EA Weekend Roundup – 2.15.25
We watched the news so you don't have to! This Week in Politics: Attacks on Press Freedom, Election Security Rollbacks, and Government Purges
Welcome to this week’s EA Weekend Roundup. You’ll find a more condensed version weekly on Threads and Instagram, but here, you’ll get a deeper dive of the week’s biggest headlines and what you can do about them.
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Here’s what you need to know this week.
This Week in U.S. Politics (Feb. 9 - Feb. 15, 2025)
From press suppression and election security rollbacks to legal pushback against Trump’s extreme policies, here are the ten biggest stories you need to know this week.
White House Bans AP Reporters Over ‘Gulf of America’ Controversy
The White House banned Associated Press reporters from press briefings and Air Force One after they refused to adopt the administration’s preferred term, “Gulf of America,” instead of “Gulf of Mexico.” This move is just the latest in a broader crackdown on the free press, with Trump’s team limiting access to reporters who refuse to push administration-approved narratives. AP joins a growing list of news outlets—including NPR and The Washington Post—that have faced restrictions, raising alarm among press freedom watchdogs.
Why it matters: Press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy. The press plays a critical role in holding those in power accountable, and efforts to punish or exclude journalists who don’t toe the administration’s line are a dangerous sign of creeping authoritarianism. Without an independent press, the public is left with government-controlled narratives, limiting access to the truth and suppressing dissent.
Democratic Lawmakers Denied Entry to the Department of Education
Reps. Mark Takano and Maxine Waters were blocked from entering the Department of Education while trying to investigate Elon Musk’s growing influence over federal education policy. Despite their status as elected officials conducting oversight, security claimed they needed an escort and refused them entry. This follows reports that Musk has been directly advising the DOE on policy, sparking concerns about privatization and ideological shifts in public education.
Why it matters: Blocking congressional oversight of federal agencies undermines transparency and raises concerns about corruption. The growing influence of unelected billionaires in shaping policy—without public accountability—sets a dangerous precedent. Education policy should be determined by experts and elected officials, not dictated by tech billionaires with personal agendas.
Mass Firings of Federal Workers Under ‘DOGE’ Plan
The Trump administration and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have begun firing 9,500+ career federal employees, gutting regulatory agencies, environmental protections, and veterans’ services. While framed as an efficiency measure, many of those being dismissed are career public servants with decades of experience in oversight roles. A federal judge has temporarily blocked DOGE from accessing Treasury Department data, citing concerns over financial security and privacy.
Why it matters: This isn’t just about streamlining government—it’s a calculated purge of experts and career officials in favor of Trump loyalists. These firings weaken essential regulatory bodies and dismantle federal agencies that oversee everything from environmental protection to public health. This sets the stage for widespread corruption, deregulation, and unchecked executive power.
DOJ Drops Bribery Case Against NYC Mayor Eric Adams, Leading to Resignations
The Justice Department abruptly dropped a corruption case against NYC Mayor Eric Adams, leading to multiple DOJ officials resigning in protest. Acting U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon publicly stated that the move was driven by “unprecedented political pressure” rather than a lack of evidence. This marks yet another instance of Trump’s DOJ interfering in investigations that could damage political allies while aggressively prosecuting perceived enemies.
Why it matters: The DOJ is supposed to function independently of political influence. If high-profile corruption cases can be dismissed at the whim of the White House, the justice system itself becomes compromised. Selective prosecution—or lack of prosecution—creates a legal system where those in power operate with impunity while dissidents and marginalized groups face harsher scrutiny. This erosion of accountability makes it harder for the public to trust that justice is being served fairly.
CISA Suspends All Election Security Work
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has paused all election security efforts, following Trump’s repeated false claims about widespread voter fraud. CISA had been responsible for securing election infrastructure and countering foreign interference—both of which were critical in the 2020 election. Reports indicate that multiple state election officials have been left without federal support for cybersecurity and voter protection measures.
