (a familiar face) and the inexplicable “absence” of Matt Lee, one brave journalist even quipped that he hadn’t opened his mouth—clearly a contender for the “quietest question of the day.”
When pressed about a chance encounter with the Secretary of State (allegedly right outside the bathroom), Tammy casually attributed it to male privilege—a moment that had the bullpen laughing and reminded everyone that even high‐level diplomacy is not without its off‐script moments.
Key Announcements (and a Few Zingers)
In true “no nonsense” style (with a wink), Tammy relayed a series of high‐stakes updates:
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NATO and Defense Spending:
Secretary Rubio has been busy in Brussels, engaging NATO allies on an important topic: ramping up defense spending. According to the briefing, since the November election, four NATO allies (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland) along with an additional ten countries have stepped up their game in response to President Trump’s “we need more defense muscle” call. In Rubio’s own words, “We want NATO to be stronger. We want NATO to be more viable.” In other words, it’s all about flexing those defense budgets! -
Indo-Pacific Talks & China’s Coercive Trade:
While in Brussels, Secretary Rubio also met with Indo-Pacific partners to discuss the not-so-friendly trade practices of the Chinese Communist Party. If you thought global politics wasn’t spicy enough, consider this: our security, our prosperity, and our trade are hanging in balance until China decides to play fair. -
Earthquake Relief in Burma and Thailand:
On a serious note amid the banter, the United States has set aside $9 million to support earthquake relief in Burma. Experts have been deployed since early April to make sure emergency shelter, food, and clean water reach those in the hardest-hit areas. Even in a briefing where jokes fly freely, human relief is front and center. -
Middle East Moves with Israel and Iran:
President Trump reaffirmed his status as “Israel’s best friend” after a meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Among discussions on Gaza and hostage issues, the president also reiterated that Iran will never obtain a nuclear weapon—because, as he put it, “doing a deal would be preferable to doing the obvious.” (Yes, diplomatic ambiguity is still part of the script.)
And when asked about direct versus indirect talks with Iran (with the Iranians insisting on having things “indirect”), Tammy was quick to deflect, politely reminding everyone that the President knows best. (And if you disagree, well, sorry, that’s just how it goes around here.) -
Repatriation and Visa Updates:
Amid rapid-fire questions, Tammy briefly confirmed that U.S. citizens detained in Congo following the May 19, 2024 events have now been transferred to U.S. custody (with the Department of Justice handling further details).
On the visa front, she explained that while visas are revoked daily to secure the U.S. border, specifics remain classified—because some details are best left to bureaucratic privacy. -
USAID and World Food Program Funding:
Addressing concerns about recent cuts, Tammy clarified that 85 percent of USAID programs in partnership with the World Food Program remain intact. The cuts, she explained, were targeted mainly at projects in Yemen and Afghanistan, where funding was misused or even inadvertently helped extremist groups. No, USAID hasn’t abandoned its commitment to lifesaving aid—they’re just doing a bit of housekeeping. -
Last-Minute Q&A Shenanigans:
The press briefing ended with a flurry of questions ranging from upcoming U.S.-Russian logistical talks in Istanbul (strictly about embassy operations, not world peace) to whether the cancellation of student visas is based on “reckless driving citations” (the answer: privacy and process, folks!). When one reporter teased about the doubling of questions (two questions turned into three—and then even more), Tammy’s playful repartee kept the mood light even as serious subjects were discussed.
The Bullpen: Where Policy and Playfulness Collide
Perhaps the most memorable part of the briefing was the backstage commentary—about meeting Secretaries in hallways, male privilege in bullpen access, and even a gentle ribbing of reporters for their inevitable questions. For one fleeting moment, the rigid world of international diplomacy gave way to genuine, if unscripted, hilarity.
In summary, the April 8 press briefing was a whirlwind of major policy updates, international diplomacy, and offhand humor that reminded us all that even at the highest levels of government, the human (and sometimes quirky) element remains ever present. As Tammy Bruce concluded—and with a final call for further questions that might someday turn two into four—the press room buzzed with the promise of more surprises and plenty of laughs to come.


