According to a Fox News report, the FBI and Department of Justice are directing the U.S. Capitol Police to assist with interviews of six Democratic lawmakers who released a video advising service members they can refuse illegal orders. The video, which prompted former President Donald Trump to call for their arrest, has led to investigations, with the Department of Defense also opening an investigation into Senator Mark Kelly. The lawmakers, including Senator Elissa Slotkin and Representatives Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan, maintain their statements are in line with the Constitution and U.S. law, while Trump and others have labeled their actions as seditious. While interviews of lawmakers are not uncommon, this situation involves the content of public statements.
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Political analyst Nate Silver noted that disapproval of President Trump is slightly higher now than at a comparable point in his first term, with 55.9% disapproving. This negative sentiment is attributed to factors like the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case, economic policies, and general fatigue. Recent polls from The Economist/YouGov and Fox News indicate declining approval ratings and negative views on the economy, potentially impacting the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. Experts suggest that the predictability and perceived ineffectiveness of Trump’s policies could lead to a decline in popularity, opening doors for Democrats.
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In response to perceived intimidation, Kelly recounted his military and NASA service, highlighting his dedication to the country. He emphasized his commitment to his job and the Constitution, expressing that he would not be silenced by those prioritizing power. This comes amid illegal orders from the Trump administration, including a recent ruling against the deployment of the National Guard. Kelly’s statement directly challenges the administration’s actions and perceived threats.
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A planned White House announcement regarding a two-year extension of Obamacare subsidies was abruptly postponed due to reported Republican opposition, as federal subsidies are set to expire, potentially causing premium hikes for millions of Americans. Congressional Republicans expressed strong resistance to any extension of the subsidies, with some refusing to support the plan and others criticizing the White House’s approach. This situation has created a dilemma for the GOP, as avoiding the issue could lead to negative consequences in the upcoming midterm elections, while reaching a deal with Democrats to extend the subsidies may deepen internal divisions. Some Republicans are predicting early resignations, that Speaker Mike Johnson will be stripped of his gavel, and that they will lose the majority before this term is out.
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Melania Trump’s recent appearance at the White House Christmas tree arrival was brief, lasting less than three minutes, which aligns with previous criticisms of her engagement with holiday duties. Leaked audio from 2018 revealed her discontent with Christmas preparations, sparking further controversy. During her husband’s presidency, her unconventional holiday decor, particularly the “murder trees,” drew significant criticism. This year’s decorations are expected to be more minimal due to the East Wing renovations, despite anticipation for a gold-themed aesthetic.
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President Trump has called for the arrest and execution of several members of Congress for reminding military personnel to disobey unlawful orders. This follows a campaign by the Trump administration to target alleged drug smugglers, which many legal experts deem unlawful. American military tradition and law permit and even require soldiers to question and disobey orders perceived as unlawful, a principle reinforced by international law and the U.S. Constitution. Therefore, the actions of the President and Defense Secretary Hegseth in ignoring this principle betray a shocking misunderstanding of the legal and moral responsibility of the American military.
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In a recent social media episode, Donald Trump inadvertently amplified an anti-Trump account’s call for his impeachment while attacking Democratic lawmakers. He shared a screenshot from an account explicitly demanding his impeachment, thus undermining his own message. This gaffe occurred amidst a broader online tirade where Trump accused Democrats of “sedition” and retweeted a message suggesting they should be “hanged.” This incident follows a similar instance where he incorrectly referenced a Fox News appearance, further fueling concerns about his ability to stay on message.
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In a Friday exit manifesto, Greene criticized the legislature’s inaction during the majority’s first year, specifically regarding healthcare and the failure to address rising costs. She expressed frustration that her bills, mirroring President Trump’s Executive Orders, were ignored. Greene noted the public’s growing skepticism towards political messaging, emphasizing their awareness of personal financial struggles, including debt, rising living expenses, and economic anxieties. She implied that these everyday difficulties contribute to the public’s disillusionment with the political system.
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The White House responded to the dismissal of criminal cases against James Comey and Letitia James, asserting the Department of Justice (DOJ) will appeal the ruling. Judge Cameron McGowan Currie dismissed the cases due to the disqualification of interim U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan, whose appointment was deemed legally invalid. White House officials maintain the indictments’ facts remain unchanged, emphasizing the president’s commitment to accountability and correcting alleged weaponization of the justice system. The DOJ is expected to consider an appeal, which would move the case to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, or it could refile the charges with new leadership.
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The highly anticipated “patriotic” T1 smartphone, unveiled in June by the Trump administration, is facing significant delays, with its promised late-August release date unmet. Promised as a “Made in the USA” device, the gold-plated smartphone, marketed with a new wireless service called “Trump Mobile,” has pushed its shipping date back multiple times. The project’s website has removed any specific release date, instead continuing to accept deposits while assuring customers of availability “later this year,” and the promise of full American manufacturing has been walked back. Industry experts have cited the immense challenges of manufacturing smartphones entirely within the United States as a primary cause for the setbacks.
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John Q. Hosedrinker