Politics chat: Trump moves on Venezuela, Afghans in the U.S.; Obamacare deadline approaches

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the suspect in the National Guard shooting was radicalized in the U.S., highlighting concerns about domestic extremism. The incident has raised significant alarm as it resulted in the critical injury of two National Guard members near the White House. Noem also indicated that the asylum process for migrants would resume once the backlog of applications is addressed.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed on Meet the Press that she authorized the continuation of deportation flights for Venezuelan migrants, despite a federal judge's order to halt such actions. This decision has sparked significant controversy and legal scrutiny regarding the adherence to judicial directives.

The Trump administration's proposed cuts to Medicaid and refusal to renew Affordable Care Act tax credit subsidies are projected to increase the number of uninsured Americans to approximately 31 million by 2027, with many others facing significant increases in health insurance costs.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has submitted a request for a presidential pardon amid his ongoing corruption trial, marking an unprecedented move for a sitting Israeli leader. This request follows a letter from former U.S. President Donald Trump urging clemency for Netanyahu, highlighting the international implications of his legal challenges.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's strategy of balancing loyalty and punishment appears increasingly desperate as international pressures mount. His regime faces accusations of drug trafficking and human rights violations, leading to heightened scrutiny and military presence from the United States in the Caribbean region.

Top officials from the Trump administration, including Marco Rubio and Steve Witkoff, are meeting with Ukrainian negotiators in Florida this weekend to discuss potential resolutions to the ongoing conflict with Russia. This meeting is part of broader diplomatic efforts aimed at brokering peace in Ukraine.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has accused President Trump of steering the United States toward a potential foreign war with Venezuela, raising concerns about the lack of congressional approval for military actions. Schumer's remarks highlight constitutional issues regarding military oversight and the implications of unilateral decisions made by the executive branch.