Liberal Reporting for 2026-04-18
Today’s news coverage from liberal media sources.
When Anti-War Candidates Become War-Monger Presidents
Matt Duss, former foreign policy adviser to Sen. Bernie Sanders, on how Democrats can win on an anti-war platform and bring about real change. The post When Anti-War Candidates Become War-Monger Presi...
The Intercept
Apr 17, 2026 - theintercept.com
Will Trump Pardon Ghislaine Maxwell? Her Lawyer Thinks So.
Florida attorney David Oscar Markus has made a career of representing controversial clients. His next challenge is trying to get Ghislaine Maxwell out of prison.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
‘We are not going back’: Iran war forces global energy shift
Nations split over doubling down on fossil fuels or accelerating renewables.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
Chris Wright faced a big test this week. Republicans say he passed.
Republicans are standing by the Energy secretary, who was on Capitol Hill answering for the fallout from the Iran war.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
Florida’s special session could burnish DeSantis’ legacy — but pitfalls lurk
The GOP governor launched an ambitious final policy push that could face severe backlash and leave his last year in office trickier as he begins to assess his future.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
A Republican Dark Money Group Blankets Virginia With Deceptive Mailers Ahead of Redistricting Vote
Beginning in early March, Virginia voters, particularly members of the Black community, began receiving mailers that compared a proposal by Democrats to temporarily redraw the state’s congressional di...
Mother Jones
Apr 17, 2026 - motherjones.com
Canada’s Conservatives ask Carney: Where’s that US trade deal?
Pierre Poilievre targets prime minister on tariffs and economy.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
Is Donald Trump Going to Hell?
Was that lightning in the distance? The sound of God’s fury thundering over the White House? Probably not. But thanks to a series of incendiary moves by Republican lawmakers, it sure feels as though w...
Mother Jones
Apr 17, 2026 - motherjones.com
Meet the new power players raising massive money for the midterms
Campaign finance reports show how new industries are preparing to spend big on elections.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
Diplomatic cables show Iran war is damaging US on multiple fronts across the world
The documents show the fallout for the US in Bahrain, Indonesia and Azerbaijan as it struggles to catch up with pro-Iran messaging.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
A Protester Threw a Snowball. Federal Agents Responded With Tear Gas and Pepper Balls.
The post A Protester Threw a Snowball. Federal Agents Responded With Tear Gas and Pepper Balls. appeared first on ProPublica.
ProPublica
Apr 17, 2026 - propublica.org
Republicans Exploit an Obscure Law to Open This Pristine Minnesota Wilderness to Mining
This story was originally published by the Grist and is reproduced here as part of the Climate Desk collaboration. Minnesota’s Boundary Waters comprise a vast stretch of wilderness bordering Canada, w...
Mother Jones
Apr 17, 2026 - motherjones.com
Meta Threw a Party for a Right-Wing Influencer Who Wants to “Save the West”
Last week, conservative influencer Isabel Brown celebrated 100 episodes of her podcast, where she sings the praises of motherhood, frets about the dangers of open borders, and asks rhetorical question...
Mother Jones
Apr 17, 2026 - motherjones.com
Strait of Hormuz reopening for commercial traffic, Trump and Iran say
The president said the U.S.'s blockade on Iranian shipping in the region will remain in effect, and lambasted allies for their lack of support.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
An unabashed progressive dominates in New Jersey, another midterm warning sign for Republicans
Analilia Mejia, a former top Bernie Sanders staffer, convincingly won a House seat despite "radical" label.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
Donald Trump’s Latest Crypto Corruption: A Mar-a-Lago Party for His Coin Buyers
Gas prices are sky high. A war in Iran is far from over. Airlines are running out of jet fuel. And the GOP is stumbling into an important midterm season. So who is Donald Trump making time for on his ...
Mother Jones
Apr 17, 2026 - motherjones.com
Live Nation lost in court. Here’s what it means for concerts.
Protesters rally against the live entertainment ticket industry outside the US Capitol in 2023. | Drew Angerer/Getty Images This story appeared in Today, Explained, a daily newsletter that helps you...
Vox
Apr 17, 2026 - vox.com
This Isn’t Just Trump’s War on Iran. Both Parties Paved the Way for Disaster.
We must recognize Democrats share responsibility with the GOP for creating the climate that made such a war possible.
Truthout
Apr 17, 2026 - truthout.org
Senate sends spy law extension to Trump amid GOP fight
The measure would renew the warrantless surveillance program through April 30.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
Senate passes short-term extension of surveillance law – US politics live
Senators pass 10-day extension by voice vote after House defeated attempts for five-year and 18-month extensions on Thursday nightUS Congress passes 10-day extension of surveillance law amid Republica...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Why Pete Hegseth’s Tarantino Blunder Wasn’t the Least Bit Surprising
On Wednesday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth introduced a religious service at the Pentagon by offering a prayer, which he said he had learned from military leaders. “They they call it CSAR 25:17,”...
Mother Jones
Apr 17, 2026 - motherjones.com
Israel’s “Black Wednesday” Massacre Leaves Lebanese Families Giving DNA to ID Loved Ones’ Remains
In Lebanon, an unprecedented campaign of DNA tests is being used to identify mangled bodies left trapped under rubble by Israel’s blitz. The post Israel’s “Black Wednesday” Massacre Leaves Lebanese Fa...
The Intercept
Apr 17, 2026 - theintercept.com
An expert forecasts how the Iran war could hit your budget
Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine speaks as he displays a map showing the United States Navy's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz during a press briefing at the Pentagon on April 16, 202...
Vox
Apr 17, 2026 - vox.com
Carney secured a majority in Parliament. Conservatives say voters were betrayed.
The Liberal government clinched a majority Monday after winning three special elections, bolstered by five aisle-crossers.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - politico.com
ICE’s hiring spree led to influx of recruits with questionable qualifications, investigation shows
Patchy employment records, bankruptcies and allegations of wrongdoing blemish the records of several new recruitsSign up for the Breaking News US email to get newsletter alerts in your inboxRapid recr...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
‘Popesplaining’ Vance out of depth in argument over whether Iran is a just war
Trump administration has riled head of Catholic church over use of theology to justify conflict in IranThe contrast in experience between the two men disagreeing over war and theology was striking.On ...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
ICE acting director will resign at the end of May, DHS officials say
Todd Lyons, who was named acting director in March 2025, led the agency at the center of President Donald Trump's plans to reshape immigration to the U.S.
PBS NewsHour - The Latest
Apr 17, 2026 - pbs.org
Two Congressmen Resigned After Accusations of Misconduct Against Women. Another Remains.
At the start of this week, there were three men in Congress whose reputations had imploded after being accused of misconduct against women: Reps. Cory Mills (R-Fla.), Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), and Eric...
Mother Jones
Apr 17, 2026 - motherjones.com
The GOP Just Passed a Resolution to Open Minnesota Wilderness Up for Mining
The Forest Service has warned that mines like the one under consideration could cause “serious and irreplaceable harm.”
Truthout
Apr 17, 2026 - truthout.org
Rumeysa Ozturk, Tufts Student Held in Immigration Detention, Returns to Turkey
Rumeysa Ozturk, who was detained for weeks by the Trump administration after co-writing a pro-Palestinian opinion essay, has graduated and returned home.
NYT > Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - nytimes.com
‘Maman is finally free!’: French widow, 86, flies home after ICE detention ordeal
Marie-Thérèse Ross-Mahé, who moved to the US to marry a GI she met in the 1950s, was arrested in her nightgown at their homeAn 86-year-old French widow arrested and detained by US immigration agents h...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Sanctions don’t result in regime change. Whether against Iran or Russia, western countries need shrewder tactics | Simon Jenkins
Dissent cannot take hold in soil rendered barren by emigration and embargo. Political opposition needs academic and cultural exchange if it is to prosperThe chancellor of the exchequer and the IMF agr...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Human rights groups raise alarm over fate of Salvadorans deported from U.S.
Migrants deported from the U.S. routinely disappear into El Salvador's prisons the moment they land or in the weeks that follow. Many remain incommunicado from family and lawyers for years.
NPR Topics: Home Page Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - npr.org
WATCH LIVE: Trump speaks at Turning Point Action event in Arizona
The president's rare trip out West comes as Trump faces growing political pressure to wrap up the war and focus on a message that helps his party as they try to defend their congressional majorities i...
PBS NewsHour - The Latest
Apr 17, 2026 - pbs.org
85-year-old widow detained by ICE returns home, France's foreign minister says
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Marie-Thérèse Ross in Alabama on April 1 for overstaying her visa.
PBS NewsHour - The Latest
Apr 17, 2026 - pbs.org
Senate extends controversial surveillance program used by U.S. spy agencies
The Senate approved a short-term renewal until April 30. The measure cleared the Senate by voice vote, without a formal roll call, as Congress raced to meet a Monday deadline. It now heads to Presiden...
PBS NewsHour - The Latest
Apr 17, 2026 - pbs.org
About 15 Latin American people deported to Congo by the U.S.
It was the latest example of the Trump administration using agreements with African countries to accelerate migrant removals under controversial circumstances that have raised questions about respect ...
