Pope Leo XIV has publicly condemned Donald Trump’s military operation in Iran, stating that God does not heed the prayers of those who engage in warfare. During his Palm Sunday address, the pontiff advocated for peace, reminding worshipers that Jesus Christ rejects the prayers of those with “hands full of blood.” The Pope expressed deep concern for “crucified humanity” and urged those instigating conflicts to have mercy on the victims. This statement comes amid reports of U.S. officials using religious justifications for the war, with some commanders reportedly invoking divine plans and Armageddon to encourage troops, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praying for “overwhelming violence” in Iran.
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The article details a historical trend of declining tax burdens for the wealthiest Americans, particularly the top 1 percent and even more so for billionaires. This decline is attributed to decades of Republican tax cuts and policy changes, as well as the ability of the ultra-rich to avoid taxes by leveraging unrealized gains on their assets. Public sentiment strongly favors increased taxation on billionaires, with various proposals like taxing unrealized gains or implementing a direct wealth tax gaining traction. However, these proposals face significant political and financial opposition from the billionaire class itself, alongside concerns from some elected officials about economic competitiveness.
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At a recent CPAC gathering, the MAGA faithful grappled with the ramifications of President Trump’s foreign policy decisions, particularly the burgeoning conflict in Iran, in his absence. While some attendees, like Erik Prince and Jason Redman, voiced strong opposition to a potential ground invasion, citing dire consequences, others, such as Ric Grenell, defended the president’s actions as wise and necessary. The internal debate highlighted a movement facing internal divisions and external challenges, amplified by declining approval ratings and upcoming midterm elections.
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The massive public demonstrations across the U.S. on Saturday, with an estimated nine million participants, offered a glimmer of hope that the nation is awakening to the active responsibility required to maintain democracy. This historic turnout signaled a rejection of unchecked power and a demand for a government truly “by, for, and of the people,” rather than succumbing to internal threats fueled by complacency and self-satisfaction. The protests underscore that national greatness and goodness, like democracy, are verbs requiring continuous effort and participation, not passive entitlements. The article suggests that if this energy translates into sustained activism and the election of forward-thinking leaders, a fundamental shift toward policies serving the many, not just the few, may be possible.
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Former Customs and Border Patrol “commander at large” Greg Bovino refused to relinquish official government social media accounts after his retirement, claiming the followers were his personal following. These accounts, belonging to the Border Patrol’s El Centro, California, regional office, were used by Bovino to promote his role in anti-immigration raids. Despite resistance and claims of ownership over the amassed followers, the accounts have now been shut down by the federal government.
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Iran has recently added the demand for recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz to its list of war-ending requirements, seeking to leverage the vital global shipping lane for revenue and economic pressure. The country’s success in disrupting trade through attacks has apparently expanded its ambitions, with lawmakers considering a bill to impose tolls on vessels using the strait. This move aims to formalize control and potentially generate billions, rivaling the Suez Canal, as a means to offset economic shortfalls from sanctions.
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The “No Kings” demonstrations saw an unprecedented turnout, with organizers estimating at least 8 million Americans participating in over 3,300 events across all 50 states. This third mobilization surpassed previous events in both attendance and number of locations, with a significant presence in traditionally “red” and battleground states, from major cities to rural towns. Protesters aimed to convey a message against perceived “power grabs,” an undeclared war, and efforts to suppress freedoms, underscoring that “in America, we don’t do kings.” Numerous prominent organizations, including the ACLU and MoveOn, partnered in organizing these widespread, nonviolent protests.
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This is the main event, organizers stated, and the one the whole country is watching, signifying its nationwide spotlight. Demonstrations are scheduled across multiple cities, including a march and rally on the National Mall in Washington D.C., anticipating a massive turnout similar to previous large-scale protests. Chicago is also set to host several planned demonstrations this Saturday.
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New Fox News polling indicates a negative shift in President Trump’s approval among Catholics and Protestants, with approval falling into negative territory for both groups. This trend contrasts with strengthened support among white evangelicals, whose approval rating has notably increased. These shifts within key religious voting blocs may signal evolving political pressures ahead of upcoming elections.
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In a significant gathering of American farmers at the White House, President Trump celebrated his administration’s agricultural accomplishments. However, this event was notably absent of Black farmers, a demographic that has faced exclusion from administration dialogues and the elimination of programs aimed at addressing historical disparities. Despite attempts to be included, representatives for Black farmers received no response from the White House, with one official reportedly stating that the administration was prioritizing white farmers and moving away from DEI initiatives. This exclusion comes at a critical time for many Black farmers facing financial hardship and potential foreclosures, leading to calls for intervention from the Congressional Black Caucus.
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John Q. Hosedrinker