The Smile: 7/15

Hi friend,

Happy Wednesday! Senate Democrats have blocked a massive defense policy bill, insisting that Congress cannot simply move forward with record military spending while the Trump administration expands U.S. involvement in Iran without meaningful oversight or accountability.

👏 Applaud the senators standing up for Congress's constitutional role and demanding accountability before expanding military conflict!

There's more good news today: the Trump administration has backed away from its attempt to impose a nationwide ban on gender-affirming care in hospitals, the Justice Department is now 0-15 in its effort to seize state voter rolls, and environmental groups are fighting to protect the Endangered Species Act.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Senate Dems block defense bill in protest of Iran war

The nation’s largest school system is expanding special education for its youngest learners

Mahmoud Khalil sues Trump officials and pro-Israel groups over ‘conspiracy’ to target him

E. Jean Carroll receives $5.6 million from Trump in sexual abuse and defamation case

Trump backs off attempt to nationally ban hospitals from providing trans care

Graham’s death, McConnell’s absence wreak havoc on GOP agenda

DOJ is 0-15 after GOP-appointed judges toss voter roll lawsuits against Virginia, New Mexico

House passes bill to make daylight saving time permanent

Elon Musk likely broke the law by giving voters $1 million, Wisconsin board says

Environmental groups sue government to stop a big change to the Endangered Species Act

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Connie G., who shared this cute dog from a No Kings rally in Clarkston, WA! 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. 🌟