The Smile: 1/15

Hi friend,

Happy Thursday! California just scored a major win for fair representation after a federal appeals court rejected Republicans’ bid to block Prop 50 — a voter-approved measure designed to counter GOP gerrymandering and protect Democrats’ path to power in the midterms.

✍️ Applaud this big victory for voters and fair maps!

And there’s more good news to celebrate today: Democrats are outlining multiple paths back to a Senate majority, Mary Peltola is already building serious momentum in Alaska, and Virginia Democrats are advancing a constitutional amendment that would give the state tools to push back when Republicans try to rig the map.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Prop 50: appeals court rejects Republican bid to block California maps

Newsom rejects Louisiana call to extradite California doctor over abortion pills

Democrats outline 'multiple paths' to a Senate majority — all through red terrain

Peltola raises $1.5M in first 24 hours of Alaska Senate bid

Trent Cares: Teen turns lifelong passion into nonprofit to help kids help others

Progressive Democratic women take the lead in reviving ‘abolish ICE’ messaging

Schumer thinks these 4 states will deliver for Dems in November

Baby has heart-melting reaction to brother's kiss

Democratic lawmakers file articles of impeachment against Kristi Noem

Virginia House passes amendment allowing redistricting to counter GOP gerrymanders

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Pam B., who shared this cute photo of a frog! If you want the chance to have your photo featured, reply to this email 😄

Thank you for reading, and we hope these articles shine a light on your day.

In solidarity,

Emily from The Smile

P.S. Know someone who could use a dose of good news? Forward this email and encourage them to subscribe to The Smile. Let’s spread the positivity together. 🌟