Trump Replaces National Security Adviser Waltz, Targets Public Broadcasting Funding

Trump replaces Mike Waltz as national security adviser, nominating him as UN ambassador. Secretary of State Rubio will temporarily fill the role. Meanwhile, a tariff loophole for low-cost imports expires, and Trump issues an executive order to cut federal funding for NPR and PBS, amid escalating tensions regarding their reporting.

In a significant move, President Donald Trump has replaced Mike Waltz as national security adviser, nominating him instead as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. This marks the first major shift in staff since Trump took office. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will take over Waltz’s role temporarily while juggling multiple positions, including his duties at USAID and the National Archives.

A pressing issue is the expiration of a tariff loophole that once allowed goods valued under $800, particularly from Chinese e-commerce giants like Shein and AliExpress, to enter the U.S. duty-free. The loophole closed just past midnight, raising questions about the effect this will have on affordable goods circulating in the American market.

In other news, Trump signed an executive order targeting National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to cease federal funding. This action, under the banner of combating perceived media bias, aims to minimize or eliminate funding from other public stations that support either outlet. Recent tension between the White House and public broadcasters has intensified, with Trump and other GOP lawmakers accusing them of unfair reporting.

The order comes as the CPB faces its legal troubles, having filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration after three board members were abruptly removed. Annually, the CPB allocates around $535 million to public media, which is facing the threat of reduced funding as Trump prepares to request Congress return already allotted funds.

On the subject of Waltz’s departure, sources indicate his position had been precarious for some time, particularly after a misstep involving a chat about military operations. While Trump previously expressed support for Waltz, it appears his influence waned within the administration. Reports emerged earlier this week regarding Waltz’s imminent exit, and Trump confirmed the changes to him directly.

As Rubio steps into the double-role, he adds to his responsibilities while maintaining a close rapport with Trump, as highlighted by Department of State spokesperson Tammy Bruce. Meanwhile, during a recent speech, Trump praised his Cabinet members, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, but failed to mention Waltz, further emphasizing the latter’s diminishing standing.

In response, Waltz expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve in a post via social media. Conversely, some Democrats claimed Trump was misplacing blame, arguing that Hegseth was the one who should be removed due to his controversial disclosures during electronic discussions regarding military targets.

Historically, Trump has had a tumultuous relationship with national security advisers, having cycled through several during his first term. The first, Michael Flynn, lasted only 25 days; Flynn was succeeded by H.R. McMaster, who served for over a year before John Bolton took the reins, remaining only for about a year. Lastly, Robert O’Brien finished out the term with more steadiness than his predecessors.

In summary, President Trump’s recent staff changes bring to light the ongoing turbulence within his administration. The replacement of Waltz as national security adviser, alongside shifts in funding for public broadcasting, underscores the contentious atmosphere. As Congress and the public respond to these developments, the implications for Trump’s presidency, particularly in regards to media relations and foreign diplomacy, remain significant.

Original Source: www.cnn.com