Weekly Primer | March 23, 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?
President Trump is in a face-off with Iran’s new leadership, as countries in the region and global markets are caught in the middle.
The entire White House agenda revolves around the conflict with Iran at the moment, as the administration seeks an off-ramp.
Coming up this week
Iran Conflict Caught in Confusion | After a period of severe escalation, President Trump initiated a negotiation framework to end the war on Monday morning, which will be the focus of the week.
China Summit on Indefinite Hold | The high-profile presidential summit in China has been postponed to a later date as planning continues in the background.
ICE Enters TSA Zones | Amidst the continuing DHS shutdown, the administration deployed ICE to key airports as delays mount across the country.
Major Business Summits this Week | Washington, D.C., will play host to the Hill & Valley Forum, while Miami will be the venue for the Saudi-led Priority Summit.
Cuban Crisis May Escalate | Although the focus is on the Middle East, the American siege on Cuba is leading to severe blackouts and supply shortages as Havana continues direct talks with Washington this week.
You may have missed
Joe Kent Goes on MAGA Roadshow | The recently-resigned Trump official has gone on a podcast tour to hammer home his message to end the Iran War.
Gabbard Evasive in Hill Testimony | DNI Tulsi Gabbard appeared in Congress in a previously scheduled session, where she answered questions related to the imminent nature of the threat from Iran.
Japanese PM Visits Washington | The strong Trump ally visited the White House to deepen the relationship with the White House’s leading partner in Asia.
Bessent Signals Reprieve for Iranian Oil | The Treasury secretary is helping facilitate the sale of oil from Iran that is already at sea, raising eyebrows among policymakers.
White House Unveils AI Approach | The administration has put forward a six-point framework for national legislation on artificial intelligence.
Readings & Viewings
Snapshots from around the media from the past week.
GEOPOLITICO | “The Inevitable but Avoidable War”
Tucker Carlson | Interview with Joe Kent
Time is Now | “It Is Time for a Sovereign Summit on Iran”
“Asian countries are much more ready to do business. The relationship with Japan will have preeminence due to the size of the Japanese economy and President Trump’s familiarity with the country.”
- p. 70 “Principles and Policies” | Trump 2.5: A Primer (2025)