Wife of mistakenly deported Maryland man reacts to Trump, Bukele's refusal to bring back her husband

The wife of a mistakenly deported Maryland man has reacted to comments made by the Trump administration and El Salvador President Nayib Bukele about her husband at the White House today.

Trump aides today said they had no plans to order the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia. Meanwhile, Bukele, said he does not plan to release him from the El Salvadoran jail he was deported to.

Jennifer Vasquez Sura, Abrego Garcia's wife, told the New York Times, that the Trump and Bukele administrations "continue to play political games with his life — leaving my children longing for their father and our family separated from one another during this sacred time," she said, referring to the Easter holiday.

"My heart is heavy, but I hold on to hope and the strength of those around me."

Bernie Sanders says Maryland dad 'must not be allowed to rot in an El Salvadorian jail'

Sen. Bernie Sanders has slammed the Trump administration's refusal to return Maryland father Kilmar Abrego Garcia who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador.

In a statement on his website, Sanders, said, "Kilmar Abrego Garcia is an innocent man and the father of three. He must not be allowed to rot in an El Salvadorian jail based on lies and defiance of our Constitution. He must be brought home immediately."

The Supreme Court ordered the administration to "facilitate" the return of Abrego Garcia.

But on Monday, during a meeting between President Trump and El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, Trump's aides claimed they did not need to arrange the return of Abrego Garcia or free him from the El Salvadoran maximum security prison.

"This is just another step forward in Trump's move toward authoritarianism," Sanders wrote. "Fight back!"

WATCH: Trump suggests deporting American-born criminals to El Salvador

KeyBanc upgrades Apple stock, says tariff exemption 'best case scenario'

Investment bank KeyBanc has upgraded Apple stock after President Donald Trump announced that tech such as smartphones and computers were exempted from "reciprocal" tariffs.

KeyBanc analyst Brandon Nispel called it the "best case scenario" for Apple.

"With the worst case scenario of continuing 'tit-for-tat' trade war escalation likely no longer in play and the exception on smartphones from tariffs, we find it difficult to argue for further downside," Nispel told CNN.

KeyBanc upgraded Apple stock from "underweight" to a neutral "sector weight."

However, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggested on Sunday that the exemptions could be temporary.

Trump to start searching for replacement for Fed Chair Jerome Powell in fall

President Donald Trump will start his search for a replacement for Fed Chair Jerome Powell this fall, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

Powell, who was appointed by Trump during his first term, will have his term as chair end in May 2026.

Trump frequently criticized Powell since his appointment and made it clear he does not plan to keep him on after his term ends.

Trump's polling problem: Voters no longer blame economy on Biden

A growing number of Americans are blaming President Donald Trump, rather than former President Joe Biden, for the state of the economy, according to two recent polls.

Trump emphasized his economic plan on the campaign trail, pledging to bring down inflation faced by Americans after the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020. However, economists warn that his plans, including tariffs, could lead to higher prices for U.S. consumers, and his efforts at implementing the policy caused stocks to drop.

The economy remains a top issue for most voters, and Trump's handling of it will be on Americans' minds heading into the 2026 midterms, as well as a handful of off-year gubernatorial races later this year. Democrats are hoping that growing dissatisfaction with his economic plans can carry them to victory in key races.

A new CBS News/YouGov poll showed that Americans are increasingly critical of Trump's handling of the economy, and that more people are blaming him than a month earlier. It surveyed 2,410 U.S. adults from April 8 to 11.

Read in full from Andrew Stanton on Newsweek.

Judge denies bail for man accused of arson attack on Gov. Josh Shapiro's home

A judge has denied bail for a man accused of setting fire to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's home.

Cody Balmer, who was pictured sticking his tongue out as he arrived for his arraignment, is charged with attempted murder, aggravated arson, burglary, terrorism and other offenses, the Dauphin County District Attorney's Office announced on Monday.

Authorities said the 38-year-old scaled an iron security fence and eluded state troopers before breaking into the governor's residence and setting fire to it in the early hours of Sunday.

Cody Balmer's mother says she warned police before attack on Shapiro's home

Cody Balmer's mother, Christie Balmer, told CBS News that she reached out to four different police departments, but "couldn't get anybody to help" before her son was charged with setting fire to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's residence on Sunday.

Christie Balmer also told CBS News, "So he was mentally ill, went off his meds, and this is what happened."

Cody Balmer later turned himself in to police and admitted to "harboring hatred toward Governor Shapiro," according to a probable cause affidavit.

Cody Balmer also told officials that if Shapiro found him inside the home, he "would have beaten him with his hammer," the affidavit said.

Shapiro spoke to FBI Director Kash Patel who said he will provide resources for the investiga

Read in full from Gabe Whisnant on Newsweek.

Man accused of setting fire to Shapiro's home arrives for arraignment

The suspect for the arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's home, was pictured arriving for his arraignment hearing on Monday.

Cody Balmer was pictured sticking his tongue out as he arrived at court, in handcuffs, accompanied by deputies.

