The Smile: 8/29

Hi friend,

Happy Friday! In a major win for press freedom and democracy, a federal judge has blocked Kari Lake, acting on behalf of the Trump administration, from unlawfully firing Voice of America Director Michael Abramowitz. The ruling ensures that VOA’s leadership, and its mission of independent journalism, remain protected from political interference. 

✍️ Add your name to celebrate this ruling, stand with VOA journalists, and defend press freedom from Trump’s dangerous attempts to control the media!

And in more good news: Arizona courts rejected Republicans’ latest attack on mail voting, California’s Supreme Court shut down another GOP redistricting challenge, and federal judges delivered more blows to Trump’s attempts to undermine independent institutions.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

US Fed Governor Lisa Cook sues Trump over his attempt to fire her

'Fine for what'? Newsom doubles down on refusal to give in to Trump's UCLA demands

Arizona Court Rejects GOP Lawsuit Targeting Mail Voting

Democrats probe Trump administration's retreat from public corruption cases

Trump's Approval Rating Hits New Second Term Low, Poll Shows

Democrat Leads Republican Rivals by Double Digits in Deep Red Georgia Race

Republican Hit With Furious Boos at Town Hall Disaster in JD Vance’s Backyard

Metro Richmond Zoo welcomes 6 cheetah cubs

California Supreme Court Rejects Latest GOP Redistricting Challenge

Federal judge bars Kari Lake from ousting Voice of America’s director

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Jodi R., who shared this cute photo of her cat, Phoebe! 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. 🌟