Secretary of State Marco Rubio Remarks to the Press at Fairmont le Manoir Richelieu, Charlevoix, Canada
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I mean, I just have a couple points and then I’ll answer your questions. Then I’m sure you’re dying to get home.
So first, I want to thank Canada. They did a great job of hosting us, and Foreign Minister Joly, who had to leave here. She’s going to go be sworn in, remain at her post, and she’s become a friend in the last few weeks as we’ve worked together. I knew her a little bit before but have gotten to know her now, obviously, in this role. They did a great job of hosting. It’s a beautiful place. And so, we’re grateful to them.
I think we have a very strong statement from the G7; hopefully you’ve gotten that by now and have been able to see it. Very strong statement on a number of issues of mutual concern. We touched those topics. It was a really good engagement, and obviously there will be some follow-up. And it sort of sets up for the leaders’ meeting later on this year, and we hope that will be equally productive.
But we felt really good about the statement. We worked hard on it. I think it reflects our points on a number of topics. And I would just say that one takeaway, you’re going to ask me questions about things that are going on in different bilateral relationships and so forth, but I think what’s important and something I said at the outset, which everybody agreed with is that we’re not going to allow the things we disagree on – and we’ll disagree on things – to keep us from working closely on the things we agree on, and there are a lot of those. And hopefully the statement reflects that and our actions will reflect that. And so, we feel really good about it.
The other announcement – and I think this is already reflected in the President’s statements – there was what we felt was a very positive and productive engagement yesterday with President Putin and Special Envoy Witkoff. Obviously, he is on his way back. He should be back, and hopefully we’ll convene this weekend. We’ll examine the Russian position more closely and determine – the President will then determine what the next steps are.
Suffice it to say, I think there is reason to be cautiously optimistic, but by the same token we continue to recognize this is a difficult and complex situation. It will not be easy. It will not be simple. But we certainly feel like we’re at least some steps closer to ending this war and bringing peace, but it’s still a long journey. It’s a journey of many steps. So – but this is positive momentum. Obviously, we’ll see what Russia and others are willing to do. It’s not just Russia, obviously; it has to be things acceptable to Ukraine.
But it’s been a good week on that front, but there’s a lot of work that remains to be done. But there’s reason to be cautiously optimistic, but we’ll know more once Special Envoy Witkoff, Ambassador Witkoff, returns and we have a chance to all convene and talk about it. And obviously, the President is the ultimate decider on the next steps for the United States.
Okay.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, do you trust Putin?
SECRETARY RUBIO: I think it’s an irrelevant question. I think in foreign policy you really – it’s not about trusting, it’s about actions. It’s about things that you do. So, in the end, on something like this you can’t just say you want peace, you have to do peace. And that’s true for both sides in any conflict, so – in any war or and in any engagement. So, I think ultimately, all these things – I would just encourage you guys, if we’re going to be serious about foreign policy, to sort of navigate away from some of the – this is not a reality show. This is not about personalities. This is very simple. You either do things or you don’t. There are things you are doing and things you’re not doing, and that’s what foreign policy is driven by and that’s how our decisions should be driven by.
So, unfortunately, in foreign policy, oftentimes you will have to work with – I’m not talking about President Putin in particular, I’m talking about generally – you will have to work with people you don’t like in foreign policy. And oftentimes, you will have disagreements with people you like. Sometimes you will have to figure out how to work together with nations that are not aligned with you on most issues, and in other cases you may find yourself unaligned on an issue with a nation that you work with very closely on a bunch of other things. That’s not just now true today, that has been true throughout the history of mankind and certainly the relations between nation states.
So, I think it’s important. I get that there’s this temptation to cover foreign policy the way we cover domestic policy and the way we cover other things in our society, but foreign policy is about nation states pursing what they have interpreted to be in their national interest and balancing that is what the art of diplomacy and the work of foreign policy is all about. So, we need to be sort of be mature and open-eyed and realistic without losing our idealism, without losing what we hope the world will look like and want to shape it and be a part of. But by the same token we have to make pragmatic decisions every single day and that’s not true today: that’s always been true.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, do you have any toplines from Mr. Witkoff? This was a late meeting. It went hours long. Is there anything that he shared? And then when you do examine the Russian position, that the comments by President Putin were quite convoluted and tough to decipher. I wonder if you think that he’s playing for time.
