Three to Get Ready for July 14, 2026

Bad News First

The news can be a grind, but it can also focus our engagement. Let’s take a quick peek.

1. The President notified Congress that he has initiated a brand new military action against Iran, which he believes re-starts the 60-day War Powers Act clock.
2. An ICE officer shot a man in Maine, first claiming that the man weaponized his vehicle, then claiming the officer feared for public safety. Reminder: Maine Senator Susan Collins voted for additional ICE funding.
3. After serving subpoenas to several New York Times reporters, the Departments of Defense and Justice announced a joint taskforce to identify and prosecute leakers.

But Here’s the Good News

Encouraging developments don’t always make the headlines. But good news can be energizing so take a look!

1. A federal judge ruled that Trump acted in bad faith when he filed, then dropped, his lawsuit against the IRS in exchange for immunity from tax law and a “weaponization” slush fund, sending a copy to the New York State Bar, where Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche is already under ethics review.
2. More than 100,000 comments were submitted on the proposed rule to make scientific grants subject to political review. GOOD JOB! And, after receiving 30,000 comments, the administration has abandoned a proposal to withhold Medicaid and Medicare funds from hospitals that provide pediatric gender-affirming care. A-PLUS!
3. A federal judge dismissed the DOJ’s demand for West Virginia voter registration data, bringing the state voter roll scoreboard to zero for 13 attempts.

And Here’s What You Can Do

Do something. Feel better.

1. Contact your Senators to oppose the confirmation of Todd Blanche for Attorney General. Sample talking points.
2. Make a donation to help flip Susan Collins’ senate seat blue.
3. Read feminist scholar bell hooks and annoy JD Vance in the process.