May Day 2026 Toolkit | NEA
https://www.nea.org/mayday-toolkit
TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS
APRIL 26, 2026
Here are the top news stories as of April 28, 2026, grouped by category. Coverage draws from major outlets reporting over the weekend into Monday, with the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting and US-Iran tensions dominating headlines.
U.S. News
- Shooting at White House Correspondents' Dinner: An armed gunman (identified as Cole Allan/Thomas Allen in reports) charged a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton event on Saturday night, exchanging gunfire with law enforcement before being subdued. President Trump and senior officials were evacuated from the ballroom. The suspect faces formal charges today, with writings indicating rage at perceived "traitors" and possible targeting of Trump administration figures. No fatalities reported among attendees, but the incident has sparked widespread security concerns.
- Severe weather outbreak: Deadly tornadoes struck North Texas over the weekend, killing multiple people, with millions across the Midwest, Plains, and other areas under alerts for more severe storms, high winds, and flooding this week. Georgia faces drought-fueled wildfires.
- King Charles III and Queen Camilla's state visit: The British royals arrived for a high-profile visit amid US-UK tensions, greeted by the Trumps. Security reviews intensified due to the recent shooting and broader geopolitical rifts.
Politics
- Trump leverages shooting for White House renovation push: Following the dinner incident, President Trump renewed calls for a new grand ballroom in the East Wing (after earlier unapproved demolition). Republicans, including Sen. Rand Paul, now back legislation to advance the project, citing enhanced security needs.
- Ongoing fallout from the Correspondents' Dinner attack: Heightened debate over political violence, security for public officials, and rhetoric. Trump addressed the event in interviews; some reports note online history of the suspect and questions about Secret Service protocols.
- Fed chair nomination update: Sen. Thom Tillis dropped his hold on Kevin Warsh's nomination to lead the Federal Reserve.
- Immigration/DACA developments: Justice Department moves making it easier to deport some with DACA status; other enforcement actions reported.
World Affairs
- US-Iran conflict and Hormuz tensions: Iran offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping if the US lifts its port blockade and the war ends, while delaying nuclear talks. Trump administration reviewing the proposal; earlier plans for envoys (including Jared Kushner) to Pakistan for ceasefire talks were canceled or adjusted. Death tolls reported in related strikes; diplomatic efforts continue amid global economic ripple effects.
- King Charles visit amid transatlantic strains: The royal trip aims to mend US-UK ties strained by differing stances on Iran, with Trump previously criticizing UK leadership. Security and protests add layers.
- Middle East updates: Reports of Israeli strikes in Lebanon and Gaza despite ceasefires; broader regional fallout from Iran conflict.
Education
- Heatwave impacts schools: Several regions (e.g., Noida and parts of India, with US parallels in weather alerts) adjusted timings or holidays due to extreme heat. US stories less dominant but tied to broader severe weather disruptions.
- Higher education policy shifts: Trump administration initiatives highlighted for "ending gender extremism" in athletics/scholarships and redirecting funds from underused programs toward workforce needs.
- Exam and results season: Updates on board exams (e.g., CISCE Class 10, Himachal Pradesh) and disruptions at institutions like FTII.
Economy
- Markets brace for major week: Focus on upcoming FOMC interest-rate decision (April 28-29), other central bank moves (Bank of Japan, ECB, BOE), and big tech/earnings reports. Consumer confidence data and home price indices due. Geopolitical risks (Iran) weigh on sentiment.
- Global growth concerns: IMF notes weaker outlook amid Middle East conflict and trade uncertainties, with energy and supply chain disruptions from Hormuz tensions.
- Sector moves: Chip stocks volatile amid AI deals; broader resilience noted in some US equities despite shocks.
Technology
- OpenAI-Microsoft shifts: OpenAI dropped exclusivity elements in its deal with Microsoft, potentially opening doors for other partnerships (e.g., Amazon). Ongoing tensions with Elon Musk and legal developments.
- AI and deal news: China blocked Meta's $2B acquisition of AI startup Manus. Other developments include AI in smartphones, new funding for human-data-free learning models, and debates over AI regulation/public opinion.
- Broader tech: Reports on 6G enabling robotics, cyberattacks linked to conflicts, and surveillance uses (e.g., facial recognition).
Health
- US measles surge: Nearly 1,800 cases reported in 2026 so far (on pace to exceed recent years), with 22 new outbreaks. Officials monitoring potential loss of elimination status.
