Over the weekend, significant demonstrations unfolded in major American cities including Washington D.C., New York City, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles. Tens of thousands of protesters gathered to express their vehement opposition to spending cuts implemented by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), spearheaded by Elon Musk, and President Donald Trump’s broader policy agenda.

Speakers at the rallies, notably Reverend William Barber II, articulated a sentiment of deep concern, characterizing the actions of Musk and Trump as dictatorial. Barber emphasized the protesters’ resolve to maintain pressure on the two leaders until substantive change is realized. The protests were framed as a critical defense of democratic principles, with organizers vowing to remain steadfast in their opposition to what they termed “neofascist extremists.” The demonstrations signify a growing national resistance to the current political landscape and a commitment to challenging existing policies.

Following a significant downturn in US markets, attributed to China’s recent imposition of reciprocal tariffs, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun has issued a statement urging the United States to reconsider its trade policies. In a Facebook post, Jiakun asserted that “the market has spoken,” suggesting a direct correlation between US protectionist measures and economic instability.

Jiakun further emphasized the need for “equal-footed consultation” to resolve trade differences, calling upon the US to “cease its wrongful actions.” This sentiment is echoed by several Chinese commerce associations representing key industries, who have issued statements encouraging diversification and warning of inflationary pressures within the United States as a result of the escalating tariffs.

The current escalation stems from a recent announcement by former President Donald Trump of an additional 34 per cent tariff on Chinese goods, prompting a swift retaliatory response from China, including further levies on American goods and restrictions on rare earth element exports. The situation remains tense, with both sides demonstrating a firm commitment to their respective positions.

On Wednesday, District Court Judge Dale Ho dismissed, with prejudice, the federal criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This action effectively terminates the possibility of the Department of Justice (DOJ) resurrecting the five-count indictment against the Democrat in the US District Court in Manhattan.

The dismissal follows a controversial request by the Trump administration, nearly two months prior, to drop the corruption charges. The DOJ argued that prosecution would impede Mayor Adams’ ability to govern New York City and collaborate with the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

The request prompted significant internal dissent, culminating in the resignation of seven federal prosecutors, including the acting Manhattan US attorney. Their departure underscores the contentious nature of the decision to seek dismissal and the ethical questions it raised within the Department. The “with prejudice” ruling solidifies the finality of this complex and closely watched legal battle.