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The US Congress has passed Donald Trump's tax and spending bill with a vote of 218 to 214 in the House of Representatives, following Senate approval earlier in the week. This significant legislative victory for Trump meets his July 4th deadline and includes permanent tax cuts, elimination of taxes on tips and Social Security, along with $150 billion each for border security and military expenditures. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the bill could add $3.3 trillion to federal deficits over the next decade and reduce health coverage for millions, though the White House disputes these projections. Democrats strongly opposed the legislation, characterizing it as harmful to vulnerable Americans while benefiting the wealthy.

Michael Madsen, the 67-year-old Hollywood actor known for his roles in Quentin Tarantino films like Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill, died Thursday morning at his Malibu home of apparent cardiac arrest. Madsen's acting career spanned four decades, during which he portrayed both law enforcers and lawbreakers in numerous films and television shows, while more recently lending his voice to video games including Grand Theft Auto III and the Dishonored series. Born in Chicago to a firefighter father and filmmaker mother, Madsen is survived by his sister Virginia Madsen, an Oscar-nominated actress, and four children including actor Christian Madsen, having recently filed for divorce from his wife of 28 years following the death of their son Hudson.

The Black Entrepreneurs Leaders and Learners (BELL) hosted their 5th Annual Business & Government Contracting Summit on June 27-28, attracting 130 attendees seeking knowledge about accessing capital, contracts, and opportunities. Over 30 speakers, including procurement officers, supplier diversity leaders, and successful business owners, shared strategies for securing government and corporate contracts across more than 25 workshops and panels. Co-founders Brian Ware and Jayton Harps created the summit to address the knowledge and networking gaps preventing peers from accessing contracts. The two-day event featured representatives from numerous agencies offering insider knowledge on certification and contract procurement, alongside a $2,500 pitch competition and dedicated sessions for nonprofits and small businesses.

The County of San Diego launched its annual Cool Zones program on June 1, providing free air-conditioned spaces where residents can escape high temperatures throughout the summer months. Running until October 31, the program offers more than 80 locations across the county, including all 33 County branch libraries, teen and senior centers in County parks, and various other public and private facilities. Residents can find detailed information about each Cool Zone site, including hours, addresses, phone numbers, and pet policies, through the interactive search tool on the Coolzones.org website.

In a stunning upset at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships, Ukrainian Dayana Yastremska (world No. 42) defeated second-seeded Coco Gauff in straight sets, 7-6(3), 6-1. Gauff, who recently won the French Open, struggled throughout the match with nine double faults and only six winners compared to Yastremska's sixteen. This loss, combined with Jessica Pegula's defeat, marked a historic moment as the first time in women's major Open Era history that two of the top three seeds lost in the first round. After the match, Gauff acknowledged feeling mentally overwhelmed following her French Open victory, while Yastremska celebrated what she called the biggest win of her career.

Mosquitoes in the Rolando neighborhood of San Diego have tested positive for West Nile virus, marking the first such occurrence in the county since 2023, alongside four positive tests in dead birds this year. County environmental health officials are reminding residents to follow their "Prevent, Protect, Report" guidelines to reduce the risk of transmission, which includes eliminating standing water that allows mosquitoes to breed. While no human cases have been reported in San Diego County this year, West Nile virus remains a serious health concern as it can cause symptoms ranging from headache and fever to, in rare cases, severe illness or death. The virus primarily affects birds but can be transmitted to humans when certain mosquitoes feed on infected birds and subsequently bite people.

Syvilla Fort, Fontella Bass, and Zelma Watson George were pioneering Black women who significantly impacted American arts and culture during the 20th century. Fort developed the influential Afro-Modern dance technique and taught notable performers despite facing racial barriers to her own ballet education. Bass rose to fame with her hit "Rescue Me" and built a diverse career spanning soul, R&B, and jazz rooted in her gospel background. George broke barriers as an opera singer while also serving as a sociologist, U.N. delegate, and advisor to President Eisenhower, leaving behind a multifaceted legacy of artistic and public service achievements.

Sean "Diddy" Combs' reputation has been significantly damaged during a nearly two-year period of allegations culminating in his recent trial where he was acquitted of major sex trafficking charges but convicted on two lesser counts. Crisis communications experts suggest that while Combs avoided becoming "the next R. Kelly," terms like "freak-offs" and evidence presented at trial have permanently tarnished his public image. Despite his partial legal victory, Combs remains incarcerated awaiting sentencing, having already lost business partnerships, an honorary degree, and a key to New York City following allegations from his ex-girlfriend Cassie and the subsequent emergence of a hotel video showing him assaulting her. PR professionals believe Combs' future reputation management will require strategic positioning, potentially as either a survivor who defeated federal charges or as someone seeking redemption.

