Trump's announcement to reopen Alcatraz prison dominated morning headlines across the media spectrum, with outlets framing it either as housing "dregs of society" (NY Post) or as "THE CROCK" (HuffPost). By midday, Trump expanded his economic nationalism with a proposed 100% tariff on foreign-made movies, continuing his recent pattern of trade barriers following the previous week's auto parts tariffs.
The administration unveiled a "self-deportation" program offering undocumented immigrants $1,000 and airfare to leave voluntarily, which Rwanda confirmed it was discussing with U.S. officials. The White House also announced sanctions against Harvard University, cutting off new federal research grants—following the previous days' moves against NPR, PBS, and Harvard's tax status.
International tensions escalated as Israel approved a plan to "conquer" Gaza if no hostage deal is reached, while Defense Secretary Hegseth ordered a 20% reduction in four-star generals and admirals.