Donald Trump’s latest actions over the past weekend signal major shifts in policy, both domestically and internationally. From workplace safety regulations to military presence at the border, his administration is taking bold steps that could have long-lasting consequences. These moves include dismantling OSHA, restricting gender-affirming care, creating a sovereign wealth fund, and escalating tensions with Panama. Meanwhile, a federal worker purge continues as part of Trump’s efforts to reshape government institutions. Here’s a breakdown of what happened and why it matters.
GOP Congressman Introduces Bill to Abolish OSHA
On February 3, 2025, Republican Congressman Andy Biggs from Arizona introduced a bill aiming to dismantle the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Established five decades ago, OSHA has played a pivotal role in reducing workplace injuries and fatalities. The proposed 67-word bill lacks directives for states to implement their own safety regulations post-OSHA, potentially jeopardizing worker safety nationwide. Critics argue that eliminating OSHA without a replacement framework could lead to increased workplace hazards and undermine decades of progress in occupational health.
Hospitals Pause Gender-Affirming Care; White House Celebrates
In a recent press release, the White House lauded hospitals nationwide for downsizing or eliminating their gender-affirming care programs. This move follows an executive order from President Trump targeting transgender healthcare, particularly for minors. The order could disrupt care for over 300,000 transgender youths across the country. In response, New York Attorney General Letitia James reminded hospitals that denying gender-affirming care to individuals under 19 violates state anti-discrimination laws. The tension between federal directives and state laws underscores the ongoing national debate over transgender rights and healthcare access.
Trump Creates Sovereign Wealth Fund with an Eye on TikTok
On February 3, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order directing Commerce Secretary nominee Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to establish an American sovereign wealth fund. Trump described the initiative as “exciting,” hinting at potential involvement with the social media platform TikTok. He stated, “We’re going to be doing something, perhaps, with TikTok, and perhaps not. If we make the right deal, we’ll do it; otherwise, we won’t, but I have the right to do that.” This move reflects the administration’s ongoing concerns about foreign ownership of technology companies and its implications for national security.
Hegseth Visits Troops at Border
Recently confirmed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth traveled to the U.S.-Mexico border to visit troops stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. These deployments are part of President Trump’s military initiative to address what he terms an “invasion” of undocumented immigrants. The administration has emphasized the use of military resources to bolster border security and expedite mass deportations. Hegseth’s visit underscores the administration’s commitment to a robust military presence at the southern border.
Trump Issues ‘Very Powerful’ Threat to Panama
President Trump reiterated his threat to seize control of the Panama Canal if the Panamanian government doesn’t address what the administration perceives as excessive Chinese influence over the waterway. He told reporters, “China is running the Panama Canal. That was not given to China; that was given to Panama foolishly. They’ve violated the agreement, and we’re going to take it back, or something very powerful is going to happen.” This statement coincides with Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s inaugural trip to Panama to meet with President Jose Raul Mulino, highlighting escalating tensions over strategic global trade routes.
Purge of Federal Workers Continues
As part of President Trump’s ongoing efforts to remove perceived political adversaries within the government, the Justice Department abruptly terminated between 25 and 30 federal prosecutors involved in cases related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Additionally, over 60 Department of Education staffers were placed on administrative leave for attending a diversity training course in 2019 during Trump’s first term. These actions are part of a broader crackdown on federal diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, reflecting the administration’s intent to reshape the federal workforce according to its ideological preferences.
In summary, the past weekend saw significant actions from the Trump administration, ranging from domestic policy shifts to assertive foreign policy stances.ach move carries substantial implications for various sectors, reflecting the administration’s priorities and approach to governance.
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