Dow hits record high as Trump tries to soothe Americans' economic frustration

Mike Lindell, a prominent supporter of former President Trump and founder of MyPillow, has officially announced his candidacy for the Minnesota governor's race in 2026, challenging incumbent Democratic Governor Tim Walz. Lindell's campaign is marked by his claims of widespread fraud in the state, particularly in relation to COVID-19 aid programs, which he intends to address as a central issue of his platform.

Democrats are expressing optimism about their prospects for retaking the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections, following a series of significant victories in 2025. With only three additional seats needed to gain control, the party is gearing up for a critical electoral battle against Republicans, particularly in the context of President Trump's influence on the political landscape.

Democrat Eileen Higgins won the Miami mayoral race, marking a significant political shift as she becomes the first Democrat to hold the position in nearly 30 years. Her victory over Republican Emilio González, who was endorsed by former President Trump, signals a rebuke of Trump's influence in a community that has been a stronghold for his supporters.

The Indiana Senate has rejected a congressional redistricting plan that was backed by former President Trump, which aimed to create two additional Republican-leaning House seats. This decision represents a significant rebuke to Trump's influence over state Republican lawmakers, who had faced pressure to adopt the new maps.

Nearly two dozen House Republicans voted alongside Democrats to nullify an executive order from President Trump that stripped collective bargaining rights from unionized federal workers. This bipartisan decision reflects a significant shift in the Republican Party's stance on labor rights and Trump's influence within the party.

Indiana Republicans in the state Senate have blocked a congressional redistricting plan backed by former President Trump, which aimed to create two additional Republican-leaning House seats. This decision marks a significant departure from the party's traditional alignment with Trump's proposals, reflecting internal divisions within the GOP in Indiana.

President Trump has announced military strikes targeting boats suspected of drug trafficking, claiming this will help reduce drug overdose deaths in the U.S. However, experts express skepticism, suggesting that such military actions may be counterproductive and could exacerbate the issue.

President Trump granted clemency to 1,600 individuals in 2025, showcasing a marked difference in his use of presidential powers compared to his first term. This clemency reflects his administration's approach to justice and rehabilitation, emphasizing a more lenient stance on certain offenses.