PBS NewsHour - The Latest
Apr 17, 2026 - pbs.org
Texas Medical Board Sanctions Three Doctors for Delayed Care That Led to the Deaths of Two Pregnant Women
The post Texas Medical Board Sanctions Three Doctors for Delayed Care That Led to the Deaths of Two Pregnant Women appeared first on ProPublica.
ProPublica
Apr 17, 2026 - propublica.org
Minneapolis Woman Violently Dragged From Car by ICE Files Claim Against DHS
Aliya Rahman hopes to highlight tools that could “make mass acts of racial violence seem too expensive for these folks.”
Truthout
Apr 17, 2026 - truthout.org
House Judiciary Investigating Jared Kushner’s Investments From Saudi Arabia
Kushner serves as “Special Envoy for Peace” while soliciting investments from Gulf monarchies for his private business.
Truthout
Apr 17, 2026 - truthout.org
Trump Is Urged to Act on Iranian Site Feared Impervious to Airstrikes
Little is known about Pickaxe Mountain, but some experts say it illustrates the impossibility of relying on force alone to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear bomb.
NYT > Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - nytimes.com
Lutnick Says Canada Trade Deal Needs to Be Reworked Ahead of Talks
Howard Lutnick, President Trump’s commerce secretary, derided Canada’s trade strategy and said a North American deal needed to be reworked.
NYT > Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - nytimes.com
Is the pope Catholic? JD Vance thinks he has an answer | Marina Hyde
When it comes to theology, Donald Trump’s vice-president clearly knows best. Are we about to see an American break with Rome?The battle to be the absolute worst Trump henchman can feel so closely foug...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Iran says strait of Hormuz ‘completely open’ to commercial vessels as oil prices fall
Trump claims Tehran will also suspend nuclear programme as Lebanon truce enters first full dayIran’s foreign minister has said that the strait of Hormuz is now fully open to commercial vessels, reinfo...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Children ‘low-hanging fruit’ in fight to end trans care, official at pro-Trump thinktank says
America First Policy Institute, which boasts close ties to president, discussed transgender policy ‘reform’ at DC eventChildren are the “low-hanging fruit” in a longer effort to end gender-affirming c...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
US Senate repeals Biden-era ban on mining near Minnesota wilderness area
Measure passed 50-49 to overturn a 20-year ban on mining near renowned Boundary Waters Canoe Area WildernessThe US Senate narrowly voted on Thursday to overturn a ban on mining near Minnesota’s Bounda...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Trump’s pardons are costing shooting survivors millions
A Trace analysis found that revenue from fining white-collar criminals is drying up – due to presidential pardonsThis story was originally published by the Trace, a non-profit newsroom covering gun vi...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Progressive Democrat Analilia Mejia wins New Jersey special election for US House
Victory means Democrats hold on to the 11th district seat in the House, where Republicans hold a thin majorityDemocrat Analilia Mejia won a New Jersey special election for the US House on Thursday, de...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
How Pakistan’s army chief became an unlikely peacemaker in the Iran war
Trump’s ‘favourite field marshal’ has been a key figure in mediation efforts and now much rides for Asim Munir on the success of talks Middle East crisis – live updatesStepping off a plane on Wednesda...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Conservative US town grapples with potential ICE detention centre
Residents from both political parties in Social Circle, Georgia, are rejecting a proposed plan by the Department of Homeland Security to transform an empty warehouse into a detention centre.
BBC News
Apr 17, 2026 - bbc.com
OMB Head Russ Vought Refuses to Provide Financial Estimates on Iran War Costs
One policy expert estimates that costs will likely exceed $1 trillion by the end of the war.
Truthout
Apr 17, 2026 - truthout.org
The 27-Year-Old Diplomat Waging Trump’s Cultural War With Europe
Five years out of college, Samuel Samson has driven the Trump administration’s push to upend America’s postwar relationship with Europe.
NYT > Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - nytimes.com
Hundreds of Fake Pro-Trump Avatars Emerge on Social Media
The artificial-intelligence-generated fake influencers have surged on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube in an apparent bid to hook conservative voters.
NYT > Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - nytimes.com
Coral reefs are nearing extinction. 2026 must mark a turning point | Jason Momoa
At 1.5C of global warming, up to 90% of coral reefs could be lost. The next few months could be a defining momentWhere I come from – Hawai’i – the reef isn’t just something you look at. It’s part of u...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
‘Packaging evil into something funny’: is making fun of Trump now just ‘clownwashing’?
As the president’s second term has wrought new horrors, comedians reflect on whether humor can still ‘deflate the strongman’s image’During Donald Trump’s first term, as his lies distorted reality and ...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
After the latest Mandelson revelations, Starmer needs to get a good lawyer. Wasn’t he supposed to be one? | Jonathan Freedland
If only the PM had been the process-obsessed technocrat he was once painted as, this disaster wouldn’t have happened – and he wouldn’t be on the brink Keir Starmer is dull and managerial, they said. H...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Colombia convenes climate ‘coalition of the willing’ to break global fossil fuel deadlock
Santa Marta conference born out of frustration at Cop summits, where renewable progress has been stalled by major pollutersEverybody knows fossil fuels cause climate breakdown, but until recently, men...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
Olivia Rodrigo: Drop Dead review – a maximalist rush of infatuation that’s just a bauble short of festive
(Geffen)On this giddy first taste of the US pop star’s third album, she sets aside her rock bona fides to revel in the opulent flush of a crush-come-true. But why does it seem so doomed?Is there anyth...
The Guardian
Apr 17, 2026 - theguardian.com
The U.S. blockade continues despite Iran's announcement the Strait of Hormuz is open
Iran's foreign minister declared the Strait of Hormuz is open, following the start of an Israel-Lebanon ceasefire. President Trump swiftly responded that the U.S. naval blockade on Iran will continue....
NPR Topics: Home Page Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - npr.org
Who says they have no fear of the Trump administration? The quiz knows
Also: If you know what Eric Swalwell looks like, you'll get at least one question correct.
NPR Topics: Home Page Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - npr.org
Families left reeling after hospitals in blue states drop transgender care for youth
Massachusetts passed laws and joined lawsuits to protect access to gender-affirming care for minors. But faced with the Trump administration's threats, some hospitals voluntarily stopped care.
NPR Topics: Home Page Top Stories
Apr 17, 2026 - npr.org
No evidence Epsom rape took place as reported, say police
The reported attack had caused concern and prompted protests calling for more details from police.
BBC News
Apr 17, 2026 - bbc.com
Trump says Iran and U.S. are working to remove sea mines from Strait of Hormuz
Removing any mines will be critical to regain the confidence of commercial vessels that use the vital waterway to deliver oil and other products.
PBS NewsHour - The Latest
Apr 17, 2026 - pbs.org
Californians are pouring money into Democrats' Senate races in other states
California donors helped Democrats in key Senate races outraise their Republican opponents, according to latest campaign filings.
World & Nation
Apr 17, 2026 - latimes.com
Democracy Now! 2026-04-17 Friday
Headlines for April 17, 2026; As Iran Reopens Strait of Hormuz, Are U.S. & Iran Near Deal or Renewed Fighting?; Report from Beirut: Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Met with “Cautious Optimism”; Rami Khouri: ...
Democracy Now! Audio
Apr 17, 2026 - democracynow.org
RFK Jr. Refuses to Acknowledge He Called for “Re-Parenting” Black Kids in 2024
Democratic Rep. Terri Sewell responded to Kennedy's denial by saying, “I am absolutely not making this up.”
Truthout
Apr 17, 2026 - truthout.org
Trump Says He’s Still Blockading Iran After It Says It’s Opening Strait
Trump said that the US’s naval blockade will remain in effect until “OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.”
Truthout
Apr 17, 2026 - truthout.org
Palestinian Prisoners Live on Hope. Israel’s Death Penalty Aims to Destroy It.
On Palestinian Prisoners’ Day, new death penalty law exacerbates a painful reality for those with imprisoned loved ones.
Truthout
Apr 17, 2026 - truthout.org
Singer D4vd arrested in connection with death of teen girl
The arrest comes months after police in Los Angeles said a body was found in the trunk of the musician’s car. Lawyers for David Burke, who performs as D4vd, said they will defend his innocence.
National
Apr 17, 2026 - washingtonpost.com
ICE agent charged with assault for allegedly pointing gun during Minneapolis incident
The occupants of the other vehicle assumed the agent was just a “crazy person driving down the road aiming guns at people,” they told investigators.
National
Apr 17, 2026 - washingtonpost.com
Now it’s Republicans blaming American companies for inflation
Trump Cabinet members RFK Jr. and Brooke Rollins joined GOP lawmakers Thursday in pillorying onetime allies.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 16, 2026 - politico.com
‘More compromises’: Trump wants an end to Iran war
While the president claims he's got the cards, he may have to give ground to get a deal.
Politics, Policy, Political News Top Stories
Apr 16, 2026 - politico.com
US Carries Out Fifth Boat Strike in Under a Week, Bringing Death Toll to 177
Trump's "supposed armed conflict with ‘narco-terrorists’ appears to be entirely make-believe,” said one expert.
