Trump jumps into Republican primaries for governor in South Carolina, Iowa and Oklahoma

Politics — 2026-05-30 09:31:00 — www.politico.com

COLUMBIA, S.C. — President Donald Trump has endorsed three Republican gubernatorial candidates, intensifying the competition for his support in South Carolina, Iowa, and Oklahoma. In a series of social media posts, Trump backed South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Iowa Rep. Randy Feenstra, and former Oklahoma state senator Mike Mazzei as the primary elections approach.

### Key Endorsements

Iowa’s primary is set for Tuesday, followed by South Carolina’s on June 9 and Oklahoma’s on June 16. These elections mark the first competitive Republican gubernatorial primaries in years for all three states.

Evette has served alongside South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, a prominent Trump ally since the former president’s first campaign. Earlier this year, McMaster endorsed Evette, signaling that Trump’s endorsement could follow. Trump expressed appreciation for Evette, noting her support during his 2024 campaign and highlighting that a potential running mate for her could be Henry McMaster Jr., the governor’s son.

In a separate post, Trump described Feenstra as “MAGA all the way,” asserting that he would “fight tirelessly” for Iowa on critical issues like the economy, border security, and law enforcement. Both Evette and Feenstra have actively sought Trump’s endorsement, believing it could significantly influence their campaigns in states pivotal to Trump’s political future.

### Competitive Landscape

Evette faces competition from Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Ralph Norman, and state Attorney General Alan Wilson in South Carolina. Meanwhile, Feenstra is up against four other Republicans, including state Rep. Eddie Andrews and businessman Zach Lahn, in Iowa. In Oklahoma, Mazzei is running against state Attorney General Gentner Drummond and former state House Speaker Charles McCall, among others.

Trump’s endorsement of Mazzei was emphatic: “Mike Mazzei has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Oklahoma — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” he declared on social media.

### Conclusion

As the primaries approach, Trump’s endorsements underscore his continued influence within the Republican Party. His backing not only serves as a significant boost for the candidates but also reflects the ongoing dynamics of loyalty and competition among GOP members. With the primaries looming, the candidates will be keenly aware of the weight Trump’s words carry in their respective races.

Source article

Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/05/30/trump-jumps-into-republican-primaries-for-governor-in-south-carolina-iowa-and-oklahoma-00943600

EEOC moves to scrap tools used to fight discrimination : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-06-01 04:00:00 — www.npr.org

Trump Administration’s Shift on Employment Discrimination Data Collection

The Trump administration has initiated significant changes to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), particularly in its approach to collecting data on employment discrimination. This shift could undermine decades of progress in addressing workplace discrimination against women and people of color.

EEOC’s Proposed Changes

Under President Trump, the EEOC is seeking to end its annual data collection of employee demographics, known as EEO-1 data, which has been instrumental in identifying patterns of discrimination in hiring and promotions. This data collection has historically required companies with 100 or more employees to report information about the race, ethnicity, sex, and job categories of their workforce. Over the years, the EEOC has used this data to secure billions in settlements for workers facing discrimination.

The proposed changes also include rescinding a 1979 regulation that allowed employers to implement measures aimed at addressing race and gender imbalances revealed by the data. Andrea Lucas, the Trump-appointed chair of the EEOC, has expressed concerns that programs aimed at helping specific groups may be unlawful if they exclude others. She stated, "Regardless of what has happened before, the way to stop discriminating based on race is to stop discriminating based on race. The end. Full stop."

Historical Context

The 1979 regulation was established to provide a framework for companies to remedy past discrimination by allowing them to take race and gender into account in a positive way. This included mentoring programs and hiring targets aimed at increasing the representation of minorities and women in the workplace. The Supreme Court has upheld this framework in landmark cases, affirming that affirmative action plans can be lawful if they do not unnecessarily trample the interests of white employees.

However, experts worry that the proposed changes could lead to a regression in civil rights enforcement. Chai Feldblum, a former EEOC commissioner, noted that the Weber-Johnson standard, which supports affirmative action, remains the law, but its future could be uncertain if the Supreme Court decides to revisit these cases.

Impact on Discrimination Enforcement

The elimination of the EEOC’s annual data collection could significantly hinder the agency’s ability to enforce anti-discrimination laws. Without this data, the EEOC would face challenges in identifying discriminatory practices and patterns within companies. For instance, in a notable case against Bass Pro Shops, the EEOC was able to use demographic data to uncover discriminatory hiring practices that disproportionately affected Black and Hispanic applicants.

Karla Gilbride, a former EEOC general counsel, emphasized that without access to this data, protecting workers from discrimination would become much more difficult. The need for subpoenas to obtain data would complicate enforcement efforts and slow down investigations.

Misuse of Data Claims

Lucas has also raised concerns about the misuse of demographic data by companies, suggesting that some have used it to justify discriminatory practices against white employees and men. She believes that only lawyers and human resources personnel should have access to this information, arguing that public commitments to diversity made by companies after the murder of George Floyd have led to unlawful decision-making based on race or sex.

Conclusion

The Trump administration’s proposed changes to the EEOC’s data collection practices represent a significant shift in civil rights enforcement that could undermine decades of progress in combating workplace discrimination. As the agency moves toward these changes, the implications for workers and the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws remain to be seen. The ongoing debate over the balance between affirmative action and equal treatment under the law continues to evolve, raising critical questions about the future of workplace equality in America.

Source article

Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/06/01/nx-s1-5827069/trump-eeoc-discrimination-dei-data

How Trump Reversed Biden’s Crackdown on Guns — ProPublica

ProPublica — 2026-06-01 04:00:00 — www.propublica.org

Trump Administration’s Impact on Gun Enforcement: A Closer Look

The Trump administration’s approach to gun enforcement has drawn significant scrutiny, particularly regarding its policies that have led to a notable decrease in the prosecution of gun trafficking cases. Under Trump’s leadership, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) referred 30% fewer gun-trafficking charges during his first year compared to the previous year, while the number of referrals that prosecutors declined also increased. This shift has raised concerns among public safety advocates and law enforcement officials about the potential long-term consequences for gun violence in the United States.

Shift of Resources from Gun Enforcement to Immigration

One of the most significant changes during Trump’s presidency was the redirection of ATF resources. Large numbers of ATF agents were reassigned from enforcing gun laws to assisting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in its campaigns against undocumented immigrants. This shift has been characterized as a "whole of government approach" to combat illegal immigration, as stated by ATF spokesperson Tanya Roman. However, this reallocation of resources has led to a decline in the enforcement of gun trafficking laws, prompting alarm among those concerned about rising gun violence.

Reversal of the Zero-Tolerance Policy

In a move that has been widely criticized, Trump reversed a Biden-era crackdown on gun stores that violate the law. The zero-tolerance policy, which mandated that dealers found willfully violating the law would lose their licenses, was replaced with a more lenient approach. This change resulted in a staggering 69% reduction in the number of dealers losing their licenses, raising questions about the effectiveness of current gun regulations and the potential for increased illegal gun sales.

Consequences for Public Safety

Experts warn that the implications of these policy changes could be dire. The illicit gun trade is often described as a "pipeline problem," where the effects of reduced enforcement may not be immediately visible but can manifest over time. Research indicates that the typical "time to crime" for trafficked firearms can extend up to three years, suggesting that the negative impacts of the Trump administration’s pullback on gun enforcement may still be forthcoming.

Marianna Mitchem, a former associate assistant director for industry operations at the ATF, expressed her concerns about the current state of gun trafficking enforcement. After leaving the ATF, she joined Everytown, a gun-safety group, and emphasized the importance of monitoring trafficking pipelines. "Just because no one is watching the trafficking pipelines right now doesn’t mean guns aren’t flowing through it," she stated. "It just means they’re not being intercepted."

Conclusion

The Trump administration’s policies have significantly altered the landscape of gun enforcement in the United States, leading to fewer prosecutions for gun trafficking and a shift in focus toward immigration enforcement. As experts and advocates warn of the potential long-term consequences of these changes, it remains crucial for lawmakers and the public to engage in discussions about the future of gun regulation and public safety. The ongoing debate underscores the need for a balanced approach that addresses both gun violence and immigration issues without compromising the enforcement of critical laws designed to protect communities.

Source article

Source: https://www.propublica.org/article/how-trump-reversed-biden-gun-crackdown-atf

Donald J. Trump: “Iran really wants to make a deal, and it will be a good one for the U.S.A. a…

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-06-01 00:02:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump’s Negotiation Claims: A Closer Look at His Recent Statements

In a recent statement, former President Donald Trump asserted that "Iran really wants to make a deal, and it will be a good one for the U.S.A. and those that are with us." He went on to criticize what he described as "Dumocrats" and "various seemingly unpatriotic Republicans," claiming that their constant criticism makes it "MUCH tougher for me to properly do my job and negotiate." Trump suggested that political dissenters are hindering his ability to navigate complex negotiations, urging them to "just sit back and relax," as he believes "it will all work out well in the end – It always does!"

Misleading Claims on Negotiation Dynamics

Trump’s assertion that Iran is eager to negotiate has been met with skepticism by experts who point out that Iran’s actions and rhetoric often contradict this claim. The former president’s framing of the situation suggests a simplistic view of international diplomacy, overlooking the complexities involved in negotiations with a nation that has a history of contentious relations with the U.S.

Moreover, Trump’s comments about the impact of political criticism on his negotiation capabilities raise questions about accountability. While he attributes his challenges to external pressures, critics argue that effective leadership requires navigating dissent and criticism rather than deflecting blame onto political opponents.

The Role of Political Dissent

Trump’s characterization of dissenting voices as "political hacks" reflects a broader trend in his rhetoric, where he often dismisses criticism as unpatriotic or harmful. This approach not only undermines constructive dialogue but also polarizes the political landscape, making it more challenging to achieve bipartisan support on critical issues such as foreign policy.

Conclusion: The Importance of Accountability in Leadership

In summary, Trump’s recent statements regarding Iran and the challenges he faces in negotiations highlight a pattern of oversimplification and deflection. While he claims that external criticism hampers his ability to negotiate effectively, the reality of international diplomacy is far more nuanced. As discussions around Iran continue, it is crucial for leaders to engage with dissenting opinions constructively and remain accountable for their actions. The complexities of foreign relations demand a more sophisticated approach than the one Trump has presented.

Source article

Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/38975

News Wrap: Judge orders Kennedy Center to remove Trump’s name from building

PBS NewsHour – Politics — 2026-05-29 17:50:00 — www.pbs.org

Federal Judge Orders Removal of Trump’s Name from Kennedy Center

In a significant legal setback for Donald Trump, a federal judge has ordered the Kennedy Center to remove his name from the building. Judge Christopher Cooper ruled that the venue’s board violated the law, stating, “Congress gave the Kennedy Center its name, and only Congress can change it.” In response to the ruling, Trump announced he would pursue a full and complete transfer of responsibility for the Kennedy Center to Congress.

Trump’s Meeting on Iran Deal Yields No Announcements

President Trump spent approximately two hours in the White House Situation Room, where he aimed to make a final determination regarding a potential deal to end the ongoing conflict with Iran. However, no announcements were made following the meeting. U.S. officials described the potential agreement as a memorandum of understanding that would open the Strait of Hormuz and initiate further negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program and the lifting of U.S. sanctions. Contrarily, Iranian officials insisted that the current negotiations do not involve the nuclear issue, with key negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf asserting, “No step will be taken before the other side acts.”

Legal Challenges to Trump’s Anti-Weaponization Fund

In another legal development, a federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s proposed anti-weaponization fund, which was intended to allocate $1.8 billion to compensate individuals claiming they were targeted by the justice system. The judge’s order halts the fund’s formation and any potential payouts for at least two weeks. The fund has faced challenges in multiple lawsuits and has drawn bipartisan criticism from lawmakers, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune.

Ongoing Issues with Immigration Enforcement

In Texas, an ICE agent was arrested in connection with the nonfatal shooting of a Venezuelan man during the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota earlier this year. The agent, Christian Castro, faces charges of assault and falsely reporting a crime. This incident is part of broader concerns regarding officer conduct during the controversial immigration policies implemented under Trump’s administration.

International Tensions and Domestic Developments

As international tensions continue, Israel has escalated its military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, despite a cease-fire that has had little effect. Israeli forces have pushed deeper into Lebanese territory, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declaring that the fighting will remain relentless. Meanwhile, Romania reported that a Russian drone crashed into an apartment building near its border with Ukraine, marking the first known incident of this nature on NATO soil since the onset of the conflict.

As the political landscape evolves, Trump’s legal challenges and international negotiations remain at the forefront of national discourse, highlighting the complexities of his administration’s legacy.

Source article

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/news-wrap-judge-orders-kennedy-center-to-remove-trumps-name-from-building

Trump vents about judge who blocked Kennedy Center changes

Donald Trump — 2026-05-31 06:23:00 — www.politico.com

Trump Claims Unfair Treatment Amid Legal Setbacks

In a recent statement reflecting his frustration over ongoing legal challenges, Donald Trump asserted that it is “impossible for me to be treated fairly.” This comment underscores his long-standing narrative of victimization in the face of legal scrutiny.

Trump’s remarks come as he faces multiple legal issues, including investigations and lawsuits that have raised questions about his conduct during and after his presidency. His claim of unfair treatment is not new; he has frequently characterized legal actions against him as politically motivated attacks.

History of Disparagements and False Claims

Throughout his political career, Trump has made numerous statements that have been fact-checked and found to be misleading or false. For instance, he has often exaggerated the size of his electoral victories and made unfounded claims about voter fraud. These patterns of behavior contribute to a broader narrative where he positions himself as a target of unfair treatment by the legal system and media.

As Trump continues to navigate these legal challenges, his rhetoric remains a focal point for supporters and critics alike, highlighting the contentious nature of his relationship with the judicial process.

In conclusion, Trump’s assertion of unfair treatment reflects a broader strategy of framing legal challenges as partisan attacks, a tactic he has employed consistently. As the legal landscape evolves, it will be crucial to examine the implications of his statements and the factual accuracy behind them.

Source article

Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/05/31/trump-vents-about-judge-who-blocked-kennedy-center-changes-00943727

Trump jumps into Republican primaries for governor in South Carolina, Iowa and Oklahoma

Politics — 2026-05-30 09:31:00 — www.politico.com

COLUMBIA, S.C. — President Donald Trump has endorsed three Republican gubernatorial candidates, intensifying the competition for his support in South Carolina, Iowa, and Oklahoma. In a series of social media posts, Trump backed South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Iowa Rep. Randy Feenstra, and former Oklahoma state senator Mike Mazzei as the primary elections approach.

### Key Endorsements

Iowa’s primary is set for Tuesday, followed by South Carolina’s on June 9 and Oklahoma’s on June 16. These elections mark the first competitive Republican gubernatorial primaries in years for all three states.

Evette has served alongside South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, a prominent Trump ally since the former president’s first campaign. Earlier this year, McMaster endorsed Evette, signaling that Trump’s endorsement could follow. Trump expressed appreciation for Evette, noting her support during his 2024 campaign and highlighting that a potential running mate for her could be Henry McMaster Jr., the governor’s son.