Why it matters: Without a strong election security apparatus, bad actors—foreign and domestic—have free rein to disrupt elections. From disinformation campaigns to digital vote tampering, removing these protections leaves U.S. democracy more vulnerable than ever. Free and fair elections require robust security measures, and this decision signals that ensuring election integrity is no longer a priority for the administration.
Trump Holds Private Call with Putin on Ending Ukraine War
Trump held a private call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing it as “highly productive.” Reports suggest that Trump is considering blocking Ukraine’s NATO membership as part of a peace deal, which would be a major win for Russia and a significant blow to Ukraine’s sovereignty. European allies have responded with concern, warning that the U.S. may be retreating from its commitments to NATO and democratic nations under threat.
Why it matters: A U.S. foreign policy that prioritizes appeasing authoritarian regimes over supporting democratic allies is a dangerous shift. If the U.S. abandons Ukraine, it sends a message that aggressive invasions and territorial takeovers are acceptable. Weakening NATO solidarity also emboldens other global authoritarian leaders who may seek to exploit this shift in power.
Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Ban on Transgender Healthcare
A federal judge has ruled that the administration’s attempt to ban gender-affirming care and Medicaid coverage for trans individuals violates constitutional rights. This decision temporarily halts the policy, preventing thousands from losing access to critical healthcare services. However, the ruling is expected to be appealed, making this just one chapter in a much larger legal fight over trans rights.
Why it matters: This decision is a necessary intervention in an ongoing attack on LGBTQ+ rights. While it provides immediate relief, the broader strategy of restricting healthcare access remains a key agenda item for the administration and its allies. The courts remain one of the last safeguards against these discriminatory policies, but their ability to hold the line will depend on sustained public pressure and legal challenges.
Trump Signs Executive Order Cutting Federal Funding for COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates
Trump signed an executive order prohibiting federally funded institutions, including universities, hospitals, and public schools, from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for students and employees. The order goes even further than previous efforts by barring agencies from using federal funds to implement or promote any vaccine requirements, including those for childhood immunization programs.
Why it matters: Public health experts are calling this a reckless move that prioritizes political messaging over science. Vaccination mandates have long been used to protect vulnerable populations, and this order weakens those safeguards. Schools and hospitals that rely on federal funding may now be forced to choose between keeping their vaccine mandates and staying financially afloat. This decision also sets a precedent for rolling back public health protections beyond COVID-19, undermining efforts to prevent future pandemics and infectious disease outbreaks.
Pentagon Deploys 1,500 More Troops to the U.S.-Mexico Border
The Pentagon announced it will send an additional 1,500 active-duty troops to the southern border, bringing the total number of military personnel stationed there to over 3,600. This deployment follows the administration’s aggressive anti-immigration policies, including increased deportations, asylum restrictions, and expanded use of border surveillance technology.
Why it matters: The continued militarization of the U.S.-Mexico border is a dangerous escalation that criminalizes migration and erodes humanitarian protections. Deploying active-duty troops—who are trained for combat, not immigration enforcement—raises concerns about human rights abuses, particularly against asylum seekers. Instead of addressing root causes like poverty, violence, and climate displacement, this administration is relying on militarization to deter migration, a strategy that has repeatedly failed. Additionally, using military resources in this way diverts attention from actual national security priorities, stretching Pentagon resources thin.
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show Sparks Political Conversations
Read our deep dive into Lamar’s performance:
Kendrick Lamar made history as the first solo hip-hop artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show, delivering a performance that honored Black resilience and cultural power. His set included a powerful rendition of “Not Like Us,” a song that has become an anthem against systemic oppression. While conservative commentators tried to frame the performance as controversial, it was widely celebrated as a defining moment of Black artistry on one of the world’s biggest stages.
Why it matters: Representation in mainstream media matters. Lamar’s performance wasn’t just about entertainment—it was a cultural statement. Hip-hop has long been a vehicle for activism and social commentary, and this moment brought that legacy to an audience of millions. At a time when Black history and culture are under attack in schools and legislation, seeing a Black artist unapologetically claim space on such a massive platform is both significant and necessary. These cultural moments help shift narratives, inspire activism, and remind us that music remains a powerful tool for resistance.
