The Smile: 5/4

Hi friend,

Happy Monday! Voters in a longtime Republican stronghold in Texas just delivered a major upset, electing a Democrat-backed mayor and signaling growing momentum for change in places once thought out of reach.

👏 Applaud this win for progress and grassroots organizing.

There’s more good news today: courts are protecting vulnerable communities, inspiring stories are lifting spirits, and Democrats are continuing to build energy heading into key elections.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Democrats Win in Republican Stronghold in Texas

‘We’re gonna hang strong’: Black women in Congress face the next voting rights fight

4-year-old piano prodigy already perfecting the tunes

Trump’s disapproval rating hits record high, new poll shows

At 82, she's jumping into the fight over immigration. Here's why

A New Climate Democracy Is Taking On the Petrostates

Democrats seize on MAHA’s growing frustration with GOP

Golden Tempo claims 152nd Kentucky Derby; Cherie DeVaux makes history as first female trainer to win

Louisiana Drowns in Lawsuits Over Republicans’ Election Power Grab

Judge blocks Trump from ending temporary protected status for Yemen

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Patricia G., who shared this beautiful photo below! 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. 🌟