The Smile: 12/8

Lawmakers demand transparency on deadly strikes, judges curb Trump’s overreach, and big wins for fair maps and school mental health funding!

December 08, 2025

Hi friend,

Happy Monday! Democratic lawmakers are demanding transparency and accountability after alarming reports that the Trump administration authorized a “double tap” strike that killed unarmed survivors clinging to a capsized boat.

And there’s even more good news to start your week: a federal judge appears skeptical of Trump’s continued command over California’s National Guard, the Ninth Circuit blocked his bid to slash school mental health funding, and Utah just beat back a GOP attempt to block a fairer congressional map for 2026. 

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Ceila L., who shared this adorable photo of a puppy! 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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