Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz – Part 2

February 20, 2025

Remarks

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Action Summary

DOGE Dividend Checks & Fiscal Savings: Discussion of a plan where savings from cutting waste, fraud, and abuse are returned as DOGE dividend checks—20% to taxpayers, 20% to pay down the debt, with remaining funds lowering future spending baselines to reduce the deficit.
Ukraine and Foreign Policy: Emphasis on ending the Ukraine conflict by pressuring President Zelenskyy to engage in serious negotiations; proposals include economic partnerships (such as restoring a key aluminum foundry) and European security guarantees, with a focus on ending prolonged warfare for global and American security.
Russian Engagement & Diplomatic Moves: Reference to shuttle diplomacy with Russian counterparts, restoring embassy functions, and broader discussions on resetting U.S.–Russia relations while maintaining pressure to halt the conflict.
Immigration & Deportation Enforcement: Assurance of expediting deportations by utilizing the full force of Homeland Security, Justice, and Defense, with a pledge to remove criminal illegal aliens swiftly and enforce final removal orders.
Federal Workforce & IRS Cuts: Commentary on reducing waste in government by cutting around 3,500 IRS jobs as part of broader federal spending cuts, aiming to increase productivity and efficiency across agencies.
Tariff Revenue & Tax Policy: Discussion on the potential to replace aspects of income tax with significant tariff revenue generated from higher tariffs (notably from China), with estimates ranging between $500 billion and $1 trillion over 10 years.
Appointments & Bureaucratic Reform: Support for President Trump’s choice of Elbridge Colby for Undersecretary of Defense for Policy amid controversy, coupled with criticism of entrenched, unelected federal bureaucrats who resist change and undermine democratic accountability.
Additional Remarks: Light-hearted banter regarding a USA–Canada hockey game and broader criticisms of media narratives, while reinforcing the administration’s commitment to a leadership style that directly implements the will of the American people.

Risks & Considerations

The discussion around DOGE (Dividends of Government Efficiency) and the potential redistribution of savings to taxpayers and debt reduction could impact federal funding allocations. This may lead to changes in funding for educational institutions, including Vanderbilt University, particularly if federal budget priorities shift.
The emphasis on reducing federal bureaucracy and potential job cuts at agencies like the IRS could lead to decreased efficiency in federal operations, potentially affecting grant processing and funding disbursements that universities rely on.
The geopolitical situation involving Ukraine and the U.S. administration’s stance could influence international collaborations and partnerships. Vanderbilt may need to consider the implications for its international programs and research initiatives, especially those involving European partners.
The potential shift from income tax to tariff revenue as a primary source of federal income could have broader economic implications, potentially affecting the financial landscape for higher education funding and student financial aid.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt’s Office of Federal Relations may need to closely monitor changes in federal budget allocations and advocate for continued support for higher education funding.
International Programs at Vanderbilt could be impacted by changes in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to Ukraine and Europe, necessitating adjustments in international collaborations and student exchange programs.
The Department of Political Science may see increased interest in courses related to U.S. foreign policy and international relations, providing opportunities for expanded curriculum and research.
Vanderbilt’s Financial Aid Office might need to reassess its strategies in response to potential changes in federal funding and economic conditions affecting students’ financial needs.

Financial Impact

The potential reallocation of federal funds and changes in tax revenue sources could impact the availability of federal grants and financial aid programs, affecting Vanderbilt’s budget planning and student support services.
Vanderbilt may need to explore alternative funding sources and partnerships to mitigate potential reductions in federal support, particularly for research and development initiatives.
Changes in the economic landscape due to shifts in federal tax and spending policies could influence tuition revenue and the financial stability of the university.

Relevance Score: 3 (The information presents moderate risks involving compliance or potential changes in funding and international relations.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s Office of Federal Relations should monitor developments related to the DOGE initiative, which involves significant budget cuts and potential tax relief. Understanding the implications of these fiscal policies could help the university anticipate changes in federal funding and adjust its financial strategies accordingly.
The Department of Political Science should consider conducting research on the geopolitical implications of U.S. involvement in Ukraine, particularly in terms of resource investments and security guarantees. This research could provide valuable insights into international relations and inform the university’s global engagement strategies.
Vanderbilt’s Center for International Studies should explore opportunities to engage in dialogue and research on the impact of U.S. foreign policy in Europe, especially regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This could enhance the university’s role as a thought leader in international affairs.
The Peabody College of Education and Human Development should assess the potential impact of federal spending cuts on educational programs and initiatives. By understanding these changes, the college can better position itself to adapt to new funding landscapes and continue to support educational innovation.

Opportunities

The focus on reducing federal bureaucracy presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Public Policy Studies to analyze the effects of these changes on government efficiency and public administration. This research could contribute to broader discussions on governance and policy reform.
Vanderbilt can capitalize on the emphasis on fiscal responsibility by developing programs and partnerships that align with federal priorities for budget efficiency and economic growth. This could include initiatives in financial management, public policy, and economic development.
The university could explore partnerships with international institutions to study the economic and security implications of U.S. investments in Ukraine. This collaboration could enhance Vanderbilt’s global research network and provide valuable insights into international economic policy.

Relevance Score: 3 (The actions and opportunities identified suggest some adjustments are needed to processes or procedures at Vanderbilt University.)

Average Relevance Score: 3.6

Timeline for Implementation

30-day period mentioned for actions such as closing the border and ramping up ICE deportations.

This timeline was identified during the discussion when the spokesperson noted that “in 30 days, the president sealed the border shut,” thereby establishing a definitive deadline for these directives.

Relevance Score: 4

Impacted Government Organizations

Department of Homeland Security (DHS): Referenced regarding immigration enforcement, border security, and ICE operations.
Department of Justice (DOJ): Implicated in deportation policies, law enforcement measures, and overall legal accountability.
Department of Defense (DoD): Cited for its role in national security and support in deportation efforts.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Targeted for significant job cuts and efficiency reforms as part of federal spending reductions.
Department of the Treasury: Engaged in fiscal policies, including discussions on tariff revenue and budget savings measures.
U.S. State Department: Involved in restoring embassy operations and facilitating international diplomatic engagements.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Mentioned in the context of reforms and accountability as part of broader government restructuring.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Referenced when discussing bureaucratic resistance to mandated policy changes.

Relevance Score: 3 (A moderate number of Federal Agencies are impacted by the directives discussed.)

Responsible Officials

Secretary of Homeland Security – Charged with enforcing the presidential directive on rapidly increasing deportations and bolstering border security (including oversight of ICE operations).
Attorney General (Department of Justice) – Responsible for executing final removal orders and supporting immigration enforcement measures as directed.
Secretary of Defense and Undersecretary of Defense for Policy (Elbridge Colby) – Tasked with implementing national security and defense policies, including those articulated as part of the America First policy and related directives.
Secretary of State – Implicitly responsible for restoring the functionality of U.S. embassies as part of the common‐sense measures discussed in the foreign policy dialogue.

Relevance Score: 5 (Directives affect Cabinet-level officials responsible for national security, immigration enforcement, and international diplomacy.)