The U.S. Department of Justice has issued a memo making denaturalization a "top-five priority," ostensibly targeting serious crimes but including a concerning catch-all provision for "any case deemed sufficiently important." Civil rights advocates worry this policy creates a two-tiered citizenship system where naturalized Americans face greater vulnerability than birthright citizens, with lower evidentiary standards and no guaranteed legal representation. The policy has already shown potential for political targeting, as demonstrated by GOP officials calling for the denaturalization of New York assemblyman Zohran Mamdani due to his political views. Critics fear this approach could evolve from focusing on criminal cases to becoming a tool for political retaliation and suppressing immigrant civic participation.

Paloma Aguirre, Democratic Mayor of Imperial Beach, appears to have won the San Diego County District 1 supervisorial race with 53% of votes, creating a Democratic majority on the five-member board. Her victory promises to break the deadlock that has prevented passage of partisan measures due to Republican opposition. Aguirre campaigned on addressing cross-border sewage issues and reducing living costs for working families. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors manages an $8.5 billion budget overseeing critical social services including public health, housing, law enforcement, and infrastructure.

African migrant leaders are criticizing the Trump administration for what they describe as racially biased detention and deportation policies specifically targeting their communities. During a June 25 press conference, representatives from various African migrant organizations highlighted concerns about the new travel ban imposed on June 9 affecting primarily African and Middle Eastern countries, with plans to expand to 16 more nations. Leaders like Dauda Sesay from African Communities Together argued that despite African migrants representing only 1.3% of the U.S. population, they face disproportionate immigration enforcement, with many being detained by ICE while traveling to immigration hearings. The organizations challenged the administration's visa overstay rationale for the travel ban, noting data discrepancies that unfairly impact African nations.

Senate Republicans narrowly passed President Donald Trump's tax cuts and spending bill with a 50-50 vote that required Vice President JD Vance to cast the tie-breaking vote. The contentious "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" faced opposition from Democrats and three Republican senators—Thom Tillis, Susan Collins, and Rand Paul. The 887-page package, which includes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts and $1.2 trillion in spending reductions primarily affecting Medicaid and food stamps, now returns to the House for approval before potentially reaching Trump's desk by his July Fourth deadline. Congressional Budget Office analysis shows the bill would increase the deficit by nearly $3.3 trillion over a decade and leave 11.8 million more Americans uninsured by 2034.

Sean "Diddy" Combs received a mixed verdict in his high-profile criminal trial, being acquitted of serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges that carried potential life sentences, while being convicted of two prostitution-related offenses under the Mann Act that carry up to 10 years imprisonment. The jury deliberated for approximately 13 hours over three days before determining that Combs had illegally transported people, including girlfriends and male sex workers, across state lines for sexual encounters. Despite his lawyers' arguments that women were willing participants in these encounters, the judge denied bail for Combs, who has already served nine months since his September arrest. The case featured testimony from his ex-girlfriend Cassie and others who described violent behavior and coerced sexual encounters, severely damaging the once-celebrated hip-hop mogul's public image and career.

In an opinion piece for NNPA, Dawn Montgomery criticizes Joy Reid for erroneously calling the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) the "lone" trade organization representing Black media, thereby overlooking the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). Montgomery emphasizes that the NNPA has represented the Black Press since 1940, predating NABJ by 15 years, and calls this oversight an erasure of legacy. The author urges recognition of NNPA's historical significance in Black media while suggesting that collaboration between NABJ and NNPA is necessary to honor their connected heritage. The critique frames this issue as part of a larger pattern of historical erasure affecting Black institutions.

Blanket Sounds, a free outdoor event celebrating Black Music Month, transformed Waterfront Park into a vibrant community gathering this past weekend. Curated by Loren Cobbs, founder of Blanket Sounds and SD Melanin, the celebration featured live performances, DJ sets, and activities while showcasing Black-owned businesses and artistic expression. The event combined musical performances from local artists like JB Saxx and DJ Cowbell Chris with cultural activities including art zones for children and vendor booths, all designed to create an intentional space for San Diego's Black community. Supported by the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation, Blanket Sounds successfully united hundreds of attendees in a celebration of Black music's rich legacy and will continue as a seasonal series through summer.

