Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska cast the deciding vote in favor of the Senate’s budget bill, a bill that increases the deficit while enacting tax cuts and cutting social programs. While acknowledging the legislation’s detrimental effects, she defended her vote by citing provisions beneficial to Alaska, like waivers for SNAP benefit payments. Murkowski admitted to struggling with the bill’s impact on vulnerable populations and expressed hope the House would amend it, even though she voted in favor of it. She emphasized advocating for her state’s interests while conceding she didn’t like the bill, which has garnered intense criticism.
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The Trump administration’s new rules significantly shorten the enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act, reversing a prior expansion of access. Democratic mayors from Baltimore, Chicago, and Columbus, Ohio, have filed a lawsuit against the federal health department challenging the new rules, arguing they will lead to more uninsured residents and overburden city services. The lawsuit alleges the rules create barriers to affordable insurance coverage and will raise costs for millions of Americans. The new rules, which are set to go into effect in 2026, include shorter enrollment periods, stricter income verification, and a $5 fee for some who automatically re-enroll in free plans.
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A recent Gallup poll revealed a record low of 58% of Americans expressing extreme or very proud sentiments about their country, a notable decrease from previous years. The decline in national pride was most pronounced among Democrats and younger generations, widening the gap between the two major political parties to the largest point since 2001. While political factors may contribute, the trend of waning patriotism extends across the political spectrum, with generational differences also playing a role. Analysts attribute the overall long-term decline to a combination of intense partisan divisions, economic hardships, and general dissatisfaction with the current state of the United States.
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A Senate bill, approved by former President Donald Trump, proposes a 500% tariff on goods from countries trading with Russia, specifically targeting India and China, who are major purchasers of Russian oil. The bill, co-sponsored by Senator Lindsey Graham, aims to pressure these nations to cease supporting Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. Initially facing resistance from the White House, the bill has gained momentum, potentially causing a significant shift in US trade relations with Beijing and New Delhi. While the administration previously expressed hesitations regarding sanctions’ economic impact, it now seems prepared to support the legislation.
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According to a recent Emerson College Polling survey, Pete Buttigieg has emerged as the frontrunner for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, garnering 16% support among likely primary voters, surpassing Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom. This shift contrasts with a November poll that saw Harris with a substantial lead. Buttigieg’s appeal stems from his ability to connect with diverse audiences, demonstrated by his engagement in various media appearances and his responses to national issues. On the Republican side, JD Vance leads the early field with 46% support.
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In a recent press conference, President Trump stated that if NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani attempts to prevent ICE officials from making arrests in the city, Mamdani will be arrested. This declaration follows Mamdani’s vow to remove ICE from the city and Trump’s previous criticisms of Mamdani, whom he has labeled a “communist.” Trump and border czar Tom Homan have also threatened to cut off federal funding to the city if Mamdani becomes mayor. Mamdani has refuted the communist label and stated that he’s simply fighting for a better distribution of wealth.
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According to ranked choice voting results released Tuesday, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the New York City Democratic mayoral primary. Mamdani secured 56% of the vote in the final round, with a total of 545,334 votes. Cuomo’s campaign responded, downplaying the results while also hinting at a possible independent run in the general election. Meanwhile, Trump labeled Mamdani a “communist” and threatened arrest, emphasizing the political battle ahead as Mamdani prepares to face Mayor Eric Adams, independent candidate Jim Walden, and Republican Curtis Sliwa in the general election.
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The opening of a controversial immigrant detention center in Florida, informally dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” drew the attention of President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who joined state officials for the event. The facility, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis, has faced significant opposition from Democrats and environmental groups due to humanitarian and environmental concerns. The facility is designed to deter undocumented immigrants through harsh conditions and is located in an area prone to hurricanes. The project, expedited through emergency powers, aims to house up to 3,000 individuals and has generated national media attention, while environmental groups have filed a lawsuit challenging the facility’s impact on the Everglades ecosystem.
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The Senate successfully passed President Trump’s megabill after extensive negotiations and a lengthy amendment process, culminating in a tie-breaking vote from Vice President J.D. Vance. Despite Republican defections from Senators Tillis, Paul, and Collins, the bill narrowly passed the upper chamber. However, the legislation faces an uncertain future in the House, where it must overcome significant GOP opposition and address substantial Senate amendments. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill will significantly increase the federal deficit over the next decade.
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Following the Senate’s passage of President Trump’s bill, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized the bill, specifically citing Senator JD Vance’s tie-breaking vote as a betrayal of working families, while also highlighting concerns of Medicaid cuts. The bill, which adds to the national debt according to the Congressional Budget Office, faced opposition from Democrats and some Republicans, with Lisa Murkowski ultimately supporting the bill after negotiations. Despite these concerns, House Majority Leader Mike Johnson aims to pass the bill in the House before Trump’s July 4 deadline.
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John Q. Hosedrinker