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I think you’re not going to – this is not something that’s going to play out in press conferences, as I stand at a press conference. But this is – these – again, I go back to the point I just made. When you want – if you think about, when you want – if you think about the most recent example of ceasefire negotiations, which was what happened in Gaza and with Israel and so forth, yeah, there were newspaper and there were articles and there were news stories about it, but ultimately you found out what the results were after the fact. And in the meantime, you saw public statements from different sides in regards to with what they were going to do. I think this will be no different.
So certainly, we’re not going to make our foreign policy decisions on the basis of what a leader says – simply says at a press conference or somebody puts up on social media posts because there’s some blogger close to the Kremlin or something like that. And likewise, I don’t think that they’re going to do that either. So, I would just say that this is going to play out the way things of this nature and caliber have traditionally and normally played out, and that is with the leaders of individual – of the countries involved speaking – not in front of the cameras, not in front of the media – but in these negotiations that happen and in these talks that happen.
So, I don’t want to – I’m not going to comment on what President Putin said other than he said he agreed with it in concept. So —
QUESTION: With lots of reservations.
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, again, he’d said that at a press conference. As I said, and I’ll go back to the phrase I used earlier, I think there is reason for cautious optimism that something good could come of this. Obviously, we’re going to wait for Ambassador Witkoff to return. He’s not back yet. We’re going to reconvene. Obviously, he – I spoke to him late last night, and he spoke to the President well before that. He may have spoken to other members of our team. I’ve been here. But ultimately, we’re going to get – we’re going to reconvene, and the President will have options available to him, and decisions will be made after that. But I don’t want to speculate or characterize anything beyond what I just said until we have had a chance to sit down with Ambassador Witkoff, who’s still overseas and in travel.
QUESTION: On that point, though, Mr. Secretary, because on the way here you said you were seeking unconditional acceptance. I mean, clearly Mr. Putin is adding a whole series of conditions. And also, the President says this should be —
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, how do you know he’s adding conditions?
QUESTION: From what he said publicly yesterday —
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I go back to the point I made. Let’s let this thing play through, okay? And then let’s figure out what – let me at least talk to – let’s let the team get together on the State side of this and talk to Ambassador Witkoff and go through some of this. Again, we’re not going to be involved in this process where I’m being asked to stake a position of U.S. policy on the basis of what someone said at a press conference yesterday.
So. let’s – we’re going to work through this thing in a normal, sane fashion. We’ll figure out where we are. Based on what I know at this moment with my conversation with Ambassador Witkoff – he’s not here yet – is we’re going to – I feel like there’s reason for cautious optimism. I think the President shared that today in his Truth Social post.
But there’s a lot of work – no, I have never told anybody that this is going to be easy, fast, simple, slam dunk. It’ll be hard. But it’s important work. We have – we are in a better place today, I hope, I believe – we have reason to believe – than we were a week ago. But we still have a long ways to go. It could come together pretty quickly if everyone aligns, but I don’t know how aligned we are yet. That’s what we’re going to – about to find out.
So, cautious optimism is about the best phraseology I can use at this moment based on what we know. We’re going to keep working on it.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary —
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, the statement that you —
SECRETARY RUBIO: Hold on, I’ll get to everybody. I promise.
QUESTION: It’s just the President – the fundamental element of the President’s proposal was it should be an immediate ceasefire. Should —
SECRETARY RUBIO: Sure, and that’s the proposal.
QUESTION: And so, the question is: How long does Putin have?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, in terms of long – for what?
QUESTION: How long does – because there are those who say he’s playing for time, that this is adding conditions, adding —
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, this war has been going on for three years, so I think the question – and with no end in sight at this point without this intervention by President Trump. So, I think the question is – is – the fundamental question really is not how long. I think the question is: Are we actually moving towards a ceasefire or is this a delay tactic? I’m not going to answer that because I can’t characterize that for you right now. I think we’ll know sooner rather than later, and a lot of that will be based on the conversation Ambassador Witkoff had yesterday and other factors that are in play, but we’re not there yet. But we will get there.
