Daily Signals

Your daily dose of what's happening in the world today
Tuesday February 18, 2025

NY Governor Kathy Hochul considers removing NYC Mayor Eric Adams

New York Governor Kath Hochul met with top leaders in her NYC offices Monday to discuss a path forward with Eric Adams, after 4 of his top staffers resigned according to reporting by Axios.

First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer was one of the top officials to resign. The officials stepped down after a Justice Department official requested the dropping of bribery and fraud charges against Adams, who has denied any wrongdoing and refused to resign.

Hochul noted that removing an elected mayor is unprecedented in New York’s history but expressed concern over the alleged misconduct in City Hall. Adams’ press secretary emphasized his commitment to New Yorkers and highlighted his administration’s accomplishments despite the investigation. While Adams expressed disappointment over the resignations, his office assured a smooth transition as they work to find replacements.

European Leaders Convene in Paris to Address Escalating Ukraine Conflict

European leaders, including UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, have gathered in Paris for an urgent summit focused on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The discussions aim to define Europe's defense and peacekeeping roles amid warnings from Ukraine about potential Russian aggression towards NATO if U.S. support diminishes. Simultaneously, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is engaging in separate talks with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia, seeking diplomatic solutions to the crisis. The summit highlights divisions within the European Union regarding military commitments and defense spending, as well as concerns over the exclusion of certain EU leaders from the discussions. 

EPA Administrator Uncovers Mismanagement of $20 Billion Green Energy Fund

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin has revealed that a $20 billion fund, established during President Biden's tenure for green energy projects, is being managed by Citibank without adequate oversight. The fund's allocation has come under scrutiny, with concerns about potential conflicts of interest and misappropriation of resources. Administrator Zeldin emphasizes the necessity for accountability and plans to recover unallocated funds while ensuring thorough examination of all financial activities associated with the program.

Latest in DOGE

• Clarification on DOGE Leadership: The White House has officially stated that Elon Musk does not lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). While Musk serves as a senior adviser to President Trump, he holds no formal authority within the department. This clarification comes amid legal discussions concerning the department's leadership and Musk's influence. Politico
• Access to Taxpayer Data: Reports indicate that an employee associated with DOGE has sought access to the Internal Revenue Service's Integrated Data Retrieval System, which contains sensitive financial information of U.S. taxpayers. This move has raised concerns among IRS employees and privacy experts about potential misuse of such data. 
• Expansion to Regulatory Agencies: The Department of Government Efficiency, under Musk's guidance, is expected to extend its cost-cutting initiatives to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the coming days. This development is notable given Musk's historical disputes with the SEC over regulatory matters. 
• Public Perception and Criticism: Elon Musk's approach to restructuring federal agencies through DOGE has drawn both support and criticism. While some praise the efforts to reduce governmental inefficiencies, others express concern over the rapid changes and potential overreach, especially regarding access to sensitive information.

Israel and Hamas Enter Second Phase of Ceasefire Negotiations

Israeli officials have announced the commencement of negotiations for the second phase of a ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza. The initial phase involved the exchange of hostages and detainees, along with a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. The upcoming discussions aim to address the demilitarization of Gaza and establish long-term peace agreements. However, the truce remains fragile, with both sides accusing each other of violations, and international observers urging adherence to international law.

Severe Weather Causes Fatalities and Damage in Eastern U.S.

A powerful storm system has resulted in significant flooding across parts of Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, and Tennessee. In Kentucky alone, at least 12 people have died, and over 1,000 individuals have been rescued from floodwaters. The severe weather has also led to widespread power outages and property damage, prompting state officials to declare emergencies and request federal assistance for recovery efforts.