A recent Economist/YouGov poll reveals a significant drop in President Trump’s favorability among Generation Z voters, from +19 points post-election to -18 points currently. This sharp decline contrasts with Trump’s gains among young voters in the 2024 election, suggesting that the Republican party cannot depend on this demographic for future electoral success. The poll shows a majority of U.S. adults view Trump unfavorably, with his overall net favorability rating at -6. This shift may be attributed to several controversial policies introduced since the election.
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NATO allies strongly emphasized the necessity of Ukrainian and European inclusion in any peace negotiations regarding the ongoing conflict. Concerns arose following the Trump administration’s indication of potential direct talks with Russia, excluding Ukraine and suggesting a shift in responsibility for European security. This prompted sharp criticism, with several ministers stressing the importance of European involvement and cautioning against appeasement tactics that might benefit Russia. While U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth denied betraying Ukraine, he also urged increased European defense spending, a stance met with varying responses from European counterparts. The future of NATO’s strength and unity was also raised as a key concern.
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A large-scale drone attack on Lipetsk Oblast on February 13th targeted the Novolipetsk Steel plant, a crucial facility responsible for a significant portion of Russia’s steel production. The attack, resulting in power outages and injuries, follows a previous attack on the same plant in February 2024. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted numerous drones across multiple regions, though these claims remain unverified. This incident adds to a series of recent drone strikes targeting Russian infrastructure deep within its territory.
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Mass firings of federal workers are underway, driven by the actions of the current administration, and this is causing significant unease and concern. The scale of these dismissals suggests a deliberate effort to reshape the government workforce, raising questions about the long-term impact on public services and the economy.
This purge extends beyond simple downsizing; it feels targeted, focusing on agencies that have historically been targets of conservative criticism. The stated justifications for these actions often clash with the reality of the situation. While claims of inefficiency are made, the reality is that many of the terminated employees held critical positions vital to the smooth functioning of their respective agencies.… Continue reading
Germany’s Inspector of the Navy, Vice Adm. Jan Christian Kaack, announced that multiple German warships were recently sabotaged, with damage affecting “more than one unit.” This follows a report detailing metal shavings deliberately placed in the engine of the new corvette, Emden, potentially causing significant damage. Kaack cited a growing and urgent threat from Russia, though he did not explicitly attribute responsibility for the sabotage. The incidents come amid a series of suspected attacks against German and allied infrastructure, prompting heightened security concerns.
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U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders is set to launch a nationwide pushback tour against former President Trump, beginning in Nebraska. This strategic choice of Nebraska, a state with a unique Electoral College system, highlights the potential impact of targeted campaigning in seemingly unlikely locations. The state’s split Electoral College votes, awarding one to each congressional district winner and two to the statewide winner, present an opportunity for targeted mobilization.
The tour’s focus on town halls underscores Sanders’ aim to connect directly with Americans and empower them to resist Trump’s influence. This approach, emphasizing grassroots engagement, recognizes the importance of personal interaction in galvanizing support and disseminating information about combating Trump’s political agenda.… Continue reading
Despite leading a Department of Government Efficiency focused on reducing federal spending, Elon Musk’s SpaceX has received substantial government contracts, including a recent $7.6 million NASA award and a previous $21 million award shortly after President Trump’s inauguration. These contracts, totaling billions of dollars, are fueling accusations of hypocrisy, particularly given Musk’s public criticisms of federal spending. Musk denies any conflict of interest, claiming he is not personally involved in contract negotiations, a statement met with widespread skepticism. The situation highlights a sharp contrast between Musk’s public pronouncements on government efficiency and SpaceX’s substantial financial ties to the federal government.
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January saw a record high average price of $4.95 for a dozen Grade A eggs, more than double the August 2023 low, primarily due to a large bird flu outbreak resulting in the culling of nearly 158 million birds. This surge accounts for two-thirds of the increase in overall food costs and has led to shortages in many grocery stores, with some locations experiencing significantly higher prices and limited availability. The USDA predicts a 20% increase in egg prices this year, and relief is not anticipated soon, exacerbated by increased holiday demand and ongoing production challenges. Higher feed, fuel, and labor costs, along with increased biosecurity measures and growing demand, further contribute to the price increases.
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Speaking at the World Governments Summit, Elon Musk advocated for the complete elimination of entire U.S. government agencies to combat inefficiency, likening partial agency reform to leaving weed roots intact. He believes this approach, implemented as head of the new Department of Government Efficiency, could reduce the federal deficit by $1 trillion by 2026. This drastic measure, exemplified by the near-shutdown of USAID and its potential absorption into the State Department, has already begun impacting global aid. Musk contends that while complete eradication of bureaucracy is impossible, a stronger foundation for U.S. governance can be established.
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The Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health Secretary in a 52-48 vote, despite significant Democratic opposition citing his lack of qualifications and anti-vaccine stance. His appointment, secured with key Republican support including Senators Cassidy, Collins, and Murkowski, places a prominent vaccine skeptic in charge of the nation’s $2 trillion healthcare system. This grants him oversight of agencies he has previously challenged, including the CDC and FDA. The confirmation followed Kennedy’s withdrawal from his presidential bid and subsequent endorsement of Donald Trump.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood