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Trump Administration’s Role in Undermining US Workers’ Rights

The report specifically calls out the Trump administration for aggressively dismantling collective labor rights in the United States. During Trump’s tenure, union protections were stripped from over 47,000 Transportation Security Administration workers. Efforts to revoke civil service protections for federal employees also escalated, while firing a key National Labor Relations Board member effectively stalled the board’s functions. Additional cuts to federal labor agencies further weakened workers’ bargaining power. The administration’s close ties to anti-union billionaires allowed these figures to shape policies that favored corporate interests over worker protections. Since the report’s March 2025 cutoff, these harmful trends have reportedly continued, deepening challenges for American workers.

Deteriorating Workers’ Rights Across Most Global Regions

Workers’ rights worsened significantly across three out of five global regions, with the Americas and Europe hitting their lowest scores since 2014. Only seven out of 151 countries surveyed earned top-tier ratings for protecting labor rights, down sharply from 18 nations in 2015. The index found that 72% of countries restrict workers’ access to justice, 87% violate the right to strike, and 80% undermine collective bargaining. Countries such as Bangladesh, Belarus, Ecuador, Egypt, Eswatini, Myanmar, Nigeria, the Philippines, Tunisia, and Turkey ranked worst for labor rights. Conversely, Australia, Mexico, and Oman were among the few countries showing improvements in protecting their workforce.

Billionaire Influence and Political Choices Worsen Inequality and Workers’ Conditions

Luc Triangle, ITUC’s secretary general, warns that billionaires fueling these far-right regimes have increased their wealth while eroding democratic institutions. This billionaire “coup” over society concentrates power and wealth, worsening conditions for workers globally. The COVID-19 pandemic and rising inflation have reduced purchasing power, creating fertile ground for extremist parties. These groups, however, offer little real solution to working people’s problems. Triangle calls for reversing this trend through political choices that prioritize fair wages, social protections, and job creation. The federation argues that resources wasted on arms and unfair tax systems could instead fund meaningful support for workers.

ITUC Campaigns for Democracy and Workers’ Rights in Opposition to Authoritarian Trends

The ITUC advocates for a democratic framework that delivers tangible benefits to workers, standing against the model promoted by figures like Trump and Musk. The federation stresses that global inequality continues to rise, with the five richest people doubling their wealth in the last five years while 60% of the world’s population grows poorer. The ITUC calls for urgent reforms in taxation, social protections, and labor laws to rebuild workers’ rights and strengthen democratic governance. The campaign aims to mobilize global support for policies that protect workers and promote social justice as core democratic values in the face of rising authoritarianism.

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A Non-Prosecution Agreement May Settle the Case

In an online meeting, Department of Justice (DOJ) officials discussed the possibility of Boeing signing a non-prosecution agreement to resolve the case. This settlement would avoid a criminal trial set for June, where Boeing was facing a fraud charge. The DOJ’s proposal would allow Boeing to avoid a criminal record, which could complicate its government contracts.

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Legal Backlash From Victims’ Families

Families of those killed in the crashes have expressed disappointment over the DOJ’s potential decision. Erin Applebaum, a lawyer representing several victims’ families, criticized the DOJ’s actions. She stated that Boeing had never stood trial for its admitted crimes. Calling the new settlement plan a way for the company to avoid accountability with just a financial penalty.

Boeing’s Admission of Fault and Previous Settlements

Boeing’s initial settlement was meant to resolve the legal fallout from the crashes involving its 737 Max aircraft. With the company agreeing to pay a $2.5 billion fine and compensation to the victims’ families. In addition to the financial penalties, Boeing committed to enhancing its safety protocols and compliance programs to prevent future incidents. However, in 2022, an incident involving a 737 Max flight saw an unused door detach mid-flight, raising serious safety concerns. The Department of Justice (DOJ) argued that Boeing had violated the terms of its original settlement. Which led to the reopening of the case and new charges being filed against the company. This has resulted in a renewed legal battle, further complicating Boeing’s efforts to resolve the issue.

The Implications of a Non-Prosecution Agreement

A non-prosecution agreement would allow Boeing to avoid a criminal trial and any lasting criminal record. This move would enable Boeing to continue working with the government without facing significant legal repercussions. However, many believe this could undermine justice for the victims’ families and the public, as the company would not fully face the consequences of its actions. The court has set the case for trial on June 23, 2023, unless both parties reach a resolution beforehand.

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However, that might be starting to change. Two major HSR lines are currently under construction, marking a potential turning point for US rail transport. These developments have sparked new interest in the question: is the US finally catching up?

Rick Harnish from the High Speed Rail Alliance says it’s encouraging to see real progress. The first project is the California High-Speed Rail, connecting San Francisco and Los Angeles. The second is Brightline West, which will link Las Vegas to Los Angeles. While California’s mountainous terrain poses engineering challenges, the relatively flat route between Las Vegas and LA offers fewer obstacles.

More High-Speed Rail Plans Are on the Table, but Face Delays

In addition to California and Nevada, several other regions have plans for HSR lines. One proposed route would connect Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver. Another aims to link Dallas and Houston. However, both face major hurdles.

Planning for the Pacific Northwest route is moving slowly. Meanwhile, the Texas line suffered a major setback when the Trump administration canceled a $63.9 million grant. These obstacles highlight the uncertainty surrounding HSR expansion in the US, where projects often struggle with long delays, funding issues, and political opposition.

This is in stark contrast to China, which is expected to have more than 50,000 kilometers of high-speed rail by the end of the year. In Europe, countries like Spain and France have built strong HSR networks. Even the UK, despite funding issues, continues work on High Speed 2.

