Donald Trump: Strategic Pause or Political Gambit? The U.S. administration’s approach to Iran has once again sparked debate, as President Donald Trump extended an indefinite ceasefire with Tehran after initially threatening military escalation. The decision, announced on Tuesday, has been framed by the White House as a strategic pause to facilitate diplomacy, but critics argue it reflects a pattern of inconsistent policy and improvisation. Trump’s public rationale emphasized the need for Iran to present a “unified proposal,” the effectiveness of economic pressure, and the potential of backchannel negotiations via Pakistan. He also suggested that internal divisions within Iran’s leadership could be exploited to secure a more favorable outcome for Washington. However, the move has deepened skepticism in Washington, where many view the administration’s Iran policy as erratic rather than coherent. Analysts and policymakers have noted that Trump’s rhetoric has oscillated between maximalist threats of military action and optimistic predictions of imminent diplomatic breakthroughs. This unpredictability has left allies uncertain and adversaries emboldened, with markets reacting to every presidential statement as if it were both a policy directive and a fleeting impulse. The administration’s actions—threatening strikes, preparing military options, delaying action, extending the ceasefire, and maintaining a naval blockade of Iranian shipping—have been criticized as a cycle of escalation and retreat rather than a calculated strategy. Iran’s response has been a mix of official defiance and informal celebration. Iranian officials have pointed out that they did not request the ceasefire extension and are under no obligation to reciprocate.#iran #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #white_house #joint_comprehensive_plan_of_action
White House Considers Former Deputy Surgeon General for CDC Leadership The White House is evaluating Erica Schwartz, a former deputy surgeon general, as a potential nominee to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to two sources familiar with the process, Schwartz has emerged as the leading candidate for the position, which has remained vacant since the ouster of Susan Monarez in August 2025. The search for a permanent director has been complicated by the ongoing efforts of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to restructure the federal health bureaucracy, including significant cuts to public health agencies and controversial vaccine policies. Schwartz’s nomination follows a prolonged selection process involving key figures within the Department of Health and Human Services. Chris Klomp, a top official in the department, and Kennedy have reportedly settled on Schwartz as their preferred candidate. However, the final approval from President Trump remains pending, with an announcement potentially occurring as early as April 15, 2026. If confirmed, Schwartz would become the first CDC director with a background in public health and a career in uniformed service, marking a shift from the political appointments that have characterized the agency’s leadership in recent years. Schwartz’s qualifications include her role as deputy surgeon general during the first Trump administration, where she oversaw critical public health initiatives. She also spent 24 years in the military, rising to the rank of rear admiral in the Coast Guard, where she served as the chief medical officer. Her academic background includes a medical degree from Brown University and a law degree from the University of Maryland.#white_house #department_of_health_and_human_services #robert_f_kennedy_jr #centers_for_disease_control_and_prevention #erica_schwartz
Dasher Completes First Ever White House Delivery to Mark Impact of No Tax on Tips Sharon Simmons, a Dasher from Arkansas, made history by delivering a package to the White House on the South Lawn of the Oval Office, marking the first-ever delivery to the presidential residence. The event celebrated the first anniversary of the No Tax on Tips policy, which aims to ensure that gig workers like Simmons retain more of their earnings by exempting tips from federal income tax. The delivery, which concluded her order at the White House, symbolized the broader impact of the policy on millions of independent contractors. For Simmons, the moment was deeply personal. A grandmother of ten, she began working as a Dasher in 2022 to maintain flexibility in her schedule while supporting her family. Over the past two years, she has completed more than 14,000 deliveries, a testament to the time she has invested in her work. Since the implementation of No Tax on Tips, she and other Dashers have benefited from retaining a larger share of their tips, which are now exempt from federal income tax. The policy is estimated to have saved hundreds of millions of dollars for Dashers nationwide. Simmons emphasized the significance of the policy in her statement, highlighting how it has transformed her ability to balance work and family life. “Thanks to DoorDash, I have been able to provide for my family while keeping the schedule that works best for me, something I never thought would be possible,” she said. “Now No Tax on Tips has taken things to the next level, letting me keep more of the tips I earn and deserve.” Her words underscore the personal and financial relief the policy has brought to gig workers, many of whom face challenges in securing stable income and benefits.#white_house #doorDash #sharon_simmons #no_tax_on_tips #south_lawn
