The White House Announces New Order

The White House has announced a new order aimed at enhancing financial integrity and operational efficiency within the federal government. This initiative addresses substantial losses due to fraud, which the Government Accountability Office estimates to be between $233 billion and $521 billion annually. The order requires federal agencies to provide the Department of the Treasury with more detailed financial information to improve tracking of taxpayer funds and reduce improper payments.

In addition to enhanced data sharing, the order seeks to consolidate financial management systems across federal agencies. The Department of the Treasury will have increased oversight and authority over payment disbursements, which will assist in pre-certifying payments to ensure their legitimacy. The goal is to create a more transparent and efficient system that minimizes the risks of financial fraud while safeguarding taxpayer resources.

Furthermore, the order outlines specific actions for agencies, including compliance plans to transition disbursement authorities back to the Treasury and improve their financial systems. In the coming months, agency heads are expected to submit plans detailing how they will implement these changes. The overall objective is to streamline financial processes, increase accountability, and protect the integrity of America’s financial systems.

Original: article

In a recent directive, the White House outlined a plan to enhance the integrity of American elections. This initiative addresses various electoral processes, focusing on enforcing federal laws related to voter registration and ballot counting. Key measures include requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration and ensuring that all votes are cast and received by Election Day to be counted.

The plan also emphasizes the importance of improving voter registration systems and maintaining accurate voter lists. It highlights the need for states to comply with federal laws that prevent non-citizens from voting and mandates the use of secure voting methods, including paper ballots that provide verifiable records. By implementing these measures, the White House aims to safeguard the electoral process from potential fraud and foreign interference, thereby reinforcing public confidence in the democratic system.

Additionally, the directive calls for collaboration among federal agencies to enhance election security and prioritize the enforcement of existing laws against election-related crimes. This includes sharing information regarding suspected violations of election laws and ensuring that states adhere to established voting standards. Overall, the administration’s approach seeks to create a more transparent and trustworthy voting environment in the United States.

Original: article

The White House has issued an order to transition all federal payments from paper-based methods, such as checks and money orders, to electronic payment systems. This initiative addresses various inefficiencies and risks associated with paper payments, including the higher likelihood of lost or stolen checks, which are reported to be 16 times more susceptible to such issues compared to electronic funds transfers. By mandating the shift to electronic payments, the order aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs to taxpayers, and enhance the security of federal transactions.

Under the new policy, effective September 30, 2025, the Secretary of the Treasury will stop issuing paper checks for federal disbursements and will require all agencies to comply with the transition to electronic payment methods. This includes options such as direct deposit, prepaid cards, and digital wallets. Additionally, the order outlines provisions for public awareness campaigns to ensure that recipients are informed about these changes and can smoothly adjust to the new electronic payment systems.

The order also acknowledges the need for exceptions, permitting paper checks in cases where electronic payments are not feasible, including for individuals without access to banking services or in emergency situations. The Secretary of the Treasury is tasked with developing strategies to address financial access for underbanked populations, ensuring that the transition to electronic payments is inclusive. Overall, this move aims to modernize federal payment systems while maintaining security and accessibility for all Americans.

Original: article

On March 25, 2025, the President issued a memorandum directing the immediate declassification of materials related to the FBI’s Crossfire Hurricane investigation. This action permits the release of previously classified documents, except for specific materials that are legally protected, including personally identifiable information and those subject to Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court orders. The Attorney General is responsible for making the declassified materials accessible to the public while ensuring compliance with existing legal protections.

Original: article

From March 23 to 25, 2025, the United States and Russia held technical-level discussions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following presidential talks between President Donald J. Trump and President Vladimir Putin. The primary outcomes of the meetings included agreements to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the military use of commercial vessels. Additionally, the U.S. committed to assisting in the restoration of Russia’s agricultural and fertilizer export capabilities, while both nations agreed to implement measures to prevent strikes against energy facilities.

Moreover, the United States underscored the necessity for a cessation of violence in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict as a vital step toward achieving a lasting peace settlement. The U.S. plans to continue facilitating negotiations between both parties to help reach a peaceful resolution, in line with the agreements made in Riyadh. Gratitude was expressed towards Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his leadership and hospitality in hosting these important dialogues.

Overall, the talks represented a cooperative approach between the U.S. and Russia regarding the Black Sea and broader regional stability. Both countries showed a willingness to collaborate with third nations to support the implementation of the agreements reached, reflecting a mutual interest in fostering lasting peace. The outcomes of these discussions highlight ongoing diplomatic efforts to address security and economic concerns in the region.

Original: article

On March 23-25, 2025, the United States hosted technical-level talks with Ukrainian representatives in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following discussions between President Donald J. Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The key outcomes included agreements to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the military exploitation of commercial vessels. Additionally, both nations committed to collaborating on humanitarian issues, such as prisoner exchanges and the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children, while also focusing on protecting energy facilities and fostering sustainable peace efforts.

During the discussions, the United States emphasized the necessity of a cessation of violence from both sides of the Russia-Ukraine conflict as a prerequisite for a lasting peace settlement. The U.S. reiterated its commitment to facilitating ongoing negotiations to achieve a peaceful resolution in accordance with the agreements reached in Riyadh. The talks were commended for their constructive atmosphere, and gratitude was expressed to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for playing a role in enabling these crucial discussions in Saudi Arabia.

These meetings reflect an ongoing partnership between the United States and Ukraine, with both countries dedicated to enhancing security in the Black Sea and addressing humanitarian concerns amid the ongoing conflict. The agreements reached aim to create a stable environment conducive to peace and cooperation in the region. As both nations work toward implementing these agreements, the focus remains on achieving a durable resolution to the conflict.

Original: article

On March 24, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued an order imposing tariffs on countries that import Venezuelan oil, citing national security concerns. This measure follows a declaration of a national emergency related to Venezuela, which has been in effect since 2015, and aims to counter activities by the Maduro regime and the Tren de Aragua gang, which has been designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The tariffs, set at 25%, will take effect on April 2, 2025, and will apply to goods from any country that imports Venezuelan oil, either directly or indirectly.

The order grants authority to the Secretary of State and other cabinet members to determine the imposition of these tariffs at their discretion. The White House emphasizes that the actions of the Maduro regime continue to threaten U.S. national security and foreign policy, necessitating further economic measures. Existing sanctions on Venezuela will remain in effect, and this order is part of a broader strategy to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the destabilizing actions of the Venezuelan government.

Additionally, the order states that the tariffs will expire one year after the last date of Venezuelan oil imports by a specific country, unless determined otherwise by the Secretary of Commerce in consultation with other officials. This approach is intended to ensure compliance and monitor the impact of the tariffs on U.S. interests and the situation in Venezuela. The ongoing review process will involve periodic assessments by the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Commerce to evaluate the effectiveness of the tariffs and the conduct of the Maduro regime.

Original: article