The 38-year-old, of Harrisburg, is charged with attempted murder, aggravated arson, burglary, terrorism and other offenses, the Dauphin County District Attorney's Office announced on Monday. Authorities said Balmer scaled an iron security fence and eluded state troopers before breaking into the governor's residence and setting fire to it in the early hours of Sunday.

Auto shares surged Monday after Trump signals tariffs relief

Shares of American automakers jumped on Monday afternoon after President Trump signaled he might provide some relief from his 25% auto tariffs.

Shares of Ford rose by nearly 5% by close of trading, recovering from an earlier 1% drop, while General Motors was also up by nearly 4%.

Chrysler-parent company Stellantis, which fell by 1.5% by midday, jumped 6% after Trump's comments.

The president said today he was "looking for something to help some of the car companies," that "need a little bit of time" to shift manufacturing to the United States.

Mohsen Mahdawi's location unknown after ICE arrest

Lawyers for Mohsen Mahdawi, the Palestinian Columbia University who was detained when he arrived for his naturalization test, said they still don't know where he is.

"We have not received confirmation as to his whereabouts despite numerous attempts to locate him," his attorney, Luna Droubi, said. "We have filed a habeas petition in the District of Vermont and have sought a temporary restraining order restraining the government from removing him from the jurisdiction or from the country."

Mahdawi, a green holder for ten years who led pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia last year, was arrested by ICE on Monday morning in Colchester, Vermont.

Schumer called for the immediate return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has called for the immediate release and return of deported Maryland dad Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

"The law is clear, due process was grossly violated, and the Supreme Court has clearly spoken that the Trump administration must facilitate and effectuate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia," Schumer said.

"He should be returned to the U.S. immediately.

"Due process and the rule of law are cornerstones of American society for citizens and noncitizens alike and not to follow that is dangerous and outrageous. A threat to one is a threat to all."

Schumer's comments come after the Trump administration revealed they had no intention of trying to get Abrego Garcia returned to the U.S.

WATCH: Moment ICE detains Pro-Palestinian Columbia student at citizenship interview

What Donald Trump has said about raising minimum wage as new bill proposed

As a new bill seeks to raise the federal minimum wage to $17 an hour by 2030, attention has turned once again to where President Donald Trump stands on the issue.

The "Raise the Wage Act of 2025," proposed on April 8, could affect more than 20 million workers nationwide. But the president has previously expressed skepticism, citing concerns about small businesses.

The latest bill, proposed by Representative Bobby Scott, a Virginia Democrat, and Senator Bernie Sanders, a Vermont independent who caucuses with the Democratic Party, proposes to gradually increase the federal minimum wage from its current level of $7.25 an hour—a rate unchanged since 2010.

If passed, it would raise wages incrementally to $17 by 2029 and thereafter tie increases to median wage growth, aimed at keeping minimum wage on par with labor market trends.

Read in full from Kate Nalepinski on Newsweek.

Stocks including Apple close higher after surprise tariff exemption

Apple led the "Magnificent Seven" stocks in gains on Monday after Trump announced temporary tariff exemptions for tech products over the weekend.

Wall Street saw gains across the board by close of trading after a somewhat choppy day, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 312.08 points, or 0.78%, while the Nasdaq rose 0.64% and the S&P 500 added 0.79%.

Apple stock rose over 2%, while Dell rose by close to 4%.

The exemptions, announced on Friday, mean that consumer electronics, smartphones, networking equipment, computers and computing products will be excluded from reciprocal tariffs.

However, the Trump administration has suggested that these exemptions will not be permanent.

President Trump also pushed back at accusations that he was backing down over tariffs. On Truth Social, he said that the tech products are still "subject to the existing 20% Fentanyl Tariffs, and they are just moving to a different Tariff 'bucket.'"

Palestinian Columbia student detained by ICE during naturalization test

A Palestinian student and activist at Columbia University has been detained while appearing for their naturalization test at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in Colchester, Vermont.

Mohsen Mahdawi, a green card holder for ten years, was set to appear at the field center at 11 a.m. ET to take the test as part of his citizenship process.

But after he arrived, he seen being escorted by ICE officials to a motorcade of vehicles, and was whisked to an unknown location.

Cyrus Mehta, one of attorneys a representing Mahdawi, told The Washington Post, "He was clearly eligible for naturalization. He met all the requirements for citizenship, and he had applied for it last year, and he was scheduled for an interview, and he should have been naturalized.

"There's no need to detain a lawful permanent resident incommunicado."

Harvard defies Trump amid battle over billions in funding

Harvard University defied the Trump Administration amid ongoing demands that the university discontinue its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, reform student discipline policies, and implement a mask ban, among other requests.

Newsweek reached out to the White House via email Monday afternoon for comment.

President Donald Trump and his administration have ripped into Ivy League institutions like Harvard and Columbia in the wake of demonstrations and protests amid Israel's war with Hamas.

The Trump administration has accused the Ivy League universities of allowing antisemitism on campus grounds. The Trump administration also initially withheld $400 million in federal funds from Columbia and said it would not reinstate the funding if the school did not make changes to its policies.

Columbia was the epicenter of campus protests last year amid the war in the Gaza Strip. Students across the country demanded that universities and the federal government sever ties with the Israeli government to protest its military actions in Gaza.

