The Trump administration moved to dismiss the lawsuit regarding Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s deportation and subsequent return, arguing the case is moot due to his repatriation. The Justice Department contends that Abrego Garcia’s return to the U.S. satisfies the plaintiffs’ demands, rendering further legal action unnecessary. However, Abrego Garcia’s legal team counters with accusations of government defiance and obstruction, seeking sanctions for alleged noncompliance with court orders. The administration’s claim of good-faith compliance is disputed, given prior statements and actions contradicting their current position. The dispute centers on whether the government’s actions warrant punishment despite the ultimate return of Abrego Garcia.
Read More
The Trump administration issued a stop-work order, effective July 17th, ending the 988 suicide hotline’s dedicated LGBTQ youth line, a service averaging 2,100 daily contacts. This action, preempting a proposed budget cut, eliminates specialized support for LGBTQ youth, who are at a significantly higher risk of suicide. Critics condemn this decision as potentially fatal for thousands and point to the timing, one day before the Supreme Court upheld a ban on gender-affirming care for minors, as deeply concerning. The administration’s claim to broaden service to “all help seekers” omits mention of transgender and queer individuals, raising further alarm.
Read More
The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at 4.25 to 4.5 percent, citing continued economic expansion, low unemployment, and elevated inflation as justification. This decision comes despite pressure from President Trump, who criticized Chair Jerome Powell and even suggested appointing himself to the position. The FOMC stated its commitment to maximum employment and 2 percent inflation, maintaining the current rate to support these goals. Powell defended the decision, emphasizing the FOMC’s aim for a strong economy with price stability, while acknowledging ongoing monitoring of economic data.
Read More
In a stark economic forecast, the Federal Reserve projects aggressive stagflation for the remainder of 2025, anticipating 3 percent inflation, a 1.4 percent GDP decline, and 4.5 percent unemployment. This projection follows the Trump administration’s consideration of increased aid to Israel and the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which significantly increases the national deficit. Fed Chair Powell reiterated that the current economic downturn stems directly from President Trump’s tariffs. The Fed maintains its current interest rate policy despite the projected stagflation.
Read More
President Trump stated he remains undecided on whether to authorize U.S. military strikes against Iranian uranium enrichment sites, despite hinting at the possibility. He cited recent progress in countering Iran, describing the situation as evolving rapidly and suggesting a decision is imminent. While Trump claims Iran desires negotiations, Iran vehemently denies this, rejecting any negotiation under duress. Trump’s comments follow escalating tensions and his earlier urging of Tehran residents to flee.
Read More
Rachel Maddow contrasted the widespread “No Kings” protests with the low turnout at Trump’s military parade, highlighting the president’s dwindling popularity. She characterized Trump’s premature departure from the G7 summit and his erratic tariff policies as further evidence of his weakening international and domestic standing. Maddow argued that Trump’s perceived failures are emboldening his opponents while simultaneously causing unease among his allies. She concluded that his “weak and feckless” leadership is increasingly unsustainable.
Read More
President Trump is reportedly considering disbanding the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, currently led by Tulsi Gabbard. This consideration stems from Gabbard’s unauthorized social media video criticizing the actions of “political elites and warmongers,” which the President interpreted as undermining his administration’s pro-Israel stance regarding Iran. Trump’s dissatisfaction intensified following Gabbard’s congressional testimony on Iran’s nuclear capabilities, contradicting his own assertions. Sources indicate that the President believes Gabbard provides no value to his administration, leaving her future role uncertain.
Read More
In a White House press conference, President Trump unexpectedly questioned a group of construction workers about the presence of undocumented immigrants, asserting his administration’s large-scale deportation efforts targeting “murderers, drug dealers, and people that are mentally insane.” Despite recent concessions acknowledging negative impacts on agriculture and hospitality, the administration swiftly reversed a policy temporarily halting raids on farms and hotels, prioritizing the removal of “criminal, illegal aliens.” Trump highlighted a reported zero release of undocumented immigrants in May, while simultaneously claiming that legal immigrants must express love for America. The event concluded with the President posing for photos with the construction crew installing new flagpoles.
Read More
Arizona Representative Abe Hamadeh has requested a federal investigation into Runbeck Election Services, alleging improper handling of ballots in multiple western states during the 2024 election. His letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi cites credible reports of blank ballots being improperly mixed with returned ballots at a Runbeck warehouse, raising concerns about election integrity. The request seeks to determine if security protocols were followed and the potential impact on election results. The DOJ has yet to respond, while concerns regarding election integrity persist following the closely contested 2024 presidential election.
Read More
New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, a mayoral candidate, was arrested by ICE agents at an immigration court after questioning the lack of a warrant during a migrant’s detainment. Video footage shows Lander being handcuffed while asking for legal justification for the arrest. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from fellow politicians and social media users, who denounce the arrest as an example of ICE overreach and political intimidation. Lander remains in custody, and the event follows a similar incident involving Senator Alex Padilla, highlighting concerns about potential abuses of power by ICE.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker