What was the purpose of the “Municipal Madness” competition?
It was a way to celebrate the first 100 days of the administration by focusing on “pothole politics,” where city agencies competed to address various public service tasks and repairs across New York City
The following questions were posed to Mayor Mamdani during the press conference Q&A session:
Question: What do you think your biggest challenge is moving forward after your first 100 days? Answer: The Mayor stated that every day provides an opportunity to meet the needs of New Yorkers, and his focus is on a city government that addresses both the biggest and smallest needs of its citizens. He also highlighted the upcoming World Cup as a multi-billion dollar economic opportunity for the city.
Question: How did you determine what subject matters and locations would be on the Municipal Madness bracket? Answer: The Mayor explained that agencies put forward the fixes for which they had seen the highest demand from New Yorkers, which also reflected the engagement of residents across various platforms.
Question: What is your message to the people who are anxiously waiting for your core promises like universal childcare, freezing the rent, and bus improvements? Answer: The Mayor affirmed his commitment to fulfilling his promises to transform the city into one that working-class New Yorkers can afford, emphasizing that he is focused on delivering quality-of-life improvements and new social programs across every borough.
Question: What are your thoughts on the data showing rising insurance costs for small landlords in buildings built before 1974? Answer: The Mayor noted that the Rent Guidelines Board is an independent entity that encourages public participation. He stated that his administration considers costs for all stakeholders, including both tenants and landlords, and trusts the board to consider all perspectives during their decisions.
Question: Is the late state budget helpful or difficult for your administration, and what is your response to the Council regarding changes to the racial equity plan? Answer: The Mayor expressed optimism that the budget negotiations will reach an agreement soon. Regarding the racial equity report, he defended his team’s work in strengthening a report that he stated was significantly diluted by the prior administration.
Question: Do you still have confidence in your Probation Commissioner in light of the lawsuit alleging wrongful firing after a report of misconduct? Answer: The Mayor stated he takes all allegations of misconduct seriously but declined to comment on the specifics of an ongoing investigation.
Question: What are you doing to ensure the safety of EMTs following the assault of four members in the Bronx? Answer: The Mayor expressed deep gratitude for the work of EMTs and reiterated that police officers should be present for any emergency call that involves a threat of violence to ensure the safety of the responders.
2,000 spots for 100,000 children / only 1 in 50 kids is likely to get a free childcare spot… what will the remaining 98,000 do?
What exactly did Mamdani say?
New York City officials are promoting a major expansion of free childcare for two-year-olds — but the numbers behind the program raise serious questions about its real impact.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration announced that 2,000 free childcare seats will be available this fall as part of the city’s new “2-K” initiative. The program is designed to support working families by offering full-day, year-round care — a model that could save parents up to $20,000 per child annually.
On paper, it sounds like a breakthrough.
In reality, it is only a small first step.
The Numbers Behind the Announcement
New York City has roughly 100,000 children in each age group. With just 2,000 seats available, that means:
Only about 2% of eligible children will be served
Roughly 1 in 50 children will get a spot
Around 98,000 children will not
Even officials acknowledge this is just the beginning. The program is expected to expand significantly — with plans to reach 12,000 seats by 2027 as part of a broader statewide investment.
But for now, access remains extremely limited.
A Targeted Rollout — Not Universal
The first phase of the program will focus on select high-need communities in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan.
This means that many families across the city — even those struggling with childcare costs — will not have access in the initial rollout.
Some areas are already raising concerns about being left out entirely in the first phase.
What Mamdani Is Promising
During his announcement, Mayor Mamdani framed the initiative as a major step toward universal childcare — a long-term goal supported by both the city and state.
The plan is backed by significant funding:
$73 million for the first year
A projected expansion to hundreds of millions annually as the program grows
The administration argues that investing in early childhood care will:
help parents stay in the workforce,
reduce financial pressure on families,
and strengthen long-term economic outcomes.
The Gap Between Vision and Reality
Supporters say the program represents meaningful progress in addressing one of the city’s most expensive challenges: childcare costs, which can reach $20,000–$26,000 per year in New York.
Critics, however, point to the gap between messaging and scale.
While the policy is often described as a move toward “universal childcare,” the current rollout reaches only a fraction of eligible families — leaving the vast majority still dependent on private options or informal care.
For many parents, the situation remains unchanged.
What Happens Next?
City and state officials say the 2,000-seat rollout is only the first phase of a larger multi-year plan.
The key question now is whether expansion will happen fast enough — and at a scale large enough — to match the expectations set by the promise of universal access.
Until then, tens of thousands of families will continue to navigate childcare on their own.
Amid growing legal chaos and financial pressures threatening athletic programs, the future of college sports is under serious threat. That is why, in response to calls from athletes, universities, and fans across the country, President Trump took decisive action by signing an urgent Executive Order to protect college sports, an essential American institution that supports over 500,000 student-athletes, drives local economies, provides nearly $4 billion in scholarships, and fuels U.S. Olympic dominance.
The President’s Executive Order protects college sports by using federal authority to support enforcement of clear, consistent, and fair rules on eligibility, transfers, and compensation, while promoting sustainable revenue-sharing and stronger protections for student-athletes. This action establishes critical guardrails to stabilize college athletics and protect opportunities across all sports— before it’s too late.
Lawmakers and sports leaders overwhelmingly support the President’s action to restore fairness, stability, and long-term sustainability to college athletics, praising his leadership across the industry.
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING:
Nick Saban, Former Head Football Coach, University of Alabama: “President Trump’s executive order today is a critical step towards restoring stability in college sports. I thank the President for his leadership on this important issue, as ensuring the long-term health of college athletics should be in the interest of all Americans.”
Randy Levine, President, New York Yankees: “The President was asked to show leadership in solving this seemingly unsolvable problem, and as you can see from today, he is well on his way to doing so. We thank the President for his continued leadership on such an important issue.”
Charlie Baker, President, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA): “The NCAA has modernized college sports to deliver more benefits for student-athletes, and the Executive Order reinforces many of our mandatory protections – including guaranteed health care coverage, mental health services, and scholarship protections. This action is a significant step forward, and we appreciate the Administration’s interest and attention to these issues. Stabilizing college athletics for student-athletes still requires a permanent, bipartisan federal legislative solution, so we look forward to continuing to work alongside the Administration and Congress to enact targeted legislation with the support of student-athlete leaders from all three divisions.”
