Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• U.S. military conducted strike on boat in Eastern Pacific, killing three people — U.S. Southern Command announced that at the direction of Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, the U.S. military conducted a strike on a boat in the Eastern Pacific, killing three people. This followed a strike the previous day that also killed three people, bringing the total number of people killed by the Trump administration's boat strikes to more than 200.

Supporting reports

• U.S. carried out strikes in southern Iran while negotiating ceasefire — The U.S. conducted military strikes in southern Iran, described by officials as self-defense targeting missile sites and boats allegedly attempting to lay mines near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran reported shooting down a U.S. drone. The strikes occurred while negotiators worked toward a ceasefire in Qatar. By Friday, the administration claimed a peace deal was "very close," which Iran did not confirm. The White House had declared on May 1 that hostilities had "terminated," though fighting has continued.

Supporting reports

• Speaker Mike Johnson reportedly refused to attend an emergency Oval Office meeting with Trump regarding the weaponization fund controversy, marking a potential first instance of Johnson declining a direct presidential summons. — Trump called Speaker Mike Johnson to an emergency Oval Office meeting to discuss the weaponization fund controversy. According to four aides familiar with the meeting, Johnson refused to attend, potentially marking the first time the Speaker has declined a direct presidential request. A Johnson aide subsequently denied the report. The incident reflects tension between the White House and House leadership over the fund's political viability and fiscal impact.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson adjourned Congress early to prevent war powers vote — House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) sent representatives home a day early to prevent members from passing a war powers resolution that would have ordered Trump to remove U.S. troops from his military operations against Iran. The 1973 War Powers Act permits the president 60 days to conduct military operations before requiring congressional approval; that timeline expired on May 1, 2026. The administration claimed it did not need authorization because it had declared a ceasefire on April 7, though it continued to maintain a blockade against Iranian ports and exchange fire with Iranian forces.

Supporting reports

• House GOP cancels War Powers Resolution vote on Iran — House Republican leaders abruptly canceled a vote on an Iran War Powers Resolution that was likely to pass due to absences of Republican members and others who signaled support for the measure. The cancellation came after the Senate advanced a similar resolution earlier in the week to limit Trump's military action against Iran without congressional approval.
• House Republican leaders delayed Iran war-powers vote past Memorial Day recess — House Republican leaders delayed a vote on the Iran war-powers resolution into June, after appearing to lack the votes to defeat it. The measure's sponsor, Rep. Gregory Meeks, stated he believed it would have passed. A similar House resolution had fallen on a tie vote the week before. The delay postpones a constitutional confrontation over congressional war-declaration authority.
• House Republicans cancel scheduled war powers resolution vote on Iran conflict — House Speaker Mike Johnson canceled a scheduled Thursday vote on a war powers resolution that would have required President Trump to end the US war with Iran. The measure likely would have passed with bipartisan support. Democrats criticized the cancellation as cowardly avoidance of political embarrassment for Trump. The vote has been postponed until June. Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick stated the resolution would pass when brought to a vote again.
• House Republicans adjourned without voting on War Powers resolution — Rep. Johnny Olszewski (D-MD) reported that House Republicans did not have the votes to continue the war and decided to adjourn for the holiday instead of stopping the war. While the war continues, American taxpayers are paying tens of billions of dollars, service members are being lost, and gas prices are rising. The House closed up shop without addressing the War Powers resolution.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration granted Clean Air Act compliance pauses to 180+ polluting facilities — The Trump administration granted a two-year pause on compliance with the Clean Air Act to more than 180 facilities, including coal power plants and medical sterilizers, that are polluting in 38 states and Puerto Rico. The administration invoked a presidential exemption claiming the technology to implement pollution standards does not exist and that compliance poses a national security risk. The exemption was justified by citing a purported national energy emergency related to emerging industries like artificial intelligence and data centers. This authority has never been used before, and other utilities report they are already using the pollution controls the administration claims do not exist. Democratic senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Adam Schiff introduced legislation requiring congressional approval for future Clean Air Act pauses.

