CNN 5 Things Trump attacks Powell, Harvard’s tax-exempt status, Fyre Fest 2’s future & more
Apr 17, 2025
President Trump expresses frustration with the Federal Reserve and targets Harvard's tax-exempt status. A leaked budget cut proposal threatens federal health agencies. Meanwhile, U.S. and Ukrainian officials gather in Paris, but hopes for a peace deal with Russia seem bleak. In the world of music, Fyre Fest 2 faces new hurdles, raising eyebrows about its management. Tune in for a fascinating blend of politics, international relations, and festival drama!
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Trump vs. Fed Chair Powell
- President Trump publicly criticized Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell for the rate cut pace and called for his termination.
- Powell affirmed the Fed's independence and noted removal of a Fed chair is legally prohibited.
Harvard Funding and Tax Threats
- The Trump administration froze $2.2 billion in grants to Harvard over non-compliance with policy demands.
- There are threats to Harvard's international student enrollment and potential loss of tax-exempt status.
Federal Health Budget Cuts Proposed
- The Trump administration proposed cutting about a third of the federal health budget, including slashing CDC and NIH budgets.
- Several CDC programs, including gun violence and minority health, face elimination.