What did Trump do on March 20th, 2025?
fresh off the presses - by watchdog.fyi
Trump signed three executive orders yesterday—because what’s a day in politics without a few presidential pen strokes?
Trump's Bold Move to Reshape American Education
Summary:
Markets have been glued to the Federal Reserve's every move, but a new education shake-up is quietly sending ripples across the nation. In a move as bold as it is controversial, President Trump has signed an executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, shifting power back to states and parents.
This is no small tweak. The Department of Education, established in 1979, manages over $60 billion annually for schools and oversees a $1.6 trillion student loan portfolio. Trump's argument? Federal oversight has failed—citing dismal test scores, pandemic-era spending inefficiencies, and an entrenched bureaucracy with a $10 million PR team.
Education policy has long been a political battleground, but closing the Department altogether? That's a nuclear option. The move would return all authority to states and local governments, while also ensuring that federal education funds steer clear of programs labeled as “diversity, equity, and inclusion” or those promoting gender ideology.
The financial implications are massive. The student loan system, currently housed under the Department of Education, would need a new home—possibly within the Treasury or an independent banking entity. Meanwhile, states would have to scramble to reconfigure funding structures, compliance measures, and oversight mechanisms for K-12 education.
The Takeaway
This isn't just about schools—it's about power, money, and ideology. If Trump's plan succeeds, America's education landscape could see its biggest shake-up in generations. Keep an eye on how states, Congress, and the courts respond, because the fallout could be felt far beyond the classroom.
The U.S. Mineral Rush: Trump's High-Stakes Plan for America
Summary:
If you thought tariffs were the biggest shake-up in the U.S. economy, think again. The latest executive order from President Trump is making waves, and this time, it's all about minerals—copper, uranium, lithium, and more.
Trump's move is clear: America needs to reclaim its dominance in mineral production, and he's putting the full weight of the government behind it. The plan? Slash regulations, fast-track mining permits, and open up federal lands for mineral extraction. Agencies have been given just 10 days to map mineral-rich federal lands, with leasing plans due in 30 days. Meanwhile, approved projects will be publicly listed on the Permitting Dashboard within 15 days, ensuring transparency.
This isn't just about mining—it's about tech, defense, and energy security. These minerals power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles to advanced military systems. Right now, the U.S. is heavily dependent on foreign suppliers, including China. That's a risk Trump isn't willing to take anymore. To eliminate bottlenecks, the administration is asking mining companies to flag regulatory hurdles slowing production.
But there's a catch. Mining is expensive, and private investors have been hesitant. The order tackles that too: The Department of Defense will connect investors with domestic mining projects, and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is now authorized to issue direct loans for mineral ventures. On top of that, the Defense Production Act (DPA) gives the Secretary of Defense the power to override restrictions and accelerate critical supply chains. Even small mining businesses are getting a boost, with the SBA crafting new regulations to improve access to funding.
The Takeaway
If this policy gains traction, it could kickstart a modern gold rush. But if the bottlenecks—environmental concerns, investor hesitancy, or geopolitical tensions—prove too much, the U.S. may still find itself at the mercy of foreign suppliers. Either way, keep an eye on the mining sector—things are about to get interesting.
Trump's Procurement Shake-Up: Cost Cutter or Bureaucratic Nightmare?
Summary:
The U.S. government spends $490 billion a year on contracts, but Trump's latest executive order wants to change how that money moves. The plan? Centralize all federal procurement under the General Services Administration (GSA), cutting waste and duplication across agencies.
Sounds efficient, right? Maybe. The GSA was originally created for this in 1949, but agencies built their own systems over time. Now, they might resist giving up control. Contractors, too, could push back—fewer agencies bidding means less competition and fewer deals.
Supporters say this will save billions and cut inefficiencies, while critics argue it's a power grab that could slow down essential government functions.
The Takeaway
If this works, taxpayers save big. If it doesn't, expect bureaucratic delays and lobbying wars. Keep an eye on the Office of Management and Budget OMB's next moves—this could be a game-changer or just more red tape.
have a splendid day,
watchdog team