New polling data reveals President Trump’s approval rating is underwater in all key swing states—Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—despite winning them in the 2024 election. His disapproval ratings consistently exceed his approval ratings in these states, ranging from a -6 point margin in Georgia to a narrow -2 point difference in Nevada. These figures, collected since the start of Trump’s second term, suggest weakening support in crucial battleground areas, potentially impacting upcoming midterm elections and campaign strategies. While some dismiss the polls as “fake news,” the declining approval ratings are raising concerns among some political analysts.
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U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell permanently blocked President Trump’s executive order targeting Perkins Coie, deeming it an unconstitutional attack on the American legal system’s foundational principles. The order, unprecedented in its targeting of a law firm for representing clients with opposing viewpoints, imposed punitive measures including suspension of security clearances and contract terminations. Judge Howell’s ruling highlights the order as an assault on the independence of the legal profession and the right to counsel. This decision follows temporary injunctions for other firms similarly targeted, with some reportedly reaching settlements with the president.
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Albanese secured a landslide reelection victory, attributing his success to Australians’ trust in Labor amidst global uncertainty. His win follows a campaign overshadowed by the cost of living and international events, contrasting Labor’s approach with Dutton’s perceived imitation of American-style politics. Dutton conceded defeat, accepting responsibility for the Liberal Party’s poor performance. Albanese’s victory speech emphasized Australia’s unique values and its commitment to an optimistic future.
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Following a federal judge’s ruling against his use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan gang members without due process, President Trump expressed outrage. The judge, a Trump appointee, determined the act’s application was inappropriate as it requires an actual invasion, not simply a gang presence. Trump vehemently disagreed, claiming the ruling would lead to increased crime and the nation’s demise, further escalating his attacks on judges who oppose his policies. This latest outburst follows previous criticisms of judges who have blocked his deportation efforts.
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Following a productive meeting at the Vatican, Ukrainian President Zelensky described his conversation with President Trump as their most substantive to date, focusing on US sanctions and Ukrainian air defenses. The leaders discussed a potential 30-day ceasefire as a first step towards peace, with Zelensky emphasizing the need for a longer truce than that offered by Russia. This meeting, Zelensky asserted, was pivotal in securing a crucial US-Ukraine minerals deal, involving a joint investment fund potentially including military aid. Zelensky rejected Russia’s short ceasefire proposal, deeming it insufficient and a mere attempt to improve Putin’s image.
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Australia’s national election concluded, with early results indicating a potential swing toward Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s center-left Labor Party. The election, heavily influenced by cost-of-living concerns and international events including comparisons to the Trump administration, saw a tight contest between Albanese and challenger Peter Dutton’s center-right Liberal Party. Pre-election polls favored Labor, but Australia’s preferential voting system complicates predictions. The outcome will be closely analyzed for signs of a global anti-conservative trend and the impact of increased younger voter participation and social media campaigning.
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Judge Beryl Howell permanently blocked Donald Trump’s unconstitutional executive order targeting Perkins Coie, citing violations of the First, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments. The order, deemed retaliatory for Perkins Coie’s work with the Hillary Clinton campaign, unlawfully restricted the firm’s access to federal buildings and imposed burdensome disclosure requirements on government contractors. Howell’s decision, a significant victory for Perkins Coie, criticized the administration’s actions as viewpoint discrimination and unconstitutional retaliation. The Trump administration is expected to appeal.
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Eleven days after Pope Francis’ death, Donald Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself in papal attire on Truth Social. The image, depicting Trump in a mitre and crucifix, followed his earlier joking suggestion that he would like to be the next Pope. The post drew widespread criticism for its perceived disrespect towards the Catholic community, particularly given the ongoing conclave to select a new pontiff. This latest incident follows previous criticism of Trump’s behavior at Pope Francis’ funeral.
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Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez defiantly responded to White House border czar Tom Homan’s criticism of her “Know Your Rights” webinars, which inform constituents of their legal rights regarding immigration enforcement. Homan has threatened to refer Ocasio-Cortez to the Justice Department for potentially impeding deportation efforts, a claim she vehemently rejects. This follows similar accusations against Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers for issuing similar guidance to state employees. Ocasio-Cortez maintains her actions are constitutionally protected and urges constituents to utilize their rights. First Amendment advocacy groups concur that her actions are lawful.
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Following a minor impeachment effort against him, President Trump urged Republicans to expel Democrats from Congress, citing unspecified crimes, particularly around elections. This call for retribution comes amidst the President’s ongoing attempts to leverage the justice system against political opponents. Recent actions include invalidating preemptive pardons and investigations into political rivals, suggesting a pattern of retaliation. While no Democrats have been charged, the administration’s rhetoric indicates a willingness to utilize the legal system for political purposes.
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John Q. Hosedrinker