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Category: Politics
November 14, 2025
Politics

Now the Indiana GOP Is Throwing in the Towel on Redistricting?

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: Indiana’s GOP state senate leader announced the chamber will not reconvene in December to redraw congressional maps, dealing a setback to President Donald J. Trump’s redistricting push.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: President Donald Trump, Indiana Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray (R), Vice President J.D. Vance, and Indiana lawmakers.

📍WHEN & WHERE: Announcement made on Friday in Indianapolis, Indiana.

💬KEY QUOTE: “Today, I’m announcing there are not enough votes to move that idea forward, and the Senate will not reconvene in December.” – Rodric Bray

🎯IMPACT: The decision weakens the GOP’s efforts to secure a stronger House majority through redistricting, while Democrats ramp up similar efforts in other states.

IN FULL

Indiana state Republican lawmakers announced Friday that the state Senate will no longer convene in December to redraw congressional maps, delivering a significant blow to President Donald J. Trump‘s push for mid-decade redistricting to preserve his Republican House of Representatives majority. State Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray (R) made the decision to forego the December special session after determining the effort lacked the support to be successful after a failed test vote.

“Today, I’m announcing there are not enough votes to move that idea forward, and the Senate will not reconvene in December,” Bray said in a statement. The decision comes despite efforts by Vice President J.D. Vance, who visited Indiana multiple times to lobby lawmakers, and President Trump, who had hosted Bray and other state leaders in the Oval Office to discuss the matter in August.

The announcement has drawn sharp criticism from Trump’s allies. Alex Bruesewitz, a supporter of the America First leader, took to X (formerly Twitter) to call out Bray and other Republicans, saying, “Our party can no longer afford to harbor these gutless, self-serving traitors who stab us in the back while accomplishing absolutely nothing.” Meanwhile, Governor Mike Braun (R-IN) urged the Senate to “do the right thing and show up to vote for fair maps.”

Democrats, on the other hand, celebrated the decision. Representative Andre Carson (D-IN), whose seat was likely to be redrawn, praised the move, stating, “Prayer, people, and partnerships power change. Hoosiers do things differently. We’re about collaboration, not division.” Carson commended Bray and other lawmakers for sticking to “Hoosier values.”

The setback in Indiana is part of a broader struggle for Republican-led redistricting efforts, which have also stalled in Kansas, Nebraska, and New Hampshire. Meanwhile, Democrats are advancing their own redistricting plans in states like California and Virginia, which could potentially result in the gain of several seats.

Image by Ted Eytan.

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November 14, 2025
William Upton
Politics

NY Gov. Hochul Considers MASSIVE Corporate Tax Hike to Fund Mamdani’s Socialist Policies.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: Governor Kathy Hochul (D-NY) is considering a massive tax increase on New York corporations in order to pay for the far-left socialist agenda of New York City’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani (D).

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: Gov Kathy Hochul, New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, President Donald J. Trump, and New York corporations and taxpayers.

📍WHEN & WHERE: November 14, 2025, in New York.

🎯IMPACT: New York has already seen significant cuts in federal funding and is projected to face an over $4 billion budget deficit in the coming fiscal year, complicating matters for both Hochul and Mamdani.

IN FULL

Governor Kathy Hochul (D-NY) is considering a massive tax increase on New York corporations in order to pay for the far-left socialist agenda of New York City’s mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani (D). Following Mamdani’s victory in the city’s mayoral race, Hochul pledged not to raise taxes on the state’s high earners but is now considering a hike in the state corporate income tax instead.

Notably, the corporate tax increase under consideration would primarily serve as a means to alleviate a more than $4 billion budget deficit New York state is estimated to face in the coming fiscal year. However, Hochul’s administration believes the hike could also be used as a pay-for to cover some of Mamdani’s radical policy ideas, which have included city-owned grocery stores, a rent freeze, expansion of housing, free city buses, free childcare, and other far-left proposals.

While Hochul’s budget director has insisted that tax increases are “the last thing on my mind” and contends the state is in a “good spot financially,” the rumblings coming from Albany suggest New York’s top Democrat leader may be reversing course in light of Mamdani’s meteoric rise within the party.

The precarious fiscal situation forecasted for the state, though, could prove too much for Mamdani’s agenda. Already, New York state has seen federal cuts enacted by the Trump administration as the White House seeks to slash government waste and fraudulent spending. In early October, the Trump administration cut $18 billion in federal infrastructure funding to New York City over concerns it would be subjected to unconstitutional DEI constraints by city officials.

