Major Developments Involving Former President Donald Trump on August 31, 2025

WASHINGTON, Aug. 31 (AP) - Former President Donald Trump dominated headlines today with a series of high-profile policy announcements and organizational moves, from sweeping executive-branch proposals to high-stakes media-agency decisions.

Trump Pledges Nationwide Voter ID Executive Order

In a statement released Saturday evening, Trump vowed to sign an executive order mandating that “every vote” cast in federal elections be accompanied by a valid government-issued photo identification. The order, he said, aims to “restore confidence in our elections” by preventing what he described as “widespread voter fraud.” The measure would apply to absentee and in-person ballots alike and direct the Department of Justice to oversee enforcement and interagency coordination to implement the requirement before the 2026 midterm elections.

Cuts at the U.S. Agency for Global Media

Also on Saturday, the Trump administration’s appointee to the U.S. Agency for Global Media announced a reduction in force eliminating 532 full-time positions at Voice of America and related broadcasters. The job cuts come amid an ongoing court battle over the agency’s leadership and programming direction. Acting CEO Kari Lake defended the reductions as necessary to “improve its ability to function,” while VOA staffers pledged legal challenges to any further dismantling of the network.

Push to Rename Department of Defense

According to multiple reports, White House aides are exploring ways to restore the historic “Department of War” title in place of the Department of Defense. Trump, who raised the idea in Oval Office remarks earlier this week, told reporters that the old name “had a stronger sound” and better reflected an emphasis on offensive military capability. Congressional approval would be required, but the administration is reportedly considering alternative rule-making processes to effect the change.

Trump Highlights “Worker-First” Economy Amid Labor Day Weekend

Over the Labor Day weekend, Trump took to social media to tout what his team calls a “worker-first” economic agenda, claiming nearly $10 trillion in corporate investment pledges, half-a-million new jobs in 2025, and significant expansions in apprenticeship and training programs. His White House message cited landmark tax cuts, regulatory rollbacks, and an AI workforce plan. However, viral online rumors briefly questioned his whereabouts and well-being before he surfaced for a family golf outing at Trump National Virginia, donning a red “MAGA” cap.