President Trump entered the week with his approval rating at a second‑term low, rising gas prices and a looming decision on a renewed Iran bombing campaign. Despite a Senate revolt over two unpopular spending proposals, he doubled down, portraying himself as invincible. He also signaled willingness to use executive orders to bypass Congress.

Trump defended a $1.8 billion Anti‑Weaponization Fund intended to compensate allies he says were persecuted by Democrats, arguing he forfeited personal gain by backing it. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faced fierce questioning from Senate Republicans worried the money could reward Jan. 6 participants. The controversy forced GOP leaders to abandon a planned $72 billion immigration crackdown vote.

White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller continued to champion the fund, calling it a modest step toward justice for those he labels victims of a “weaponized” Biden administration. At a rally in Rockland County, Trump boasted that his primary‑backed challengers had ousted incumbents, while hinting that his legacy will rest on projects such as a Washington triumphal arch rather than legislative wins.