Following a legal challenge, the Trump administration reversed its decision to cut off Maine’s school meal funding, totaling over $3 million, after a federal judge ruled the USDA likely failed to adhere to legal procedures. This action stemmed from Maine’s refusal to comply with the administration’s anti-transgender sports ban, a move seen as using school meals to punish inclusive policies. The USDA agreed to restore funding and cease using this tactic, though separate legal action threatening broader education funding remains. This victory for Maine highlights a larger national battle over transgender rights and the use of federal funding to pressure states into discriminatory practices.
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In preparation for Portugal’s May 18th general election, the caretaker government announced plans to expel approximately 18,000 undocumented immigrants. The process will begin next week with voluntary departure requests for 4,500 individuals, followed by mandatory expulsion orders. This action comes amid a rise of populism in Portugal, with the far-right Chega party gaining significant influence. The current government, following a confidence vote loss, dissolved parliament and called for early elections.
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President Trump announced US aid to alleviate food shortages in Gaza, citing the suffering of the Gazan people. This assistance follows an Israeli cabinet approval of humanitarian aid alongside military action. The President blamed Hamas for exacerbating the crisis by appropriating incoming supplies. The US intervention aims to directly address the humanitarian needs of the population amidst ongoing conflict.
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Representative Collins’s inflammatory claim comparing a new halal restaurant in the House cafeteria to “the Muslim conquest of Jerusalem” is demonstrably inaccurate and reveals a profound lack of understanding of both geography and his colleagues. His own social media post contradicts his assertion, showcasing the Virginia-based location of the restaurant, while ignoring that a fellow Republican and other Muslim representatives serve alongside him. This incident highlights Collins’s history of intolerance, further emphasizing the need for greater understanding and inclusivity. His response is ultimately characterized by a lack of nuance and a disregard for factual accuracy.
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Lawmaker Mike Lawler’s town hall meeting was disrupted by constituents protesting his stance on presidential authority regarding tariffs, leading to several attendees’ removal by security personnel. This incident, captured on video and photos, follows a previous contentious town hall where Lawler faced accusations of dishonesty. Lawler, a Republican representing a swing district, is notable for continuing to hold these public forums despite the increasingly hostile responses. The use of state troopers, rather than private security, in removing protestors has prompted calls for an investigation.
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John Reilly, a Town of Chester highway superintendent and federally licensed firearms dealer, was arrested and charged with felony assault and weapons possession for allegedly shooting a lost DoorDash driver. The incident occurred Friday night after the driver, seeking directions, approached Reilly’s home, prompting Reilly to fire multiple shots, striking the driver in the back. The driver sustained serious injuries. Reilly is scheduled for a court appearance this Friday.
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US Defense Secretary Hegseth’s plan to drastically reduce the senior ranks of the military is deeply troubling. This involves removing key figures like the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and other high-ranking officers, a move that raises serious concerns about the integrity and independence of the armed forces.
The stated rationale for these actions is unclear, but the underlying implication suggests a desire to install individuals who are unequivocally loyal to the current administration, regardless of their adherence to constitutional principles. This raises troubling parallels to historical instances of authoritarian regimes purging military leadership deemed insufficiently compliant.
The removal of experienced and highly qualified officers represents a significant weakening of the military’s leadership structure.… Continue reading
House Democrats are investigating Elon Musk’s potential conflicts of interest as head of the Department of Government Efficiency. Letters sent to key Trump administration officials requested information regarding Musk’s ties to foreign powers, government contracts awarded to his companies, and past drug use. The Democrats aim to uncover potential vulnerabilities to coercion and corruption stemming from these connections. The inquiry follows previous reports detailing Musk’s financial support for the Trump campaign and his access to sensitive government information. A response from the recipients of the letters is pending.
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Dakota State University (DSU) will award an honorary doctorate and commencement speaking role to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, prompting a student-led protest. The demonstration will challenge Noem’s record on immigration and LGBTQ+ issues, actions students believe contradict DSU’s values. Fear of reprisal, particularly among international students and those in the cybersecurity program, has created a tense atmosphere on campus, despite faculty and student senate votes against the honor. This event marks a departure from DSU’s typically apolitical campus environment.
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On Air Force One, Donald Trump berated a Wall Street Journal reporter regarding ongoing peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. His outburst stemmed from a question about discussions with Vladimir Putin, leading to accusations that the Journal is “China-oriented” and a “rotten newspaper.” Trump refused to answer the reporter’s question, citing his dissatisfaction with the publication’s coverage. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between Trump and the WSJ, particularly regarding Trump’s past trade policies.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood