Vice President JD Vance, addressing European leaders at the Munich Security Conference, voiced concerns about internal threats to European values rather than external actors like Russia or China. He criticized recent censorship activities, suggesting they pose a greater risk to Europe's existence.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration continues its push for government reform. Agencies have been directed to lay off probationary employees as part of an ongoing effort to reduce the size of the federal workforce. A budget bill proposing $4.5 trillion in tax cuts has overcome a significant hurdle despite internal disagreements within the House GOP. However, a judge has temporarily blocked the administration's freeze on foreign aid.

In other policy developments, Trump's "two sexes" executive order has prompted state-level initiatives to restrict transgender medical treatments for minors. An upcoming executive order is also anticipated to withhold federal funding from schools and universities that enforce COVID-19 vaccine mandates. These actions are expected to face legal challenges, potentially costing the administration time and resources.

On the international front, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth affirmed alignment with Vice President Vance's stance on US troops in Ukraine, dismissing any perceived differences. Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key player in Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations.

In Congress, a GOP lawmaker aims to curb Biden's EV tax credit, while Linda McMahon's confirmation hearing for Secretary of Education has drawn attention. Senate Majority Leader Thune has commented on the positive working relationship between himself and President Trump. Senators Murkowski and Sullivan are challenging a Trump order by advocating for the restoration of Mount McKinley's name to Denali.

Across the nation, California Governor Newsom is expected to veto a bill restricting cooperation between state prisons and ICE. Florida Governor DeSantis has expressed support for abolishing property taxes. Former ICE Director Tom Homan's visit to New York City has been welcomed by moderate council members. A Trump official has hinted at a potential 2026 California gubernatorial bid should Vice President Harris enter the race. A Democratic mayor has faced criticism for expressing sympathy for a suspect killed in an officer-involved shooting. Finally, arrests of illegal immigrants have reportedly surged under the Trump administration's ICE compared to the previous year's figures under the Biden administration.