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Trump’s Second Term: Michigan Rally and Congressional Focus

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Highlights of the Day

President Trump celebrated the 100th day of his second term in Michigan with a robust rally. During the event, he referenced an editorial that praised his presidency as historically impactful. Trump’s tenure has been marked by bold moves, including utilizing wartime powers to address immigration, targeting political rivals, and engaging in a trade war that has altered international relations. At the rally, he incorrectly asserted his victory in the 2020 election, pinpointed former President Joe Biden for numerous national issues, and argued for greater recognition of his achievements.



President Trump speaks during a rally at Macomb Community College on in Warren, Mich., on Tuesday to mark his first 100 days in office.

President Trump speaks during a rally at Macomb Community College on in Warren, Mich., on Tuesday to mark his first 100 days in office.

Scott Olson/Getty Images


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Scott Olson/Getty Images

  • 🎧 Trump’s second term is characterized by his increased experience and reliance on loyalists, NPR’s Tamara Keith explains on Up First. Unlike his initial term, where he faced resistance within his administration, Trump now promotes a major tax and spending cut bill, urging Republicans for swift congressional action. For more, listen to the podcast.

Republicans in Congress have prioritized Trump’s proposed bill, aiming for passage by Memorial Day. The entirely partisan nature of the process is underscored by unanimous Democratic opposition, as noted by NPR’s Elena Moore. Despite internal Republican divisions, full party alignment is crucial to advance the legislation.

  • 🎧 Steve Bannon anticipates a transformative summer, sharing in an NPR interview his expectations for Trump’s agenda. Bannon, a former White House strategist, calls for intensified administrative actions against universities and stricter immigration policies. He advocates for the return of high-value manufacturing jobs to revitalize the economy. For a detailed discussion, hear the full interview.

Living Better



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Sunnu Rebecca Choi/For NPR

“Living Better” is a series focusing on health and wellness in the U.S.

The economic climate has heightened financial stress, especially among the many federal workers facing layoffs. This anxiety can lead to severe health issues, such as depression and hypertension, if not managed properly. Strategies for mitigating financial stress include acknowledging job loss grief, leveraging skills through side jobs or volunteer work, and setting short-term goals. For more insights, read further here.

  • 💰 Accepting and processing a job loss emotionally is crucial to adapting to new financial circumstances.
  • 💰 Engaging in side projects or volunteer work can provide direction and help redefine personal identity.
  • 💰 Focusing on present needs over long-term worries can aid in setting actionable short-term goals.

Visual Feature



Alex, a female bodega kitten playing with a Lotto ticket at Grand Organic in Brooklyn, New York on March 31, 2025.

Alex, a female bodega kitten playing with a Lotto ticket at Grand Organic in Brooklyn, New York on March 31, 2025.

Lanna Apisukh for NPR/Lanna Apisukh


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Lanna Apisukh for NPR/Lanna Apisukh

In New York, bodega cats are cherished for their dual roles as both companions and pest controllers in local convenience stores. Although they are technically illegal due to regulations against animals in food-selling establishments, pet enthusiasts are campaigning to have them officially recognized as working animals. Explore these pictures of bodega cats in action.

Essential Updates Before You Leave



In 2024, the Idaho Humanities Council funded a rural historical society’s project to compile 400 biographies of local veterans.

In 2024, the Idaho Humanities Council funded a rural historical society’s project to compile 400 biographies of local veterans.

Hagerman Valley Historical Museum and Idaho Humanities


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Hagerman Valley Historical Museum and Idaho Humanities

  1. The Mellon Foundation has allocated $15 million in “emergency funding” to state humanities councils nationwide following government cuts of $65 million in grants, impacting cultural institutions. Read more here.
  2. The Trump administration proposes reducing funds for LGBTQ+ youth services on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, according to a leaked budget. More details at this link.
  3. The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-female unit serving abroad in WWII, received a Congressional Gold Medal on the 80th anniversary of their service. Learn more here.

This newsletter was edited by Suzanne Nuyen.

This article was originally written by www.npr.org