Morning Wire: Trump Plans Executive Action & Guantanamo Flights Begin | Afternoon Update | 02.04.25

Hosted by John Bickley and Georgia Howe

1. Cabinet Confirmations

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard Advance in Senate

In today's updates, Daily Wire Senior Editor Cabot Phillips reports on two of President Trump's most debated cabinet nominees making significant progress in their confirmation processes.

Georgia Howe details that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. successfully overcame the Senate Finance Committee by a narrow 14-13 party-line vote,[00:35] paving his way to a floor vote for the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services. Concurrently, Tulsi Gabbard has advanced through the Senate Intelligence Committee for her nomination as Director of National Intelligence with a tight 9-8 party-line vote,[00:35] despite facing a challenging confirmation hearing. Howe notes that Gabbard garnered crucial support from Senators Collins, Lankford, and Young, who were previously undecided during her hearing. Her commitment to stronger oversight on intelligence leaks was a key factor in securing their votes. More detailed coverage on these confirmations is expected tomorrow morning.

2. Executive Action on Department of Education

Trump Considers Drastic Reduction of Education Department

President Trump is contemplating utilizing his executive authority to significantly diminish the Department of Education, with plans to eventually advocate for its complete abolition through Congress. Daily Wire Deputy Managing Editor Tim Rice provides an in-depth analysis of this potential move.[01:10]

Rice explains that the proposed executive order would eliminate the majority of the department's functions, transfer certain programs to other federal bodies, and maintain only those functions mandated by law. This initiative aligns with Trump's campaign promise to devolve education control back to the states and halt what he describes as the "indoctrination of American youth." The implementation of this plan may be postponed until after the Senate confirms Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon, as there are concerns it might influence her approval.

Erica Donalds from the America First Policy Institute highlights the perceived failures of the federal Department of Education, citing stagnating NAEP scores where only a third of eighth graders are proficient in reading and math.[02:04] Donalds emphasizes that returning educational power and funding to parents will create better academic environments for children.

3. Executive Order on Men in Women’s Sports

Trump to Sign Order Addressing Gender Participation in Athletics

The Trump administration is set to implement an executive order concerning the participation of men in women's sports. Mary Margaret Olihan, Daily Wire White House correspondent, provides the latest details on this development.[02:30]

Olihan reports that the order, scheduled for signing tomorrow, comes amidst intense national debate and is influenced by high-profile cases like that of Riley Gaines competing against Leah Thomas. The order's specifics regarding age ranges and grade levels remain unclear. This move aligns with Trump’s campaign emphasis on fairness and safety in women’s athletic spaces and coincides with National Girls and Women in Sports Day, underscoring the administration's commitment to protecting female athletic opportunities.

Congressman August Pflueger supports the order, stating, “[03:27] This is common sense. This is fairness… It's helping all women. It's helping our society come to grips with… it's okay to be a male, but you need to play male sports… This is an American thing.”

4. Opposition from New York Attorney General

Letitia James Challenges Trump's Executive Order on Gender Affirmation

In response to Trump's executive order banning federal funds for child sex-change procedures, New York Attorney General Letitia James has instructed hospitals to disregard the order and continue providing gender-affirming treatments to minors. John Bickley highlights this conflict.[03:56]

James emphasized compliance with New York state laws over federal directives, stating, “regardless of the availability of federal funding, we write to further remind you of your obligations to comply with New York state laws.” This stance underscores the ongoing tug-of-war between federal initiatives and state-level protections regarding gender affirmation for minors.

5. Federal Workforce Resignations

Mass Resignations Hit Federal Workforce as Trump Implements Buyout Program

Over 20,000 federal employees have accepted the Trump administration's invitation to resign, aiming to reduce the federal workforce by 10%. Daily Wire reporter Amanda Prestigiacomo provides the latest developments.[04:51]

The buyout program offers federal workers the option to receive salaries through September, even after leaving their positions. While current resignations account for about 1%, a significant increase is expected as the September deadline approaches. Unions warn that the program is an attempt to pressure employees into quitting, a claim the Office of Personnel Management aims to address with detailed guidance.

White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt clarifies, “[05:34] Last week the order simply directs federal agencies to come up with a return to work plan… this isn't a purge… It's not forcing every single individual in Washington, D.C. to return to work only if they are able.”

6. Transfer of Detained Migrants to Guantanamo Bay

Trump Administration Expands Guantanamo Bay’s Capacity for Migrants

The administration has initiated the transfer of detained illegal immigrants to Guantanamo Bay, marking a significant shift in immigration enforcement strategy. Cabot Phillips reports that the first two flights have already arrived at the US Naval base in Cuba.[05:49]

Historically used to detain migrants intercepted at sea, Guantanamo's capacity of 120 detainees is poised for a substantial increase, with plans to accommodate up to 30,000 migrants. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to enforce stricter immigration controls and address rising apprehensions at US borders.

7. Escalating US-China Trade Tensions

China Responds to Trump’s New Tariffs with Increased Levies

In retaliation to Trump's newly imposed 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, China has enacted a 15% levy on coal and liquefied natural gas, and a 10% tax on crude oil, agricultural equipment, and large engine cars. John Bickley outlines the escalating trade conflict.[06:15]

These tariffs add to the existing duties already imposed on Chinese goods, intensifying the trade war between the two superpowers. Additionally, Beijing has announced restrictions on the export of rare earth metals, which are crucial for the technology sector. The situation remains tense as President Trump is slated to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the near future to negotiate and potentially de-escalate the trade tensions.

Conclusion

Today's Morning Wire Afternoon Update provided comprehensive coverage on significant political developments, including pivotal cabinet confirmations, major executive actions by President Trump, heated debates on gender and sports, substantial federal workforce changes, immigration enforcement strategies, and escalating trade conflicts with China. For more in-depth analysis and ongoing coverage, visit dailywire.com.