Supporting reports

• Trump announced naval escort mission for ships in Strait of Hormuz, warning Iran against interference. — Trump posted on Truth Social announcing "Project Freedom," a mission to escort neutral ships out of the Strait of Hormuz beginning Monday. He stated the US would guide ships safely through restricted waterways and warned that any interference with this "humanitarian process" would "have to be dealt with forcefully." The announcement framed the operation as assistance to countries uninvolved in the Middle Eastern dispute whose vessels are trapped due to the ongoing Iran conflict.
• Project Freedom collapses after Saudi and Kuwaiti blockade — Project Freedom, an apparent U.S. military initiative, collapsed after Saudi Arabia and Kuwait blocked American military access. The blockade by key regional allies represents a significant diplomatic and strategic setback for the administration's Middle East posture.
• Trump announced and then abruptly halted "Project Freedom" military operation — Trump announced "Project Freedom" on social media as a way to break Iran's blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, surprising Gulf allies and angering leadership in Saudi Arabia. Top national security leaders spent much of Tuesday publicly briefing about the effort at the Pentagon and White House. Approximately 36 hours after the announcement, Trump abruptly halted the operation. The reversal came after Saudi Arabia suspended the U.S. military's ability to use Prince Sultan Airbase and Saudi airspace to carry out the operation. A call between Trump and Saudi Crown Prince MBS did not resolve the issue. Other close Gulf allies, including Qatar, were also caught off guard by the announcement and had not been consulted beforehand.
• Project Freedom Collapses After Saudi Arabia and Kuwait Block U.S. Military Access — Project Freedom, a U.S. military initiative, has collapsed after Saudi Arabia and Kuwait blocked U.S. military access. This development marks a significant setback for U.S. military strategy in the Middle East and reflects shifting alliances and regional dynamics.

Supporting reports

• Trump announced "Project Freedom" to escort merchant ships through Strait of Hormuz — President Trump announced that on Monday the U.S. will launch "Project Freedom," an effort to escort stranded merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command stated that Project Freedom will include "guided-missile destroyers, over 100 land and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms, and 15,000 service members." Iran has stated that the use of U.S. Navy ships for escort would violate the ceasefire; it is unclear whether Navy ships will participate. Trump characterized the effort as "humanitarian," citing ships stuck from the strait's closure running low on supplies and facing sanitation problems, though the administration is clearly attempting to challenge Iran's control of the strait.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration claims War Powers Resolution compliance by declaring Iran war "terminated" despite ongoing blockade — The Trump administration argued on Friday that it did not require congressional approval under the 1973 War Powers Resolution at the 60-day mark because the war with Iran had "terminated" on April 7, despite the U.S. continuing to enforce a blockade of Iranian ports—an act of war. When asked how the war could be terminated while the military enforced the blockade, Trump told reporters it was a "very friendly blockade" that "nobody's even challenging." Senator Tammy Duckworth challenged the claim as false, noting that U.S. and Iranian ships were exchanging missile fire in the Strait of Hormuz.
• Secretary of State announces shift in military operations against Iran — Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the military operation known as Epic Fury against Iran has concluded, transitioning to a new phase called Project Freedom, which aims to open the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement comes after the deadline set by the War Powers Act for congressional approval of military action.
• Secretary of State Rubio announced end of Operation Epic Fury and transition to Project Freedom — Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters that Operation Epic Fury, the military campaign against Iran, is concluded and the administration is transitioning to Project Freedom, an effort to open the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement came after the May 1 deadline imposed by the 1973 War Powers Act, which required either congressional approval or withdrawal of troops within 60 days of notifying Congress of military action.
• Trump claims war has "terminated" to avoid War Powers Act compliance — The Trump administration insists the war with Iran has "terminated," a characterization that would exempt the president from the requirement under the 1973 War Powers Act to either withdraw troops or obtain congressional approval for continuing military actions. This claim is made despite ongoing military exchanges in the Strait of Hormuz.

Supporting reports

• President exempts Air Force jet fighter training from Clean Water Act requirements in Idaho, Oregon, Nevada — The President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-07, exempting U.S. Air Force jet fighter training operations in Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada from Federal, State, interstate, and local water pollution control requirements under the Clean Water Act for one year (April 20, 2026–April 20, 2027). The exemption applies to operations subject to ongoing litigation in Oregon Natural Desert Ass'n v. Meink. The determination invokes section 313 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, citing paramount national interest. Certain statutory provisions (33 U.S.C. 1316 and 1317) remain applicable.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to declare coal supply chains and baseload power generation essential to national defense, waiving procedural requirements. — On April 20, 2026, the President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-08, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare coal supply chains, mining, logistics, terminals, and baseload power generation capacity essential to national defense. The determination cites a prior national energy emergency declaration and asserts that without presidential action, U.S. industry cannot timely provide these capabilities due to financing constraints and regulatory delays. The President waives procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and directs the Secretary of Energy to implement the determination through purchases, commitments, and financial instruments.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand domestic grid infrastructure manufacturing capacity — The President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-10 on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act to declare grid infrastructure and supply chains (transformers, transmission lines, substations, power electronics, and related materials) essential to national defense. The determination finds that domestic production capacity is dangerously limited and foreign-dependent, posing a threat to defense readiness. The President waives procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic manufacturing capability.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity as national defense priority. — The President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-11 on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity essential to national defense. The determination, published April 23, 2026, finds that without federal action, U.S. industry cannot provide these capabilities in a timely manner due to financing constraints, permitting bottlenecks, and supply chain limitations. The President waives certain procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and authorizes the Secretary of Energy to implement the determination through purchases, commitments, and financial instruments to expand domestic petroleum capacity.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand natural gas and LNG capacity as national defense priority — The President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-12 on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare natural gas transmission, processing, storage, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity essential to national defense. The determination finds that without presidential action, U.S. industry cannot timely provide these capabilities due to financing constraints, permitting delays, and infrastructure bottlenecks. The President waives standard procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic natural gas and LNG infrastructure.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to prioritize large-scale energy infrastructure development, manufacturing, and deployment as essential to national defense. — On April 20, 2026, the President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-09, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare that development, manufacturing, and deployment of large-scale energy and energy-related infrastructure are essential to national defense. The determination, made pursuant to Executive Order 14156 (declaring a national energy emergency), finds that domestic capability cannot be met under existing market conditions due to financing risks, regulatory delays, and market barriers. The President waives certain procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and authorizes the Secretary of Energy to implement the determination through purchases, commitments, and financial instruments.
• Trump invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to authorize federal purchases and financial support for domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum determining that domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity constitute industrial resources essential to national defense under Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950. The memorandum, issued pursuant to a January 2025 national energy emergency declaration, authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand petroleum infrastructure, citing constrained financing, permitting bottlenecks, and supply chain limitations as barriers. The determination waives standard procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) of the Act.
• Trump issues Presidential Determination exempting Air Force jet fighter training from Clean Water Act regulations — President Trump signed a Presidential Determination on April 20, 2026, granting U.S. Air Force jet fighter training operations in Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada a one-year exemption from certain Clean Water Act regulations. The fact sheet states the exemption prioritizes national security and military readiness while claiming compliance with "toughest Federal standards." The determination removes what the administration characterizes as "unnecessary obstacles" to pilot training and operational effectiveness.
• Trump issues presidential determination invoking Defense Production Act Section 303 to authorize federal action on large-scale energy infrastructure development and financing — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare that development, manufacturing, and deployment of large-scale energy and energy-related infrastructure are essential to national defense. The determination, issued pursuant to a prior national energy emergency declaration (Executive Order 14156), authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic energy infrastructure capability, citing financing risks, regulatory delays, and market barriers as obstacles. The memorandum waives standard procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) of the Act.
• Trump issues presidential determination invoking Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand domestic grid infrastructure manufacturing capacity — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum determining that grid infrastructure and supply chains—including transformers, transmission lines, substations, and related equipment—are essential to national defense under Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950. The determination, issued pursuant to the January 20, 2025 National Energy Emergency declaration, authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic production capacity. The memorandum waives procedural requirements of Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) to expedite implementation.
• Trump issues Presidential Determination invoking Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand natural gas and LNG capacity — President Trump issued a Presidential Determination under Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, declaring natural gas transmission, processing, storage, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity to be industrial resources essential to national defense. The determination, issued pursuant to the national energy emergency declared in Executive Order 14156 (January 20, 2025), authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, financial commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic natural gas and LNG infrastructure, waiving standard procedural requirements under the Act.
• Trump issues presidential determination invoking Defense Production Act to expand coal supply chains and baseload power generation — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare coal supply chains and baseload power generation capacity essential to national defense. The determination finds that without presidential action, U.S. industry cannot provide these capabilities in a timely manner due to financing constraints and regulatory delays. The memorandum directs the Secretary of Energy to implement the determination, including making purchases, commitments, and financial instruments to expand coal supply chain capacity and baseload generation availability, and waives certain procedural requirements of the Act.
• White House issues presidential memorandum exempting Air Force jet fighter training from Clean Water Act requirements — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on April 20, 2026, exempting the U.S. Air Force's jet fighter training operations in Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada from federal, state, interstate, and local water pollution control requirements under the Clean Water Act for a one-year period (April 20, 2026 to April 20, 2027). The memorandum cites section 313 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and notes that some operations are subject to ongoing litigation in Oregon Natural Desert Association v. Meink. The exemption does not apply to certain specific statutory provisions (33 U.S.C. 1316 and 1317).
• Trump signs memos invoking Defense Production Act to expand domestic fossil fuel production — On Monday, President Trump released multiple memoranda citing his January 2025 national energy emergency declaration, directing the energy secretary to expand US oil, coal, and natural gas production under the Defense Production Act. Trump claimed inadequate domestic energy supply poses a national security threat and ordered federal action to ensure "resilient domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity." The memos authorized the energy secretary to make purchases, commitments, and financial instruments to enable fossil fuel projects.