President Donald J. Trump previously threatened to cut federal funding to New York City if Mamdani were elected, citing his far-left policies. However, following Mamdani’s victory, Trump remarked that he would speak with the incoming mayor and “will help him a little bit, maybe.”

Hochul will likely face a strong challenge from Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY) in 2026, with polling currently showing the two neck and neck. Mamdani’s term begins on January 1.

Image by Marc A. Hermann / MTA.

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November 14, 2025
News
Politics

Vance Will Discuss 2028 Presidential Run With Trump After Midterms.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: Vice President J.D. Vance said he will discuss the possibility of a 2028 presidential run with President Donald J. Trump after the 2026 midterms.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: Vice President Vance, President Trump, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

📍WHEN & WHERE: The comments were made on Thursday evening in a Fox News interview.

💬KEY QUOTE: “We’re going to do everything that we can to win the midterms. And then after that, I’m going to sit down with the President of the United States and talk to him about it.” – J.D. Vance

🎯IMPACT: Vance’s comments highlight his focus on the midterms.

IN FULL

Vice President J.D. Vance appeared on addressed speculation about a potential presidential run in 2028 in a Fox News interview on Thursday. Vance said he will discuss the matter with President Donald J. Trump after the 2026 midterms, but stressed that they are his immediate focus, being key to securing the President’s agenda.

“I [have] thought about what that moment might look like after the midterm elections, sure, but… I try to put it out of my head and remind myself the American people elected me to do a job right now, and my job is to do it,” Vance said, explaining: “[I]f you start getting distracted and focused on what comes next, I think it actually makes you worse at the job that you have.”

Vance, a favorite among MAGA supporters, is seen as a leading Republican contender for 2028. Early polls suggest he is competitive in a hypothetical matchup against California Governor Gavin Newsom, a likely Democratic candidate.

“I really want us to win the midterms because if the Democrats get in power, they’re going to try to screw up a lot of the great things the President of the United States has done over the past ten months,” Vance said, emphasizing that some of the proverbial “trees” the administration has planted will take a few years to “bear fruit,” reiterating, “I don’t want the Democrats to screw that up.”

Regarding a potential contest with Secretary of State Marco Rubio for the 2028 nomination, Vance was conciliatory, saying, “If Marco eventually runs for President… we can cross that bridge when we come to it, adding that “if either one of us end up running, it’s a long, long ways in the future, and neither of us is entitled to it.”

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November 13, 2025
News
Politics

Noem Distributes $10,000 Bonuses to TSA Agents Who Worked Through Shutdown.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced $10,000 bonus checks for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents who worked without pay during the Senate Democrats’ government shutdown.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, TSA agents, and President Donald J. Trump.

📍WHEN & WHERE: Announced at a press conference on Thursday.

💬KEY QUOTE: “We are not only going to continue their paychecks like they should’ve received all along, but also they’re going to receive a bonus check for stepping up, taking on extra shifts, for showing up each and every day, for serving the American people.” – Kristi Noem

🎯IMPACT: TSA agents and air traffic controllers will receive financial recognition for their service during the shutdown, while air travel disruptions may persist temporarily.

IN FULL

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced on November 13 that thousands of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees will receive $10,000 bonus checks for their “exemplary service” during the recent record-breaking government shutdown. Standing beside TSA officers who continued working without pay, Noem said the payments would serve both as compensation and recognition for their dedication.

“We are not only going to continue their paychecks like they should’ve received all along, but also they’re going to receive a bonus check for stepping up, taking on extra shifts, for showing up each and every day, for serving the American people,” Noem said during the press conference. She distributed several checks to TSA agents at the event.

President Donald J. Trump made a similar promise earlier in the week, saying he would recommend $10,000 bonuses for air traffic controllers who remained on duty. “For those Air Traffic Controllers who were GREAT PATRIOTS, and didn’t take ANY TIME OFF for the ‘Democrat Shutdown Hoax,’ I will be recommending a BONUS of $10,000 per person for distinguished service to our Country,” Trump stated.

The shutdown, which began on October 1 and ended late Wednesday after 43 days, was the longest in U.S. history. It stemmed from a budget standoff between congressional Democrats and Republicans over government spending priorities. Senate Democrats blocked Republican measures that would have ensured continued pay for members of the military and federal employees during the funding lapse.

