On Sunday, President Trump announced plans to send letters to US trade partners beginning Monday, outlining new tariff rates on goods sold to Americans, with some deals also in the works. Although the president was initially uncertain about the implementation date, the Commerce Secretary clarified that the new rates would take effect on August 1st. These tariffs, originally set in April and delayed until July 9th, now offer a further reprieve, while also creating uncertainty for importers. US officials are also preparing for major trade announcements in the coming days, and the possibility for deadlines being pushed back exists based on the nature of negotiations.
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President Trump’s executive order, mandating the housing of incarcerated transgender women in men’s prisons and halting gender-affirming care, is explored as it endangers a vulnerable population. The order disregards court rulings, including Farmer v. Brennan, which established protections for inmates against harm. Advocates like Deidre Farmer and Ronnie Taylor discuss the devastating impact of these policies, which lead to increased violence, discrimination, and the denial of basic human rights for transgender individuals. They emphasize the need for education and for society to recognize and support the transgender community.
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Once proponents of “America First” isolationism, MAGA influencers are now supporting potential military action in Iran, revealing a shift away from their prior anti-war stance. This is likely due to the group’s prioritization of fealty to Donald Trump, as demonstrated by the actions of prominent influencer Laura Loomer. Loomer’s influence within the administration is exemplified by her direct access to Trump and ability to influence personnel decisions, even going so far as to provide a list of names to the president resulting in firings. While her influence may be waning, Loomer continues to maintain strong ties to Trump, and her primary focus remains on maintaining his support, even if it means supporting actions that contradict prior stated principles.
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The Independence Day tragedy in Texas, where over 50 people died due to severe flooding, is under scrutiny, with budget cuts to the National Weather Service and NOAA ordered by the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) potentially contributing to the loss of life. The cuts, including staff reductions and a hiring freeze, had led to warnings from meteorologists that the American people would suffer and lives would be put in danger. The National Weather Service issued warnings of the storm’s severity only after midnight, long after many campers were asleep. The Trump administration is now facing criticism over the cuts, while private weather companies like AccuWeather are promoting their own forecasts and blaming local officials for the tragedy.
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Secretary Kristi Noem defended the Trump administration’s response to the Texas flash floods, attributing the delayed warning to outdated technology and highlighting ongoing upgrades. Noem deflected criticism by stating the administration is working to fix neglected systems, shifting blame to previous administrations. While acknowledging concerns regarding cuts to weather research labs, she assured reporters she would convey these issues to President Trump. The report also mentioned recent cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Weather Service as well as Trump’s plans to phase out FEMA.
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Cynthia Olivera, a Canadian national, was detained by ICE agents while applying for permanent US residency, despite her husband’s support for Donald Trump’s immigration policies. Olivera’s husband, a US citizen, expressed feeling betrayed by the administration, highlighting the couple’s belief that her undocumented status would not be a barrier. Despite having lived in the US for decades and working legally for years, Olivera faces deportation after a previous deportation order. The Trump administration labeled her as an “illegal alien” who re-entered the country illegally, justifying her continued detention.
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President Donald Trump’s proposal to host a UFC event at the White House to celebrate the United States Semiquincentennial has sparked widespread criticism, with many comparing the idea to the dystopian film “Idiocracy.” Critics expressed concern over the event’s potential to diminish White House decorum and distract from pressing issues, citing parallels to the film’s portrayal of a dumbed-down society. Some also pointed to Trump’s longstanding business relationship with UFC President Dana White and viewed the event as a form of “authoritarian theater,” reminiscent of fascist regimes. The event is seen by some as a cynical attempt to project strength and distract the public with spectacle.
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Donald Trump and his allies are targeting the U.S. census, with a new proposal backed by Trump aiming to alter the electoral map significantly. This plan, championed by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, would mandate a new census that only counts U.S. citizens, effectively excluding non-citizens from the apportionment process. This proposal, mirroring a previous Republican bill, is framed as a response to false claims of election rigging and is seen by critics as an unconstitutional attack on the electoral system. Such actions align with historical efforts by white supremacists, violating the Constitution’s requirement to count all residents for apportionment and potentially leading to a constitutional crisis.
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A recent report reveals that the U.S. is projected to be the only country out of 184 to experience a decrease in foreign visitor spending in 2025. This decline, driven by policies and rhetoric from the Trump administration, could result in a loss of billions of dollars for the U.S. economy. The World Travel and Tourism Council’s study indicates a potential $12.5 billion loss in international spending, with some analysis suggesting the shortfall could be much higher. The drop is particularly notable among Canadian visitors, while countries like Mexico are expected to see significant growth in tourism revenue.
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The Trump administration has announced it will withhold nearly $7 billion in K-12 education funds approved by Congress, sparking criticism from lawmakers and education advocates. The withheld funds include money for English learners, migrant farmworker children, teacher training, and after-school programs. The administration claims the move is part of a review due to alleged misuse of funds, though documentation has not been provided. States and organizations are challenging the decision, citing it as an illegal impoundment that will negatively impact schools and students.
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John Q. Hosedrinker