April 14, 2025

April 13, 2025

April 12, 2025

April 11, 2025

• Trade tensions are heating up, with China reportedly jacking up tariffs on U.S. goods to 125% from 84% in response to Trump’s tariff moves. The EU’s holding off on retaliatory tariffs for 90 days, matching a pause by Trump on some countries. Markets are jittery over the escalating trade war.
• A tragic helicopter crash in New York City’s Hudson River yesterday killed six, including a family of five from Barcelona. It’s got people talking about aviation safety.
• In sports, FC Barcelona’s unbeaten streak in 2025 continues, and the Los Angeles Dodgers are facing the Chicago Cubs tonight at Dodger Stadium.
• Political chatter includes Canada’s federal election campaign, with party leaders like Singh and Blanchet making moves today. Also, some buzz about a Russian-American woman freed in a prisoner swap.
• Heat wave’s expected in parts of the U.S. this weekend, and Florida’s looking at breezy conditions with showers tonight.
  

April 10, 2025

• President Donald Trump has authorized a 90-day pause on the higher "reciprocal" tariffs announced earlier this month, except for those targeting China, which now face an additional 50% duty on imports. The baseline 10% tariff on most countries, effective since April 5, remains in place. The European Union has matched this pause, lowering duties on EU goods from 20% to the 10% baseline, while China has retaliated by raising tariffs on U.S. goods to 84%. This shift triggered a historic market rally globally, though concerns linger about a potential U.S. and global recession, with Goldman Sachs raising its U.S. recession forecast to 45% within the next year.
  • Mortgage and refinance interest rates are rising alongside the 10-year Treasury yield, nearing 7%. Experts note this increase reflects market reactions to Trump’s tariff policies, which could drive inflation and limit the Federal Reserve’s ability to cut rates. Rate shopping is recommended as economic uncertainty persists.
  • The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield has jumped from 3.9% to 4.5%—the highest since February—following a significant bond selloff. This is linked to waning confidence in the economy amid the trade war escalation, despite a recent auction easing some demand concerns.
• The mid-South and Ohio River Valley continue to recover from severe weather and flash flooding that killed at least 25 people. Over 90 tornadoes were reported across 10 states since last weekend, with ongoing risks of storms and flooding in the Southeast.
  • Globally, clean energy surpassed 40% of electricity production in 2024, with solar power doubling in three years, led by China and India. While a step toward sustainability, rising energy demands from AI, data centers, and heatwaves keep fossil fuels in play—a bittersweet milestone for environmentalists.
  • The Bespoke Jet AI Ultra 2025, launched today, lets users receive call and text alerts through their vacuum cleaner. This quirky blend of tech and daily life has sparked amused chatter online, showcasing humanity’s quirky embrace of AI.

April 9, 2025

Stock markets are experiencing a relief rally with a reported 2% surge, though volatility is expected to persist. This follows global economic shifts, including new U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods taking effect, as noted in posts on X. These "reciprocal" tariffs, linked to President Trump’s policies, are anticipated to impact markets further.


The U.S. has imposed a 104% tariff on Chinese goods, prompting discussions about potential Chinese countermeasures. Sources indicate China may hold a high-level meeting today to devise support strategies in response, as mentioned in posts on X.


The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to announce its rate decision today, a key event for markets and investors, highlighted in posts on X. Additionally, private bank hiring in India may slow due to reduced employee turnover, according to reports.

In the U.S., the Supreme Court has allowed Trump to enforce deportations, a significant ruling reported in posts on X. Meanwhile, Chief Justice Roberts has blocked a judge’s order in a separate case, and Florida authorities have busted a major international child pornography ring—both noted as big stories for today on X.

International News:

In Nigeria, 11 PDP governors are urging the Supreme Court to halt an emergency rule in Rivers State, a developing political story reported in posts on X. In India, foreign shipyards are eyeing opportunities as the country considers easing quality rules that previously frustrated U.S. trade negotiators.


Delhi is planning to ban petrol and CNG two-wheelers and auto-rickshaws, a move aimed at tackling pollution, as mentioned in posts on X. Meanwhile, in South Korea, a $2 billion emergency aid package for carmakers has been unveiled following the U.S. tariff hikes.


The U.S. Supreme Court has issued a ruling allowing President Trump to enforce deportations. This decision, highlighted in posts on X, marks a significant development in immigration policy and has sparked widespread discussion online.

Chief Justice John Roberts has intervened to block a judge’s order in a separate legal case. While specifics of the case aren’t fully detailed in the available data, this action is noted as a notable judicial move for the day, also referenced in posts on X.


Authorities in Florida have dismantled a major international child pornography ring. This law enforcement operation has been flagged as a "big story" in posts on X, underscoring its significance in the news cycle for April 9, 2025. 

On April 8, 2025, the roof of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, collapsed during a merengue concert by Rubby Pérez, killing at least 113 people and injuring over 160, with the death toll rising as rescue efforts continued into April 9. The sudden disaster, which struck shortly after midnight, claimed notable figures like ex-MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, and Nelsy Cruz, a provincial governor, amid a crowd of prominent attendees. Over 370 rescue personnel, using heavy machinery, drones, and dogs, have been deployed, while President Luis Abinader visited the site of the decades-old venue—previously damaged by a 2023 fire—as investigations into the cause begin. The tragedy has sparked widespread grief, with global music stars and communities, including the Dominican diaspora, mourning the loss.

April 8, 2025

1. U.S.-China Trade War Heats Up: President Donald Trump has threatened an additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports, on top of existing tariffs, in response to China’s 34% retaliatory tariff on U.S. goods. China vows to "fight to the end," with its Foreign Ministry rejecting the move as lacking seriousness for dialogue. U.S. stock markets showed a mixed response, with the S&P 500 opening up 3.4% amid hopes of a potential deal.
2. Trump-Netanyahu Meeting: Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, announcing direct talks with Iran to begin soon, mediated through a third party. A planned joint news conference was abruptly canceled without explanation. Netanyahu seeks a deal to exempt Israel from U.S. tariffs, but no breakthrough was reported.
3. ASEAN Pushes for Tariff Talks: The ASEAN chair is urging negotiations with the U.S. to mitigate the impact of escalating tariffs, as regional economies brace for fallout from the U.S.-China trade spat.
4. Supreme Court Rulings in the U.S.: The U.S. Supreme Court allowed Trump to use the Alien Enemies Act for deportations of alleged Venezuelan gang members, reversing a lower court block. Separately, Chief Justice John Roberts paused a deadline to return a Maryland man mistakenly deported to El Salvador.
5. Global Market Reactions: European markets are jittery as the EU considers 25% counter-tariffs on U.S. imports. U.S. crude oil prices dropped 2.08% to $60.70 per barrel, reflecting trade uncertainty.
6. Health and Environment: On World Health Day, the WHO highlighted maternal and newborn health. Meanwhile, U.S. Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. called for states to ban fluoridated water, sparking debate given the CDC’s long-standing support for fluoridation.
7. Local U.S. Stories: In California, Fairfield police are investigating a shooting that left three men injured, believed to be targeted. Tennessee families are dealing with flooded homes, while San Francisco plans five new outdoor "entertainment zones" allowing public drinking to boost the economy.
8. International Highlights: Bangladesh recorded a historic $3.29 billion in remittances for March. In Canada, a measles case in Kingston, Ontario, has public health officials tracing exposures.
9. Economic Notes: Gold prices in Pakistan dipped to Rs318,000 per tola, tracking global trends. Taiwan’s UMC reported its March sales, offering a glimpse into tech sector stability.
10. Crime and Politics: Asheboro, North Carolina, police arrested a man for vehicle break-ins, urging residents to lock cars. North Carolina Republicans proposed a highly restrictive abortion ban, stirring controversy.

April 7, 2025

• Global Stock Market Plunge Due to Trump Tariffs
  U.S. stock futures dropped sharply on Monday morning, signaling further financial turmoil as markets react to President Donald Trump’s recently implemented tariffs. As of 7:30 AM EDT, Dow Jones Industrial Average futures fell nearly 700 points (1.7%), S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures dropped around 2%, and Russell 2000 futures declined 2.1%. This follows a two-day market free-fall last week that erased $6.6 trillion in value, with crude oil prices hitting their lowest since April 2021 at around $63 a barrel and bitcoin falling 1.2% after a 7% weekend drop. The tariff effects are reverberating globally, with Asian and European markets also collapsing, reminiscent of post-COVID and financial crisis downturns.
• Anti-Trump Protests Across the U.S. and Beyond
  Over 1,400 "Hands Off!" protests against President Trump and Elon Musk erupted across all 50 U.S. states on Saturday, April 5, continuing into Sunday. Organized by pro-democracy groups, the demonstrations oppose Trump’s tariff policies and perceived attacks on rights, with additional protests in cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, Paris, and London. In Washington, D.C., crowds grew around the Washington Monument, carrying Ukrainian flags and Palestinian symbols, while Los Angeles and Hollywood, Florida, saw lively scenes of dissent.
• More Than 50 Countries Seek Tariff Negotiations
  Top U.S. administration officials reported on Sunday, April 6, that over 50 countries targeted by Trump’s new 10% import tax, effective Saturday, have reached out to negotiate. Steeper tariffs are set to begin midweek, prompting urgent responses from nations like Japan, facing a 24% levy, with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba seeking direct talks with the U.S.
• Measles Outbreak in Texas Worsens
  A second child has died from measles in Texas, part of an outbreak that has now recorded nearly 500 cases across 22 states, as reported by state officials on Monday morning. This marks a significant public health concern amid ongoing debates over vaccination policies.
• Middle East Developments
  Iran-backed militias in Iraq are preparing to disarm to avoid escalating conflict with the Trump administration, according to Reuters on Monday. Meanwhile, the Israeli army admitted mistakes in killing 15 emergency workers in Gaza last month, with new video evidence contradicting initial claims, reported Sunday. Separately, the IDF eliminated a Mujahideen Brigades member linked to an October 7 kidnapping on Sunday.
• U.S. Deportation Error Sparks Legal Clash
  A federal judge in Maryland ordered the Trump administration on Friday, April 4, to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man mistakenly deported to a Salvadoran mega-prison. His wife spoke out Sunday at a news conference, escalating tensions between the White House and courts.
• Entertainment Highlights
  Saturday Night Live’s April 5 episode, hosted by Jack Black with Mike Myers as Elon Musk, poked fun at Trump’s tariffs and Morgan Wallen’s last-minute exit from the prior week’s show. Audience curses during Ego Nwodim’s segment were cut from reruns, reported Sunday.
• Weather and Regional News
  Dangerous storms threatened millions in the U.S. South on Sunday, April 6, as reported by NBC News. In Florida, a man arrested Saturday for stealing an ambulance and another waking up without an arm after a mysterious incident near water were among quirky local stories.

April 6, 2025

• Trump Tariffs Impact Markets and Policy: The U.S. began collecting a 10% tariff on imports from numerous countries, causing global stock markets to plummet. This move, part of President Donald Trump's broader tariff strategy, has sparked reactions worldwide, with some nations like China retaliating with their own tariffs on U.S. goods. The Federal Reserve has warned of potential inflation and unemployment risks in the U.S. due to these policies. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are voicing support for congressional oversight on tariffs, and Elon Musk has criticized a key figure behind the tariff plan, indicating internal tensions within the Trump administration.
• Humanitarian Aid Cuts: The Trump administration's significant reductions to USAID have led to the firing of U.S. aid workers in Myanmar during earthquake recovery efforts. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the slow U.S. response, citing difficulties with Myanmar's military government, and signaled a shift away from the U.S. being the top global humanitarian donor.
• Legal and Immigration Developments: A judge ordered the return of a Maryland man mistakenly deported to El Salvador, highlighting immigration enforcement errors. Separately, U.S. prosecutors recommended over seven years in prison for George Santos, and the U.S. canceled visas for South Sudanese citizens amid a deportation dispute, with entry bans at U.S. ports.
• Health Alert: The U.S. has reported over 600 measles cases across 22 states, with Texas seeing the majority, raising concerns about the disease's long-term effects despite recovery being common.

April 5, 2025

1. Trump’s Agenda Hits Roadblocks
   Reports suggest Trump’s ambitious plans face political and economic hurdles, with conservatives likely defending his vision as bold leadership against a resistant establishment. Critics within the party, like Ted Cruz, voicing concerns over tariffs’ job impacts, might be viewed as pragmatic but risk diluting unity. The narrative could frame Democrats’ gains in contested races as a temporary setback, not a rejection of conservative principles.

2. Christine Grady Fired from NIH
   Earlier this week (April 2), Christine Grady, wife of Dr. Anthony Fauci, was ousted from her NIH bioethics role under Trump’s administration. Conservatives might celebrate this as long-overdue accountability for the Fauci family’s alleged mishandling of COVID-19 narratives, with calls for further investigations into ethical breaches. It’s seen as a win for draining the swamp, though some warn of overreach chilling scientific independence.

U.S. Entertainment News (Conservative Viewpoint)

1. Disney Pauses ‘Tangled’ Remake After ‘Snow White’ Flop
   Disney’s decision to halt its ‘Tangled’ remake following the box office failure of a reimagined ‘Snow White’ is likely cheered by conservatives as a market rejection of woke revisions to classic tales. Outlets like Fox News might frame it as proof that audiences prefer traditional storytelling over progressive agendas, with commentators possibly mocking Disney’s financial misstep.

2. Samuel Henderson’s Bird Imitations
   An 11-year-old from Oklahoma, Samuel Henderson, showcased his talent for imitating 50 bird species, earning praise on conservative-leaning platforms like CBS News. This could be highlighted as a wholesome, all-American story of individual skill, contrasting with Hollywood’s focus on glitz and ideology—a nod to heartland values over coastal elitism.

‘The View’ Slams Trump Tariffs
The hosts of ‘The View’ reportedly criticized Trump’s tariff announcement, a reaction conservatives might dismiss as predictable liberal bias from a show out of touch with working-class concerns. Commentary on platforms like Fox News could use this to underscore a cultural divide, positioning tariff support as a defense of American labor against elitist talking heads.

1. Trump’s Tariff Plans Face Global Backlash
   President Trump’s renewed push for tariffs has stirred international tension, with China already retaliating by imposing counter-tariffs. Conservatives might argue this is a necessary stand to protect American jobs and sovereignty, though some, like Senator Ted Cruz, warn of potential economic fallout if other nations escalate. The stock market’s recent turmoil is seen by some as liberal media exaggerating the impact to undermine Trump’s agenda, while others acknowledge the real challenge of balancing trade policies.

2. Middle East Updates
   Conservative outlets might highlight Israel’s ongoing security efforts, framing them as a justified defense against threats, with outlets like The Jerusalem Post providing updates on military and diplomatic moves. From this view, U.S. support for Israel remains a moral and strategic imperative, contrasting with perceived weakness in prior liberal administrations.

3. American’s Sentinelese Encounter
   A 24-year-old American’s attempt to contact the isolated Sentinelese tribe, reported by Indian authorities, could be spun as a cautionary tale of reckless idealism. Conservatives might criticize it as emblematic of naive overreach, ignoring cultural boundaries and practical risks, aligning with a broader skepticism of globalist meddling.

• Earthquakes on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula

• Details: Over 600 earthquakes have been recorded since midnight local time (approximately 8:00 PM EDT on April 4, 2025), primarily between Stóra Skógfell and Keilir. This follows a volcanic eruption earlier in the week, with ongoing seismic activity indicating potential for further unrest. No new eruption or major damage has been reported in the last 26 hours, but evacuations remain in effect.