White House Reportedly Warns Staff Against Insider Trading The White House reportedly issued a staff-wide warning against engaging in insider trading, following concerns raised by lawmakers about potential misuse of confidential information. The directive, first reported by the Wall Street Journal, was sent by the White House Management Office on March 24, a day after President Donald Trump paused military strikes on Iran’s civilian infrastructure. The email emphasized the ethical and legal obligations of federal employees to avoid using nonpublic information for financial gain. The warning comes amid scrutiny over trading activity linked to Trump’s decisions regarding the U.S.-Israel war on Iran. On March 23, Trump posted on Truth Social, announcing a pause in military strikes against Iran, which was followed by a surge in trading on futures markets. Bloomberg reported that contracts covering at least six million barrels of Brent and West Texas Intermediate crude were sold within two minutes starting at 6:49 a.m. in New York, far exceeding the average of 700,000 barrels sold during the same period in prior weeks. The rapid trading volume raised questions about whether insiders had access to Trump’s planned announcement. The email also addressed betting on prediction markets, where users trade contracts based on the outcomes of future events. Platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi have seen increased activity, particularly around high-profile events such as the 2024 presidential election and Trump’s capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in January. However, lawmakers have expressed concerns about the potential for insider trading on these platforms. On March 23, Senators Adam Schiff (D, Calif.#donald_trump #white_house #kalshi #polymarket #wall_street_journal
White House Staff Warned Not to Place Bets on Prediction Markets White House staff were warned last month not to use insider information to place bets on prediction markets, according to an email sent on March 24. The email, which was shared with staff, came a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause on his threat to attack Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure. The message referenced press reports that raised concerns about government officials potentially using non-public information to gain an advantage on platforms like Kalshi or Polymarket. White House spokesman Davis Ingle told the BBC that "any implication that Administration officials are engaged in such activity without evidence is baseless and irresponsible reporting." He emphasized that all federal employees are subject to government ethics guidelines that prohibit the use of insider information for financial gain. Ingle also reiterated that Trump’s priorities are "the best interest of the American people," though the statement did not directly address the specific allegations. The Wall Street Journal first reported the email, which sparked renewed scrutiny of prediction markets. These platforms allow users to wager on a wide range of events, from sports outcomes to political developments, including whether the U.S. central bank will cut rates or the results of local elections. The email’s timing coincided with heightened attention on the potential for insider trading in such markets, particularly after a high-profile incident involving Polymarket in January. Polymarket faced scrutiny earlier this year when an anonymous user reportedly made nearly half a million dollars by betting on the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro before the event was officially announced.#nicolas_maduro #white_house #davis_ingle #polymarket #commodity_futures_trading_commission
White House denies Trump's Walter Reed visit The White House issued a formal denial of unverified claims that President Donald Trump had been hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, responding to online speculation triggered by a press notification about his schedule. The statement came after the administration announced that Trump would not make any public appearances for the remainder of the day, a move that fueled rumors about his health. Steven Cheung, White House Director of Communications, addressed the rumors on X, asserting that Trump had been working throughout the Easter weekend in the White House and Oval Office. The denial was a direct rebuttal to viral posts that had accumulated over a million views within hours of being shared online. These posts alleged that Trump had been seen at or near Walter Reed in Bethesda, Maryland, with some claiming that an emergency White House meeting was underway due to a blocked road nearby. However, none of these claims were independently verified. The speculation was triggered by the White House’s announcement at 11:08 a.m. that the president would not be making any public appearances for the rest of the day. While press lids are a routine part of presidential scheduling, the timing was noted as atypical for Trump, who regularly travels to Mar-a-Lago to golf on weekends. Cheung emphasized that Trump had been working nonstop in the White House and Oval Office during the Easter weekend, highlighting his continued engagement with government affairs. This is not the first time Trump’s name has been linked to Walter Reed. During his first term in November 2019, he made an unannounced visit to the facility, which was not listed on his public schedule. The White House later stated that he was completing portions of his annual physical.#donald_trump #white_house #stephanie_grisham #dr_sean_barbabella #walter_reed
Peter Alexander is leaving NBC News after nearly 22 years with the network, including 15 years covering the White House and eight years as co-anchor of “Saturday Today,” according to a source. The decision comes after years of being passed over for top anchor positions at NBC’s flagship shows, including “Today” and “Nightly News.” Alexander, who also serves as the network’s chief White House correspondent, cited the demanding 6-7 day workweeks as a key factor in his departure, though he was also reportedly frustrated by his lack of opportunities for higher-profile roles. Alexander took over the “Saturday Today” anchor slot in 2018, replacing Craig Melvin, who was moved to weekday mornings to “elevate” his career. Melvin later became the lead anchor of “Today,” leaving Alexander without a clear path to that position. In recent years, NBC filled other top anchor roles with Tom Llamas at “Nightly News,” Kristin Welker at “Meet the Press,” and Hallie Jackson at “Weekend Nightly News.” With these positions already occupied, Alexander said he would pursue a new direction. His last day at NBC News is set for Saturday, and he plans to transition to an 11 a.m. weekday anchor role at MS Now, the rebranded MSNBC network that was split from NBC following a restructuring in 2025. The move marks a significant shift for Alexander, who has been a staple of NBC’s news coverage for over two decades. A spokesperson for NBC did not respond to inquiries about his departure. The decision highlights the competitive nature of television news, where long tenures at major networks often come with limited opportunities for advancement. Alexander’s departure underscores the challenges faced by anchors who seek to move into higher-profile roles, even as the industry continues to evolve with new platforms and restructuring efforts.#white_house #nbc_news #ms_now #peter_alexander #saturday_today
White House turns down Elon Musk's offer to pay TSA workers during DHS shutdown The White House has declined an offer from Elon Musk to cover the salaries of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers during a partial government shutdown that has left airport travelers across the country without proper staffing. According to multiple sources, Musk’s proposal was considered seriously by Trump administration officials, but legal hurdles could prevent him from directly or indirectly funding the pay, particularly due to his existing government contracts. White House officials also expressed confidence that the partial shutdown would end soon, according to unnamed sources. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized Democrats for the stalemate, accusing them of prolonging the crisis. “The president and the Republicans’ position has been very clear—fund the Department of Homeland Security,” Leavitt stated. Musk publicly offered to pay TSA personnel during the funding impasse, posting on X, where he noted the impact on American travelers. President Trump praised the idea, saying, “I’d love it. I think it’s great. Let him do that.” However, the administration has not accepted the offer, citing legal complexities. The estimated cost of Musk’s proposal is around $250 million, according to two sources. While the government could theoretically redirect funds from its general account to cover the pay, federal law prohibits private individuals from directly compensating government employees. However, citizens can donate to the U.S. government through the “Gifts to the U.S. Government” account, which can then be allocated to budget needs.#white_house #elon_musk #karoline_leavitt #transportation_security_administration #dhs_shutdown
Trump Orders DHS to Immediately Pay TSA Officers Amid Partial Shutdown President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he will sign an order directing the Department of Homeland Security to immediately pay Transportation Security Administration officers who have been without paychecks during the ongoing partial government shutdown. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump instructed newly appointed Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to “immediately pay our TSA Agents in order to address this Emergency Situation.” The funding lapse at DHS has left TSA officers without their first full paycheck since mid-March, prompting many to call out of work. The agency has faced significant challenges in maintaining operations under the current circumstances, with staff and travelers reporting long delays and disrupted services at major airports. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the situation in a statement, acknowledging that the administration is “having discussions about a number of ideas” to mitigate the impact of the shutdown. However, she emphasized that no formal plans or preparations are currently in place. Leavitt noted that the “best and easiest way to pay TSA Agents is to fund DHS,” highlighting the administration’s focus on resolving the funding crisis. The announcement comes as the Senate has repeatedly stalled efforts to pass a House-approved bill that would fully fund DHS for a year. Democrats have resisted the legislation, citing their desire to make changes to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies. The debate over the bill has intensified following recent events, including an immigration surge in Minneapolis and the fatal shooting of two U.S. citizens by federal officers earlier this year.#donald_trump #white_house #department_of_homeland_security #transportation_security_administration #markwayne_mullin
Bill Maher is Kennedy Center’s latest Mark Twain award recipient Bill Maher, the comedian whose relationship with President Donald Trump has veered between friendly and antagonistic, will be the 27th recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the first Twain Prize recipient chosen under Trump’s leadership — despite the fact that, just last week, the White House flatly denied this to be true.#white_house #kennedy_center #president_donald_trump #bill_maher #mark_twain_prize
