The Trump administration argues that facilitating the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, mistakenly imprisoned in El Salvador, only requires removing domestic obstacles to his return, not actively securing his release from Salvadoran authorities. This position, supported by El Salvador’s president, Nayib Bukele, is deemed by legal experts as a violation of a Supreme Court order mandating the administration’s cooperation. Experts predict this defiance will lead to a Supreme Court challenge, potentially involving the question of American citizens’ rights and the administration’s compliance with court orders. Trump’s suggestion of sending American citizens to the same prison further escalates the legal and constitutional implications.
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Nineteen-year-old Merwil Gutiérrez, a Venezuelan with no criminal record, was deported to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act despite having a pending U.S. immigration case. His deportation, along with that of hundreds of other Venezuelans, followed a pattern of unjustified arrests and deportations to a notorious prison, raising concerns about due process violations. This action, mirroring similar cases detailed in a 60 Minutes report, highlights the questionable practices of deporting individuals to countries where they lack connections, even in cases where no criminal activity is involved. The family is seeking his return, citing a lack of transparency and the violation of his legal rights.
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Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative leader, initially enjoyed a significant polling lead, fueled by his populist appeal and confrontational style. However, a dramatic shift in public opinion, largely attributed to external factors like Trump’s policies, has left the Conservatives trailing the Liberals. Despite internal criticism of the campaign’s strategy, Poilievre is attempting to refocus his message on empathy and hope, while facing challenges to overcome his negative image among some key demographics. The Conservatives are now pinning their hopes on a last-minute turnaround before the election.
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Harvard University president Alan Garber defied the Trump administration’s demands to suppress student speech and diversity initiatives, rejecting attempts to dictate the university’s academic pursuits and admissions policies. This defiance resulted in the administration freezing $2.2 billion in grants and a contract, escalating the conflict to a showdown over academic freedom. Unlike other universities that capitulated to pressure, Harvard’s stance could galvanize a unified response from academia against government overreach. This action marks a significant challenge to the administration’s suppression of free speech, reminiscent of past eras of censorship.
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A Harvard/Harris poll reveals strong support (72%) among Democratic voters for a more aggressive approach towards the Trump administration, championed by figures like Senators Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez. This aligns with the significant crowds drawn by their “Fighting Oligarchy Tour,” demonstrating widespread resonance for their pro-working class message, even in traditionally conservative states. The tour directly contrasts with the approach of Democratic leadership, who have prioritized compromise over confrontation. Ocasio-Cortez’s rising popularity, reflected in recent polling data, suggests a potential generational shift within the Democratic Party.
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Three months into his second term, President Trump’s approval rating stands at 44%, with 51% disapproving, largely due to negative economic assessments. His administration, heavily influenced by Elon Musk, faces widespread public distrust; Musk’s favorability rating is notably low, even below that of federal employees. Concerns about weakening democracy and the influence of oligarchy are also prevalent. Ultimately, Trump and Musk’s joint performance has failed to meet public expectations, potentially jeopardizing both their political standing.
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Federal Judge Paula Xinis sharply criticized the Trump administration for its handling of Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s deportation, accusing them of ignoring court orders and obstructing justice. The administration defiantly claimed that even if returned, Abrego Garcia would be immediately re-deported due to alleged MS-13 ties, despite accusations of misinterpreting court orders to “facilitate” his return. Judge Xinis rejected the administration’s arguments, ordering two weeks of intensive discovery and emphasizing the urgency of Abrego Garcia’s situation, highlighting the daily harm to him and his family. The judge’s rebuke follows the Supreme Court’s upholding of her previous order mandating the administration facilitate Abrego Garcia’s release from a Salvadoran prison. The administration’s actions have been met with outrage from Abrego Garcia’s wife and widespread protest.
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A new poll reveals that 58% of Americans oppose President Trump’s tariffs, with a majority (53%) wanting Congress to intervene. Bipartisan support exists for a bill granting Congress a two-month review period for new tariffs, though its passage remains uncertain due to potential filibusters and a threatened presidential veto. Legal challenges are also underway, arguing that the President’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to justify tariffs is unlawful. The poll further indicates widespread public disapproval of Trump’s broader economic policies, with majorities believing they are increasing grocery prices and harming the stock market.
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Regarding Canada-U.S. relations and auto tariffs, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed President Trump’s unchanging stance. This position asserts that the U.S. disproportionately funds Canada’s defense. Leavitt reiterated Trump’s belief that Canadian citizens would significantly benefit from U.S. statehood. The statement comes in response to questions about ongoing trade tensions and the overall relationship between the two nations.
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The Supreme Court ordered the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran migrant illegally deported despite a withholding order, but the Trump administration refused, citing El Salvador’s jurisdiction. This defiance followed a lower court order and constitutes a blatant disregard for judicial authority. The administration’s actions, including barring AP reporters from the Oval Office, demonstrate a pattern of ignoring court orders. This situation highlights the president’s disregard for the law and raises serious concerns about the rule of law within the United States.
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John Q. Hosedrinker