ModPun Daily News Briefing – March 13, 2025
Welcome to today’s ModPun Daily News Briefing, your 2-minute update on the latest from the Trump administration, key legislation, executive orders, national news, and global events. Stay informed, stay engaged. Let’s dive in.
1. EPA Moves to Reconsider Greenhouse Gas Threat Finding
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under Administrator Lee Zeldin, is reviewing the 2009 determination that greenhouse gases pose a risk to human health. Critics argue that the original ruling placed unnecessary regulations on industries and limited energy production options. Environmental groups warn that overturning this finding could undermine the legal foundation for U.S. climate policies.
Read more: NBC NEWS
2. Education Department Faces Legal Challenges
A coalition of Democratic-led states has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to block efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. The administration argues that education should be managed at the state level, while opponents warn that this move could lead to widespread layoffs and reduce federal oversight on educational standards. This battle is likely to head to the Supreme Court.
Read more: Reuters
3. White House Withdraws CDC Nomination
President Trump’s administration has withdrawn the nomination of Dr. David Weldon for Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Sources say that concerns over securing enough Senate votes led to the decision. The administration is expected to announce a new nominee soon, with public health policy likely to remain a key focus.
Read more: AP News
4. Senate Funding Battle Raises Government Shutdown Concerns
With funding negotiations stalled, Senate Democrats are pushing back against Republican-crafted budget cuts. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has warned that these cuts could lead to a government shutdown if no resolution is reached. The GOP argues that spending reductions are necessary to control federal debt, but Democrats insist that the cuts are too severe for vital services.
Read more: The Guardian
5. NATO Secretary General Meets with Trump Amid Europe-Russia Tensions
President Trump is hosting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House today. The meeting comes as European allies voice concerns over Trump’s recent outreach to Russia. Some NATO members fear that the administration’s approach could weaken the alliance’s deterrence posture, while the White House maintains that diplomatic engagement is necessary for long-term stability.
Read more: Fox News
6. Canada Hits Back with $30B in Retaliatory Tariffs
In response to the Trump administration’s new tariffs on steel and aluminum, Canada has announced $30 billion in retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports. The escalating trade dispute raises concerns about North American economic stability, with analysts warning that consumers on both sides of the border could feel the impact.
Read more: Bloomberg
Final Thoughts
That’s your daily ModPun news briefing for March 13, 2025. Make sure to check back tomorrow for more updates on the Trump administration, key legislation, and global events.
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