On Wednesday, two National Guard members were critically injured in a shooting near the White House, according to a law enforcement official. The suspect in custody was also shot and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Emergency responders transported all three victims to a hospital, as law enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service and ATF, investigated the scene. President Trump was briefed on the incident, and local officials were monitoring the situation. The shooting occurred amidst a heightened National Guard presence in the capital following an emergency order issued in August.
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As the government shutdown persists into its 39th day, senators will convene over the weekend, hoping to reach a resolution. Airline passengers continue to face disruptions, with over 1,000 flights canceled due to staffing shortages and an FAA order to reduce air traffic, impacting major airports nationwide. Additionally, the Supreme Court has temporarily blocked a court order to fully fund SNAP food aid payments, causing delays in benefits for millions of Americans. President Trump has signaled his unwillingness to compromise with Democrats regarding the Affordable Care Act tax credits, further complicating the negotiations.
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Despite President Trump’s claim of having “highest numbers,” a recent poll from The Economist and YouGov paints a different picture, revealing a mere 39% approval rating. This result is the lowest of his second term so far, with notable disapproval across various demographics, including young voters and women. The survey also indicates poor approval on specific issues like immigration, abortion, and inflation, alongside disapproval of actions such as his trade aggressions and requests for compensation from the Justice Department. Ultimately, the poll data suggests a continued decline in Trump’s public favorability since his time in office.
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During a White House press conference, President Trump, at 79 years old, sat in his chair while announcing efforts to expand IVF access, after complaining about having to stand for long periods at previous events. He noted his exhaustion from standing at a previous conference, leading him to sit while others, including RFK Jr., stood. This instance has raised further questions about his health, particularly considering his swollen ankles and the White House’s prior defense of his health, despite a recent diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency and a persistent bruise on his hand.
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On Friday, President Trump was seen with a thick layer of makeup on his hand during an appearance at a White House exhibit, raising further questions about his health. This followed previous instances of makeup use to cover bruising, despite White House statements attributing the marks to frequent handshaking and a chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis. While the White House has been forthcoming with some information, like the CVI diagnosis, it has remained evasive on other health-related matters, such as questions about the president’s doctor and treatment plans for his swollen ankles. Moreover, the President’s appearance during his speech suggested a self-consciousness toward the makeup on his hand.
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President Trump announced letters would be sent to countries, warning of tariff reinstatement if trade deals aren’t finalized. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick clarified that tariffs would take effect on August 1st, while the president sets the rates. This announcement pushes back the original July 9th deadline, with tariffs potentially ranging from 10 to 70 percent, as previously announced. Trump also threatened additional tariffs on countries aligning with BRICS, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the trade war.
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A U.S. intelligence report, based on early assessments, suggests that Iran’s nuclear program was set back only a few months by U.S. strikes, contradicting statements from President Trump. The report indicates that while the attacks on Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan caused significant damage, they did not completely obliterate the facilities. Despite the findings, the White House has rejected the assessment, with some officials claiming the facilities were destroyed. Experts suggest that Iran may have moved some enriched uranium and equipment before the strikes.
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Pope Leo XIV condemned President Trump’s bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities, stating that war is not a solution and urging international cooperation for peace. He emphasized the moral responsibility of all nations to prevent further conflict, highlighting the universal impact of violence on human dignity. This criticism follows previous condemnations of Trump and Vice President Vance’s immigration policies and Trump’s attacks on the press. The conflict marks the first major global crisis since Leo’s papacy began, continuing his pattern of advocating for diplomacy over military action.
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White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s press briefing ended abruptly after contentious questioning regarding free speech and President Trump’s response to protests. Leavitt defended the President’s stance on handling protests, claiming that the majority of demonstrations were not peaceful, citing arrests of illegal immigrants amidst larger protests in Los Angeles. Her responses to questions about the upcoming military parade and the President’s threats of “heavy force” against protesters were met with further challenges regarding the President’s commitment to the First Amendment. Leavitt ultimately concluded the briefing without addressing further questions concerning the President’s actions and statements.
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Retired Major General Randy Manner criticized President Trump’s federal deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles, arguing it undermines states’ rights and freedom of speech. He asserted that California Governor Newsom possesses sufficient law enforcement resources and the authority to handle the situation. Manner highlighted the inappropriateness of using the National Guard in this context, emphasizing that governors should manage their states’ internal affairs. This action, while currently legal, is viewed as an overreach of federal power.
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John Q. Hosedrinker