Happy Wednesday and welcome back to Common Sense with Ally Sammarco. Let’s break down the latest news.
U.S. Raises Iran in Talks with China as Ceasefire Efforts Continue….The U.S. is expected to raise Iran during upcoming talks with China, with a focus on encouraging Beijing to use its influence to support a ceasefire and help stabilize the Strait of Hormuz. Experts say China has some leverage over Iran but is likely to remain cautious and limit its involvement to calls for de-escalation rather than actively brokering a broader agreement. While Trump has publicly downplayed the need for Chinese assistance, officials indicate the U.S. may still seek cooperation on ensuring Iran adheres to any potential deal. Analysts also note that recent military activity has strained U.S. resources, a factor shaping both the negotiations with Iran and the broader dynamic with China.
Common Sense Takeaway: Trump is now leaning on China to do his dirty work—but China obviously doesn’t care to help us. This is why our relationship with our allies matters. And why starting a foreign war nobody asked for is simply, poor strategy.
Senate Rejects Effort to Limit Trump’s Military Authority on Iran….The Senate narrowly rejected a Democratic-led effort to limit President Donald Trump’s ability to use military force against Iran, with the measure failing 49–50. Three Republicans—Rand Paul, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski—joined most Democrats in support, while John Fetterman was the only Democrat to oppose it. The resolution, led by Jeff Merkley, aimed to require congressional authorization for continued U.S. military involvement in Iran under the War Powers Resolution. Debate largely centered on whether the 60-day limit applies, with the administration arguing hostilities ended after the April ceasefire, while Democrats contend the conflict could resume and still falls under congressional oversight.
Common Sense Takeaway: John Fetterman is doing the Senate GOP’s bidding on this one and we all know why. But this is not a question of whether we should be in this war or not, this is about reigning the power to use military force that’s being abused by the Trump Administration. This should have been 100-0, yet we still have complicit Republicans and a Democrat who is determined to lose his seat in 2028.
DOJ Considers Settlement in Trump’s $10B IRS Lawsuit…The Department of Justice is considering a potential settlement in a $10 billion lawsuit filed by Donald Trump against the IRS and Treasury Department over the leak of his tax records. According to reports, discussions include possible financial compensation and other options, such as ending audits into Trump and his businesses. The lawsuit stems from the unauthorized disclosure of tax data by a former contractor, who was later sentenced to prison. Any settlement would come as a court deadline approaches requiring both sides to clarify potential conflicts in the case.
Common Sense Takeaway: Let’s be clear: Donald wants $10 billion in TAXPAYER dollars for something that had no real material effect on his reputation. If you’re still claiming he cares about lowering the national debt or prices, I have a bridge to sell you. Just yesterday he even said “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situations.” The only pocketbook he cares about is his, and the idea that he gets any money from this settlement is an insult to us all.
Races To Watch 👀
Today’s Race: VA-01. Virginia’s 1st Congressional District is currently represented by Republican Rob Wittman, who has held the seat since 2007.
Ally’s choice: Democrat Elizabeth Dempsey Beggs. A veteran, firefighter’s wife, mom of four, and foster parent, she says her life has always been about service and choosing the harder right over the easier path. She joined the Army at 17 and became one of the first women Tank Commanders, later continuing her service through foster care and advocacy for kids and families. Now at 29, she’s running for Congress, saying the decision comes down to the same belief she’s carried her whole life: when something matters, you show up and do the work, even when it’s hard.
Here’s her campaign website: www.elizabethforvirginia.com
That’s it for today. Thanks for reading Common Sense with Ally Sammarco. Check back tomorrow for more.
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