Vote Smart Weekly Digest
Research Highlights:
President Trump's Middle East Tour Sparks Diplomatic and Ethical Discussions: President Donald Trump embarked on a Middle East tour, visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.During the trip, he announced the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria and engaged in discussions on Iran's nuclear program and regional stability. The tour also included the signing of a strategic economic partnership with Saudi Arabia. However, the trip drew ethical scrutiny over reports that Trump intended to accept a luxury Boeing 747-8 jet from Qatar, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Source 1: CNN, Source 2: Newsmax |
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David Hogg's DNC Vice Chair Election Faces Nullification Over Procedural Issues: Gun control activist and Parkland shooting survivor David Hogg's recent election as a vice chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) is under review due to procedural violations during the voting process. The DNC's Credentials Committee recommended nullifying the election results, citing concerns unrelated to Hogg's advocacy. Nonetheless, the move has sparked discussions within the party about internal opposition to reformist voices and the broader direction of Democratic leadership. Source 1: The Hill, Source 2: Fox News |
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Supreme Court Reviews Nationwide Injunctions in Birthright Citizenship Case: On May 15, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments concerning President Donald Trump's executive order aimed at limiting birthright citizenship. The order, signed on January 20, 2025, directs federal agencies to deny automatic U.S. citizenship to children born in the country unless at least one parent is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Several federal judges issued nationwide injunctions against the order, citing potential violations of the 14th Amendment. The Supreme Court's deliberations are focusing on whether such broad injunctions are appropriate, rather than the constitutionality of the executive order itself. The outcome could significantly impact the interpretation of the 14th Amendment and the scope of judicial authority in issuing nationwide legal blocks. Source 1: Associated Press, Source 2: The New York Post |
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Research Highlights: 4/16/25
Trade Policy Adjustments and Economic Impact: This week, the U.S. government announced and then paused a series of tariffs on imports from various countries, including a 125% tariff on goods from China and other rates between 11% and 50% on imports from dozens of nations and the European Union. These tariffs, implemented last week, initially caused fluctuations in global stock markets. On April 9, 2025, most of these tariffs were paused, resulting in a rebound in stock prices. Officials have described the measures as part of a broader economic strategy, while some analysts have raised concerns about potential effects on trade and economic stability.
House Passes SAVE Act Requiring Proof of Citizenship for Voter Registration:This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which would require individuals to provide documentation verifying U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. Supporters of the legislation describe it as a safeguard against ineligible voting. Critics have raised concerns that the requirements could create administrative barriers for eligible voters. The bill now heads to the Senate, where its path forward remains uncertain.
President Trump Signs Executive Order on State Climate Regulations: President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national energy emergency and instructing the Department of Justice to evaluate whether certain state climate laws exceed federal authority. The order specifically highlights state-level policies that require fossil fuel companies to contribute financially for past greenhouse gas emissions. Reactions to the executive action vary, with some citing the importance of energy policy uniformity and others pointing to potential implications for state environmental autonomy.
Research Highlights: 4/4/25New Tariffs Announced by the Trump Administration: On April 2, 2025, the Trump administration issued an executive order imposing new tariffs on various U.S. imports. The tariffs are intended to protect domestic industries and address trade imbalances, as stated in official announcements. Financial markets responded with a significant decline in U.S. stock prices during after-hours trading, and some international leaders voiced concerns about potential economic repercussions and retaliatory measures. The policy has generated discussion but is a key economic initiative of the current administration. |
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Justice Department Adjusts Legal Case in New York: On April 2, 2025, the Justice Department, under new leadership, instructed federal prosecutors in New York to discontinue a case against an individual named Adams, who was set to face trial. This decision, initially made in February but publicized this week, resulted in resignations from some prosecutors and public debate. The action has raised questions about prosecutorial independence, with varied reactions from different groups, some seeing it as a procedural correction and others as potential political influence. |
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Democratic Candidates Win Several Elections: This week, Democratic candidates secured victories in multiple state and local races. On April 1, 2025, Susan Crawford, a candidate supported by Democrats, won a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court in a closely watched contest. Other Democratic successes included a House vote where a Republican proposal on proxy voting for new parents was defeated. These results indicate shifts in political support at various levels, though their broader implications are still being assessed.Source: 1: Fox News, Source 2: CNN |
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Research Highlights: 3/29/25
Senators Request Investigation into Defense Communication Leak: A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has formally requested that the Department of Defense’s inspector general investigate a recent leak involving a Signal group chat that included senior defense officials. The chat reportedly shared sensitive information about potential U.S. military action in Yemen, and an outside journalist was unintentionally included in the group. Lawmakers expressed concern about potential breaches of national security and are seeking clarity on how the information was shared and who was responsible. |
Vice President Vance’s Greenland Visit Raises International Concerns: Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to visit Greenland’s Pituffik Space Base to discuss Arctic security issues. The visit has drawn concern from Danish and Greenlandic officials, who have expressed apprehension about the timing and nature of the trip. It comes amid ongoing discussions about Greenland’s governance and follows past U.S. interest in the region, which has affected diplomatic relations with Denmark.Source 1: CNN, Source 2: Newsmax |
Executive Order Implements New Federal Election Requirements: On March 25, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order revising federal election procedures. It mandates documentary proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration using the national mail form and requires all federal election ballots to be received by Election Day. Federal agencies are directed to help states verify voter eligibility using immigration and Social Security databases. The order instructs the Election Assistance Commission to update voting system standards to require paper records and limit barcode-based tabulation. It also prioritizes enforcement of laws barring non-citizens from voting and foreign nationals from contributing to elections. |
Research Highlights: 3/21/25
President Trump Signs Executive Order on Department of Education:
President Trump signed an executive, March 20, 2025, to phase out the U.S. Department of Education, shifting its responsibilities to state governments. Supporters argue that this move will give states greater control over education policies, while opponents contend that it could reduce federal oversight and impact funding for certain programs. While the executive order sets the process in motion, full implementation would require congressional approval, including a 60-vote majority in the Senate.
