Letters from an American November 1, 2025
29 snips
Nov 2, 2025 The host dives into the stark contrast between Trump's lavish celebrations and the struggles of those affected by a government shutdown. A Great Gatsby-themed party serves as a poignant symbol of wealth disparity. Legal issues arise as the administration overlooks necessary congressional notifications for military actions linked to Venezuela. Strikes have resulted in casualties, raising serious questions about the legality of using drones in combat. Lawmakers push back against what they see as a violation of Congress's war powers.
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Lavish Celebrations Amid Benefit Cuts
- Heather Cox Richardson describes Trump celebrating a new marble bathroom and throwing a Great Gatsby–themed party at Mar-a-Lago while SNAP benefits were ending.
- She compares that behavior to Fitzgerald's critique of wealthy carelessness that harms others.
Court Ruling vs. Political Deflection
- Two federal judges found the administration likely illegal in refusing to use emergency SNAP reserves but the government delayed implementing the order.
- Trump publicly blamed Democrats and urged SNAP users to call Senate Democrats to reopen the government.
War Powers Tension With Venezuela Strikes
- The administration claims it need not consult Congress for strikes on Venezuela-linked vessels, contradicting the War Powers Resolution.
- The War Powers Resolution requires notification within 48 hours and congressional approval for hostilities beyond 60 days.