During the shutdown, millions of federal workers went without pay, and essential programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, faced disruptions. The Trump administration announced that SNAP would continue at 50 percent of its usual funding levels, prompting widespread concern among recipients. The standoff concluded when President Trump signed a short-term spending bill to reopen the government, allowing agencies to resume normal operations.

The Federal Aviation Administration reported that staffing shortages during the shutdown forced a reduction of up to 10 percent in air traffic at 40 major airports nationwide. Despite missing paychecks, thousands of TSA agents and air traffic controllers continued to work to keep flights operating safely.

Noem emphasized that the administration aims to support those workers who endured financial hardship during the shutdown. “We will be looking at every single TSA official that helped serve during this government shutdown and do what we can to recognize that and help them financially with a bonus check to get them and their family back on their feet,” she said.

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November 13, 2025
Politics

Trump Sues to Block California’s Congressional Redistricting Plan.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: The Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a lawsuit to block California’s newly approved congressional district boundaries.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: The Trump administration, California Governor Gavin Newsom (D), and California voters.

📍WHEN & WHERE: California, November 13, 2025.

💬KEY QUOTE: “Race cannot be used as a proxy to advance political interests, but that is precisely what the California General Assembly did with Proposition 50.” – DOJ Lawsuit

🎯IMPACT: The lawsuit could influence control of the U.S. House in the 2026 midterm elections.

IN FULL

The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced Thursday that it is suing to block California’s newly approved congressional district boundaries, setting the stage for a legal battle that could shape the 2026 midterm elections. Filed in federal court, the lawsuit seeks to challenge Proposition 50, a constitutional amendment passed by California voters that temporarily suspends the state’s redistricting commission, allowing the legislature to redraw district lines.

In the filing—in which the DOJ is joining a lawsuit already being brought by the California Republican Party—the Trump administration accuses California of racial gerrymandering, alleging the state used race as a factor to favor Hispanic voters. “Race cannot be used as a proxy to advance political interests, but that is precisely what the California General Assembly did with Proposition 50,” the lawsuit states. It seeks to prevent the state from using the new map in future elections.

Proposition 50, advanced by Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA), aims to help Democrats gain five Republican-held seats in the House. Newsom’s move follows a Republican-led redistricting effort in Texas, supported by President Donald J. Trump. The outcome of the DOJ’s challenge could have significant implications for party control in the House of Representatives. Republicans currently hold 219 seats, while Democrats hold 214, leaving Democrats needing only a small gain to reclaim the majority.

The National Pulse reported earlier this month that Kansas Republicans abandoned efforts to hold a special legislative session in order to pass a redistricting plan that would have targeted Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS), the only Democrat member of the state’s congressional delegation. State Representative Dan Hawkins (R), the state House Speaker, announced on Tuesday that he lacked the votes to convene a special session without the approval of Governor Laura Kelly (D-KS).

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November 13, 2025
Politics

Fetterman Criticizes Democrats for Withholding Epstein Files Under Biden Presidency.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: Democratic Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman criticized the former Biden government for not releasing files about deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein during its time in office.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: Sen. John Fetterman, Jeffrey Epstein, victims of Epstein, and the former Biden government.

📍WHEN & WHERE: The comments were made during a Thursday appearance on MSNBC’s Morning Joe.

💬KEY QUOTE: “I think what’s going to happen is it’s entirely appropriate, you know, release everything and release all of them,” Fetterman said.

🎯IMPACT: A discharge petition regarding Epstein files has reached the threshold for a vote in the House of Representatives.

IN FULL

Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) broke once again with his fellow Democrats on Thursday, criticizing the former Biden government for failing to release documents concerning deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Speaking with MSNBC’s Morning Joe co-host Jonathan Lemire, the Pennsylvania Senator stated that while Democrats forcing the release of the Epstein files is “entirely appropriate,” he has questions on why his party sat on the documents while they were in power.

“You know, another one of my questions is like … we sat on those for four years, too. So, I mean, I don’t really understand, you know, either. I mean, there are a lot of questions,” Fetterman said. Late Wednesday, House Democrats secured the votes necessary for a discharge petition that will force a vote on releasing the files in the chamber.

Recently released documents from the Epstein estate contain emails from author and fabulist Michael Wolff that appear to show him advising Epstein on how to possibly blackmail President Donald J. Trump. While it was reported in May that Trump was told that his name did appear in the files, Virginia Giuffre—one of Epstein’s most prominent victims—did not accuse the President of any wrongdoing in her posthumous memoir released in October.

