Weekly Primer | March 16, 2026
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 Iran war continues to escalate, with no end in sight.
The White House has been unable to establish a clear narrative on the way forward, leading to growing unease among allies at home and abroad.
Coming up this week
*This edition was updated to include the resignation of Joe Kent
Iran Conflict Shows No Signs of Slowing | The war in the Middle East continues to escalate as the U.S. has found few allies outside Israel willing to support.
Kent Resignation Puts Administration on Back Foot | The counterterrorism director’s departure is the first major defection since the Iran war and has fostered intense debate within the president’s base.
Gabbard Set to Testify | DNI Gabbard is seen as a war skeptic, which will bring scrutiny on her as she testifies in the Senate on Wednesday.
China Visit to be Delayed | The president has hinted at delaying the state visit to China, scheduled for the end of the month.
Thune Move SAVE Act Forward | The majority leader began moving the GOP bill to the Senate floor as a signal to the MAGA base, but passage is doubtful.
You may have missed
RFK Vaccine Revisions Face Setback | The revised vaccine schedule was temporarily overturned by a federal court in a ruling now being appealed.
Grennell Out at Kennedy Center | As the performing arts venues undergo renovations, long-time Trump aide Richard Grennell will be moving on.
Vance Faud Task Force Launched | The vice president was formally given charge of a new task force that will crack down on fraud by recipients of federal benefits.
Cuba Opens Talks with Washington | The Cuban president disclosed that discussions are ongoing with American authorities to reach a new understanding.
Europe Rebuffs Support for Hormuz | Despite multiple public calls for support, no European countries have offered active support to secure the Strait of Hormuz as of yet.
Readings & Viewings
Snapshots from around the media from the past week.
GEOPOLITICO | “The Inevitable but Avoidable War.”
Washington Post | “Is MAGA in its cringe era?”
CBS News | Trump and Vance take questions on Iran War.
“Kent joined the army at 18 and left in 2018 to join the CIA. After his wife, also serving, was killed in a bombing in Syria, he resigned from government service and eventually ran for Congress unsuccessfully in 2022 and 2024, campaigning against ‘endless wars.’ As NCTC director, he will work to promote an America- first orientation and reduce what the administration sees as remote missions.”
- p. 114 “People and Positions” | Trump 2.5: A Primer (2025)