Good evening everyone. This is a short update tonight as I am away from home, but I wanted to get this to you quickly. My wife and baby are both okay and resting, which gave me a moment to step away and send this out. There is a lot to cover, including Trump moving to sign an executive order to pay TSA agents, plans to put his name and signature on all U.S. currency, and the Iran war continuing to escalate as markets react with their worst drop since the conflict began.
Here’s the news:
- President Donald Trump said, “I am going to sign an Order… to immediately pay our TSA Agents… to address this Emergency Situation.” He framed the move as a response to airport disruptions during the DHS funding standoff. Trump also blamed Democrats for the ongoing chaos affecting travel. The announcement signals an attempt to bypass the stalemate and restore operations quickly. But, it also signals that he could have done this sooner, and did not:
- Vanity Fair has confirmed that the Treasury Department is reportedly planning to add President Donald Trump’s signature to all U.S. currency, replacing the traditional signature of the U.S. Treasurer. If implemented, it would be the first time a sitting president’s signature appears on American money. The change would place his signature alongside that of the Treasury secretary. The move would mark a significant break from longstanding norms in U.S. currency design. This is one potential mock-up:
- President Donald Trump said, “I used a mail in ballot… because I’m President of the United States… I felt I should be here,” explaining his vote in Florida. A reporter pushed back, noting, “But you were in Palm Beach,” contradicting his reasoning. The exchange raised questions about his explanation for using a mail-in ballot. It also drew attention to his past criticism of that voting method.
- U.S. and global markets fell sharply as optimism faded over a possible U.S.-Iran ceasefire, with the Nasdaq entering correction territory and major indexes posting significant losses. Oil prices surged—U.S. crude nearing $95 and Brent above $109—driving higher inflation expectations and raising concerns about long-term energy costs. Bond yields climbed as investors sold off Treasurys, pushing borrowing costs higher, including mortgage rates rising above 6.5%. Analysts warn continued geopolitical risk and disrupted oil transport could keep prices elevated despite political downplaying of the situation.
- According to NBC News, Iran is tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz by forcing tankers into a narrow route through its territory and charging high fees for passage. This has sharply reduced ship traffic through one of the world’s most important oil transit routes. The strategy signals Iran’s intent to assert longer-term dominance over the waterway despite ongoing conflict. It also raises concerns about global energy supply disruptions and increased geopolitical tension.
- Pete Hegseth criticized reporters over their coverage, telling them to “get it right” in a tense exchange. His remarks reflected frustration with media narratives rather than focusing on military operations or strategy. The tone of the response drew attention as unusually combative. The moment highlights ongoing tension between officials and the press during wartime coverage.
- Trump appeared to fall asleep during his cabinet meeting today drawing renewed attention and criticism.
- President Donald Trump announced a temporary pause on attacks targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure until April 6, saying the decision was made at Iran’s request. He stated that negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are ongoing and progressing positively. Trump also pushed back on media reports suggesting otherwise, calling them inaccurate. The pause appears aimed at creating space for continued diplomatic talks.
- A senior Iranian official denied to Dropsite News that Iran requested any pause in U.S. attacks, contradicting President Donald Trump’s claim that the delay was made at Iran’s request. Iranian leaders have repeatedly rejected assertions of direct talks or cooperation with the U.S. during the conflict. The conflicting statements highlight uncertainty and competing narratives around ongoing diplomacy and military decisions.
- A group of Venezuelan men deported from the U.S. to a prison in El Salvador filed a petition alleging torture, abuse, and severe mistreatment during their detention. They described beatings, sexual assault, poor living conditions, and lasting physical and psychological harm. Human rights groups argue the deportations violated international law and are seeking accountability and reparations. The case raises broader concerns about U.S. immigration practices and cooperation with countries accused of human rights abuses.
- Trump said, “I don't want a stupid person being president… I'm the only president that ever took a cognitive test… It’s actually a very hard test for a lot of people. It wasn't hard for me.”
