The Smile: 10/1

Democrats hold the line for health care, judges rebuke Trump’s unlawful actions, Fat Bear Week heats up, and more good news!

October 01, 2025

Hi friend,

Happy Wednesday! The government has officially shut down — and Democrats are standing strong in a righteous fight for health care and working families. With Republicans blocking the extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits and refusing to restore critical health care funding, Democrats are making clear: they won’t let millions of Americans lose coverage or face skyrocketing costs.

And in more good news: judges are blocking Trump’s unlawful deportations and job cuts at Voice of America, progressive leaders are laying out a path forward at the “Persuasion 2025” summit, and Fat Bear Week is down to the final four contenders.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Karen W., who shared this adorable photo of her cat, Squeak! 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. 🌟

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