The Smile: 3/18

Juliana Stratton wins Democratic Senate primary in Illinois, judge orders VOA staff back to work, and more.

March 18, 2026

Hi friend,

Happy Wednesday! Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton just made history by winning the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate in Illinois. In a state where Democrats are strongly favored to hold the seat in November, Stratton is now likely on track to become Illinois’ next senator — and help bring the total number of Black senators serving in the U.S. Senate to six.

There’s more momentum today: Attorney General Pam Bondi was subpoenaed over the Epstein files, Arizona’s attorney general filed criminal charges against Kalshi over ‘illegal gambling,’ new polling shows Americans want a crackdown in corporate profiteering, and a new wine label is promoting workers’ rights!

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Jay K. of Pennsylvania, who shared this recent photo from the Philadelphia Flower Show! 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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