Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-29-25

Trump Threatens to Transfer Harvard's Billions for Scientific Research to Trade Schools, Demands Names of Foreign Students https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/27/trump-warns-he-might-transfer-harvards-billions-for-scientific-research-to-trade-schools-demands-names-of-foreign-students/ via @dianeravitch 

Trump's ongoing feud with Harvard University escalates as he threatens to redirect billions in federal research grants to trade schools and demands a list of Harvard's foreign students. His actions, perceived as punitive and driven by personal grievances, risk undermining critical medical and scientific research and damaging the U.S.'s global academic standing.

### Key Points

- Trump threatens to withdraw $3 billion in federal research grants from Harvard and allocate them to trade schools, citing grievances against the university. 

- He demands the names and countries of origin of Harvard's nearly 7,000 foreign students, despite the information already being accessible via visa applications. 

- Critics argue his actions are vindictive, undermine academic freedom, and jeopardize crucial research advancements in medicine and science. 

- Concerns are raised about the broader impact on U.S. higher education, innovation, and global competitiveness due to such policies. 

U.S. Navy Restores Almost All of the DEI Banned Books https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/28/u-s-navy-restores-almost-all-of-the-dei-banned-books/ via @dianeravitch 

### Key Points

- The U.S. Navy initially removed 381 books related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) following directives from Trump and Hegseth but later restored all except 20 titles after a Pentagon review. 

- The banned books covered topics such as race, racism, gender identity, and sexual orientation, including works by Maya Angelou and Ibram X. Kendi. 

- The reversal was based on standardized search terms issued by the Pentagon, with a future review planned for the remaining 20 titles. 

- The blog questions the rationale behind the reduction of banned books and critiques the military's ability to engage with challenging topics. 

- Historical polls show fluctuating military opinions toward Trump, with officers generally having less favorable views of him compared to enlisted personnel. 

Maurice Cunningham: DFER Moves into MAGA Orbit https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/28/maurice-cunningham-dfer-moves-into-maga-orbit/ via @dianeravitch 

Maurice Cunningham critiques the Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) for its shift toward right-wing policies, aligning with MAGA ideologies and abandoning its original Democratic values. He highlights internal discontent, leadership turnover, and financial ties to Republican donors, which have led to DFER's decline and alignment with extremist education privatization agendas.

### Key Points

- Maurice Cunningham exposes DFER’s alignment with right-wing policies and MAGA ideologies, abandoning support for public education and teachers' unions. 

- DFER’s CEO, Jorge Elorza, advocates for privatization through vouchers, tax credits, and education savings accounts, aligning with figures like Betsy DeVos and Donald Trump. 

- Internal conflicts and leadership resignations reflect dissatisfaction with DFER’s shift toward political extremism. 

- Former leaders accuse DFER of retaliatory practices and discriminatory behavior, further highlighting organizational instability. 

- Financial backing from Republican-aligned billionaires, such as the Walton Family and Rupert Murdoch, underscores DFER’s departure from Democratic principles. 

- DFER’s influence has waned significantly, with reduced chapters and staff, as it embraces far-right education privatization agendas. 

- The group’s trajectory aligns with the long-standing goal of dismantling public education in favor of market-driven alternatives. 

Heather Cox Richardson: Courts Are Our Guardrail--For Now https://dianeravitch.net/2025/05/28/heather-cox-richardson-courts-are-our-guardrail-for-now/ via @dianeravitch 

A blog post by Diane Ravitch highlights the ongoing judicial challenges faced by the Trump administration and its apparent attempts to undermine the rule of law. The article discusses various court rulings against Trump’s executive orders, lawsuits from states and organizations, and pardons granted to individuals convicted of crimes. It emphasizes the broader patterns of authoritarianism, including attacks on judicial independence and parallels with other nations. The post concludes with the importance of civil society mobilizing to defend democracy.

### Key Points

- The Trump administration suffered a high loss rate in federal courts, with bipartisan rulings against its actions. 

- U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan allowed states to sue Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency, citing unconstitutional conduct. 

- NPR and public radio stations sued Trump for withholding congressionally approved funds, alleging retaliation against free press. 

