Today’s Sponsor: Ground News
Twelve Conversational Headlines From The Past Week:
- TRUMP DEMANDS ROBERTS REIN IN FEDERAL JUDGES: President Trump criticized federal judges for blocking his agenda, including ending birthright citizenship, calling them “radical left lunatics.” He urged Chief Justice John Roberts to rein them in. Roberts responded by defending judicial independence and rejecting Trump’s call for impeachment as a solution to policy disagreements.
- POPE FRANCIS DISCHARGED AFTER PNEUMONIA HOSPITALIZATION: After battling double pneumonia, Pope Francis was released from a Rome hospital and made a brief public appearance. The 88-year-old pontiff had been admitted in mid-February and experienced multiple respiratory crises. He thanked supporters and returned to the Vatican to continue recovery.
- NATIONWIDE RALLIES PROTEST POSTAL SERVICE PRIVATIZATION PLAN: Widespread protests erupted across the U.S. over proposals to cut funding and privatize the Postal Service. Critics say privatization would hurt rural areas and raise costs, while supporters argue it would improve efficiency. The issue is sparking heated debate in Congress.
- TRUMP WITHDRAWS STEFANIK’S UN NOMINATION TO HOLD HOUSE MAJORITY: President Trump pulled Representative Elise Stefanik’s nomination for U.N. Ambassador to preserve the GOP’s slim majority in the House. Stefanik will remain in Congress, where she plays a key leadership role.
- DEFENSE SECRETARY ACCIDENTALLY LEAKS YEMEN STRIKE PLANS: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth mistakenly added The Atlantic editor to a private Signal chat detailing military strikes in Yemen. The messages contained sensitive information, prompting an investigation and bipartisan concern over national security protocol.
- SNOW WHITE UNDERWHELMS AS ALTO KNIGHTS BOMBS: Disney’s “Snow White” opened with $43 million, falling short of box office expectations. Meanwhile, Warner Bros.’ “Alto Knights,” starring Robert De Niro, bombed with just $3.17 million, marking one of the weakest major studio openings in years.
- LUIGI MANGIONE FOUND WITH NOTES HIDDEN IN SOCKS DURING TRIAL: Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, was caught hiding handwritten notes in his socks during a court appearance. Prosecutors say this violated special court protocols and raised serious security concerns.
- TRUMP IMPOSES 25% TARIFF ON FOREIGN AUTOS: President Trump announced a 25% tariff on imported cars and parts to promote U.S. manufacturing. Critics warn it could raise vehicle prices and hurt jobs. The move has sparked fears of a new global trade war.
- NBC WANTS $7M FOR 2026 SUPER BOWL AD SLOTS: NBC is asking $7 million for 30-second commercial slots for the 2026 Super Bowl. The price hike reflects continued demand for ad space during the highly watched event. Advertisers are weighing the cost against the potential reach.
- TRUMP ORDERS SMITHSONIAN TO REMOVE ‘DIVISIVE NARRATIVES’: Trump signed an order directing the Smithsonian to cut exhibits that promote what he calls “race-centered narratives” or “improper ideology.” Critics say it limits historical accuracy and academic freedom, while supporters see it as restoring patriotic storytelling.
- 23ANDME FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY, CEO STEPS DOWN: DNA testing company 23andMe filed for bankruptcy after failed sale attempts and falling demand. CEO Anne Wojcicki resigned, and interim leaders are considering options for the company’s future. Industry competition and declining public interest contributed to its downfall.
- RUSSIA, UKRAINE REACH BLACK SEA AGREEMENT: The U.S. announced that Russia and Ukraine agreed to stop using force in the Black Sea. The deal includes safe navigation rules and ship inspections. Russia says it will fully comply only if some sanctions are lifted.
Special Thanks To The Conversation Project Partners:
- Cup Of Coffee: Harold Braxton, Colby Green, Eldon Kydd
- Spare Change: Joy Winters
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