Supporting reports

• Trump threatened renewed military action if ceasefire terms not met — By Wednesday night, Trump backed away from celebratory statements about the ceasefire and posted a lengthy threat that all U.S. military assets would remain in place around Iran until the "REAL AGREEMENT" was fully complied with. He threatened that if compliance did not occur, "the 'Shootin' Starts,' bigger, and better, and stronger than anyone has ever seen before," and reiterated demands that Iran have no nuclear weapons and the Strait of Hormuz remain open.
• Trump threatens military action against Iran while contradicting his own deal claims — Trump posted threats on Truth Social declaring that all U.S. ships, aircraft, and military personnel will remain positioned around Iran until the "REAL AGREEMENT" is fully complied with. He threatened that if compliance does not occur, "Shootin' Starts, bigger, and better, and stronger than anyone has ever seen before." Trump also announced that Iran agreed to no nuclear weapons and an open Strait of Hormuz—terms that directly contradict his simultaneous claim that the ten-point framework is a fake hoax, since those terms originate from that framework. He stated the U.S. military is "Loading Up and Resting, looking forward, actually, to its next Conquest."
• Trump threatened renewed military action against Iran — Trump posted on Truth Social that all U.S. ships, aircraft, and military personnel will remain in place around Iran with additional ammunition and weaponry for the "lethal prosecution and destruction" of Iran until the ceasefire agreement is fully complied with. He stated that if compliance does not occur, "the 'Shootin' Starts," bigger and stronger than ever before. He also reiterated that no nuclear weapons and an open Strait of Hormuz were agreed terms.

Supporting reports

• Trump signed executive order directing DHS to create federal citizen list for voter eligibility using flawed SAVE database — President Trump signed an executive order last week directing the Department of Homeland Security to use the SAVE database and other sources to create, for each state, a list of confirmed U.S. citizens eligible to vote in federal elections. The order then directs the Department of Justice to prosecute individuals and entities involved in printing, producing, or distributing ballots to anyone not on the list. SAVE is an incomplete database designed for benefits eligibility, not citizenship verification, and has produced error rates exceeding 80% in pilot deployments. The order effectively coerces states to purge voters or face federal criminal charges.

Supporting reports

• Trump threatens journalist and demands source disclosure under threat of prosecution — Trump stated his administration will contact and potentially jail the reporter who published an article revealing that a second U.S. F-15E pilot was missing, unless the journalist discloses the name of the person who leaked the information. Trump characterized the disclosure as "leaking" and threatened prosecution.
• Trump threatens to jail journalists for revealing military information — During a White House press conference, President Trump threatened to jail journalists from an unnamed media outlet if they do not identify their source who revealed that a second U.S. airman was missing after Iran shot down a U.S. fighter jet. Trump stated the administration would tell the media company "national security, give it up or go to jail."

Supporting reports

• White House officials told Trump Iran's civilian infrastructure is legitimate wartime target — According to reporting by the Wall Street Journal, Trump's aides have been advising him that Iran's civilian infrastructure is a legitimate wartime target, contrary to expert consensus that such attacks are illegal under international law. Defense Secretary Hegseth has embraced this argument, claiming that attacking infrastructure would impede Iran's nuclear weapons development. A White House official added that destroying electric plants could foment civil unrest to further hinder nuclear production.

Supporting reports

• Trump proclamation imposes 100% tariffs on patented pharmaceuticals and APIs, with reduced rates for companies committing to domestic production and MFN pricing agreements. — President Trump issued Proclamation 11020 invoking Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, determining that imports of patented pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients threaten U.S. national security due to heavy reliance on foreign production (53% of patented drugs, 85% of APIs). The proclamation imposes a 100% ad valorem duty on patented pharmaceuticals and APIs effective July 31, 2026, with reduced rates (20% declining to 100% over four years, or zero) for companies with approved onshoring plans or MFN pricing agreements. Generic pharmaceuticals are exempted. The Secretaries of Commerce and Health and Human Services are directed to negotiate agreements addressing the supply chain vulnerability.
• Trump proclamation strengthens metal tariffs, expands scope to full customs value, raises rates to 50 percent for aluminum and steel. — President Trump issued Proclamation 11021 on April 2, 2026, modifying tariff regimes on aluminum, steel, and copper imports established under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The proclamation expands tariffs to apply to the full customs value of metal articles and derivatives, regardless of metal content. Primary tariff rates are set at 50 percent for most aluminum and steel articles and certain copper articles, with 25 percent rates for other copper and derivative articles. Reduced rates of 10–15 percent apply to products from the United Kingdom and articles made entirely from U.S.-origin metals. The proclamation terminates prior derivative-inclusion processes and authorizes the Secretary of Commerce and U.S. Trade Representative to add derivative articles on a rolling basis. Effective April 6, 2026.
• Trump threatens 100% tariff on pharmaceutical companies refusing pricing deals — Donald Trump announced an executive order threatening 100% tariffs on branded pharmaceutical drugs and active ingredients from companies that do not strike pricing agreements with the White House or increase domestic manufacturing. Generic drugs are exempted for at least one year. Large companies have 120 days and smaller companies 180 days to negotiate deals; 17 drugmakers have already secured exemptions. The policy aims to pressure drugmakers to lower US prices to levels comparable with other high-income countries.
• Trump issues executive order imposing tariffs on pharmaceutical imports under Section 232 national security authority — President Trump issued an executive order on April 2, 2026, imposing a 100 percent ad valorem tariff on imported patented pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), effective July 31, 2026 for listed companies and September 29, 2026 for others. The order provides reduced tariff rates (20 percent, 15 percent, or zero) for companies with approved onshoring plans, those in trade agreements with specific countries (EU, Japan, Korea, Switzerland, UK), or those entering MFN pricing agreements. Generic pharmaceuticals are excluded from tariffs. The Secretary of Commerce and HHS are directed to negotiate agreements to address alleged national security threats from pharmaceutical import dependence.
• President Trump issued proclamation modifying tariff regimes on aluminum, steel, and copper imports — President Trump signed Proclamation 10963 on April 2, 2026, modifying tariffs on aluminum, steel, and copper imports under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The proclamation directs that ad valorem tariffs apply to the full customs value of metal articles and derivatives, effective April 6, 2026. Primary rates are set at 50 percent for most aluminum and steel articles and certain copper articles, with 25 percent rates for other copper and derivative articles. Reduced rates of 25 percent and 15 percent apply to United Kingdom products, and 10 percent rates apply to articles made entirely from U.S.-origin metals. The proclamation terminates prior derivative-inclusion processes and authorizes the Secretary of Commerce and U.S. Trade Representative to add derivative articles on a rolling basis. Russia-origin aluminum remains subject to 200 percent duties. The order directs monitoring and a 90-day status update.
• Trump issued proclamation imposing tariffs on patented pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical ingredients under Section 232 national security authority — President Trump signed a proclamation on April 2, 2026, invoking Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to impose tariffs on patented pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical ingredients. The proclamation imposes a 100 percent ad valorem duty on most patented drugs and APIs, with reduced rates (20 percent, 15 percent, or zero) for companies meeting onshoring, pricing agreement, or trade framework conditions. The order directs the Secretaries of Commerce and Health and Human Services to negotiate agreements within 90 days and exempts generic pharmaceuticals, orphan drugs, and certain specialty products from tariffs.
• White House issued fact sheet on strengthened tariffs for steel, aluminum, and copper imports — The White House published a fact sheet on April 2, 2026, describing a proclamation signed by President Trump that restructures tariffs on imported steel, aluminum, and copper. The fact sheet states the proclamation establishes tiered tariff rates: 50% on articles made entirely or almost entirely of these metals; 25% on derivative articles substantially composed of them; 15% on certain industrial and electrical grid equipment through 2027; 10% on products made abroad entirely with American metals; and exempts products containing 15% or less of these metals. The fact sheet claims the tariffs protect national security and domestic manufacturing, citing new steelmaking capacity and smelting operations announced or underway.
• White House issued fact sheet promoting pharmaceutical tariffs under Section 232 — The White House issued a fact sheet on April 2, 2026, promoting tariffs imposed by President Trump on patented pharmaceutical products and ingredients under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The fact sheet states a 100% base tariff applies, with reduced rates (15%) for trade-deal countries, 0% for companies entering onshoring and MFN pricing agreements with HHS and Commerce, and 20% for onshoring-only agreements. Generic drugs and certain specialty products are exempt. The fact sheet claims the tariffs have already spurred approximately $400 billion in investment commitments.

Supporting reports

• Endangered Species Committee votes to exempt Gulf of Mexico oil and gas drilling from ESA protections — The Endangered Species Committee, convened for the first time in over 30 years, voted unanimously to grant an exemption from the Endangered Species Act for oil and gas drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth requested the exemption citing national security concerns related to Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and global energy prices. The exemption could jeopardize the Rice's whale (51 remaining), whooping cranes, sea turtles, and other marine species. Environmental groups have pledged legal challenges.
• Endangered Species Committee grants exemption for Gulf of America oil and gas activities from Endangered Species Act requirements — The Endangered Species Committee, by unanimous vote on March 31, 2026, granted an exemption under section 7(h) of the Endangered Species Act for Gulf of America Oil and Gas Activities based on a national security finding by the Secretary of War. The exemption exempts federal agencies from consultation, jeopardy, and adverse modification mandates, and prohibits the taking of endangered species in connection with covered oil and gas exploration, development, and production activities in federal and state waters of the Gulf of America.
• Complaint filed — Healthy Gulf v. Endangered Species Committee, Secretary of Defense (D.D.C. 1:26-cv-01118) — Conservation nonprofits filed a complaint challenging an Endangered Species Committee decision issued March 31, 2026, granting a categorical exemption excusing all oil and gas activities in the Gulf of America from Endangered Species Act requirements. The exemption was based on a March 13, 2026 National Security Finding by the Secretary of Defense asserting that litigation threatens national security. Plaintiffs allege the Committee bypassed mandatory ESA procedures, including public hearings and formal reports, and that the Finding lacks evidence of irreconcilable conflict between species protection and oil production. Plaintiffs seek declaratory relief and vacatur of both the Finding and the Exemption.