- Brain health innovation: NTT DATA launched an AI-driven service using driving data to monitor brain health and promote healthy longevity/safe driving.
- Other studies: Research linking pesticide exposure to higher cancer risk and ongoing work on chronic pain, gut bacteria/depression, and supplements.
Sports
- NBA Playoffs: Series action including Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks (Game 5) and Portland Trail Blazers vs. San Antonio Spurs. Ongoing first-round matchups with key player updates (e.g., injuries, standout performances).
- MLB: Dodgers hosting Marlins (Shohei Ohtani starting); Phillies vs. Giants and other games.
- Other: NFL draft reactions (e.g., Seahawks, Giants, Jets winners/losers); college rugby championships; golf (PGA Professional Championship); Warriors coaching decisions involving Steph Curry and Draymond Green.
News evolves quickly, especially around the shooting investigation, Iran diplomacy, and weather. Check reliable sources for live updates.
- The Trump administration, under Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, has been reallocating federal education funds, often bypassing Congress and transferring programs to other federal departments.
- McMahon, with a background in professional wrestling, has been criticized for her unconventional approach to politics and governance.
- Federal funding for key education programs like Title I and IDEA will continue to be distributed through the Department of Education's grant portal, although some programs have been shifted to other departments like Labor and Health and Human Services.
- The Trump administration reallocated over $1 billion in education funds, diverting money from certain programs to others, including charter schools, civics instruction, and minority-serving institutions while cutting funding for teacher preparation and public television.
- Congress has taken steps in the fiscal 2026 budget to restrict the administration's ability to reprogram funds, but concerns remain about potential "pocket rescissions" by the Office of Management and Budget.
How to Get RICH Quick? Open a School in NC! https://dianeravitch.net/2026/04/27/how-to-get-rich-quick-open-a-school-in-nc/ via @dianeravitch
- The article highlights how opening a private school in North Carolina is remarkably easy and profitable due to minimal state regulations, including no strict facility, teacher certification, curriculum, or testing requirements.
- Schools can operate in unconventional spaces, hire unlicensed staff, and are not required to follow state academic standards or conduct public testing.
- Private schools can selectively admit students, excluding those with disabilities, while still receiving state funding.
- Oversight is minimal, with limited audits and reports, allowing some schools to exploit the system by inflating enrollment numbers or operating without proper accountability.
- The state offers significant financial incentives, paying up to $7,942 per student annually, with most voucher recipients already attending private schools.
- A pro-voucher advocacy group is funded by the state to market the program and attract applicants, reducing the need for private schools to spend on advertising.
Miami-Dade Board Reluctantly Approves Five Schools for Controversial NYC Charter Chain https://dianeravitch.net/2026/04/27/miami-dade-board-reluctantly-approves-five-schools-for-controversial-nyc-charter-chain/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Miami-Dade School Board approved five new Success Academy charter schools despite limited review time and concerns.
- Success Academy, funded by billionaires, plans to enroll 8,000-10,000 students in Miami and expand across Florida.
- Co-location with public schools may lead to tensions due to resource disparities and impact on students with disabilities.
- Success Academy has been criticized for strict rules, selective admissions, and lobbying for charter school funding.
Big Education Ape: BATTLING BILLIONAIRE BABIES OF AI (DON'T WORRY AI WILL FIX ALL OF OUR PROBLEMS) https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/battling-billionaire-babies-of-ai-dont.html
The article delves into the high-profile legal battle between Elon Musk and Sam Altman/OpenAI, focusing on allegations of mission drift, breaches of charitable trust, and unjust enrichment. Musk accuses OpenAI of betraying its original nonprofit mission to prioritize profit, while OpenAI counters that Musk is acting out of competitive motives and personal grievances. The trial, set to begin on April 27, 2026, will address whether OpenAI's transition to a for-profit entity violated its founding principles. The case has exposed internal drama, governance issues, and billionaire rivalries, raising broader questions about AI governance and the balance between altruism and commercialization.
### Key Points
- The legal battle between Elon Musk and OpenAI centers on claims of mission drift from nonprofit to for-profit, with Musk seeking damages and leadership changes.
- Musk alleges OpenAI breached a charitable trust and unjustly enriched its leaders, demanding up to $134 billion in damages and the removal of Sam Altman and Greg Brockman.
- OpenAI defends its for-profit pivot, citing the need for funding and competitive pressures, and claims Musk supported commercialization early on but left due to disagreements.
- Greg Brockman's personal diary has emerged as a key piece of evidence, revealing internal ethical dilemmas and discussions about OpenAI's transition.
- The trial raises broader legal questions about nonprofit-to-for-profit transitions and fiduciary duties, with potential implications for the AI industry and governance.
- Musk's motives are questioned due to his ownership of rival company xAI, suggesting competitive interests rather than purely altruistic concerns.
- The case has exposed internal drama, including texts, emails, and governance failures, damaging reputations on both sides.
- Legal experts predict potential outcomes ranging from monetary damages to structural changes, but a complete undoing of OpenAI's corporate structure is considered unlikely.
- The article critiques the spectacle of billionaires using public courts for personal rivalries and advocates for mediation and regulatory solutions to address governance issues.
Big Education Ape: EDUCATION: THE GOOD NEWS AND THE BAD NEWS (SPOILER: THE BAD NEWS HAS A SUBSCRIPTION FEE) #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #ProtectStudentData #BreakUpBigTech #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/education-good-news-and-bad-news.html
THE GOOD NEWS AND THE BAD NEWS (SPOILER: THE BAD NEWS HAS A SUBSCRIPTION FEE)
### Key Points
- Politicians are now emphasizing the importance of education, but their solutions are driven by billionaire-funded think tanks and edtech companies, which monetize education through subscription-based platforms.
- Two contrasting conversations about education reform exist: one led by billionaires, politicians, and think tanks with little teaching experience, and another by actual teachers who understand child development and pedagogy.
- The "Science of Reading" and "Science of Math" movements are being used as profit-making schemes by billionaires and edtech companies, creating mandates for tools and platforms that turn students into data points.
- Teachers argue that effective education is relational, adaptive, holistic, and properly funded, not driven by monetized, scripted solutions.
- Billionaires and policymakers pushing education reforms often have financial interests in the solutions they propose, prioritizing profit over genuine student development.
- Activists are organizing for May Day 2026 to advocate for teacher-led reforms and to challenge the commercialization of public education.
- The article calls for public support to protect education as a public good, demand transparency in policy-making, and listen to teachers over corporate interests.
Big Education Ape: LOOKING BACK: THE WEEK IN REVIEW SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/looking-back-week-in-review-sunday_0964824620.html
The article is a compilation of recent updates and discussions regarding public education, focusing on themes such as AI in schools, data privacy, anti-privatization efforts, environmental health in education, and standardized testing opposition. It highlights the work of the blog "Big Education Ape," which serves as a hub for education advocacy and critiques of corporate influence in education. The content also includes global education news and U.S. policy updates.
### Key Points
- The blog "Big Education Ape" serves as a news aggregator focusing on public education advocacy, anti-privatization, and critiques of education reform.
- A growing coalition is calling for a moratorium on AI in public schools due to privacy concerns and the need for further study of its impact on students.
- Coverage of a $17.25 million settlement involving PowerSchool and Chicago Public Schools over student data privacy violations.
- Criticism of the privatization of public schools, including charter school expansion and corporate-run "turnaround" models that may exclude vulnerable student groups.
- Concerns raised about the environmental impact of AI data centers and the lack of investment in physical school infrastructure.
- Opposition to standardized testing, with claims that tests prioritize data collection for corporations over measuring student learning.
- U.S. education updates include a Title VI probe into NYC schools, proposed federal rules tying student aid to graduate earnings, and changes to Pell Grant eligibility.
- Global education updates include initiatives on climate literacy, youth empowerment, and a shift toward human-centric education amidst the rise of AI.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POSTS APRIL 26, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0283077091.html
The article provides an extensive overview of recent news and developments across various domains, including politics, education, global affairs, technology, economy, and health. Key highlights include updates on President Trump's administration, U.S.-Iran tensions, education reforms, AI advancements, and controversies surrounding public policies and initiatives.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: APRIL 26, 2026 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/morning-news-update-april-26-2026.html
The article provides a comprehensive overview of recent news and developments across various fields, including U.S. politics, world affairs, education, economy, technology, health, and sports. Key events include a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, U.S.-Iran tensions, debates over education policies, economic forecasts, advancements in AI, and updates on major sports events.
Big Education Ape: COFFEE WITH SPACEMEN: WHAT ROCKET JOCKEYS TAUGHT ME ABOUT THE WAR ON PUBLIC SCHOOLS #MayDayStrong #WorkersOverBillionaires #PublicSchoolsProducedAstronauts #NoKings https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/coffee-with-spacemen-what-rocket.html
The article discusses the importance of public schools in producing scientific talent and astronauts, highlighting the role of public education in significant achievements like the Space Age. It criticizes current trends in education, such as the focus on standardized testing, the impact of school choice on resources, and the increasing reliance on AI in classrooms, arguing that these trends undermine the quality of science education. The article calls for action to prioritize public education and protect it from privatization.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS WEEK 4-19-26 TO 4-25-26 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2026/04/the-top-news-stories-this-week-4-19-26.html
The article provides a comprehensive roundup of the top news stories as of April 25, 2026, across multiple categories, including U.S. news, politics, world affairs, education, economy, technology, health, and sports. Among the highlights are geopolitical tensions involving the U.S. and Iran, developments in education policies, advancements in technology such as AI and space exploration, economic challenges like inflation and stagflation fears, and updates on sports events. It also addresses several domestic policy changes under the Trump administration, including civil rights issues, budget proposals, and international trade disputes.
The Best Resources Highlighting What English Language Learner Students Want From Their Teachers Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/
- The blog provides resources and strategies for educators, with a focus on English Language Learners (ELL), including teaching methods, lesson plans, and research-based instructional techniques.
- Recent posts cover topics such as effective teaching strategies, the benefits of a non-zero-sum mindset, Arbor Day resources, and interactive methods in social studies.
- Highlights include curated resources for special days like World Penguin Day and the Day of Remembrance for Victims of Chemical Warfare.
- Education Week survey results on teaching English learners are shared, alongside a review of meta-analyses on math instructional strategies.
- The blog author has published books and resources for educators, focusing on social studies, math, science, and ELL, as well as strategies for student motivation and parental involvement.
- Additional content includes a radio show, Q&A posts on classroom management, and educational articles for the New York Times Learning Network.
Teacher Tom: Learning to Make Decisions https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/04/learning-to-make-decisions.html
### Key Points
- A preschooler exhibits a relaxed and thoughtful demeanor, savoring moments rather than rushing, even when encouraged by his mother to enter school.
- The child appears to be listening to his "inner voice" before making decisions, which highlights the complexity and stress of decision-making even for young children.
- Decision-making is a skill that must be learned and practiced, as young children navigate between instinctive reactions and social expectations.
- Stress from decision-making can arise even in small choices, and habits help adults reduce this stress, though young children have yet to develop such strategies.
- Play is essential for children to practice decision-making, learn consequences, and develop habits in a safe environment. It is a crucial process for understanding and managing stress.
Early Childcare Attendance and Cognitive skills in Adolescence Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Early childcare attendance improves academic achievement, particularly in math scores, with significant benefits for children of less-educated mothers and children of immigrants.
- Children use augmented reality (AR) differently from adults, favoring physical, exploratory, and creative interactions. AR tools designed specifically for children could enhance learning outcomes.
- High social media use is linked to increased odds of alcohol use among adolescents, with gay/lesbian youth showing even higher odds. Digital literacy and safer online navigation are essential.
- Negative parenting behaviors, male sex, and older age are associated with higher risks of gaming addiction in children with ADHD. Positive parental involvement can mitigate these risks.
- Teenagers thrive when parents balance monitored freedom with support, fostering independence, trust, and a sense of purpose. Parental affection, communication, and shared activities are key to their well-being.
- Heavy drinking among college students leads to cognitive impairments the following day, including memory lapses and difficulty making decisions. Blackout drinking significantly exacerbates these effects.
- Georgia becomes the first universal pre-K state to meet all 10 preschool quality benchmarks, setting an example for other states to improve both access and quality in early education programs.
glen brown: This is not the first time Trump has faced political violence. What stands out after the latest attack? https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/04/this-is-not-first-time-trump-has-faced.html
### Key Points
- The U.S. has been experiencing increased political violence since January 6, 2021, and recent events highlight its dangers.
- Political polarization creates a hostile environment where opposing parties view each other as immoral or evil, normalizing violence.
- Divisive and dehumanizing political rhetoric fosters extremism and motivates violence.
- Disinformation, especially on social media, plays a key role in radicalizing individuals and fueling political violence.
- Assaults on democratic norms and institutions have eroded public trust in governance, exacerbating political tensions.
- Historical parallels to current political violence include the Civil War era, post-World War I labor conflicts, and the 1960s Civil Rights Movement.
- Unified condemnation of political violence by leaders across the political spectrum is crucial to reducing its prevalence.
Haruki Murakami's 7 Stories "It's quite easy to become Men Without Women" PAUL THOMAS https://paulthomas701128.substack.com/p/haruki-murakamis-7-stories
### Key Points
- Haruki Murakami’s novel *The Tale of Kaho* is his first full-length work featuring a sole female protagonist, sparking renewed scrutiny of his portrayal of women.
- Murakami’s short story collection *Men Without Women* examines male loneliness and their struggles with relationships, often portraying flawed and emotionally dependent men.
- Signature elements of Murakami’s fiction, such as The Beatles, jazz, quirky narration, and hints of the supernatural, are present throughout the collection.
- Stories like *Scheherazade* and *Samsa in Love* stand out for their nuanced exploration of loneliness and intimacy while still walking the line between objectifying women and portraying meaningful connections.
- Murakami pays homage to Franz Kafka in *Samsa in Love*, reimagining *The Metamorphosis* with a surreal yet emotionally charged narrative.
- The collection ends with the title story, reinforcing themes of longing, loss, and loneliness among men.
McMahon Continues Dismantling Dept. of Education. Will She Succeed? https://janresseger.wordpress.com/2026/02/26/mcmahon-continues-dismantling-dept-of-education-will-she-succeed/ via @janresseger
- Senator Paul Wellstone emphasized the importance of equal education as a fundamental right for all citizens, warning that neglecting this principle threatens national unity and purpose.
- The Trump administration's approach to education policy, including attempts to dismantle the Department of Education, has created uncertainty and concern among advocates for equitable public education.
- Education Secretary Linda McMahon is actively working to dismantle the Department of Education by transferring its programs to other federal agencies through temporary interagency agreements.
- President Trump signed an executive order to shut down the Department of Education in 2025, but congressional approval is required to fully eliminate the department or its programs.
- Efforts to block the transfer of education programs to other agencies have faced challenges, with Congress unable to pass binding restrictions against these moves.
- A nonbinding explanatory statement accompanying the education budget strongly criticized the fragmentation of education responsibilities across multiple federal agencies, citing inefficiencies and harm to vulnerable students.
- Legal challenges have been filed to oppose the interagency agreements, with lawsuits highlighting their potential harm to K-12 and higher education systems.
- Despite opposition, Linda McMahon continues to pursue temporary agreements to prove the feasibility of transferring education programs, aiming to eventually convince Congress to approve the department's restructuring.
- Specific programs, including Title I and special education, have been transferred to agencies like the Department of Labor and Health and Human Services, raising concerns about funding cuts and administrative challenges.
- Critics, such as Rep. Bobby Scott, argue that these actions circumvent legal processes and undermine the future of public education.
Education in Two Worlds: Which Crisis in Education? | National Education Policy Center https://nepc.colorado.edu/blog/which-crisis-education
- The concept of an education "crisis" in the U.S. has been a recurring theme since the 1980s, but some argue this crisis is manufactured to serve political agendas.
- The real crisis is not academic failure but societal issues, such as the impact of corporate practices on youth health and the misrepresentation of educational outcomes.
- American students and teachers are achieving high standards, but flawed testing systems and comparisons with other countries unfairly portray them as underperforming.
- Historical shifts, such as the invention of artificial fertilizers and the birth control pill, contributed to societal changes, including a transition from a "pro-natal" to an "anti-natal" culture, which influenced attitudes toward education funding.
- The "crisis" in education is linked to the declining willingness of affluent and predominantly white populations to fund public education for marginalized groups, leading to privatization efforts like vouchers and charter schools.
- The division between "us" (privileged groups) and "them" (marginalized groups) has exacerbated inequities in the education system, reflecting a loss of collective responsibility toward public education.
Even More Cartoons on AI https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2026/04/27/even-more-cartoons-on-ai-3/ via @CubanLarry
When the Phone Rings and the Email Lands – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/04/27/when-the-phone-rings-and-the-email-lands/
### Key Points
- Life-changing moments often come unexpectedly, through a phone call or an email, and challenge one's sense of purpose and commitment.
- The author applied for a Fulbright Program opportunity in Brazil, focusing on rebuilding education systems post-political disruption, but the proposal was ultimately rejected by the US State Department.