- Trump’s administration used procedural delays to hinder justice, while his allies worked to entrench controversial policies. 

- Trump issued controversial pardons, including to convicted individuals like Scott Jenkins and Paul Walczak, raising concerns about undermining judicial accountability. 

- Authoritarian patterns, such as attacking judges and delegitimizing the judiciary, were compared to global examples, with a call for civil society to mobilize to defend democracy. 

Big Education Ape: Send in the Clowns: The Democratic Circus https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/send-in-clowns-democratic-circus.html 

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the current political landscape in the United States, focusing on the Democratic and Republican parties. It highlights the internal divisions within the Democratic Party, characterized by the clash between progressive and establishment factions. The article also discusses the concept of a "shadow Cabinet" as a potential strategy for Democrats to counter Republican policies. Additionally, it critiques both parties for their respective shortcomings: Democrats for their inability to effectively communicate and capitalize on popular policies, and Republicans for their chaotic yet effective messaging tactics.

### Key Points

- The Democratic Party is divided into four main groups: Progressive Left, Establishment Liberals, Democratic Mainstays, and Outsider Left, each with different priorities and levels of influence. 

- A "shadow Cabinet" is proposed as a novel idea to challenge the current administration's policies, although it is unlikely to be implemented. 

- The Democratic Party faces an identity crisis between neo-liberal establishment figures and progressive challengers, impacting its ability to unify and present a cohesive vision. 

- Republicans, despite internal chaos, have mastered effective messaging to rally their base, which Democrats struggle to emulate. 

- The article concludes with a call for Democrats to embrace bold ideas and better communication to avoid electoral defeats. 

Is Elon Musk the Reincarnation of Howard Hughes? https://open.substack.com/pub/ru4people/p/is-elon-musk-the-reincarnation-of?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

Is Elon Musk the Reincarnation of Howard Hughes? The article humorously explores a conspiracy theory suggesting that Elon Musk might be the reincarnation of Howard Hughes, drawing parallels between their eccentricities, genius, and unconventional lifestyles. Both are portrayed as innovative billionaires with a knack for breaking norms, creating extraordinary machines, and embracing chaos while pursuing groundbreaking ideas.

### Key Points

- A Reddit thread sparked the theory that Elon Musk could be Howard Hughes reincarnated, which Musk jokingly acknowledged on Twitter. 

- Howard Hughes was an eccentric 20th-century billionaire known for aviation, filmmaking, and reclusive behavior, while Musk is a modern-day tech billionaire with similar quirks. 

- The article humorously imagines Howard Hughes’ spirit choosing to reincarnate as Musk, highlighting Musk's early genius and parallels to Hughes’ innovative tendencies. 

- Both men share a penchant for doing things their way, such as Musk selling flamethrowers and Hughes building the wooden Spruce Goose airplane. 

- Their defiance of societal norms is evident in Hughes’ reclusiveness and Musk’s unconventional actions, like naming his child X Æ A-12. 

- Both turned failures into spectacles, with Hughes surviving a plane crash and Musk facing rocket explosions with determination. 

- The theory extends to Musk’s AI ventures, suggesting Hughes might aim to achieve immortality via technology. 

- Skeptics dismiss the reincarnation idea, attributing Musk’s eccentricity to his unique personality and era. 

It's All Over https://open.substack.com/pub/arthurgoldstein/p/its-all-over?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

It's All Over All that's left is counting the votes. Arthur Goldstein May 28, 2025 41 12 8 Share It’s been a hectic and frenetic few months. I was confident, last year, that retirees would take over from indifferent, crumbling Unity leadership. This year, I can’t make an educated prediction. I’m concerned about rank and file. Those who’ve come to ABC meetings are likely to vote for us, but there are so many more. I certainly hope more of us have decided voting is worth our while. That would work in our favor, and against Unity. I’m sure Unity thinks they will win, as they did last year. I’m just as sure if they don’t lose by a wide margin, they’ll cry foul and demand a do-over. They’ve done it before, and I don’t believe they’ve grown or changed much since 1985. They had no issue saying take it or leave it

### Key Points

- The article discusses the challenges and uncertainties faced by the ABC group in the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) election, highlighting the need for member-driven leadership to replace the Unity caucus. 

