As part of the DHS - United States Department of Homeland Security, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a federal law enforcement agency aimed at preventing cross-border crime and illegal immigration. It aims to uphold national security and public safety.
The second Trump administration continues to move swiftly on policy fronts, drawing both strong support and sharp legal challenges. From immigration enforcement surges to high-stakes Supreme Court battles over Federal Reserve independence, here’s a detailed look at the major federal government developments capturing attention across the nation this week (January 18-24, 2026).
- Supreme Court Appears Skeptical of Trump’s Push to Fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments this week in a case that could reshape the independence of the Federal Reserve. President Trump seeks to remove Fed Governor Lisa Cook, arguing broad executive authority over appointees. Several conservative justices expressed unease with the move, questioning whether it threatens the central bank’s autonomy from political pressure. Observers believe the Court is likely to block the immediate firing, preserving limits on presidential power over the Fed for now. The outcome could set precedents for future administrations.
- Massive ICE Expansion and Minnesota Enforcement Crackdown Intensifies Under President Trump’s direction, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ICE have ramped up operations significantly. The agency reports hiring 12,000 new officers and agents, enabling a 120% increase in enforcement personnel. In Minnesota, ICE actions have sparked protests and clashes, with reports of agents targeting individuals based on appearance. A fatal shooting involving an ICE agent has prompted a criminal investigation into the state’s governor, heightening tensions between federal authorities and certain blue states.
- Trump Administration Announces U.S. Withdrawal from Multiple UN Bodies and International Agreements The White House issued directives to pull the United States out of several United Nations programs, conventions, and treaties deemed contrary to American interests. The move includes steps toward exiting the World Health Organization, with UN officials warning it risks global health and safety coordination. This follows earlier executive actions and signals a broader “America First” reset in international commitments.
- DHS Declares 2026 on Track for Record-Breaking Immigration Enforcement DHS leadership hailed the early momentum of the Trump agenda, promising another historic year of deportations and border security gains. Officials credit rapid staffing increases and policy directives for putting ICE “on the ground running.” The announcement underscores the administration’s focus on delivering campaign promises related to immigration control.
- President Trump Calls on Congress to Pass Credit Card Rate-Cap Legislation During remarks tied to the World Economic Forum in Davos, President Trump directly urged lawmakers to enact legislation capping credit card interest rates. The push aims to provide relief to American consumers amid ongoing economic pressures, though it faces uncertain prospects in a divided Congress.
- Changes to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Mortgage Bond Caps Spark Housing Market Debate An internal directive has reportedly raised the limits on mortgage bond holdings by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, potentially injecting tens of billions more into the housing finance system. Supporters argue it could boost affordability and lending; critics worry about long-term risks to taxpayers and market stability under the new parameters.
- OMB Issues New Guidance on Software Security and AI Trust The Office of Management and Budget released memoranda directing federal agencies to adopt risk-based approaches to software and hardware security (M-26-05) and measures to increase public trust in artificial intelligence systems (M-26-04). The guidance reflects growing emphasis on cybersecurity and ethical AI use across government operations.
- Treasury Targets Hamas and Houthi Financial Networks The Department of the Treasury announced new sanctions and disruptions against covert support networks for Hamas and smuggling operations linked to the Houthis. The actions aim to choke off funding for designated terrorist groups, continuing aggressive financial pressure tactics in U.S. foreign policy.
- Concerns Rise Over Increased Political Interference in Federal Civil Service A nonpartisan good-government group warned of “harder days ahead” in 2026, predicting stepped-up political influence in the federal workforce under the current administration’s reforms. The analysis highlights early changes that could affect career civil servants and agency independence.
- Congressional Activity and NDAA Implementation Continue With the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act already signed into law (authorizing roughly $901 billion for defense), lawmakers returned to session amid ongoing oversight of Trump administration priorities. House and Senate calendars reflect routine business, but underlying debates over spending, regulations, and executive actions remain front and center.
These stories highlight a week of bold executive moves, legal pushback, and enforcement surges defining the federal landscape. Stay tuned to GLHRInvesting.com for continued coverage of how government decisions impact markets, wealth, and everyday Americans.