Columbia ultimately caved to Trump's demands last month and announced new actions it is taking.

Read the full story by Anna Commander on Newsweek.

Newsom signs bill to close $2.8 billion Medi-Cal gap, preserve coverage for 15 million

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Monday to help close a $2.8 billion shortfall in the state's Medicaid program, known as Medi-Cal, ensuring coverage through June for about 15 million low-income residents, including immigrants.

The funding is part of a broader effort to address a $6.2 billion budget gap in the program, which ballooned after the state expanded Medi-Cal to all low-income adults regardless of immigration status. The expansion, which began last year, has cost more than projected due to unexpectedly high enrollment.

To cover payments for March, the state borrowed $3.44 billion from its general fund, the maximum allowed under current law. The new funding will unlock matching federal dollars, but officials warn the situation is not sustainable. Cost-cutting proposals for next year include ending pandemic-era enrollment protections.

Despite budget concerns, Newsom and other Democratic leaders have said they do not plan to roll back coverage for immigrants. However, the financial strain has prompted Republican lawmakers to demand a Medi-Cal audit, blaming mismanagement for the shortfall.

Federal Medicaid cuts proposed by Congress could further pressure California, which relies on Washington for more than half its Medi-Cal funding.

Biden to speak at disability advocacy conference in first public address since leaving office

Former President Joe Biden will deliver his first public speech since stepping down from the presidency at a national disability advocacy conference in Chicago on Tuesday.

The event is hosted by Advocates, Counselors and Representatives for the Disabled. Biden is expected to touch on issues related to Social Security, as concerns grow over workforce reductions at the agency.

Also scheduled to appear are former Senators Roy Blunt and Debbie Stabenow, along with former Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley, who previously led the Social Security Administration.

WATCH: Trump accuses Iran of 'tapping' US along on nuclear deal

DC mayor warns of major cuts without congressional budget fix

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said Monday that the city is raising its budget by the maximum allowed under federal law, but still faces a $410 million shortfall this fiscal year unless Congress intervenes.

Bowser said she sent a letter to congressional appropriators alerting them to the financial strain. Her announcement follows the House adjourning for a two-week recess without addressing a $1.1 billion gap in the city's budget, despite President Trump's calls for action.

"We believed that the fix would happen, and we wouldn't be running around planning for cuts," Bowser said during a news conference.

The city is boosting its budget by 6%, but Bowser warned that "no options" are off the table to make up the remaining gap. Her senior staff said that while the budget law change requires local council approval, it does not need congressional sign-off. Cuts could affect a wide range of city services, including public safety.

AP reporters barred from Oval Office despite court order

A reporter and photographer from The Associated Press were denied access to a White House press event on Monday, despite a court order that was supposed to grant them entry.

The federal ruling, which took effect the same day, barred the Trump administration from excluding the AP over its refusal to change the name it uses for the Gulf of Mexico. The administration is appealing the decision and argues it doesn't have to comply until that process is over.

A hearing on the appeal is set for Thursday. In the meantime, the AP says it's pushing for immediate access.

Meta faces historic antitrust trial over Instagram and WhatsApp acquisitions

A landmark antitrust trial against Meta Platforms Inc. began Monday, with the Federal Trade Commission aiming to force the company to divest Instagram and WhatsApp — two major acquisitions made over a decade ago. The trial marks one of the most significant efforts yet to challenge the power of Big Tech.

FTC attorney Daniel Matheson said in opening arguments that Meta used its monopoly power to secure profits at the expense of consumer choice and innovation. He argued that Meta acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to neutralize competitive threats and protect its dominance in the social media space.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to testify, along with other company witnesses, as the trial unfolds.

Originally filed in 2020 under Trump's administration, the lawsuit accuses Meta — then Facebook — of suppressing competition in violation of antitrust laws. The outcome will serve as a major test of the FTC's ability to rein in tech consolidation.

OPINION: Former Trump campaign adviser: Don't believe the anti-tariff hysteria

On April 2, 2025, President Donald J. Trump didn't just unveil tariffs—he sparked a revolution.

In the Rose Garden, surrounded by proud union workers, the president proclaimed America's "Liberation Day," smashing the free-trade orthodoxy that had devastated our middle class and shipped our jobs overseas. These tariffs aren't some meek adjustment; they're a rebuke to the smug elites who've hawked "free trade" as our savior while raking in the profits. Liberation Day was the moment we stopped groveling and started winning—the day a nation gutted by betrayal entered a golden era of American greatness.

The old establishment is imploding, and it's a joy to behold. In the week since the tariff announcement, we've seen countless end-of-days headlines about a "global trade war"; prophecies of ruin from ivory-tower economists; and Wall Street traders dumping stocks, only to buy them back and then dump them again. Even some spineless Republicans in Congress—who should be carrying President Trump's flag—are trembling instead of cheering his fight for America's soul. It's a pitiful display from people who've sold our country down the river for years. They don't get it, and they never will.

Read in full from former Trump campaign adviser, Mark Serrano, also founder of ProActive Strategies, on Newsweek.

