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Trade Policy Adjustments and Economic Impact: This week, the U.S. government announced and then paused a series of tariffs on imports from various countries, including a 125% tariff on goods from China and other rates between 11% and 50% on imports from dozens of nations and the European Union. These tariffs, implemented last week, initially caused fluctuations in global stock markets. On April 9, 2025, most of these tariffs were paused, resulting in a rebound in stock prices. Officials have described the measures as part of a broader economic strategy, while some analysts have raised concerns about potential effects on trade and economic stability.

Source 1:  Breitbart, Source 2: CNN

House Passes SAVE Act Requiring Proof of Citizenship for Voter Registration:

This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which would require individuals to provide documentation verifying U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. Supporters of the legislation describe it as a safeguard against ineligible voting. Critics have raised concerns that the requirements could create administrative barriers for eligible voters. The bill now heads to the Senate, where its path forward remains uncertain.

Source 1: PBS, Source 2: Fox News

President Trump Signs Executive Order on State Climate Regulations: President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national energy emergency and instructing the Department of Justice to evaluate whether certain state climate laws exceed federal authority. The order specifically highlights state-level policies that require fossil fuel companies to contribute financially for past greenhouse gas emissions. Reactions to the executive action vary, with some citing the importance of energy policy uniformity and others pointing to potential implications for state environmental autonomy.

Source: 1: The White House,  Source 2: Newsmax, Source 3: POLITICO

Republican Elise Stefanik has rejoined House Republican leadership following the withdrawal of her nomination for Ambassador to the United Nations. In a statement, Stefanik announced that Speaker Mike Johnson appointed her as “Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership.” This title, which is entirely new, will focus more on strategy and communications in addition to serving on the House Steering Committee.

Democrat Sami Scheetz, a former Iowa State Representative, resigned last week to take a seat on the Linn County Board of Supervisors. Governor Kim Reynolds has scheduled a special election to take place on April 29th to fill the seat.

Democrat Jason Lowe, a former Oklahoma State Representative, resigned on Monday to take a seat on the Oklahoma County Commission. Governor Kevin Stitt has yet to schedule a special election to fill the seat.

On Tuesday, April 15th, a few states are holding special legislative elections.

Click on the links below to view the results:

• Massachusetts Special State House Primary Election, 6th Essex District
• Minnesota Special State Senate Primary Election, 6th District
• Mississippi Special State Senate General Election, 15th District

(Glossary)

Special Election: is an election scheduled outside the regular electoral calendar to address specific issues or fill vacancies in public offices. These elections are typically held when an incumbent official resigns, passes away, or is otherwise unable to continue in office. Special elections can also be called to vote on urgent matters, such as referendums or specific legislative proposals.

🎉 This Week’s Quiz Spotlight!

📍 Peter Householter from Ohio – "Access for families to affordable long-term housing. I work with a group of churches in the area to host, feed, and entertain 4 homeless families for a few weeks each year."

📍 Tom from Texas – "I have to speak with friends positively about our current Mayor."

📍 Margaret from Massachusetts – "Like many communities, ours needs more affordable housing. I contribute to fundraising and awareness-raising toward this goal."

An impressive 78.7% of you scored either a perfect 5 out of 5 or missed by just one question.

42.6% nailed every question, while

36.1% were just one answer away.

This shows a strong grasp of the material — keep up the excellent work.