- The author expresses pride in their campaign and candidates, emphasizing their alternative vision for the union and criticizing Unity’s leadership as ossified and unresponsive. 

- Specific candidates like Amy Arundell, Daniel Alicea, Jessica Kim, Leah Lin, and Katie Anskat are praised for their dedication, energy, and contributions to the campaign. 

- The campaign faced challenges such as lack of resources, opposition from other caucuses, and accusations of antisemitism against their candidate Amy Arundell, which the author strongly refutes. 

- The article criticizes Unity for poor health care deals and lack of member input, focusing on the fight for better retiree health care, living wages for paraprofessionals, and improved member welfare. 

- Despite challenges, the campaign has pushed Unity to acknowledge inequities and make minor improvements, with hopes for continued progress regardless of election outcomes. 

The Uppity Minority: How They Will Come for You, Be Ready https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/05/28/the-uppity-minority-how-they-will-come-for-you-be-ready/ 

The article discusses the challenges faced by courageous leaders, particularly those from historically marginalized communities, when they disrupt the status quo in educational institutions. It highlights the case of Amani Reed, a leader of color who faced institutional retaliation after acting with integrity in response to a serious incident. The article provides a guide for such leaders to protect themselves from institutional betrayal and emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and courage in the face of systemic challenges.

### Key Points

- Courageous leaders, especially from marginalized communities, face retaliation when challenging the status quo. 

- Amani Reed, the first head of school of color at USN, faced backlash after addressing an incident with integrity. 

- Institutions often scapegoat leaders of color to maintain comfort and avoid accountability. 

- Leaders should protect themselves by negotiating contracts with clear terms and building supportive coalitions. 

- The article warns about "colluders" within institutions who betray their communities for personal gain. 

Teacher Tom: Here We Go Again: Blaming Everything But Standardized Schooling https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/05/here-we-go-again-blaming-everything-but.html 

Teaching and learning from preschoolers, Teacher Tom critiques the traditional schooling system, focusing on its reliance on standardized testing, external motivations, and outdated methods. He highlights the recurring blame on technology, Covid, and lack of accountability for student disengagement while arguing that the root cause lies in the schooling system itself. Tom advocates for play-based, self-directed learning as a more engaging and effective alternative, emphasizing intrinsic motivation and relevance to children’s lives.

### Key Points

- The article critiques the schooling system for prioritizing standardized testing over students’ needs and intrinsic motivation. 

- Blame for student disengagement is often misplaced on technology, Covid, or lack of accountability, ignoring the flaws in traditional schooling. 

- Play-based, self-directed learning is presented as a solution to foster genuine engagement and enthusiasm in education. 

- The author highlights the repetitive cycle of criticism about "kids today" and the failure to address systemic issues in education. 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Final Push Towards Seattle Schools' 2025-2026 Budget https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/05/final-push-towards-seattle-schools-2025.html?spref=tw 

Seattle Public Schools (SPS) is working on finalizing its 2025-2026 budget. While the district has managed to balance the upcoming year’s $1.35 billion budget, thanks to state aid and one-time measures, it still faces a long-term structural deficit. The budget relies on using reserves and making administrative cuts, but concerns remain about transparency, priorities, and the potential for future deficits. Community members and board directors have voiced frustration over the lack of significant changes in spending approaches and the district’s handling of school closures and staffing issues.

### Key Points

- SPS balanced its 2025-2026 budget using $42 million from reserves, $4 million from interest, and legislative aid, but long-term deficits remain a concern. 

- The district received only $26 million of the $60 million it hoped for from the state legislature, leading to reliance on reserves and administrative cuts. 

- Questions have been raised about the transparency of the "rainy day fund" usage, as it appears to be unspent funds from the previous year. 

- Librarian hours will not be cut, but some school-based staff, including social workers, have received reduction-in-force notices. 

- Concerns persist about the district’s spending priorities, lack of changes to instructional approaches, and the handling of school staffing. 

