Community Archives - The Truth Seekers Journal

DeKalb County Pioneers Long-Term Housing Solution with $8M Investment

DeKalb County invests $8 million in Park 500 to provide housing and services for 60 families transitioning from extended-stay motels to permanent stability.

By Milton Kirby | DeKalb County, GA | July 29, 2025

60 Families to Transition from Motels to Fully Furnished Apartments with Wraparound Services

DeKalb County has taken a bold new step in tackling housing insecurity. On July 22, the Board of Commissioners unanimously approved an $8 million investment in Park 500, a transitional housing development in Stone Mountain that will provide 60 fully furnished, move-in-ready units for families facing homelessness.

The initiative marks the county’s first direct ownership of a housing property and signals a shift from temporary assistance to permanent, transformative support.

“Let me be clear, this is not temporary assistance. What we are creating is a long-term, transformational investment in housing,” said DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson.

Located near MARTA bus lines, Park 500’s one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments will prioritize families currently living in extended-stay motels—many of whom are working parents with children but remain locked out of traditional housing.

CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson announces $8 million investment in housing

“We are transitioning individuals from extended-stay motels into affordable housing and doing it with dignity,” said Cochran-Johnson. “Park 500 will provide job assistance, child care coordination, and case management.”

The complex will be managed in partnership with the Housing Authority of DeKalb County’s Residential Services Corporation, alongside other community-based organizations. The County’s Community Development team will oversee intake and placement services, underscoring the crucial role of the community in this initiative.

Commissioner Chakira Johnson, who represents District 4, where Park 500 is located, called the project “deeply personal.”

“Park 500 is more than housing, it’s healing,” said Johnson. “With wraparound services and community connection, we’re giving our unhoused neighbors the tools to thrive. I’m proud it starts here in District 4.”

Commissioner Ted Terry highlighted the long-term vision behind the county’s direct investment, instilling a sense of security and confidence in the initiative’s sustainability.

“This is a hand up, not just a handout,” said Terry. “Park 500 represents an ownership stake in a perpetual process to address housing insecurity in DeKalb.”

Commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton also praised the program’s broader impact. “This project is about stability, safety, and restoring hope for families who’ve been left behind. Park 500 is one of many intentional steps toward equity, offering reassurance and hope for the initiative’s impact.

In addition to housing, residents of Park 500 will benefit from job assistance, social services, and coordinated child care. The units will be available to families referred through DeKalb’s Coordinated Entry system, a transparent and fair process that ensures those in most need are given the opportunity.

CEO Cochran-Johnson emphasized the significance of county ownership in the effort. “DeKalb County must be an owner,” she said. “This isn’t just a subsidy—we now hold an ownership interest and are building a reinvestment fund. Today is about leadership, legacy, and community.”

Photo by Milton Kirby – Park 500 – DeKalb County Housing

Any revenue generated by the project will be reinvested to expand access to affordable housing and sustain the support services attached to the program.

Park 500 represents a model that county officials hope to replicate in the future. For now, it offers a lifeline to dozens of families, bringing a vision of permanent housing and community-centered care into reality.

For more information, residents can contact DeKalb Community Development’s Coordinated Entry line at 404-687-3500.

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MARTA and Page Turners Host “Reading and Riding” Family Day at Decatur Station

MARTA and Page Turners host Reading and Riding Family Day at Decatur Station with author Derrick Barnes, free books, music, comic-making, and kids’ prizes.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | July 28, 2025

In a joyful celebration of literacy, learning, and community, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has teamed up with Page Turners Make Great Learners to host “Reading and Riding Family Day” on Saturday, August 2. The free event, taking place at the east entrance plaza of Decatur Station from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., promises an engaging experience for children and families just in time for the back-to-school season.

Designed to foster imagination and encourage early childhood literacy, the family-focused gathering blends books, music, creative expression, and community engagement—all centered around the theme of “Reading and Riding.”

Derrick Barnes Headlines the Day

Award-winning children’s author Derrick Barnes headlines the event with a live reading from his latest book, I Got You – A Brother’s Promise. Known for uplifting Black youth through powerful, affirming stories, Barnes is expected to draw a crowd of eager young readers. The first 100 families in attendance will receive a free copy of the book, with the opportunity to have it personally signed by the author.

Local Vendors, Celebrity Guests, and Hands-On Fun

The local, independent bookstore Brave and Kind Book Shop will also be on site, offering additional children’s titles for purchase and encouraging families to build their home libraries.

Photo by Milton Kirby Bunnie Hilliard Brave & Kind Bookshop owner

Adding a hometown celebrity flair, Atlanta recording artist Trinidad James is slated to make a special appearance. As part of his “Reflections Sundays” initiative, he will lead a mindfulness moment to help children center themselves and prepare for a successful school year.

No summer event is complete without a cool treat—MokiPops, a local family-owned business, will provide free popsicles to kids in attendance.

Creativity in Motion

Young creatives can also dive into storytelling with Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB), which will offer a “Create Your Own Comic Book” station. This hands-on activity allows children to write and illustrate their adventures, combining literacy with artistic expression.

Adding to the excitement, MARTA staff will host a prize wheel featuring fun back-to-school giveaways, including custom Breeze cards. A live DJ will keep the energy up with music throughout the event.

Community Collaboration for Student Success

The event reflects MARTA’s broader commitment to education and family-friendly service initiatives. “We are proud to partner with Page Turners Make Great Learners to bring this exciting, literacy-focused event to our Decatur community,” said a MARTA spokesperson.

“Reading and Riding is all about creating positive experiences for young riders and encouraging them to view public transportation as a place for learning and growth.”

Page Turners Make Great Learners, an Atlanta-based nonprofit, has long focused on providing engaging reading opportunities and author interactions to boost literacy outcomes among underserved youth. Partnering with MARTA adds a new dimension—connecting education to everyday experiences like riding transit.

Event Details

What: Reading and Riding Family Day

When: Saturday, August 2, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: Decatur Station (East Entrance, Plaza adjacent to Church St.)

Address: 400 Church St., Decatur, GA 30030

Cost: Free

For more information, visit itsmarta.com.

MARTA rolls out Big Changes with New Fare System Upgrades

MARTA Unwraps the Holidays with Free Rides, Festive Buses, and Gifts for Riders

MARTA Rolls Out an Outkast Tribute Across Atlanta

MARTA Completes Garnett Station Platform Renovation

From Tokens to Tap-to-Pay: MARTA Unveils Better Breeze

MARTA to Close Five Points Peachtree Entrance as Next Phase of Transformation Begins

MARTA Interim CEO Charts Course for Safer, Faster, More Reliable Transit Ahead of World Cup

Atlanta Beltline Nears 2030 Completion with Big Progress and Bigger Goals World-Class Transit for World-Class Soccer: MARTA Steps Up

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Warnock Leads Effort to End Racial Bias in Black Home Appraisals

Senator Warnock’s bill fights appraisal bias in Black neighborhoods, aiming to protect home values, ensure fairness, and help families build generational wealth.

