Key Takeaways
- President Trump announced a new class of U.S. Navy warships will be named after himself.
- A federal judge ruled the deportation of over 100 Venezuelan men to El Salvador was illegal.
- Multiple staffers have left the Heritage Foundation to join a group founded by former Vice President Mike Pence.
Deep Dive
- President Trump announced the U.S. Navy will build a new class of warships named after himself, referred to as the 'Golden Fleet'.
- The plans include developing ships featuring advanced weaponry.
- Trump also issued threats regarding Venezuela, stating its leader would be unable to play tough if he resisted U.S. actions.
- A federal judge ruled the deportation of over 100 Venezuelan men to El Salvador was illegal, citing a violation of their due process rights.
- The judge ordered the U.S. government to provide hearings or return the men.
- The ruling cited the use of an 18th-century 'Alien Enemies Act' and detailed harsh conditions in the El Salvadoran prison where the men were held.
- At least 13 staffers, including senior leaders, have left the Heritage Foundation, the think tank behind Project 2025.
- These staffers are joining Advancing American Freedom, a group founded by former Vice President Mike Pence.
- This exodus signals internal divisions within the conservative movement, particularly concerning controversial figures and ideologies.
- The staff departures reflect broader discussions regarding a potential post-Trump Republican party and the establishment of conservative movements independent of specific leaders.
- Mike Pence's group aims to promote traditional conservative ideas, contrasting with the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025.
- While the Heritage Foundation views itself as a lasting entity, Pence is seen as seeking continued relevance.
- Fissures within the Republican party are expected to widen as the party looks beyond Donald Trump's influence.