Sarah Hirshland, CEO, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC): “President Trump’s executive order sends an important signal about the value of preserving and promoting investment in women’s and men’s collegiate Olympic sports in America. In order to preserve opportunities for the next generation of athletes across the great range of college sports — whose collegiate athletic experiences help shape future leaders in academia, business, science, and beyond — we must ensure sustained, meaningful investment in collegiate Olympic sports. We are grateful to the President for his continued leadership on this issue, and look forward to working with Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Congress to advance legislation that secures a strong and lasting future for collegiate athletes nationwide.”
Greg Sankey, Commissioner, Southeastern Conference (SEC): “The establishment and enforcement of consistent national standards for college athletics remains a top priority, and President Trump’s Executive Order provides important clarity to help ensure all programs operate under comparable policies. We are grateful for the President’s leadership and the continued, bipartisan engagement of members of the House and Senate on these key issues. We support House of Representatives approval of the SCORE Act and meaningful Senate consideration of similar legislation to preserve academic opportunity for student-athletes and the long-term future of college sports.”
Tony Petitti, Commissioner, Big Ten Conference: “The Big Ten Conference would like to thank President Trump for his leadership and continuing efforts to protect college athletics and joins him in urging Congress to quickly pass legislation addressing the critical issues undermining its long-term stability. Consistent with President Trump’s executive order, the bipartisan SCORE Act thoughtfully addresses name, image, and likeness for student-athletes, protecting academic and athletic opportunities provided through women’s and Olympic sports programs, and expands resources to support student-athletes on and off the field. We will continue to work with a broad coalition of college sports stakeholders and members of Congress to enact this legislation.”
Jim Phillips, Commissioner, Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC): “We deeply thank President Trump and his administration’s ongoing commitment to protecting college athletics by issuing today’s Executive Order. Following the White House’s College Sports Roundtable, there continues to be significant momentum to preserve the athletic and academic opportunities for the next generation of student-athletes and we appreciate the efforts. We remain optimistic that the SCORE Act, which would provide stability to college sports, will pass the House of Representatives in the near future.”
Brett Yormark, Commissioner, Big 12 Conference: “Federal action is essential to protect the future of college athletics and on behalf of the Big 12 we appreciate President Trump’s commitment to advancing a solution. To build on this momentum and provide long-term clarity and stability, Congress must now act. The bipartisan SCORE Act offers a comprehensive framework for many of the issues facing our industry and I look forward to continue working with President Trump and Congress to enact meaningful reforms.”
Val Ackerman, Commissioner, Big East Conference: “We are grateful to the President for his interest in helping address the disruption, instability and confusion now surrounding college sports and for mobilizing key stakeholders to craft a national regulatory framework that will preserve life-changing opportunities for current and future men’s and women’s athletes across all sports and all NCAA divisions. The executive order is an important step in the quest to secure Congressional action, which will be necessary to restore national rules, minimize state interference, and reconcile the various federal laws that are colliding in the college sports sector. The Big East looks forward to remaining a constructive participant in this process as it continues to unfold.”
Tim Pernetti, Commissioner, American Conference: “We are grateful for President Trump’s leadership in addressing the challenges facing college athletics and efforts to improve the student-athlete experience. The President’s executive order is a clear, positive step toward greater structure, national standards, and long-term stability for the young people we serve and for the future of college athletics. It creates momentum for bipartisan legislation, including the SCORE Act and the modernization of the Sports Broadcasting Act. We continue to appreciate the administration’s partnership in protecting the Army-Navy Game, a cherished national tradition that honors our service academies and highlights the character and commitment of our future leaders.”
Bernadette McGlade, Commissioner, Atlantic 10 Conference (A-10):“Finally, a moment to take a breath. The Executive Order by President Trump is a welcome sign in bringing back rational guardrails related to Division I transfer decisions. Stabilizing the chaotic current transfer environment is an important action to stabilizing intercollegiate athletics. I’ve been advocating for this policy on behalf of the A-10 and applaud the action from the White House, let’s continue with more supporting action from Congress!”
Peter Mohler, President of the University of Alabama: “As a university president, I believe our foremost responsibility is to prepare students not only for their first job, but for lives of purpose, leadership, and meaningful contribution beyond our campus. That mission rests on a commitment to core values-fairness, integrity, respect, accountability, and responsibility-that must guide how we teach, learn, and compete. Yet the current platform underlying collegiate athletics is no longer aligned with these foundational principles. Systemic change is required-change that is centered on credible and enduring support of our student-athletes, academically, personally, and athletically. The University of Alabama appreciates President Trump’s sense of urgency and understanding that extensive ‘action is required before college sports are lost forever.’ We are grateful for his leadership in mobilizing attention to this important issue and look forward to working with the White House, Congress, the College Sports Commission, and the NCAA to develop a sustainable framework for collegiate athletics that allows student-athletes to obtain a degree and have access to legitimate NIL opportunities.”
Pete Bevacqua, Vice President and James E. Rohr Director of Athletics, University of Notre Dame: “We are deeply appreciative of the opportunity to collaborate with so many fellow leaders to protect the student-athlete experience. Building on the momentum of the March 6th roundtable, this Executive Order is a significant move in the right direction.”
John Calipari, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, University of Arkansas: “I’ve spent my entire life focusing on the success and well-being of student athletes. Their success in both sports and academics is paramount. I have no problem with Athletes making money and I have had that stance for many years. But what we have been dealing with the last few years is harmful not only to their total success but also the longevity of College Sports as we know it. Yesterday, President Trump took bold action to preserve and protect Collegiate Athletics. I urge Congress to pass bipartisan legislation and SAVE COLLEGE SPORTS!”
Charlie Ward, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Florida A&M: “I am closely reviewing the executive order and what it could mean for student-athletes and college athletics. The transfer portal is an important part of today’s landscape, and it is in need of change. I appreciate the President’s focus on bringing clarity and consistency and on advancing a process that leads to student-focused solutions. I welcome continued dialogue and thoughtful action from Congress.”
Jere Morehead, President, University of Georgia: “The President’s executive order is an important step forward that keeps the national spotlight on saving college sports and reinforces the need for Congress to act. I look forward to continuing work with the White House and other key stakeholders in strengthening college sports in months and years ahead.”
Jeffery Gold, President, University of Nebraska: “The University of Nebraska campuses have long supported efforts that promote fairness, clarity and opportunity for student-athletes while preserving a strong educational mission of college athletics. This is a dynamic and evolving national conversation, and we appreciate the attention to issues such as student-athlete mobility, eligibility, name, image and likeness, and the long-term sustainability of athletic programs including women’s and Olympic sports. We will continue working with our partners to ensure college athletics remains a meaningful and positive part of higher education across the University of Nebraska and across our nation.”
