We are back with another round of WTF is going on in U.S. politics. The past few weeks have been marked by significant developments affecting social security, retirement, trade, and international diplomacy. Read more about what’s happening inside.

Social Security Retirement Age on the Rise

The Social Security Administration has announced a gradual increase in the full retirement age (FRA) starting in 2025. For individuals turning 62 in 2025, the FRA will be 66 years and 10 months. This age will incrementally rise by two months each year until reaching 67 for those born in 1960 or later. These changes aim to address the program’s long-term solvency challenges. This is the only way U.S. citizens born after 1960 will receive 100 percent of benefits, according to the Independent.

Tariffs and Trade Drama

President Trump’s globe-trotting this week included high-profile meetings in Saudi Arabia and Qatar to boost economic alliances. His administration has implemented a series of tariffs affecting various sectors:

• Automotive Industry: A 25 percent tariff on imported vehicles took effect in April. However, under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), vehicles from Mexico and Canada that meet specific content requirements are subject to a reduced average tariff of 15 percent.
• Chinese Imports: Tariffs on Chinese goods remain at 30 percent following recent trade negotiations. This has led importers to convert warehouses into bonded facilities to defer tariff payments, highlighting the ongoing complexities in U.S.-China trade relations. 

These tariff measures have broader economic implications. For instance, Target has revised its sales outlook downward, citing reduced consumer spending and the impact of tariffs. 

The most notable change is that the US will temporarily lower its tariffs on Chinese goods from 145 percent to the 30 percent mentioned above. While China will cut its levies on American imports from 125 percent to 10 percent, according to the joint statement reported by CNN.

Trump’s International Hustle

President Trump has been actively engaging in international diplomacy and trade discussions:

• Middle East Visits: In recent trips to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, President Trump participated in business conferences aimed at strengthening economic ties. ABC News reports these events featured partnership agreements and investment discussions, reflecting the administration’s focus on international economic collaboration. 
• Golden Dome Missile Defense Initiative: Announced a $25 billion initial investment in the “Golden Dome” missile defense project, led by Space Force General Michael Guetlein, aiming to protect the U.S. from long-range and space-based threats. The Guardian shared that this project takes cues from Israel’s Iron Dome, designed to counter short-range threats using technology.

These developments underscore the administration’s emphasis on bolstering national security and economic partnerships abroad.

COVID-19 Vaccine Access in Question

The Trump administration has approved fall distribution of updated COVID-19 vaccines—but only for adults over 65 or those with high-risk medical conditions. According to the FDA’s new framework, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, vaccine manufacturers must now complete larger, longer studies before new doses are authorized for the general population. That leaves many wondering if they’ll be shut out from protection if another fall surge hits.

From rising retirement ages to restricted vaccine access, this week proves that the political headlines aren’t just noise—they’re shaping our everyday lives. Comment your thoughts below.