The Smile: 10/16

Hi friend,

Happy Thursday! A federal judge just delivered a major win for workers and the rule of law — blocking Donald Trump’s plan to lay off thousands of federal employees during the shutdown. Judge Susan Illston ruled that Trump’s attempt to fire public servants was illegal and arbitrary, reminding the country that “you can’t do this in a nation of laws.” 

✍️ Add your name to applaud this ruling, stand with federal workers, and defend the rule of law against Trump’s reckless shutdown tactics.

And in more good news: Democrats are turning up the pressure on Speaker Johnson to seat Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva, a judge extended the ban on Trump’s National Guard deployment to Portland, and Chicago courts blocked ICE from making arrests at courthouses.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Judge blocks Trump's layoffs during shutdown, calling them illegal

Democrats ramp up pressure on Speaker Johnson to seat Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva

Newsom asks House panel to probe Young Republicans group chat

County judge in Chicago area bars ICE from arresting people at court

Brown University rejects Trump proposal to overhaul policies for preferential funding

'A BIG GIFT': Boca Raton man raises $4,000 to help homeless man find housing

Donald Trump’s Approval Rating Dips With Republicans

Man proposes with the help of newborn's onesie

MAGA Rage at “No Kings” Boils Over—and It Quickly Backfires on Trump

Federal judge extends temporary orders barring Trump administration from deploying National Guard to Portland

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Maddie G., who shared the cutest photo of her dog, Louie! 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. 🌟