Taylor Randall, President, University of Utah: “Last December, we spoke about the imperative to lead through a period of profound change in college athletics. At the University of Utah, that meant advancing innovative solutions like Utah Brand Initiatives, an effort designed to sustain the legacy of Utah Athletics while protecting our core academic, research and health care missions. Since then, it has become even clearer that college sports are at an inflection point. The combined impact of NIL, the transfer portal and the House v. NCAA settlement has reshaped the landscape introducing both new opportunities and significant financial and structural challenges for institutions across the country. I was grateful to join leaders from across higher education and athletics at the White House last month to contribute Utah’s perspective to this important national conversation. That discussion made clear there is broad consensus, we must bring greater stability, clarity and sustainability to college athletics. Along those lines we welcome today’s executive order from the Trump Administration as a meaningful step in that direction. The executive order underscores key priorities that were discussed at the roundtable. Our focus remains clear: We will protect and elevate the legacy of Utah Athletics; support the development of our student-athletes, including those in Olympic and women’s sports so they thrive in competition, in the classroom and in life; and continue to build a financial model that ensures long-term success without compromising the mission of a leading public research university.”
Indiana University Athletics: “Indiana University Athletics joins the Big Ten Conference in appreciation of the White House’s commitment to the future of college sports demonstrated through President Trump’s Executive Order and call for legislative action through the SCORE act. We share a common goal of protecting and enduring the long-term viability and success of college athletics for all student-athletes of today and tomorrow.”
Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida: “Great to see @POTUS taking action to set a vision for reforming college sports. All the items in the EO are on point. Now, Congress needs to step up and codify these reforms.”
Governor Brian Kemp, Georgia: “Thank you @POTUS for taking action to ensure the continued integrity and sanctity of college athletics. I’m glad @universityofga President Morehead played a part in these steps to protect our student athletes and the sports we all cherish.”
Governor Jeff Landry, Louisiana: “Thank you President @realDonaldTrump for signing an Executive Order to fix the broken college sports system. Congress now has a great framework to pass this necessary legislation. The quicker they move, the quicker we can save college sports!”
Senator Tommy Tuberville, Alabama: “Glad to see President Trump take action to fix the broken transfer portal that’s ruining college sports. I introduced the Student-Athlete Act last week. My bill would make the EO permanent. College athletes should get 5 consecutive years to play 5 seasons and 1 free transfer. After that, if you transfer, you sit out a year. It’s simple. I look forward to my bill being brought to a vote soon.”
Senator Ted Cruz, Texas: “College sports are a mess. The President has outlined a positive vision for fixing the chaos and is calling on Congress to act swiftly and solve this problem once and for all. The stakes are high. I will continue to negotiate a bipartisan deal that we can proudly put on POTUS’s desk that brings stability, restores competitive balance, and preserves women’s and non-revenue scholarship opportunities.”
Senator Eric Schmitt, Missouri: “College sports are a cornerstone of American culture and community. I commend the President for recognizing what’s at stake and I look forward to working with the Administration to protect and strengthen college athletics for the long term.”
Cody Campbell, Chairman, Board of Regents, Texas Tech University: “I’m extremely supportive of the President’s order. I’m very excited that we’re making progress and look forward to continued work in the (Congress) to permanently preserve a system that’s done so much for America.”
Hunter Yurachek, Director of Athletics, University of Arkansas: “I am encouraged by today’s Executive Order from President Trump and the positive impact it could have on the future of college athletics. Razorback Athletes and athletes across college athletics continue to benefit from life-changing academic and athletic experiences that are in jeopardy in today’s climate of college athletics. This EO is a positive initiative that could protect these opportunities and stabilize the college athletics industry for years to come.”
Clay Travis, Founder, Outkick “President Trump’s executive order on college sports is below. Three key provisions: 1. Five years of total eligibility 2. Only ‘one’ free transfer without sitting. 3. No players can return from pros. Goes into effect on 8/1. Common sense & solid.”
Riley Gaines, Host, Riley Gaines Show: “President Trump just signed an EO reining in NIL chaos. No more seven year freshmen. Fantastic news.” fully funding the Department of Homeland Security.
In his April 1, 2026 address to the nation, Donald Trump outlined what he described as decisive and unprecedented military success in the U.S. operation against Iran. He claimed that within weeks, Iran’s navy, air force, missile capabilities, and defense infrastructure had been largely destroyed, portraying the campaign as essential to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and safeguarding both American and global security. Trump framed Iran as a long-standing sponsor of terrorism and emphasized that military action became necessary after failed diplomatic efforts.
The president also connected the conflict to broader economic and energy policy, highlighting U.S. independence from Middle Eastern oil and a strong domestic economy capable of absorbing short-term disruptions. He warned that further escalation remains possible if no agreement is reached, including potential strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure, while noting that regime change was not an official objective. Trump concluded by stating that the operation is nearing completion and will ultimately leave the United States stronger, safer, and more secure.
Thank you very much, my fellow Americans. Good evening.
Let me begin by congratulating the team at NASA and our brave astronauts on the successful launch of Artemis II. It was quite something. It will be traveling further than any manned rocket has ever flown. It will very substantially pass the Moon, go around it, and come back home from a distance that has never been done before. It’s amazing. They are on the way. And God bless them. These are brave people. We want to God bless those four unbelievable astronauts.
As we speak this evening, it’s been just one month since the United States military began Operation Epic Fury targeting the world’s number one state sponsor of terror, Iran.
In these past four weeks, our armed forces have delivered swift, decisive, overwhelming victories on the battlefield — victories like few people have ever seen before.
Tonight, Iran’s navy is gone. Their air force is in ruins. Their leaders — most of them — the terrorist regime they led are now dead. Their command and control of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is being decimated as we speak. Their ability to launch missiles and drones is dramatically curtailed, and their weapons factories and rocket launchers are being blown to pieces. Very few of them left.
Never in the history of warfare has an enemy suffered such clear and devastating large-scale losses in a matter of weeks.
Our enemies are losing, and America — as it has been for five years under my presidency — is winning. And now winning bigger than ever before.
Before discussing this current situation, I also want to thank our troops for the masterful job they did in taking the country of Venezuela in a matter of minutes. It was quick, lethal, violent, and respected by everyone all over the world.
After rebuilding our military during my first term, we have by far the strongest military anywhere in the world. And now we’re working along with Venezuela. We are, in a true sense, joint venture partners. We’re getting along incredibly well in the production and sale of massive amounts of oil and gas — the second largest reserves on Earth after the United States of America.
We’re now totally independent of the Middle East, and yet we are there to help. We don’t have to be there. We don’t need their oil. We don’t need anything they have. But we’re there to help our allies.
