This week on DC Debrief, I sat down with Alex Cameron to unpack two very different — but equally important — storylines playing out in our nation’s capital.

📈 The Tariff Talk That’s Rattling Markets

If you’ve looked at your 401(k) this week, you already know: tariff chatter is heating up again. Alex gave us a 10,000-foot view of how the conversation is landing in Washington and what it could mean for Oklahoma.

While Democrats and even some quiet Republicans are voicing concerns, most of the Oklahoma delegation is standing firm behind the strategy, viewing it as a necessary reset to boost American jobs and manufacturing. Former President Trump has long argued that the U.S. has been treated unfairly in global trade, and this latest push is part of an effort to “level the playing field.”

Still, as Alex noted, it may be a long time before we see results. And in the meantime? Expect some economic pain — especially in states like Oklahoma that are deeply connected to agriculture and energy exports.

🌳 A Survivor Tree Takes Root in Washington

From policy to symbolism: this Monday, a seedling from Oklahoma City’s Survivor Tree will be planted on the U.S. Capitol grounds — a moment years in the making.

While there were rumors of a seedling planted at the White House years ago, nothing has been confirmed or found. This new planting on the northwest lawn of the Capitol will serve as a clear, permanent reminder of Oklahoma City’s resilience in the face of tragedy.

As Alex put it, this isn’t just about a tree. It’s about honoring the lives lost, the spirit of those who survived, and a state’s enduring promise: We have not forgotten.

Catch DC Debrief every week on News9.com and NewsOn6.com. Follow me at @MitchellTalks for more behind-the-scenes insights from Washington and beyond.