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Letters from an American

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Heather Cox Richardson's narrated newsletter about the history behind today's politics.

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Heather Cox Richardson's narrated newsletter about the history behind today's politics.

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Published 2026-05-18

Americans’ Civic Identity

10 min
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May 17, 2026

Trump administration organizes a taxpayer funded evangelical worship event in Washington DC, Administration seeks to use the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence to promote its ideology, Trump loyalists have taken over planning for the nation’s birthday celebration from Congress, Trump’s Freedom 250 project showcases Trump more than the nation’s history, In a false reading of history, speakers at the event assured the crowd that the US was founded as a Christian nation, The founders were clear that government should be separate from religion, MAGA politics requires obedience rather than self-government, But questioning and debating is essential for advancing the nation’s core political values, A belief in the principles of democracy, and a commitment to America’s civic identity unifies the nation and is the story of America. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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May 17, 2026

Trump administration organizes a taxpayer funded evangelical worship event in Washington DC, Administration seeks to use the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence to promote its ideology, Trump loyalists have taken over planning for the nation’s birthday celebration from Congress, Trump’s Freedom 250 project showcases Trump more than the nation’s history, In a false reading of history, speakers at the event assured the crowd that the US was founded as a Christian nation, The founders were clear that government should be separate from religion, MAGA politics requires obedience rather than self-government, But questioning and debating is essential for advancing the nation’s core political values, A belief in the principles of democracy, and a commitment to America’s civic identity unifies the nation and is the story of America. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-05-17

Awakening a Sleeping Giant

10 min
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May 16, 2026

May 17th is the anniversary of the Brown v Board of Education decision declaring racial segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional, Three years later, President Eisenhower proposed the Civil Rights Act of 1957, Senate Majority Leader Lyndon Johnson wrestled the Act through Congress, But efforts to expand voter registration for Black Americans were stymied, even after the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, On March 7. 1965 after the shooting of Jimmie Lee Jackson, marchers set out from Selma AL to the state capital at Montgomery to draw attention to the struggle, they were stopped by the government. The march was started again, and this time 25,000 people completed their trip, The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was signed on August 6, 1965, Yet the basic rights protected by the Act were gutted on April 29, 2026 by the Supreme Court, Thousands, including 18 members of Congress, traveled to Selma and Montgomery today, to call for action to protect voting rights, Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez told an audience that those trying to gerrymander their way into controlling Congress have awakened a sleeping giant, as people come together knowing what it means to the country to protect the vote.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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May 16, 2026

May 17th is the anniversary of the Brown v Board of Education decision declaring racial segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional, Three years later, President Eisenhower proposed the Civil Rights Act of 1957, Senate Majority Leader Lyndon Johnson wrestled the Act through Congress, But efforts to expand voter registration for Black Americans were stymied, even after the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, On March 7. 1965 after the shooting of Jimmie Lee Jackson, marchers set out from Selma AL to the state capital at Montgomery to draw attention to the struggle, they were stopped by the government. The march was started again, and this time 25,000 people completed their trip, The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was signed on August 6, 1965, Yet the basic rights protected by the Act were gutted on April 29, 2026 by the Supreme Court, Thousands, including 18 members of Congress, traveled to Selma and Montgomery today, to call for action to protect voting rights, Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez told an audience that those trying to gerrymander their way into controlling Congress have awakened a sleeping giant, as people come together knowing what it means to the country to protect the vote.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-05-16

Trump's China Trip

12 min
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Xi Jinping appears to have gotten what he wanted from the meeting with Trump, Trump’s actions make it appear China and the US are peers. Xi signals he sees US as a declining power, Trump appears to miss the context of their meeting, Trump misses the point that America’s strength was always about its alliances, Trump posts about the WH ballroom, Hegseth reverses plan to send troops to Poland, Chairs of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees are angry about changing plans and the administration’s failure to involve them, Corruption in Trump family finances continuew unabated.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Xi Jinping appears to have gotten what he wanted from the meeting with Trump, Trump’s actions make it appear China and the US are peers. Xi signals he sees US as a declining power, Trump appears to miss the context of their meeting, Trump misses the point that America’s strength was always about its alliances, Trump posts about the WH ballroom, Hegseth reverses plan to send troops to Poland, Chairs of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees are angry about changing plans and the administration’s failure to involve them, Corruption in Trump family finances continuew unabated.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Vance visits Maine and claims the Trump administration is combating endemic fraud in our public services. States that don't comply with federal rules will have funds cut. Admin will withhold $1.3 billion in Medicaid payments from California. Admin and Republicans blaming political opponents for their own fraud and corruption. Admin seems nervous after seeing Orban dumped. Trump’s administration labeled the most corrupt in history. Trump fired or demoted 20 inspectors-general, pocketed $4B from crypto, freed/pardoned cronies for money. Trump's sons and son-in-law are using their political connections to build private wealth. Trump uses his Birthday UFC White House fight to funnel more money to supporters. Trump visits China with delegation of billionaires. Trump's lawsuit with the IRS.

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Vance visits Maine and claims the Trump administration is combating endemic fraud in our public services. States that don't comply with federal rules will have funds cut. Admin will withhold $1.3 billion in Medicaid payments from California. Admin and Republicans blaming political opponents for their own fraud and corruption. Admin seems nervous after seeing Orban dumped. Trump’s administration labeled the most corrupt in history. Trump fired or demoted 20 inspectors-general, pocketed $4B from crypto, freed/pardoned cronies for money. Trump's sons and son-in-law are using their political connections to build private wealth. Trump uses his Birthday UFC White House fight to funnel more money to supporters. Trump visits China with delegation of billionaires. Trump's lawsuit with the IRS.

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Published 2026-05-14

A One-Party South

18 min
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Two weeks ago, SCOTUS gutted the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These first two weeks have resulted in one-party rule in the South, depriving millions of Black voters from fair representation, as Republicans gerrymander without restraint. We've seen a One-party state South before. After the Civil War, reactionary white southerners use state laws, intimidation, harassment, and violence to prevent Black people from voting. By 1880, the South was solidly Democratic, which it would remain until the 1960s. Wilmington Coup.

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Two weeks ago, SCOTUS gutted the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These first two weeks have resulted in one-party rule in the South, depriving millions of Black voters from fair representation, as Republicans gerrymander without restraint. We've seen a One-party state South before. After the Civil War, reactionary white southerners use state laws, intimidation, harassment, and violence to prevent Black people from voting. By 1880, the South was solidly Democratic, which it would remain until the 1960s. Wilmington Coup.

Get full, free access to Letters from an American here: https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/subscribe

You can also find me: 

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Published 2026-05-13

The Price of Non-Prosecution

10 min
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Trump’s behavior on social media gets even more unhinged; he continues to target his political opponents with late night posts which fabricate quotes and use AI. Trump calls news coverage of Iranian military victories "virtual TREASON." Trump leaves for China. No progress on opening Strait of Hormuz. Trump continues to use Iran's nuclear capacity as justification for the war, but his own intelligence agencies assessed Iran was not building a nuclear weapon. DOJ wants to settle $10B lawsuit from Trump. Epstein victim during hearing cites Bondi by name re obstruction. Experts- can’t change name of war, reset clock.

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Trump’s behavior on social media gets even more unhinged; he continues to target his political opponents with late night posts which fabricate quotes and use AI. Trump calls news coverage of Iranian military victories "virtual TREASON." Trump leaves for China. No progress on opening Strait of Hormuz. Trump continues to use Iran's nuclear capacity as justification for the war, but his own intelligence agencies assessed Iran was not building a nuclear weapon. DOJ wants to settle $10B lawsuit from Trump. Epstein victim during hearing cites Bondi by name re obstruction. Experts- can’t change name of war, reset clock.

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Published 2026-05-12

Made in the U.S.A.*

15 min
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In 2025, Donald Jr. and Eric Trump launched "Trump Mobile," a smartphone designed and built entirely in America. Costumers could pre-order the phone by putting down a $100 deposit for the $499 phone. Since, the product dropped its "American made" promise, the phone did not ship on schedule, and the terms have redefined the $100 deposits as a "conditional opportunity if Trump Mobile later elects, in its sole discretion, to offer the Device for sale.” The company wants to use T-Mobile's network which is subject to federal government regulations, a conflict of interest. Trump complains that the Supreme Court is not loyal to him over tariffs. Trump posts AI images about the Iran war and his political rivals. Tension between Trump and Netanyahu.

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In 2025, Donald Jr. and Eric Trump launched "Trump Mobile," a smartphone designed and built entirely in America. Costumers could pre-order the phone by putting down a $100 deposit for the $499 phone. Since, the product dropped its "American made" promise, the phone did not ship on schedule, and the terms have redefined the $100 deposits as a "conditional opportunity if Trump Mobile later elects, in its sole discretion, to offer the Device for sale.” The company wants to use T-Mobile's network which is subject to federal government regulations, a conflict of interest. Trump complains that the Supreme Court is not loyal to him over tariffs. Trump posts AI images about the Iran war and his political rivals. Tension between Trump and Netanyahu.

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Published 2026-05-11

Two Celebrations

12 min
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Russia celebrates Victory Day, the anniversary of its victory over the Nazis. Putin co-opts the holiday to showboat the country's military and boost morale and support for the Ukraine War. Putin has not achieved any of his initial goals in the Ukraine War. Putin fearmongers against NATO. A big celebration in Hungary but for another reason. Péter Magyar takes the oath of office as prime minister after winning a landslide victory over Putin ally Viktor Orbán, ending Orbán campaign against "liberal democracy."

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Russia celebrates Victory Day, the anniversary of its victory over the Nazis. Putin co-opts the holiday to showboat the country's military and boost morale and support for the Ukraine War. Putin has not achieved any of his initial goals in the Ukraine War. Putin fearmongers against NATO. A big celebration in Hungary but for another reason. Péter Magyar takes the oath of office as prime minister after winning a landslide victory over Putin ally Viktor Orbán, ending Orbán campaign against "liberal democracy."

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Published 2026-05-10

Mothers' Day

8 min
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The original Mothers’ Day originated with Julia Ward Howe reacting in the 1870’s to the horror of modern war. Women needed to seize political power from the men who allowed this scale of carnage. Throughout the Civil War, women had played a significant role in the war effort, and they expected their agency and participatory enfranchisement to continue in the post-war years. 14th Amendment did not give women the right to vote. Women suffrage movements are formed in America in 1869. Julia Ward Howe wrote, “Appeal to Womanhood Throughout the World,” and she organized international peace conferences.

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The original Mothers’ Day originated with Julia Ward Howe reacting in the 1870’s to the horror of modern war. Women needed to seize political power from the men who allowed this scale of carnage. Throughout the Civil War, women had played a significant role in the war effort, and they expected their agency and participatory enfranchisement to continue in the post-war years. 14th Amendment did not give women the right to vote. Women suffrage movements are formed in America in 1869. Julia Ward Howe wrote, “Appeal to Womanhood Throughout the World,” and she organized international peace conferences.

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Published 2026-05-10

Look, Ma. A U.F.O!

11 min
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Trump & UFO stories. Meanwhile: Transportation Secretary misses months recording TV show, no bid contract for reflecting pool, real cost of war huge, FEMA only pays Republican states and ignores Democrat states, Trump ends air pollution restrictions, VA court overrides will of voters.

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Trump & UFO stories. Meanwhile: Transportation Secretary misses months recording TV show, no bid contract for reflecting pool, real cost of war huge, FEMA only pays Republican states and ignores Democrat states, Trump ends air pollution restrictions, VA court overrides will of voters.

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Published 2026-05-08

Gerrymandering Arms Race

13 min
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Tennessee divides its majority-Black 9th Congressional District into three districts that extend into white suburbs, turning all its districts into Republican seats. The NAACP has sued Tennessee to block the redistricting. Other Republican dominated states are rushing to redraw their own districts after the Supreme Court's Louisiana v. Callais decision. The CIA releases a report that contends the Trump administration is inflating its military successes and impact in Iran. The US says its exchange of fire with Iran in the Hormuz Strait does not violate the ceasefire. Tom Homan claims there are 20 million undocumented immigrants in the country, and the majority of Americans think the Trump administration is cracking down to hard on immigration. Trump continues to attack the Pope. Secretary Rubio visits the Vatican, and the Pope gives him a pen made out of the symbol of peace: olive wood.

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Tennessee divides its majority-Black 9th Congressional District into three districts that extend into white suburbs, turning all its districts into Republican seats. The NAACP has sued Tennessee to block the redistricting. Other Republican dominated states are rushing to redraw their own districts after the Supreme Court's Louisiana v. Callais decision. The CIA releases a report that contends the Trump administration is inflating its military successes and impact in Iran. The US says its exchange of fire with Iran in the Hormuz Strait does not violate the ceasefire. Tom Homan claims there are 20 million undocumented immigrants in the country, and the majority of Americans think the Trump administration is cracking down to hard on immigration. Trump continues to attack the Pope. Secretary Rubio visits the Vatican, and the Pope gives him a pen made out of the symbol of peace: olive wood.

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Published 2026-05-08

Hidden Costs

13 min
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Government restricts satellite imagery from the press, to hide the extent of damage Iran did to our bases in war. More insider trading surrounds latest Trump announcement re war. Patel drinking and giving Ka$h Patel labeled bourbon bottles as swag.

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Government restricts satellite imagery from the press, to hide the extent of damage Iran did to our bases in war. More insider trading surrounds latest Trump announcement re war. Patel drinking and giving Ka$h Patel labeled bourbon bottles as swag.

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Published 2026-05-06

A Ballroom Bait and Switch

9 min
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After Trump promised his White House Ballroom would be funded entirely by himself and "friends," Republicans are appropriating $1 billion in taxpayer money for the White House addition. This tactic reveals President Reagan's own bait and switch when his tax cuts did not provide the economic prosperity that he promised would have sustained social programs. 1/5 of people covered by ACA are dropping coverage as Republicans cancelled subsidies. 4.3 million people off SNAP. Project Freedom cancelled after a day. Republicans are allocating $72 billion for ICE and Customs and Border Protection. Tom Homan promises that many more deportations are coming. Trump backs down from Project Freedom.

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After Trump promised his White House Ballroom would be funded entirely by himself and "friends," Republicans are appropriating $1 billion in taxpayer money for the White House addition. This tactic reveals President Reagan's own bait and switch when his tax cuts did not provide the economic prosperity that he promised would have sustained social programs. 1/5 of people covered by ACA are dropping coverage as Republicans cancelled subsidies. 4.3 million people off SNAP. Project Freedom cancelled after a day. Republicans are allocating $72 billion for ICE and Customs and Border Protection. Tom Homan promises that many more deportations are coming. Trump backs down from Project Freedom.

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Published 2026-05-04

Gilding the Capital

14 min
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May 3, 2026

"86 47" graffiti in the Reflecting Pool sends Trump into a late night posting frenzy, many of them AI generated images. Trump pushes expensive "beautification" projects in D.C. to control his legacy. These projects include painting the reflecting pool blue and building The National Garden of American Heroes. Trump announces the launch of "Project Freedom, an effort to escort stranded merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump gets offended by critical comments from European leaders on the Iranian war and threatens to pull U.S. troops from Spain and Italy. Election Fearmongering.

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May 3, 2026

"86 47" graffiti in the Reflecting Pool sends Trump into a late night posting frenzy, many of them AI generated images. Trump pushes expensive "beautification" projects in D.C. to control his legacy. These projects include painting the reflecting pool blue and building The National Garden of American Heroes. Trump announces the launch of "Project Freedom, an effort to escort stranded merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump gets offended by critical comments from European leaders on the Iranian war and threatens to pull U.S. troops from Spain and Italy. Election Fearmongering.

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Published 2026-05-03

Ten Great American Horses

9 min
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May 2, 2026

Running of the Kentucky Derby, American Horses: Traveller, Comanche, Beautiful Jim Key, Man o’ War, Trigger, Sergeant Reckless, Mr. Ed, Black Jack, Khartoum, Secretariat.

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May 2, 2026

Running of the Kentucky Derby, American Horses: Traveller, Comanche, Beautiful Jim Key, Man o’ War, Trigger, Sergeant Reckless, Mr. Ed, Black Jack, Khartoum, Secretariat.

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Published 2026-05-02

Will We Choose the Rule of Law?

9 min
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May 1, 2026

Today is the deadline for Trump to ask Congress for approval of the Iran War, Trump claims that the hostilities terminated on April 7, but the blockade, which is an act of war, continues, The Administration is trying to get around the War Powers Act, The Framers of the Constitution placed the power to declare war in the hands of Congress, not the president, Today is Law Day, established by President Eisenhower, to remind us to guard the rule of law. 

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May 1, 2026

Today is the deadline for Trump to ask Congress for approval of the Iran War, Trump claims that the hostilities terminated on April 7, but the blockade, which is an act of war, continues, The Administration is trying to get around the War Powers Act, The Framers of the Constitution placed the power to declare war in the hands of Congress, not the president, Today is Law Day, established by President Eisenhower, to remind us to guard the rule of law. 

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Published 2026-05-01

A New Low

13 min
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April 30, 2026

Trump’s approval rating hits a new low for overall job performance and for handling the economy, Gas prices continue to rise, Iran seems unlikely to open the Strait of Hormuz, Pete Hegseth testifies in front of House and Senate Armed Services Committees, On May 1, under the War Powers Act, Trump must either end the Iran war or get congressional approval, Corruption widens as does incompetence, Florida summarily approves a gerrymandered map, Supreme Court decision in Louisiana v Callais opens door to undercut access to the vote, Louisiana’s governor declares a state of emergency, suspending the primary elections, Other states are considering redistricting in the wake of the Callais decision, Trump worries about the upcoming election.

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April 30, 2026

Trump’s approval rating hits a new low for overall job performance and for handling the economy, Gas prices continue to rise, Iran seems unlikely to open the Strait of Hormuz, Pete Hegseth testifies in front of House and Senate Armed Services Committees, On May 1, under the War Powers Act, Trump must either end the Iran war or get congressional approval, Corruption widens as does incompetence, Florida summarily approves a gerrymandered map, Supreme Court decision in Louisiana v Callais opens door to undercut access to the vote, Louisiana’s governor declares a state of emergency, suspending the primary elections, Other states are considering redistricting in the wake of the Callais decision, Trump worries about the upcoming election.

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Published 2026-04-30

Two Speeches

13 min
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April 29, 2026

Trump and King Charles give very different speeches in Washington DC, Trump’s speech portrays the US as no longer a nation based on Enlightenment principles, Trump suggests that the Atlantic Charter was an affirmation of a shared gene pool between the US and the UK, In his speech to a joint session of Congress,  King Charles describes the US as having been founded on the revolutionary idea of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, King Charles aligned these ideas with the ideals of English Common Law and the Magna Carta, He also calls for resolve to help the people of Ukraine fight off the Russians, King Charles urges the US to join the UK in rededicating themselves to service of their people and the peoples of the world. Trump seems to miss the point of King Charles’s speech.

