A leaked document from Matt Gaetz’s laptop reveals a potential contract with marijuana company Trulieve, offering over $2 million in exchange for his “administration-related guidance” and Trumpworld connections. The contract, as suggested by the image, outlines fees for legal representation, consulting, and achieving “exclusive policy remedies,” potentially linked to the reclassification or legalization of marijuana, which Gaetz has previously supported. Gaetz, who was once considered for Attorney General under Trump, has been a vocal advocate for cannabis reform and has previously worked with Trump. The revelation highlights the financial opportunities available to those connected to the former president, especially given Trump’s stance on marijuana.
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The U.S. Department of Justice is suing Washington state over Senate Bill 5375, a new law requiring clergy to report sexual abuse, due to its potential impact on the confidentiality of confession. The DOJ argues that the law infringes upon religious freedom protections guaranteed by the First Amendment. The lawsuit aligns with the concerns of Catholic bishops in Washington, who also filed their own suit against the state to block the law. A hearing is expected this summer, with the outcome potentially impacting similar laws in other states.
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Following Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s declaration of victory over Israel, Donald Trump responded with a series of statements on Truth Social. Trump claimed to have saved Khamenei from being killed, highlighting his role in preventing a large-scale Israeli attack. He also noted his prior attempts to ease sanctions on Iran, which he then reversed. Trump warned that Iran needed to re-enter the “World Order” and further stated that he would absolutely consider another strike if Iran rebuilt its uranium enrichment capabilities.
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The funeral for slain Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, was attended by former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris, with a eulogy delivered by Governor Tim Walz. Despite the attendance of prominent political figures, former President Donald Trump did not attend the service and did not issue a statement about the event. The suspected perpetrator, Vance Boelter, had a list of potential targets including the Hortmans, and was described as a supporter of Trump. While the funeral was taking place, Trump spent the morning golfing and made social media posts with divisive political rhetoric.
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Eric Trump has suggested he or another member of the Trump family could pursue the presidency after Donald Trump’s potential second term. He implied that the political path would be accessible to him or other family members, while also acknowledging the personal toll the political arena takes. Despite staying mostly away from politics, Eric expressed dissatisfaction with many politicians and confidence in his own abilities. When questioned about potential financial benefits from the presidency, Eric denied them, citing significant costs to the family.
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Minnesota mourned the loss of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman, who was laid to rest alongside her husband after a politically motivated assassination. The attack, which also targeted Democratic state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, was carried out by a man impersonating a law enforcement officer. The assailant, Vance Boelter, was apprehended after a large manhunt, and a hit list of other politicians was found in his possession. The funeral was attended by prominent political figures and served as a moment of unity as the nation grapples with increased political violence.
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Senate Republicans unveiled a 940-page bill on Friday, aiming for a Saturday vote on President Trump’s agenda, including tax cuts, increased military spending, and funds for deportations, along with cuts to Medicaid and clean energy. The bill, expected to add $4 trillion to the national debt, faces internal Republican opposition, with several senators voicing concerns over its contents and the process. Key provisions include extending tax cuts, a $5 trillion debt ceiling increase, and a controversial Medicaid provision that could jeopardize support from some Republicans. While the GOP hopes to utilize the budget reconciliation process, the bill’s passage remains uncertain, with the House and potential presidential involvement still in the picture.
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Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett criticized the Supreme Court’s decision to limit nationwide injunctions, suggesting it was a maneuver to benefit President Donald Trump. Crockett argued the ruling, which followed the court limiting the power of individual judges to issue nationwide injunctions, would hinder courts from blocking policies such as Trump’s challenge to birthright citizenship. According to Crockett, the Court is prioritizing Trump’s interests over upholding the Constitution. Despite Trump’s approval of the ruling, the details remain ambiguous enough that proposed changes to birthright citizenship could still be blocked nationwide.
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In a recent interview, Rep. Jamie Raskin discussed the Supreme Court’s current conservative alignment and its perceived efforts to accommodate Donald Trump. The conversation focused on the implications of the court’s rulings on nationwide injunctions, particularly the potential for widespread confusion if unconstitutional orders cannot be blocked on a national level. Raskin emphasized the need for these injunctions, highlighting the risk of legal chaos and the potential for lasting damage. The discussion underscored the critical role the Supreme Court plays in upholding the law and the potential consequences of its decisions.
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To fund President Trump’s budget bill, Senate Republicans proposed significantly increasing retirement contributions for federal employees, raising them to 15.6% of their salaries. This measure exempts members of Congress, their staff, and federal law enforcement from the increased contributions, as well as a 10% fee on union dues deductions. The bill is being pushed through the reconciliation process to bypass the filibuster, despite opposition within the GOP and criticism of its impact on the deficit and potential cuts to social programs. This is occurring amidst the Trump administration’s efforts to reshape the federal workforce.
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John Q. Hosedrinker