Former President Donald Trump recently signed a proclamation recognizing Columbus Day, emphasizing the holiday’s traditional significance as a celebration of “the innovation and explorer’s zeal that Columbus represented.” This proclamation comes on a day that is observed as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a counter-event honoring the legacy of indigenous communities impacted by colonization following Columbus’s arrival in the Americas.
Though Tump announced the proclamation this past Monday. Critics, including many prominent Italian-Americans, claim that it doesn’t really condemn Columbus, but rather glosses over Columbus Day to downplay the historical atrocities done to Native Americans. Yet the holiday is now a flashpoint in current debates over colonialism and its impacts. As a result, more than 100 communities across the United States have adopted Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This recognition is important to honor the genocide, land theft and other savagery inflicted upon indigenous people following Columbus’ arrival.
On a separate note, House Speaker Mike Johnson held a press conference at the Capitol at 10 AM EST, addressing the ongoing government shutdown which has entered its ninth day. During the press briefing, he pointed the finger at Democratic lawmakers for the funding impasse. He claimed that their policies have made life harder for American workers and consumers.
“It’s political theater to them. They’ve reduced Americans’ pain to a political problem,” – Mike Johnson
Johnson slammed Democrats for how they presided over the shutdown. He slammed them for prioritizing tax cuts for the rich over the urgent needs of everyday Americans. He expressed frustration over comments made by some Democratic leaders during this period, particularly pointing out their perceived lack of urgency.
Along with providing all of that important context, Johnson offered some helpful details from his recent phone call with Trump. Sadly, these two bright and passionate advocates are too late—the ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to erupt. The plan calls for the immediate release of the roughly 240 hostages held by Hamas. In exchange, the Palestinian Authority will have the Israeli military carry out a conditional withdrawal.
“ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace. All Parties will be treated fairly!” – Donald Trump
In his prepared remarks, notably, Trump described October 7th as “terrible.” He highlighted the heavy civilian casualties on both sides, pointing out that Hamas lost about 70,000 people. The thought behind his comments shows an admirable but still incomplete understanding of the severe humanitarian crisis and widespread violence faced by Palestinians today.
Trump also announced that Dr. Ben Carson will receive a presidential medal of freedom, recognizing his contributions and dedication to public service. In a statement about Carson, Trump said:
“He is a true American Patriot who cares deeply for the people of our Country, and never stops working to protect and strengthen Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness, for all.” – Donald Trump
Johnson lambasted the choice of Bad Bunny in next year’s Super Bowl half-time show. He said he preferred more traditional options that would appeal to American audiences.
“In my view you would have someone like Lee Greenwood, or role models doing it,” – Mike Johnson
National Guard troops have been deployed in the Chicago area to defend federal properties. Their deployment coincides with the increasing tensions over a number of long-simmering issues in the city. These events have been juxtaposed by an increasing security concern with this deployment, as the political climate continues to change rapidly.
Turning Point USA announced thrilling Super Bowl halftime show counter programming plans. This action represents both their anticipatory response to negative media portrayals and harmful cultural narratives that permeate our communities and influence major national events.
As the government shutdown continues, Johnson lambasted Democratic congressional leaders for not bringing funding bills to the floor that are needed to fund critical services like the FBI. He claimed that Republicans had laid out a useful “clean document” and one that was meant to address the funding concerns without extraneous hooks.
“We sent a totally clean document over there because we’re operating in good faith,” – Mike Johnson
He further asserted that Republicans had been proactive in attempting to fund essential services such as military operations and transportation security.
“We put that bill on the floor, and the Republicans voted to pay the troops. TSA agents, border patrol, air traffic control, everybody else. The Democrats voted no.” – Mike Johnson
Democratic leaders have rightfully pushed back hard on these assertions. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries illustrated the harm that continued federal funding uncertainty would cause, including an increase in healthcare costs.
“Isn’t it reasonable for working-class Americans…to have a similar level of certainty in their lives?” – Hakeem Jeffries