A right-wing news outlet recently “unmasked” a protester named Seth Todd, who has been demonstrating against the Trump administration’s actions in Portland, Oregon while wearing a frog costume. Todd explained that his motivations stem from a desire to protect his community from inhumane treatment and to challenge the administration’s narrative of Portland being “war-ravaged.” Other Portland residents have also employed costumes to confront ICE agents, and another demonstrator believes that using humor and absurdity undermines the administration’s fear-mongering tactics. Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, federal agents have used force, including pepper spray, against the demonstrators.
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The government shutdown has reached day 11, prompting the White House to issue layoff notices to over 4,000 federal employees. The Trump administration has indicated that these layoffs are only the beginning, with more expected in the coming days. Furthermore, the President has stated the administration strategically targeted employees favored by the Democrats for these initial cuts. This action comes amidst the ongoing budget impasse that triggered the shutdown.
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The scoop is out: the Trump administration is warning about dwindling funds for food stamps if the government shutdown continues. It’s a stark message, and it’s sending a shiver down the spines of many, especially those who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. This news isn’t just a headline; it represents a potential crisis, a real-world consequence of political gridlock.
This situation brings up some serious questions about priorities. There’s a definite feeling that something’s off when funds for programs that feed families are in jeopardy, while other areas of spending, like perhaps military budgets or even certain government events, seem to be unaffected.… Continue reading
AP News reports that the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) received a $300 million infusion from the Trump administration this week, mitigating potential funding issues during the government shutdown. This program, which supports over 6 million low-income mothers and children, was at risk of running out of money due to the shutdown. The administration utilized unspent tariff revenues to keep WIC operational, allowing states like Alaska and Washington to continue funding their programs. Critics have pointed out that both the White House and House Republicans have previously sought to cut the program.
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Miller’s use of the first person in describing his actions within the administration raises concerns about his authority and influence, especially given his unelected position. Social media users have expressed alarm, pointing out that Miller appears to be making decisions regarding the deployment of federal agencies and National Guard units. Furthermore, the author criticizes Miller’s portrayal of potential scenarios involving military action in Southern towns, suggesting that such actions would likely be met with resistance.
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The Trump administration has intervened in Argentina’s financial struggles by purchasing Argentinian pesos and establishing a $20 billion currency swap framework with the country’s central bank. This deal, announced by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, aims to stabilize Argentina’s finances amidst market turbulence and a plummeting peso. However, the move has drawn criticism from US farmers and Democratic lawmakers, who view it as a bailout benefiting Argentina, particularly given its relationship with China and President Milei’s ties to Trump. This financial support provides temporary relief as Argentina prepares for crucial midterm elections.
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MIT became the first university to reject the Trump administration’s “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education” after its president, Sally Kornbluth, stated the school already meets many of the federal government’s standards. The compact, sent to nine universities, tied access to federal funds to conditions such as limiting international student enrollment and restricting tuition rates. Kornbluth expressed concern that the compact’s provisions would restrict academic freedom and that scientific funding should be based on merit. Other universities, including Brown and Dartmouth, are still considering their responses.
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During a recent interview, Stephen Miller alluded to the possibility of the Trump administration ignoring a federal judge’s order, hinting at the president’s supposed “plenary authority” under Title 10 of the US Code, a claim swiftly removed from the aired broadcast. The author disputes Miller’s assertion, emphasizing that plenary power, which Miller seemed to be suggesting, is synonymous with absolute and unchecked power, and such authority is not granted to the President under US law. Miller’s rhetoric, as exemplified in a speech, frames those opposed to the administration as enemies, setting the stage for a potential conflict. The piece concludes with a warning that Miller, as a key figure and ideologue, may pose a greater threat to democracy than Trump himself.
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In Chicago, a federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order against the Trump administration, prohibiting the use of force against journalists covering anti-ICE protests. The order stems from a lawsuit filed by local journalists who accused federal agents of using tear gas and other weapons against them. The judge’s ruling prevents agents from dispersing, arresting, or threatening journalists, unless there is probable cause of a crime. While authorities can order journalists to move, they must provide ample time and opportunity for them to report and observe. The order will remain in effect for two weeks as the legal proceedings continue.
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According to two U.S. officials, the Trump administration has yet to provide lawmakers with concrete evidence proving that vessels targeted in fatal military strikes were carrying narcotics, despite claiming they were drug-smuggling boats. The administration has released unclassified videos of the strikes but has not provided further evidence. This has led to mounting bipartisan frustration and questions regarding the legal justifications for the strikes. A small group of administration officials, including Marco Rubio, are reportedly driving the push to carry out strikes against drug cartels, bypassing traditional interagency processes.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood