In her inaugural White House briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended President Trump's freeze on federal aid, arguing it aligns with his mandate. She ensured that essential programs like Medicare and Social Security are unaffected while announcing that the pause targets what she termed "illegal DEI programs". Additionally, she promoted engagement with "new media" journalists, establishing a shift in briefing protocols. Addressing immigration, Leavitt highlighted recent deportations, asserting that entering the country illegally constitutes criminality. This session marked a confrontational return to Trump-era media relations, emphasizing direct access for independent reporters.