JQJO — Politics news · Page 875

Elon Musk's popularity has plummeted, with only 33% of U.S. adults viewing him favorably, down from 41% in December. A new AP-NORC poll reveals that two-thirds believe he holds excessive influence over the federal government, where he's spearheaded the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). While Republicans largely support his efforts to downsize the government, Democrats and independents express significant concern. Musk's departure from his administration role is imminent, as he plans to focus on Tesla. His political views have shifted rightward, contributing to the polarization of opinions surrounding his work.

Photos of Donald Trump appearing to sleep during Pope Francis' funeral went viral, sparking widespread online criticism. Trump, attending with Melania and Zelenskyy, was seated in the front row. Many users deemed his actions and choice of a blue suit, instead of black, disrespectful. The incident generated considerable mockery and debate online, contrasting his behavior with the solemnity of the event. Trump earlier posted photos of himself paying respects to the Pope and met with Zelenskyy.

Learning Resources CEO Rick Woldenberg is facing high tariffs on imported goods from China. He's choosing to pay some tariffs while forgoing some inventory, and is also joining lawsuits challenging President Trump's authority to impose them. The lawsuits allege the President is bypassing Congress to tax imports at will. This is part of a wider global trade war, with numerous businesses and organizations filing legal challenges against the tariffs.

The 2025 White House Correspondents' Dinner was a low-key affair, lacking the usual presidential attendance and Hollywood A-listers. WHCA President Eugene Daniels used his speech to emphasize the importance of a free press and defend journalists against attacks, referencing the challenges faced by the Associated Press and the incarceration of Evan Gershkovich. While acknowledging declining public trust in the media, Daniels stressed that journalists are not the opposition or the enemy. The event highlighted the strained relationship between the current White House administration and the media.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas appointed Hussein al-Sheikh as the new vice president of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), a significant step towards succession. Al-Sheikh, a long-time aide with strong ties to Israel and Arab allies, is now the frontrunner to succeed Abbas. However, his appointment is unlikely to improve Fatah's unpopularity. The PLO's executive committee will choose Abbas's successor if he dies or becomes incapacitated, with al-Sheikh likely to assume the role temporarily before permanent elections. The appointment comes amid ongoing conflict with Hamas and pressure to address Palestinian Authority reforms.

Following Pope Francis' funeral in Rome, UK Labour leader Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met and discussed the positive progress made towards a peace deal in Ukraine. They agreed to maintain momentum and continue working with international partners. The meeting, lasting around 35 minutes, included one-on-one talks and discussions with their respective delegations. Zelensky also met with US President Trump, describing the meeting as "good" and "symbolic."

A federal judge in Texas has blocked Donald Trump's use of a 200-year-old law to deport undocumented immigrants. Judge David Briones halted deportations under the Alien Enemies Act in West Texas, ordering the release of a Venezuelan couple accused of gang affiliation. This ruling follows similar court decisions in other states, challenging Trump's use of wartime powers for peacetime deportations. Trump previously defied a similar court order, leading to a potential contempt of court charge.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal, owned by a major Trump donor, condemned President Trump's pardon of former councilwoman Michele Fiore. Fiore was convicted of misusing over $70,000 in donations intended for a police officer's statue, spending it on personal expenses. The newspaper's editorial criticized the pardon as a 'debasement of presidential pardon power,' suggesting political motivations influenced the decision. This follows Trump's earlier controversial pardons of January 6th Capitol rioters.

Washington state lawmakers approved a new $3.2 billion transportation spending plan over six years, funded by increased gas taxes (6 cents initially, rising 2% annually), sales tax adjustments, and higher car tab fees. The plan prioritizes completing major highway projects like Highway 520 and I-5 bridge construction, while delaying others due to economic uncertainty. Ferry improvements are included, but full costs remain unclear. Though increasing safety funding and addressing culvert issues, the plan falls short of ideal road maintenance needs.

During a papal visit to Azerbaijan, a gust of wind blew Pope Francis' zucchetta off his head. The moment was tense as the Pope considered whether to retrieve it, potentially disrupting the official procession with President Aliyev. The author highlights this as an example of a situation requiring perfect manners, showcasing a seemingly impossible social predicament.