The Smile: 10/30

Judge strikes down Trump's Medicaid work requirement, Democrats are looking to flip two seats, and more!

October 30, 2026

Hi friend,

Happy Friday and Halloween Eve! A federal judge has struck down the Trump administration's restrictive definition of who qualifies as "medically frail" under new Medicaid work requirements. The ruling comes after 25 Democratic-led states and Washington, D.C., challenged the policy, arguing that it could strip vulnerable Americans with chronic illnesses of their health coverage.

There's even more good news today: Deb Haaland is on the verge of making history as the first Native American woman elected governor, and a group of auto collision students gave a disabled veteran an incredible gift by refurbishing a donated car!

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Linda A., who shared this beautiful photo of her cat, Kia! 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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