Senator’s new bill gives families tools to protect home value and build wealth

By Milton Kirby | Washington, D.C. | July 23, 2025

Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock is taking a strong stand against unfair home appraisals. On Tuesday, he introduced the Appraisal Modernization Act, a bill that would give families more power to fight bias that lowers their home’s value.

For many Americans, their home is their most significant source of wealth. However, the urgency of the issue is underscored by research from Brookings, which shows that homes in Black neighborhoods are worth about 21% to 23% less than similar homes in non-Black areas.

“Home valuations are a big part of building generational wealth,” said Senator Warnock. “This bill helps families protect that value and gives them new tools to fight back against bias.”

What the Bill Will Do

The Appraisal Modernization Act would make the home appraisal process fairer. It would:

Require the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to publish an online database of property-level appraisal data
Let consumers appeal an unfair appraisal or request a second one
Make sure those appeals are treated the same across the country

These changes aim to protect families, increase fairness, and shine a light on bias.

Backlash After Trump Shuts Down Bias Task Force

The need for the bill became even more urgent last week. The Trump administration announced it would end the federal task force that was working to remove racial bias from the home appraisal system.

Senator Warnock said his bill would help fill that gap by building new systems of transparency and fairness into law.

Supported by Senators and Experts Nationwide

Senator Warnock is not alone. The bill is backed by Senators:

Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD)
Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE)
Cory Booker (D-NJ)
Andy Kim (D-NJ)
Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)

Senator Booker said, “The color of your skin should not decide the value of your home.”

Housing experts agree. Nikitra Bailey from the National Fair Housing Alliance said the bill gives families and lenders better data to make fair decisions.

Laura Arce from UnidosUS said, “The race or ethnicity of a homeowner should not affect the value of their home. This bill makes the process fairer for everyone.”

Why It Matters for Georgia and the Nation

Homeownership is one of the best ways to build wealth in America. However, racial bias in the appraisal system has been a significant barrier, preventing many Black and Latino families from growing that wealth. The introduction of this bill could potentially change that.

Today, White families hold $1.3 million in average wealth. Black families have only $211,000, and Latino families hold $227,000 on average. The difference is often tied to the value of their homes.

“This bill is about fairness and opportunity,” Warnock said. “Every family deserves to know that their hard work and home investment are treated with respect.”

Part of a Bigger Plan

This bill is part of a larger housing plan Warnock introduced in March 2025. As a member of the Senate Banking Committee, he has supported:

$80 million for affordable housing in Georgia
Funding to build 10,000 new housing units
Support for the Yes In My Backyard (YIMBY) grant program
$275 million in grants to fight homelessness
Laws to repair low-income housing and make homeownership fairer

As someone who grew up in public housing in Savannah, Warnock knows the impact of having a safe, stable home.

Experts Say Data Will Help Everyone

The Housing Policy Council and the National Association of Mortgage Brokers both support the bill. They say the public database will improve how home values are measured and make the market more fair for lenders, buyers, and appraisers.

Andrew Pizor of the National Consumer Law Center said, “This law helps people protect their home equity and fix decades of unfair treatment in the appraisal system.”

What Happens Next?

The bill will now go through review in the Senate. If passed, it could reshape how homes are appraised in Georgia and across the country.

“This is about leadership and fairness,” Warnock said. “We can’t build generational wealth if bias is baked into the system. This bill is a step forward.”

Legislation Fact Sheet Appraisal Modernization Act

For updates or to support the bill, visit warnock.senate.gov or call your local housing advocacy group.

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Elon Musk Fired 6,000 USDA Workers — The U.S. Is Now Confronting a Threat from Invasive Species and Financial Fallout

By Arezki Amiri | Dalily Galaxy | July 16, 2025

In February 2025, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) became the focal point of a high-stakes controversy that has set alarm bells ringing across the nation. At the center of it all? A dramatic reduction in workforce—6,000 employees, to be exact.

While the news of mass layoffs typically doesn’t make for front-page headlines, the ripple effects of this particular decision have sent shockwaves far beyond Washington D.C. What’s more, these layoffs are starting to have very real, and potentially dangerous, consequences for U.S. agriculture, food security, and the economy. But what exactly has been cut, and why does it matter?

A Severe Cut to Expertise: What’s Been Lost?

According to Wired, the USDA wasn’t just shedding staff. These weren’t your typical office workers. The agency has let go of highly trained individuals – inspectors, entomologists, disease-sniffing dog trainers—many of whom had specialized knowledge and years of experience. These professionals were critical in safeguarding the nation’s food supply, ensuring agricultural imports were free from pests and diseases that could devastate crops.

Take the National Dog Detection Training Center, for example. This was a place where beagles and Labradors were trained to detect invasive specieslike the Giant African land snail, a mollusk that poses a serious threat to Florida’s agricultural industries. As one former employee pointed out, the loss of even one such dog—and the expertise behind its training—could make the difference between catching a pest at the border or watching it infest American farms. The impact isn’t just theoretical. It’s happening right now.

It’s All About the Port Crisis

When you consider the sheer volume of goods flowing through U.S. ports, the role of the USDA’s inspection staff becomes clear. Ports like Los Angeles and Miami handle millions of tons of goods each year, much of it agricultural. With 6,000 USDA staff cuts, including a sharp reduction in the Plant Protection and Quarantine teams, the fallout is immediate. In some cases, ports lost as much as 35% of their inspection workforce, significantly slowing the process of screening incoming imports.

What does that mean for the average American consumer? Simply put, more risk. Less inspection means more food could spoil on arrival, or worse, dangerous pests might slip through the cracks. These aren’t just theoretical threats; invasive species like the Asian longhorn beetle and spotted lanternfly could have catastrophic consequences for U.S. agriculture. The already fragile food supply chain is now at even greater risk, creating a perfect storm of supply disruptions and economic consequences.

Higher Prices, Less Food

The economic implications of these cuts are already becoming apparent. Supply chain disruptions are never good for prices, and fewer inspections mean that food could be left to rot while it waits for clearance at the ports. Experts warn that these delays will likely lead to higher grocery prices—especially in smaller towns and rural communities that are more vulnerable to supply chain disruptions.

But the problem doesn’t stop with food. Shipping containers, which are supposed to quickly move between ports, are now sitting idle. The backlog means these containers aren’t being reused quickly enough for other goods, creating further bottlenecks in the global supply chain. These ripples are already being felt in other sectors, too, as delays in one area inevitably cause ripple effects elsewhere.

A Legal and Political Tug-of-War

As the disruption continues, legal battles have begun over the fate of the fired employees. While two federal judges have ruled that some workers should be reinstated, the Trump administration has made it clear that it will fight these rulings. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt even described the decisions as “absurd and unconstitutional.”

At this point, it seems like the case is as much about political ideology as it is about the practical implications of the cuts. For now, USDA employees remain in limbo, unsure whether their reinstatement will be more than just a fleeting hope. Meanwhile, the clock is ticking—and the consequences for U.S. agriculture grow more severe by the day.

What’s Next for U.S. Agriculture?

This situation is about much more than just one government initiative. The USDA cuts raise important questions about the future of U.S. agricultural security. As invasive species become a more significant threat, and food security teeters on the edge, the impact of these layoffs will reverberate far beyond food prices.

We’re witnessing a delicate balancing act between government efficiency and public safety—and the consequences of getting it wrong could be catastrophic. Whether these cuts will ultimately be reversed or stand as a testament to a new era of government efficiency remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the stakes are incredibly high.

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‘Pay attention’: Supreme Court justice gives dire warning about ‘state of our democracy’

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson urges Americans to “pay attention” amid growing concerns over democracy, referencing controversial Supreme Court rulings and unchecked executive power.

By Carl Gibson | Washington, DC | July 11, 2025

Recently, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson was asked what keeps her up at night. While she didn’t directly name President Donald Trump, she heavily referenced his administration in her remarks.

Courtesy US Supreme Court Ketanji Brown Jackson, Associate Justice,

The Daily Beast reported Thursday that Jackson — who was appointed to the Supreme Court by former President Joe Biden in 2022 – urged her fellow Americans during a question-and-answer session at the Indianapolis Bar Association to be vigilant about what their government was doing. Jackson’s remarks came in response to a question from moderator Jane Magnus-Stinson, who is a senior U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of Indiana, about what keeps her up at night.

“I would say the state of our democracy,” Justice Jackson said. “I am really very interested in getting people to focus and to invest and to pay attention to what is happening in our country and in our government.”

Though she didn’t elaborate further, Jackson’s comments come after a particularly contentious Supreme Court term. The 6-3 conservative supermajority (which includes three Trump appointees) handed down multiple decisions drastically expanding executive power while curtailing the power of institutions tasked with checking it — including the courts themselves.

Among the most controversial decisions includes the Trump v. Casa case, in which the Court’s conservatives stripped lower courts of the ability to issue nationwide injunctions blocking illegal executive orders from going into effect. That decision was the result of litigation brought against Trump’s day one executive order ending birthright citizenship – which is guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution — for the American-born children of undocumented immigrants.

The majority opinion in Trump v. Casa, which was authored by Trump-appointed Justice Amy Coney Barrett, left the door open for groups of states to obtain relief for their particular jurisdictions, including if they unite in litigation as one class. This means that in states with Democratic attorneys general that have sued to stop Trump’s birthright citizenship order, there would be two classes of citizens (should the Democratic attorneys general ultimately prevail) depending on whether a child of undocumented immigrants is born in a state that won those protections.

Toward the end of the 2024-2025 term, Jackson tore into her colleagues for being captive to “moneyed interests.” Without naming any specific names, the liberal jurist used her dissent in the Diamond Alternative Energy v. Environmental Protection Agency decision (which sided against federal regulations over the fossil fuel industry) to slam her colleagues for “being overly sympathetic to corporate interests.”

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10 Steps to Building Lasting Wealth

By Rashonda Tate | July 5, 2025

When the conversation turns to freedom, it often stops at civil rights and voting power. However, true freedom includes financial liberation—the ability to make choices without being burdened by debt, paycheck-to-paycheck cycles, or generational disadvantage.

For Black families, the wealth gap remains a significant barrier. According to the Federal Reserve, the median wealth of Black households is $24,000, compared to $188,000 for white households.

That story does not have to be the final chapter.

Financial freedom is not about luck. It is about intention, strategy, and education. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to advance, here are 10 steps to take control of your money, reclaim your power, and build lasting wealth.

1. Know Your Numbers

You cannot change what you do not measure. Start by listing your income, monthly expenses, debts, and savings. Use tools like Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), or an Excel worksheet to get the full picture. Don’t be afraid of what you find—clarity is power.

“When I finally wrote everything down, I realized I was not broke—I was just unorganized,” said Houston entrepreneur Tiffany Jackson.

2. Create a Budget That Respects Your Life

Budgeting does not mean deprivation—it means direction. Set a monthly budget that includes necessities, savings, debt repayment, and joy. The 50/30/20 rule (50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings/debt) is a good start, but customize it for your situation.

3. Build an Emergency Fund

Life happens. A blown tire, medical bill, or job loss shouldn’t wipe you out. Aim to save three to six months of expenses, starting with a goal of $500 and building from there. Automate your savings so you don’t have to think about it.

4. Eliminate High-Interest Debt

Credit card debt is a wealth killer. Use the snowball method (pay off smallest debts first) or the avalanche method (tackle highest interest rates first). Whichever you choose, be consistent. Every dollar you pay off is a dollar you reclaim.

5. Protect Your Credit Score

Your credit score affects everything from home loans to insurance rates. Pay bills on time, keep credit utilization under 30%, and avoid opening too many new accounts. Apps like Credit Karma or Experian Boost can help you monitor your progress.

6. Learn to Invest (Yes, You Can)

Black families have historically been left out of investment opportunities. It’s time to change that. Start with a Roth IRA, 401(k), or low-cost index funds. You don’t need to be rich to invest—just consistent. Compound interest is the real benefit.

7. Buy (or Keep) Property If You Can

Homeownership is still a major wealth builder, especially when property values increase. Programs like NACA (Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America), FHA loans, and local grants can help first-time buyers.

Ownership also includes protecting inherited property and avoiding land loss.

“Too many Black families lose the home grandma worked for because the paperwork was not right,” said real estate attorney Kristie Kin. “Make sure the deed is clear and the heirs understand the value.”

8. Teach the Next Generation

Financial literacy isn’t just for adults. Talk to your children and teens about saving, budgeting, and ownership. Open custodial savings accounts, introduce them to investing early, and model the habits you want them to repeat.

9. Find a Financial Accountability Partner

You don’t have to go it alone. Whether it’s a trusted friend, family member, or financial coach, share your goals and check in monthly. Black wealth is community wealth—don’t be afraid to lean on your village.

10. Leave a Legacy, Not Just Money

Wealth is more than a dollar amount. It’s insurance. It’s estate planning. It’s a will that protects your children. Meet with a Black estate attorney or planner and ensure your assets are clearly designated. Don’t let probate courts decide your family’s future.

Financial freedom is not a destination—it’s a practice. Start where you are. Build as you go. And remember: We are not just consumers. We are creators, builders, and owners.

“Black wealth is a revolutionary act,” said financial educator Dominique Broadway.
“And it is one we can achieve—one step at a time.”

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MARTA Expands Service for July 5 FIFA World Cup Match

MARTA offers expanded service, real-time tools, and direct access to Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinal in Atlanta.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | July 4, 2025

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is gearing up to transport thousands of soccer fans to one of the summer’s most anticipated matchups: the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinal between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich. The match kicks off at noon on Saturday, July 5, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

To ensure a smooth journey for the anticipated surge in ridership, MARTA will be running additional trains before and after the match. This includes a special pre-game shuttle between Five Points and GWCC/CNN Center Stations, making your travel to the match a breeze.

“This is one of the biggest matches Atlanta has ever hosted, and we want to make sure fans arrive safely, on time, and without hassle,” a MARTA spokesperson said.

What You Need to Know:

Traveling to the Stadium

Riders are encouraged to take MARTA directly to GWCC/CNN Center or Vine City Station, both of which offer convenient access to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Due to construction at Five Points Station, entry will be limited to Peachtree and Forsyth Streets. Restrooms and customer service at Five Points are currently closed due to renovations.

Extra Services and Safety

MARTA will deploy Transit Ambassadors and Load and Go teams at key stations and platforms to assist passengers.
MARTA Police officers will be stationed throughout the system to ensure safety and crowd control.

Empower your journey with digital Tools and Travel Tips

Riders are encouraged to download the Breeze Mobile 2.0 app, which allows them to purchase fares directly from their phones, skip the lines at vending machines, and have their tickets ready for inspection, making their journey more convenient and efficient. The MARTA On the Go app and the real-time trip planner offer live service updates, route planning, and cancellation alerts, providing fans with the most up-to-date information to plan their journey and avoid any potential disruptions. Riders can also use the See & Say 2.0 app to report suspicious activity.

Public restrooms are available at 16 MARTA rail stations, including SMART restrooms at GWCC, Decatur, Doraville, East Point, H.E. Holmes, and Lindbergh, open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For real-time alerts, follow @MARTAservice on Twitter. Fans are encouraged to share their MARTA match-day experiences using the hashtag #LetMARTADrive.

To plan your trip, check parking availability, or learn more about service changes, visit www.itsmarta.com or call 404-848-5000.

MARTA rolls out Big Changes with New Fare System Upgrades

MARTA Unwraps the Holidays with Free Rides, Festive Buses, and Gifts for Riders

MARTA Rolls Out an Outkast Tribute Across Atlanta

MARTA Completes Garnett Station Platform Renovation

From Tokens to Tap-to-Pay: MARTA Unveils Better Breeze

MARTA to Close Five Points Peachtree Entrance as Next Phase of Transformation Begins

MARTA Interim CEO Charts Course for Safer, Faster, More Reliable Transit Ahead of World Cup

Atlanta Beltline Nears 2030 Completion with Big Progress and Bigger Goals World-Class Transit for World-Class Soccer: MARTA Steps Up

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Atlanta Pauses Construction for Fourth of July, Ramps Up FIFA World Cup Prep

Atlanta pauses construction for July 4 travel, while fast-tracking downtown upgrades ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 to improve roads, sidewalks, and connectivity.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | July 2, 2025

In preparation for holiday travel and the arrival of global visitors next summer, the Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) has announced a temporary halt on several construction projects, effective Thursday afternoon. The pause, aimed at easing traffic congestion for Independence Day, will last from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 9 a.m. on Monday, July 7.

ATLDOT Commissioner Solomon Caviness said the move is part of a broader plan to keep residents safe and mobile over the busy holiday weekend while maintaining momentum on critical infrastructure upgrades.

ATL DOT Commissioner – Solomon Caviness, IV

“We want to make sure that our improvements are in line with equity, safety, and mobility,” Caviness said. “And support our Vision Zero initiative to bring fatalities and serious injuries through crashes down to zero by the year 2040.”

The city formed the Atlanta Department of Transportation in 2019 to serve as the central agency for all transportation-related issues. The department acts as a one-stop shop for citizens and outside partners. It was built with dedicated staff pulled from Public Works, City Planning, and Renew Atlanta. ATLDOT is fully equipped to plan, design, build, and maintain the city’s mobility network under the One Atlanta Strategic Transportation Plan.

$120 Million Push to Improve Downtown

The construction moratorium is just a brief pause in a significant, $120 million infrastructure campaign, approved in October 2024, that specifically targets Downtown Atlanta ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.. With an estimated 300,000 visitors expected for eight matches, the city is working diligently to complete a variety of upgrades.

Ongoing efforts include:

20 miles of street resurfacing
11 miles of sidewalk repairs
200 crosswalk restripings
150 new streetlights
80 wheelchair ramps
New signage and wayfinding systems

Many of these projects fall under the city’s Vision Zero Action Plan, a national initiative aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities. Atlanta saw 100 traffic fatalities in 2021; since then, deaths have dropped by 23%, a significant achievement in our ongoing efforts to improve road safety.

“Ahead of next summer, we want to make sure that we have the most presentable downtown and the safest downtown possible,” Caviness emphasized.

MLK & Ted Turner Viaduct to Reopen

Among the marquee projects nearing completion is the MLK and Ted Turner Viaduct Reconnection Project, a long-awaited effort to restore a key passageway linking Atlanta’s government district with the city’s entertainment core.

Initially built in 1922, the viaduct had been closed for years due to major infrastructure failures. Phase one of the restoration was completed in 2022. Phase two began in late 2024. According to Caviness, the final portion of the bridge is expected to reopen to traffic in mid-July.

“It’s an important connector from our Downtown government district over to the entertainment and sports complex,” he said, referring to the area that includes Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena.

Once reopened, the viaduct is expected to improve traffic flow and lay the groundwork for the Centennial Yards development, a sweeping overhaul project meant to reimagine Atlanta’s downtown core.

Momentum to Resume Monday

While the moratorium temporarily halts active work zones, Caviness says the department is ready to resume progress first thing Monday morning.

“On Monday, we will continue the work on our resurfacing in the downtown district, which includes over 25 centerline miles of roadway,” Caviness said. “We’re also bringing more than 11 miles of sidewalk improvements to the downtown area.”

The construction freeze serves not only to reduce holiday congestion but also signals the city’s seriousness in addressing both public safety and international visibility ahead of FIFA 2026.

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New Challenges, New Approaches: DeKalb County Strengthens Regional Ties and Invests in Community Growth

DeKalb County boosts regional collaboration, secures Memorial Drive redevelopment, invests in youth public safety, and delivers over $200 million in tax relief for homeowners in 2025.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | July 1, 2025

DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson hosted her first Metro Atlanta Chairs Meeting this week. The purpose of this meeting was to bring together leaders from the region’s largest counties to tackle shared challenges and spark regional cooperation, particularly in areas such as transportation, affordable housing, infrastructure, economic development, and public safety.

