House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senator Cory Booker initiated a livestreamed sit-in protest on the U.S. Capitol steps, ahead of Congress’s return to session. Their demonstration, titled “An Urgent Conversation with the American People,” focuses on opposing a proposed Republican budget that would cut vital social programs. The protest features guest speakers and aims to highlight the importance of citizen engagement in the face of this critical legislation. The event is being shared widely on social media.
Read More
Despite claiming $160 billion in savings, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has incurred significant costs. A nonpartisan analysis estimates $135 billion in taxpayer expenses this fiscal year due to employee leave, rehires, and productivity losses stemming from DOGE’s actions. These costs, which exclude legal fees and lost tax revenue, are projected to increase. While DOGE anticipates long-term savings, critics argue the short-term costs outweigh any potential benefits, particularly considering the substantial economic ripple effects of reduced funding in key sectors.
Read More
Measles cases have surged to 884 across 29 states in 2025, fueled by a growing anti-vaccine sentiment echoing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s views. This increase includes outbreaks in at least six states, with Texas reporting the majority of cases. Tragically, three deaths, including two children, have been attributed to the disease—the first measles-related deaths in over a decade. The low vaccination rate among those infected (only 2 percent received the recommended MMR vaccine) underscores the severity of the situation and aligns with predictions of a potential measles resurgence.
Read More
Donald Trump’s second term has been marked by erratic behavior and increasingly unbelievable actions, including a public plea to Vladimir Putin and fantastical proposals regarding Canada and Gaza. His erratic foreign policy, characterized by contradictory actions and a lack of serious international engagement, has rendered him a global embarrassment, even as he holds immense power. This lack of seriousness, exemplified by his unrealistic ambitions, has led to a global perception of him as a hapless loser, despite his considerable power and potential to cause further harm. The world largely views Trump’s presidency as a self-inflicted wound, a boon for centrist politicians globally, and a source of embarrassment for fellow right-wing populists.
Read More
A new ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll reveals President Trump’s 100-day approval rating at a historic low of 39%, significantly lower than any president in the past 80 years. This disapproval stems from widespread public opposition to numerous policies and considerable economic anxiety, including prevalent recession fears. Despite this, Trump maintains a higher level of public trust than Congressional Democrats in handling national issues. The poll also highlights strong negative public sentiment towards several specific administration initiatives and actions.
Read More
President Trump’s approval rating currently stands at 41%, significantly lower than his predecessor’s at any point in their term and 19 points below his own starting rating. His net approval is -13, with disapproval highest among independents, younger voters, women, and minority groups. Conversely, strong Republican support maintains a sizeable approval segment. This contrasts sharply with historical presidential rankings, where Trump himself falls below even presidents he has previously criticized.
Read More
The Trump administration, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at HHS, has systematically dismantled crucial public health agencies, including SAMHSA, HRSA, ASPR, and ACL, resulting in the elimination of vital programs like the 988 Lifeline and Meals on Wheels. This drastic action has also led to the firing of thousands of experts and the termination of billions in funding for state and local health departments and critical research initiatives. These actions have severely hampered public health preparedness, access to healthcare, and vital medical research, jeopardizing the health and well-being of countless Americans. Despite some legal challenges, the ongoing assault on public health requires immediate Congressional intervention to prevent further damage.
Read More
President Trump’s second term deviates sharply from predecessors, exhibiting characteristics of an elected monarchy rather than a republic. His governance relies heavily on executive orders—exceeding previous presidents’ rates—often bypassing Congress and targeting institutions critical of his administration. This includes intimidation tactics against the judiciary, media outlets, and universities, coupled with the declaration of multiple national emergencies to expand executive power. Such actions, combined with his foreign policy choices, raise serious concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and institutions in the United States.
Read More
Following the dismissal of three high-ranking aides—Colin Carroll, Dan Caldwell, and Darin Selnick—from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s office, a bitter feud continues. Carroll is reportedly investigating a potential defamation lawsuit against former chief of staff Joe Kasper, even contacting Kasper’s former associates to inquire about alleged past cocaine use. Kasper vehemently denies these allegations, citing mandatory Pentagon drug testing. This ongoing conflict, fueled by accusations of both information leaks and toxic workplace behavior, has left the Secretary of Defense’s office severely understaffed amid critical geopolitical situations.
Read More
President Trump’s attacks on various institutions have revealed stark contrasts in responses. While some, like several major law firms and Disney, succumbed to pressure, making deals or settling lawsuits, others—including Perkins Coie, Harvard University, and the Associated Press—have resisted and filed lawsuits, prioritizing principles over immediate gain. The actions of Republican lawmakers have also varied widely, with some supporting Trump’s actions while others have shown dissent. Ultimately, history will judge those who chose expediency over courage.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker