The White House has confirmed that tariffs imposed during the Trump administration will stay in place despite a recent court decision that found many of these tariffs illegal. Top US officials have indicated they will use other legal methods to keep pressure on China and other countries to negotiate trade agreements. The current 90-day pause on some of the highest tariffs is expected to end in July without extension.
On May 12, the US and China agreed to pause their escalating trade war by halting reciprocal tariffs that had reached as high as 125 percent on both sides. This pause aimed to prevent further damage to the global economy. However, tensions remain as China has criticized the US for violating the fragile agreement. The court ruling against the tariffs adds more uncertainty to ongoing trade negotiations.
Despite the legal challenges, White House officials are confident that tariffs will continue to be a tool in US trade policy. They plan to explore alternative actions beyond tariffs to maintain leverage in talks. The Trump administration has frequently used executive powers to enforce trade policies without requiring full congressional approval.
In other news, the US Department of Veterans Affairs has imposed new rules requiring scientists to get agency approval before publishing research articles. This came after a research paper appeared in a major medical journal without prior clearance.
Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, has cast doubt on the need for Congress to approve the large cuts to the federal workforce led by Elon Musk’s “department of government efficiency.” He suggested that most of the job reductions and agency cuts will proceed through executive actions rather than congressional authorization.
The Department of Homeland Security removed a list from its website that named states, cities, and counties labeled as “sanctuary” jurisdictions for not fully cooperating with immigration enforcement. The removal followed complaints from law enforcement groups worried that identifying “noncompliant” sheriffs could harm relations between the Trump administration and local law enforcement.
Concerns have been raised about a recent federal spending bill known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which proposes large cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. These programs provide healthcare and food assistance to millions of low-income and disabled Americans. Some fear the cuts could lead to negative health outcomes and increased poverty, but officials argue the measures are necessary to reduce government spending.
The future of US trade policy and domestic reforms remains uncertain amid ongoing legal battles and political debates. The White House’s firm stance on tariffs suggests continued trade tensions, especially with China. Meanwhile, significant changes are underway in government workforce size, scientific research rules, and social safety net programs.
