FROM PAUL SPECTOR THIS WEEK: A BIDEN ADMINISTRATION HIGHLIGHT
Astonishing news from The Department of Energy. We’re on track to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions below 2005 levels by 2030, to double our clean electricity sources up to 80%, and reach carbon net zero before 2050. Read BP’s statement on reaching carbon net zero, through climate advocacy in partnership with the government. BP Wait! There’s more! Energy.gov, Read full report here.
FROM PAUL SPECTOR THIS WEEK: ELECTION NEWS HIGHLIGHT
Democrat replaces MAGA official in Iowa, a county Trump won by 17%. In a special election, Democrat Kimberly Sheets was put in place as a county election auditor, replacing a Q-Anon, election-denying opponent, who is now disowning his position. KCCI Des Moines.
PROTECTING DEMOCRACY
From Truman to Reagan to Obama, 13 presidential centers and foundations call to protect democracy. A rare statement, representing nearly a century of presidents and diverse beliefs, stresses the importance of democracy and the rule of law. TheHill
Federal court strikes down Alabama’s congressional map again. Republicans failed to comply with a court order to create a second majority-Black district. In rebuke, judges ordered that the new map be independently drawn, taking responsibility away from the Republican-controlled legislature. NYTimes
DeSantis’ redistricting map is unconstitutional and must be redrawn. A Florida plan pushed by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis violates the state constitution and is prohibited from being used for any future U.S. congressional elections. A state judge ruled that it diminished the ability of Black voters in north Florida to pick a representative of their choice. NPR
New lawsuit aims to keep Trump off the ballot in Colorado. Six Colorado voters have filed a lawsuit in federal court to block Donald Trump from appearing on the state’s ballot as a presidential candidate next year. The suit, which mirrors challenges in other states, cites the 14th Amendment, which bars anyone who has engaged in an insurrection or rebellion against the U.S. from holding public office. CPR, NYTimes
EQUAL JUSTICE UNDER THE LAW
Proud Boys get hard time for spearheading Jan. 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol. Enrique Tarrio, Dominic Pezzola, and Ethan Nordean were sentenced to 22, 18, and 10 years, respectively. NYTimes, New York Daily News
The finger-pointing among Donald Trump’s inner circle has begun. And as his four criminal cases march toward trials, some of his aides, allies and co-defendants are pointing at the former president. Politico