Trump Administration Obstructs Economic Report to Fit Narrative

Farm Trade Deficit Debate Sparks Controversy Within Trump Administration

The Trump administration has come under scrutiny for suppressing a portion of an economic report that predicted an increase in the agricultural trade deficit, a finding contrary to the administration's public statements about boosting domestic agriculture. According to Politico, the report from the Agriculture Department, normally a reliable resource for farm organizations and officials, was delayed by five days before being released without its analysis.

"The report was hung up in internal clearance process and was not finalized in time for its typical deadline," said USDA spokesperson Alec Varsamis. "Given this report is not statutory, the Department is undergoing a review of all of its non-statutory reports, including this one, to determine next steps."

Former USDA chief economist Joe Glauber emphasized, "Objectivity is really key here and the public depends on it. To lose that trust would be terrible." The full analysis of the initial report remains unreleased.

Trump Signals Frustration with China Trade Negotiations

Donald Trump recently expressed his dissatisfaction with trade negotiations with China, labeling Chinese President Xi as tough to deal with. In a late-night post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "I like President XI of China, always have, and always will, but he is VERY TOUGH, AND EXTREMELY HARD TO MAKE A DEAL WITH!!!"

The post preceded an anticipated call between Trump and Xi regarding the $600 billion trade relationship between their nations. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent meanwhile warned China to decide if they want to be a "reliable partner" worldwide.

Elon Musk Criticizes Trump's Key Legislative Initiative

Elon Musk has voiced his disapproval of President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" due to its impact on the national debt. The billionaire criticized the bill on social media, asserting it would significantly raise the national debt. "Mammoth spending bills are bankrupting America! ENOUGH," Musk stated.

Trump, however, has not responded to Musk's criticisms publicly, despite addressing other detractors.

Family of Boulder Attack Suspect Detained by ICE

The family of Mohamed Soliman, the suspect in the Boulder, Colorado attack, has been taken into ICE custody following the attack that left twelve people injured. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem commented on X, explaining the steps taken against Soliman and his family, whose visas have been revoked.

Soliman, who is facing federal charges, came to the U.S. legally and sought asylum. The Department of Homeland Security is investigating any potential prior knowledge the family might have had about the attack.

Navy Reevaluates Ship Names Amid Diversity Scrutiny

Under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the Navy considers renaming ships named after prominent civil rights figures, including Harvey Milk. Documents obtained by CBS News reveal a list of ships possibly up for renaming as part of Hegseth's plan against diversity initiatives within the military.

Elon Musk Challenges Trump's Budget Bill

Elon Musk continues to oppose the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" championed by Trump. Musk criticizes the bill for potentially increasing the national budget deficit. "I'm sorry, but I just can't stand it anymore," Musk wrote, describing the legislation as a financial burden.

This stance aligns him with certain fiscal conservatives like Senators Rand Paul and Ron Johnson who also question the bill's economic repercussions.

Trump's Trade Efforts Under Scrutiny as Deadlines Loom

With a deadline approaching for trade negotiations, the Trump administration pushes countries to submit their best offers, a sign of the challenges in securing new trade deals. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the content of these diplomatic correspondences during a briefing, as reported by Reuters.

Kennedy Center Sees Drop in Subscriptions Under Trump

Memberships at the Kennedy Center have fallen significantly since Trump assumed leadership of the institution, promising drastic changes. According to the Washington Post, subscription sales have declined by about 36%, raising concerns about the impact of new management priorities on the center's stability.