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April 29, 2026

Trump and King Charles give very different speeches in Washington DC, Trump’s speech portrays the US as no longer a nation based on Enlightenment principles, Trump suggests that the Atlantic Charter was an affirmation of a shared gene pool between the US and the UK, In his speech to a joint session of Congress,  King Charles describes the US as having been founded on the revolutionary idea of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, King Charles aligned these ideas with the ideals of English Common Law and the Magna Carta, He also calls for resolve to help the people of Ukraine fight off the Russians, King Charles urges the US to join the UK in rededicating themselves to service of their people and the peoples of the world. Trump seems to miss the point of King Charles’s speech.

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Published 2026-04-29

Questionable Claims

14 min
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April 28, 2026

Administration tries to blame Democrats for incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Trump continues to claim the incident proves need for his proposed White House ballroom, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche files motion to dissolve the court's preliminary injunction stopping the ballroom construction, Trump desperately needs a win, Stalemate in Iran continues, Gas prices are at their highest level in four years, Reports suggest that the US military post in Kuwait where six service members died was unprotected, House measures are bottled up, reports suggest Mike Johnson is losing control, Trump is ramping up attacks, going after Jimmy Kimmel and James Comey. 

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April 28, 2026

Administration tries to blame Democrats for incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Trump continues to claim the incident proves need for his proposed White House ballroom, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche files motion to dissolve the court's preliminary injunction stopping the ballroom construction, Trump desperately needs a win, Stalemate in Iran continues, Gas prices are at their highest level in four years, Reports suggest that the US military post in Kuwait where six service members died was unprotected, House measures are bottled up, reports suggest Mike Johnson is losing control, Trump is ramping up attacks, going after Jimmy Kimmel and James Comey. 

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Published 2026-04-27

The Ballroom Distraction

9 min Transcript
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April 26, 2026

The Department of Justice demands that the National Trust for Historic Preservation drop its lawsuit against Trump’s White House ballroom, Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate claims that the shooting at the WHCA dinner proves the  need for the ballroom, The administration has awarded a $17.4 million no bid contract for the repair of two fountains, Public money will pay for the fountain repairs, By May 1st, a deadline determined by the War Powers Act, Congress must either authorize the Iran War or let Trump continue the war without congressional approval, Trump has claimed the War Powers Act is unconstitutional, The idea that the president can act without authority from Congress demolishes a fundamental principle of our democracy.

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April 26, 2026

The Department of Justice demands that the National Trust for Historic Preservation drop its lawsuit against Trump’s White House ballroom, Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate claims that the shooting at the WHCA dinner proves the  need for the ballroom, The administration has awarded a $17.4 million no bid contract for the repair of two fountains, Public money will pay for the fountain repairs, By May 1st, a deadline determined by the War Powers Act, Congress must either authorize the Iran War or let Trump continue the war without congressional approval, Trump has claimed the War Powers Act is unconstitutional, The idea that the president can act without authority from Congress demolishes a fundamental principle of our democracy.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-26

White House Correspondents' Dinner

11 min Transcript
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April 25, 2026

Trump decides to attend the White House Correspondents’ Dinner for the first time, Trump has tried to silence the press during his second term, Trump and the First Lady were rushed out of the event after word that an armed man was outside the event, No one at the event was harmed, The right to freedom of the press is enshrined in the Constitution, While the press was openly partisan in the early days of the republic, by the 1880s the country began to push back and the number of independent newspapers took off, Reporters looking for stories began to station themselves at the White House, White House reporters organized the WHCA in 1914, The WHCA ensured that journalists who covered the White House would have access to press passes, After Trump’s re-election, the administration would no longer recognize the role of the WHCA in managing the White House press pool. 

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April 25, 2026

Trump decides to attend the White House Correspondents’ Dinner for the first time, Trump has tried to silence the press during his second term, Trump and the First Lady were rushed out of the event after word that an armed man was outside the event, No one at the event was harmed, The right to freedom of the press is enshrined in the Constitution, While the press was openly partisan in the early days of the republic, by the 1880s the country began to push back and the number of independent newspapers took off, Reporters looking for stories began to station themselves at the White House, White House reporters organized the WHCA in 1914, The WHCA ensured that journalists who covered the White House would have access to press passes, After Trump’s re-election, the administration would no longer recognize the role of the WHCA in managing the White House press pool. 

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Published 2026-04-25

Establishing the United Nations

7 min Transcript
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April 24, 2026

On April 25, 1945, delegates from 50 nations met to establish the United Nations, In the 1941 Atlantic Charter, Roosevelt and Churchill had laid out principles for an international system to prevent future world wars, The Declaration by United Nations formalized the alliance that would stand against fascist Axis powers, Representatives from the US, UK, Soviet Union, and China drafted the Dumbarton Oaks Proposal for the UN in 1944, As WWII came to an end, Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin met in Yalta and agreed to convene a conference of the nations of the UN, The UN Charter was adopted unanimously, The Charter declared the signers’ commitment to live in peace with each other and to work for the advancement of all peoples.

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April 24, 2026

On April 25, 1945, delegates from 50 nations met to establish the United Nations, In the 1941 Atlantic Charter, Roosevelt and Churchill had laid out principles for an international system to prevent future world wars, The Declaration by United Nations formalized the alliance that would stand against fascist Axis powers, Representatives from the US, UK, Soviet Union, and China drafted the Dumbarton Oaks Proposal for the UN in 1944, As WWII came to an end, Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin met in Yalta and agreed to convene a conference of the nations of the UN, The UN Charter was adopted unanimously, The Charter declared the signers’ commitment to live in peace with each other and to work for the advancement of all peoples.

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Published 2026-04-24

Purges at the Pentagon

11 min
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April 23, 2026

Pete Hegseth asks Secretary of the Navy John Phelan to resign, Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg moves to take over responsibility for shipbuilding and Navy acquisitions, Trump sides with Hegseth who has purged the military of its most senior ranks, The Pentagon cracks down on the independence of the newspaper Stars and Stripes, Republicans are trying to stengthen the power of the President, Republicans turn to budget reconciliation so they don’t have to negotiate with Democrats over funding, More than 100 former NASA astronauts launch a non partisan organization to protect American democracy. 

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April 23, 2026

Pete Hegseth asks Secretary of the Navy John Phelan to resign, Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg moves to take over responsibility for shipbuilding and Navy acquisitions, Trump sides with Hegseth who has purged the military of its most senior ranks, The Pentagon cracks down on the independence of the newspaper Stars and Stripes, Republicans are trying to stengthen the power of the President, Republicans turn to budget reconciliation so they don’t have to negotiate with Democrats over funding, More than 100 former NASA astronauts launch a non partisan organization to protect American democracy. 