Bill Maher to Receive Mark Twain Prize at Kennedy Center Despite White House Denial TV host Bill Maher will be honored with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor by the Kennedy Center, the institution announced on Thursday. The decision comes days after the White House dismissed reports of the comedian receiving the award, calling the news “fake news.” Maher is set to accept the honor on June 28, the day before the Kennedy Center closes for a two-year renovation. The center has faced declining attendance and cancellations from performers due to President Donald Trump’s restructuring of the organization, which included a controversial name change. Maher, known for his HBO show “Real Time with Bill Maher,” has long been a vocal critic of Trump’s policies. In a statement, he humorously remarked on the award, comparing it to an Emmy, and paid tribute to Mark Twain, noting the writer’s frequent removal from school libraries. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt previously denied the reports, stating, “Bill Maher will NOT be getting this award.” The Kennedy Center’s vice president of public relations, Roma Daravi, highlighted Maher’s influence on American discourse, calling his work “politically incorrect” and emphasizing his decades-long impact on comedy. The Mark Twain Prize, established to recognize excellence in humor, has previously been awarded to comedians such as Steve Martin, Tina Fey, Billy Crystal, Jon Stewart, and Adam Sandler. The award ceremony, typically held at the Kennedy Center, usually features a gala for entertainers and comedians. Maher’s relationship with Trump has been contentious. The two met in 2025 at the White House, arranged by entertainer Kid Rock, but their dynamic has remained strained.#white_house #kennedy_center #bill_maher #romas_daravi #mark_twain_prize
Trump prepared to 'unleash hell' if Iran doesn't make deal, White House warns, amid questions on status of talks White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt provided limited details about ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, but emphasized that President Donald Trump remains prepared to take severe action if Tehran refuses to reach a deal. Leavitt warned that Trump would ensure Iran faces "more punishment than ever" if the country fails to accept the "reality of the current moment," including its military defeat. She described Trump’s stance as firm, stating, "President Trump does not bluff, and he is prepared to unleash hell." The administration has sent a 15-point peace plan to Iran through Pakistan, according to sources. Iran’s Press TV cited an official rejecting the U.S. proposal, while Tehran denied any negotiations had occurred. Leavitt insisted talks are "ongoing and productive" but avoided specifics on the discussions, the Iranian representatives involved, or plans for in-person meetings. When asked if the talks had reached an impasse, she dismissed the idea, asserting, "They have not." Trump recently delayed major attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure for five days, citing "productive" talks as a reason. Leavitt highlighted that the U.S. is offering Iran an opportunity to "permanently abandon nuclear ambitions" and stop threatening America and its allies. Both Pakistan and Egypt have proposed hosting talks, though nothing is finalized. Leavitt cautioned against treating unconfirmed reports as official, stating, "Nothing should be deemed official until it is announced formally by the White House." Key figures in the negotiations include Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.#iran #trump #white_house #jared_kushner #karoline_leavitt
Trump Proclaims Greek Independence Day 2026 in the US US President Donald Trump has officially designated March 25, 2026, as Greek Independence Day, framing it as a National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy. The proclamation, issued by the White House, underscores the historical and philosophical ties between the United States and Greece, emphasizing their shared commitment to democratic ideals. It highlights the Greek War of Independence, which began in 1821 and culminated in the establishment of a sovereign Greek state after centuries of Ottoman rule. The declaration acknowledges the revolution’s enduring global significance as a struggle for liberty, self-determination, and national identity. The proclamation celebrates the deep historical and philosophical connections between Greece and the United States, noting how ancient Greek principles of democracy, civic participation, and the rule of law influenced the American system of governance. It also recognizes the contributions of Greek-Americans to the United States, highlighting their roles in business, public service, science, and the arts. The annual White House celebration, a tradition dating back decades, typically brings together political leaders, members of the Greek diaspora, and representatives of the Greek Orthodox Church to honor the occasion. Trump’s declaration reaffirms the United States’ commitment to its alliance with Greece, emphasizing their shared democratic values and the importance of their partnership in promoting stability and freedom. The proclamation notes that Greece’s strategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean and its longstanding alliance with the US have made it a key partner in regional security.#united_states #greece #donald_trump #white_house #greek_independence_day
US-Iran Negotiations Proceed Amid War Tensions The White House confirmed that diplomatic talks with Iran are ongoing, despite Tehran’s refusal to immediately accept a 15-point plan to end the conflict. Two administration officials told CNN that the U.S. is working to arrange a meeting in Pakistan to discuss a potential resolution, or “off-ramp,” to the war. However, Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, denied that negotiations are taking place, stating that the U.S. shift in tone represents an admission of failure after previously demanding “unconditional surrender.” Araghchi emphasized that messages exchanged between the two sides through mediators do not constitute negotiations. “The fact that they are talking about negotiation now is exactly an admission of defeat,” he said during a televised interview. He also criticized the U.S. for sending multiple messages to Tehran via “friendly countries,” calling the communication an exchange of ideas rather than dialogue. Meanwhile, Iran has been preparing for a potential U.S. military operation by deploying military personnel and air defenses to Kharg Island, according to U.S. intelligence reports. The island, strategically located near the Strait of Hormuz, has become a focal point of the conflict. Iran also announced plans to charge countries a fee for safe passage through the strait, as tracking data shows multiple vessels have passed through the waterway. Congressional frustration over the war effort has grown, with members of the House Armed Services Committee expressing dissatisfaction with a recent briefing by Trump administration officials. Rep. Nancy Mace, a Republican, claimed she felt “misled” during the session and warned that prolonged conflict would erode public support. Rep. Clay Higgins acknowledged the briefing was “contentious,” while Rep.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #white_house #abbas_araghchi #kharg_island
