Trump Administration Suspends Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries
The Trump administration announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, and Somalia, effective January 21, 2026. The State Department, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stated that this measure aims to prevent the entry of individuals likely to require public assistance in the U.S., as part of a broader effort to tighten immigration policies. The suspension will not affect non-immigrant visa applications, which are expected to increase due to upcoming major sporting events in the U.S.
House Committee to Hold Clintons in Contempt of Congress
The House Oversight Committee, led by Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.), announced plans to hold both former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton in contempt of Congress after they failed to comply with subpoenas related to the inquiry into Jeffrey Epstein. Comer stated that the subpoenas were issued unanimously by both parties and criticized the Clintons for delaying their appearances, which were scheduled as part of a bipartisan investigation into Epstein's activities.
Trump to Cut Funding for Sanctuary Cities Starting 2026
President Donald Trump announced plans to cut federal funding to states with 'sanctuary cities' starting February 1, 2026, claiming these jurisdictions protect criminals at the expense of American citizens. This move, which expands on previous threats, has been met with skepticism from state officials, including California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who stated that such actions would be unlawful based on prior court rulings. The U.S. Department of Justice has identified 12 states and numerous cities as sanctuary jurisdictions, which typically limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
US imposes 25% tariff on advanced semiconductor imports
The U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on imports of certain advanced semiconductors as part of an agreement endorsed by President Donald Trump, allowing Nvidia Corp. to ship Taiwan-made H200 AI processors to China. The tariff will be collected on chips arriving in the U.S. before being sent to Chinese customers, with Trump stating that the U.S. would capture a share of the sales due to strong demand. This decision follows a recent easing of export license criteria for the H200 chips by the Commerce Department, although further actions are required before Nvidia can commence shipments to China.
Senate Blocks Resolution Limiting Trump's Military Actions
The U.S. Senate narrowly blocked a war powers resolution that would have restricted President Donald Trump's ability to conduct military actions in Venezuela, with a vote of 51-50. The resolution faced opposition after Trump pressured Republican senators, leading to a reversal by Sens. Josh Hawley and Todd Young, while only three Republicans joined Democrats in support. Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote to dismiss the measure, highlighting ongoing divisions within the GOP regarding Trump's foreign policy.
