Good morning everyone, and happy No Kings Day 3.0.
I won’t be on the ground today as I’m still at the hospital with mom and baby, but I’ll be recapping the marches this afternoon. Please send any photos or videos if you’re attending, and let me know if you’re out there marching. In other news, House and Senate Republicans remain divided, and there is still no clear end in sight to the ongoing government shutdown. Meanwhile, the war in Iran continues to expand, with a new group now entering the conflict.
I also heard from some of you overnight that my videos are not showing up on certain platforms, and others mentioned seeing AI-generated fake videos of me. This Substack is the one place where I have full control over my reporting without algorithms deciding who gets to see it.
Here’s the news:
- A Google Maps “fake edit” briefly caused phones to display “Epstein Island” when calling the White House switchboard, affecting some Google Pixel users before it was quickly corrected and the responsible user blocked. This is a screenshot from the Washington Post:
- Congressman Thomas Massie called out Kash Patel and the White House after it was revealed, by Iranian-backed hackers, that Patel had an account on a p*rn site:
- The new White House app settings reportedly request access to precise user location, biometric fingerprint hardware, and the ability to modify stored files, raising potential privacy and security concerns among users.
- Millions of people are expected to participate in a third wave of “No Kings” protests against Donald Trump, with over 3,000 events planned across the U.S. and globally. Organizers say it could be the largest nonviolent protest day in American history, driven by opposition to policies on immigration, the Iran war, and rising living costs. The movement has gained traction across both Democratic and Republican-leaning areas, reflecting broad dissatisfaction. Protest leaders emphasize peaceful demonstrations despite concerns about potential clashes with federal authorities.
- Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to march in London in what organizers say could be one of the largest anti–far-right demonstrations in UK history, with participants rallying against racism, division, and the growing influence of extremist politics. The protest, organized by the Together Alliance and supported by unions and public figures, reflects rising concern about the normalization of far-right ideas in mainstream discourse. Demonstrators cite issues like anti-immigrant rhetoric and increasing racism in schools and society as key motivations for mobilizing.
- The march also coincides with other major demonstrations, including pro-Palestine rallies, highlighting broader global political tensions and activism. Organizers emphasize unity and peaceful protest, aiming to send a message that most people oppose hate and division despite recent far-right momentum. Police have prepared a significant security presence as multiple large gatherings converge in central London.
- House Republicans passed a short-term Department of Homeland Security funding bill, but it is expected to fail in the Senate, prolonging the ongoing shutdown standoff. Democrats have vowed to block the measure over disagreements on immigration enforcement funding, particularly related to ICE. Meanwhile, Donald Trump signed an order to ensure TSA workers receive pay despite the funding lapse, as airport disruptions continue. The situation reflects deep partisan divisions and little progress toward resolving the broader funding crisis.
- Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security to immediately pay TSA workers amid a prolonged funding lapse that left many without pay for weeks. The move comes as negotiations in Congress remain stalled, contributing to staffing shortages, long airport lines, and financial hardship for employees. Officials say nearly 500 TSA workers have quit and billions in wages have been missed, underscoring the severity of the crisis.
- Here’s what one Republican was complaining about:
- Donald Trump said, “I hang out with losers because it makes me feel better. I hate guys that are very, very successful and you have to listen to their success stories. I like people that like to listen to my success.”
- Financial markets are declining sharply amid the Iran war, with major indexes falling into correction territory and oil prices surging above $100 per barrel, signaling growing economic strain. Analysts say Donald Trump’s ability to influence or stabilize markets through statements has weakened, as investors now demand concrete outcomes rather than rhetoric. The conflict has disrupted global energy flows and raised concerns about sustained inflation and higher interest rates. Experts warn that even if fighting stops soon, economic impacts could linger and limit a full market recovery.
- Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen launched a missile attack on Israel, marking their entry into the widening regional conflict and raising fears of further escalation. While the direct military impact may be limited, experts warn the group could significantly disrupt global trade by targeting key shipping routes like the Red Sea. The conflict is already straining global energy markets after disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, signaling a shift from a localized war to a broader regional and economic crisis.
- Israel’s expanding military campaign in southern Lebanon is raising fears it could replicate its Gaza model, with widespread destruction, mass displacement, and plans for a long-term security zone. Satellite imagery shows intensified strikes on infrastructure like bridges and the buildup of military bases, while over 1 million people have been displaced. Aid groups and U.N. officials warn of a worsening humanitarian crisis and potential violations of international law. The escalation has heightened concerns about a prolonged occupation and broader regional instability.
- Donald Trump said, “You can ask me anything you want. You can talk sex, whatever the hell you want. I am here for you.”
- The U.S. embassy in Mexico sparked backlash after posting an AI-generated video encouraging migrants to “self-deport,” featuring a stylized musical performance urging people to return to their home countries. Critics, including officials and social media users, condemned the video as discriminatory and inappropriate, with some calling it propaganda. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions over U.S. immigration messaging and policies abroad.
- A California dairy, Raw Farm, has been linked to an E. coli outbreak tied to raw cheddar cheese that has sickened nine people across three states, with more than half of the cases involving children under five. Three people have been hospitalized, including one who developed a serious kidney condition, raising concerns about the severity of the outbreak. The Food and Drug Administration identified the farm as the likely source, though no recall has been issued and the company disputes the link.
- A school bus crash in Tennessee killed two students and injured at least seven others after a collision involving multiple vehicles, including a dump truck and an SUV. Around 25 students and five adults were on board during a field trip when the accident occurred, and several victims were airlifted to hospitals. Officials say the cause of the crash is still under investigation as the community grapples with what authorities called a devastating tragedy.
See you soon.
— Aaron
Loading comments...