Dan Caine sworn in as Joint Chiefs chairman after Trump signs waiver

Air Force Gen. Dan Caine was officially sworn in as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Saturday, following President Donald Trump's approval of a legal waiver needed to fill the post. Caine replaces Air Force Gen. CQ Brown Jr., who was dismissed by Trump in February as part of a shakeup targeting officers seen as supporters of diversity and equity efforts.

Caine, a decorated F-16 pilot with deep experience across military and intelligence roles, is the first officer brought out of retirement to serve as chairman. Though he never served as a service chief or combatant commander—a legal requirement for the role—Trump signed a waiver declaring his appointment in the national interest.

The Senate confirmed Caine's nomination in a 60-25 vote early Friday. The general, whose call sign is "Raizin," has more than 2,800 flight hours and previously served at the CIA before retiring last year as a three-star general.

Caine began work at the Pentagon over the weekend, though the Joint Chiefs' website had not yet reflected his new role by Monday. A formal White House ceremony is expected later this week.

Trump suggests he may make yet another change to tariffs

President Donald Trump has suggested that he may pause or adjust his auto tariffs to give the industry time to adapt to his 25% tariffs.

"I'm looking at something to help some of the car companies with it," Trump told reporters at the Oval Office on Monday.

He added that automakers needed more time to relocate production from Canada, Mexico and other places.

"And they need a little bit of time because they're going to make them here, but they need a little bit of time. So I'm talking about things like that."

Trump considers short-term tariff break for auto companies

said Monday he is considering a temporary exemption from his 25% auto tariffs to help car companies adjust to new sourcing requirements.

"I'm looking at something to help some of the car companies where they're switching to parts that were made in Canada, Mexico and other places and they need a little bit more time," Trump said. "They're going to make them here, but they need a little bit more time."

The tariffs are expected to raise the cost of cars by thousands of dollars, as no vehicle is currently made entirely with U.S.-produced parts. Most include components from Canada, Mexico, or overseas.

Trump also pointed to flexibility on other imports. U.S. Customs and Border Protection confirmed Friday that electronics like smartphones and computers are exempt from the reciprocal tariffs, including a 145% minimum rate on Chinese goods.

"I'm a very flexible person," Trump said. "I speak to Tim Cook, I help Tim Cook... I don't want to hurt anybody."

Air Force Gen. Dan Caine sworn in as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Air Force Gen. Dan Caine has been sworn in as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Caine takes over the role almost two months after President Trump fired former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Charles "CQ" Brown, a four-star Air Force general.

Trump gave no reason for the firing of Brown but it was during a purge of military members believed to support diversity and equity programs.

Caine took over the role Saturday and will serve the remainder of the four-year term of Brown.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen seeks meeting with Salvadoran president on Maryland man's deportation

Sen. Chris Van Hollen has requested a meeting with El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, who is currently in the U.S. for his meeting with President Trump, to discuss the Maryland father mistakenly deported to El Salvador.

The senator said he "urgently" requested the meeting to discuss Kilmar Abrego Garcia, in a letter to Milena Mayorga, El Salvador's ambassador to the U.S.

"I have met with Mr. Abrego Garcia's wife, mother and brother and, as you can imagine, they are extremely worried about his health, safety, and continued illegal confinement, as am I," Van Hollen said in the letter.

Van Hollen even said he was willing to go to El Salvador personally if he was not returned soon.

Trump "all for" deporting American-born criminals to El Salvador

President Donald Trump has said he's "all for" sending American-born criminals to El Salvador.

Speaking alongside El Salvador President Nayib Bukele from the Oval Office of the White House on Monday, Trump said he'd "like to go a step further" and to go after "home grown criminals".

When asked if that meant deporting American criminals to the country's max security prison, Trump responded, "If they're criminals... yeah, yeah that includes them

"I'm talking about violent people. I'm talking about really bad people, really bad people — every bit as bad as the ones coming in

He added that General Pam Bondi is studying the laws to find out if there is a legal way to send American citizens overseas.

Nvidia to make AI supercomputers, chips in US amid Trump tariff pressure

Nvidia announced Monday that it will begin manufacturing its artificial intelligence supercomputers in the United States for the first time.

The tech giant revealed plans to use more than one million square feet of manufacturing space to produce and test its advanced Blackwell chips in Arizona and build AI supercomputers in Texas. The initiative is part of a broader investment the company says could generate up to half a trillion dollars in AI infrastructure over the next four years.

The announcement comes as the Trump administration has signaled that current tariff exemptions on electronics such as smartphones and laptops are only temporary, pending the development of a new tariff strategy tailored to the semiconductor industry.

"The engines of the world's AI infrastructure are being built in the United States for the first time," Nvidia founder Jensen Huang said in a statement. "Adding American manufacturing helps us better meet the incredible and growing demand for AI chips and supercomputers, strengthens our supply chain and boosts our resiliency."

Sen. Elizabeth Warren leads bill seeking ethics checks on special government employees like Elon Musk

Democratic lawmakers Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Melanie Stansbury are sponsoring a bill seeking ethics checks on special government employees like Elon Musk.

The bill would prevent special government employees from communicating and working with government agencies that interface with their companies.

"Unelected billionaire Elon Musk should not be acting as co-president of the United States and making $8 million a day from government contracts while he's at it," Warren said in a post on X.