• Conservative Viewpoint: Likely framed as a natural geological event, not a climate change signal, with emphasis on Iceland’s volcanic history and preparedness rather than globalist agendas.

• Source: Consistent with X posts and prior conservative coverage of Iceland’s volcanic activity (e.g., Fox News archives).

• Flash Flood Emergency in Texarkana (Arkansas/Texas) and Van Buren, Missouri

• Details: As of 06:17 AM EDT on April 5, 2025, a flash flood emergency persists in Texarkana with numerous water rescues overnight. Van Buren, Missouri, also reports ongoing rescues due to severe flooding. Heavy rainfall has overwhelmed local infrastructure.

• Tornado Damage in Selmer, Tennessee

• Details: A large tornado caused significant damage in Selmer, Tennessee, within the last 26 hours (reported late April 4 on X). Specific casualty or damage details are still emerging, but it’s part of a broader severe weather event in the U.S. South.

• Flooding in Nashville, Tennessee

• Details: Heavy floods struck Nashville within the last 26 hours (noted on X late April 4), causing widespread disruption. Exact impacts are still being assessed, but it follows a pattern of intense weather in the Midsouth.

April 4, 2025

1. Trump’s Tariff Plan Sparks Economic Debate
   President Donald Trump’s announcement of sweeping tariffs, including a baseline 10% on all U.S. imports and higher reciprocal levies on certain nations, has dominated headlines. Conservatives may hail this as a bold move to protect American workers and industries, countering decades of globalization that they argue have hollowed out the middle class. Critics, including some world leaders, warn of inflation and recession risks, but supporters see it as a necessary stand against unfair trade practices, especially from countries like China. Markets dipped globally, reflecting uncertainty, yet some conservative voices argue this short-term pain is worth long-term sovereignty and job growth.
2. Michigan Auto Industry Braces for Impact
   With Trump’s 25% auto tariffs now in effect, Michigan’s auto sector is on edge. Conservative perspectives might frame this as a win for American manufacturing, forcing foreign competitors to either build in the U.S. or pay up, thus securing jobs. However, there’s concern among some industry leaders about higher costs for consumers—a tension conservatives may downplay in favor of the broader “America First” agenda.
3. Becerra Jumps into California Governor Race
   Former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has entered the California gubernatorial race. From a conservative viewpoint, this could be seen as another liberal elite pushing progressive policies in a state already struggling with high taxes, crime, and homelessness under Democratic rule. Critics might argue his tenure at HHS, marked by layoffs and bureaucratic expansion, signals more of the same for California.
4. TikTok Ban Clock Ticks Down
   The deadline for a potential TikTok ban looms, with conservatives likely cheering the move as a national security victory against Chinese influence. The app’s ties to Beijing have long been a rallying cry for those prioritizing data privacy and cultural integrity, though some may note the free-market implications of government intervention in tech.
5. Newsmax Stock Soars 2,200%
   Conservative media outlet Newsmax, endorsed by Trump, saw its stock surge over 2,200% since debuting on the NYSE. This could be celebrated as a triumph of alternative media over the “mainstream liberal bias,” reflecting growing public demand for conservative voices in a polarized landscape.

