Letters from an American September 25, 2025
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Sep 26, 2025 Discover a whirlwind of political tension as a leaked OMB memo reveals threats of mass firings against federal employees. Witness fierce pushback from Democratic leaders like Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer. Trump’s new tariffs raise eyebrows, citing national security. Privacy takes center stage with the National Archives' unredacted military records release. Tension escalates as the DOJ indicts James Comey and demands voter data from several states, while Pentagon leaders face an unusual recall. The involvement of activists adds another layer of intrigue to the unfolding drama.
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Administration Pushes To Consolidate Control
- The administration is pushing to consolidate control by threatening mass firings and forcing funding votes before September 30.
- Heather Cox Richardson frames this as part of a broader effort to seize complete control of government functions.
Sudden Large Tariffs Announced
- Trump announced steep new tariffs starting October 1, including 100% on pharmaceuticals and 25% on heavy trucks.
- Richardson notes he claims national security reasons despite recent court limits on his unilateral tariff power.
Unredacted Military Records Released
- The National Archives mistakenly released Representative Mikie Sherrill's full military records to a political ally of her opponent.
- Richardson highlights that the release may violate the 1974 Privacy Act and was used to politically weaponize a veteran's records.