JQJO — Politics news · Page 821

Stephen Miller, a top Trump advisor, stated the administration is exploring ways to end due process for unauthorized immigrants, citing the Constitution's allowance for habeas corpus suspension during invasion. Miller claims courts are obstructing deportation efforts. President Trump, echoing this sentiment, expressed frustration with the courts' delays, despite the Supreme Court affirming due process rights for non-citizens. Trump previously declared an invasion, invoking the Alien Enemies Act, a claim contested by federal judges. The Supreme Court recently ruled that those facing deportation are entitled to due process, highlighting the ongoing legal battle over immigration policy.

President Trump's proposal to increase taxes on the wealthiest Americans is facing significant Republican opposition. While Trump initially suggested raising the top tax rate from 37% to 39.6% for earners over $2.5 million, key figures like Grover Norquist and Senate Majority Leader John Thune voiced strong objections. Despite Trump's claim that it's 'good politics', Republicans cite economic concerns and a lack of party support. The conflicting signals from the White House and the tight deadline for passing the tax-and-spending bill add to the internal GOP struggle.

President Trump fired Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden, the first woman and African American to hold the post, citing concerns about her pursuit of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and selection of children's books. The firing is part of a broader reshaping of US cultural institutions under Trump, including changes at the National Endowment for the Arts, where several senior staff resigned, and the Kennedy Center, where Trump installed a new president and faced artist boycotts. Democratic lawmakers criticized Hayden's dismissal.

Retired Supreme Court Justice David Souter, a New Hampshire Republican who became known for his liberal rulings, passed away at 85. Appointed by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, Souter's decisions often sided with liberal viewpoints on issues like abortion and freedom of speech. He retired in 2009, leaving a legacy marked by his intellectual rigor and quiet demeanor. Chief Justice John Roberts lauded Souter's distinguished service and uncommon wisdom. Souter's unexpected liberal leanings surprised conservatives, but he consistently demonstrated an independent judicial philosophy.

President Trump abruptly fired all three Democratic commissioners from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) via email. The firings, which occurred overnight, followed the commissioners' refusal to cooperate with Trump's informal "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE). The dismissals have sparked outrage among Democrats and consumer protection groups, who accuse Trump of attempting to dismantle the CPSC. At least one commissioner has vowed legal action, citing the illegality of the firings. The White House defended the action, stating the President has the authority to remove executive branch employees.

FEMA's acting director, David Richardson, warned staff against resisting President Trump's agenda, threatening to override dissent. Richardson replaced Cameron Hamilton, who was removed after testifying against dismantling FEMA before Congress. Trump aims to decentralize FEMA's functions to individual states, a move criticized for potentially hindering disaster response and already resulting in staff reductions and rejected aid requests from states like Arkansas. Richardson's assertive leadership signals a stricter approach within the agency.

Jared Kushner, former Middle East negotiator for President Trump, is informally advising the current administration on its upcoming Middle East trip. The trip aims to secure economic agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, and potentially expand the Abraham Accords. While Kushner's involvement isn't officially acknowledged, sources say he's crucial due to his relationships with Arab leaders. Despite challenges like the recent Gaza conflict and Saudi Arabia's conditions for normalization with Israel, the administration hopes to make progress toward these goals. Kushner's role is complicated by his post-White House business interests in the region.

A federal court ruled that Alabama's congressional redistricting map intentionally discriminated against Black voters, violating the Voting Rights Act. The three-judge panel, including two Trump appointees, stated the map diluted Black voting strength and that the state's response was a deliberate attempt to evade court orders. The court ordered a new map, resulting in two Black representatives in Congress. Plaintiffs also seek to reinstate federal preclearance for Alabama's future redistricting plans. Alabama officials are reviewing the ruling and considering their options.

Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, has faced criticism for social media posts perceived as anti-Trump and anti-JD Vance. These posts, shared on an X account possibly managed by the Pope, criticized Vance's views and the Trump administration's immigration policies. The posts included a rebuke of Vance's stance on loving others and questioning the Trump administration's response to suffering migrants. While some celebrate the first American Pope's election, associating it with President Trump, the Pope's apparent political leanings have sparked controversy, with figures like Laura Loomer labeling him 'anti-MAGA' and 'Marxist'. The authenticity of the Pope's direct involvement in the controversial posts remains unconfirmed.

Trump's administration is initiating trade talks with China this weekend in Geneva. Trump, via Truth Social, proposed lowering US tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 80% in exchange for increased Chinese imports. While aiming for de-escalation, officials temper expectations of an immediate deal, noting the process could take years. The current trade war has already caused significant economic damage, including a recent US GDP contraction and rising inflation. Despite Trump's suggestion, the White House clarified that no tariff changes will occur before the talks conclude.