An artist’s ‘I.C.E. pop’ exhibition was shut down within days at a Texas university : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-07-12 04:00:00 — www.npr.org

The White House, under President Trump, has withheld billions of dollars from federally-funded universities whose diversity and inclusion policies do not align with those of the administration. This move mirrors actions taken by several state legislatures, including Texas, which began abolishing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at state-funded colleges and universities in 2023 through a state senate bill.

This policy has had a direct impact on institutions such as the University of North Texas (UNT), where an art exhibition by Victor “Marka27” Quiñonez—focused on the dual cultural identity of U.S. Latinos—was abruptly shut down. The closure came amid a broader national trend of universities reversing DEI efforts and heightened political discourse around free speech and inclusion on campuses.

The Trump administration’s stance has contributed to an environment where universities face financial penalties for maintaining DEI initiatives, leading to increased caution and, in some cases, the removal of programming that addresses issues of race, identity, and immigration. The situation at UNT is emblematic of the chilling effect these policies have had on academic freedom and student expression across the country.

As universities navigate these pressures, students and faculty report a climate of fear and uncertainty, with some traditions and open discussions being curtailed. The ongoing debate over DEI policies and federal funding continues to shape the landscape of higher education, raising critical questions about the balance between government policy and institutional autonomy.

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Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/07/12/nx-s1-5783832/ice-pop-texas-victor-marka27-quinonez-artist

Donald J. Trump: "RT: https://truthsocial.com/users/realDonaldTrump/statuses/116908044067369620"

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-12 20:42:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump Claims to Order Flags Lowered Nationwide for Lindsey Graham

In a statement, Donald Trump declared, “In honor of the remarkable life and achievements of Senator Lindsey Graham, a dear friend of mine, and a truly great man, who achieved so much for our Country, and his beloved Home State of South Carolina, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until Saturday evening at 6 P.M. GOD BLESS YOU LINDSEY!”

Examining the Claim

Trump’s statement asserts that he is ordering all American flags across the United States to be lowered to half-mast in honor of Senator Lindsey Graham. This claim raises important questions about presidential authority and the current status of Graham.

Authority to Order Flags Lowered

The power to order the lowering of American flags on federal property rests with the sitting president, not a former president. The statement does not clarify whether Trump currently holds office or is issuing this as a private citizen. If Trump is not the sitting president, he does not have the legal authority to issue such an order.

Status of Lindsey Graham

Trump’s statement is written as if Senator Lindsey Graham has passed away, referring to Graham in the past tense and honoring his “remarkable life and achievements.” However, there is no factual basis in the excerpt to confirm Graham’s death, and the statement itself serves as the only source for this claim.

Conclusion

Trump’s declaration that he is ordering all American flags to be lowered nationwide for Lindsey Graham is misleading. The authority to issue such an order does not rest with him unless he is the sitting president, and the statement appears to present unverified information about Graham’s status. This episode highlights the importance of verifying claims and understanding the limits of presidential authority. Readers should be cautious about accepting such statements at face value without corroborating evidence.

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Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/39968

Will Trump's Justice Department rescue Messi's Argentina?

Politics — 2026-07-11 18:15:00 — www.politico.com

After returning to office last year, President Donald Trump paused for several months all enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, a U.S. law that makes it a crime to bribe foreign officials overseas. Trump previously called it a “horrible law,” a stance that has fueled confusion about the administration’s willingness to use American courts and law enforcement to pursue corruption cases that extend beyond U.S. borders.

This shift in policy comes as the FBI and at least three Justice Department prosecutors are reportedly investigating alleged corruption involving Argentina’s national soccer body and a Florida-based company, TourProdEnter LLC, which handled promotional deals for the Argentine Football Association. The investigation, confirmed by both Argentina’s La Nacion newspaper and the Miami Herald, has not yet resulted in any charges, and those linked to TourProdEnter have denied wrongdoing.

Trump’s criticism of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act stands in contrast to previous administrations, which used the statute to prosecute international corruption cases, including a major probe into FIFA that began more than a decade ago. That investigation, launched under President Barack Obama, led to a dozen convictions and the toppling of FIFA’s leadership. Trump’s administration, however, has deprioritized such cases, with Justice Department officials citing other priorities like counterterrorism and combating violent gangs.

