JQJO — Politics news · Page 926

Four Republican justices on the North Carolina Supreme Court attempted to disenfranchise over 5,000 voters, potentially overturning the narrow election victory of Democratic Justice Allison Riggs. This action mirrors the controversial *Bush v. Gore* case, as it selectively targets ballots from four Democratic-leaning counties, violating the principle of uniform election rules. A federal judge temporarily blocked the state from certifying the election results, pending litigation. The justices' actions are based on a claim that military and overseas voters lacked proper photo ID, even though the state's online voting portal didn't request it. This selective disenfranchisement is considered a constitutional violation.

Madison, Wisconsin's City Clerk, Maribeth Witzel-Behl, resigned amid investigations into her failure to count nearly 200 absentee ballots in the November election. The error, discovered in early January, didn't alter election results, but four affected voters filed $175,000 claims each against the city and county. This follows a September incident where her office mistakenly sent out up to 2,000 duplicate ballots. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway's office announced the resignation Monday, after an internal investigation concluded and a report is expected by the end of April. The Wisconsin Elections Commission is also investigating.

President Trump is transferring a sliver of federal land along the U.S.-Mexico border to the Department of Defense, allowing the Army to control it as part of a base. This maneuver aims to circumvent laws prohibiting the military's involvement in domestic law enforcement. The Army will detain trespassers, including migrants, and hand them over to civilian authorities. A presidential powers expert anticipates legal challenges, questioning whether the land's military purpose outweighs its border security function. A 45-day test in New Mexico will assess the plan's feasibility, involving additional fencing and warnings to deter unauthorized entry.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is in the Dominican Republic to offer condolences following a deadly nightclub collapse. First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro is temporarily serving as acting mayor. Adams' trip is significant due to NYC's large Dominican population. Mastro's appointment, which bypassed City Council approval, follows controversies surrounding his previous nomination and the mayor's recent legal battles. Mastro has already issued executive orders in Adams' absence, including one allowing federal immigration officials access to Rikers Island.

President Trump urged FCC Chairman Brendan Carr to punish CBS for airing "60 Minutes" reports he dislikes, citing alleged "unlawful and illegal behavior." This follows Trump's ongoing lawsuit against CBS, which he alleges is politically biased. While there's no evidence of illegality, the FCC's delay in approving a Paramount merger adds uncertainty. This action is another example of Trump using his appointees to pressure critics, further highlighting concerns about threats to press freedom. Trump's repeated calls for license revocation underscore his ongoing conflict with the media.

The Associated Press (AP) was barred from an Oval Office news conference, despite a court order preventing the Trump administration from punishing the AP for refusing to rename the Gulf of Mexico. The administration is appealing the court decision and argues against immediate changes. The AP contends the White House should restore their access, citing a judge's ruling against viewpoint discrimination. The dispute centers on the AP's refusal to comply with Trump's executive order to rename the Gulf. While the court prevented punishment, it didn't explicitly reinstate AP's access.

A UMass Amherst poll reveals President Trump maintains higher popularity than other Republicans, despite over half of respondents disapproving of his presidency. While 27% strongly approve of Trump's performance, 44% strongly disapprove. His approval is significantly higher among conservatives (83%) than liberals (5%). The poll also highlights concerns about Trump's disregard for traditional checks and balances and his impact on America's global standing and democracy. A majority (58%) oppose a third Trump term.

Following deadly Russian missile strikes in Sumy during Palm Sunday, pro-Ukraine Republicans are urging Donald Trump to increase pressure on Putin to achieve a ceasefire. Lawmakers like Lindsey Graham and Michael McCaul condemned the attacks, emphasizing the religious aspect to appeal to Trump's base. Despite a recent meeting between Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Putin, the attacks have fueled calls for tougher sanctions and increased skepticism towards Witkoff's perceived pro-Kremlin stance. Trump, while expressing frustration with Russia's intransigence, has yet to fully condemn the attacks, declining Zelenskyy's invitation to visit Ukraine.

Birmingham's bin strike continues after city council's latest pay offer was overwhelmingly rejected by Unite union members. The 97% rejection reflects concerns over potential pay cuts for drivers and the removal of Waste Recycling and Collection Officer roles, resulting in up to £8,000 annual losses for some workers. The council claims its offer was fair and that equivalent roles are available, while the union calls for further negotiations. The strike, causing significant waste buildup and public health concerns, has prompted intervention from neighboring councils and military planners to assist with cleanup efforts. Criticism also targets the council for promoting recycling changes amidst the ongoing disruption.

President Trump's fluctuating tariff policies continue to cause economic uncertainty. His administration's recent 135% tariff on Chinese goods, followed by exclusions for certain tech products, has created confusion and sparked market volatility. Meanwhile, China has retaliated by restricting rare earth exports. Public disapproval of Trump's trade war approach is high, despite some support for his stated goals. Experts warn against trusting Trump's handling of the situation, highlighting the need for a healthy distrust of power in democratic governance.