1. 'Extreme vetting'
In an executive action late Friday, Donald Trump said he had imposed new “extreme vetting” rules on immigrants. The details were not immediately available. Refugees to the United States already undergo a rigorous vetting process.
2. Order to 'rebuild' military
With a second executive action on Friday, the details of which were not in hand as of press time, Trump said he would “rebuild” the US military. Sounds expensive, but Trump said he would work with Congress to increase military appropriations.
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4. Trump not lifting Russia sanctions … yet
At a joint news conference with British prime minister Theresa May, the president said it was “very early to be talking about” possibly lifting sanctions on Russia.
5. Reach out and touch someone
Trump and Russian president Vladimir Putin were scheduled to speak by phone on Saturday. Trump told reporters he would “see what happens” during the call.
Support for sanctions in Congress
For the sake of America’s national security and that of our allies, I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course. If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law.
– Senator John McCain
6. Relationship status: still special
May’s visit to the White House was Trump’s first from a foreign leader. Afterward, Trump reaffirmed the “special relationship” with Britain, praised Brexit as a “wonderful thing” and indicated his support for the Nato military alliance.
7. Trump continues Mexico charm offensive
After talk Thursday of imposing a 20% import tax on Mexican goods, Trump chatted on the phone Friday morning with Mexican president Enrique Peña Nieto. “Productive and constructive,” the White House called the call.
8. Pence attends ‘March for Life’
Mike Pence became the first sitting veep to attend the anti-abortion rally in its 44-year existence. The march also got a tweet of support from Trump.
Abortion opponents feeling hopeful
... And another thing:
British press corp is locked outside the White House because our birthdates were submitted in UK format and secret service don't get it. 🇬🇧
— Jim Waterson (@jimwaterson) January 27, 2017
... And another thing:
Melania Trump is pretending to eat a diamond necklace like it's spaghetti on the cover of Vanity Fair Mexico. pic.twitter.com/PRUfmOQEOg
— Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) January 27, 2017