Supporting reports

• Trump signs executive order directing DHS to immediately pay TSA agents during partial shutdown — President Trump signed an executive order on Friday, March 28, 2026, instructing the Department of Homeland Security to immediately pay Transportation Security Administration agents who had gone without pay for over 42 days due to a partial government shutdown. The order came after House Republicans rejected a Senate-passed funding deal for key DHS subagencies. Trump blamed Democrats for prioritizing "criminal illegal aliens" over American citizens. DHS confirmed TSA began paying its workforce immediately, with officers potentially receiving paychecks by March 30. The shutdown had caused nationwide staffing shortages, record airport wait times, and nearly 500 TSA resignations.
• Trump signs presidential memorandum directing DHS to pay TSA employees from available funds — Trump signed a presidential memorandum late Friday, March 28, directing DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin to restore pay to TSA employees who had missed two paychecks. The memo instructed the secretary to redirect funds "that have a reasonable and logical nexus to TSA operations" to cover accrued pay and benefits. White House border czar Tom Homan stated the measure was "a start" but acknowledged thousands of other DHS employees remained unpaid and that ICE deployment at airports would continue pending TSA staffing recovery.
• Trump announces emergency order to pay TSA agents — President Trump announced he would sign an emergency order to pay TSA agents who have gone unpaid for over a month, although the legality and source of the funding remain unclear. This announcement came amid growing airport congestion and dissatisfaction with the handling of TSA funding.
• Trump issued executive order to pay TSA employees during 44-day DHS funding impasse — During a record-breaking 44-day Department of Homeland Security funding impasse, Trump issued an executive order to authorize payment of TSA employees. The shutdown resulted from Republican infighting between the House and Senate over DHS funding, with House Republicans rejecting a Senate proposal. House Speaker Johnson sided with House Republicans against Senate Majority Leader Thune's approach. TSA agents reported receiving only partial paychecks despite the executive order authorization.
• Trump declared national emergency to pay TSA officers during DHS shutdown — The White House issued a fact sheet stating that President Trump declared a national emergency to authorize payment of TSA officers who had gone unpaid during a Department of Homeland Security shutdown. The document claims Trump also deployed ICE officers to major airports to assist with crowd control and security. The fact sheet cites media reports indicating that TSA wait times improved after workers received back pay and absenteeism declined.
• Trump signs executive order directing TSA back pay during DHS partial shutdown — Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the Transportation Security Administration to pay employees back pay during an ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. TSA employees received retroactive paychecks covering at least two full pay periods on Monday. The order instructed DHS to use funds with "reasonable and logical nexus to TSA operations" to cover salaries. Airport security lines reportedly shortened following the payment. Congress remains deadlocked over DHS funding, with Democrats and Republicans disagreeing over guardrails on immigration enforcement operations.

