The White House is set to block Pete Hegseth’s choice for a new chief of staff in a move that aims to shield him from further turmoil. Despite Hegseth’s recommendation of Marine Col Ricky Buria for the position, the White House has intervened, signaling its intention to select its own candidate. This decision comes in the wake of recent upheavals in Hegseth’s office, including the departure of the previous chief of staff, Joe Kasper, following a contentious leak investigation that led to the removal of three senior aides. The move to override Hegseth’s choice is seen as a rare step and underscores President Donald Trump’s efforts to support Hegseth by preventing potential missteps.

Additionally, the Trump administration is contemplating suspending the writ of habeas corpus, a legal right allowing individuals to challenge their detention. This move, if implemented, would represent a significant escalation in the administration’s efforts to undermine the rule of law in the US courts, particularly concerning deportation procedures. Meanwhile, the administration is also exploring the possibility of reducing tariffs on China as part of ongoing trade negotiations to ease tensions.

Furthermore, a federal judge has ordered the release of a Tufts University student detained in Louisiana for her political speech, emphasizing the protection of constitutional rights. The House judiciary committee is expected to depose former special counsel prosecutor Jay Bratt next week as part of an investigation into potential politicization of federal criminal cases involving Donald Trump. Overall, these developments highlight the complex and evolving dynamics within the Trump administration and its interactions with key legal and diplomatic issues.