Donald Trump’s playful promotion of “Trump 2028” merchandise raises questions about the 22nd Amendment’s constitutionality, particularly given the lack of term limits for other federal offices. The amendment, passed after FDR’s four terms, restricts presidents to two terms. The segment suggests this restriction warrants further examination, citing the lack of similar limits in other branches as a potential constitutional flaw. This discussion frames Trump’s actions as potentially highlighting a broader issue of presidential term limits, not as a serious campaign announcement.
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At the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam, a child caused superficial scratches to Mark Rothko’s “Grey, Orange on Maroon, No. 8,” a painting valued at up to €50 million. The museum is assessing the damage and plans to restore the artwork. This incident follows other instances of artwork vandalism, including a 2012 attack on another Rothko painting and recent activist attacks at the National Gallery in London. The museum expects the painting to be displayed again.
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General Motors is recalling nearly 600,000 SUVs and trucks in the U.S. due to potential engine failure caused by manufacturing defects in the connecting rod and crankshaft of the 6.2L V8 engine. The recall encompasses 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL models. Dealers will inspect engines and perform repairs or replacements as needed; those passing inspection will receive higher-viscosity oil, a new oil fill cap, and an oil filter. This action follows a NHTSA investigation and numerous field reports of engine failures, including 12 crashes and 12 injuries.
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The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit to serve in Europe during World War II, will receive the Congressional Gold Medal. This long-overdue honor recognizes their extraordinary service in clearing a massive mail backlog in England and France, exceeding expectations by completing the task twice as fast as projected. Their accomplishments, previously overlooked, are now finally being celebrated, with the medal presented to the family of their commander, Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley. The recognition comes after a sustained campaign and highlights the significant contributions of these pioneering Black women to the war effort.
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Amazon considered, but ultimately rejected, displaying tariff charges on its discount platform, Amazon Haul, a move intended to compete with Temu and Shein. This decision followed a report suggesting Amazon would show tariff costs, prompting strong White House condemnation and a phone call from President Trump to Jeff Bezos. No changes were implemented on Amazon’s main site. The episode highlights the growing consumer visibility of tariff-related price increases in online retail.
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The USDA has withdrawn a proposed rule that would have mandated salmonella limits in poultry products, citing over 7,000 public comments. This decision reverses a Biden-era initiative aimed at reducing the 1.35 million annual salmonella infections, many foodborne, and approximately 420 associated deaths. Industry groups applauded the withdrawal, while advocates criticized the move as prioritizing industry concerns over public health. The USDA will now evaluate whether to update existing salmonella regulations.
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A video depicting a Cyber Electric employee giving a Nazi salute and uttering a homophobic slur from a Cybertruck sparked outrage online. The company’s name and contact information, visible on the vehicle, facilitated swift identification of Marco Diaz, the employee involved. Diaz issued an apology, attributing his actions to intoxication and provocation, though he denied using homophobic slurs. This incident comes amidst declining Tesla sales and profits, partly attributed to CEO Elon Musk’s controversial political stances.
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The Supreme Court is deciding whether victims of “wrong-house raids” can sue the federal government. This case stems from a 2017 incident where FBI agents mistakenly raided the wrong home, causing significant trauma to the occupants. The question hinges on the interpretation of the Federal Tort Claims Act, specifically whether it allows lawsuits for such errors regardless of whether officers followed orders. The government argues that holding them liable for every mistake would hinder law enforcement, while the plaintiffs contend Congress intended to provide recourse in precisely these circumstances. A ruling is expected this summer.
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In response to a challenging economic climate and a projected 50% reduction in volume from its largest customer, Amazon, UPS announced a restructuring plan. This plan includes a workforce reduction of approximately 20,000 employees (4% of its total workforce) and the closure of 73 facilities. These changes, effective by June 2025, aim to enhance the company’s efficiency and cost structure. CEO Carol Tomé expressed gratitude to employees while emphasizing UPS’ commitment to navigating the evolving global logistics landscape.
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Over 50,000 Los Angeles County workers, represented by SEIU Local 721, initiated a two-day strike due to stalled contract negotiations and alleged labor law violations by the county. The walkout, impacting services like libraries and healthcare clinics, marks the first time all union members have simultaneously struck. The county cites significant budget pressures, including wildfire damage and legal settlements, as reasons for its negotiating stance. The union, however, contends that the county’s actions disregard the essential contributions of its workers and demands fair compensation and respect.
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John Q. Hosedrinker