Held in DeKalb County, the quarterly meeting welcomed Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson of Gwinnett County, Chairwoman Dr. Alieka Anderson-Henry of Clayton County, and Chairman Robb Pitts of Fulton County. Cobb County Chairwoman Lisa Cupid was unable to attend but remains an active participant in the five-county coalition representing over half of Georgia’s population.

The leaders focused on key regional issues, including transportation, affordable housing, infrastructure, economic development, and public safety—areas that require cross-county coordination to achieve lasting solutions.

“This meeting allowed us to have productive conversations on how we can work together as a region,” said CEO Cochran-Johnson. “These challenges don’t stop at county lines, and collaboration is key.”

The Metro Atlanta Chairs Meeting rotates among counties, and this marked DeKalb’s first time hosting under Cochran-Johnson’s leadership. She emphasized the importance of unified strategies, shared knowledge, and strong partnerships in addressing complex regional issues.

Investing in the Future: DeKalb Acquires Strategic Property on Memorial Drive

In a bold move to spur redevelopment, DeKalb County has completed the $18.1 million purchase of 4380 Memorial Drive—a 24-acre site with 200,000 square feet of buildings that the county had rented for more than two decades.

“After renting this property for 25 years, DeKalb County now owns it, and that’s a major win for our future,” said Cochran-Johnson. “We’re looking forward to making this site work for the community as part of our long-term commitment to building economic development in DeKalb.”

The site is located near MARTA’s Kensington station, making it a prime location for a transit-oriented, mixed-use development. Jacob Vallo, DeKalb’s new Chief Development Officer and a veteran in metro Atlanta real estate, led the acquisition.

“This land is a transit-oriented development site that serves as a significant opportunity to increase the momentum of the Memorial Drive revitalization,” Vallo said.

The investment in the strategic property on Memorial Drive was financed through a 10-year tax-exempt bond issued by the DeKalb Urban Redevelopment Authority and purchased by Regions Capital Advantage, Inc. These entities played a crucial role in the acquisition, which is expected to accelerate growth in South DeKalb. The county will work with Decide DeKalb to identify a development partner for the site.

Youth Pipeline Initiative Cultivates Next Generation of Public Safety Leaders

DeKalb County Fire Rescue and the DeKalb County School District wrapped up their Youth Public Safety Pipeline initiative with a Family Field Day celebration on June 27. The event marked the conclusion of the weeklong Xplor Lab Public Safety Camp, which offered hands-on experience to more than 50 middle and high school students.

Camp activities included CPR certification, crime scene simulations, fire science, forensics, and emergency response training. The camp culminated in a full-day session at the DeKalb County Fire Academy, where students worked alongside fire and EMS professionals.

“This partnership is about more than careers—it’s about creating purpose, building leadership, and empowering our youth,” said Fire Chief Darnell Fullum. “We are proud to be at the forefront of a transformative approach to recruitment, education, and community impact.”

The initiative builds a strong pipeline for future public safety professionals and reflects DeKalb County’s commitment to youth empowerment and leadership development.

Record-Setting Tax Relief Announced for Homeowners

DeKalb County homeowners will see significant tax savings in 2025, thanks to the county’s Equalized Homestead Option Sales Tax (EHOST) credit, which will provide $206.3 million in property tax relief for residents with homestead exemptions.

“DeKalb County is the only county in the state with a one-penny sales tax that’s dedicated 100 percent to property tax relief,” said Cochran-Johnson. “All residents with a homestead exemption will receive the EHOST credit. Taxpayers have until July 14 to apply.”

Here’s how the credit breaks down:

A $450,000 home will receive $424.23 in savings.
A $300,000 home will receive $275.24 in savings.

The $206.3 million will be distributed as follows:

$193.5 million will be applied to countywide millage rates, including County Operations and the Hospital Fund.
$12.8 million applied to other millage rates for cities or special county services.
The remaining funds will be proportionally distributed to cities and unincorporated areas ased on the tax digest.

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing the proposed resolution to adopt the 2025 millage rates. If passed, this initiative will continue providing historic levels of tax relief to DeKalb County residents.

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UVA President Resigns to Protect Students, Jobs from Trump’s Threat of Cuts

UVA President Jim Ryan resigns amid Trump administration pressure over DEI policies, raising alarms about political interference in higher education leadership and academic freedom.

By Milton Kirby | Richmond, VA | July 1, 2025

In an unprecedented clash between federal authority and academic independence, University of Virginia President James E. Ryan resigned Friday following what officials described as direct political pressure from President Donald Trump’s administration. The resignation comes amid a federal investigation into the university’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts.

Virginia Sen. Mark Warner called the resignation “outrageous” during a Sunday appearance on CBS’s Face the Nation. He accused the Trump administration of using the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Department of Education (DOE) as political weapons to dismantle DEI initiatives and force leadership changes at prominent universities.

“This is the most outrageous action this crowd has taken on education,” Warner said. “Jim Ryan had done a very good job. He just completed a major capital campaign. He should not have been forced out.”

According to Warner, UVA received an “explicit” warning from the administration that if Ryan did not resign by a specified deadline, the university would face sweeping federal funding cuts. These included slashed research grants, loss of student financial aid, and revoked international student visas.

Ryan, who had planned to step down next year, ultimately accelerated his departure to shield the UVA community from fallout.

“To make a long story short, I am inclined to fight for what I believe in… But I cannot make a unilateral decision to fight the federal government in order to save my own job,” Ryan wrote in a heartfelt resignation letter Ryan wrote in a heartfelt resignation letter. “To do so would… appear selfish and self-centered to the hundreds of employees who would lose their jobs… and the hundreds of students who could lose financial aid or have their visas withheld.”

A Sudden Resignation, a Lasting Impact

The federal investigation into UVA is part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration to dismantle DEI programs in education. Though UVA’s Board of Visitors voted to dissolve its Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in March, DOJ officials reportedly accused the university of failing to go far enough. A June 17 letter from the department, according to The New York Times, reiterated that the university was still out of compliance.

Ryan’s resignation marks the first time a sitting university president has stepped down under direct federal pressure tied to financial threats. Higher education leaders say the move sets a dangerous precedent.

“This is a dark day for the University of Virginia and a dark day for higher education,” said Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education. “It’s clear the administration is not done and will use every tool it can make or invent to exert its will over higher education.”

Community Reactions

UVA’s Board of Visitors accepted Ryan’s resignation and activated its Continuity of Operations Plan. Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Jennifer “J.J.” Wagner Davis will serve as acting president while a nationwide search for a permanent successor begins.

“Jim Ryan has been an extraordinary president,” said outgoing Rector Robert Hardie. “He has led our institution to unprecedented heights, always doing so with grace and humility… UVA has forever been changed for the better as a result of Jim’s exceptional leadership.”

Ryan’s tenure since 2018 was marked by major institutional growth, including the creation of the School of Data Science, a new performing arts center, and expanded financial aid for Virginia families. He was also instrumental in launching the Karsh Institute of Democracy and a new campus in Northern Virginia.