Truthout
Apr 16, 2026 - truthout.org
Trump’s ceasefire announcement, briefly explained
First responders inspect the site of an Israeli airstrike in the Lebanese town of Jiyeh, south of Beirut, on April 15, 2026. | Mahmoud Zayyat/AFP via Getty Images This story appeared in The Logoff, ...
Vox
Apr 16, 2026 - vox.com
Dave Chappelle Is Outraged That Trans People Were Right About His Jokes
Dave Chappelle is happy to make tens of millions of dollars on anti-trans comedy routines—”I’m team TERF,” he said in a 2021 special—but now apparently draws the line at Republicans turning those joke...
Mother Jones
Apr 16, 2026 - motherjones.com
Israel Will Keep Occupying Lebanon Despite Ceasefire
Reduced violence is welcome, but the Gaza “ceasefire” has meant continued genocide. We can't let them get away with it in Lebanon. The post Israel Will Keep Occupying Lebanon Despite Ceasefire appeare...
The Intercept
Apr 16, 2026 - theintercept.com
Palantir Paid No Federal Income Tax in 2025 as It Partnered With ICE, Pentagon
Its $0 tax bill comes despite the company raking in $1.6 billion and landing a $10 billion military contract last year.
Truthout
Apr 16, 2026 - truthout.org
He Anonymously Threatened Lawmakers Reining in Shady Hospital Deals. Now He’s Been Arrested.
Last week, authorities in Louisiana issued an arrest warrant for a businessman who they believe has run a vitriolic social media account that for years has harassed and threatened critics of America’s...
Mother Jones
Apr 16, 2026 - motherjones.com
Iran War Powers Vote Fails House by 1 Vote, With 1 Democrat Opposed
The Democrat, Jared Golden, announced last year that he’s not running for reelection after a challenge from the left.
Truthout
Apr 16, 2026 - truthout.org
Trump Admin Cuts $11 Million in Grant Funds to Catholic Org Amid Feud With Pope
The funds were for an organization that provides shelter and other resources to unaccompanied migrant children.
Truthout
Apr 16, 2026 - truthout.org
Defense Secretary Uses Bible Story to Bash “Trump-Hating” Press
Earlier this week, Hegseth took part in a religious event where he read a fake Bible passage from “Pulp Fiction.”
Truthout
Apr 16, 2026 - truthout.org
Trump Admin Is Reportedly Laying Groundwork for a Military Operation in Cuba
“We may stop by Cuba after we’re finished with this,” Trump told reporters in reference to the U.S. war with Iran.
Truthout
Apr 16, 2026 - truthout.org
Todd Blanche Says Americans “Should Be Happy” With Trump’s Weaponization of DOJ
Directing the DOJ is "what being the commander in chief is about,” said interim Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Truthout
Apr 16, 2026 - truthout.org
Ex-wife of firebombing suspect denied care for chest pain in ICE custody, lawyer says
Doctors delayed care for Hayam El Gamal, who is in federal detention, her lawyer said. A scan later showed a mass and fluid on her heart, court records state.
National
Apr 16, 2026 - washingtonpost.com
Department of Justice investigating Eric Swalwell amid sexual assault allegations
Democratic representative from California has suspended gubernatorial campaign and resigned from CongressThe US Department of Justice (DoJ) has opened an investigation into Eric Swalwell following his...
The Guardian
Apr 16, 2026 - theguardian.com
Man charged over 2002 Jam Master Jay killing to plead guilty, documents show
Jay Bryant negotiating plea deal in New York death of Run-DMC star, over which one conviction has been overturnedOne of the three men charged in the killing of Jam Master Jay plans to plead guilty, co...
The Guardian
Apr 16, 2026 - theguardian.com
Hegseth recites 'Pulp Fiction' speech at Pentagon prayer service
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recited dialogue drawn from the film "Pulp Fiction" at a Pentagon prayer service, using it to frame the war in Iran as an act of divine justice.
World & Nation
Apr 16, 2026 - latimes.com
RFK Jr.’s New Normal
As Trump nominates a new, uncontroversial CDC director, a more restrained version of the health secretary is appearing.
The Atlantic
Apr 16, 2026 - theatlantic.com
Europe Has “Maybe 6 Weeks” of Jet Fuel Left, Top Energy Official Says
The head of the International Energy Agency said that war will soon force widespread flight cancellations.
Truthout
Apr 16, 2026 - truthout.org
Who Is the U.S. Negotiating with in Iran?
As Trump searches for a friendly successor to the Ayatollah in Tehran, the leadership vacuum in the Iranian regime has been filled by hard-line members of the Revolutionary Guard.