"My new bill would crack down on conflicts of interest for Elon Musk and all Special Government Employees."

Joe Biden's first public address since leaving White House: What to Know

Former President Joe Biden is set to deliver his first public address since leaving the White House at the 2025 national conference of Advocates Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) in Chicago on Tuesday, April 15.

According to a press release, his speech will serve as the keynote for a sold-out event, which will include national leaders, experts and practitioners focused on ensuring Social Security.

"Reflecting Social Security's proud history and broad support, the president will be joined by a distinguished, bipartisan slate of advocates and leaders including former Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), former Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), and former Governor and Social Security Administrator Martin O'Malley (D-MD)," the release states.

Trump warns Iran against pursuing nuclear weapons

Trump on Monday warned Iran that any attempt to develop nuclear weapons would face severe consequences, including potential military action.

When asked whether a U.S. response could include strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, Trump responded, "Of course it does."

His comments come amid rising tensions in the Middle East and renewed concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions. Trump said Iran must abandon any pursuit of a nuclear arsenal or "face harsh consequences."

WATCH: El Salvador President Bukele says he lacks 'power' to return deported Maryland dad

Biden condemns attack on Shapiro family during Passover

Former President Joe Biden expressed outrage Monday over an attack on the Shapiro family and their home during the first night of Passover, calling the incident "evil" and vowing unity in the face of hate.

"Jill and I are disgusted by the attack on the Shapiro family and their home," Biden wrote on X. "We are relieved that they are safe and grateful to the first responders."

Trump says 'everybody's to blame' for Ukraine war

Trump on Monday acknowledged that Russian President Vladimir Putin started the war in Ukraine, but said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former President Joe Biden also share responsibility.

"That's a war that should have never been allowed to start," Trump said during a meeting with El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele at the White House. "Biden could have stopped it, and Zelensky should have stopped it, and Putin should have never started it. Everybody's to blame."

Trump, who has criticized U.S. aid to Ukraine, went on to call it "Biden's war" and claimed, "I'm trying to stop it."

Later, when asked about supplying more patriot missiles to Ukraine, Trump appeared to suggest Zelensky provoked the conflict. "You don't start a war with someone who's 20 times your size and then hope people give you some missiles," he said.

Failed security at Josh Shapiro's home under scrutiny after fire attack

Security at the Pennsylvania governor's mansion has come under scrutiny after authorities said a man was able to scale an iron fence, elude police and break into the residence to start a fire before fleeing the same way he came in.

Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police told reporters on Sunday that a review of security measures was already underway.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said he, his family and guests who had celebrated the Jewish holiday of Passover at the residence on Saturday were awakened by state troopers pounding on their doors around 2 a.m. on Sunday. They evacuated the building in Harrisburg, and firefighters put out the fire. No one was injured, but the fire caused significant damage.

Read in full from Khaleda Rahman on Newsweek.

Trump slams arsonist behind Gov. Shapiro's home attack as a 'whack job'

President Donald Trump has condemned the arsonist attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's home.

During a meeting with El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele at the White House on Monday, Trump was asked the FBI had determined a motive for the attack. The president responded that they didn't know the motive, but he'd heard "the attacker was not a fan of Trump."

"The attacker basically wasn't a fan of anybody," he added.

"He was probably just a whack job. And certainly a thing like that cannot be allowed to happen."

On Sunday, authorities identified Cody Balmer, 38, of Harrisburg, as the man in custody in connection with the fire. He has been charged with attempted murder, aggravated arson, burglary, terrorism and other offenses.

Trump says he will be around 'for a little longer' after physical

Donald Trump is once again touting his health after undergoing an annual physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Friday. Speaking from the Oval Office on Monday, Trump told reporters that the results suggest he'll be around "for a little longer."

A summary of the exam was released Sunday, but Trump voluntarily revisited the topic, saying he also completed a cognitive test and did well on it.

"I like taking them because they're not too tough for me to take," he said, adding that his health remains strong.

El Salvador's President says he won't release Maryland dad

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele was asked if he plans to send Maryland father Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was deported by mistake, back to the United States.

Bukele responded that the question was "preposterous."

"I don't have the power to return him to the United States," he told reporters at the White House meeting with Donald Trump on Monday.

The Supreme Court ruled last week that the Trump administration had to facilitate the return of Abrego Garcia after he was deported to the El Salvador prison.

But AG Pam Bondi said today that the order means they simply have to supply a plane.

Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller added that it was up to El Salvador to release Abrego Garcia if it wanted to, not the United States.

When asked if he would consider releasing Abrego Garcia into his own country, Buekele said, "I'm not releasing him, I mean we're not very fond of releasing terrorists into our country.

"We just turned the murder capital of the world to the safest country in the western hemisphere, and you want us to go back? That's not going to happen."

Trump and Bukele dismiss questions on deported migrant's return

Trump referred all questions about Kilmar Abrego Garcia's wrongful deportation to Attorney General Pam Bondi, who claimed Abrego Garcia was in the U.S. illegally and linked to the MS-13 gang. "That's up to El Salvador if they want to return him. That's not up to us," Bondi said.

She called the matter one of "foreign affairs" and added the U.S. would help with transportation if El Salvador chose to send him back.

When asked about a possible return, President Nayib Bukele called the idea "preposterous" and described Abrego Garcia as "a terrorist," insisting he had no authority to return him.

Abrego Garcia's lawyers have denied that he was part of any gang and continue to fight his case in court.

Trump and Bukele praise deportation deal, veer into women's sports

During a meeting at the White House, Trump claimed the previous administration allowed "millions" of migrants, including gang members from Venezuela, to enter the country unchecked. He thanked El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele for helping deport many of them.

"You are helping us out, and we appreciate it," Trump said, shaking Bukele's hand.

"We're very eager to help," Bukele replied.

The two leaders then shifted the conversation to opposing the inclusion of trans women in women's sports, framing it as a matter of protecting women from abuse. They ended the exchange by praising themselves for appointing women to their cabinets.

Miller denies mistaken deportation despite court admission

White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller denied that Kilmar Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported to El Salvador, calling the incident a "hoax" in a Fox News interview, even though court documents filed by the Trump administration describe it as an "administrative error."

Miller insisted Abrego Garcia was in the U.S. illegally and had a valid deportation order, despite a judge's 2019 ruling that blocked his removal. "Where is he a citizen of? El Salvador. Is he here illegally? Yes. Does he have a deportation order? Yes," Miller said.

The Trump administration has not asked El Salvador to return Abrego Garcia, who remains in a maximum-security prison. Miller claimed the man is affiliated with MS-13, a claim his family denies, and vowed continued deportations of alleged gang members under the deal with President Nayib Bukele.

"There's no upper limit," Miller said of the deportation pact.

Trump and El Salvador President Nayib Bukele discuss crime at White House meeting

President Donald Trump is meeting with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele at the White House.

Through Trump's relationship with Bukele, the U.S. has deported more than 200 Venezuelan migrants, who are alleged to be gang members, to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador.

During Monday's meeting, the pair are discussing crime, and their continued partnership.

Speaking of the alleged gang members, Bukele said, "You have to imprison them so you can liberate the 350 million Americans who are asking for an end of crime, an end of terrorism."

Trump meets Bukele as deportation deal draws scrutiny

Trump is hosting El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele at the White House today to discuss their growing partnership, which has become key to the administration's deportation policy.

Under the arrangement, more than 200 Venezuelan men accused of gang ties have been deported to El Salvador's maximum-security Cecot prison. The deportations are being carried out under the Alien Enemies Act, a rarely used 18th-century law.

On Sunday, Trump dismissed concerns about human rights abuses at the prison. "I don't see it," he told reporters. "(Bukele's) taking care of a lot of problems that we have that we really wouldn't be able to take care of, from a cost standpoint."

Donald Trump's approval rating is sliding among Republican pollsters

President Donald Trump's approval ratings are slipping in surveys conducted by or on behalf of Republican-aligned organizations.

Two recent GOP-friendly polls show Trump with a negative net approval rating, while one Republican pollster reports the president's lowest net score of his second term.

The polls suggest that some of Trump's second-term policies, including cost-cutting measures and tariff plans, are proving unpopular with voters.

A TIPP Insights poll conducted for the League of American Workers, released Sunday, showed that 50 percent of registered voters disapprove of the job Trump is doing as president, compared with 43 percent who approve. This gives the Republican a net approval rating of minus 7 points.

The poll was conducted April 7–9 among 1,570 registered voters and the results have a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points.

In a previous TIPP/League of American Workers poll conducted in March, Trump had a net approval rating of minus 5 points (48 percent disapprove, 43 percent approve).

The League of American Workers says it advocates for workers instead of labor unions, which it claims have been "totally captured by the Democrat Party [sic] and a cringe radical agenda."

Another survey, conducted by the Republican polling group RMG Research for the Napolitan News Service, shows Trump with a net approval rating of plus 1 point (49 percent approve, 48 percent disapprove).

Read the full story by Ewan Palmer on Newsweek.

Donald Trump's approval rating is sliding among Republican pollsters

President Donald Trump's approval ratings are slipping in surveys conducted by or on behalf of Republican-aligned organizations.

Two recent GOP-friendly polls show Trump with a negative net approval rating, while one Republican pollster reports the president's lowest net score of his second term.

The polls suggest that some of Trump's second-term policies, including cost-cutting measures and tariff plans, are proving unpopular with voters.

A TIPP Insights poll conducted for the League of American Workers, released Sunday, showed that 50 percent of registered voters disapprove of the job Trump is doing as president, compared with 43 percent who approve. This gives the Republican a net approval rating of minus 7 points.

Read in full from Ewan Palmer on Newsweek.

Zelensky pleads with Trump to visit Ukraine after Russian attack

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is pleading with President Donald Trump to visit his country to "understand what Putin did" after a deadly Russian missile attack left 34 dead.

"Please, before any kind of decisions, any kind of forms of negotiations, come to see people, civilians, warriors, hospitals, churches, children destroyed or dead," Zelenskyy said on CBS Sunday, referring to Trump.

