NBC Meet the Press Meet the Press NOW – February 26
Feb 26, 2025
President Trump convenes his first Cabinet meeting, pushing for bold government reforms and aligning with Elon Musk on drastic downsizing. The geopolitical stakes rise as discussions unfold about U.S. access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Meanwhile, a significant budget resolution gains traction in the House, revealing the tussle between party lines and the challenges of reconnecting with voters on crucial issues like economic growth. Political maneuvering intensifies as strategies evolve in the face of ongoing national challenges.
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Economic Deal as Security Guarantee
- Courtney Kube explains that the Trump administration views an economic deal with Ukraine as a security guarantee.
- President Zelensky, however, seeks more tangible military security guarantees.
Importance of Rare Earth Minerals
- Gracelin Baskaran explains that rare earth minerals are essential for national security, economic competitiveness, and energy resilience.
- China's control over rare earth processing has prompted the U.S. to seek alternative sources like Ukraine.
Budget Blueprint Adopted
- The House adopted a budget blueprint to advance Trump's agenda, including $2 trillion in cuts and tax cuts.
- Trump insisted that entitlement programs like Medicaid would remain untouched.