Trump to hit Iran harder if Tehran does not accept defeat, White House says President Donald Trump warned that Iran would face even harsher consequences if the country refuses to acknowledge its military defeat, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Speaking during a press briefing on March 25, Leavitt emphasized that Trump does not engage in empty threats and is prepared to escalate actions against Iran if Tehran fails to recognize its position. "Iran should not miscalculate again," she stated, adding that the president would ensure the nation faces "the hardest hit it has ever been hit before" if it continues to resist the current reality. The U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran, now in its fourth week, has drawn international attention as multiple countries, including Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt, attempt to mediate the conflict. Despite these efforts, Iran remains engaged in discussions with Washington over a potential ceasefire. A senior Iranian official told Reuters that the country is still reviewing a U.S. proposal to end the war, though initial responses were negative. Leavitt confirmed that talks are ongoing, describing them as "productive" and aligned with Trump’s previous statements. Media reports cited unnamed sources claiming the U.S. had sent Tehran a 15-point plan to conclude the conflict. However, Leavitt disputed the accuracy of these reports, stating that while some elements of the plan may be true, the details were not fully confirmed. "The White House never confirmed that full plan," she said, warning against speculating on behalf of the president. She declined to provide specifics, emphasizing that the administration would not engage in negotiations during the briefing.#iran #united_states #trump #white_house #karoline_leavitt
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt to Address Media on Iran, Troop Deployments and TSA Disruptions White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is scheduled to hold a press briefing on Wednesday to address a series of pressing national and international issues, including military actions in the Middle East, immigration policy, and the ongoing impact of government funding delays. The briefing follows heightened tensions with Iran, a significant troop deployment to the region, and domestic challenges affecting federal operations. The briefing coincides with the Supreme Court’s consideration of a landmark immigration case that could redefine the conditions under which asylum seekers are permitted to request protection at the U.S.-Mexico border. This legal development has placed the administration’s immigration policies under increased scrutiny, as the court’s decision could alter the framework for border security and refugee protections. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has announced plans to deploy additional U.S. forces to the Middle East, including at least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division. This move comes amid escalating tensions with Iran, which has intensified its attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab nations. Iranian state media reported that Tehran rejected a U.S.-proposed 15-point ceasefire plan, despite the proposal being transmitted through Pakistan. Iran’s recent attacks, including a significant assault on Kuwait International Airport, have further complicated regional stability. Domestically, the administration faces criticism over the effects of the government funding stalemate, which has led to staffing shortages and operational delays at federal agencies.#iran #pentagon #white_house #karoline_leavitt #transportation_security_administration
White House Holds Briefing as Troops Deploy to Middle East White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt conducted a press briefing as the Pentagon announced the deployment of additional U.S. troops to the Middle East in connection with Operation Epic Fury, a military operation in Iran. The briefing came amid heightened tensions in the region, with officials emphasizing the strategic importance of the troop movement. Leavitt provided updates on the administration’s response to the escalating situation, highlighting coordination between military and civilian authorities. The deployment follows recent reports of increased activity in the area, including airstrikes and ground operations targeting Iranian military assets. Pentagon officials stated that the additional troops are being sent to reinforce existing forces and support ongoing efforts to stabilize the region. The operation is part of a broader strategy to address perceived threats to national security and regional stability. Analysts noted that the timing of the deployment aligns with growing concerns over Iran’s nuclear program and its regional influence. The White House has previously warned of the potential for further escalation, urging diplomatic engagement while maintaining a firm stance on security priorities. Leavitt reiterated the administration’s commitment to protecting U.S. interests and allies in the region. The briefing also addressed the impact of the troop movement on domestic policy, with officials emphasizing the need for bipartisan support to fund the operation. While no immediate changes to defense spending were announced, lawmakers are expected to debate the issue in the coming weeks. The administration has also called for increased intelligence sharing with regional partners to monitor developments.#iran #pentagon #white_house #operation_epic_fury #karoline_leavitt