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Published 2026-04-23

The Fight Over Gerrymandering

11 min
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April 22, 2026

Virginia voters support a constitutional amendment to temporarily redistrict the state, VA judge rules the amendment and the referendum were invalid, Virginia’s attorney general will challenge judge's decision, The partisan gerrymander race stated in Texas, Republicans are trying to excuse their partisan actions while jumping on Democrats for similar behavior, This pattern is not new, having played out before the Civil War, In 1856, northerners shocked southern leaders by calling them out for trying to destroy democracy, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez speaks out about the importance of Democrats defending themselves, echoing that moment. 

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April 22, 2026

Virginia voters support a constitutional amendment to temporarily redistrict the state, VA judge rules the amendment and the referendum were invalid, Virginia’s attorney general will challenge judge's decision, The partisan gerrymander race stated in Texas, Republicans are trying to excuse their partisan actions while jumping on Democrats for similar behavior, This pattern is not new, having played out before the Civil War, In 1856, northerners shocked southern leaders by calling them out for trying to destroy democracy, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez speaks out about the importance of Democrats defending themselves, echoing that moment. 

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Published 2026-04-22

A New Low

14 min
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April 21, 2026

Trump makes confusing statements about where things stand in Iran, Iranian officials say they are not sure about going to Pakistan for talks with the US this week, Reports indicate that Trump is considering using money from the US Treasury to shore up the finances of the UAE, Trump extends ceasefire with Iran, but Iran responds by saying it means nothing, Trump’s approval rating sinks to a new low, Administration demands election records from Wayne County and Detroit, MI, Mike Johnson suffers two embarrassing losses in the House, Virginia passes a redistricting referendum that may boost Democrats’ chances of winning four more seats in the House.

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April 21, 2026

Trump makes confusing statements about where things stand in Iran, Iranian officials say they are not sure about going to Pakistan for talks with the US this week, Reports indicate that Trump is considering using money from the US Treasury to shore up the finances of the UAE, Trump extends ceasefire with Iran, but Iran responds by saying it means nothing, Trump’s approval rating sinks to a new low, Administration demands election records from Wayne County and Detroit, MI, Mike Johnson suffers two embarrassing losses in the House, Virginia passes a redistricting referendum that may boost Democrats’ chances of winning four more seats in the House.

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Published 2026-04-21

Fecklessly Failing

14 min
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April 20, 2026

Reporting indicates Trump entered the Iran War convinced that Iranian people would support it, The closing of the Strait of Hormuz has left Trump unable to figure out a way out of the war, The two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran expires on April 22, Insider trading over Trump’s war announcements appears to be widespread,  Jared Kushner is doing business on his own behalf with the Saudis while leading diplomacy in the Middle East, Reporting in the Atlantic suggests Kash Patel’s behavior is endangering national security, Patel sues the Atlantic, Trump's secretary of labor resigns, becoming the third person, and third woman, to leave his cabinet. 

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More description

April 20, 2026

Reporting indicates Trump entered the Iran War convinced that Iranian people would support it, The closing of the Strait of Hormuz has left Trump unable to figure out a way out of the war, The two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran expires on April 22, Insider trading over Trump’s war announcements appears to be widespread,  Jared Kushner is doing business on his own behalf with the Saudis while leading diplomacy in the Middle East, Reporting in the Atlantic suggests Kash Patel’s behavior is endangering national security, Patel sues the Atlantic, Trump's secretary of labor resigns, becoming the third person, and third woman, to leave his cabinet. 

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Published 2026-04-20

Could the King Be Checked By the People?

14 min
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April 19, 2026

The Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1776, marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War, Just over a year later, the colonists would declare that the people had the right to be treated equally before the law and the right to govern themselves.

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April 19, 2026

The Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1776, marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War, Just over a year later, the colonists would declare that the people had the right to be treated equally before the law and the right to govern themselves.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-19

Damage

11 min
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April 18, 2026

The opening of the Strait of Hormuz is short lived, The fragile temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is cracking, Iran has not agreed to further talks with the US, Damage from Trump’s attack on Iran means that high oil prices will persist for weeks, US plans to seize commercial ships in international waters, Trump’s erratic behavior is causing wide concern even with former allies on the right, Supporting Trump appears to be a losing proposition in Europe.

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April 18, 2026

The opening of the Strait of Hormuz is short lived, The fragile temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is cracking, Iran has not agreed to further talks with the US, Damage from Trump’s attack on Iran means that high oil prices will persist for weeks, US plans to seize commercial ships in international waters, Trump’s erratic behavior is causing wide concern even with former allies on the right, Supporting Trump appears to be a losing proposition in Europe.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-18

Crises in the Wings

9 min
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April 17, 2026

Strait of Hormuz opens after 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon takes effect, Trump hits media circle announcing that the war with Iran is over, Trump claims Iran has agreed to all the US terms, but Iran’s top negotiator rejects these claims, Article in the Atlantic claims FBI's Kash Patel is barely functioning, House Democrats create task force to focus on corruption in the administration, Several organizations have filed briefs challenging Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS, Members of the House and the Senate introduce act to ban presidents and vice presidents from stealing taxpayer money.

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April 17, 2026

Strait of Hormuz opens after 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon takes effect, Trump hits media circle announcing that the war with Iran is over, Trump claims Iran has agreed to all the US terms, but Iran’s top negotiator rejects these claims, Article in the Atlantic claims FBI's Kash Patel is barely functioning, House Democrats create task force to focus on corruption in the administration, Several organizations have filed briefs challenging Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS, Members of the House and the Senate introduce act to ban presidents and vice presidents from stealing taxpayer money.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-17

The Republicans Seem Frantic

15 min
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April 16, 2026

Congress is back in session, Republicans are reckoning with Victor Orbán’s fall, With Trump’s erratic behavior, rising oil prices, and the Iran War, Republicans are rushing to grab turf before the midterms, Administration is targeting Minnesota by overturning the ban on mining upstream from the Boundary Waters, Trump is threatening to fire Jerome Powell again, Tulsi Gabbard has sent criminal referrals for Trump’s enemies to the DOJ, MAGA loyalists are realizing that there may be repercussions for their actions, Republicans are turning back to Islamophobia to reclaim support from their base, Past supporters are considering abandoning their investments in Trump interests, Trump posts frantically about the White House ballroom. 