Tonight, I want to provide an update on the tremendous progress our warriors have made in Iran and discuss why Operation Epic Fury is necessary for the safety of America and the security of the free world. From the very first day I announced my campaign for president in 2015, I have vowed that I would never allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.
This fanatical regime has been chanting “death to America,” “death to Israel” for 47 years. Their proxies were behind the murder of 241 Americans in the Marine barracks bombing in Beirut, the slaughter of hundreds of our service members with roadside bombs. They were involved in the attack on the USS Cole, and they carried out countless other heinous acts, including the horrible atrocities of October 7th in Israel — something that most people have never seen anything like it.
This murderous regime also recently killed 45,000 of their own people who were protesting in Iran. Forty-five thousand dead.
For these terrorists to have nuclear weapons would be an intolerable threat. The most violent and thuggish regime on Earth would be free to carry out their campaigns of terror, coercion, conquest, and mass murder from behind a nuclear shield.
I will never let that happen — and neither should any of our past presidents.
This situation has been going on for 47 years and should have been handled long before I arrived in office.
I did many things during my two terms in office to stop the quest for nuclear weapons by Iran.
First, and perhaps most importantly, I killed General Qassem Soleimani in my first term. He was an evil genius — a brilliant person, but a horrible human being. The father of the roadside bomb. What he did was just horrible.
Iran would have been perhaps in a far better, stronger position if he lived. We would have had probably a different conversation tonight. But you know what? We’d still be winning — and winning big.
And then, very importantly, I terminated Barack Obama’s Iran nuclear deal — a disaster. Obama gave them $1.7 billion in cash — green cash. Took it out of banks in Virginia, DC, and Maryland. All the cash they had, flew it by airplane in an attempt to buy their respect and loyalty. But it didn’t work.
They laughed at our president and went on with their mission to have a nuclear bomb.
His Iran deal would have led to a colossal arsenal of massive nuclear weapons for Iran. They would have had them years ago — and they would have used them.
It would have been a different world. There would have been no Middle East and no Israel right now, in my opinion — and in the opinion of a lot of great experts — had I not terminated that terrible deal.
And I was honored to do it. I was proud to do it. It was so bad from the beginning.
Essentially, I did what no other president was willing to do. They made mistakes — and I am correcting them.
My first preference was always the path of diplomacy. Yet the regime continued their relentless quest for nuclear weapons and rejected every attempt at an agreement.
For this reason, in June, I ordered a strike on Iran’s key nuclear facilities — Operation Midnight Hammer. Nobody’s ever seen anything like it. Those beautiful B-2 bombers performed magnificently. We totally obliterated those nuclear sites.
The regime then sought to rebuild their nuclear program at a totally different location, making clear they had no intention of abandoning their pursuit of nuclear weapons.
They were also rapidly building a vast stockpile of conventional ballistic missiles and would soon have had missiles that could reach the American homeland, Europe, and virtually any other place on Earth.
Iran’s strategy was so obvious. They wanted to produce as many missiles as possible, and they did — with the longest range possible. And they had some weapons that nobody believed they had. We just learned that out. We took them out. We took them all out so that no one would really dare stop them.
And their race for a nuclear weapon — a nuclear weapon like nobody’s ever seen before — they were right at the doorstep.
For years, everyone has said that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons. But in the end, those are just words if you’re not willing to take action when the time comes.
As I stated in my announcement of Operation Epic Fury, our objectives are very simple and clear.
We are systematically dismantling the regime’s ability to threaten America or project power outside of their borders.
That means eliminating Iran’s navy — which is now absolutely destroyed — hurting their air force and their missile program at levels never seen before, and annihilating their defense industrial base.
We’ve done all of it.
Their navy is gone. Their air force is gone. Their missiles are just about used up or beaten.
Taken together, these actions will crush Iran’s military, destroy their ability to support terrorist proxies, and deny them the ability to build a nuclear bomb.
Our armed forces have been extraordinary. There’s never been anything like it militarily. Everyone is talking about it.
And tonight, I’m pleased to say that these core strategic objectives are nearing completion
As we celebrate this progress, we think especially of the 13 American warriors who have laid down their lives in this fight to prevent our children from ever having to face a nuclear Iran.
Twice this past month, I have traveled to Dover Air Force Base. And it’s been something. I wanted to be with those heroes as they returned to American soil. And I was with them — and their families, their parents, their wives, their husbands.
We salute them. And now we must honor them by completing the mission for which they gave their lives.
And every single one of their loved ones said, “Please, sir, please finish the job.” Every one of them.
And we are going to finish the job. And we’re going to finish it very fast. We’re getting very close.
I want to thank our allies in the Middle East — Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain. They’ve been great, and we will not let them get hurt or fail in any way, shape, or form.
Many Americans have been concerned to see the recent rise in gasoline prices here at home.
This short-term increase has been entirely the result of the Iranian regime launching deranged terror attacks against commercial oil tankers and neighboring countries that have nothing to do with the conflict.
This is yet more proof that Iran can never be trusted with nuclear weapons. They will use them, and they will use them quickly.
It would lead to decades of extortion, economic pain, and instability worse than we can ever imagine.
The United States has never been better prepared economically to confront this threat.
You all know that. We built the strongest economy in history. We’re going through it right now — the strongest in history.
In one year, we’ve taken a dead and crippled country — I hate to say that, but we were a dead and crippled country after the last administration — and made it the hottest country anywhere in the world by far.
With no inflation, record-setting investments coming into the United States — over $18 trillion — and the highest stock market ever, with 53 all-time record highs in just one year.
It all positioned us to get rid of a cancer that has long simmered. It’s known as nuclear Iran. And they didn’t know what was coming. They never imagined it.
Remember, because of our “drill, baby, drill” program, America has plenty of gas. We have so much gas.
Under my leadership, we are the number one producer of oil and gas on the planet — without even discussing the millions of barrels that we’re getting from Venezuela.
Because of the Trump administration’s policies, we produce more oil and gas than Saudi Arabia and Russia combined.
Think of that — Saudi Arabia and Russia combined. And that number will soon be substantially higher than that.
There’s no country like us anywhere in the world. And we’re in great shape for the future.
The United States imports almost no oil through the Strait of Hormuz and won’t be taking any in the future.
We don’t need it. We haven’t needed it, and we don’t need it.
We’ve beaten and completely decimated Iran. They are decimated — both militarily and economically and every other way.
And the countries of the world that do receive oil through the Strait of Hormuz must take care of that passage. They must cherish it. They must grab it and cherish it.
They can do it easily. We will be helpful, but they should take the lead in protecting the oil that they so desperately depend on.
So to those countries that can’t get fuel — many of which refuse to get involved in the decapitation of Iran — we had to do it ourselves.
I have a suggestion:
Number one, buy oil from the United States of America. We have plenty — we have so much.
And number two, build up some delayed courage. Should have done it before. Should have done it with us as we asked.
Go to the Strait and just take it. Protect it. Use it for yourselves.
Iran has been essentially decimated. The hard part is done. So it should be easy.
And in any event, when this conflict is over, the Strait will open up naturally.
It will just open up naturally. They’re going to want to be able to sell oil — because that’s all they have to try and rebuild.
It will resume flowing, and gas prices will rapidly come back down. Stock prices will rapidly go back up.
They haven’t come down very much — frankly, they came down a little — but they’ve had some very good days over the last couple of days.
We’ve actually done much better than I thought.
But we had to take that little journey to Iran to get rid of this horrible threat. With our historic tax cuts — where people are just now talking about receiving larger refunds than they ever thought possible — they are getting so much more money than they thought. That’s from the great, big, beautiful bill.
Our economy is strong and improving by the day, and it will soon be roaring back like never before — or it will top the levels that it was a month ago.
I’ve made clear from the beginning of Operation Epic Fury that we will continue until our objectives are fully achieved.
Thanks to the progress we’ve made, I can say tonight that we are on track to complete all of America’s military objectives shortly. Very shortly.
We are going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks.
We’re going to bring them back to the Stone Age — where they belong.
In the meantime, discussions are ongoing.
Regime change was not our goal. We never said regime change. But regime change has occurred because of all of their original leaders’ deaths. They’re all dead.
The new group is less radical and much more reasonable.
Yet, if during this period of time no deal is made, we have our eyes on key targets.
If there is no deal, we are going to hit each and every one of their electric generating plants very hard — and probably simultaneously.
We have not hit their oil — even though that’s the easiest target of all — because it would not give them even a small chance of survival or rebuilding.
But we could hit it, and it would be gone — and there’s not a thing they could do about it.
They have no anti-aircraft equipment. Their radar is 100% annihilated.
We are unstoppable as a military force.
The nuclear sites that we obliterated with the B-2 bombers have been hit so hard that it would take months to get near the nuclear dust.
And we have it under intense satellite surveillance and control.
If we see them make a move — even a move for it — we’ll hit them with missiles very hard.
Again — we have all the cards. They have none.
It’s very important that we keep this conflict in perspective.
American involvement in World War I lasted one year, seven months, and five days.
World War II lasted for three years, eight months, and twenty-five days.
The Korean War lasted for three years, one month, and two days.
The Vietnam War lasted for nineteen years, five months, and twenty-nine days.
Iraq went on for eight years, eight months, and twenty-eight days.
We are in this military operation — so powerful, so brilliant — against one of the most powerful countries for 32 days, and the country has been eviscerated and essentially is really no longer a threat.
They were the bully of the Middle East — but they’re the bully no longer.
This is a true investment in your children and your grandchildren’s future.
The whole world is watching — and they can’t believe the power, strength, and brilliance. They just can’t believe what they’re seeing.
Tonight, every American can look forward to a day when we are finally free from the wickedness of Iranian aggression and the specter of nuclear blackmail.
Because of the actions we have taken, we are on the cusp of ending Iran’s sinister threat to America and the world.
And I’ll tell you — the world is watching.
And when it’s all over, the United States will be safer, stronger, more prosperous, and greater than it has ever been before.
May God bless the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.
“Paging Dr. Sliwa” is a comedic sketch presented at the annual charity event Inner Circle Show in New York City. In the video, Zohran Mamdani appears in a lighthearted scene where he consults Curtis Sliwa, who is portrayed as a doctor, ahead of moving into the mayoral residence.
The sketch is structured as a humorous dialogue with elements of self-parody and references to local New York City life. It reflects the event’s long-standing tradition of blending politics and media through satire and entertainment.
Good. How are you doing, doctor? Ah, it’s not how I’m doing — it’s how you’re doing, young man. My name is Dr. Curtis Sliwa.
Dr. Sliwa, you said? Yeah, Dr. Sliwa. I’m looking at your name here on the chart. I don’t even want to try to pronounce it. Hey, is it okay if I just call you “Z-Man”?
Yeah, that’s fine. You look very familiar, though. Were you ever riding the trains in the wee hours of the morning from, like, 1980 to 1991?
I wasn’t — how do you say this, Dr. Cleveland? — alive. Okay, young buck. So you’re here for a cat allergy shot, huh?
Yes, sir. My wife and I are adopting a cat. It never stops with one or two. Oh no, it doesn’t. How many shots have you gotten up to now?
This is actually going to be my third shot. Oh, your third? Mm-hmm. You know, I got five shots in the back of a cab.
Back of a cab? Well, it’s before your time. Dr. Gambino and Dr. Scotty — they did things a lot differently back in the day.
What day was that exactly? Oh, you ever see Love Story?
Anyway, I don’t know if the nurse told you — I’m sort of going through a midlife crisis, you know, changing careers. It’s been a little traumatic. What were you doing before?
Oh, you know, hosting radio shows, protecting parades’ right to exist, and most importantly, helping to destroy sinister old political dynasties. Oh, by the way, it isn’t all about me — what do you do?
Oh, I’m a content creator, but I do a little governing on the side. Anyway, first day — you’re going to do great, Dr. Sliwa.
Don’t be glazing me, Z-Man. Okay. But hey, I’m a little nervous, I’ve got to be honest with you. Whenever I get nervous, I treat myself to a new beret.
This one is a new color that the shop just got in — red. Oh, looks good on you, Dr. Sliwa.
Anyway, there’s something I have to get to. Do you mind if we get the show on the road? No worries — I’ve got a train to go out and patrol. You mind if I put on something that helped get me through cat med allergy school?
Not at all.
Now I know you — you’re that guy who couldn’t bench press 30 lb. 31 lb… meow!
[screaming] I’ll be a daydream, I’ll wear your favorite things… We could be beautiful.
Inner Circle is an annual charity gala organized by the NYC press corps. Every year, the Mayor’s office and staff are asked to be a part of it, making videos and sketches spoofing themselves. This played last weekend at the event – we thought you might like to see it for yourself.
The White House has issued a new executive order focused on election integrity, mandating enhanced citizenship verification systems and new standards for mail-in ballots, including tracking identifiers. Federal agencies will coordinate with states, while enforcement efforts against election violations are set to increase ahead of future federal elections.