The ongoing probe into Argentina’s soccer operations raises questions about whether the Trump administration will continue to pursue cases with limited U.S. connections, or if new evidence has emerged that aligns with current Justice Department policy. The FBI has declined to comment on the specifics of the case.

Trump’s open disdain for the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and his administration’s pause in enforcement mark a significant departure from the U.S. government’s previous approach to international corruption. As investigations continue, the administration’s stance leaves uncertainty about the future of cross-border anti-corruption efforts.

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Source: https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/07/11/world-cup-2026/trump-department-justice-argentine-football-association-corruption-investigation-00994061

[No Title] – Post from July 12, 2026

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-12 17:12:00 — trumpstruth.org

In a recent address to the United Nations General Assembly, President Donald Trump made several claims that have been scrutinized for their accuracy. Among these, he asserted that he had “ended seven wars” and stated that European countries were “going to hell” due to their immigration policies.

Claim: Ending Seven Wars

President Trump declared that his administration had “ended seven wars.” However, this statement lacks substantiation. Analyses indicate that while the U.S. has reduced its military presence in certain regions, it has not officially concluded seven distinct wars during his tenure. The complexities of international conflicts and the absence of formal peace treaties or resolutions contradict this assertion.

Claim: European Countries “Going to Hell” Due to Immigration

Trump’s remark that European nations are “going to hell” because of their immigration policies is a stark generalization. This statement overlooks the multifaceted nature of immigration and its varied impacts across different countries. While some nations have faced challenges integrating immigrants, others have benefited economically and culturally. Such a sweeping claim does not account for these nuances and lacks empirical support.

These instances underscore the importance of critically evaluating statements made by public officials. Fact-checking serves as a vital tool in discerning rhetoric from reality, ensuring that public discourse is informed by accurate information.

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Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/39965

With Lindsey Graham Gone, Ukraine Loses an Ally in Trump’s Ear

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-12 16:38:00 — www.nytimes.com

Donald Trump Praises Lindsey Graham as Ukraine Loses Key Ally

Donald Trump, speaking on CNN after the announcement of Senator Lindsey Graham’s death, described Graham as “a very strong military person” and praised him as one of his closest advisers. Trump also said he had spoken with Graham shortly before his passing and noted that the senator was tired after returning from Ukraine.

Graham’s death marks a significant loss for Ukraine, as he was the country’s most influential champion within Trump’s political circle. Graham’s unique position—combining an unwavering belief in a strong American role abroad with direct access to Trump—allowed him to repeatedly press the president to support Ukraine’s fight against Russia, even as Trump and his advisers favored a more isolationist, “America-first” approach.

Throughout his tenure, Graham often deferred to Trump when the president resisted supporting Ukraine’s battle for survival. However, Graham’s advocacy was instrumental in urging Trump to confront Russia directly and ensure Ukraine received critical military aid. In the days before his death, Graham was actively working to secure bipartisan support for new sanctions on Russia and had recently facilitated a pledge from Trump to allow Ukraine to produce Patriot air-defense systems—a move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called a “positive signal.”

Trump’s comments following Graham’s death highlight the senator’s influence within the administration and underscore the shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities under Trump’s leadership. While Graham remained committed to a robust American presence on the global stage, Trump’s administration has consistently leaned toward disengagement and skepticism of foreign entanglements.

As Ukraine faces ongoing threats from Russia, the loss of Graham’s advocacy raises questions about the future of U.S. support, especially given Trump’s track record of prioritizing domestic concerns over international alliances. The coming months will test whether Graham’s efforts to bridge divides and secure aid for Ukraine will endure without his direct involvement.

In summary, Trump’s praise for Graham underscores the senator’s pivotal role in shaping U.S. policy toward Ukraine—a role that may now be difficult to fill as the administration continues to prioritize an inward-looking agenda.

Source article

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/12/us/lindsey-graham-ukraine.html

Politics chat: Lindsey Graham dies at 71, Congress back in session, U.S. strikes Iran : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-07-12 06:57:00 — www.npr.org

Trump Blocks Bipartisan Housing Bill, Escalates Tensions with Iran Amid Senate Turmoil

President Donald Trump has once again placed himself at the center of controversy in Washington, this time by refusing to sign a bipartisan housing bill that had garnered broad support in Congress. According to NPR, Trump declined to hold a signing ceremony for the popular legislation, stating he would not sign it in protest of the Senate’s failure to pass another bill he wanted regarding elections. Despite repeated explanations from Republican senators that there were not enough votes to pass his preferred elections bill, Trump’s refusal effectively stalled a measure that polls show is important to a majority of voters struggling with high housing costs.

The housing bill, which aimed to make it easier to build homes by reducing regulations, passed with significant bipartisan majorities. Its passage was seen as a rare example of cross-party cooperation on an issue that directly affects Americans. However, Trump’s decision to block the bill prevented Congress from celebrating a legislative achievement that could have resonated with voters ahead of the midterms.

In addition to domestic legislative gridlock, Trump has heightened international tensions. He posted online that “1,000 missiles are locked and loaded and aimed at the Islamic Republic of Iran,” responding to threats from Iranian leaders following recent U.S. and Israeli military actions. Trump has also declared the ceasefire with Iran over, further escalating the situation after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz and defied U.S. demands for assurances of safe passage.

These actions come as the Senate faces increased instability following the sudden death of South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham and ongoing questions about the health of Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell. With the Senate majority razor-thin, Trump’s refusal to cooperate on bipartisan legislation and his aggressive foreign policy stance are adding to the challenges facing Congress.

Conclusion

President Trump’s decisions—both in blocking a widely supported housing bill and in escalating threats against Iran—underscore his willingness to disrupt bipartisan progress and heighten international tensions, even as the Senate grapples with internal upheaval. These moves have left lawmakers and voters alike questioning the administration’s priorities and the prospects for meaningful legislative action in the months ahead.

Source article

Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/07/12/nx-s1-5887274/politics-chat-lindsey-graham-dies-at-71-congress-back-in-session-u-s-strikes-iran

Donald J. Trump: “Thank you to Ben Domenech, for all of the great things he has been saying. W…

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-12 13:50:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump Claims “Our Country Has Never Been Stronger” Amid Praise for Allies

President Donald J. Trump recently expressed gratitude to commentator Ben Domenech for his supportive remarks, stating, “Thank you to Ben Domenech, for all of the great things he has been saying. We’re doing well. Our Country has never been stronger, and it’s nice to be recognized!” Trump also highlighted the recognition of Senator Lindsey Graham, saying, “it is really great that Lindsey Graham is being so respectfully honored — He greatly deserves it!”

Fact-Checking Trump’s Claims of National Strength

Trump’s assertion that “Our Country has never been stronger” is a sweeping statement that lacks specific evidence in the excerpt provided. Historically, such claims have often been challenged by independent fact-checkers, who point to ongoing economic, social, and political challenges facing the United States. While Trump’s supporters may echo his optimistic outlook, objective measures—such as economic indicators, public health data, and international relations—often present a more nuanced picture.

Praise for Allies and Public Recognition

In his statement, Trump also commends Lindsey Graham, emphasizing the senator’s recognition and stating that Graham “greatly deserves it.” This continues Trump’s pattern of publicly praising loyal allies, which he often uses to reinforce his political alliances and project unity within his circle.

Conclusion

President Trump’s recent remarks continue his tradition of making broad, positive claims about the state of the nation and highlighting the achievements of his supporters. However, his statement that “Our Country has never been stronger” is not substantiated with concrete evidence in this excerpt and stands in contrast to a range of ongoing national challenges. As always, such claims warrant careful scrutiny and comparison with objective data to provide a full picture for the public.

Source article

Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/39958

Sen. Lindsey Graham dies after a ‘brief and sudden illness,’ his office says

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-12 08:37:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump Reacts to Lindsey Graham’s Death, Recalls Final Conversation

Donald Trump, speaking after the death of Senator Lindsey Graham, described Graham as “like a member of the family” and called the news “very tough.” Trump stated on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that he had spoken with Graham on Saturday night after the senator returned from a trip to Ukraine, saying Graham “sounded a little bit tired, but perfect.”

Graham, a longtime ally of Trump in Congress, was known for his influential role in shaping U.S. foreign policy and for advising Trump on issues such as Iran and Russia. Their relationship, initially contentious during the 2016 presidential race—when Trump publicly read out Graham’s personal cellphone number and repeatedly belittled him—later evolved into a close political alliance after Trump won the White House.

While the excerpt does not document any new false claims or disparagements by Trump regarding Graham’s death, it highlights Trump’s public response and the history of their relationship, including Trump’s earlier attacks on Graham during the 2016 campaign. The article also notes Graham’s pivotal role in defending Trump during his impeachments and his ongoing support for Trump’s foreign policy initiatives.

Trump’s comments following Graham’s passing reflect the senator’s unique position as both a critic and a confidant, underscoring the complex dynamics that defined their political partnership.

Source article

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/sen-lindsey-graham-dies-after-a-brief-and-sudden-illness-his-office-says

Trump Mourns Graham as ‘Great Politician’ and ‘Member of the Family’

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-12 11:37:00 — www.nytimes.com

Trump Praises Lindsey Graham, Reflects on Final Conversation and Political Legacy

President Trump publicly mourned the death of Senator Lindsey Graham on Sunday, describing him as a “great politician” and “like a member of the family.” Speaking on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Trump reflected on Graham’s ability to work with both Democrats and Republicans, stating, “He had a unique ability — he was able to deal with Democrats and Republicans. If I had a problem with a Democrat, he could work it out. He was a great politician, actually.”

Trump recounted that he spoke with Graham just hours before the senator’s death, discussing the SAVE America Act, a voter identification bill Trump has been urging Congress to pass. According to Trump, Graham “sounded perfect” during their call, though the senator mentioned he was “tired” after returning from a trip to Ukraine.

The president expressed uncertainty about the cause of Graham’s death, which the senator’s office attributed to “a brief and sudden illness.” When asked about reports of cardiac arrest, Trump responded that it “made sense,” adding, “It had to be something like that because he was, other than being tired, he was fine. And so it had to be something like that, that would just be a quick end. And maybe that’s not the worst way to go.”

Trump declined to name a preferred replacement for Graham but indicated he was considering “somebody that I think would be great.” South Carolina law allows Governor Henry McMaster to appoint a temporary replacement, with a special election expected on August 11.

Reflecting on Graham’s career, Trump praised the senator’s defense of Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s 2018 Supreme Court nomination as “literally, one of the great classics of anyone in the Senate.” He also acknowledged Graham’s reputation as a military hawk and his recent efforts to impose sanctions on buyers of Russian oil.

Trump’s remarks were delivered with a somber tone, emphasizing the personal loss and political impact of Graham’s passing. “I never thought I’d be in this position,” Trump said, adding that he believed “Lindsey was going to be living forever.”

Conclusion

Trump’s statements highlight both his close personal relationship with Graham and the senator’s influence in Washington. The president’s recollections offer insight into Graham’s final hours and underscore his role in recent legislative efforts, particularly on voter identification and foreign policy. As South Carolina prepares to fill Graham’s Senate seat, Trump’s comments set the stage for the political transition ahead.

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Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/12/us/politics/donald-trump-lindsey-graham-death-interview.html

Live updates: Trump, nation mourn Lindsey Graham after senator's sudden death

Administration News — 2026-07-12 06:47:00 — thehill.com

President Trump Praises Lindsey Graham as “One of the Greatest People” Following Senator’s Sudden Passing

Americans awoke Sunday to the news that Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a fixture in the U.S. Senate for over two decades, had died at age 71 after a brief and sudden illness. President Trump, who relied on Graham as a steadfast supporter, responded to the news by describing the late senator as “one of the greatest people.”

Trump’s statement underscores the close political alliance the two shared in recent years. While Graham was once a critic of Trump, he became one of the president’s most vocal defenders, particularly during key moments of Trump’s administration and subsequent political campaigns.

The president’s characterization of Graham as “one of the greatest people” aligns with his pattern of offering strong praise for allies, especially in moments of public attention. However, Trump’s record also includes a history of making exaggerated or false claims about political figures, both allies and opponents. In this instance, the president’s remarks focus on honoring Graham’s legacy and the loyalty he demonstrated.

As the nation reflects on Graham’s career and his relationship with Trump, the president’s words serve as a reminder of the shifting alliances and rhetorical strategies that have defined his public statements. Trump’s tribute highlights the importance he places on personal loyalty and public support, themes that have been central to his political narrative.

In conclusion, President Trump’s response to Lindsey Graham’s passing emphasizes their political partnership and the value he places on loyalty among his supporters. The statement offers insight into how Trump publicly navigates the loss of key allies, reinforcing his approach to political relationships and public messaging.

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Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5964452-live-updates-senator-lindsey-graham-death/