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More description

April 16, 2026

Congress is back in session, Republicans are reckoning with Victor Orbán’s fall, With Trump’s erratic behavior, rising oil prices, and the Iran War, Republicans are rushing to grab turf before the midterms, Administration is targeting Minnesota by overturning the ban on mining upstream from the Boundary Waters, Trump is threatening to fire Jerome Powell again, Tulsi Gabbard has sent criminal referrals for Trump’s enemies to the DOJ, MAGA loyalists are realizing that there may be repercussions for their actions, Republicans are turning back to Islamophobia to reclaim support from their base, Past supporters are considering abandoning their investments in Trump interests, Trump posts frantically about the White House ballroom. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-16

Now He Belongs to the Ages

14 min
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April 15, 2026

Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln spent the evening of April 14 at Ford’s Theater in Washington, That night, John Wilkes Booth entered the presidential box and fatally shot Lincoln, As Americans mourned Lincoln’s death, Andrew Johnson restored the political power of the Confederates, Congress fought back, and after discrimination based on race became punishable, the Confederate rhetoric turned to economics, Right wing movements, claiming they fought for individual liberty expanded, eventually joined the planning and execution of the January 6 attack on the Capitol in 2021, Trump pardoned the participants, On April 15, President Abraham Lincoln died, breaking the hearts of those who supported his actions to preserve American democracy. 

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More description

April 15, 2026

Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln spent the evening of April 14 at Ford’s Theater in Washington, That night, John Wilkes Booth entered the presidential box and fatally shot Lincoln, As Americans mourned Lincoln’s death, Andrew Johnson restored the political power of the Confederates, Congress fought back, and after discrimination based on race became punishable, the Confederate rhetoric turned to economics, Right wing movements, claiming they fought for individual liberty expanded, eventually joined the planning and execution of the January 6 attack on the Capitol in 2021, Trump pardoned the participants, On April 15, President Abraham Lincoln died, breaking the hearts of those who supported his actions to preserve American democracy. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-15

The Changing Political Game

10 min
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April 14, 2026

Viktor Orbán’s loss of control of the Hungarian government has changed the political game in the US, Trump’s emotional state “seems to be fraying,”  Trump’s post, depicting him as Jesus, has generated an outcry from his followers, Rep Jamie Raskin introduces a bill to create a commission to evaluate the president’s mental state, The 25th Amendment establishes a process for evaluating a president’s fitness for office, The disastrous situation in Iran continues as Republicans refuse to take a strong stand against the war, Pam Bondi does not show up to testify under oath before Congress about her handling of the Epstein files. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

April 14, 2026

Viktor Orbán’s loss of control of the Hungarian government has changed the political game in the US, Trump’s emotional state “seems to be fraying,”  Trump’s post, depicting him as Jesus, has generated an outcry from his followers, Rep Jamie Raskin introduces a bill to create a commission to evaluate the president’s mental state, The 25th Amendment establishes a process for evaluating a president’s fitness for office, The disastrous situation in Iran continues as Republicans refuse to take a strong stand against the war, Pam Bondi does not show up to testify under oath before Congress about her handling of the Epstein files. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-14

Restore America to Its Own People

12 min
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April 13, 2026

Péter Magyar won the Hungarian election in a blowout, He revealed that Viktor Orbán was using government money to finance CPAC in the US, The modern day Republican Party has followed a historical pattern, endorsing the idea that society works best if a few wealthy men run everything, When Trump was elected, wealth had concentrated among the top 1% and skewing the vote was underway to advance this ideology, Orbán’s model was irresistable to right wing leaders, Trump and Vance have followed Orbán’s model, The dramatic rejection of Orbán by Hungarian voters represents a rejection of the radical right, FDR, calling for a “new deal” offered a blueprint for rebuilding democracy.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

April 13, 2026

Péter Magyar won the Hungarian election in a blowout, He revealed that Viktor Orbán was using government money to finance CPAC in the US, The modern day Republican Party has followed a historical pattern, endorsing the idea that society works best if a few wealthy men run everything, When Trump was elected, wealth had concentrated among the top 1% and skewing the vote was underway to advance this ideology, Orbán’s model was irresistable to right wing leaders, Trump and Vance have followed Orbán’s model, The dramatic rejection of Orbán by Hungarian voters represents a rejection of the radical right, FDR, calling for a “new deal” offered a blueprint for rebuilding democracy.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-13

Trump’s Broken Promises

13 min
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April 12, 2026War with Iran has pushed inflation to 3.3% - the fastest rate of growth in almost two years, Energy costs skyrocket as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, J.D. Vance negotiates with Iran in Pakistan but quickly announces that the negotiators could not reach an agreement, While negotiations were underway in Islamabad, Trump watches a UFC match in Miami, Trump announces a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, Viktor Orban, championed by MAGA, loses bid for re-election in Hungary, Pope Leo XIV speaks out against the administration’s claim that the war in Iran is a holy war, Trump attacks Pope Leo XIV in response.

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April 12, 2026War with Iran has pushed inflation to 3.3% - the fastest rate of growth in almost two years, Energy costs skyrocket as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, J.D. Vance negotiates with Iran in Pakistan but quickly announces that the negotiators could not reach an agreement, While negotiations were underway in Islamabad, Trump watches a UFC match in Miami, Trump announces a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, Viktor Orban, championed by MAGA, loses bid for re-election in Hungary, Pope Leo XIV speaks out against the administration’s claim that the war in Iran is a holy war, Trump attacks Pope Leo XIV in response.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-12

Attack on Fort Sumter

11 min
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April 11, 2026

On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces fired on South Carolina’s Fort Sumter, South Carolina had left the Union the previous December, When Abraham Lincoln took office in March, 1861, seven Southern states had left the Union, forming their own provisional government,  The Confederate government rested on the belief that Black men are not equal to white men, Northerners rejected the white southerners’ attempt to destroy the principles of the Declaration of Independence, After the attack on Fort Sumter, Lincoln called for troops to put down the rebellion against the government, The Civil War would take hundreds of thousands of lives at huge cost, But by its end, the institution of human enslavement was destroyed.

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April 11, 2026

On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces fired on South Carolina’s Fort Sumter, South Carolina had left the Union the previous December, When Abraham Lincoln took office in March, 1861, seven Southern states had left the Union, forming their own provisional government,  The Confederate government rested on the belief that Black men are not equal to white men, Northerners rejected the white southerners’ attempt to destroy the principles of the Declaration of Independence, After the attack on Fort Sumter, Lincoln called for troops to put down the rebellion against the government, The Civil War would take hundreds of thousands of lives at huge cost, But by its end, the institution of human enslavement was destroyed.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-11

Has Something Shifted?

