The Smile: 10/2

Hi friend,

Happy Thursday! In a big win for fairness and public safety, a federal judge has blocked Donald Trump’s attempt to slash $233 million in emergency preparedness and counterterrorism grants for Democratic-led states. The court’s ruling ensures critical resources — from bomb squads to disaster response — remain intact and protected from partisan power plays.

✍️ Add your name to applaud this decision and celebrate the defense of disaster relief!

And in more good news: Democrats are holding strong in the shutdown fight to protect health care, unions are suing to block Trump’s unlawful plan to fire federal workers, and a judge ordered the immediate release of a DACA recipient in El Paso.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Trump-Appointed Judge Blocks Major $233m Cuts for Democrat States

‘A righteous fight’: Democrats hold fast on healthcare but also use shutdown to pummel Trump

'Getting my self-confidence back': Patient receives free surgery for a new smile

Federal Reserve governor will keep job for now despite Trump’s bid to remove her

Donald Trump’s Approval Rating Falls With Republicans

Judge orders the immediate release of El Paso DACA recipient

20 state AGs sue Trump administration over rule that bars aid to some sex abuse and rape survivors

Florida Dem again files bill to create database to help in voter-rights restoration

Girls with Leukemia become best friends during cancer treatments

Unions sue to block mass firings during shutdown

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Mitchell D., who shared this beautiful photo of a black-crowned night heron! 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. 🌟