The Smile: 6/18

Hi friend,

Happy Thursday! A new lawsuit is challenging Donald Trump’s proposed “National Garden of American Heroes,” arguing that major changes to some of Washington’s most treasured public spaces must follow the law, respect public input, and honor the purpose of our national landmarks.

👏 Applaud the advocates, preservation groups, and community leaders working to protect public land, preserve historical integrity, and ensure that decisions affecting shared national spaces remain accountable to the American people.

There’s more good news today: federal judges continue stepping in to protect due process for immigration detainees, Georgia Republicans backed away from a gerrymandering effort amid concerns about voting rights, and Democratic socialists are gaining momentum in local elections.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

New lawsuit challenges Trump’s planned 'National Garden of American Heroes'

Senate Republicans grow increasingly frustrated with Trump blindsiding them

Baker's kids help business explode on social media

Everyone Hates JD Vance’s New Book

Bruce Springsteen, U2, Stevie Wonder, More Stars to Perform at Obama Presidential Center’s Opening

Georgia Republicans backtracked on gerrymandering because they feared a showdown over Black voting rights

Trump falls short in Georgia governor’s race: 5 takeaways from Tuesday’s primaries

Greg Abbott banned rainbow crosswalks in Texas. So El Paso wrapped Pride flags around their street lights instead

Democratic socialists are on the rise in Trump-era mayoral races

Immigration judges are denying ICE detainees release. Federal judges are stepping in.

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Vicki B., who shared this adorable photo of her dog, Lucy! 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. 🌟