1. Hollywood TV Exec’s Pro-America, Pro-Faith Message
   A Hollywood TV executive delivered a powerful statement emphasizing pro-America and pro-faith values, noting that “things have changed” in the industry. Shared widely on X and reported by Faithwire, this resonates with Christians who see it as a hopeful shift toward entertainment that honors God and country. It’s a rare glimmer of light in an industry often criticized for secularism and moral drift, suggesting a potential opening for more faith-friendly content.
2. ‘American Idol’ Easter Sunday Special
   ABC’s American Idol is set to air an Easter Sunday special that promises to “take us to church,” according to posts on X. From a Christian perspective, this could be a refreshing nod to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, offering a platform for worship and inspiration during a sacred season. Past episodes have featured aspiring preachers earning platinum tickets with performances giving glory to God, a trend Christians might hope continues here.
3. Netflix Criticized for Anti-Christian Moment
   Netflix faced backlash after a reality show host reportedly shamed a churchgoing contestant, an incident labeled “disgusting” by some on X and covered by Western Journal. Christians might view this as another example of Hollywood mocking faith, reflecting a broader cultural hostility toward biblical values. It’s a call to discernment—encouraging believers to support platforms that uplift rather than tear down their convictions.
4. Newsmax Stock Surge Reflects Christian Media Demand
   While not strictly entertainment, Newsmax—a conservative outlet with Christian appeal—saw its stock soar 2,200% since its NYSE debut, buoyed by Trump’s endorsement. Christians might celebrate this as a sign of growing appetite for media that aligns with their worldview, offering an alternative to the often faith-averse mainstream entertainment landscape.
5. Ongoing Faith-Based Projects Gain Traction
   Though not tied to specific 24-hour updates, recent Christian entertainment efforts like The King of Kings (an animated Gospel film) and Kirk Cameron’s Iggy and Mr. Kirk (a faith-based kids’ show) remain relevant. These projects, noted in earlier Christian Post reports, reflect a steady push for wholesome, Christ-centered content—countering the tide of immorality often found in secular media.
Christian Takeaway
From a Christian viewpoint, the past 24 hours in U.S. entertainment reveal a mixed landscape. Positive developments—like the American Idol Easter special and a Hollywood exec’s faith-friendly stance—offer hope that God’s truth can penetrate Tinseltown. Yet, incidents like Netflix’s jab at a believer remind Christians to stay vigilant, supporting entertainment that honors their faith while rejecting what undermines it. The Newsmax surge hints at a broader cultural hunger for values-aligned media, encouraging believers to pray for and invest in content that glorifies God. For real-time reactions, Christian voices on X or outlets like Christian Post might provide further insight as the day unfolds.

1. Natural Disasters and Weather News Worldwide
   1. Tornado Outbreak in the U.S. Midwest and South
      A historic tornado outbreak struck parts of the U.S., including Arkansas, Indiana, Ohio, and Georgia, over the past day. Posts on X and Weather Channel reports indicate multiple tornadoes, with a confirmed sighting near Indianapolis late on April 2. Damage assessments are underway, with daylight expected to reveal the full extent of destruction in places like Lake City, Arkansas. This event, paired with golf ball-sized hail and thunderstorms, has been described as catastrophic, with active tornado alerts spanning over 300 miles. Flooding has also compounded the crisis in some areas.
   2. Flooding in Scotland, Cleveland, Delaware, and Florida (U.S.)
      Flood warnings were active across multiple regions, including Scotland and parts of the U.S. like Cleveland, Delaware, and Florida, as noted in X posts from the past day. Heavy rainfall has led to flash flooding, though specific impacts within the last 24 hours are still emerging. This aligns with broader reports of severe weather systems affecting both sides of the Atlantic.
   3. South Korea Wildfire Aftermath
      While the peak of South Korea’s devastating wildfires occurred earlier this week (killing 24 and burning over 67 square miles), containment efforts continued into April 3. Rain and cooler weather have aided firefighters, with the Korea Forest Service reporting progress. The situation remains critical, with the highest wildfire warning level still in place, reflecting ongoing risks as of the last 24 hours.
   4. Tsunami Warning After Taiwan Earthquake (Regional Impact)
      A 7.7 magnitude earthquake near Taiwan on April 3 triggered tsunami warnings for Japan and nearby areas. Although the immediate threat has subsided, posts on X highlight the event’s significance within the last 24 hours, with potential aftershocks and coastal concerns lingering. No major tsunami damage has been reported yet, but it underscores seismic activity in the Pacific Ring of Fire.
   5. Ongoing Flooding and Landslide Risks in Indonesia
      Recent posts on X mention flash flooding in Central Java (Sirampog) and a volcanic eruption at Dukono, Indonesia, though these may extend slightly beyond the exact 24-hour window. Indonesia’s rainy season continues to drive landslide and flood risks, with earlier reports this year (e.g., Pekalongan) noting significant destruction. No specific new incidents were detailed for April 3-4, but the region remains on alert.
   6. Severe Storms in Australia (Residual Effects)
      While ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s landfall was earlier in March, residual heavy rainfall forecasts for Brisbane and the Gold Coast were noted in prior reports. Within the last 24 hours, no new major updates emerged, but cleanup and recovery efforts from recent storms likely persisted, as per trends in Australian weather news.
      

