The Smile: 10/13

Judge halts Trump's advertisements, GOP group spends on the wrong Portland, and more!

October 13, 2026

Hi friend,

Happy Tuesday! A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from using taxpayer dollars to air pro-Trump advertisements ahead of the November midterms. The ruling follows a lawsuit in which Judge Jennifer Rochon found that the groups were likely to succeed in their challenge to the administration's use of federal funds for political advertising.

There's even more good news today: A judge has halted tree removal at a Washington, D.C., golf course Trump wants to expand, a Kansas City nonprofit is transforming vacant lots into free fruit orchards across the country, and a teenager with a spinal cord injury has taken on the Chicago Marathon!

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Renee W., who shared this adorable photo of her cat, Earl Gray! 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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