Other victims of Epstein told NBC News in September that they never witnessed any misconduct by Trump. Additionally, Bradley Edwards—an attorney representing several of the victims—has publicly attested to Trump’s assistance with his litigation. “The only thing that I can say about President Trump is that he is the only person who in 2009, when I served a lot of subpoenas against a lot of people… he is the only person that picked up the phone and said, ‘Let’s just talk, I’ll give ya as much time as you want, I’ll tell ya what you need to know,’” Edwards stated in a 2018 video.

Image by Tom Wolf.

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November 13, 2025
Politics

Stefanik Neck and Neck With Hochul in NY Governor Race.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: A poll shows Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) trailing New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) by only three percentage points in a hypothetical gubernatorial match-up.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: Rep. Elise Stefanik, Gov. Kathy Hochul, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman (R).

📍WHEN & WHERE: The poll was conducted November 9-10 among 500 likely New York voters.

🎯IMPACT: The poll suggests Hochul is vulnerable to a 2026 challenge by Stefanik and indicates increasingly competitive election dynamics in New York.

IN FULL

A new poll conducted by J.L. Partners shows Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) trailing incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul (D) by just three points in a hypothetical gubernatorial match-up. The survey of 500 likely New York voters found Hochul leading Stefanik 46 percent to 43 percent, with 11 percent undecided.

Stefanik, who recently announced her gubernatorial campaign, has positioned herself as a strong supporter of President Donald J. Trump. She was first elected to Congress in 2014 to represent New York’s 21st Congressional District and served as the House GOP Conference Chair from 2021 to 2025. Trump had nominated her for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations in January, but the nomination was later withdrawn to ensure her vote remained in Congress for key legislative priorities.

The poll also revealed that Stefanik enjoys a commanding lead over Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman (R) in a potential GOP primary, with 74 percent support compared to Blakeman’s five percent. Blakeman, 70, is believed to be preparing to announce his candidacy for governor soon.

Gov. Hochul’s job performance received mixed reviews in the poll, with 40 percent of respondents strongly or somewhat approving and 54 percent strongly or somewhat disapproving. Meanwhile, 37 percent of voters view Stefanik very or somewhat favorably, while 32 percent hold unfavorable views of her.

The survey, conducted November 9-10, has a margin of error of 4.4 percent.

Image by Gage Skidmore.

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November 13, 2025
Politics

D.C.’s Democrat City Council Moves to Block Trump’s No Tax on Tips, Overtime Policy.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: The Washington D.C. Council passed an emergency tax bill to decouple parts of its tax code from federal tax changes, blocking tax breaks for tips and overtime pay.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: The D.C. Council and workers affected by the changes.

📍WHEN & WHERE: The emergency measure applies for 90 days in Washington, D.C., with a planned temporary extension of 225 days.

💬KEY QUOTE: “At our most recent Legislative Meeting, the Council voted on an emergency basis to decouple elements of the District’s tax code from the federal,” said the D.C. Council in an official statement.

🎯IMPACT: Thousands of hospitality workers in D.C. will see tips and overtime pay remain fully taxable under local law.

IN FULL

Washington, D.C.’s Democrat-dominated City Council has adopted emergency tax legislation aimed at blocking federal tax code changes made under President Donald J. Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The move will prevent tax breaks for tip wages and overtime pay from taking effect in the city.

It is estimated that thousands of restaurant and hospitality industry workers in the nation’s capital will be impacted by the D.C. Council’s new tax law. Provisions in the OBBB allow workers to deduct up to $25,000 in tips and $12,500 in overtime pay for single filers, with higher amounts for joint filers. However, these deductions will not be reflected in local tax returns due to the Council’s decision.

Additionally, the D.C. Council ended the $6,000 local senior bonus deduction and other business-related tax breaks in an effort to improve the city’s finances. Concerningly, estimates suggest the District of Columbia could face a revenue shortfall well over $1 billion over the next three years. The budget gap is primarily being driven by the Trump administration’s reductions in the federal workforce and increasing costs for the city’s social programs.

“At our most recent Legislative Meeting, the Council voted on an emergency basis to decouple elements of the District’s tax code from the federal, following Congress’ passage of the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). In doing so, and in light of revised revenue estimates by the District’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Council also voted to dedicate a portion of the newfound revenue to two purposes: an accelerated full local match for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the establishment of a local child tax credit of $1,000 per child for eligible families,” the D.C. Council said in a statement.

