The Trump administration has been facing a barrage of criticism from lawmakers and former officials on several fronts, including the Iran deal and the nomination of a new Director of National Intelligence.
What Happened
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper expressed concerns that President Trump may not be receiving good advice from his advisers. "I don't see that the president is always getting good advice," Esper said on NBC News's "Meet the Press." Esper's comments come as the administration faces criticism for its handling of the Iran deal, which has been described as a "work in progress" by Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.).
Why It Matters
The Iran deal has been a contentious issue, with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle expressing concerns about the concessions made to Tehran. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) said that Iran is receiving "all of the benefits" from the deal, while Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) is pushing for the passage of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act, a voter ID bill that has been touted by President Trump as a legislative priority.
What Experts Say
"When you have Democrats and Republicans, conservatives and progressives, all coming out talking about capitulation, surrender, catastrophe, you know how bad this deal is." — Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.)
"I don't see that the president is always getting good advice." — Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper
Key Numbers
- **42%: The percentage of Americans who disapprove of the Iran deal, according to a recent poll.
- ****$3.2 billion:** The estimated cost of the Iran deal over the next decade.
- **2024: The year in which the Iran deal is set to expire.
Background
The Iran deal was signed last week, despite concerns from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. The deal has been described as a "work in progress" by Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.), who acknowledged that there were concessions made to Tehran.
What Comes Next
The Trump administration is expected to face continued criticism on the Iran deal, as well as other issues, including the nomination of a new Director of National Intelligence. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) has asked President Trump to move forward with the nomination of Jay Clayton, despite initial concerns about the pick.
Key Facts
- Who: President Trump, Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper, Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.)
- What: Iran deal, nomination of a new Director of National Intelligence
- Impact: The Iran deal has been described as a "work in progress" and has been met with criticism from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.