The Smile: 12/16

Hi friend,

Happy Tuesday! The National Trust for Historic Preservation is taking a stand against Donald Trump’s attempt to bulldoze history — suing to halt his unauthorized White House ballroom project and the demolition of the East Wing without public review or congressional approval. 

✍️ Applaud this bold defense of history, transparency, and the rule of law!

And there’s more good news: Oregon and other states are challenging Trump’s illegal $100,000 visa fee, a Wisconsin judge ruled Trump aides must face trial in the fake elector scheme, and U.S. diplomats are fighting back against mass firings in court. 

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

National Trust sues Trump to halt construction on ballroom project

Oregon sues Trump admin over new $100,000 fee for skilled worker visa program

Promising results emerge from blood tests that screen for 50 cancers at once

50 years ago, Minneapolis redefined LGBTQ+ rights

Wisconsin judge rules Trump aides must face trial in 2020 fake elector scheme

Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott gave $7.1 billion to nonprofits in 2025, a major increase

‘Our message is simple’: Democrats unite as GOP again struggles to address health care

Rising Phoenix program helps UWGB student get degree 6 months after high school graduation

Rachel Maddow on standing up to government lies and her Walter Cronkite Award

U.S. Diplomats Take Trump to Court Over Mass Firings

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Joanne C., who shared this adorable photo of her cat! 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. 🌟