Hello! This is August 22, 2025.

Joe Gruters Elected New RNC Chair

Florida Senator Joe Gruters was elected Friday as the new chairman of the Republican National Committee, succeeding Michael Whatley. In a joint statement, both leaders emphasized party unity, pledging to fight for election integrity and advance President Trump’s America First agenda. Gruters, who previously chaired the Florida GOP and served as RNC treasurer, received Trump’s “Complete and Total Endorsement” ahead of the vote. The RNC said it is united behind Trump and the MAGA movement as it looks toward the 2026 elections.

Judge Blocks Trump’s Funding Cuts to Sanctuary Cities

A federal judge in San Francisco extended an injunction preventing the Trump administration from cutting off federal funds to sanctuary cities, including Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, and more than 30 other jurisdictions. Judge William Orrick ruled that executive orders directing Attorney General Pam Bondi and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to withhold funds were unconstitutional “coercive threats.” The decision blocks immigration-related conditions on key grant programs, protecting billions of dollars for cities that limit cooperation with ICE. The administration has appealed the ruling as it continues efforts to pressure sanctuary communities.

Lyle Menendez Denied Parole in Beverly Hills Murder Case

Lyle Menendez, convicted with his brother Erik for killing their parents in 1989, was denied parole Friday in his first hearing before California’s review board. The panel cited ongoing concerns about rule-breaking and “anti-social traits,” despite acknowledging Lyle’s remorse and model inmate record. Erik was also denied parole the day before. Both men, resentenced earlier this year to 50-to-life, will be eligible again in three years. Governor Gavin Newsom may still review the board’s decision, but unless he intervenes, the ruling stands.

51% Yield From Tesla-Linked ETF Sparks Caution

The YieldMax TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF (TSLY) is boasting a jaw-dropping 51% annual distribution rate, paying out monthly, but experts warn it may be a yield trap. Instead of holding Tesla stock directly, the fund uses synthetic positions and covered call strategies to generate income. While payouts are real, they can change anytime, and the fund’s price has plunged nearly 47% in the past year even as Tesla stock gained 43%. Analysts say TSLY can be a niche play for aggressive income seekers, but only in small doses due to its capped upside and steep risks.

Trump Seeks $2B for D.C. Beautification Project

President Donald Trump announced a $2 billion plan to "make D.C. beautiful again," promising resurfaced roads, new lighting, and upgraded public spaces around the Capitol. Speaking at the Kennedy Center, he said Congress is ready to fund the initiative and pledged quick results using “the best contractors.” The plan builds on Trump’s federal takeover of law enforcement in the city, which he credited with reducing crime and noted a week without homicides. He warned D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser that continued failures could trigger a full federal takeover of the district.

11-Year-Old Girl Gets Life-Saving Heart Transplant After 200 Days in Hospital

Ava Cooper, an 11-year-old from Ohio, delivered the emotional news to her father that she was finally receiving a donor heart after more than 200 days on the transplant list. Born with multiple heart defects and suffering heart failure from a sinus infection, she underwent surgery at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital in March. Her father described the call as “overwhelming,” saying it marked a turning point after months of fear and waiting. Ava is now home, recovering, and grateful to the donor family whose gift made her second chance at life possible.

5 Habits Linked to Greater Happiness

Researchers at Northern Illinois University say happiness can be cultivated through intentional habits rather than outside circumstances. Experts recommend embracing your true age and pursuing activities that make you feel younger, being a best friend to others, and increasing social connections through meaningful time spent with friends. Learning new skills helps keep the brain sharp, while creating traditions — like weekly dinners or family rituals — builds belonging and joy. The study emphasizes that daily choices and supportive relationships play a key role in long-term well-being.