Supporting reports

• Trump announces executive order directing DHS to pay TSA agents immediately amid funding standoff — President Trump announced he will sign an executive order instructing DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin to immediately pay Transportation Security Administration agents who have gone without pay for over a month due to a partial DHS shutdown. TSA staffing shortages have caused record airport delays and nearly 500 agents have quit. The order addresses an impasse where Democrats have refused to fund DHS without ICE accountability reforms, while Trump has demanded Democratic support for the Save America Act, which would tighten voter registration and identification requirements.
• Trump signs executive order to pay TSA agents during shutdown — President Trump announced via Truth Social that he would sign an executive order directing DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin to immediately pay 50,000 TSA agents during the ongoing DHS shutdown. Trump invoked a national emergency to justify the action. Senate Majority Leader Thune acknowledged the order as a "short-term solution" that takes "immediate pressure off" Congress to reach a funding deal.
• Trump signs executive order to pay TSA workers during shutdown — President Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security to immediately pay 60,000 airport security workers, declaring an "unprecedented emergency situation." The order came as TSA officers went weeks without pay during the ongoing partial government shutdown. Trump blamed Democrats for the shutdown, accusing them of prioritizing "criminal illegal aliens over American citizens." Acting TSA Chief Ha Nguyen McNeill reported that 40% of officers had stopped reporting to work and nearly 500 had quit since the previous month.
• Trump announced emergency order to pay TSA agents — President Trump announced he would sign an emergency executive order to pay TSA agents who had been without paychecks for over a month. The announcement came after the contrast of unpaid TSA workers and paid ICE agents created public pressure on the administration. It remained unclear where the funding would come from or whether the executive action to appropriate funds—a power constitutionally vested in Congress—was legally permissible.
• White House issued memorandum directing DHS and OMB to pay TSA employees during government shutdown — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on March 27, 2026, directing the Secretary of Homeland Security and Director of the Office of Management and Budget to use funds with "reasonable and logical nexus" to TSA operations to compensate approximately 60,000 TSA employees, including 50,000 security officers, who had not been paid during an ongoing Department of Homeland Security shutdown. The memorandum characterizes the situation as an emergency compromising national security due to security wait times and staff attrition.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration announced ICE agents would replace TSA agents — The Trump administration announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents would take the place of some Transportation Security Administration agents. Former national security officials noted that the legality of moving ICE agents into TSA positions is unclear.
• Tom Homan announced ICE deployment to airports beginning next day — When asked on CNN whether ICE agents would move into American airports starting the next day, Tom Homan responded: "Yes. I'm currently working on the plan. We'll execute tomorrow." When pressed on whether ICE agents are trained to handle airport security, Homan claimed they "receive high-level training" and compared the task to "guard an exit to make sure no one comes through that exit." Sen. Patty Murray and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries expressed concerns about untrained ICE agents potentially brutalizing or killing Americans at airports.
• Trump announced ICE deployment to airports to assist TSA — Trump announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents would be deployed to airports to assist the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Border Czar Tom Homan acknowledged there was no detailed operational plan beyond "guarding exits." The deployment positioned immigration enforcement as airport security during a period when international tourism and the World Cup were approaching.
• ICE agents deployed to US airports to assist TSA amid government shutdown — President Trump and border czar Tom Homan announced and deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to major US airports beginning Monday, March 23, to assist Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents with security screening and exit monitoring. The deployment occurred amid a partial government shutdown that began February 14, leaving TSA agents unpaid for over a month. More than 400 TSA agents have resigned and others called out sick, creating hours-long security lines. Homan stated ICE officers would handle non-specialized tasks like monitoring exits to free TSA agents for screening duties, though operational details remained unclear.
• Trump deploys ICE agents to US airports during TSA shutdown — President Trump deployed ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents to 11 major US airports on March 23, 2026, as TSA screening agents went unpaid during a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown. The deployment occurred amid a budget impasse triggered by Democratic demands for accountability following ICE killings in Minneapolis and documented warrantless detention practices. TSA agents missed their second paycheck, with hundreds reportedly quitting and many refusing to report for duty, causing security lines to stretch for hours across the country.
• ICE agents were deployed to U.S. airports in tactical gear. — Trump deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to airports across the country, where they appeared in tactical gear. Travelers and media posted videos of agents "milling around in tactical gear mostly doing absolutely nothing other than getting in people's way." Trump stated ICE would arrest undocumented migrants at airports and indicated the National Guard could be deployed if needed. Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the move as part of Trump's standard playbook.
• Trump administration deployed ICE agents to major airports — President Trump confirmed that his administration would deploy ICE agents to major airports across the country on March 23, ostensibly to assist TSA agents who had been working without pay for over a month due to a Department of Homeland Security shutdown. At least one person was violently arrested by ICE at an airport following the announcement. Former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon subsequently stated on his podcast that the deployment could serve as "a test run…to really perfect ICE's involvement in the 2026 midterms," calling it "perfect training."
• Trump administration deploys ICE agents to airports for security support amid TSA staffing crisis — The Trump administration deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to U.S. airports to provide "non-specialized security support" including exit lane manning, crowd management, and line control. This deployment follows a partial government shutdown since mid-February that has caused TSA officer shortages—more than 450 TSA officers quit during the shutdown—and long security lines. Acting TSA Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl told Fox News ICE would help alleviate challenges facing TSA officers. The shutdown stems from Senate disagreement over immigration enforcement reforms tied to TSA funding.
• Trump deploys ICE agents to airports amid DHS funding shutdown — President Trump deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to airports on Monday, citing the need to ease congestion at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints caused by the ongoing DHS funding lapse. The funding shutdown, which began in mid-February, has resulted in hours-long security lines at some airports. Trump framed the ICE deployment as a response to operational necessity, though the move places immigration enforcement personnel in civilian airport security roles during a period when Democrats are demanding stronger oversight of immigration agents.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration invokes Defense Production Act to force reopening of California offshore oil pipeline — On Friday, March 15, 2026, the Trump administration ordered the reopening of the Santa Ynez offshore oil pipeline system in California, which had been closed since 2015 following a major oil spill. Energy Secretary Chris Wright invoked emergency powers under the Defense Production Act, citing national security and military readiness amid the US-Israel war on Iran. Sable Offshore Corporation, the Houston-based operator, announced oil was flowing through the system by Monday, March 18. California Governor Gavin Newsom immediately threatened legal action and the state parks department ordered removal of the pipeline from Gaviota State Park.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration invokes Defense Production Act to force reopening of California offshore oil pipeline — On Friday, March 15, 2026, the Trump administration ordered the reopening of the Santa Ynez offshore oil pipeline system in California, which had been closed since 2015 following a major oil spill. Energy Secretary Chris Wright invoked emergency powers under the Defense Production Act, citing national security and military readiness amid the US-Israel war on Iran. Sable Offshore Corporation, the Houston-based operator, announced oil was flowing through the system by Monday, March 18. California Governor Gavin Newsom immediately threatened legal action and the state parks department ordered removal of the pipeline from Gaviota State Park.

Supporting reports

• Energy secretary Chris Wright restarts Sable Offshore pipeline under Trump Defense Production Act order — US energy secretary Chris Wright restarted the Sable Offshore pipeline system using powers granted by Trump through an executive order invoking the Defense Production Act. The pipeline, which links the Santa Ynez offshore platform to California refineries, had been shut down following a 2015 spill that released over 100,000 gallons of crude oil. Wright's restart order superseded California state law and court orders. Sable Offshore began shipping hydrocarbons on March 14 and expects to sell 50,000 barrels per day by April 1, 2026.
• Trump administration invokes Defense Production Act to force reopening of California offshore oil pipeline — On Friday, March 15, 2026, the Trump administration ordered the reopening of the Santa Ynez offshore oil pipeline system in California, which had been closed since 2015 following a major oil spill. Energy Secretary Chris Wright invoked emergency powers under the Defense Production Act, citing national security and military readiness amid the US-Israel war on Iran. Sable Offshore Corporation, the Houston-based operator, announced oil was flowing through the system by Monday, March 18. California Governor Gavin Newsom immediately threatened legal action and the state parks department ordered removal of the pipeline from Gaviota State Park.

Supporting reports

• Trump signs Executive Order 14391 amending Defense Production Act delegations to include Secretary of Energy alongside Secretary of Commerce — President Trump signed Executive Order 14391 on March 13, 2026, amending Executive Order 13603 to delegate Defense Production Act authorities jointly to the Secretary of Commerce and Secretary of Energy, each exercising authority independently. The order also clarifies that agency heads need not recommend action to the President when they already possess delegated authority under prior executive orders. The amendment expands the Secretary of Energy's role in national defense resource preparedness decisions.
• Trump issued executive order adjusting Defense Production Act delegations to Secretary of Energy — President Trump issued Executive Order amending Executive Order 13603 to grant the Secretary of Energy independent authority alongside the Secretary of Commerce to exercise delegated powers under the Defense Production Act (50 U.S.C. 4501 et seq.). The order also clarified that agency heads need only recommend action to the President when the President alone holds authority and has not delegated it. The amendment expands the Secretary of Energy's role in national defense resource preparedness and supply chain management.
• White House signed Executive Order 14391 adjusting Defense Production Act delegations — The White House signed Executive Order 14391 on March 13, 2026, amending Executive Order 13603 to grant the Secretary of Energy independent authority alongside the Secretary of Commerce to exercise delegated powers under the Defense Production Act. The order also clarifies that agency heads need not recommend action to the President when they already possess delegated authority. The order states it amends prior national defense resource preparedness authorities and clarifies a January 2025 national energy emergency order.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration bypassed Congress to expedite bomb sales to Israel — The Trump administration bypassed Congress using emergency authority to expedite the sale of more than 20,000 bombs to Israel worth approximately $650 million. Secretary of State Marco Rubio determined that an emergency existed requiring immediate sale and waived congressional review requirements. The weapons package included 12,000 BLU-110A/B general purpose 1,000-pound bomb bodies.

Supporting reports

• Trump proclaims commitment to countering cartel criminal activity in Western Hemisphere — President Trump issued Proclamation 11015 on March 7, 2026, declaring a sustained U.S. commitment to dismantling cartels and foreign terrorist organizations in the Western Hemisphere. The proclamation designates cartels and transnational gangs as foreign terrorist organizations, announces the establishment of the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition comprising military leaders from 17 countries, and commits to coordinating with allies to deprive these organizations of territory, financing, and resources. The proclamation authorizes use of "any necessary resources and legally available authorities" and calls for training and mobilizing partner nation militaries to achieve effective fighting forces.
• Trump issued proclamation on countering cartel criminal activity in Western Hemisphere — President Trump issued a proclamation on March 7, 2026, declaring commitment to dismantling cartels and foreign terrorist organizations in the Western Hemisphere. The proclamation states the administration has designated cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, established the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition with 17 countries, and commits to using "any necessary resources and legally available authorities" to defeat these threats. It directs coordination with allies to deprive organizations of territory, financing, and resources, and to train and mobilize partner nation militaries.

Supporting reports

• Trump orders DFC to insure vessels in Strait of Hormuz; fund faces $200 billion shortfall — Trump ordered the US Development Finance Corporation to insure vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz amid Middle East conflict. The DFC has only $154 billion of the $352 billion needed to underwrite required insurance policies, leaving a $200 billion shortfall. Raising the DFC's liability cap would require Congressional action. Strait traffic has declined 92%; nearly 20 million barrels per day of oil supply are frozen.