We want it to be, and the President wanted it to be, yesterday and the day before, but we’re certainly at least talking about peace for the first time in three years. Now we’ll have to figure out how close we truly are, and that’s going to take some time, and Witkoff’s not here yet, so – here meaning stateside.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary —
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, the joint statement says that there is a need for robust and credible security arrangements for Ukraine. How would you define that based on your conversations here at the G7? What are robust and credible security arrangements?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, that’s to be determined by the negotiations that – here’s what I want to encourage everybody to do: Bifurcate two things, okay? The ceasefire and the conditions for everybody to stop shooting at each other. What will it take to get everybody to stop shooting at each other and then moving to a negotiating table on settling the war with finality? Two separate processes.
Process number one is: What do we need from both sides in order to stop the shooting and the fighting, so that you can get to a negotiating table? That’s the second phase. As part of that second phase, there will obviously – every country in the world has a right to security, has a right to defend itself, has a right to protect its territory. That will have to be part of that conversation and it will have to be something that involves not simply the views of the United States, but other countries that are involved.
And I repeated this over and over again: The European Union has imposed significant sanctions on the Russian Federation and on individuals inside of Russia. So, they will have to be consulted and they’ll have to be engaged in this process and so forth. So, let’s not predetermine or start putting everything ahead of itself here. The process of what long-term security means for Ukraine, that will be something that Ukraine will obviously have to agree with and that will have to be worked through as part of that second phase. But let’s – we can’t get to the second phase until we get through the first phase. We think it’s very difficult, very difficult to negotiate lasting peace and security in the midst of an all-out war. And so, we have to try to lower that so that it makes it possible to move to phase two of this.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, the statement that you issued a little while ago also notes that the G7 discussed ways to impose costs on Russia, should that become necessary, to include caps on oil prices, additional support for Ukraine, using seized sovereign Russian assets. Was there – but it said you discussed them, you didn’t agree on them. But is there any agreement within the G7 on these particular measures, just what they should be in what order, and what might trigger them? And why did you discuss them if you’re so cautiously optimistic?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, first of all, it was – they were raised, because the Europeans have their own set of sanctions and new ones they would like to impose. And certainly, the United States is not a member of the EU. We don’t have a vote at the EU. And so, whatever they determine and decide to do, we can’t control it. They asked us for our input. We’ll give it to them, but they – that’s not what’s happening right now. So yes, it was discussed. As far as U.S. sanctions are concerned, the President has made clear – the President on two occasions in the past week has reminded everybody that the U.S. has these options available to it, but he doesn’t want to do that right now because he’s in the hopes of attracting people, both sides, to a process where we can negotiate peace. And I’ll leave it at that. There really is nothing to add to that at this point.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, under —
SECRETARY RUBIO: Go on. Hold on one second. Yes.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, the joint statement reaffirms unwavering support for Ukrainians’ territorial integrity, which has been largely absent in various U.S. statements since January 20th. What led you to subscribe to this this time?
SECRETARY RUBIO: But I don’t – that’s not a change in public policy. The United States has never said that Russia – I’ve never heard President Trump say that Russia has a right to take all of Ukraine and do whatever they want there. So that’s not inconsistent with that statement. That is separate from the issue we face today, and that is that as it stands today, there is a war going on that has no military solution to it. Neither Russia nor Ukraine can achieve its maximalist military aims.
The only way to end this war is through a process of negotiations. Negotiations – be it in business, in commerce, or in geopolitics – involves both sides giving something, both sides making concessions. That’s just obvious. I’m not saying – I don’t think that should be sort of a news-making statement. That’s the reality of any conversations that exist in order to end wars, is that there has to be some level of concessions. What those concessions are remains to be seen. That’ll have to be part of the negotiation. But it’s not going to be helpful to enter into those negotiations, making blanket statements that may give an excuse for one side or the other not to participate in it. So we’ll have to get to that stage where these things are discussed. And ultimately, both – whatever happens, both sides will have to agree to it, and that’s true of any negotiation when you’re trying to end a war.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary?