9 min
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April 10, 2026

Donald Trump’s genocidal threats earlier this week terrorized millions of Iranians and thus violated the Geneva Conventions, Trump continues to try to assert his power over Iran, Trump has issued further threats in an interview and on social media, Trump is throwing the economic might of the US behind authoritarian Viktor Orban of Hungary in his run for re-election, Trump’s actions this week have given momentum to those trying to rein him in, Democrats are asking the president’s physician for a detailed report on Trump’s health, Pushback is being seen across the US, and rock and roll legend Bruce Springsteen is giving voice to that power.

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April 10, 2026

Donald Trump’s genocidal threats earlier this week terrorized millions of Iranians and thus violated the Geneva Conventions, Trump continues to try to assert his power over Iran, Trump has issued further threats in an interview and on social media, Trump is throwing the economic might of the US behind authoritarian Viktor Orban of Hungary in his run for re-election, Trump’s actions this week have given momentum to those trying to rein him in, Democrats are asking the president’s physician for a detailed report on Trump’s health, Pushback is being seen across the US, and rock and roll legend Bruce Springsteen is giving voice to that power.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-10

Falling Apart

10 min
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April 9, 2026

Trump’s ceasefire immediately begins to fall apart, Israel does not accept an end to its bombardment of southern Lebanon, Iran closes Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel’s continued bombing, Actual terms of the ceasefire remain murky and Trump backs away from his celebratory statements, Democrats return early to Washington DC to try to force a vote to end the war on Iran but Republicans shut them down, Melania Trump makes statement to the press about Jeffrey Epstein, Trump rages on social media at former allies and at the Wall Street Journal, and then posts a graphic video of the murder of a woman, accompanied by more wild and racist attacks. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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April 9, 2026

Trump’s ceasefire immediately begins to fall apart, Israel does not accept an end to its bombardment of southern Lebanon, Iran closes Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel’s continued bombing, Actual terms of the ceasefire remain murky and Trump backs away from his celebratory statements, Democrats return early to Washington DC to try to force a vote to end the war on Iran but Republicans shut them down, Melania Trump makes statement to the press about Jeffrey Epstein, Trump rages on social media at former allies and at the Wall Street Journal, and then posts a graphic video of the murder of a woman, accompanied by more wild and racist attacks. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-09

Meeting at Appomattox

3 min
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April 8, 2026

General Ulysses S. Grant and Confederate General Robert E. Lee agreed to meet at the home of Wilmer McLean in Appomattox on the afternoon of April 9 to work out the terms of the surrender of Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia, Upon signing the papers, the grandly dressed Lee told the somewhat disheveled Grant that his men were starving, Grant did not hesitate to agree to provide the soldiers with provisions, The Civil War was not won, as the South had imagined, by wealthy aristocrats, but by ordinary men of the Union Army who, like Grant, knew that they had a job to do.

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More description

April 8, 2026

General Ulysses S. Grant and Confederate General Robert E. Lee agreed to meet at the home of Wilmer McLean in Appomattox on the afternoon of April 9 to work out the terms of the surrender of Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia, Upon signing the papers, the grandly dressed Lee told the somewhat disheveled Grant that his men were starving, Grant did not hesitate to agree to provide the soldiers with provisions, The Civil War was not won, as the South had imagined, by wealthy aristocrats, but by ordinary men of the Union Army who, like Grant, knew that they had a job to do.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-07

Lies and Non Sequiturs

10 min
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April 6, 2026

According to Aaron Rupar, “It is difficult to cover him in a way that conveys how unhinged he is,”  The story is the president, himself, At the White House Easter Egg Roll Trump makes outrageous claims, Trump tells lies to reporters and to children attending the Easter Egg Roll, At a White House press conference Trump continues with lies and non sequiturs and alarming statements about destroying Iran’s infrastructure, Both chambers of Congress are away, and Republicans show no sign of calling them back in spite of Trump’s looming threats, NY mayor Zohran Mamdani is illustrating how a different kind of governing works.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

April 6, 2026

According to Aaron Rupar, “It is difficult to cover him in a way that conveys how unhinged he is,”  The story is the president, himself, At the White House Easter Egg Roll Trump makes outrageous claims, Trump tells lies to reporters and to children attending the Easter Egg Roll, At a White House press conference Trump continues with lies and non sequiturs and alarming statements about destroying Iran’s infrastructure, Both chambers of Congress are away, and Republicans show no sign of calling them back in spite of Trump’s looming threats, NY mayor Zohran Mamdani is illustrating how a different kind of governing works.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-06

The President’s Ultimatums

8 min
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April 5, 2026

In a rant on social media, Trump threatens Iran again,  Trump’s post threatens to commit war crimes, Post pushes back the deadline for extreme measures, possibly in an effort to affect the stock market, Trump claims talks are underway but Iran is not dealing with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner,  Kushner and Witkoff have deep financial ties to the Middle East, Saudi investments in the US are under review, Senators, journalists, former intelligence officers,, and predictions markets are expressing significant concerns about Trump’s cognitive state.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

April 5, 2026

In a rant on social media, Trump threatens Iran again,  Trump’s post threatens to commit war crimes, Post pushes back the deadline for extreme measures, possibly in an effort to affect the stock market, Trump claims talks are underway but Iran is not dealing with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner,  Kushner and Witkoff have deep financial ties to the Middle East, Saudi investments in the US are under review, Senators, journalists, former intelligence officers,, and predictions markets are expressing significant concerns about Trump’s cognitive state.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

Get full, free access to Letters from an American here: https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/subscribe

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Published 2026-04-06

Exerting Their Will

6 min
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April 4, 2026

Pete Hegseth fires US Army chief of staff, Iran shoots down a US fighter jet and hits a Warthog aircraft and a helicopter, One airman was missing but later rescued, Strikes come two days after Trump's claim that Iran has been beaten, No one in the administration has commented to the public about the strikes, A post on Trump’s social media suggests that he may be about to attack civilian targets. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

April 4, 2026

Pete Hegseth fires US Army chief of staff, Iran shoots down a US fighter jet and hits a Warthog aircraft and a helicopter, One airman was missing but later rescued, Strikes come two days after Trump's claim that Iran has been beaten, No one in the administration has commented to the public about the strikes, A post on Trump’s social media suggests that he may be about to attack civilian targets. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-04

NATO

6 min
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April 3, 2026April 4 is the anniversary of the creation of NATO - the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, After WWII, the US and its allies recognized the importance of peacetime alliances, The pact enlisted the US to stand behind the security of Western Europe, All 12 member states agreed to defend one another against an attack by a third party, Since 1949, the alliance has expanded to include 32 countries, Originally concerned mainly with resisting Soviet aggression, recently NATO has resisted the aggression of Putin’s Russia, NATO countries stand together without being identical, creating a diverse organization dedicated to the cause of freedom and peace. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