The special general election for San Diego County's District 1 supervisor position has concluded, filling the vacant seat previously held by Nora Vargas. This election is significant as the winner will serve through January 2029 and influence the political direction of the County Board of Supervisors. Over 370,000 ballots were distributed to registered voters for this important race that will determine who helps oversee the county's $8 billion budget and shape policies on public safety, housing, and health. Official results are still being tallied and will be announced soon, with further coverage to follow from the Voice & Viewpoint. # Who is affected - District 1 residents of San Diego County - The 370,000+ registered voters who received ballots - San Diego County residents affected by policy decisions on public safety, housing, and health # What action is being taken - Ballots from the special general election are currently being counted - The Voice & Viewpoint is actively covering the election results # Why it matters - The winner will serve until January 2029 on the County Board of Supervisors - The elected supervisor will help determine the political direction of the Board - The supervisor will influence policy decisions on public safety, housing, and health - The winner will help oversee the allocation of the county's $8 billion budget # What's next - Official election results will be announced soon - The Voice & Viewpoint will provide additional election results coverage

The Trump administration is considering cutting nearly $8 billion in federal education funding from California amid political disputes over immigration enforcement and transgender rights. This potential cut would affect crucial programs such as Title I, which serves low-income students, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which supports students with special needs. Education advocates warn these cuts would particularly harm Black students, who already face significant achievement gaps that a recent report projected wouldn't close until 2070 for reading and 2089 for math proficiency. California officials, including School Superintendent Tony Thurmond, are preparing to fight these potential cuts through legal and legislative means while encouraging community advocacy.

The article critiques Black Americans who are disengaged from immigration enforcement issues affecting Latino communities. Author Jasmyne A. Cannick warns that citizenship status won't protect Black Americans if the government expands its targeting, drawing parallels to historical criminalization of Black existence. She challenges those who claim to be politically conscious while ignoring Black immigrants' struggles, arguing that true liberation requires solidarity across borders. Cannick emphasizes that current immigration enforcement tactics represent a dangerous precedent that could eventually impact Black communities regardless of citizenship status.

of News Article California lawmakers and state agencies are working to address rising hate crimes and bias incidents across the state, as highlighted in a recent legislative hearing and two government reports. Assemblymember Corey Jackson chaired a hearing of the Assembly Select Committee on Racism, Hate, and Xenophobia, bringing together experts and community leaders to discuss the impact of hate and potential solutions. The California Department of Justice's report showed religious bias hate crimes increased by 3.0% in 2024, while the California Civil Rights Department estimated 2.6 million Californians experienced at least one act of hate between 2022 and 2023. Both reports confirmed that Black Californians experience hate incidents more frequently than any other racial or ethnic group, underscoring the need for continued funding of initiatives like the Stop the Hate program.

of California's 2025-26 Budget Deal California has approved a $321.1 billion state budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, addressing a $46.8 billion shortfall through various fiscal measures including cuts, delays, and revenue shifts. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the budget on June 27 following contentious negotiations between his administration and lawmakers over environmental reforms, education funding, and healthcare access. While the budget maintains funding for core programs important to many Californians, including education and housing initiatives, it introduces controversial changes to Medi-Cal, including new premium requirements and enrollment freezes for undocumented adults and asset tests for seniors. The final agreement came after legislative leaders tied the budget's approval to housing reform bills containing California Environmental Quality Act exemptions, reflecting difficult compromises made by all parties involved.

The U.S. House of Representatives must now consider a revised tax and spending bill after it narrowly passed the Senate with Vice President JD Vance's tie-breaking vote. The legislation faces significant resistance from various Republican factions concerned about its impact on the national deficit and cuts to social programs like Medicaid. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the Senate version could add $3.3 trillion to the deficit over ten years and result in approximately 12 million Americans losing health insurance by 2034. With President Trump's July 4th deadline approaching, House Speaker Mike Johnson faces challenges in reconciling the competing interests within his party to secure passage of the bill.

United Way of San Diego County's President and CEO Nancy L. Sasaki warns about the harmful impacts of the proposed "Big Beautiful Bill Act" (H.R. 1) currently under debate in Congress. The legislation threatens to cut critical programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and tax credits that many San Diego families rely on, especially as the region faces the highest inflation rate in the country with families making $46,000 less than needed for survival. Sasaki illustrates the importance of these programs through the story of Juan and Roberta's family, who benefited significantly from free tax preparation services and tax credits that provided a $4,300 refund. She urges community members to contact their Congressional representatives to reject the bill that would devastate vulnerable families and strain already limited community safety nets.

The San Diego Solidarity Network (SDSN) declared a state of civic emergency on June 18, 2025, in response to federal funding cuts that are severely impacting the region's social services. At an event held at the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center, community leaders highlighted how nonprofits across San Diego are experiencing layoffs, service reductions, and funding losses that threaten essential services including food access, housing support, climate resilience, and public health. The SDSN's emergency declaration calls for rapid investment in community organizations and support systems centered on racial equity, with Catalyst of San Diego and Imperial Counties launching the San Diego Resilient Response Fund to address these goals. Following the event, over 50 people participated in a conversation to develop strategies to protect San Diego's nonprofit sector from federal funding threats.