He also addressed his White House meeting with Trump and Vice President JD Vance in February ended in an unprecedented shouting match.

Zelensky said on Sunday that Vance appeared to be "somehow justifying Putin's actions."

"I tried to explain, 'You can't look for something in the middle. There is an aggressor and there is a victim. The Russians are the aggressor, and we are the victim.'"

Experts warn of looming recession, trade damage, and legal standoff

On Monday's CNN News Central, economists and legal analysts voiced concerns over the state of the U.S. economy and the Trump administration's response to a Supreme Court order. Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi told anchor John Berman that a recession could hit within "three, four more weeks" if tariff-related uncertainty continues. He warned that rising consumer prices could lead to spending cuts and layoffs, which he called the tipping point for a downturn.

Former White House economic adviser Jared Bernstein, speaking with anchor Sara Sidner, said the administration has done lasting harm to America's global financial reputation. He pointed to recent turmoil in the bond market and said the U.S. may have lost its status as the world's safest investment option, a blow that "won't be easy to fix."

Meanwhile, legal analyst Shan Wu told anchor Kate Bolduan that the Trump administration may be exploiting ambiguous language in a Supreme Court order directing them to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a deported Maryland man. Wu said the court's use of the word "facilitate" gave the administration room to stall, calling it "a loophole big enough to fly a plane through."

Trump's doctor says 78-year-old is 'fully fit' after physical exam

Former President Donald Trump is "fully fit" to serve as commander in chief, according to results from a recent physical exam released Sunday by the White House. At 78, Trump is the oldest person ever elected president.

His physician, Navy Capt. Sean Barbabella, noted that Trump has lost 20 pounds since his last presidential checkup in 2020, when he was bordering on obesity. The doctor credited Trump's "active lifestyle" for contributing to his current health.

In a three-page summary of Friday's comprehensive exam, Barbabella wrote that Trump is healthy enough to carry out all responsibilities of the presidency.

Asked how he stays in shape, Trump told reporters, "Because I enjoy what I'm doing and I like the results. I think we're making America great again and it makes me feel good."

Ray Dalio warns Trump's tariffs could lead to recession or worse

Billionaire investor Ray Dalio said President Donald Trump's tariff policies have pushed the U.S. economy to the brink of a recession — and possibly something more severe.

Speaking on NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday, the Bridgewater Associates founder said, "Right now, we are at a decision-making point and very close to a recession. And I'm worried about something worse if this isn't handled well."

Dalio criticized the administration's tariff strategy as chaotic and damaging to global production, saying it has created instability in the economy. He likened the tariffs to "throwing rocks into the production system."

Trump's recent 90-day pause on most "reciprocal" tariffs did little to ease concerns, especially with a 145% rate still in place for Chinese imports. Economists at Goldman Sachs now estimate a 45% chance of a U.S. recession within the next year.

US stocks rise after tariff exemptions on electronics

U.S. stocks climbed Monday morning after the Trump administration temporarily exempted smartphones, computers, and other electronics from steep new tariffs on Chinese imports.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 480 points, or 1.2%, while the S&P 500 rose 1.75%. The Nasdaq Composite jumped 2.4%, led by a rally in tech stocks like Apple.

Investors responded to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection notice posted late Friday that detailed the exemptions. The move followed last week's announcement of a 145% tariff on some Chinese imports, though those related to the fentanyl trade remain subject to a 20% tariff.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Sunday the electronics exemption is temporary and that the products could still face future levies. The announcement adds to ongoing uncertainty around the evolving trade dispute.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen plans trip to El Salvador over deportation case

Sen. Chris Van Hollen announced plans to travel to El Salvador this week if Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a constituent, is not returned by then.

The Maryland Democrat emphasized that Garcia's abduction and illegal deportation should never have occurred, citing court rulings that mandate his return.

Van Hollen criticized the Trump administration for reportedly ignoring these legal directives, calling for more immediate action.

Funding cuts threaten 250th-anniversary celebrations

Plans for nationwide celebrations marking the U.S. 250th anniversary of independence next year are facing significant challenges due to federal funding cuts. Several state humanities councils have expressed concern that the cuts, initiated under President Donald Trump's administration, could force many planned events to be scaled back or canceled.

The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) was responsible for distributing federal grants to support programs like educational curriculums, exhibits, and performances tied to the America250 initiative. However, a deep cost-cutting effort has resulted in the cancellation of these grants. As a result, councils in states like Georgia, Oregon, and Louisiana are now scrambling to adjust their plans for community-focused celebrations.

While Trump signed an executive order earlier this year to establish a White House task force for the anniversary, some critics argue that the funding cuts undermine the administration's commitment to a meaningful national commemoration. The loss of resources has led to the suspension of numerous planned events, leaving local communities with fewer opportunities to reflect on the nation's history.

With the loss of $740,000 in federal funding, Georgia Humanities, for example, now faces uncertainty over its planned programs, including digital book clubs and museum exhibits. State councils are now in "contingency planning" mode, unsure how to move forward with significantly reduced resources.

The funding cuts have sparked frustration, as these celebrations were seen as an important opportunity for Americans to engage with their history in an inclusive and meaningful way. Without the necessary support, some worry that the full scope of the country's diverse past will not be represented during the 250th anniversary observances.

