The Smile: 7/28

Hi friend,

Happy Monday! A federal judge just threw out Trump’s attempt to force Illinois to help with mass deportations — ruling that states have the constitutional right to choose sanctuary, not fear. It’s a major win for immigrant rights and state autonomy.

✍️ Add your name to applaud this ruling and stand with states defending their communities from Trump’s deportation agenda!

And in more good news: the Education Department just released $5 billion in long-delayed school funding, Democrats are going all-in to protect voting rights and Medicaid, and a new bill could finally curb the cruel primate pet trade.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Judge throws out Trump’s lawsuit against Illinois over sanctuary policies

Education Department releases $5 billion to schools after monthlong hold

Volunteers pack nearly 50,000 meals for Central Kentucky families

Texas Democrats escalate fight against Republican-led redistricting efforts with Pritzker, Newsom meetings

Primate pet ownership fuels a brutal industry. This bill could slow it down

Democrats use new tactic to highlight Trump’s gutting of Medicaid: billboards in the rural US

Supreme Court blocks ruling that would undermine the Voting Rights Act

Elon Musk is threatening to put third-party candidates on the ballot. Democrats are giddy.

Women embark on seven-week biking journey to stand up against sex trafficking

Former Jan. 6 prosecutor and ex-DOJ employees sue Trump administration over firings

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Deb W., who shared this adorable photo of her dogs, Gracie, Piper, and Indie! 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. 🌟