Trump Outlines New AI Regulation Plan: What's in It and What's Missing The White House and Senator Marsha Blackburn have introduced a new policy framework for regulating generative artificial intelligence, but critics argue it lacks sufficient safeguards. The plan, known as the Trump America AI Act, aims to establish federal oversight of AI development, yet it has drawn criticism for prioritizing industry interests over consumer and privacy protections. The proposal, unveiled by the White House, emphasizes federal control over AI regulation, arguing that a patchwork of state laws would hinder the U.S. from competing globally. This stance aligns with President Donald Trump’s 2025 AI Action Plan, which called for centralized governance. However, the plan has faced pushback from advocacy groups, who claim it fails to address critical risks such as deepfakes, data privacy, and the impact of AI on vulnerable populations. One of the key areas addressed in the framework is the protection of children from AI-generated content, particularly deepfakes and harmful material. The White House acknowledges the risks of AI being used to exploit minors, citing high-profile cases where teenagers have been harmed by AI tools. However, the plan does not provide concrete measures to enforce these protections. Instead, it relies on existing laws like the Kids Online Safety Act and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule, which critics argue could lead to overregulation and censorship. The proposal also touches on the issue of job displacement caused by AI. While the White House highlights the need for workforce training and youth development programs, it does not address the broader economic impact on workers in legacy tech sectors.#white_house #trump_america_ai_act #marsha_blackburn #consumer_technology_association #center_for_democracy_and_technology
SEC Sends Proposed Crypto Interpretation to White House for Review The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has submitted its proposal to classify most cryptocurrency assets as non-securities under federal law to the White House’s Office of Management and Budget. According to records from the U.S. General Services Administration, the SEC sent two proposed rules to the White House on Friday, including an interpretative notice from last week that outlines which digital assets the agency would not consider securities. The proposal is currently marked as “pending review” in government records, signaling a potential shift in how the SEC regulates and enforces rules for digital assets. In its notice last week, SEC Chair Paul Atkins stated that the agency would not treat four categories of digital assets as securities: digital commodities, digital tools, digital collectibles (including non-fungible tokens), and stablecoins. The interpretation aims to establish a “coherent token taxonomy” for these assets and clarify whether non-security crypto assets could still qualify as investment contracts. If finalized, the rule would serve as a temporary framework for crypto regulation until Congress passes a comprehensive market structure bill to address digital assets. This interpretation follows the SEC’s signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), the other federal regulator expected to oversee digital assets under the proposed legislation. The White House reportedly reached “agreement in principle” on a crypto-related bill, according to Politico.#white_house #sec #commodity_futures_trading_commission #office_of_management_and_budget #clarity_act
White House Engages in Talks with Iran's Hardline Parliament Speaker U.S. President Donald Trump’s senior advisors, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, reportedly held discussions with Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the hardline speaker of Iran’s parliament, according to Israeli officials. The meeting, disclosed through Hebrew language media, marks a significant diplomatic development amid ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. Ghalibaf, a close associate of the late IRGC Qods Force commander Qassem Soleimani, has played a key role in suppressing domestic protests and has emerged as a central figure in Iran’s military decision-making process following the removal of several high-ranking officials through Israeli-U.S. operations. Trump claimed during a recent press briefing that the United States was in negotiations with a “respected leader” in Iran, though he did not specify the individual’s identity. The remarks came as the administration addressed potential scenarios involving the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil trade. When asked about U.S. control over the strait in such a scenario, Trump responded cryptically, suggesting a potential collaboration between American and Iranian authorities. The administration also discussed the possibility of lifting sanctions on Iran’s oil exports, with Trump emphasizing the need to “keep the system lubricated.” This statement reflects broader U.S. efforts to balance economic interests with strategic goals in the region. Additionally, Trump reiterated that the U.S. was engaging with Iran’s “most respected” leader, who has reportedly agreed to halt uranium enrichment activities. The negotiations underscore the complex dynamics of U.S.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #white_house #mohammad_bagher_ghalibaf #qassem_soleimani
