On February 9, 2025, aboard Air Force One en route to New Orleans for Super Bowl 59, President Donald Trump made history by signing a proclamation renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America.” The signing occurred as the presidential aircraft flew over the area now bearing its new name.

This declaration follows the issuance of Executive Order 14172 on January 20, 2025, titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness.” The order directed the Secretary of the Interior to rename the U.S. Continental Shelf region bordered by Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, extending to the seaward boundaries with Mexico and Cuba.

President Trump emphasized the significance of the region to the nation’s history and economy. “The area formerly known as the Gulf of Mexico has long been an integral asset to our once-burgeoning nation and remains an indelible part of America,” Trump stated.

The proclamation also designated February 9 as the first-ever “Gulf of America Day.” Trump called upon public officials and citizens to observe the occasion with “appropriate programs and commemorations.”

“This is another step toward restoring American pride and history,” Trump noted, underscoring the symbolic importance of the renaming initiative.

The announcement sparked mixed reactions domestically and internationally. While some celebrated the decision as a patriotic move, others criticized it as unnecessary and provocative, particularly concerning international relations with neighboring Mexico.

In a statement on X, Google Maps confirmed it would update the label to “Gulf of America” on U.S. digital maps while retaining “Gulf of Mexico” for Mexican users. International viewers will see both names on the map interface.

As Trump’s administration continues to push for symbolic changes tied to American identity, the renaming of this historic water body marks a significant moment in his presidency. The proclamation reinforces Trump’s ongoing agenda to “Make America Great Again” and restore national pride.

Source: The Economic Times

President Donald Trump recently outlined his tax priorities for 2025 during a meeting with House GOP leaders, unveiling a series of ambitious proposals aimed at reshaping the nation’s tax landscape. These initiatives reflect his broader economic agenda and have sparked debate among policymakers and the public alike.

Key Proposals

One of the cornerstone measures in Trump’s plan is the elimination of the carried interest loophole. This provision currently allows private equity managers to pay taxes at a lower capital gains rate rather than the higher ordinary income tax rate. Closing this loophole is intended to increase tax equity and generate additional revenue for the federal government.

In a move that could benefit taxpayers in high-tax states, Trump has proposed expanding the state and local tax (SALT) deduction. The SALT deduction, which was capped under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), has been a point of contention for many taxpayers, particularly in states with high property and income taxes.

Additional measures include eliminating taxes on tips, Social Security benefits, and overtime pay. These changes are aimed at reducing the tax burden on lower-income workers and retirees. Trump also expressed a desire to renew the tax cuts implemented under the 2017 TCJA, signaling a continued focus on maintaining reduced tax rates for both individuals and businesses.

A notable aspect of Trump’s plan is the proposal to cut taxes for American-made products, which aligns with his “America First” economic strategy. Furthermore, he seeks to eliminate special tax breaks for billionaire sports team owners, a move aimed at curbing perceived tax favoritism.

Political and Economic Implications

The scope and cost of these tax proposals are significant. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the urgency of addressing affordability issues, acknowledging the potential financial strain on the federal budget. Republicans are preparing a sweeping tax bill that could cost trillions, raising questions about its fiscal sustainability.

On the legislative front, Senate Republicans have introduced a $300 billion measure focused on border security. House Speaker Mike Johnson has advocated for combining tax cuts with immigration reform into a single comprehensive bill. This strategy reflects a broader GOP effort to address multiple policy priorities simultaneously.

Challenges and Outlook

While Trump’s tax plan has garnered support among conservative lawmakers, it faces potential hurdles. The projected cost of the proposals and their impact on the federal deficit are likely to be key points of contention during legislative debates. Additionally, the plan’s emphasis on renewing the 2017 tax cuts may encounter opposition from Democrats who have criticized those cuts for disproportionately benefiting wealthy individuals and corporations.

As the 2025 legislative session approaches, the success of Trump’s tax agenda will depend on negotiations between the White House and Congress. The outcome of these discussions will have far-reaching implications for the U.S. economy and taxpayers alike.

In the coming months, all eyes will be on Capitol Hill as lawmakers grapple with the challenge of balancing tax reform, economic growth, and fiscal responsibility.