Warner and fellow Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine released a joint statement calling the DOJ’s demand for Ryan’s resignation “outrageous” and a “mistake that hurts Virginia’s future.”

National Consequences

The Trump administration’s move is part of a broader federal campaign to eliminate DEI practices nationwide. The administration has simultaneously threatened funding for Harvard, Columbia, and other elite universities over race-conscious admissions and hiring.

Critics argue that these moves signal the erosion of higher education’s independence from federal politics.

“There’s grave danger to the quality and future of higher education if these kinds of decisions become a function of the federal government,” said Armand Alacbay of the American Council of Trustees and Alumni.

Peter McDonough, general counsel for the American Council on Education, noted that federal law prohibits the government from micromanaging educational institutions. But the Trump administration has increasingly blurred the lines between political pressure and lawful oversight.

“If universities now have to align with whoever won the last presidential election, that’s a worry,” McDonough said.

A Historic Presidency Ends

Ryan, a first-generation college student who earned his law degree from UVA, had earned widespread respect among students, faculty, and alumni. His final message reflected both sorrow and resolve.

“This was an excruciatingly difficult decision, and I am heartbroken to be leaving this way,” he wrote. “But I could not in good conscience cause any real and direct harm to my colleagues and our students in order to preserve my own position.”

His departure underscores the high stakes battle over academic freedom, public governance, and the future of higher education under renewed federal scrutiny.

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UVA President Resigns to Protect Students, Jobs from Trump’s Threat of Cuts

UVA President Jim Ryan resigns amid Trump administration pressure over DEI policies, raising alarms about political interference in higher education leadership and academic freedom.

By Milton Kirby | Richmond, VA | July 1, 2025

Ryan, who had planned to step down next year, ultimately accelerated his departure to shield the UVA community from fallout.

A Sudden Resignation, a Lasting Impact

Community Reactions

Warner and fellow Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine released a joint statement calling the DOJ’s demand for Ryan’s resignation “outrageous” and a “mistake that hurts Virginia’s future.”

National Consequences

Critics argue that these moves signal the erosion of higher education’s independence from federal politics.

“If universities now have to align with whoever won the last presidential election, that’s a worry,” McDonough said.

A Historic Presidency Ends

Ryan, a first-generation college student who earned his law degree from UVA, had earned widespread respect among students, faculty, and alumni. His final message reflected both sorrow and resolve.

His departure underscores the high stakes battle over academic freedom, public governance, and the future of higher education under renewed federal scrutiny.

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Broadway Royalty and Civil Rights Warrior: Lena Horne Remembered

Lena Horne broke barriers in Hollywood and civil rights, becoming a trailblazing icon whose courage, music, and legacy continue to inspire generations of Black artists and activists.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | June 30, 2025

On what would have been her 108th birthday, the world pauses to honor Lena Horne—a legendary singer, actress, civil rights activist, and one of the most influential Black women in American history. Horne’s career, which spanned over seven decades, was defined not only by her talent and glamour but by her fierce determination to fight against racial injustice and challenge the limits placed on her by society and Hollywood.

Born Lena Mary Calhoun Horne on June 30, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, she emerged from a lineage of educated and civically engaged African Americans. Her grandmother, an early suffragist and activist, shaped Lena’s worldview. Despite a nomadic and, at times, lonely childhood spent following her mother’s theatrical career across the country, Horne carried the strength of her heritage with her. She left high school at 16 to perform at Harlem’s famed Cotton Club, launching a path that would eventually lead her to become the first Black performer signed to a long-term contract with a major Hollywood studio—Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM).

While at MGM, Horne appeared in more than 16 films between 1938 and 1978. Yet, due to racism, her roles were often stand-alone musical numbers that could be cut out when films were shown in segregated theaters. She was systematically denied leading roles, and in a cruel twist, even lost the part of Julie LaVerne in the 1951 film “Show Boat” to Ava Gardner, despite previously singing the part in another movie. The role was denied to her because of a ban on interracial relationships onscreen.

Horne never allowed these exclusions to define her. She sued restaurants and theaters for racial discrimination in the late 1940s and joined forces with civil rights leaders like Paul Robeson and Eleanor Roosevelt. Her activism led to blacklisting during the McCarthy era, but Horne never backed down. When the U.S. Army allowed German POWs to sit in front of Black soldiers at a World War II USO performance, she walked off stage and personally financed her own tour to entertain Black troops.

“My identity is very clear to me now. I am a Black woman. I’m free. I don’t have to be a symbol to anybody,” she once said. This powerful statement reflects Lena Horne’s journey of self-definition and pride. Her words continue to inspire others to embrace their own identities with confidence and self-awareness.

In the 1960s, Horne was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. She marched in Washington, performed at rallies in the Jim Crow South, and lent her voice and fame to the National Council of Negro Women and the NAACP. Her commitment to the cause was unwavering. When Medgar Evers was assassinated, she had just appeared with him at a rally in Mississippi, a testament to her dedication to the fight for equality.

Her resilience eventually led to triumphs. Horne reinvented herself in the 1980s, dazzling Broadway in the Tony Award-winning one-woman show, Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music. The show ran for 333 performances and earned her a special Tony Award, as well as two Grammys. It remains the longest-running solo show in Broadway history.

Despite battling multiple sclerosis, a fact she never publicly discussed, Horne lived to be 92. She died in 2010 of heart failure in New York City. Her funeral brought out luminaries like Dionne Warwick, Cicely Tyson, Audra McDonald, and Vanessa Williams—a who’s who of Black excellence shaped in her wake.

Despite the challenges she faced in her career, Horne’s personal life was also marked by resilience and strength. She was a mother and grandmother, and her family was a source of joy and support for her. She had two children, Gail and Edwin, and was later married to white bandleader Lennie Hayton. Their interracial marriage was initially kept secret due to public scrutiny, yet the relationship helped her navigate a treacherous industry with grace and strength.

Lena Horne’s legacy lives on through her granddaughter Jenny Lumet, a screenwriter who continues to carry on her grandmother’s work. Her name is immortalized in stamps, awards, and most fittingly, the Broadway theater that now bears her name—the Lena Horne Theatre. As the first Black woman to receive this honor, Lena Horne’s enduring impact is a testament to the power of her life and work.

From stormy beginnings to a triumphant, unyielding voice, Lena Horne carved her name into history with elegance and courage. She was not only a fierce activist but also a jazz singer, a movie star, and a patriot. Her performances, both on screen and on stage, were marked by her undeniable talent and grace. Above all, she was a symbol of pride and perseverance, leaving an indelible mark on the arts and civil rights.

Today, on Lena Horne Day, her story continues to inspire artists, activists, and dreamers worldwide. Her legacy, like her music, will never fade.

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How Much Did Trump’s Strikes Damage Iran?

