Senator Cory Booker made history with a 25-hour speech opposing Trump administration policies. With a mix of prepared and impromptu remarks, Booker highlighted his concerns over proposed cuts to key social programs and trade policies. His marathon effort not only surpassed a long-standing Senate record but also drew attention to moral and social issues, gaining bipartisan acknowledgment.
The UK is set to implement substantial welfare changes impacting disability benefits, with £5 billion cuts slated by 2029-30. Changes affect 1.2 million recipients as Universal Credit is redesigned, linking health support to PIP eligibility and tightening criteria. This has sparked concerns from charities about poverty risks, though the government promises increased employment support.
Labour ministers are rallying behind new welfare cuts focusing on disability benefits, aiming to address the growing number of long-term claimants and reduce costs. With a proposed £1 billion investment in employment support and plans to abolish the Work Capability Assessment, the initiative seeks to ensure sustainability while encouraging capable individuals to rejoin the workforce.
Argentine President Javier Milei and Elon Musk took center stage at CPAC in Maryland, wielding unconventional symbolism and sharing a strong stance against government bloat. Milei gifted Musk a chainsaw, echoing their commitment to trimming excessive spending. Musk's speech, laced with criticism of the Democratic establishment and election processes, left a lasting impression, highlighting their synergy in fiscal conservatism.
Kash Patel's confirmation as FBI Director was marked by a narrow 51-49 Senate vote, with notable opposition over fears of political bias. Concerns linger over his past criticisms and threats against perceived Trump adversaries, amidst ongoing turmoil in the FBI. Patel promises reforms focused on traditional crime-fighting but faces scrutiny over past actions.
Elon Musk made headlines at CPAC 2025 by brandishing a chainsaw, a gift from Argentine President Javier Milei, symbolizing radical cuts in bureaucracy and public spending. The move, echoing Milei's campaign themes, drew mixed reactions, particularly as Musk suggested slashing $500 billion from entitlement programs. His actions reflect an alignment with former President Trump's fiscal ideas and highlight growing international political connections.
Steve Bannon faced backlash for allegedly performing a Nazi salute at the 2025 CPAC. This gesture drew criticism from far-right figures and led to French politician Jordan Bardella canceling his appearance, reflecting broader concerns about the normalization of extremist symbols in conservative circles.
Tulsi Gabbard's confirmation as Director of National Intelligence incites controversy due to her past foreign policy views and recent shift to the Republican Party. The Senate's narrow 52-48 vote reflects bipartisan unease, with criticism centered on her interactions with foreign leaders like Assad and her stance on Edward Snowden. Despite this, her military service and proposed intelligence reforms appeal to some GOP members.
In a surprising turn, the Gulf of Mexico has been renamed to the Gulf of America for U.S. users by President Trump's Executive Order 14172. Google Maps has updated its systems, and February 9 is now Gulf of America Day. Social media buzz underscores the move's symbolic importance and ties to Trump's nationalist themes.
Andrew Gwynne, UK Health Minister, was dismissed after offensive messages surfaced in a Labour group chat. The messages included disrespectful remarks towards constituents and fellow politicians. Gwynne apologized but was suspended while the Labour Party investigates. Conservatives criticized the incident, and Jewish leaders demanded his resignation.