In a separate post, Trump described Feenstra as “MAGA all the way,” asserting that he would “fight tirelessly” for Iowa on critical issues like the economy, border security, and law enforcement. Both Evette and Feenstra have actively sought Trump’s endorsement, believing it could significantly influence their campaigns in states pivotal to Trump’s political future.

### Competitive Landscape

Evette faces competition from Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Ralph Norman, and state Attorney General Alan Wilson in South Carolina. Meanwhile, Feenstra is up against four other Republicans, including state Rep. Eddie Andrews and businessman Zach Lahn, in Iowa. In Oklahoma, Mazzei is running against state Attorney General Gentner Drummond and former state House Speaker Charles McCall, among others.

Trump’s endorsement of Mazzei was emphatic: “Mike Mazzei has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Oklahoma — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” he declared on social media.

### Conclusion

As the primaries approach, Trump’s endorsements underscore his continued influence within the Republican Party. His backing not only serves as a significant boost for the candidates but also reflects the ongoing dynamics of loyalty and competition among GOP members. With the primaries looming, the candidates will be keenly aware of the weight Trump’s words carry in their respective races.

Source article

Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/05/30/trump-jumps-into-republican-primaries-for-governor-in-south-carolina-iowa-and-oklahoma-00943600

Trump says he will headline fair on National Mall after artists drop out : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-05-31 16:04:00 — www.npr.org

Trump Suggests 250th Birthday Celebration Should Be a MAGA Rally

President Trump has proposed that the upcoming event celebrating America’s 250th birthday be transformed into a Make America Great Again rally, following the withdrawal of several artists from the lineup of the Great American State Fair. The fair, scheduled to begin on June 25 on the National Mall, initially included performers like Martina McBride, Morris Day and the Time, The Commodores, and Poison’s Bret Michaels, all of whom have since opted out.

Artists Withdraw Amid Concerns

Martina McBride explained her decision to withdraw in a social media post, stating that she was initially presented with an opportunity to perform at “a nonpartisan event but that turned out to be misleading.” She expressed her disappointment, saying, “In my mind I thought this was a great way to celebrate the states and also bring people together in the way that only music can. I saw it as just a bigger version of so many state fairs I have performed at over the years, celebrating community and what makes each state special.” McBride noted that changes began occurring that contradicted what she had been told.

Despite the withdrawals, some artists, like Vanilla Ice, have confirmed their participation, emphasizing that the event is “not a political platform” but rather a celebration of America’s birthday.

Trump’s Criticism of Withdrawn Performers

In a series of social media posts over the weekend, Trump disparaged the artists who backed out, labeling them as “Third Rate.” He stated that he would deliver a speech aimed at rallying the nation “forward like I have done ever since being President!” Furthermore, he suggested that the event should be canceled in favor of a rally, declaring, “We should have a giant MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN RALLY, for 250, instead of having overpriced singers, who nobody wants to hear, whose music is boring, and yet who do nothing but complain.”

Concerns Over Event’s Nonpartisan Nature

The Great American State Fair is being organized by Freedom 250, a public-private group collaborating with the White House for the 250th anniversary celebrations. However, Trump’s involvement has raised eyebrows, with critics arguing that the celebrations are more focused on him than on the nation as a whole. Democratic lawmakers and watchdog organizations, including Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, have questioned the transparency of private donations funding the event.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, involved in planning the celebration, defended the event’s nonpartisan nature during an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union. He stated, “It’s not about the transparency of the donors. This is about Americans celebrating the 250th anniversary.”

Conclusion

As the nation approaches a significant milestone in its history, the debate surrounding the 250th birthday celebration highlights the intersection of politics and public events. Trump’s suggestion to pivot the celebration into a rally underscores ongoing tensions regarding the nature of national celebrations and the role of public figures within them. With artists withdrawing and questions about funding transparency, the event’s future remains uncertain as it draws closer.

Source article

Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/05/31/nx-s1-5841889/trump-america-250-state-fair-artists-rally