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, I understand your point about this not being a reality show or personalities. Ukraine – or anything else for that matter – your boss has, shall we say, a rather strong personality. And I’m wondering, in light of that and his repeated comments about Canada becoming – or should be the 51st state, the whole tariff situation which intensified as we were on our way here after your – the big announcement in Jeddah; did that complicate your discussions at all? Was it —
SECRETARY RUBIO: It never came up once in our – I mean, obviously with the foreign minister of Canada it has, but it was not a topic, it was not on our agenda. I told you that would not be discussed. The tariffs were.
QUESTION: Yeah.
SECRETARY RUBIO: So, let me explain on the tariffs. This is important for everybody to understand. This keeps being characterized as a hostile move against our allies. These are global tariffs on steel, on aluminum, on autos, on semiconductors eventually. The President stated this. And then a global – in April, the intention to put tariffs, assuming that the study comes back and so forth. But what they’ve discussed is a global reciprocal tariff. Understand what that means. That means basically whatever some country charges us, that’s what we’re going to charge them.
The goal the President has made very clear is he wants to reset the baseline of international trade, which he believes – and I agree – is unfair to the United States. This is not meant as a hostile move against Japan or Germany or anybody else. This is not about – this is about balancing and fairness in trade. So, he wants to reset the baseline. And once that baseline is reset, then you can enter into bilateral negotiations with individual countries about changes that can be made to our trade, our bilateral trade, so that it’s fair for both sides. That’s his goal. In his first administration, the President did tariffs as well. What he was disturbed by in hindsight is the fact that they included a bunch of exemptions that basically made them meaningless. And so, what he wants to get back to is basically fairness in trade. It’s as simple as that.
QUESTION: Okay, so —
SECRETARY RUBIO: And we want to charge other countries what they charge us. And then, ultimately, once the baseline is reset – and then in addition to that, there are industries that are critical to the United States and to our domestic security and our future. And he’s identified them: steel, aluminum, semiconductors, automobiles. These are things that we believe are in our interest to have a domestic capacity, and we have to protect these industries from what we feel is subsidization and unfair competition from abroad. This is not meant to be hostile towards anybody. It is meant to be friendly and supportive of our foreign – of our national interest as a country. Once the baseline of trade is reset in a way that’s fair and equitable, then we can engage in the process of bilateral negotiations with individual countries, including our allies, to set up a more sustainable and fair long-term trade arrangement between our respective countries.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, the —
QUESTION: So, this is about Canada and your meeting with Foreign Minister Joly: Do you understand why the Canadians are taking such umbrage at these comments coming from the President? Is that something that you —
SECRETARY RUBIO: She’s – the Canadian Government has made their position, how they feel about it clear. The President has made his argument as to why he thinks Canada would be better off joining the United States from a – for economic purposes. There’s a disagreement between the President’s position and the position of the Canadian Government. I don’t think that’s a mystery coming in, and it wasn’t a topic of conversation, because that’s not what this summit was about.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, the Alien Enemies —
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary? Mr. Secretary, you said that the tariff policy was not hostile. However, President Trump yesterday in his social media post said that the EU previously had been hostile and abusive towards the United States. How do you square that? And secondly, is he serious when he’s talking about the 51st state being Canada?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I’m – I’ve already answered the question about Canada.
QUESTION: No, but is he serious?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah.
QUESTION: Do you take him seriously?
SECRETARY RUBIO: We’re not discussing that here today because that’s not what the purpose of this meeting is about. As far as the question that you’re asking me about hostility, yeah, the – look at the EU. Okay. The EU has a GDP basically comparable to that of the United States. Their composition of their economy is similar to ours. These are not developing countries; these are developed countries. And yet they have a significant trade surplus with the United States even though our economies are pretty much the same. These are not low-wage countries. That’s a problem. All the President is saying is we need to equalize treatment. Whatever they do to us, we need to do to them, in addition to pointing to certain sectors that we have to protect. Who can argue against the idea that if some country charges us X to export our products, we should charge them the same?
