A bipartisan Senate effort to overturn President Trump’s new global tariffs failed in a 49-49 tie vote, with three Republicans joining Democrats in support. Despite a subsequent attempt to force another vote, this was defeated with the Vice President’s tie-breaking vote. Even if passed, the resolution lacked House support and faced a likely presidential veto. While Trump temporarily paused some tariffs, he simultaneously increased tariffs on China and administration officials offered vague assurances of ongoing trade negotiations.
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In a defiant speech at a New Hampshire Democratic dinner, Governor J.B. Pritzker urged Democrats to actively resist what he characterized as a MAGA-led assault on democracy and civil rights, advocating for direct action and electoral retribution against complicit lawmakers. He sharply criticized the cautious approach of some Democrats, arguing that prioritizing the defense of vulnerable communities—including transgender youth, people of color, and immigrants—is not a political liability but a moral imperative. Pritzker highlighted his own record of progressive policies in Illinois while condemning the scapegoating of marginalized groups and the targeting of LGBTQ+ individuals and immigrants under the Trump administration. His impassioned address contrasted sharply with recent statements by other Democratic governors, emphasizing the need for bold and unapologetic advocacy.
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A federal judge in Vermont ordered the immediate release of Mohsen Mahdawi, a Columbia University student and lawful permanent resident, who had been arrested during his citizenship interview. Mahdawi, who had been detained by federal agents for protesting Israel’s war in Gaza, successfully challenged the constitutionality of his arrest and detention, arguing it violated his First Amendment rights. His release marks a victory against the Trump administration’s targeting of student activists, though other similar cases remain pending. The government’s actions were described by his legal team as baseless and a disgrace to the U.S. Constitution.
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President Trump’s recent Cabinet meeting featured effusive praise for his first 100 days in office, with members employing hyperbolic language to laud his accomplishments. Attorney General Pam Bondi particularly distinguished herself, claiming Trump’s actions saved 258 million lives through fentanyl seizures and exceeding the achievements of all previous presidencies. However, Bondi’s statistics are demonstrably inflated, and the administration’s proposed budget cuts to a Narcan distribution program raise questions about the commitment to combating the opioid crisis. These contradictory actions highlight a disconnect between the administration’s rhetoric and actual policy.
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A new poll reveals that 25% of Trump voters regret their choice or are disappointed with his early performance in his second term, with this figure rising to 47% among moderate Trump voters and 43% of non-MAGA Trump voters. While 73% of Trump voters remain supportive, his overall approval rating stands at 44%, down from 48% in February. This decline coincides with the introduction of controversial “Liberation Day” tariffs that negatively impacted the economy. Focus groups further highlight voter regret, particularly among independents in key swing states.
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Senator Warren’s letter to Jeff Bezos questions whether his decision to halt Amazon’s plan to display tariff costs on products resulted from undisclosed promises or favors exchanged with President Trump. This action, following Trump’s complaint, raises concerns about potential corruption related to tariffs and Amazon’s cooperation with the administration. Warren criticizes Amazon for foregoing consumer transparency regarding tariff impacts and seeks clarification on the details of Bezos’ conversation with Trump, including any threats or promises made. A similar letter was sent to Apple CEO Tim Cook.
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Following President Trump’s re-election and subsequent hardline immigration policies, Venezuelan parents Yorely Bernal and Maiker Espinoza were deported to El Salvador, accused—without evidence—of gang affiliation based on their tattoos. Their two-year-old daughter, Antonella, was placed in U.S. foster care despite assurances to the contrary. The Venezuelan government has condemned the action as an abduction, while the Department of Homeland Security maintains the child’s safety is paramount and justified the separation. Antonella’s future remains uncertain.
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In a contentious ABC News interview, President Trump defended the wrongful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, insisting a photoshopped image showing “MS-13” on Garcia’s knuckles was genuine despite the correspondent’s corrections. Trump further justified his economic policies, claiming they were part of his campaign promises and necessary to prevent economic collapse, dismissing concerns from small businesses affected by tariffs. When questioned about his confidence in his defense secretary and the legality of deportations, Trump deflected responsibility to the Justice Department and dismissed critical questions as “stupid.” The interview highlighted the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the press regarding immigration and economic policies.
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During a White House interview, President Trump insisted that a photo depicting “MS-13” tattooed on the knuckles of deported Maryland man Kilmar Abrego Garcia was not photoshopped, despite ABC News correspondent Terry Moran confirming it was. Trump repeatedly claimed the tattoos clearly read “MS-13,” rejecting Moran’s explanation that the image was altered to represent the actual numerical and alphabetical tattoos. This prompted widespread ridicule on social media, with users criticizing the President’s assertion and questioning his grasp of reality. Trump previously shared the altered image on Truth Social, using it to further his political narrative.
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Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the seizure of over 22 million fentanyl-laced pills during President Trump’s first 100 days, claiming this saved 119 million lives. This assertion was widely criticized online as mathematically implausible, with commentators pointing out that this figure represents roughly one-third of the U.S. population. The significant discrepancy between the claimed number of lives saved and the actual U.S. population fueled widespread ridicule and accusations of innumeracy. Bondi’s statement sparked considerable debate and criticism regarding the accuracy and implications of the administration’s anti-drug claims.
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John Q. Hosedrinker