The Weekly Primer is a ‘pop-up’ newsletter that highlights the latest developments from the Trump White House with a view into the deeper agenda underway.
What’s ahead on the Trump 2.5 Agenda?
The euphoria from the July 4 weekend was short-lived as the Iran ceasefire is all but gone, shifting geopolitics back into the spotlight.
The administration is also facing a challenge in the Senate after Lindsay Graham’s passing and a severe health issue for Mitch McConnell.
Coming up this week
The Iran War is Back | With the ceasefire already fraying, severe attacks unfolded from both sides and in all directions over the weekend, raising the specter of significant escalation to come.
Brazil Seeks to Defer Tariffs | Both sides of Brazil’s political aisle have headed to DC to seek a delay in the implementation of renewed tariffs ahead of the country’s fall elections.
World Cup Final Set for Weekend | The final match will take place in New Jersey with President Trump and world leaders in attendance.
Iraqi PM Heads to Washington | Iraq’s new leader will meet the president on Wednesday at the White House after an anti-fraud crackdown.
Netanyahu Visit in the Shadows | Israel’s prime minister had planned to visit the capital this week but may postpone the trip amid ongoing hostilities.
You may have missed
GOP Senate in Dual Setback | Long-time Senator Lindsay Graham passed away due to cardiac arrest at the same time that Senator Mitch McConnell faced a health scare that has left him incapacitated.
Preliminary Hearing in Charlie Kirk Trial | Initial evidence was revealed in pre-trial motions that has set alight online debate in conservative circles.
NATO Summit Largely Uneventful | President Erdogan hosted world leaders for the annual NATO summit, which solidified support for Ukraine and Syria.
Rep Khanna Detained in West Bank | The Democratic congressman was held briefly by settlers and the IDF during his visit as he increases his political profile ahead of a potential presidential run.
White House Hosts Quantum Summit | Following the executive order last month, the administration is advancing the high-technology agenda to try to stay ahead of China.
Readings & Viewings
Snapshots from around the media from the past week.
New York Times | “How Marco Rubio Is Running Venezuela from Afar.”
Tel Aviv University | Speech by Rahm Emanuel
Fox News | VP Vance in Fraud Update
“There are voters who will not vote for the Trump 2.5 agenda for entrenched ideological reasons. Special interests within the MAGA coalition may drive policies against popular sentiment. Yet, without regrouping, the Democratic Party will be stuck pointing out problems instead of presenting solutions and an alternative.”
- p. 170 “The Way Forward” | Trump 2.5: A Primer (2025)