- Community members criticize the district for not addressing overcrowded classrooms and failing to manage waitlists effectively. 

- Skepticism surrounds the superintendent survey, with parents feeling it misses the mark on critical issues. 

- Discussions about potential school closures continue, with doubts about the financial benefits and transparency of such plans. 

NEW: Navigating (another) reading crisis as an administrator: Rethinking the “science of reading” movement (JSARD) https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/05/28/new-navigating-another-reading-crisis-as-an-administrator-rethinking-the-science-of-reading-movement-jsard/ via @plthomasEdD 

The article discusses the challenges and critiques surrounding the "science of reading" movement, particularly from an administrative perspective. It highlights the need to rethink current approaches to reading instruction and emphasizes the importance of addressing broader educational inequities and systemic issues.

### Key Points

- The article critiques the "science of reading" movement, urging administrators to reconsider its implications and effectiveness. 

- Broader educational issues such as inequity, systemic flaws, and the need for critical pedagogy are highlighted. 

- Topics like educational reform, literacy, and the influence of ideology on education are explored. 

- The importance of media accountability and addressing misinformation in education is emphasized. 

glen brown: The Morbidly Rich: "The Billionaire Hoarding Plague: How America’s Richest Became Its Biggest Threat" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-morbidly-rich.html 

The article critiques the growing wealth inequality in the U.S., linking it to the unchecked accumulation of wealth by billionaires, equating it to a form of mental illness called "Hoarding Syndrome." It argues that this obsession with wealth has destabilized democracy, widened economic disparities, and degraded public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The piece draws historical parallels with the Robber Barons and oligarchs of the past, advocating for reforms such as higher taxes on the wealthy, breaking up monopolies, and restoring democratic integrity.

### Key Points

- The rise of billionaires driven by "Hoarding Syndrome" has created a crisis for democracy and the economy. 

- Wealth inequality has led to stagnating wages, poor healthcare access, underfunded education, and environmental neglect. 

- Historical examples, like FDR's New Deal, show that tackling oligarchy and wealth concentration is possible through reforms. 

- The article calls for public awareness and political action to address these issues and rebuild the middle class. 

The language of resistance vs. dehumanization, by @mikeklonsky https://open.substack.com/pub/michaelklonsky/p/the-language-of-resistance-vs-dehumanization?r=kja7f&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false 

The article discusses the dangerous implications of dehumanizing language used by Donald Trump, particularly in his speeches labeling political opponents and immigrants with derogatory terms. It draws parallels between Trump's rhetoric and historical instances of dehumanization that have justified persecution and genocide. The article argues for the use of strong, hopeful language of resistance to counteract such rhetoric.

### Key Points

- Donald Trump's speeches at West Point and his Memorial Day message used dehumanizing language against political opponents, calling them "human scum," which echoes historical instances of dehumanization used to justify persecution. 

- The article criticizes Democratic leaders for being too cautious and argues for stronger, more hopeful language of resistance to counter Trump's rhetoric. 

- Historical examples of dehumanization, such as Nazi propaganda and the Rwandan genocide, are cited to highlight the dangers of such language. 

- Trump's language regarding immigrants, likening them to "poison" and associating them with "bad genes," is seen as conditioning his supporters to view certain groups as dangerous or inferior. 

Product Documentation for Meal Pattern Requirement - Nutrition (CA Dept of Education) https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/nu/mbsnp082025sfsp082025.asp 

Product Documentation for Meal Pattern Requirement provides guidance for Child Nutrition Program (CNP) operators on documenting processed food items to meet meal pattern requirements for programs like the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and Summer Food Service Program. It includes updates on the CN Label Verification System, documentation requirements for audits, and contact information for technical assistance. Recently added updates include waivers for meal service options in specific conditions and recalls for certain food items.

### Key Points

- Guidance on documenting processed food items for meal pattern compliance in CNPs, including the CN Label Verification System and administrative review process. 

- Contact information for assistance with CN labels, Product Formulation Statements (PFS), and administrative reviews. 

- Updates on accommodating participants with disabilities in meal programs and other administrative changes. 