Despite bold claims of obliteration, U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities face scrutiny as experts warn true damage and uranium status remain uncertain.

By Olivier Knox | US News | June 25, 2025

U.S. warplanes and Tomahawk missiles hit the targets they meant to hit. The stealth bombers then exited Iranian airspace with no losses. Day-after satellite imagery suggested significant damage – it’s not all obvious because one of the sites is burrowed into a mountain.

The United Nations nuclear watchdog agency, the International Atomic Energy Agency, said that even if American bombs did not reach all the way into Iran’s underground facilities, “given the explosive payload utilized, and the extreme vibration-sensitive nature of centrifuges, very significant damage is expected to have occurred.”

• The U.S. strikes came after an Israeli campaign targeting top Iranian nuclear scientists, reportedly killing at least 14 of them. Israel also systematically went after the SPND, which is basically a military research and development arm of the Iranian military and is thought to oversee the country’s nuclear program.

On a deeper level, we’re left with a lot of questions: What’s the state of Iran’s nuclear and missile programs? Did Iranian stockpiles of enriched uranium survive? Can the Iranians rebuild? Will they choose to do so? Did the strikes ruin chances of negotiations between Washington and Tehran?

On the last one, Trump said on the sidelines of a NATO summit in The Hague that he expected talks to resume next week.

‘OBLITERATED.’ Or Maybe Not?

In remarks to the nation from the White House, Trump quickly declared the strikes had “completely and fully obliterated” Iran’s principal sites for uranium enrichment – a process central to building an atomic weapon.

Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the Iranian facilities had suffered “extremely severe damage and destruction” and that it would take time to assess the actual results.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared “our bombing campaign obliterated Iran’s ability to create nuclear weapons.”

On Tuesday, The New York Times and other outlets reported that a preliminary, classified Defense Intelligence Agency assessment found that the weekend strikes only set back Iran’s nuclear program by a few months, citing officials familiar with the DIA’s findings.

• According to the DIA report, the strikes sealed off the entrances to two of the three principal targets but did not collapse their underground operations.

• The assessment also said Iran moved much of its stockpile of enriched uranium before the strikes. “Some of that may have been moved to secret nuclear sites maintained by Iran,” the Times said.

• U.S. officials pointedly noted that the DIA’s findings were “low confidence.”

• The White House promptly denounced “fake news.” And Trump condemned CNN, MSNBC and The New York Times as “scum.”

But appearing on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday, Vice President JD Vance had implicitly acknowledged that some amount of Iran’s uranium stocks was unaccounted for.

“We’re going to work in the coming weeks to ensure that we do something with that fuel,” Vance said. “And that’s one of the things that we’re going to have conversations with the Iranians about.”

The ‘BDA’

Get ready to hear a lot more pundits and officials refer to “the BDA.” That’s “battle-damage assessment.”

To understand the road from here, I reached out to Eric Edelman, a diplomat by training who has served in senior positions at the departments of State and Defense, and is someone I have known for years.

“BDA is always tricky and first reports are not usually reliable,” Eric cautions. But, he says, “‘obliterated’ is not a term that any serious military or intel(ligence) analyst would use.”

“It may be a few weeks or more before people will be able to come to reasonable judgment about how effective the Israeli and U.S. bombing has been on degrading the Iranian program,” Eric says, while noting that experts think Iran’s atomic ambitions have been severely set back.

• A comprehensive BDA will include MASINT (measurement and signature intelligence) to assess damage to Iran’s Fordo site, dug into a mountain. The word Eric used is “subsidence,” which I did not know. It’s basically “how much a given stretch of land caved in.”

• There will also be COMINT (communications intelligence, like intercepted phone calls), SIGINT (signals intelligence, any intercepted electronic messaging).

“The proliferation of open-source intelligence seems to have turned everybody and their brother into an expert but there are a lot of variables at play here and assessments are always tinged with a range of uncertainties,” Eric says.

So now, we wait.

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DeKalb County to Host Major Job Fair with 500+ Openings Across Departments

DeKalb County hosts July 10 job fair with over 500 openings, including 250 public safety roles. On-site interviews and same-day offers available. Register now.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | June 25, 2025

DeKalb County is opening its doors to job seekers with a countywide job fair scheduled for Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Georgia Piedmont Technical College, located at 495 N. Indian Creek Drive in Clarkston, GA.

DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson announced the hiring event on Wednesday, emphasizing its importance as part of her administration’s commitment to reshaping the county’s future. “This job fair is one of the ways we’re re-imagining DeKalb,” she said. “It is one of the ways we are investing in people and helping them thrive.”

The county currently has more than 500 positions available across various departments. Of those, 250 vacancies are in public safety roles, including positions in police, fire, and emergency services. County representatives will conduct on-site interviews and same-day job offers may be extended to qualified candidates.

The hiring event is a tangible reflection of our broader workforce development strategy, a key focus outlined during Cochran-Johnson’s recent State of the County address. This strategy is our commitment to making DeKalb a model of community-focused governance and innovation, ensuring a bright future for our workforce.

DeKalb County’s government careers page highlights a workplace culture focused on “collaboration, teamwork, and achievement” and welcomes applicants to a workforce that is “diversified and inclusive.” The site is updated weekly with the latest job vacancies, and residents are encouraged to join the DeKalb talent community to stay informed about new opportunities.

Job seekers are encouraged to explore opportunities in various fields, including engineering, sanitation, public safety, customer service, parks and recreation, finance, and public health.

The job fair is a free and inclusive event, open to all members of the public. While registration is required, it’s a simple step to secure a spot and gain early access to job postings and interview information.

Hot Jobs Available Now

Police Officers & Firefighters
Sanitation Drivers & Technicians
Administrative Support Specialists
Facilities & Grounds Maintenance Staff
Engineers & Project Managers
Health Inspectors & Environmental Specialists

The DeKalb County jobs website is updated weekly, and interested candidates can join the county’s talent community to stay informed about future vacancies.

For more information or to register, visit the DeKalb County Job Fair Registration Page. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with potential employers and explore exciting career opportunities in DeKalb County!

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Alvin Bragg, Manhattan prosecutor who took on Trump, wins Democratic primary in bid for second term

Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg wins Democratic primary, advancing to face GOP challenger amid high-profile Trump and Weinstein prosecutions and growing national spotlight on criminal justice.

By Jennifer Pelts | Associated Press | June 24, 2025

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, the prosecutor who oversaw the historic hush-money case against President Donald Trump, won Tuesday’s Democratic primary as he seeks reelection.

Bragg defeated Patrick Timmins — a litigator, law professor and former Bronx assistant district attorney — to advance to November’s general election. About 70% of registered Manhattan voters are Democrats.

The first-term incumbent will face Republican Maud Maron, who was a public defender for decades and previously ran for Congress and NYC’s City Council as a Democrat.