Presidential Actions
ENSURING CITIZENSHIP VERIFICATION AND INTEGRITY IN FEDERAL ELECTIONS
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (52 U.S.C. 20901 et seq.), the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (52 U.S.C. 20501 et seq.), and the Federal Government’s constitutional obligation to guarantee a republican form of Government to every State in the Union, U.S. Const. Art. IV, Sec. 4, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose and Policy. The right to vote in Federal elections is reserved exclusively for citizens of the United States under the Constitution and Federal law. Federal statutes explicitly prohibit non-citizens from registering to vote or voting in Federal elections and impose criminal penalties for violations. (18 U.S.C. 241; 18 U.S.C. 611; 18 U.S.C. 1015; and 52 U.S.C. 20511). The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains records that, in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program under 42 U.S.C. 1320b-7, can assist in verifying identity and Federal election voter eligibility.
The Federal Government has an unavoidable duty under Article II of the Constitution of the United States to enforce Federal law, which includes preventing violations of Federal criminal law and maintaining public confidence in election outcomes. To enhance election integrity via the United States Mail, additional measures are necessary. Secure ballot envelope identifiers provide a reliable, auditable mechanism to enforce Federal law without unduly burdening or infringing on the rights of eligible voters. Unique ballot envelope identifiers, such as bar codes, enable confirmation that only citizens receive and cast ballots, reducing the risk of fraud and protecting the integrity of Federal elections.
Sec. 2. Establishment and Transmission of State Citizenship Lists and Prioritization of Investigations and Prosecutions Related to Election Fraud. (a) To the extent feasible and consistent with applicable law, including but not limited to the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a), the Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Director of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services and in coordination with the Commissioner of SSA, shall take appropriate action to compile and transmit to the chief election official of each State a list of individuals confirmed to be United States citizens who will be above the age of 18 at the time of an upcoming Federal election and who maintain a residence in the subject State (State Citizenship List). The State Citizenship List shall be derived from Federal citizenship and naturalization records, SSA records, SAVE data, and other relevant Federal databases. The State Citizenship List shall be updated and transmitted to State election officials no fewer than 60 days before each regularly scheduled Federal election, or promptly upon request by a State in connection with any special Federal election. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall establish procedures to (i) allow individuals to access their individual records as well as to update or correct them in advance of elections; and (ii) enable States to routinely supplement and provide suggested modifications or amendments to the State Citizenship List transmitted thereto. An individual’s identification on the State Citizenship List does not indicate that the individual has been properly registered to vote in the State. State and Federal laws and State procedures must still be followed for an individual to be registered to vote. There may be State laws, not reflected in the State Citizenship List, that preclude voter registration, or the individual may choose not to be registered.
(b) For purposes of this order, an individual is “eligible to vote in a Federal election” if the individual is a citizen of the United States, 18 years of age or older by the date of the upcoming election, and otherwise qualified under the laws of his or her State. The Attorney General shall prioritize the investigation and, as appropriate, the prosecution of State and local officials or any others involved in the administration of Federal elections who issue Federal ballots to individuals not eligible to vote in a Federal election, including under 18 U.S.C. 2(a), 18 U.S.C. 241, 18 U.S.C. 371, 18 U.S.C. 611(a), 18 U.S.C. 1001, 18 U.S.C. 1015, 52 U.S.C. 10307, and 52 U.S.C. 20511. Similarly, the Attorney General shall prioritize the investigation and, as appropriate, the prosecution of individuals and public or private entities engaged in, or aiding and abetting, the printing, production, shipment, or distribution of ballots to individuals who are not eligible to vote in a Federal election.
Sec. 3. United States Postal Service Rulemaking on Mail-In and Absentee Ballots. (a) The unlawful use of the mail in connection with elections is prohibited by various Federal statutes, including 18 U.S.C. 1341, 18 U.S.C. 1708, 52 U.S.C. 10307, and 52 U.S.C. 20511.
(b) To ensure the faithful execution of Federal law, protect the integrity of the mail as a medium for transmitting Federal election ballots and establish uniform standards for mail-in or absentee ballot services implemented through the United States Postal Service (USPS), the Postmaster General is hereby directed to initiate a proposed rulemaking pursuant to 39 U.S.C. 401 and other applicable authority within 60 days of the date of this order. The notice of proposed rulemaking shall include, at minimum, the following:
(i) Proposed provisions specifying that all outbound ballot mail must be mailed in an envelope that:
(A) is marked as Official Election Mail, including through designated markings provided by USPS for this purpose, such as the Official Election Mail logo, as necessary and appropriate;
(B) is automation-compatible and bears a unique Intelligent Mail barcode, or successor USPS technology, that facilitates tracking and is consistent with the other requirements of this section; and
(C) has undergone a mail envelope design review by the USPS to ensure compliance with USPS mailing standards, including barcode placement.
(ii) Proposed provisions specifying that, no fewer than 90 days prior to a Federal election, any State may choose to notify the USPS if it intends to allow for mail-in or absentee ballots to be transmitted by the USPS. As part of that notification, any notifying State should further indicate whether it intends to submit to the USPS, no fewer than 60 days before the election, a list of voters eligible to vote in a Federal election in such State to whom the State intends to provide a mail-in or absentee ballot to be transmitted via the USPS.
(iii) Proposed provisions specifying that the USPS shall not transmit mail-in or absentee ballots from any individual unless those individuals have been enrolled on a State-specific list described in subsection (b)(iv) of this section with the USPS pursuant to this subsection.
(iv) Proposed provisions specifying that the USPS shall provide each State with a list of individuals (Mail-In and Absentee Participation List) who are enrolled with the USPS, pursuant to a process specified in the rulemaking directed by this subsection, for mail-in or absentee ballots provided by such State, along with unique ballot envelope identifiers, such as bar codes, for mail-in or absentee ballots provided to such individuals. The preparation and transmission of each State-specific Mail-In and Absentee Participation List shall comply with the Privacy Act and all applicable use agreements.
(v) Proposed procedures enabling each State to routinely supplement and provide suggested modifications or amendments to the State’s Mail-In and Absentee Participation List in advance of any Federal election, consistent with applicable State law.
(c) The USPS shall coordinate with the USPS Office of Inspector General and the Department of Justice for investigation of suspected unlawful use of the mail involving Federal election materials.
(d) Any final rule pursuant to this section shall be issued no later than 120 days from the date of this order.
Sec. 4. Implementation. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security, the Commissioner of SSA, and the Postmaster General shall coordinate with the Secretary of Commerce in effectuating all relevant aspects of the implementation of this order.
(b) The Attorney General shall enforce compliance with the applicable Federal statutes referenced herein and provide guidance to election officials, including any instrumentalities thereof; contractors; individuals involved in the administration of Federal elections; or public or private entities engaged in the printing, production, shipment, or distribution of ballots.