- The rejection highlighted the gap between community-recognized value and political priorities, as well as the deeper loss of connection and collaboration opportunities with the Brazilian university.
- Shortly after, the author was invited to join the Michigan Black Student Project, an initiative by the Michigan Education Justice Coalition aimed at addressing systemic inequities in education, including culturally responsive teaching and the school-to-prison pipeline.
- The project emphasizes community-centered education policies and the importance of equitable funding, inclusive practices, and representation in schools.
- The author reflects on the journey of meaningful work, emphasizing resilience, purpose, and the importance of continuing efforts despite setbacks.
Curmudgucation AI Is Not For Amateurs PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/ai-is-not-for-amateurs
- A report from the Education Law Center in Pennsylvania highlights the issue of "preschool pushout," where children of color and those with special needs are excluded from preschool programs through formal or informal means such as suspension or expulsion.
- The report includes testimonies from parents like Irelyn, whose son Xavier, a 5-year-old with autism, was removed from a preschool program without solutions or support, despite initial assurances from the school.
- Another parent, Barbara, shared her experience of her African-American child, Hannah, who has autism and ADHD, being repeatedly sent home from preschool, causing trauma for both the child and her family.
Weekend Quotables - by Michael Klonsky https://klonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-08f
**Was it staged? Probably not.**
At a recent gathering, the question of whether an event was staged arose. The consensus was that if it were staged, it wouldn't have appeared so. Here are six reasons people suspected staging:
1. **Easy Access for the Gunman:** Comparisons were made to high-security breaches, raising suspicions about the "secure" perimeter.
2. **Low-Budget Footage:** The single-camera, low-resolution footage lacked the chaos typically expected in real violence, leading to perceptions of it being staged.
3. **Casual Political Response:** Trump's immediate analysis after being rushed off stage seemed overly polished, suggesting narrative engineering when self-promoting rhetoric outpaced verified facts.
4. **Branding and Promotion:** Trump claimed the shooting wouldn’t have happened if a secure ballroom had been built at the White House.
5. **Eerie Timing of Comments:** Karoline Leavitt's remark about "shots fired" before the event raised eyebrows.
6. **Trump's Media Manipulation Image:** His history of creating crises for political advantage leads people to suspect intentionality in chaotic events.
**Post-Shooting Comments:**
Trump compared himself to Lincoln, expressing honor at being targeted. He also stated the need for a secure ballroom, emphasizing its features on Truth Social.
**Political Commentary:**
- Stephen Miller labeled Democrats negatively, reflecting divisive rhetoric.
- Richard Haass indicated the U.S. is losing strategic ground to Iran.
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted the humiliation of Iran and questioned American strategy.
- Netanyahu stated that American taxpayers fund Israeli weapons.
**Trump's Response in an Interview:**
When confronted about a manifesto's claims against him, Trump vehemently denied the allegations, expressing outrage at the media for discussing it.
This and That, April 27, 2026 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2026/04/this-and-that-april-27-2026.html
### Key Points
- Seattle Public Schools Board has committee meetings on April 29, 2026, including discussions on policy updates, legal verbiage, grants, and calendar planning.
- Topics for a Special Meeting include "goals and guardrails," student cellphone use policies, and the proposed closure of the Middle College at Seattle Central College.
- Superintendent Shuldiner aims to increase enrollment, address attendance issues, and improve financial stability by 2031.
- Proposal to establish districtwide cellphone usage rules: "Away for the Day" for K-8 and "No Cell, Bell to Bell" for high schools.
- The relocation of Middle College from Seattle Central College to North Seattle College is planned, raising concerns about accessibility and potential teacher reductions.
- Declining enrollment at Middle College is noted following multiple relocations, while the North Seattle College site has seen growth.
- The district plans to sell properties, including a parking lot at Franklin High School and a small house near Leschi Elementary.
- Historical issues around nepotism and job promotions based on personal connections within the district are discussed.
Who Does the Federal Budget Actually Work For? Not Our Children New Data: The Federal Government Spends 10 Times More Per Person on Seniors Than on Children and Young Adults BRUCE LESLEY https://brucelesley.substack.com/p/who-does-the-federal-budget-actually
### Key Points
- Federal spending on children has been declining for decades, with only 8.57% of the budget allocated to children in FY 2025, down from 11.98% in 2021.
