The Smile: 10/24

Hi friend,

Happy Friday! Virginia Democrats are taking a bold stand to defend democracy and fair representation. In response to MAGA-led gerrymandering in states like Texas and North Carolina, Democratic leaders are planning to redraw Virginia’s congressional maps — ensuring that every voter’s voice counts and that power stays with the people, not partisan politicians.

✍️ Add your name to applaud Virginia Democrats for standing up to Republican map-rigging, protecting fair elections, and fighting for representation that reflects the will of the people.

And in more good news: Trump just scrapped plans to deploy federal troops to San Francisco, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker launched a new accountability commission in response to Trump’s raids, and House Democrats are investigating Trump’s attempt to make taxpayers pay him $230 million.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Virginia Democrats plan to redraw the state's congressional maps

Trump cancels plans to send federal troops to San Francisco for immigration crackdown

The lone woman who staged a ‘No Kings’ protest in small-town West Virginia

3-year-old born deaf can hear 2 years after breakthrough gene therapy treatment

Maine immigrant rights groups launch statewide ICE watch hotline

Pritzker creates ‘accountability’ commission in response to Trump’s Chicago raids

CNN Data Guru Hammers Trump With Brutal Polls

Mike Johnson won't swear in Adelita Grijalva. So we're suing.

Music meets medicine as Parkinson's patient plays clarinet during brain surgery

House Democrats launch probe into Trump’s proposed $230 million DOJ compensation

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Jane K., who shared this powerful photo from the No Kings protest in Elgin, IL! 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. 🌟