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Cultural and Political Barriers Slow Down US Progress

Experts say America’s slow progress on HSR is tied to its strong car culture and limited public transport investment. Journalist Will Doig explains that many Americans don’t see the need for high-speed rail, especially in rural or suburban areas where car travel dominates.

The US government has also often deprioritized rail investment. Amtrak, the country’s main passenger rail service, doesn’t operate any HSR lines. While it plans to introduce 160 mph Acela trains in the Northeast Corridor, only a small section of track allows speeds above 150 mph.

Politics further complicates progress. Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner recently resigned under reported pressure from the White House, adding more uncertainty. The government also declined support for the Dallas-Houston line, calling it a poor use of taxpayer money.

High-Speed Rail Needs Strong Federal Support to Succeed

Building effective HSR requires more than just tracks and trains. It also needs government support, long-term planning, and public buy-in. Rick Harnish emphasizes that without federal leadership, progress will remain limited.

The two ongoing projects—California High-Speed Rail and Brightline West—highlight the divide. The former is government-led, expected to finish by 2033. The latter is a private initiative aiming to open in 2028. While both are major steps forward, the US still lacks a national strategy for HSR expansion.

Future lines would need sealed, straight corridors without road crossings, making construction more difficult in urban areas. Cities like Houston and Dallas are densely built, making it harder to integrate new rail infrastructure. Scott Sherin from French train manufacturer Alstom notes that without public investment and planning, expansion into city centers will be especially difficult.

Learning From Global Examples and Looking Ahead

China’s approach offers a stark comparison. It not only builds HSR lines quickly but also uses them to boost its economy and extend geopolitical influence. Chinese cities with new HSR links see economic growth of over 14%, according to Denmark-based think tank 21st Europe.

China also exports its HSR expertise to countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Will Doig, author of High-Speed Empire, explains that this expansion strengthens China’s influence. However, such partnerships are unlikely in the US due to political tensions.

Europe, on the other hand, continues to expand its HSR network with strong public investment. EU think tanks now call for even broader connections between capitals and major cities. Kaave Pour from 21st Europe says the US must decide if it wants a future with strong public transit or continued car dependence.

Without a shift in national priorities and cultural mindset, America’s high-speed rail dreams may remain just that—dreams. But with two projects underway and more on the horizon, there are signs that the US might finally be on the right track.

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White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed the move during an interview with Fox News but provided no additional details about the extent of the funding cuts. Officials at the White House have not yet released further comments on the policy’s implementation.

The executive order directs the Department of Education to issue guidance for states on how to utilize federal funding formulas to expand K-12 scholarship programs. However, specific instructions on how these funds will be reallocated remain unclear.

Critical race theory, an academic concept primarily taught in law schools. Examines how racial bias is embedded in U.S. laws and institutions. It has become a key issue in the national debate over education, with critics arguing that it fosters division. While supporters maintain that it provides essential historical context on systemic racism.

Trump’s Executive Order Shifts Federal Education Policy

Critical race theory, a concept primarily discussed in law schools, is not part of standard K-12 curricula. However, conservative lawmakers and activists have widely used the term to criticize educational policies they argue emphasize racial disparities and portray American history negatively. Opponents claim it fosters division. While supporters argue that understanding institutional racism is essential for addressing inequality and promoting social equity.

It remains unclear how the order will affect teaching about race and systemic discrimination. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt did not provide details on enforcement measures but stated that the Department of Education would offer guidance on federal funding allocations.

During his recent inaugural address, Trump condemned what he called an education system that “teaches our children to be ashamed of themselves” and accused schools of encouraging students to dislike their country. His administration has positioned school choice as a solution. Aiming to redirect funds toward K-12 scholarship programs that offer alternatives to traditional public education.

Basil Smikle Jr., a political strategist, warned that the order could create a chilling effect on discussions about race and ethnicity in schools. Potentially discouraging educators from addressing historical and social issues related to discrimination. The policy shift reflects broader ideological battles over curriculum content and the role of education in shaping national identity.

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Federal Funds to Prioritize School Choice Programs

President Donald Trump’s executive order directs the U.S. Department of Education to prioritize federal funding for school choice programs. Aligning with conservative efforts to expand alternatives to public education. Supporters argue that school choice provides families with better academic options. While critics claim it undermines public schools that educate 50 million children nationwide.

Federal test scores from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) highlight the challenges facing educators post-pandemic. Recent results revealed that one-third of eighth graders and 40% of fourth graders scored below NAEP’s basic reading level. Marking the worst performance in the test’s three-decade history. These findings fuel debates over whether expanding school choice could improve academic outcomes.

Teachers’ unions and many Democratic leaders oppose school choice initiatives. Arguing that diverting funds from public schools weakens the system and exacerbates inequalities. However, some Democrats, like Jorge Elorza, CEO of Democrats for Education Reform, acknowledge the need for a stronger party stance on education reform.

“The Democratic response to school choice so far has been to oppose it,” Elorza stated. “But Democrats haven’t yet offered a compelling alternative, and that really needs to be a priority on their agenda.”

Military and Native American Families Included in School Choice Expansion

The order also mandates the U.S. Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, to develop a plan allowing military families to use Pentagon funds for private or alternative schooling. Additionally, the Department of the Interior must create a strategy to enable Native American families in the Bureau of Indian Education system to use federal funds for school choice.

This move aligns with long-standing conservative priorities but has sparked criticism from educators and policymakers who argue that diverting federal funds away from public schools could widen educational disparities. Advocates, however, contend that increasing school choice empowers parents to select the best learning environment for their children.

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