In a controversial development, the CIA has reportedly sent an unclassified email to the White House listing new hires with two years or less tenure. This move was made in compliance with an executive order aimed at downsizing the federal workforce, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The decision, described by officials as the “least bad option,” raises significant national security concerns.

The list reportedly includes first names and last initials of employees, ranging from analysts to trainees preparing for undercover roles. While designed to minimize risks, the choice to disclose even partial identities poses potential dangers. One source highlighted that some employees have “uncommon” first names, which could allow foreign intelligence services to cross-reference publicly available data and potentially identify these individuals.

Although the listed hires have likely not yet been deployed overseas in undercover roles, the exposure could impact their future assignments. CIA officials may now consider it too risky to send these individuals to high-risk postings, effectively jeopardizing their careers before they begin.

A CIA spokesperson confirmed compliance with the executive orders, stating, “We are providing requested information through the appropriate channels.” However, the decision has faced fierce criticism from lawmakers.

House Intelligence Committee ranking member Jim Himes of Connecticut condemned the action, emphasizing its potential harm to national security. “Those details are secret for a reason — because protecting the identities of CIA employees is critical to their safety and mission, a mission that helps keep Americans safe every day,” Himes stated. He also expressed concerns about the possible mass dismissal of provisional employees.

Adding to the workforce reduction efforts, the CIA recently became the first major national security agency to offer buyouts as part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and “infuse the Agency with renewed energy.”

The implications of this unprecedented move extend beyond workforce logistics. Experts and officials worry that compromising even partial employee information could embolden foreign adversaries and undermine the agency’s operational capabilities. As the situation unfolds, critics warn that the potential cost to national security and agency morale could be severe.

Source: New York Times

At least 10 people, including the gunman, were killed on Tuesday in a tragic mass shooting at Campus Risbergska, an adult education center in Örebro, Sweden. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described the incident as the worst mass shooting in the nation’s history. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities still working to determine the exact number of fatalities, injuries, and the shooter’s motive.

The tragedy unfolded around 12:30 p.m. local time, shortly after students had completed a national exam. The school, which offers primary and upper secondary courses, vocational training, and Swedish language classes for immigrants, became a site of chaos as gunfire erupted.

Prime Minister and Justice Minister Respond

During a press conference, Kristersson condemned the attack, emphasizing the brutality of the violence against innocent victims. “This is the worst mass shooting in Swedish history,” he said. “Many questions remain unanswered, and I cannot provide those answers either. But the time will come when we will know what happened, how it could occur, and what motives may have been behind it.”

Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer called the shooting “an event that shakes our entire society to its core,” noting that Sweden had previously seen itself as insulated from such tragedies.

Investigation and Community Impact

Local police chief Roberto Eid Forest stated that investigators were still working to confirm the exact death toll and identify the victims. Authorities believe the gunman acted alone and confirmed he was among the deceased. While no connection to terrorism has been established, the motive for the attack remains unknown.

“We all want to understand why this happened,” Kristersson said. “We will have to wait for those answers—in due time, the picture will become clearer.”

A search of the suspect’s residence has been conducted, but findings have not yet been disclosed. Police reported that there were no prior warning signs of the attack, and the suspect was not previously known to law enforcement.

International and National Reactions

The attack prompted widespread shock and condemnation both within Sweden and across Europe. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her sorrow, stating, “Such violence and terror have no place in our societies—least of all in schools.” Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also extended support, calling the situation “a terrible tragedy.”

Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf offered condolences and praised the swift response of emergency personnel. “We send our condolences tonight to the families and friends of the deceased,” the monarch stated.

Survivors’ Accounts and Evacuations

Teacher Lena Warenmark recounted hearing approximately 10 gunshots and noted that fewer students than usual were on campus due to the exam schedule. Some students sheltered in nearby buildings, while others barricaded themselves inside classrooms.

Andreas Sundling, a 28-year-old student, described the harrowing experience to Expressen newspaper. “We heard three bangs and loud screams,” he recalled while hiding in a classroom.

A Community in Mourning

As authorities continue their investigation, the community of Örebro is left grappling with the aftermath of this unprecedented tragedy. The nation stands united in mourning, seeking answers and solace in the face of unimaginable violence.

Source: AP, Reuters