Figured that maybe we could reinvigorate this thread and ignite some discussion considering we’re seven months into Trump 2.0. What’s on my mind:
- DC stuff—Trump’s takeover of our nation’s capital including the deployment of the National Guard (who, as of today, will now carry weapons). But as someone who knows DC, it’s funny to know that soldiers are spending their time on the ‘mean streets’ of Foggy Bottom, Federal Triangle, and the Mall.
- Zohran Mamdani—certainly lots to talk about here. Curious to hear what people think of his June primary win, his plans if he’s elected in November, and how he’s galvanized a very certain group of like-minded New Yorkers while also pulling residents of diverse outer borough communities disillusioned by costly rent and high prices.
- War of gerrymandering—Texas maps passed the state legislature the other night, meaning the GOP will pick up an additional five seats should the courts deem the new lines as unprejudiced. Gavin Newsom, however, stepped up to the plate and is counting on California’s electorate to give the ok to plans to retaliate against Texas by eliminating five Republicans from the Golden State’s congressional delegation through redrawn maps.
- The 2028 circus—sure, we’re not even past this year’s off-year gubernatorial elections but it’s still fun to think about who’s stock is rising for 2028. Newsom’s stock has certainly risen the most in past weeks thanks to the gerrymandering war, but I don’t think Democrats should nominate a Californian to their ticket (that coastal elite label can really, really turn some voters away).