Kevin Hassett responds to White House insider trading fears

The top economic adviser at the White House rejected suggestions that there may have been insider trading in relation to President Donald Trump's decision to pause his reciprocal tariffs.

Democrats in Congress are pushing for an investigation into the potential for insider trading after the dramatic swings in the stock markets. Before announcing his tariff pause, Trump had posted to Truth Social that it was a great time to buy.

"There was no insider trading at the White House," Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, said in an interview with Fox Business's Maria Bartiromo on Monday morning.

"But I can say that when there are big movements in markets, there are people around town that investigate and make sure that nothing funny was happening.

"The issues will be investigated by the right officials, but I'm sure it's not anything to do with the White House."

Ahead of Trump's announcement that he would pause his reciprocal tariffs on all but China for 90 days, allowing time for negotiations, the S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite Index, and Dow Jones Industrial Average were down by several percent, having shed trillions of dollars in value.

Investors foresaw a recession as a consequence of Trump's trade war, and a huge global sell-off ensued. But Trump's pause sent stocks surging by several percent again as investors returned on the news, adding back earlier losses.

"THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY!!!" Trump posted on Truth Social hours before announcing that he had paused his reciprocal tariffs.

Read the full story by Shane Croucher on Newsweek.

Trump lashes out at '60 Minutes' after Ukraine, Greenland reports

Trump criticized 60 Minutes on Sunday night following the CBS program's reports on Ukraine and Greenland. Posting on Truth Social, Trump accused the network of defamation and claimed it should "pay a big price" for what he described as repeated attacks.

"Almost every week, 60 Minutes mentions the name 'TRUMP' in a derogatory and defamatory way, but this weekend's 'broadcast' tops them all," he wrote, urging the FCC to issue severe fines for what he called "unlawful and illegal behavior."

CBS has not responded publicly. Trump is currently suing 60 Minutes for $20 billion over an interview with Kamala Harris that he claims was edited to favor her. Reports suggest potential settlement talks between his legal team and CBS' parent company are ongoing.

White House says China's rare earth export limits are 'concerning'

White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said the Trump administration is closely watching China's move to restrict exports of some rare earth minerals.

"These limits are being studied very carefully, and they're concerning," Hassett told reporters Monday, adding that officials are considering all options.

Rare earth elements are essential to tech and electronics manufacturing. Hassett also told Fox Business earlier that the administration was "100% not" expecting a recession despite escalating trade tensions.

Judge presses Trump officials on man mistakenly deported to El Salvador prison

The Trump administration said it is aware that Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man mistakenly deported, is being held in a high-security prison in El Salvador.

In response to U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis' demand for daily updates, a State Department official confirmed Abrego Garcia is alive and detained at the Terrorism Confinement Center in San Salvador. Judge Xinis had ordered the government to detail his location, condition, and what was being done to bring him back.

Abrego Garcia's lawyers are pushing for immediate action, including his release and return to the U.S. But the administration objected, citing diplomatic sensitivity and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele's visit to Washington.

Officials said they would provide updates "as appropriate" and warned that a court order compelling further action could interfere with international relations.

Xi says no one wins in a trade war during Southeast Asia visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping warned against escalating trade tensions as he began a diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia on Monday. In a message aimed at contrasting China's approach with that of U.S. President Donald Trump, Xi called for cooperation and open trade.

"There are no winners in a trade war, or a tariff war," Xi wrote in a joint editorial published in Vietnamese and Chinese state media. His remarks come as the U.S. maintains 145% tariffs on Chinese imports, despite a recent pause on some duties.

Xi's first stop was Vietnam, where he met with top leaders and signed cooperation agreements, including a commitment to accelerate a $8 billion cross-border railway. The visit was seen as a strategic move to bolster China's influence in the region and counter U.S. trade actions.

Vietnam, which has benefited from companies shifting supply chains away from China, also faces scrutiny from the U.S. over alleged transshipment of Chinese goods. Xi is expected to continue his trip in Malaysia and Cambodia later this week.

List of products exempt from Trump tariffs including smartphones, laptops

The Trump administration has issued a temporary exemption for a wide range of electronics—including smartphones and laptops—from sweeping tariffs, offering relief to tech companies and consumers amid escalating trade tensions with China.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) updated its tariff guidelines Friday night to list 20 product categories exempt from the "reciprocal" tariffs introduced under Executive Order 14257.

The exemptions, effective retroactively from April 5, apply to goods such as automatic data processing machines, semiconductors, and flat-panel displays.

"These products are subject to the existing 20% Fentanyl Tariffs, and they are just moving to a different Tariff 'bucket,'" Trump wrote on Truth Social. "We are taking a look at Semiconductors and the WHOLE ELECTRONICS SUPPLY CHAIN in the upcoming National Security Tariff Investigations."

The White House confirmed that tariffs collected after April 5 on these items will be refunded through standard Customs procedures (White House Memorandum). Trump and his officials have insisted the relief is temporary (USA Today), with new semiconductor-focused tariffs expected within months.

Read the full story by Dan Cody on Newsweek.