- Seniors (65 and older) receive 62% of federal spending, working-age adults receive 28%, and children and young adults (under 26) receive just 10%. Per capita, seniors receive $43,700, working-age adults $7,300, and children/young adults $4,300.
- Spending on children is concentrated in a few means-tested programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, CHIP, child nutrition, education, and child care assistance. These programs are often targeted for budget cuts.
- Structural issues in the federal budget process disadvantage children’s programs, as they rely on discretionary funding that must be renewed annually, lack dedicated revenue streams, and are often capped.
- Older adults tend to vote more, and middle-aged adults support senior programs, while children, viewed as politically weak, receive less attention from lawmakers.
- The case for investing in children is supported by strong evidence, including economic benefits such as reducing child poverty and improving long-term outcomes like education and health.
- Public opinion strongly supports increased spending on children, with voters across all demographics and political affiliations believing the government spends too little on children’s welfare.
- Women in Congress are more likely to advocate for children’s issues, and the Congressional Dads Caucus has emerged as a group of male lawmakers prioritizing children’s welfare.
- Successful political campaigns in Virginia and New Jersey show that championing children’s issues can be an electoral advantage.
- Younger generations, particularly younger men, are becoming more engaged in children’s issues, narrowing the historical gender gap in support for child-related policies.
- Both conservative and liberal political ideologies are increasingly recognizing the importance of investing in children, driven by concerns over declining birth rates and economic consequences of child poverty.
- Child advocacy organizations face funding instability, which threatens their ability to provide evidence-based advocacy for children’s programs.
- The article calls for public action, including contacting policymakers, making children a voting issue, donating to child advocacy organizations, and raising awareness about underinvestment in children.
Choosing Democracy: Speaking Truth: And May Day https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/04/speaking-truth-and-may-day.html
- The article discusses the importance of defending democracy, particularly through public schooling and nonviolent mass mobilization efforts.
- It highlights the role of organizations like Indivisible in organizing large, peaceful protests to defend constitutional rights and counter authoritarianism.
- Accusations are made against Trump, labeling him as an authoritarian who undermines democracy, violates the Constitution, and serves personal and elite interests.
- Indivisible supports the May Day Strong coalition, which plans national economic disruption events as a peaceful protest against authoritarianism and potential election sabotage.
- Emphasis is placed on the use of truth, strategic nonviolence, and economic power as tools to combat authoritarian regimes.
- The article criticizes attempts to blame pro-democracy movements for political violence and calls for continued vocal opposition without sugarcoating the truth.
- The blog post encourages participation in May Day events and highlights the necessity of keeping democratic values alive through active organizing.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Here are the top news stories involving the Trump administration for Tuesday, April 28, 2026:
1. State Arrival Ceremony for King Charles III
President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosted a formal State Arrival Ceremony on the South Lawn this morning for King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
2. Diplomatic Friction over "Digital Tax" Tariffs
Despite the ceremonial pomp, tensions remain high as President Trump threatened new tariffs on the United Kingdom.
3. Iran Conflict Escalation
U.S. officials report that President Trump is "unhappy" with the latest proposal from Tehran aimed at ending the two-month-old war. The ongoing conflict has significantly disrupted global energy supplies and continues to fuel domestic inflation concerns.
4. Proposed "White House Ballroom" & Security Funding
Following a security breach at a media dinner last Saturday, Republicans in Congress are fast-tracking a $400 million bill to fund a new ballroom and underground security infrastructure at the White House.
5. EPA Budget Slashed by 50%
In a hearing today before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended the President’s FY 2027 budget request.
6. USTR Forced Labor Hearings Begin
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) began two days of public hearings today regarding Section 301 investigations. The focus is on whether 60 different economies are effectively enforcing bans on goods produced with forced labor, a move that could lead to further trade restrictions.
7. Freedom of Navigation in the Strait of Hormuz
Following a weekend call with Keir Starmer, the administration is coordinating with international allies to restore shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz.
8. "Presidential AI Challenge" Highlights
During the King's visit, the First Lady highlighted the Presidential AI Challenge at the White House Tennis Pavilion.
9. Federal Charges for Dinner Gunman
Federal prosecutors announced formal charges against the individual who attempted to storm last Saturday's dinner.
10. Tonight’s State Dinner
The day concludes with a high-profile State Dinner in the East Room. While the guest list remains closely guarded, it is expected to include top business leaders and key members of the Cabinet, serving as a backdrop for further bilateral discussions between the President and the King.