Trump Day 7 Live Updates: First Post-Inauguration Florida Visit Highlights Key GOP Discussions

President Donald Trump defended his decision yesterday to remove 18 inspectors general, a move that has sparked significant controversy. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump stated, "I did it because it’s a very common thing to do," adding that his actions were "a very standard thing to do."

The dismissals, however, represent a clear departure from established norms. Under a 2022 law, the White House is required to provide Congress with a 30-day notice before officially removing an inspector general. Critics argue that this mass firing undermines government oversight and raises concerns about the administration's commitment to accountability.

The decision has drawn scrutiny from both lawmakers and watchdog groups, highlighting tensions over the balance of power and transparency within the federal government.

The Senate confirmed Kristi Noem, the former Republican governor of South Dakota, as the Secretary of Homeland Security yesterday with a 59-34 vote.

The confirmation saw bipartisan support, with several Democrats crossing party lines to back Noem’s appointment. Democratic senators who voted in favor included John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, Tim Kaine of Virginia, Andy Kim of New Jersey, Gary Peters of Michigan, Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, and Elissa Slotkin of Michigan.

Noem's confirmation marks a significant step in President Trump’s efforts to solidify his administration’s leadership team. As DHS secretary, Noem is expected to prioritize border security, immigration enforcement, and bolstering cybersecurity defenses.

President Donald Trump is set to meet with House Republicans at their annual retreat this week, taking place from Monday to Wednesday at Trump National Doral in Florida.

House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed earlier this month that Trump would participate in the event, which is expected to focus on key legislative priorities and strategies for the upcoming sessions. This marks another stop in Trump's ongoing travels, following recent visits to North Carolina, California, and Nevada.

The retreat provides an opportunity for Trump to further align with GOP lawmakers and reinforce his administration’s policy objectives ahead of the next legislative cycle.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., recently stated that he believes President Donald Trump's decision to pardon individuals involved in the violent January 6, 2021, Capitol riot was "a mistake."

Graham expressed concern over Trump’s pardon of those who committed violent acts during the insurrection, particularly those who attacked law enforcement officers. He argued that these pardons risk sending a dangerous message that such violent actions might be justified.

Additionally, Graham pointed out the potential long-term consequences of such pardons, suggesting that the public may begin to question the scope of presidential pardons if this trend continues. The senator emphasized that the issue could spark further debate about the limits of executive power in future administrations.

Immigration enforcement operations swept through cities across the United States today, marking the launch of President Donald Trump’s intensified deportation efforts. While the focus is on targeting migrants with serious criminal records, concerns have been raised about the potential detention of individuals without prior offenses.

Tom Homan, the administration’s border czar, confirmed that numerous arrests were made, including individuals convicted of violent crimes such as murder and sexual assault. He also acknowledged that during these operations, some individuals without criminal records might be detained as collateral arrests.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement stated that these operations are critical for ensuring public safety and upholding immigration laws. According to the agency, the initiative aims to remove individuals deemed a threat to communities and strengthen national security measures.

The White House announced that Colombia has agreed to President Donald Trump’s terms, resolving a tariff standoff over blocked deportation flights. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Colombia has committed to the unrestricted acceptance of deportees from the United States, including those transported on U.S. military aircraft, without any delays or restrictions.

In response, the White House has decided to hold off on implementing proposed tariffs and sanctions, reserving them as a contingency should Colombia fail to honor the agreement. However, Leavitt emphasized that visa sanctions by the State Department and enhanced inspections by Customs and Border Protection will remain in place until the first flight carrying deportees successfully arrives in Colombia.

Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo addressed the agreement, reaffirming Colombia’s readiness to receive deported citizens under humane conditions. He stated that the government, led by President Gustavo Petro, has made the presidential plane available for deportation arrivals and remains committed to protecting the rights and dignity of its citizens. Murillo also highlighted the importance of maintaining open diplomatic channels to safeguard Colombia’s national interests.