Former Arizona state legislator Austin Smith pleaded guilty to charges related to forging over 100 signatures on his reelection petitions. Smith admitted to signing a deceased person’s name and attempting to deceive the Secretary of State’s Office by filing petitions with forged signatures. The plea agreement allows Smith to potentially avoid a felony conviction, but he will face probation, a fine, and a five-year ban from public office, pending the sentencing judge’s decision. Despite initially denying the accusations, Smith resigned from his position at Turning Point Action around the time of the allegations, but may have been rehired.
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In a recent Truth Social post, former President Donald Trump claimed to have the highest poll numbers of his “political career,” though the data suggests otherwise. Multiple polls from November show Trump’s approval ratings at their lowest point during his second term, with significant negative ratings in various surveys. Trump’s claims were met with mockery by late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, who highlighted the former president’s low approval ratings during his show’s opening monologue. Trump’s economic approval, particularly regarding inflation, also remains low, despite his assertions that prices are decreasing, which are contradicted by rising grocery costs.
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In a surprising turn of events, President Trump held a remarkably cordial meeting with NYC Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, despite previously criticizing him. Trump expressed his intention to support the incoming administration, reversing earlier threats of funding cuts and potential deportations. The two leaders found common ground on issues like affordability and public safety, with Trump even agreeing with Mamdani’s views on utility costs. This unexpected alliance has raised questions about its impact on their respective supporters, particularly given Mamdani’s socialist leanings and Trump’s prior criticisms.
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Political allegiances were seemingly upended when high-profile figures, including Donald Trump and Rachel Maddow, were seen interacting with individuals from opposing political ideologies. In a surprising move, Marjorie Taylor Greene, a prominent figure in the MAGA movement, announced her resignation from the House of Representatives, much to Trump’s delight. Greene’s departure comes amidst Trump’s declining influence and a shift within the Republican party. Greene’s motivations remain unclear, but she has expressed a desire to avoid a primary battle and the associated political toxicity, possibly hinting at future political aspirations.
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As AP News reports, Jamal Khashoggi’s widow is demanding the release of the transcript of a 2019 phone call between former President Donald Trump and Mohammed bin Salman, raising questions about Trump’s potential personal benefits from his relationship with the Saudi crown prince. Democratic lawmakers, led by Rep. Eugene Vindman, are also seeking the transcript, with Vindman describing the call as “shocking.” These concerns are fueled by Trump’s dismissal of U.S. intelligence findings regarding Prince Mohammed’s involvement in Khashoggi’s 2018 murder, along with the former president’s family’s business dealings in Saudi Arabia. The situation mirrors Trump’s first impeachment, and while release is unlikely, the lawmakers emphasize that Trump’s actions reflect a concerning trend.
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A highly anticipated press conference featuring Zohran Mamdani, the New York City mayor-elect, and former President Donald Trump in Lafayette Square devolved into chaos as reporters and news crews swarmed the area in anticipation. Due to safety concerns, Mamdani’s appearance outside was canceled. However, the subsequent Oval Office meeting was remarkably cordial, with Trump praising Mamdani and dismissing prior criticisms. Despite questions designed to incite conflict, Trump even intervened on Mamdani’s behalf, creating a surprising display of camaraderie between the two.
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Recent polls reveal a decline in Donald Trump’s approval ratings across various demographics, with growing dissatisfaction over the economy. Several surveys indicate that voters are increasingly blaming Trump for the current economic climate, including rising inflation and the cost of living. Particularly concerning for the administration is the drop in approval among key swing groups such as independents, Hispanic voters, and younger Americans. As the 2026 midterm elections approach, these trends suggest potential challenges for the Republican party, as Democrats currently hold a lead in the generic congressional ballot.
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During the longest government shutdown in history, only seven percent of the approximately 11,000 air traffic controllers and technicians who maintained air safety will receive a $10,000 bonus, sparking criticism from union officials. This occurred despite the fact that many worked without pay and some were forced to take on second jobs. Despite their efforts, there were widespread flight delays and cancellations during the shutdown. Former President Trump publicly criticized air traffic controllers who took time off during the shutdown.
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President Trump has announced plans to send $2,000 tariff checks to Americans, aiming for a mid-2026 rollout. However, the proposal faces significant hurdles in Congress, as many Republicans express skepticism and prioritize addressing the national debt. Independent analyses also suggest the plan is financially unsustainable, as the projected cost far exceeds available tariff revenue, and could potentially fuel inflation. Despite the president’s determination, the checks require Congressional approval and face resistance from key figures within his own party.
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The Democrats’ video serves as an act of patriotism, signaling to government officials that some lawmakers are upholding the law and monitoring potential dangers arising from Trump’s orders. This action is especially relevant regarding the military, where Congress maintains regulatory authority. Democrats are attempting oversight in the absence of Republican cooperation, aiming to spark a necessary public debate on whether Trump’s actions constitute illegal orders. Therefore, any criticism of this intervention is misplaced, as the debate is crucial, and the Democrats intend to pursue it regardless.
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John Q. Hosedrinker