I get it. If you’re a country or the EU that’s benefiting from the status quo, you feel it is hostile to change the status quo because it’s to your benefit. The problem is the President of the United States is looking out for the United States – both the national security and in economic relations. We will reset the basis of our trade relationship, and then we can enter into negotiations for something that’s enduring and fair to both sides. That’s what the President seeks to do and that’s what – it begins by resetting, in a reciprocal way, the amount of tariffs we charge one another in our trade relations.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, I take – I take your —
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, the Alien Enemies Act of 1798?
QUESTION: If I can follow up. Mr. Secretary, I know that we’re not speaking about Canada becoming the 51st state at this meeting, but I’m asking you now: Do you consider what the President has said about Canada becoming the 51st state – is he serious?
SECRETARY RUBIO: I’ll tell you how that came about. Okay. He’s in a meeting with Trudeau, and Trudeau basically says that if the U.S. imposes tariffs on Canada, Canada couldn’t survive as a nation-state, at which point the President said, well, then you should become a state. And that’s where this began. That said, the President has made an argument for why – he says he loves Canada. He says – he made an argument for why Canada would be better off joining the United States from an economic perspective and the like. He’s made that argument repeatedly, and I think it stands for itself.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, the President —
QUESTION: Is it – is it counterproductive?
QUESTION: The Trump Administration is expected to invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. Have to dust that off; a lot of people not familiar with it. Can you help us understand how the Trump Administration plans to use these powers?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, those are – that’s a question for DHS. It’s not a question for us. What I can tell you is, from our perspective, unrelated to that, is that we will continue to look for people that we would never have allowed into this country on student visas had we known they were going to do what they’ve done. But now that they’ve done it, we’re going to get rid of them. And we are continuing to look for that, and so in the days to come, you should expect more visas will be revoked as we identify people that we should never have allowed in because they lied to us.
When they said they were coming here to be students, they didn’t say they were coming here to occupy university buildings and vandalize them and tear them apart, and hold campuses hostage. If they had told us that, we would never have given them a student visa. Now that they’ve done it, we will revoke those visas. And as the days go on, every time we have a chance to revoke them, we will, because it’s not in the national interest of the United States for them to be here.
Let’s wrap up, guys, so we can get on.
QUESTION: G7 statement on China —
SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah.
QUESTION: The G7 joint statement has some very strong language on China. Could you please describe the sentiment of the discussion behind closed door? And also, do you have anything on a potential meeting between President Trump and CCP Secretary General Xi Jinping? Will that be in China or in the United States? Thank you.
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I have no – I know – I think the President at some point will meet – they will meet. I don’t know when that’ll be. I don’t know if there are – I don’t believe there are any plans currently for that to happen, but I’m sure it will happen at some point. The President engaged with him in his first term, and I expect he will do so again. And he should. These are the leaders of two big, important, powerful countries, and the leaders of powerful countries – whether they agree on things or not – should communicate for the safety and well-being of the world.
As far as the statement is concerned, I think it reflects a growing acknowledgment that the Chinese Communist Party has pursued both economic and foreign policies that allow them to benefit from all the good things about the global order but ignore all of its responsibilities in ways that leave us in danger of being – not just us, but the broader world – of being overly dependent on China for critical supply chains, for rare earth minerals, for key technologies. In the case of Europe, you’ll continue to hear a lot of frustration on their part that over – Chinese overproduction, for example, of electric vehicles are dumped into their economies. And so, guess what they have done? They have imposed tariffs. You know what Canada did? They have imposed tariffs on China as well. Because that’s what countries do when they feel like they’re being treated unfairly in trade, in commerce. And we support them in doing that. We think that was the right choice in that regard, and we have imposed tariffs on China as well.
All right.
QUESTION: Is there an offramp —
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary —
SECRETARY RUBIO: Who had a —
QUESTION: Secretary Rubio?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Yes, sir.
QUESTION: Would the U.S. be open to an agreement with Hamas to get American hostages released separate from the Israeli hostages, like including Edan Alexander, getting released?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I think our priority always – as the U.S. Government is always – we care about all the hostages. We want all the hostages released. We believe they should all be released, okay? And that – by the way, when you talk about hostages, we’re also talking about bodies. And these trades are being made, and they’re ridiculous trades. Come on. Four hundred people for three. These are nuts. And on top of that, you see the condition these people are being released in. This is a – think about what we’re talking about here. I mean, we’re sitting around as the world is sort of accepting that it’s normal and okay for you to go into a place, kidnap babies, kidnap teenagers, kidnap people that have nothing to do with any wars, that are not soldiers, that are not anything, and taking them and putting them in tunnels for almost a year and a half. And we’re acting like this is a normal exchange, this is a normal thing that happens. This is an outrage. So, they should all be released.
So, I’m not going to comment on what we’re going to accept or not accept other than all of us, the whole world, should continue to say that what Hamas has done is outrageous. It’s ridiculous. It’s sick. It’s disgusting. It should never have happened, and we shouldn’t accept it as normal, as a normal negotiation. We’re just dealing with some savages. That’s it. These are bad people, terrible people, and we need to treat them as such.
QUESTION: So is —
MS BRUCE: One more question.
SECRETARY RUBIO: But that said, we want all the hostages out.
QUESTION: Is there an offramp for this trade war?
QUESTION: (Inaudible.) Mr. Secretary, there was a report that was required at the State Department as one of the first executive orders asking for countries to be identified that had insufficient vetting. Has that report gone over to the White House yet?
SECRETARY RUBIO: I’m not – I’m sure if it – you mean we had a deadline to meet that? I’m sure we’ve met the deadline, but I’ll have to take that back. We can get you an answer for that specifically.
MS BRUCE: Yeah, we’ll get it.
SECRETARY RUBIO: All right.
QUESTION: Is there an offramp for the trade war, Mr. Secretary?
QUESTION: Can I ask a follow-up about territorial integrity?
SECRETARY RUBIO: About what?
QUESTION: Territorial integrity for Ukraine.
SECRETARY RUBIO: Yeah, you already asked that.
QUESTION: Yeah, so you said that Ukraine would have to make concessions, both sides —
SECRETARY RUBIO: So will Russia. Right.
QUESTION: What is your description of territorial integrity when it comes to Ukraine? Is it pre-2014?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Guys, again, that’s what – we’re going to have – let’s please – I get it, but let me – let me just put it to you this way. There’s two processes here.
Process number one is: How can we get shooting to stop? Because we think it’s very difficult to negotiate peace while there’s still shooting going on, and attacks. What can we do to get it to stop? To the extent possible, how can we get as much hostility as possible to stop so we can get to phase two of this process, which is negotiating these things that you’re asking me about?
I’m just stating the obvious. When people sit down and negotiate an end to wars, there’s usually a give and take. What that give and take is depends on the parties that are at the table. We’re not going to predetermine anything. But that’s what it’s going to take to end the war.
If there’s an offramp on the – it’s not about an offramp on the – there’s not a trade war. This is the United States is resetting its trade relations globally, okay, and resetting relations globally to a level of equilibrium, to a level of reciprocity. And then once that’s reset, we can then engage in the process of bilateral talks with Japan, with the UK, with France, with Germany, with the EU, whoever, to figure out, okay, how do we reset our trade relations so that it’s fair. Because right now it’s not fair, it’s as simple as that. The President’s stated that repeatedly.
And so these are the steps that it takes to get us to that point. You can’t – if you do it the other way, which is let’s renegotiate our – why would they renegotiate their trade relationship with the United States if the status quo is beneficial to them? Why would they – why would someone give up something that’s good for them? You have to make it fair, and then you can negotiate out how do we get to a place that’s mutually beneficial, because the current piece of it is just not sustainable. And —
QUESTION: (Inaudible.)
QUESTION: (Inaudible) relationship – how is your relationship with Elon Musk?
SECRETARY RUBIO: Thank you, guys. Thank you.
MS BRUCE: All right. Thank you everyone. Thank you.