- Donald Trump criticized German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier for calling the U.S.-Israel offensive against Iran a “dangerous mistake,” labeling the remark inappropriate. He argued that the U.S. has supported allies in conflicts like Ukraine, implying Germany’s stance was inconsistent. Trump suggested Steinmeier’s comments undermined allied unity during the conflict. The exchange highlights growing tensions between the U.S. and some European leaders over the war.
- According to Ryan Grim, new deployments of Naval Special Warfare teams, Tier 1 operators, and the 82nd Airborne suggest a significant military buildup. Combined with signals from Netanyahu hinting at a possible ceasefire, the moves may be strategic positioning rather than de-escalation. The timing and scale of forces indicate preparations for a potential ground operation. Overall, the situation points to heightened readiness for rapid escalation despite diplomatic messaging.
- Todd Blanche said all employees involved in past criminal investigations of President Donald Trump have been removed, resigned, or retired. The move follows broader efforts by the administration to reshape the Justice Department and FBI after those cases were dropped. Officials argue it restores trust and aligns the agencies with the administration’s agenda.
- Senate negotiators from both parties are pushing to end the DHS funding standoff, with Republicans presenting what they call a final offer. The proposal would fund most of the agency while limiting certain immigration enforcement spending, a key issue for Democrats. While there are signs of progress, disagreements remain and could still derail a deal. The prolonged standoff has already caused worker pay disruptions and travel delays, increasing pressure to reach an agreement.
- According to The Hill, Trump is expected to take executive action to address the TSA shutdown, which has caused major airport delays during the broader DHS funding standoff. Republicans see the prolonged disruption as a political risk and doubt Democrats will agree to current funding proposals. Trump has warned he may take drastic measures if the situation is not resolved quickly.
- According to Politico, The Kennedy Center has begun laying off staff as it prepares for a multiyear shutdown tied to renovations ordered under President Donald Trump’s leadership changes. The move follows his installation of new leadership and broader efforts to reshape the institution, including renaming it and appointing allies to key roles. The center has faced financial struggles and backlash from artists, some of whom have canceled performances in protest.
- The Justice Department opened an investigation into Ohio State’s medical school admissions after an official appeared to accidentally reveal it online. The probe focuses on whether the school’s policies comply with civil rights law following the end of affirmative action. Officials are seeking detailed applicant data, and similar investigations may expand to other universities. The move reflects a broader push to challenge diversity and equity practices in higher education.
- A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation to ban government officials from using insider information to trade on prediction markets. The bill targets elected officials, staffers, and executive branch employees amid growing concerns about misuse of nonpublic information. It reflects rising attention in Washington as prediction markets rapidly expand in popularity and influence. Lawmakers say the goal is to strengthen ethics rules and prevent public servants from profiting off privileged knowledge.
- Vice President JD Vance is launching a White House anti-fraud task force aimed at reducing federal spending by targeting waste, fraud, and abuse across major programs like Medicare and Medicaid. The initiative, created by executive order after Trump’s State of the Union, will focus on both prosecuting fraudsters and preventing improper payments before they occur Senior officials including FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson and top White House advisers will participate, with early attention on high-profile cases such as alleged fraud in Minnesota.
- A federal judge signaled he may push the Trump administration to allow Venezuela to pay for Nicolás Maduro’s legal defense despite sanctions blocking those funds. The dispute centers on whether denying payment undermines Maduro’s right to a fair defense in a complex criminal case. Prosecutors argue the restriction is tied to national security concerns, while the judge questioned that justification.
- According to The Guardian, the EPA approved expanded sales of higher-ethanol fuel to help lower gas prices as energy costs rise during the Iran war. The move aims to boost domestic biofuel use but has raised concerns about environmental impacts and potential damage to older vehicles. Experts say the price benefits may be limited and could be offset by higher food costs due to increased corn demand. The decision reflects efforts to address fuel prices while balancing economic and environmental tradeoffs.
See you soon.
— Aaron
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