During a supposed bipartisan celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence, President Trump used the platform to express his disdain for his political opponents, declaring “I hate them, too.” The event, organized by America250 to unite Americans, took place in Des Moines, Iowa, and was intended to be non-political. Despite the event’s intended purpose, Trump used the occasion to discuss his recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill” and weaponize Democratic dissent towards it for the upcoming midterms. Trump framed the bill’s passage as a “phenomenal victory” and a birthday gift for America.
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During a rally in Iowa, former President Donald Trump used the term “Shylocks,” a word considered an antisemitic slur, while discussing bankers. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) responded, calling Trump’s use of the term “very troubling and irresponsible” and highlighting its association with harmful stereotypes about Jewish people. This incident sparked backlash online, with some figures calling for the ADL to condemn the statement. Trump, when asked about the comment, stated he was unaware of the term’s negative connotations.
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President Trump signed an executive order directing the National Park Service to increase entry and recreation pass fees for non-U.S. residents to fund park improvements. This directive also instructs the Interior Department to provide preferential treatment to U.S. residents regarding recreational access rules, including permitting. Simultaneously, the order revoked a 2017 memorandum promoting diversity and inclusion in national parks and established the “Make America Beautiful Again” Commission. These actions coincide with the administration’s efforts to reduce National Park Service staff and budget, as the Interior Department proposed cutting over $1 billion to the Park Service.
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Following a recent hour-long phone call between U.S. President Trump and Russian President Putin, Trump reported that no progress was made regarding ending the war in Ukraine. The call, the sixth between the two leaders since January, focused on the conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East. Putin, according to a Kremlin aide, indicated Russia would continue pursuing its goals in the war. This comes as Russia intensifies attacks, and the U.S. paused weapons shipments, while Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasized the need for direct talks between national leaders to achieve peace.
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Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) criticized Republicans for their support of President Donald Trump’s bill, particularly highlighting their alleged willingness to vote for cuts to social programs in exchange for political gain. She specifically called out actions of Republican lawmakers, including Senator Lisa Murkowski’s support of the bill, despite expressed concerns. AOC’s statements came as the bill neared passage in the Lower House after overcoming opposition from several Republican holdouts, with the final vote being a close one.
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House Speaker Mike Johnson faced unexpected delays as he attempted to advance the tax and Medicaid-cutting bill passed by the Senate, encountering resistance from within his own party. Procedural votes stalled the process as some Republicans expressed concerns about the Senate version, creating a tense standoff. Despite the slim majority and several holdouts, Johnson kept the vote open, eventually leading to some Republicans changing their positions after pressure from Donald Trump and other officials. The situation highlighted the challenges in meeting Trump’s deadline, with the bill facing criticism for its substantial tax cuts paired with spending reductions that are expected to increase the national debt.
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Elon Musk has reignited his feud with Donald Trump, demanding the release of unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files as Trump’s spending bill faces a House vote. Musk, who opposes the bill due to concerns over deficits, previously claimed Trump’s name was in the Epstein files, though Trump has denied any involvement. This latest clash comes as Trump has threatened to investigate Musk and his companies. Despite their prior association, no evidence currently links Trump to Epstein’s crimes.
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During the Biden administration, a debate arose regarding the prosecution of Donald Trump, with some advocating for accountability and others prioritizing due process. This latter group, including figures in the legal and academic fields, largely influenced the administration’s approach. Consequently, law enforcement displayed reluctance in pursuing charges and trials were delayed, allowing Trump to potentially benefit politically from the delays. The article argues that this leniency has emboldened Trump, enabling his actions, and suggesting a slide towards authoritarianism. The author asserts that the hesitancy to hold Trump accountable, which is viewed as a lack of spine and cowardly, may pave the way for future demagogues.
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According to Michael Wolff, Donald Trump is reportedly claiming credit for tipping off The New York Times about Elon Musk’s alleged drug use, specifically ketamine, and other substances, as reported in May. Trump has been making disparaging remarks about Musk during phone calls with associates, fueled by the Tesla and SpaceX CEO’s opposition to a spending bill Trump is championing. This ongoing feud, and Musk’s threat to form a new political party, has intensified the conflict between the two, with Trump even suggesting Musk’s government subsidies could be jeopardized. Wolff’s claims are based on tracking Trump’s phone calls, while Trump’s communications director has previously refuted such claims.
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House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has been speaking for hours using the “magic minute” rule, delaying a vote on President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”. The bill, which includes significant tax cuts and spending reductions, aims to extend tax breaks and cut Medicaid and food stamps. Jeffries is speaking against the legislation, branding it as an “all-out assault” on Americans’ health and living standards, with a focus on those who would be negatively impacted by the bill. This ongoing speech comes as House Republicans prepare to vote on the bill before a self-imposed deadline.
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John Q. Hosedrinker