(c) The Secretary of Homeland Security shall, within 90 days of the date of this order, establish the infrastructure necessary to compile, maintain, and transmit the State Citizenship List described in section 2(a) of this order, and shall designate a point of contact within DHS to receive and process requests from individuals and State election officials regarding the relevant State Citizenship List. The Commissioner of SSA shall provide all necessary citizenship and identity data to the Secretary of Homeland Security in support of this requirement, consistent with applicable law, the Privacy Act, and all applicable use agreements.
Sec. 5. Enforcement. The Attorney General and the heads of executive departments and agencies (agencies) with relevant authority shall take all lawful steps to deter and address noncompliance with Federal law, including withholding Federal funds from noncompliant States and localities where such withholding is authorized by law. Evidence of violations of existing Federal laws by State or local election officials; States or localities, including any instrumentalities thereof; contractors; individuals involved in the administration of Federal elections; or public or private entities engaged in the printing, production, shipment, or distribution of ballots may be referred to the Department of Justice for consideration of investigation or charges under 18 U.S.C. 2(a), 18 U.S.C. 241, 18 U.S.C. 371, 18 U.S.C. 611(a), 18 U.S.C. 1001, 18 U.S.C. 1015, 52 U.S.C. 10307, and 52 U.S.C. 20511. States and localities should preserve, for a 5-year period, all records and materials — excluding ballots cast — evidencing voter participation in any Federal election (e.g., ballot envelopes, regardless of carrier).
Sec. 6. Severability. If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any agency, person, or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its provisions to any other agencies, persons, or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
Sec. 7. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
Today, New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Yume Kitasei announced that the City’s first free, on-site child care pilot program for City workers will open applications on April 30, 2026.
Under Mayor Mamdani, the program has been expanded to include all City workers based at the David N. Dinkins Municipal Building at 1 Centre Street in addition to all DCAS employees regardless of work location. The Municipal Building, one of the largest government office buildings in the world, houses more than 2,000 employees across a dozen municipal agencies.
The program will operate on the ground floor of the building’s North Tower and provide year-round care Mondays through Fridays from 8 AM to 6 PM. The $10 million renovation is underway to construct a 4,000-square-foot child care facility, with completion expected this fall.
The brand-new center will serve approximately 40 children ages 6 weeks to 3 years and offer an evidence-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum designed to support early learning, socialization and growth.
By expanding access to free, on-site child care, the City is putting upwards of $20,000 a year back in the pockets of working families. The program is also expected to improve the retention of top talent, boost productivity and strengthen job satisfaction among working parents.
“Change begins at home. As we deliver universal child care to New Yorkers, that work must include the public servants who keep this city running,” said Mayor Mamdani. “We are bringing year-round, no-cost child care right here to Lower Manhattan — not just saving families money, but giving them back hours of their time. No parent should have to spend hours commuting just to ensure their child is safe and cared for.”
“As Mayor Mamdani has made clear, every family in New York City has a right to childcare, and that includes the families of the public workers who serve this city every day,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Julia Kerson. “This program will provide free, full-day, on-site care, helping children get a strong start while easing the burden on working parents.”
“At DCAS, we are focused on transforming our workplace for the future, namely, how can we make life more affordable, ease burdens and foster a more supportive workplace for our staff,” said DCAS Commissioner Yume Kitasei. “We see this project as an answer to these questions — that by meeting workers where they are and providing on-site, free childcare, you will have City workers who are less stressed, healthier and better able to serve New Yorkers. We hope this will be transformative for the people that work here at 1 Centre Street, and we can’t wait to open this center in the fall.”
Applications will open on April 30, 2026. To be eligible, employees must:
Be a full-time DCAS employee regardless of work location or a full-time City employee who is assigned to 1 Centre Street.
Be a parent or legal guardian of a child between the ages of 6 weeks (as of Sept. 1, 2026) and 3 years old (as of Dec. 31, 2026).
Families may submit one application per child. Full eligibility details will be available on the DCAS website when applications open.
Selected participants will be notified in June. Families not selected will be placed on a waitlist and contacted if space becomes available.
Design and construction of the facility are being managed in house by DCAS, with a target opening date this fall. The program will be operated by a contracted child care provider, to be announced later this spring.
“Under the leadership of Mayor Mamdani, Deputy Mayor Kerson and DCAS Commissioner Kitasei, New York City is taking a meaningful step to support the public servants who keep our city running,” said Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal. “Every day, thousands of City employees come into the Municipal Building balancing the demands of work and raising a family, and I know members of my own team are among those who could benefit from this pilot. By providing free, high-quality child care right where they work, this program will ease financial strain, reduce stress and give parents more time with their children. I’m grateful to the Mayor and his team for recognizing that supporting working families is essential to building a stronger, more effective City workforce.”
“This new on-site child care center at the David N. Dinkins Municipal Building is a smart investment in our workforce and in the families who serve New Yorkers every day,” said Department of Finance Commissioner Richard Lee. “By expanding this pilot to serve all City employees working in the building and making it free of charge, we are putting real money back into the pockets of working parents. Just as important, we are creating a supportive, high-quality early learning environment steps from the workplace. This initiative will reinforce our commitment to making City service a place where talented public servants can build both their careers and their families.”
“When we talk about supporting the workforce, we have to mean the whole person and the whole family. Reliable child care can be the difference between constant stress and real stability,” said Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Yesenia Mata. “This pilot removes a major hurdle for working veteran families who serve this city and shows what is possible when government recognizes child care as essential support.”
Our members, who have residency requirements, often face a tough choice in going to work every day and finding quality, affordable child care,” said Henry Garrido, Executive Director of District Council 37 AFSCME. “We’re proud to support this new initiative for DCAS workers and employees of 1 Centre Street. We appreciate our partnership with Mayor Mamdani and his administration and look forward to working together on more solutions to expand the availability of child care options for city workers.”
As part of the City’s commitment to universal child care, and with funding from Governor Kathy Hochul, New York City will launch an initial 2,000 2-K seats this fall. Earlier this month, Mayor Mamdani announced more than 1,000 new 3-K seats in high-demand neighborhoods and launched 2,000 free 2-K seats across four communities.
The City will continue expanding 3-K capacity for fall 2026 through additional partnerships with community-based and home-based providers.
Donald Trump claimed U.S. strikes wiped out Iran’s navy, air force, and key missile systems, leaving the regime in collapse. He said Washington is now dealing with a “new group” of leaders ready to negotiate — and even sending oil shipments as a sign of submission. A deal may be near, but Trump warned: force remains on the table.
readable transcript:
President Trump:
Hello everybody.
We had very good negotiations today with Iran. We’re getting a lot of the things they should have given us a long time ago. We’ll see how it works out, but things are moving very nicely.
We’ve destroyed many additional targets today — it was a big day. Their navy is gone, their air force is gone, and most of their capabilities have been eliminated.
At the same time, we are negotiating — both directly and indirectly. We have emissaries, but we are also dealing directly.
Iran recently agreed to send shipments of oil — first 10 large shipments, and now an additional 20. These are moving through the Strait of Hormuz starting tomorrow. I view that as a sign of respect.
We’re doing very well in negotiations — but with Iran, you never know. We negotiate, and sometimes we still have to act militarily.
I terminated the Iran nuclear deal made under President Obama — one of the worst deals we’ve ever made. Otherwise, Iran would already have nuclear weapons. We acted decisively with B-2 bombers and stopped that program.
Now we may make a deal — I think we probably will — but it’s also possible we won’t.
On “regime change” in Iran
What we’re seeing is effectively regime change.
The original leadership — gone. The second group — mostly gone. Now we’re dealing with a third group — completely different people, and they seem much more reasonable.
So while regime change wasn’t the goal, we effectively have it.
On the White House ballroom project
I also want to show something important.
For over 150 years, presidents have wanted to build a proper ballroom at the White House. Right now, we don’t have adequate space to host major world leaders.
We are building a new ballroom — same height as the White House, architecturally matched. It will be one of the finest ballrooms in the world.
It will include:
Bulletproof glass
Drone-proof roofing
Security infrastructure
And importantly: no taxpayer money is being used. It’s fully funded by me and private donors.
The military is also constructing a secure complex underneath it.
We’re ahead of schedule and under budget.
Military situation
We are weeks ahead of where anyone expected us to be.
If you had said just days ago that we would:
eliminate their navy
destroy their air force
take out most missile systems
— nobody would have believed it.
Missile attacks are still happening, but they are significantly reduced.
On negotiations
We presented Iran with a 15-point plan.
They’ve agreed to most of it — and even sent oil shipments as a gesture. Negotiations are ongoing, both direct and indirect.
U.S. politics — Senate & Democrats
The Senate should end the filibuster and vote.
Republicans are strong, but Democrats are acting irresponsibly. We need to:
secure the border
remove criminals
enforce law and order
We now have a closed border and are deporting violent offenders.
On immigration enforcement (ICE)
ICE is essential.
They are:
removing criminals
dealing with violent offenders
protecting Americans
We cannot have a country if we allow unchecked entry of dangerous individuals.
On elections
We need:
voter ID
proof of citizenship
limits on mail-in voting
Mail-in ballots are inherently unreliable, except for special cases (military, sick, disabled, travelers).
This is supported by the majority of voters.
On Cuba
Cuba is failing and will likely collapse soon.
We will help — especially Cuban Americans whose families suffered under the Castro regime.
Allowing oil shipments into Cuba (even from Russia) is acceptable — people need energy to survive.
On Middle East
Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain) are fighting back strongly.
We maintain strong communication with them.
If necessary, we can act very quickly to control key strategic areas.
Closing
Iran is in a weakened position.
They will either:
give up nuclear ambitions
or risk losing everything
We are in a strong position, and the situation is moving in our favor.
: Decades after returning home without recognition, Vietnam War veterans are finally receiving the honor they deserve. The White House marks March 29 as a permanent day of remembrance while pointing to major reforms in veteran care, including faster benefits processing, new clinics, and expanded support for aging and homeless veterans.
Presidential Message on National Vietnam War Veterans Day
Beginning in 1965, millions of American heroes courageously departed their homeland and arrived in the jungles of Vietnam to halt the spread of communism and defend the cause of freedom against forces of evil and oppression. On March 29, 1973, after 8 years of excruciating battle, the last United States military forces withdrew, and our final prisoners of war were released—solidifying their place in history as gallant warriors for liberty and guardians against tyranny. This National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we solemnly honor these patriots for their extraordinary courage, steadfast resilience, and unbreakable bond of brotherhood while enduring one of the most gruesome combat experiences in American history.
For the better part of a decade, our warriors endured suffocating heat, relentless monsoon rains, treacherous terrains, and the merciless brutality of guerilla warfare. After 8 years of battle, 58,000 American service members had been killed, and more than 300,000 were wounded—making the Vietnam War one of the deadliest engagements that our military has ever seen.
After valiantly serving through such brutal combat, many Vietnam veterans returned home without the welcome and gratitude that they so rightly deserved and had earned. Today, we pledge that their service—and the service of every veteran—will never be forgotten or diminished. As President, I will always ensure that our veterans have the respect and support our country owes them. During my first term in office, I proudly signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act to designate March 29 of each year as National Vietnam War Veterans Day—enshrining a permanent, annual day of remembrance for the brave souls who fought in Vietnam.
Since returning to office last year, I have worked tirelessly to empower and uplift our veterans. My Administration has secured historic tax relief for senior citizens, including many of our eldest veterans. We are expanding access to care, opening more than 30 new veteran health clinics to date across the country. We are constructing the National Center for Warrior Independence, which will house up to 6,000 homeless veterans by 2028. Meanwhile, under my leadership, the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA)’s backlog of veterans waiting for benefits has dropped more than 60 percent since last year. The VA is processing record numbers of disability claims. And earlier this month, the VA announced the Claim Assist Portal, a new and easier way for veterans to respond to VA claim requests—and the VA and Department of Justice signed an agreement to help our most vulnerable veterans get the care they need.
Today, we stand united in gratitude for the courageous service and love of country exemplified by the patriots who fought in the Vietnam War. As we celebrate 250 glorious years of American independence, we reaffirm our Nation’s sacred promise to always support and honor every hero who has fought in defense of our freedom, our home, and our way of life. You will always have my unfailing loyalty and support.
The video introduces the Mayor’s Municipal Madness, a competition where NYC residents vote on which city repairs they want to see prioritized (0:00 – 0:26). The campaign aims to showcase how the city government handles thousands of small problems annually, such as broken basketball rims or bike path bumps (0:06 – 0:13).
Key highlights of the initiative include:
Voting: Residents can vote on specific repairs at nyc.gov/madness (0:26 – 0:29).
The Bracket: Repairs include tennis courts on Staten Island, broken benches in South Brooklyn, and trail markers in Queens (0:31 – 0:35).
Winning Fix: The Mayor will personally complete the winning fix on day 100 of the administration (0:43 – 0:45).
Guaranteed Results:All items on the bracket will be fixed, regardless of which one wins the vote (0:37 – 0:42).