The emergency amendment applies for 90 days, with a planned temporary extension of 225 days. A permanent measure will require further Council votes.

Image by APK.

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November 12, 2025
News
Politics

Transurrection: Petition to Oust Schumer from Senate Leadership Hits 50,000 Signatures.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: A petition to remove Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has surpassed 50,000 signatures, following criticism of his leadership during recent legislative battles.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: Transgender activist Charlotte Clymer (born Charles Clymer), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and several Democrat lawmakers, including Reps. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Seth Moulton (D-MA).

📍WHEN & WHERE: The petition was launched in March 2023 and has gained momentum following a recent Senate vote on a continuing resolution to fund the government.

💬KEY QUOTE: “We need new leadership to meet this grave moment, and we need it now.” – Charlotte Clymer

🎯IMPACT: Growing calls for Schumer to step down, with at least 11 Democrat lawmakers, 15 organizations, and eight Democrat candidates supporting his removal.

IN FULL

A petition led by transgender activist Charlotte Clymer, formerly Charles Clymer, calling for the removal of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has surpassed 50,000 signatures, reflecting growing frustration with Democratic leadership. Clymer’s petition accuses Schumer of failing to effectively oppose President Donald J. Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, describing the 74-year-old Democrat’s leadership as “impotent” and lacking “a comprehensive plan or strategy to combat the efforts by Trump and Elon Musk to demolish the federal government and harm the American people.” In his statement accompanying the petition, Clymer wrote, “We need new leadership to meet this grave moment, and we need it now.”

The petition, launched in March after Schumer voted to advance a Republican continuing resolution (CR) funding bill, has regained momentum following a recent Senate vote on a similar funding measure. Though Schumer opposed the latest resolution, enough Senate Democrats joined Republicans to pass it, prompting backlash. The progressive group Indivisible has urged candidates to reject Schumer’s leadership and “abandon the status quo of feckless leadership.”

So far, 11 Democratic lawmakers, 15 organizations, and eight Democratic candidates have joined calls for Schumer to step aside. The protests organized under the “No Kings” movement have amplified these demands, framing them as part of a broader push for generational and ideological change in Senate leadership. Despite the mounting criticism, Schumer has insisted, “Look, I’m not stepping down.”

The growing rift over Schumer’s leadership mirrors wider divisions inside the Democratic Party. Earlier this year, anti-gun rights activist David Hogg attempted to launch a multi-million-dollar campaign aimed at challenging incumbent Democrats in safe districts who were not deemed woke enough.

Veteran strategist James Carville blasted Hogg’s effort, calling him a “contemptible little twerp” for targeting members of his own party. The controversy deepened when the Democratic National Committee (DNC) later voided Hogg’s appointment as vice chair, citing gender-parity rules that required him to be a woman.

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November 12, 2025
Politics

Mamdani Says He’ll Speak With Trump Before Assuming Office.

PULSE POINTS

❓WHAT HAPPENED: New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani (D) announced plans to call President Donald J. Trump before assuming office.

👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: Zohran Mamdani, President Trump, and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D).

📍WHEN & WHERE: Mamdani’s term begins on January 1, with discussions taking place in the lead-up to his inauguration.

💬KEY QUOTE: “I will be reaching out to the White House as we prepare to actually take office because this is a relationship that will be critical to the success of the city,” Mamdani said.

🎯IMPACT: The move suggests Mamdani may feel a need to at least appear somewhat cooperative with the Trump administration to avoid negative consequences for New York City.

IN FULL

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, revealed his intention to hold a call with President Donald J. Trump before officially taking office. The announcement was made during an interview on Tuesday.

“I will be proactive,” Mamdani said, outlining his approach to deter the federal government from deploying U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents or National Guardsmen to the city. He claimed he would make an effort to establish a working relationship with the White House.

“I will be reaching out to the White House as we prepare to actually take office because this is a relationship that will be critical to the success of the city,” Mamdani admitted. The Ugandan immigrant also shared that he has been in discussions with Governor Kathy Hochul (D-NY) about strategies to respond to potential federal actions by the Trump administration.

President Trump had previously threatened to cut federal funding to New York City if Mamdani were elected, citing his far-left policies. However, following Mamdani’s victory, Trump remarked that he would speak with the incoming mayor and “will help him a little bit, maybe.” Mamdani’s term begins on January 1.

Image by Eden, Janine, and Jim.

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