- Recent waivers approved by USDA for meal service flexibility in specific conditions like excessive heat or poor air quality. 

- Recall notification for cucumbers due to potential health risks. 

What Europeans Think of Trump https://teacherinastrangeland.blog/2025/05/28/what-europeans-think-of-trump/ via @nancyflanagan 

A reflection on a two-week trip to the Czech Republic and Germany highlights European perspectives on the United States’ political climate, historical connections, and cultural differences. The author shares insights from visits to historically significant sites, interactions with locals, and observations about the impact of history on current European attitudes toward democracy, governance, and the U.S.

### Key Points

- The trip provided a lens into how Europeans view the U.S., especially under its current political leadership, with warnings against travel to the U.S. from several countries. 

- Historical and cultural observations in Prague and former East Germany highlighted the lingering effects of past regimes, such as Soviet control and the Velvet Revolution. 

- Guides shared personal stories and historical anecdotes, such as the Potsdam Conference, Dresden bombings, and the symbolic meeting of Allied and Russian armies in Torgau. 

- Reflections on East Germany touched on both socialist policies like free childcare and the brutality of Russian soldiers during occupation. 

- Berlin’s memorials, such as the book-burning square, emphasized the enduring lessons of history and the importance of hope and liberal democracy. 

- The overarching sentiment in Europe remains one of resilience, with a commitment to protecting democratic values despite challenges. 

10th Period: Data: Ohio Vouchers Clearly Unconstitutional | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/data-ohio-vouchers

### Key Points

- The article critiques Ohio's voucher system, highlighting that it disproportionately benefits wealthier families rather than assisting poor children, contrary to its original intent. 

- Voucher students in Ohio often perform worse on standardized tests compared to public school students, undermining claims that vouchers help students escape failing schools. 

- State funding for private school vouchers now exceeds per-pupil funding for public schools in many districts, contradicting earlier arguments about financial disincentives for private schools. 

- The blog questions why Ohio Republicans prioritize funding for private school parents over constitutionally required public school funding, especially without proper auditing. 

- The author urges accountability and transparency regarding the allocation of over $1 billion annually to private school tuition subsidies. 

Segregation Academies Across the South Are Getting Millions in Taxpayer Dollars - Schools Matter http://www.schoolsmatter.info/  

The article discusses the controversial expansion of school voucher programs in Southern states, particularly North Carolina, which were originally established to support segregation academies. These programs now funnel public funds into private schools, often benefiting predominantly white institutions while exacerbating racial and economic disparities. Critics argue that the programs drain resources from public schools and lack transparency, while proponents claim they provide families with more educational choices. The debate continues as voucher programs expand nationwide, raising concerns about state budgets and equitable access to education.

### Key Points  

- Segregation academies in the South, established during desegregation to serve white students, now receive millions in taxpayer-funded vouchers.   

- Many of these schools remain predominantly white and do not reflect the racial demographics of their communities.   

- North Carolina's Opportunity Scholarship program, launched in 2014, expanded eligibility to higher-income families, increasing participation but sparking debates about public education's future.   

- Voucher programs often fail to provide equitable access for Black families due to income disparities, lack of transportation, and additional tuition costs.   

- Critics argue that these programs perpetuate segregation and drain resources from public schools, while supporters claim they offer increased educational choice.   

- Transparency issues persist, as many states do not collect or share demographic data about voucher recipients and private school enrollments.   

- Southern states like Georgia, Alabama, and Florida have expanded voucher programs, further straining state budgets and public schools.   

- Some voucher recipients were already enrolled in private schools, adding costs to state budgets instead of shifting them.   

- Arizona’s universal voucher program has caused significant budget shortfalls, with critics warning about unsustainable long-term costs.   

- Proponents argue that competition from voucher programs can improve public schools, but critics highlight the challenges of funding parallel education systems.   

- Historical context links voucher programs to segregationist policies, with some schools maintaining their exclusionary practices.   

- Public school advocates emphasize that funding both private and public schools is financially untenable and harms public services. 