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Take Action: 5 Ways to Get Involved
1. Contact Your Representatives
Demand congressional oversight on election security, press freedom, and the USAID cuts. Call or email your representatives and let them know you expect action.
📞 Call the Capitol Switchboard: (202) 224-3121 (ask to be connected to your senator or representative)
🖥️ Find your reps: house.gov/representatives, senate.gov
📌 Sample script:
“Hello, my name is [Your Name] and I’m a constituent from [Your City/State]. I’m calling to demand that [Senator/Representative Name] take immediate action to address the administration’s attacks on election security and press freedom. These actions are undermining our democracy, and I expect my representatives to push back. Will [Senator/Representative] commit to investigating these abuses of power?”
2. Support Press Freedom
Independent journalism is under attack. Support outlets doing investigative reporting by subscribing, donating, or sharing their work. Some good options:
ProPublica – Investigative journalism on corruption and government overreach
The Guardian – Unbiased, globally focused reporting
Democracy Now! – In-depth, independent news coverage
3. Donate to Legal Defense Funds
Support organizations fighting Trump’s policies in court:
ACLU – Civil liberties and voting rights litigation
NAACP Legal Defense Fund – Fighting racial injustice in policy
Protect Democracy – Challenging authoritarian overreach
4. Mobilize Locally
Join local protests, town halls, and direct action events in response to attacks on trans rights, press freedom, and voter suppression. Check for events through:
5. Stay Informed & Educate Others
Knowledge is power. Follow organizations tracking threats to democracy and share credible information in your communities:
Brennan Center for Justice – Expert analysis on voting rights and democracy
Democracy Docket – Breaking legal news on voter suppression
Center for Constitutional Rights – Legal advocacy for human rights
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Feeling Hopeless? Here’s How to Fight Back Beyond Calling Congress
The constitutional crisis is deepening, and Musk is dismantling the government in real time. It’s overwhelming—but there are still ways to fight back. Here’s what you can do beyond calling Congress:
1. Expose & Disrupt Disinformation
Educate yourself and others—disinformation thrives on confusion. Share accurate information.
Push back on propaganda—when people repeat lies (like “DOGE is real”), correct them calmly with facts.
Support independent journalism—subscribe, share, and fund outlets doing real investigative work.
2. Strengthen Local & State Resistance
Support governors, attorneys general, and mayors who fight back against federal overreach.
Push for state-level protections—voting rights, abortion access, and LGBTQ+ protections are being decided at the state level.
Join local activist groups—community-led resistance has successfully blocked harmful policies before.
3. Protect Democratic Infrastructure
Volunteer for elections—help register voters, work the polls, and push back against voter suppression.
Support legal defense groups—the ACLU, Protect Democracy, and CREW are fighting Musk & Trump’s power grabs in court.
Engage with watchdog groups—Democracy Docket & ProPublica are exposing corruption—amplify their work.
4. Use Economic Pressure
Musk’s power relies on his businesses—divest from Tesla, X, and Starlink where possible.
Support labor actions—federal worker unions are already resisting mass layoffs—show solidarity.
Boycott & disrupt anti-democratic funders—many companies fund Project 2025, voter suppression, and deregulation.
5. Build Community Resilience
Authoritarianism thrives on isolation—connect locally and build networks of support.
Mutual aid matters—if federal services get slashed, local grassroots orgs will be key to survival.
Train in digital security—Musk controls major platforms—help activists & journalists stay secure online.
6. Don’t Go Numb—They Want You to Feel Hopeless
Every crisis is a test of what we will tolerate—the more people push back, the harder it is to consolidate power.
Resistance is cumulative—civil rights movements, labor strikes, and past authoritarian collapses prove that no system is unstoppable.
Authoritarians count on exhaustion—rest when needed, but don’t disengage. Small actions matter, and collective action works.
7. Hope Isn’t Passive—It’s Action
They want you to believe there’s nothing you can do. That’s how they win.
History proves resistance works—every resignation, lawsuit, protest, and act of defiance matters.
What we do now shapes what comes next.
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