Graham says Trump ready for Maduro’s fall, will brief Congress on Venezuela strikes

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is turning a jab from President Trump about her IQ into a fundraising opportunity. After Trump referred to her as having a 'low IQ' during a press briefing, Ocasio-Cortez has leveraged the moment to rally support and donations. This not only highlights her resilience in the face of criticism but also showcases her ability to engage her base effectively. Fundraising off such remarks can energize her supporters and strengthen her political position.

In a significant diplomatic move, China's President Xi Jinping is urging the United States to take a stand against Taiwan's independence. This development is crucial as it highlights the ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan, and the potential implications for U.S.-China relations. The situation is delicate, as any shift in U.S. policy could escalate tensions in the region and impact global stability.

The recent government shutdown is wreaking havoc on small business owners, with reports indicating that 320 companies are losing access to crucial funding every day. This situation has prompted industry leaders to urgently appeal to Congress for a 'clean continuing resolution' to mitigate the financial damage. The shutdown not only threatens the livelihoods of countless entrepreneurs but also poses a significant risk to the overall economy, highlighting the urgent need for legislative action.

The president of the American Federation of Government Employees, representing over 800,000 federal workers, has called on Congress to end the government shutdown, stating that both political parties have made their points. This statement highlights the ongoing struggle between political factions and the impact of the shutdown on federal employees, emphasizing the need for resolution to restore normalcy and support for those affected.

Recent comments from President Trump about potentially seeking a third term in office have raised significant concerns, particularly among Democratic leaders. His remarks, which many view as unconstitutional, have sparked a wave of criticism, highlighting the ongoing tensions in US politics. This situation matters because it reflects the broader implications of Trump's influence on the political landscape and the potential challenges to democratic norms.

Californians are set to vote on redistricting new congressional districts next month, and their decision may be influenced by their opinions on Governor Gavin Newsom's recent confrontations with President Trump. This vote is significant as it could reshape political representation in the state, reflecting the sentiments of voters towards key political figures.

The discussion around Donald Trump's potential third term raises significant constitutional concerns, as the 22nd Amendment clearly limits presidents to two elected terms. Despite this, Trump's allies are exploring possible challenges or loopholes to circumvent this rule. This matters because it not only questions the integrity of the electoral process but also sets a concerning precedent for future political maneuvers that could undermine democratic principles.

Marc Short, former chief of staff to Mike Pence, criticized Donald Trump's reaction to a Canadian ad featuring Ronald Reagan, calling it indicative of an 'upside-down world.' During an appearance on NBC's 'Meet the Press,' Short questioned the relevance of Ontario airing Reagan's ads, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. This matters as it reflects the ongoing political tensions and differing perspectives on international relations, especially in the context of U.S. politics.

In a promising trend for Democrats, New Jersey's early voting numbers show that they have outpaced Republicans significantly, with a difference of about 140,000 votes in 2024 and 16,000 in 2022. This shift is particularly noteworthy considering the Republicans had a slight edge in 2021. The continued support for candidates like Mikie Sherrill suggests a growing enthusiasm among voters, which could have important implications for the upcoming elections.

Former NFL star Antonio Gates has firmly denied any connections to a rigged poker game amid a broader gambling scandal involving current and former NBA players. This denial is significant as it highlights the ongoing scrutiny athletes face regarding gambling activities, especially in light of recent allegations that could tarnish reputations and careers.

A storm chaser has captured breathtaking images of the eye of Hurricane Melissa, which is expected to hit Jamaica as a Category 5 storm. Despite the fierce 175 mph winds, the photos reveal clear blue skies above the ominous clouds, showcasing the storm's beauty and power. This event is significant as it highlights the dual nature of hurricanes, being both awe-inspiring and dangerous, reminding us of the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Jennifer Lawrence recently opened up about her plans to undergo a breast augmentation after the birth of her second child, expressing that her body hasn't quite bounced back as she hoped. She also shared her thoughts on cosmetic fillers, explaining why she prefers to avoid them. This candid discussion highlights the pressures many new mothers face regarding body image and the choices they make to feel confident in their own skin.

A group of New Yorkers has taken legal action against the state elections board, claiming that the current congressional map unfairly undermines the voting power of Black and Latino residents in Staten Island. This lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about representation and equity in electoral processes, particularly for marginalized communities. As the battle over House maps intensifies, the outcome could significantly impact future elections and the political landscape in New York.

In a recent opinion piece, critics have pointed fingers at FDA officials Makary and Prasad for their roles in the controversial decision to halt a promising melanoma drug. This decision has raised serious concerns about accountability in the FDA, especially when lives are at stake. The implications of this situation are significant, as it not only affects patients seeking effective treatments but also shakes public trust in regulatory bodies.