The Excerpt: A Wednesday News Roundup

Today is Wednesday, May 7th, 2025. Welcome to another episode of The Excerpt. I’m Taylor Wilson, your host.

We have a diverse range of stories for you today, touching on legal battles, political activism, the ever-evolving landscape of corporate social responsibility, and international affairs.

Trump’s Legal Rollercoaster: Wins and Losses in Court

The judicial system delivered a mixed bag of results for President Donald Trump yesterday. In a major victory for the administration, the Supreme Court has granted the green light for his ban on transgender individuals serving in the military to proceed while ongoing legal challenges continue. This ruling effectively reinstates the ban, pending further court decisions. The court’s three liberal justices dissented, expressing their opposition to the request. Notably, the justices who supported the decision chose to remain anonymous and did not provide a detailed explanation, a common practice in emergency appeals.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt hailed the Supreme Court’s decision as a "massive victory." However, lawyers representing the transgender service members challenging the ban described the ruling as a "devastating blow." The legal battle is far from over, with further court proceedings expected to determine the long-term fate of the ban.

On the other hand, President Trump suffered a setback when a federal judge blocked the administration from implementing an executive order that aimed to shut down federal agencies responsible for funding museums and libraries, mediating labor disputes, and supporting minority-owned businesses. The executive order was part of Trump’s broader agenda to reduce the size and scope of the federal government, cutting spending across various sectors. The judge’s ruling prevents the administration from firing workers or taking other steps to dismantle these agencies, at least for the time being. It should be noted that tens of thousands of federal workers have been terminated, laid off or have accepted financial severance for their jobs.

Quilting for Democracy: A Stitch in Time

Amidst the often-divisive political climate, a group of women is employing a unique form of activism: quilting. I spoke with USA TODAY National Correspondent Trevor Hughes about this fascinating movement.

These quilters, organized by Mormon Women for Ethical Government and Jewish Women for Democracy, are driven by a desire to inject civility and respect into the political discourse. They believe that American political discourse has become excessively unpleasant and unproductive. Instead of resorting to personal attacks and dismissive rhetoric, they aim to foster constructive dialogue and bridge divides. This movement, originating in Utah, seeks to promote a more reasoned and empathetic approach to political engagement across the country.

Quilting has a rich history as a form of activism in the United States. Throughout history, women have used quilts to support various causes, from the abolition of slavery to women’s suffrage. The AIDS quilt serves as a poignant example of how quilting can raise awareness and advocate for social change.

These quilts send a tangible message to lawmakers. The project aims to promote the notion of disagreeing better. The project leaders argue that people should be able to discuss important issues like taxation and education without screaming at each other.

Trevor spoke to many of the women participating in the project and said that they are getting frustrated with the political climate. Many think politicians only listen to the loudest voices. However, quilting can tap into the more calm and rational sentiments.

FEMA’s Uncertain Future

The Trump administration is once again raising the possibility of dismantling the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). President Trump has reportedly discussed eliminating FEMA in the aftermath of recent natural disasters in California and North Carolina. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem echoed this sentiment during a congressional hearing yesterday, stating that the President believes FEMA has failed in its mission.

Representative Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the Appropriations committee, questioned the administration’s plans for FEMA, particularly in light of the proposed $644 million cut to FEMA grants in the President’s budget. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that federal disaster relief is readily available to all Americans, regardless of their location.

Pride Month and Corporate Support: A Shifting Landscape

Pride Month, a time of celebration and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, is just around the corner. However, the landscape of corporate support for LGBTQ+ rights appears to be shifting. I spoke with USA TODAY Senior Reporter Jessica Guynn about the waning support from national brands ahead of Pride Month.

Corporations used to boldly celebrate Pride month. From special collections in stores, to marketing promotions, companies have proudly supported LGBTQ+ rights. However, recently there has been some pushback. Last year, Target and Bud Light came under fire from anti-trans activists.

For years, corporations have actively supported LGBTQ+ equality, both internally through inclusive policies and externally through public endorsements of causes like same-sex marriage. The rise of "rainbow capitalism" has transformed Pride Month into a major marketing opportunity.

However, this year, many corporations are pulling support for Pride parades and shrinking marketing budgets. A recent study shows that about 2 out of every 5 corporations are decreasing their recognition of Pride.

Anti-DEI activist Robbie Starbuck has gained concessions from various corporations and President Trumps administration has moved aggressively to crack down on DEI. LGBTQ+ people represent significant purchasing power, estimated at $1.4 trillion annually. Nearly one quarter of adults in Gen Z identify as LGBTQ+. Despite the potential risks, marketers believe that corporations that show up for customers during Pride Month will be rewarded.

Real ID and a Papal Conclave

After numerous delays, the Real ID requirement officially takes effect today. Travelers flying within the United States will now need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or an approved alternative, such as a passport, to pass through airport security.

Meanwhile, a conclave begins today in Vatican City. Roman Catholic Cardinals will gather to elect the next Pope following the death of Pope Francis last month.

The Erosion of Soft Power: The US Agency for Global Media

The United States has long wielded significant soft power through various channels, including entertainment, education, and journalism. However, President Trump’s recent executive order to dismantle the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) poses a threat to this influence.

Japhet Quitzon from the Center for Strategic and International Studies warns that losing the USAGM could have dire consequences for people living in countries that lack a free press. Outlets like Voice of America, Radio Free Europe, and Radio Liberty play a crucial role in providing unbiased, factual news, particularly in an era of widespread misinformation and disinformation on social media.