April 3, 2026April 4 is the anniversary of the creation of NATO - the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, After WWII, the US and its allies recognized the importance of peacetime alliances, The pact enlisted the US to stand behind the security of Western Europe, All 12 member states agreed to defend one another against an attack by a third party, Since 1949, the alliance has expanded to include 32 countries, Originally concerned mainly with resisting Soviet aggression, recently NATO has resisted the aggression of Putin’s Russia, NATO countries stand together without being identical, creating a diverse organization dedicated to the cause of freedom and peace. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-04

Administration is Feeling Pressure

15 min
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April 2, 2026

Trump invokes the right-wing vision of the Goldwater era, Trump's 2027 budget plan about to be released and will shape the Republican argument for the mid term elections, Administration is under pressure to fund domestic programs, Reporting shows that DHS has used special agents in immigration sweeps, resulting in use of force and deaths, Trump addresses nation, but does not make any significant announcement about the Iran war, Tension in Defense Department results in firings, Trump fires Attorney General Pam Bondi, angry about her handling of the Epstein files and that she has not adequately punished his enemies.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

April 2, 2026

Trump invokes the right-wing vision of the Goldwater era, Trump's 2027 budget plan about to be released and will shape the Republican argument for the mid term elections, Administration is under pressure to fund domestic programs, Reporting shows that DHS has used special agents in immigration sweeps, resulting in use of force and deaths, Trump addresses nation, but does not make any significant announcement about the Iran war, Tension in Defense Department results in firings, Trump fires Attorney General Pam Bondi, angry about her handling of the Epstein files and that she has not adequately punished his enemies.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-04-02

The Legacy of Birthright Citizenship

13 min
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April 1, 2026

Trump attended the Supreme Court hearing of the case under which he hopes to end birthright citizenship, which is guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment, The Fourteenth Amendment overturned the Dred Scott decision and established that Black men were citizens, While discriminatory laws persisted until after WWI, the Supreme Court always upheld the citizenship of children born in the US, In the 1898 Wong Kim Ark decision, the court upheld birthright citizenship, Trump appeared at the Supreme Court presumably to intimidate the justices during the hearing, The ACLU’s Cecilia Wang, herself a Fourteenth Amendment citizen, argued the case for the plaintiffs.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

April 1, 2026

Trump attended the Supreme Court hearing of the case under which he hopes to end birthright citizenship, which is guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment, The Fourteenth Amendment overturned the Dred Scott decision and established that Black men were citizens, While discriminatory laws persisted until after WWI, the Supreme Court always upheld the citizenship of children born in the US, In the 1898 Wong Kim Ark decision, the court upheld birthright citizenship, Trump appeared at the Supreme Court presumably to intimidate the justices during the hearing, The ACLU’s Cecilia Wang, herself a Fourteenth Amendment citizen, argued the case for the plaintiffs.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-03-31

The Whims of a Single Man

14 min
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March 30, 2026

Trump shares images of new White House ballroom, Trump again suggests discussions to end war in Iran are underway but Iran insists it is not engaged in talks with the US, Trump threatens to commit war crimes in Iran, Price of oil rises to $116/barrel, Current crisis shows what a government imagined by Movement Conservatives and beholden to the whims of one man looks like, Congress is out of session until April 13 and Trump is moving to escalate the Iran war, Republicans are considering cuts to health care spending, Insiders are leaking information about administration insiders, Trump’s approval ratings hit new lows. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

March 30, 2026

Trump shares images of new White House ballroom, Trump again suggests discussions to end war in Iran are underway but Iran insists it is not engaged in talks with the US, Trump threatens to commit war crimes in Iran, Price of oil rises to $116/barrel, Current crisis shows what a government imagined by Movement Conservatives and beholden to the whims of one man looks like, Congress is out of session until April 13 and Trump is moving to escalate the Iran war, Republicans are considering cuts to health care spending, Insiders are leaking information about administration insiders, Trump’s approval ratings hit new lows. 

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-03-29

Turning Out For History

12 min
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March 28,2026

Trump is attempting to rewrite our nation’s history, Administration calls for putting Trump's ideology in place in federal historic sites, national parks, and museums, The Smithsonian Institution has been charged with aligning the work of all of its museums with Trump’s effort to rewrite the past, On the anniversary of January 6, the White House released a website blaming the Democrats for the attack on the Capitol, When the National Park Service took down displays about the enslavement of black Americans at the Philadelphia home of George Washington, the city sued, American people are pushing back against the erasure of American history. Citizen historians are preserving the country’s heritage, On March 28, millions gathered at No Kings demonstrations nationwide, remembering our complicated history and the true lessons of the past.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

March 28,2026

Trump is attempting to rewrite our nation’s history, Administration calls for putting Trump's ideology in place in federal historic sites, national parks, and museums, The Smithsonian Institution has been charged with aligning the work of all of its museums with Trump’s effort to rewrite the past, On the anniversary of January 6, the White House released a website blaming the Democrats for the attack on the Capitol, When the National Park Service took down displays about the enslavement of black Americans at the Philadelphia home of George Washington, the city sued, American people are pushing back against the erasure of American history. Citizen historians are preserving the country’s heritage, On March 28, millions gathered at No Kings demonstrations nationwide, remembering our complicated history and the true lessons of the past.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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Published 2026-03-28

Republican Governance in This Era

14 min
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March 27, 2026

The battle over funding TSA continues, Trump and MAGA Republican extremism is so unpopular that Republicans cannot govern, Americans have turned against Trump’s handling of immigration, Senate Democrats refuse to give a blank check to ICE and Border Patrol,  Republicans vote down Democrats’ attempts to fund the rest of DHS including TSA, Trump demands SAVE America Act be attached to funding DHS, Trump calls for getting rid of the filibuster, Mike Johnson refuses to bring Senate’s measure to fund all of DHS except ICE and CBP to a vote, White House official suggests Trump is bored with Iran, The global economy is not moving on.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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More description

March 27, 2026

The battle over funding TSA continues, Trump and MAGA Republican extremism is so unpopular that Republicans cannot govern, Americans have turned against Trump’s handling of immigration, Senate Democrats refuse to give a blank check to ICE and Border Patrol,  Republicans vote down Democrats’ attempts to fund the rest of DHS including TSA, Trump demands SAVE America Act be attached to funding DHS, Trump calls for getting rid of the filibuster, Mike Johnson refuses to bring Senate’s measure to fund all of DHS except ICE and CBP to a vote, White House official suggests Trump is bored with Iran, The global economy is not moving on.

Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-

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