U.S. Politics and Policy: President Donald Trump has been making headlines with shifting tariff policies. Tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, initially set to take effect, have been delayed until April 2, with Trump suggesting they “could go up” depending on negotiations, particularly around curbing fentanyl flow into the U.S. This follows a week of reversals after economic pushback from automakers and stock market dips. Additionally, Trump is pushing to dismantle the Department of Education via an executive order, though experts note Congress holds the ultimate authority, and legal challenges are expected.
International Affairs: Senator Lindsey Graham warned that pausing U.S. military aid to Ukraine could lead to consequences “worse than Afghanistan,” urging continued support amid ongoing conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, the EU is showing signs of stepping up defense spending as U.S. support for Ukraine wavers. In Gaza, Israel has halted all goods and supplies, while Hamas accuses Israel of undermining a fragile ceasefire with new proposals.
Incidents and Emergencies: An armed man from Indiana was shot by Secret Service agents near the White House early Sunday while Trump was away. On Long Island, authorities are investigating possible arson behind wind-driven brush fires that injured two firefighters over the weekend. In Australia, Cyclone Alfred, downgraded to a tropical storm, is bringing heavy rain to Queensland and New South Wales.
Health and Religion: Pope Francis, hospitalized since mid-February for bronchitis, is showing “mild improvement” and penned a prayer thanking hospital staff, with the Vatican reporting he’s stable.
Space and Technology: SpaceX’s Starship rocket exploded during a test flight, with Elon Musk calling it a “minor setback,” though it marks the second failure this year, raising questions about the program’s timeline.
Time Change: Daylight saving time began last night in the U.S., with clocks springing forward an hour.