U.S. Representative Dwight Evans announced he will not seek reelection to his Philadelphia congressional seat, marking the end of a 45-year career in public office. The 71-year-old Democrat, who is currently serving his fifth term in Congress, stated he is in good health despite suffering a minor stroke last year. Before his congressional career, which began in 2016, Evans served for 36 years in the Pennsylvania state House of Representatives, where he became the first Black chairman of the Appropriations Committee. His heavily Democratic district is likely to see a competitive Democratic primary in 2026 to determine his successor.

Public Enemy has made a surprise return with "Black Sky Over the Projects: Apartment 2025," a new 12-track album available for 72 hours on a pay-what-you-want basis. The collection features Chuck D and Flavor Flav delivering pointed social commentary on topics including gun violence, climate denial, political corruption, and ageism. The album, which includes production from Carl Ryder, C-Doc, JP Hesser, and Sam Farrar, along with contributions from Green Day's Tré Cool, demonstrates the group's continued commitment to using hip-hop as a platform for addressing injustice. Throughout the record, Public Enemy maintains their signature style while tackling contemporary issues, reaffirming their relevance and determination to speak truth to power.

The California Black Freedom Fund (CBFF) has transformed into a permanent, independent institution called the Black Freedom Fund (BFF), continuing its mission to invest in Black-led organizations and communities throughout California. Since its inception, BFF has distributed over $45 million to 205 Black-serving organizations across 17 issue areas, with 95% of grants being unrestricted and 65% going to organizations led by Black women. Executive Director Marc Philpart led this evolution after the fund not only met but exceeded its initial $100 million goal, filling a crucial void in sustained support for Black power-building organizations. The BFF's work has become increasingly important as some public and private funding for minority-centered initiatives is being withdrawn.

North Carolina Republican Senator Thom Tillis has publicly challenged President Trump's budget bill on the Senate floor, arguing it would eliminate Medicaid coverage for 663,000 people in his state and 17 million Americans overall. Tillis stated the bill "will betray the promise Donald Trump made" regarding healthcare cuts and firmly declared the president had been misinformed about the legislation's impact. Following his opposition to the bill, Tillis was attacked by Trump, and subsequently announced he would not seek re-election. The controversial budget bill, which would affect multiple states including North Carolina, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Arkansas, is expected to be voted on this week and will significantly increase the national debt.

The NAACP California-Hawaii State Conference honored Secretary of State Dr. Shirley N. Weber and former State Senator Steven Bradford at its 13th annual Legacy Hall of Fame Gala on June 28, recognizing their decades of service and civil rights advocacy. Weber, California's first Black Secretary of State, was appointed by Governor Newsom in 2021 before being elected to a full term, and previously authored landmark legislation in the State Assembly including bills on police use of force and establishing California's Reparations Task Force. Bradford, the first Black person elected to the Gardena City Council who later served in both the Assembly and Senate, authored key legislation such as SB 2 allowing decertification of law enforcement officers for serious misconduct and the California Cannabis Equity Act. During a fireside chat moderated by California Black Media's executive director Regina Brown Wilson, both honorees reflected on their personal backgrounds, legislative experiences, and expressed concerns about current threats to civil rights in America.

Target CEO Brian Cornell met with members of the Congressional Black Caucus diversity task force on Capitol Hill on June 26, including Chairwoman Yvette Clarke, Rep. Steve Horsford, and Rep. Troy Carter. When questioned afterward, Cornell indicated the meeting provided helpful feedback and mentioned ongoing business priorities rather than addressing boycott concerns. The article notes that companies like Target face conflicting pressures regarding diversity policies, particularly as the Trump Administration has actively worked against diversity and inclusion initiatives, including issuing an executive order against DEI programs in January.

The 50501 Movement is organizing "Free America Weekend," a nationwide protest planned for July 4 across all 50 states to oppose President Trump's second-term policies. More than 170 events are scheduled, including rallies at state capitals, block parties, dance protests, and community gatherings, following earlier "No Kings Day" demonstrations. Organizers, including the Women's March, chose Independence Day to highlight perceived threats to democracy, citing Trump's executive orders on immigration, agency dismantling efforts, and the influence of Project 2025. The movement, which gained momentum through social media platforms like Instagram and Reddit, emphasizes nonviolent resistance while some local groups have reported receiving online threats and harassment.