Federal Judge Blocks Executive Order on Transgender Military Service:
A federal judge has temporarily blocked an executive order that would restrict transgender individuals from serving in the military. The ruling states that the policy may violate constitutional protections, and the judge has given the administration three days to appeal. The decision is part of ongoing legal challenges regarding military service policies.
Use of Alien Enemies Act for Deportations Faces Legal Challenge:
The administration has invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to expedite deportations of individuals allegedly linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order to halt the deportations, including a directive for any planes in transit to return to the U.S. However, the administration proceeded with the deportations, stating that the verbal directive was not legally binding. The situation has raised legal and constitutional questions regarding executive authority, judicial oversight, and immigration enforcement.
Research Highlights: 3/17/25
Senate Confirms New Antitrust Division Head: On March 11, 2025, the U.S. Senate voted 78-19 to confirm Gail Slater as the leader of the Justice Department’s antitrust division. Slater, who has a background in technology and media law, highlighted a focus on corporate consolidation, including in the technology sector. Her confirmation sets the direction for policies related to competition and market oversight.
Source 1: CCIA
Tariff Adjustments Impact U.S.-Canada Trade and Stock Market: This week, tariffs on Canadian metal imports were raised following Ontario’s decision to add a surcharge on U.S. electricity exports. The tariff increase was reversed on March 11 after discussions with Canada. On March 10, the S&P 500 fell by 2.7% with market losses estimated at $4 trillion. These developments occurred alongside conversations about trade and economic conditions.
Federal Judge Orders Reinstatement of Terminated Employees: On March 12, 2025, a U.S. judge directed that thousands of probationary federal employees, recently let go from various government agencies, be reinstated. The ruling came after actions to decrease the number of federal workers. It involves legal considerations about the dismissal process for probationary staff and could affect plans related to government staffing levels.
Research Highlights: 3/13/25
President Trump Signs Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language: On March 1, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order officially designating English as the national language of the United States. It rescinds Executive Order 13166 (2000), which required federal agencies to provide services in multiple languages for individuals with limited English proficiency. The order emphasizes the role of a common language in fostering national unity, streamlining government operations, and promoting civic engagement among all citizens.
Supreme Court Rules on Foreign Aid Funding: On March 5, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a 5-4 decision requiring the federal government to release approximately $2 billion in previously frozen foreign aid funds. The majority upheld a lower court’s ruling, directing the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to proceed with the disbursement. The decision followed legal challenges over the executive branch's authority to withhold these funds. In the dissenting opinion, Justice Samuel Alito raised concerns about the ruling’s financial implications.
President Trump Delivers Address to Congress: On March 4, 2025, President Donald Trump delivered a speech to a joint session of Congress, outlining his administration’s policy priorities and key initiatives. He announced the United States' withdrawal from certain international agreements, including the Paris Climate Accord and the World Health Organization, as well as plans to implement new tariffs and review control of the Panama Canal. The address received mixed reactions, with some lawmakers expressing opposition through protests, including walkouts and visible demonstrations.
Research Highlights: 3/10/25
President Trump Signs Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language: On March 1, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order officially designating English as the national language of the United States. It rescinds Executive Order 13166 (2000), which required federal agencies to provide services in multiple languages for individuals with limited English proficiency. The order emphasizes the role of a common language in fostering national unity, streamlining government operations, and promoting civic engagement among all citizens.
Supreme Court Rules on Foreign Aid Funding: On March 5, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a 5-4 decision requiring the federal government to release approximately $2 billion in previously frozen foreign aid funds. The majority upheld a lower court’s ruling, directing the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to proceed with the disbursement. The decision followed legal challenges over the executive branch's authority to withhold these funds. In the dissenting opinion, Justice Samuel Alito raised concerns about the ruling’s financial implications.