Divisible by Thirteen | JD2718 https://jd2718.org/2025/05/28/divisible-by-thirteen/ 

**Math Puzzle: Divisibility by 13**

- **Examples:**

  - 86 is not divisible by 13, but changing 8 to 2 makes it 26 (which is divisible).

  - 62 is not divisible by 13, but changing 2 to 5 makes it 65 (which is divisible).

**Question:**

- Is every 2-digit number either divisible by 13 or can be made divisible by 13 by changing one digit?

  - If yes, provide a convincing explanation for a high school freshman.

  - If no, provide a 2-digit number that is not divisible by 13 and cannot be made divisible by 13 by changing one digit.

An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294/ref=sr_1_1?

This article discusses Diane Ravitch's upcoming memoir, "An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else," set to be released on October 21, 2025. Ravitch, a historian and former conservative education reform advocate, recounts her ideological shift from supporting standardized testing and privatization to advocating for public schools and addressing systemic inequality in education. The book blends personal reflections with decades of research, making a compelling case for greater investment in public education.

### Key Points

- Diane Ravitch's memoir explores her ideological transformation from a proponent of conservative education reforms to a critic of privatization and standardized testing. 

- The book highlights her belief that poverty, not failing schools or bad teachers, is the root cause of educational inequality. 

- Ravitch shares her personal and professional journey, including her government service and advocacy for public schools. 

- The memoir combines personal anecdotes with research to argue for systemic changes in education, including better support for professional teachers. 

- Published by Columbia University Press, the book is 240 pages long and will be available in multiple formats. 

Big Education Ape: WE DON'T DO KINGS: NATIONWIDE PROTESTS TO RAIN ON TRUMP'S $45M BIRTHDAY MILITARY PARADE #NoKingsDay #DefendDemocracy #AmericaStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/we-dont-do-kings-nationwide-protests-to.html 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
5-28-25    

The article is a compilation of various blog posts and discussions addressing education reforms, political critiques, societal challenges, and activism. It highlights topics such as Trump administration policies, public education advocacy, literacy initiatives, privacy concerns, and broader political and social issues.

### Key Points  

- Diane Ravitch reflects on her 65th Wellesley College reunion, her breast cancer diagnosis, and her dog’s terminal illness, emphasizing resilience and community support.   

- A controversial provision in a Republican tax bill threatened to undermine judicial oversight of Trump’s executive orders but was reportedly removed from the final version.   

- The Kennedy Center’s season under Trump features shows with drag elements, contradicting his “family-friendly” claims.   

- A lawsuit against Lucy Calkins and other reading researchers over literacy programs was dismissed, highlighting debates between "Balanced Literacy" and the "Science of Reading."   

- Trump threatened to redirect Harvard’s research funding to trade schools and demanded a list of foreign students, raising concerns about academic freedom and research impacts.   

- The Trump administration faced criticism for undermining academic freedom, targeting universities, and promoting controversial education policies.   

- Satirical commentary humorously portrays a fictional “breakup” between Trump and Putin, reflecting global political tensions.   

- Advocacy for public education emphasizes organizing locally, combating misinformation, and linking education to broader justice movements.   

- NYC parents and advocates demand a delay in voting on student privacy regulation A-820, citing concerns over data misuse and lack of parental consent.   

- Arizona’s school voucher program is criticized for lack of oversight, benefiting affluent families, and undermining public education.   

- Diane Ravitch’s upcoming memoir explores her ideological shift from supporting conservative education reforms to advocating for public schools.   

- California launched a statewide Literacy-Biliteracy Professional Learning Pack to enhance literacy instruction for young learners.   

- Teacher Tom critiques the dismissal of animal consciousness by Western science and advocates for inclusive perspectives on truth and wisdom.   

- Trump's rhetoric, including calling opponents “scum,” is criticized for dehumanization and its risks to democracy.   

- Trump’s threats of retribution against opponents and misuse of executive power are highlighted as authoritarian tendencies.   

- Larry Cuban critiques billionaire-driven education reforms for lacking accountability and transparency.   

- Nationwide protests are planned against Trump’s $45M birthday military parade, emphasizing resistance to authoritarianism.