April 3, 2025

• 1. Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs Spark Trade War Concerns
     President Donald Trump announced new import tariffs via executive order, imposing a baseline 10% tax on all goods entering the U.S., with higher rates for specific countries (e.g., 20% for the EU, 24% for Japan, 25% for South Korea, and 32% for Taiwan). A separate 25% tariff on foreign-made cars began at midnight. The White House defends the move, claiming it will boost U.S. manufacturing, but analysts warn of potential price hikes and recession risks. Stock futures dropped, and global markets felt immediate turbulence.
  2. Tornadoes and Heavy Rains Hit Central and Southern U.S.
     Severe weather, including tornadoes and heavy rainfall, swept across central and southern states, causing widespread concern for safety and property damage. Details on specific impacts are still emerging.
  3. Supreme Court Case on Medicaid and Planned Parenthood
     The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a case testing whether South Carolina can exclude Planned Parenthood from its Medicaid program, despite federal restrictions on using Medicaid funds for abortions. The outcome could affect healthcare access in multiple states.
  4. Musk Team’s USAID Firing Notices Under Scrutiny
     Sources report that a team linked to Elon Musk issued inaccurate firing notices to USAID employees, prompting legal challenges. The group has been ordered to send corrected versions, raising questions about Musk’s influence in government operations.
  5. First U.S. Child Measles Death in a Decade
     For the first time in ten years, a child in the U.S. died of measles, highlighting concerns over declining vaccination rates and public health responses.
  6. Senator Cory Booker’s Record-Breaking Speech
     Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) spoke for over 25 hours on the Senate floor, breaking a record previously held by Strom Thurmond, to protest President Trump’s actions since taking office in January 2025.

April 2, 2025

• Trump Unveils Tariff Plan: President Trump is set to announce a sweeping tariff plan today, dubbed "America’s Liberation Day," which includes reciprocal tariffs on U.S. trading partners. Reports suggest a proposed 20% tariff could generate $6 trillion, though global markets are reacting with unease as stocks wince and gold prices firm up ahead of the announcement.
• Cory Booker’s Record-Breaking Senate Speech: Democratic Senator Cory Booker delivered a 25-hour speech, the longest in Senate history, surpassing Strom Thurmond’s 1957 record of 24 hours and 18 minutes. The symbolic protest against Trump delayed legislative business, highlighting a "grave and urgent" moment, though it was not a filibuster.
• Wisconsin Supreme Court Race: Liberal judge Susan Crawford won a high-profile Wisconsin Supreme Court election, a key contest that saw strong voter turnout. The state’s voter ID amendment is noted as making rollbacks to such rules more challenging.
• Health Agency Layoffs: Trump initiated mass layoffs at the FDA, CDC, and other U.S. health agencies, signaling a significant restructuring of federal health oversight.
• U.S. Soldier Missing in Lithuania: The search continues for a fourth U.S. Army soldier from Fort Stewart, Georgia, missing in Lithuania after an armored vehicle submerged in a swamp during a training mission last week. Three of the four missing soldiers were found dead on Monday.
• Measles Death: For the first time in a decade, a U.S. child died of measles, raising concerns about vaccination rates.
• California Dental Surgery Death: A girl in California died following dental surgery, with details still emerging about the incident.
• Val Kilmer’s Death: Actor Val Kilmer, known for roles in "Top Gun" and "Batman Forever," reportedly passed away at 65 overnight, though confirmation remains pending from official sources.