President Trump Delivers Address to Congress: On March 4, 2025, President Donald Trump delivered a speech to a joint session of Congress, outlining his administration’s policy priorities and key initiatives. He announced the United States' withdrawal from certain international agreements, including the Paris Climate Accord and the World Health Organization, as well as plans to implement new tariffs and review control of the Panama Canal. The address received mixed reactions, with some lawmakers expressing opposition through protests, including walkouts and visible demonstrations.
Research Highlights: 2/28/25
EPA Proposes Repeal of Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under Administrator Lee Zeldin, has suggested reconsidering the scientific determination that greenhouse gases pose a threat to public health. This move could lead to significant alterations in existing climate regulations.
President Trump Announces 25% Tariffs on Mexican and Canadian Imports: On February 27, 2025, the U.S. government announced that a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada will take effect on March 4. This policy is part of a broader approach that includes increasing tariffs on Chinese imports and restructuring federal agencies. The announcement has generated varied responses, with some raising concerns about potential economic and trade implications.
Research Highlights: 2/27/25
- Pentagon Budget Reduction and IRS Workforce Changes: The Department of Defense has been directed to plan for an 8% annual budget reduction over the next five years as part of efforts to adjust federal spending priorities. Additionally, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is preparing for workforce reductions, affecting thousands of probationary employees during the current tax-filing season, following guidance from the Office of Personnel Management. These changes are intended to align with broader federal efficiency initiatives, with ongoing discussions about their potential effects on operations and services.
- Senate Confirmation of FBI Director: The U.S. Senate confirmed Kash Patel as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with a 51-49 vote. Patel, who has held previous roles in the Justice Department and executive branch, is expected to oversee changes within the bureau. His confirmation has generated debate over his qualifications and the potential implications for the agency’s future direction.
- Supreme Court Review of Agency Head Dismissal: The U.S. Supreme Court has been asked to review a case concerning the removal of Hampton Dellinger, head of the Office of the Special Counsel (OSC), an independent agency responsible for protecting government whistleblowers. The request follows a federal judge’s decision to temporarily block the dismissal, raising legal questions about the president’s authority to remove leaders of independent agencies. The case could have broader implications for executive influence over federal regulatory bodies.
Research Highlights: 2/22/25
- Pentagon Budget Reduction and IRS Workforce Changes: The Department of Defense has been directed to plan for an 8% annual budget reduction over the next five years as part of efforts to adjust federal spending priorities. Additionally, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is preparing for workforce reductions, affecting thousands of probationary employees during the current tax-filing season, following guidance from the Office of Personnel Management. These changes are intended to align with broader federal efficiency initiatives, with ongoing discussions about their potential effects on operations and services.
- Senate Confirmation of FBI Director: The U.S. Senate confirmed Kash Patel as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with a 51-49 vote. Patel, who has held previous roles in the Justice Department and executive branch, is expected to oversee changes within the bureau. His confirmation has generated debate over his qualifications and the potential implications for the agency’s future direction.
- Supreme Court Review of Agency Head Dismissal: The U.S. Supreme Court has been asked to review a case concerning the removal of Hampton Dellinger, head of the Office of the Special Counsel (OSC), an independent agency responsible for protecting government whistleblowers. The request follows a federal judge’s decision to temporarily block the dismissal, raising legal questions about the president’s authority to remove leaders of independent agencies. The case could have broader implications for executive influence over federal regulatory bodies.
Research Highlights:
- Congressional Agreement on Government Funding: Congress approved a short-term funding measure to avoid a government shutdown, extending federal operations for three months. The agreement ensures that essential services and programs continue uninterrupted. While lawmakers had discussions on additional measures related to various priorities, the funding package focused solely on maintaining government operations.
- Vice President Encourages Youth Civic Engagement: Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a speech at Prince George's Community College in Maryland, urging young people to remain engaged in the political process. She emphasized the importance of active participation in democracy and encouraged attendees to persevere despite challenges or recent election outcomes. The Vice President did not address her future political plans during the event.
- Public Concerns Over Economic Outlook: A recent AP-NORC poll shows that many Americans are concerned about the economy as the year concludes. Despite indicators such as low unemployment and a rising stock market, a significant portion of respondents described the economic situation as poor. The survey also highlighted differing perspectives, with optimism and concerns varying among individuals based on their outlook for the upcoming year.
Key Votes: Congressional and State
Congressional Legislation
- Congress - House passed HR 7673 - Liberty in Laundry Act
- Congress - Senate cloture not invoked PN 1789 - Nomination of Lauren McGarity McFerran, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of five years expiring December 16, 2029
- Congress - House passed S 4199 - Judicial Understaffing Delays Getting Emergencies Solved (JUDGES) Act