The Smile: 8/5

Maryland takes first step towards redistricting, Trump's DOJ still struggles, and more!

August 05, 2026

Hi friend,

Happy Wednesday! Maryland lawmakers have taken an important first step toward strengthening fair representation by approving a constitutional amendment that would let voters decide whether to clarify the state's congressional redistricting rules. The measure now heads to the Senate, and if approved there, Maryland voters will have the final say on how future congressional maps can be drawn.

There's more good news today: a federal appeals court protected billions in clean energy investments, states are fighting to protect the privacy of families receiving public benefits, and new forecasts show Democrats favored to flip a Texas House seat that Donald Trump carried by 18 points.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Donna L., who shared this pretty flower from New Jersey! 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. 🌟

Reply

or to participate.