Bragg has long been one of the nation’s most prominent prosecutors, spotlighted in TV’s “Law & Order” and other shows. The DA directs about 600 attorneys in one of the biggest local prosecutors’ offices in the U.S.

He raised the office’s profile still further by bringing the hush-money case. His predecessor, fellow Democrat Cyrus R. Vance Jr., spent years investigating various Trump dealings but didn’t procure an indictment.

Bragg decided to focus on how and why porn actor Stormy Daniels was paid $130,000 to clam up about her claims of a 2006 sexual encounter with the married Trump. The payment was made, through the then-candidate’s personal attorney, weeks before the 2016 presidential election. Trump’s company records logged the money as a legal expense.

Trump denied any wrongdoing and any sexual involvement with Daniels. But a jury last year found him guilty of 33 felony counts of falsifying business records, the first-ever felony conviction of a former — and now again — U.S. commander in chief.

rump is appealing the verdict. The Republican president has long derided the case as a political “witch hunt,” and he has kept lambasting Bragg by social media as recently as March.

Bragg, 51, was a civil rights lawyer, federal prosecutor and top deputy to New York’s attorney general before becoming DA. Raised in Harlem and educated at Harvard, he’s the first Black person to hold the post.

His tenure had a rocky start. Days after taking office in 2022, he issued a memo telling staffers not to prosecute some types of cases, nor seek bail or prison time in some others. After criticism from the police commissioner and others, Bragg apologized for creating “confusion” and said his office wasn’t easing up on serious cases.

The matter continued to animate his critics. Trump repeatedly branded Bragg “soft on crime,” and Timmins said on his campaign site homepage that the memo “has brought about increased crime and a perception of chaos in the subway and on our streets.”

Timmins — who has raised about $154,000 to Bragg’s $2.2 million since January 2022 — also pledged to do more to staunch subway crime, keep cases from getting dismissed for failure to meet legal deadlines, and prioritize hate crimes, among other things.

Bragg’s campaign emphasized his efforts to fight gun violence, help sexual assault survivors, prosecute hate crimes and go after bad landlords and exploitative bosses, among other priorities.

His office, meanwhile, has been enmeshed in a string of high-profile cases in recent months.

The office is using a post-9/11 terrorism law to prosecute UnitedHealthcare CEO killing suspect Luigi Mangione, lost a homicide trial against Marine veteran and Republican cause célèbre Daniel Penny in a case that stirred debate about subway safety and self-defense, and retried former movie mogul Harvey Weinstein on sex crimes charges.

Mangione, Penny and Weinstein all pleaded not guilty.

Bragg unexpectedly inherited the Vance-era Weinstein case after an appeals court ordered a new trial. In a jumbled outcome, jurors this month convicted Weinstein on one top charge, acquitted him of another and didn’t reach a verdict on a third, lower-level charge — which Bragg aims to bring to trial a third time.

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6 Unknowns After Trump Strikes Iran

Trump’s strike on Iran raises global stakes, questioning nuclear impact, retaliation, diplomacy, U.S. war powers, and MAGA unity in a potential turning point for his presidency.

By Olivier Knox | US News | June 23, 2025

President Donald Trump went all in this weekend on the biggest gamble of his second term: A direct military strike on Iran, aimed at destroying – or at least setting back – that country’s nuclear program. Here are six questions the historic attack raises.

1. How Effective Was It?

Trump says the American strikes “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s main facilities for uranium enrichment – the process of making fuel potent enough for nuclear bombs.

But neither Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth nor Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, would say whether Iran retained the ability to make a nuclear weapon. Caine said the Iranian facilities had suffered “extremely severe damage and destruction” and that it would take time to assess the actual results. That’s not just a Pentagon job: The International Atomic Energy Agency, should it gain access to the sites, could also weigh in.

2. Does Iran Retaliate?

The American strikes, like the Israeli attacks that preceded them, came at a time when Iran is historically weak. Most of its regional proxies – Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon – have been bloodied, raising doubts about their ability to retaliate on Tehran’s behalf.

But the roughly 40,000 U.S. military personnel on the ground in the region could still face threats from Iran-aligned militias in Syria and Iraq, as well as the Houthis in Yemen, who withstood a U.S. military campaign earlier this year.

On Monday, Iran said it had fired a volley of missiles at the al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, home to thousands of U.S. troops. Qatar said its air defenses intercepted the rockets. There were no reports of deaths or injuries.

Iran’s parliament has approved a measure endorsing the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a choke point for international trade, according to Iranian state media. If Tehran successfully shuts it down, it could lead to higher gas prices and disrupted supply chains in Europe and the United States.

In the past, American decisionmakers told me they worried about Iranian retaliation in the form of terrorist attacks. That’s a huge question mark here – and it would sharply escalate the conflict.

3. Are the U.S.-Iran Talks Dead?

Did the U.S. attack kill off prospects of nuclear negotiations with Iran? Or did it create the conditions for coercive diplomacy?

Asked whether diplomacy was still an option, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told reporters in Istanbul: “This is not the case right now.”

In the aftermath of the strikes, senior American officials played down the prospects the attack was just the start of a broader military campaign – while retaining that as an option.

“This is most certainly not open-ended,” Hegseth said.

But the enemy gets a vote. And American warnings of, “If they hit back, we’ll hit back harder” makes this open-ended.

4. What Will Russia and China Do?

Russia and China were central to the diplomacy that yielded a nuclear deal with Iran under President Barack Obama. Trump ripped it up, saying he would quickly get a better deal. He did not, which is part of what got the world to the current volatile moment.

Iran’s foreign minister headed to Moscow on Monday to seek help from Russian President Vladimir Putin, Reuters reported. It was not immediately clear what sort of assistance Tehran wants.

China has condemned the attacks. So did Putin. But the real question is if they object enough to take practical action.

5. Is Congress Out of The ‘War’ Conversation?

Every White House I have covered – from the last days of President Bill Clinton onward – has had a testy relationship with Congress when it comes to which branch of government decides whether, when and how young Americans will be hurled into military conflict abroad.

The Constitution vests Congress with the power to declare war or authorize the use of military force. It also declares that the president is commander in chief of the armed forces.

I have not yet seen a formal administration notification to Congress laying out the legal justification for striking Iran. What will they formally invoke?

But Trump is hardly the first president to sideline Congress in matters of war. More on that in tomorrow’s newsletter.

6. Will MAGA Fissure?

After condemning his predecessors’ “forever wars” and repudiating the neocon blueprint that led to open-ended interventions in the Middle East, Trump has now delivered the neocon dream project: A military attack to try to neuter Tehran’s nuclear program and possibly precipitate regime change.

Some of his most fervent supporters had warned in the run up to this weekend’s strikes that this would amount to an “unforgivable betrayal” of his voters.

Will the movement fissure? Probably not. Trump has proved time and time again that Republicans may kvetch a bit but will eventually line up behind him.

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