A leaked TikTok video captured former Representative Matt Gaetz texting his mother, revealing his efforts to influence former President Donald Trump’s stance on potential involvement in the Iran-Israel conflict. In the texts, Gaetz discussed “guiding” Trump on foreign policy, asserting his ability to influence the former president’s decisions, and shared private family news. The video also highlighted Gaetz’s opposition to U.S. intervention in the conflict, echoing sentiments expressed on his show, where he criticized Trump’s advisors. Gaetz responded to the video stating that he was recorded without his knowledge, and he stated that he was texting his mother about news of the day and family finances.
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In an effort to downsize the federal workforce, the Trump administration initiated layoffs and voluntary retirements, but many of these actions have been reversed. Agencies are now rehiring employees and ordering others back from leave to fill critical gaps in services. This backtracking highlights a loss of expertise and capacity within the government, which experts fear could lead to serious issues. Several departments, including Health and Human Services and the National Weather Service, have rehired numerous employees, driven by the need to maintain essential services, while the administration is still implementing its “reduction-in-force” plans.
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A 21-year-old Norwegian tourist, Mads Mikkelsen, claims he was denied entry into the U.S. at Newark Liberty International Airport and accused authorities of harassment. He was reportedly questioned about potential involvement in illicit activities and placed in a holding cell. Mikkelsen alleges that officials demanded access to his phone, where they discovered a meme of Vice President J.D. Vance, which they disapproved of. Despite pleading that the meme was a joke, he was denied entry, had his blood drawn, and was put on a flight back to Norway, while the Department of Homeland Security has not commented.
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As New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary reached its final day, support for democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani was gaining momentum, causing alarm among wealthy backers of former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Polls indicated a close race between Mamdani and Cuomo, with the possibility of Mamdani’s victory concerning Wall Street figures and other wealthy donors. Some billionaires have even threatened to leave the city or close businesses if Mamdani is elected, while others have expressed their fear of his potential success. Mamdani’s platform focuses on progressive policies such as free public services, drawing support from prominent progressives and setting up a potential battle between organized money and organized people.
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Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani is poised to win the Democratic nomination for mayor after former Governor Andrew Cuomo conceded following the first round of ranked-choice primary votes. With 44% of the vote, Mamdani led Cuomo’s 36%, a victory celebrated by supporters. Key to Mamdani’s success was his ability to mobilize new and young voters, outmatching a well-funded campaign by Cuomo. While official results are pending, Mamdani’s win signals a shift in the city’s political landscape.
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In response to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s call for his impeachment regarding the bombing of Iran, former President Trump launched a lengthy attack on the congresswoman, calling her “dumb” and questioning her qualifications. He then went on to criticize her and other progressive women of color in the Democratic Party. Trump also challenged Ocasio-Cortez to take the same cognitive test he once completed. In addition, he suggested she focus on her own district rather than pursuing his impeachment, while referencing low poll numbers for Democrats.
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Following Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s call for his impeachment due to his actions in Iran, former President Trump responded with a lengthy Truth Social post. Trump attacked Ocasio-Cortez’s intelligence and qualifications for office, while also criticizing other Democratic congresswomen. He challenged her to take a cognitive test, similar to one he previously completed. Furthermore, Trump belittled her district and predicted electoral challenges for her and other Democrats.
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Following President Trump’s criticism of her call for impeachment, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez responded on X. Trump had called her “stupid” for her stance on his decision to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. Ocasio-Cortez retorted by urging Trump to direct his anger towards those who advised him and accused him of violating the Constitution and breaking his promises. Trump had earlier criticized her on X, attributing her “rantings” to the success of his administration and questioning her qualifications for office.
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Following Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s statements regarding President Trump’s authorization of strikes on Iran, Trump challenged her to pursue impeachment proceedings. Trump suggested Ocasio-Cortez should focus on her own political standing, referencing low poll numbers. Ocasio-Cortez responded by criticizing Trump’s actions regarding Iran, asserting it violated the Constitution and warranted impeachment. In addition, Representative Al Green introduced new Articles of Impeachment against Trump, citing violations of the War Powers Clause.
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In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court’s conservative majority has allowed the Trump administration to resume expedited deportations of immigrants to countries other than their homeland, a move that the three dissenting liberal justices labeled a “gross abuse” of power. The ruling, which lacks any stated rationale from the majority, means immigrants can be deported without prior notice or the opportunity to challenge their removal, potentially exposing them to harm. This decision overturns a lower court’s order that had required migrants to be able to challenge deportations if they felt they may face torture or death. The dissent, penned by Justices Sotomayor, Kagan, and Jackson, decried the ruling as “incomprehensible” and “inexcusable,” arguing it rewards lawlessness.
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John Q. Hosedrinker