The Smile: 8/5

Governor Pritzker protects Texas Democrats, kids raise thousands for St. Jude, and a school renaming honors civil rights history.

August 05, 2025

Hi friend,

Happy Tuesday! Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is stepping up in a big way, vowing to protect Texas Democrats who fled their state to block Trump-backed efforts to gerrymander congressional maps and silence voters. As threats of arrest and fines fly, Pritzker is standing firm, calling their stand “a righteous act of courage.”

And in more good news: a lemonade stand raises $2,000 for St. Jude, a Nashville school honors a civil rights leader, and other governors nationwide are standing behind Texas Democrats.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from DeWaine and Jane T., who shared this beautiful photo from Kea’au, HI! 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. 🌟

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