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President Donald Trump made some headlines last week when it was revealed he was doing an appearance with one of the more prominent college football media personalities in Josh Pate.

Among the topics discussed was former Alabama head coach Nick Saban, who played golf with Trump, former Florida and Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis the week prior.

Pate pried into what conversations between Trump and major figures in college football are like, and the President downplayed the football aspect, saying they talk more about politics than the sport.

“They talk to me about politics really, more so than football they like politics,” Trump said. “They’re all, obviously, very competitive people. But I would say for the most part we talk about politics. They want to know what’s happening with Iran. How’d you do that with Venezuela.”

Ironically, Saban has said in the past how much Trump is a fan of sports and wants to talk football when the two get together, so perhaps the two find common ground somewhere in the middle.

Saban has been one of the biggest advocates for NIL centered reform in the political landscape, and while Trump has taken some action, ultimately legislation has been unable to be passed.

Perhaps if the legendary head coach can stay close with Trump, he can encourage the President to help assist in making changes before it’s too late.

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.

President Donald Trump gave the first State of the Union address of his second term on Tuesday night, and making major headlines with their attendance was the United States gold medal winning hockey team fresh off their triumph over Canada.

Defeating the powerhouse neighbors to the north in a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory, US Hockey delivered America its first gold in the sport since the 1980 Miracle on Ice team. While there were numerous heroes who came up huge to help secure the win, the man who will go down in history is goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, who came up with 41 saves to preserve the victory for the red, white and blue.

During his speech, Trump announced Hellebuyck would be receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his heroics, the highest honor a citizen can get.

“Great athletes have gotten that, very great, the best,” Trump said. “I thought he deserved it. I did take a vote — every single one of them. I said, ‘I’m not giving it if anybody goes no,’ and every single one of them rapidly put up their hand. So, I want to thank you all. What a special job you did. What special champions you are.”

Last season, Hellebuyck became the first NHL goalie to win the league’s MVP trophy in a decade, however the gold medal and now Presidential Medal of Freedom are certainly the most special distinctions of his storied career. He will join an illustrious list of athletes to receive the honor that includes Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, Babe Ruth and Tiger Woods.

It’s safe to say America is not going to be forgetting the performance of Hellebuyck anytime soon, and now he will get a second medal to add to the collection.

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.

President Trump jumped into Alabama’s Republican U.S. Senate primary over the weekend with a “complete and total endorsement” of U.S. Rep. Barry Moore.

Trump made that endorsement of Moore (R-Enterprise) over presumptive frontrunner Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and a handful of other candidates, including former U.S. Navy Seal Jared Hudson, cattle farmer Rodney Walker, and former Tuberville staffer Morgan Murphy.

A new statewide poll offers a baseline look at how the battlefield is shaping up as the most powerful endorsement in American politics takes effect across Alabama.

A Remington Research Group survey was conducted January 16-19, 2026, among 775 likely Republican primary voters, with a ±3.5% margin of error. Trump endorsed Moore on the night of Saturday, January 17.

The poll was weighted to match likely 2026 GOP primary turnout demographics.

U.S. Senate 

According to the new poll, Alabama Republicans aren’t fully tuned in yet. Nearly half of voters are still undecided — and Moore has just began running advertising that showcases his endorsement from President Trump.

Given the poll began soliciting responses form GOP voters one day before Trump jumped in, the results offer a baseline for all candidates.

In the time since the Saturday night presidential endorsement, Marshall and Hudson have publicly declared they are still in it to win it.

If the Senate numbers seem entirely in flux, the prizefight race for Alabama Attorney General in 2026 is a totally blank slate, according to the poll.

Attorney General 

Jay Mitchell, former Alabama Supreme Court justice, and Katherine Robertson, AG Marshall’s longtime chief counsel, have duked it out in fundraising since announcing their campaigns.

But with 119 days until the election, it won’t be long until both candidates begin unloading their multi-million-dollar warchests to lock down votes across the state.

Pamela Casey, the Blount County district attorney, remains in the hunt, statistically tied with Robertson, despite a cavernous cash disadvantage among the field.

Primary election day is May 19, 2026.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

President Donald Trump jumped into Alabama’s 2026 open U.S. Senate GOP primary Saturday night in a huge way.

On TRUTH Social, Trump issued his “complete and total endorsement” of U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) in the race for the seat being vacated by U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville as he runs for governor.

Trump made that endorsement over Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, former U.S. Navy Seal Jared Hudson, cattle farmer Rodney Walker, and former Tuberville staffer Morgan Murphy, who are also all in the 2026 GOP field.

“Congressman Barry Moore, an America First patriot who has been with me from the very beginning (he was the first elected official in the country to endorse me!), is running for the United States Senate in Alabama — a place I love and WON BIG in 2016, 2020, and 2024, getting the highest vote in that great State’s history,” Trump said.

“Barry Moore is a good friend, fighter, and WINNER, and has my complete and total endorsement to be the next United States senator from Alabama — BARRY WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!”

Moore, a Freedom Caucus member and former member of the Alabama House representing the Wiregrass, thanked President Trump in a statement immediately following the endorsement.

“I am truly honored and thankful to receive the endorsement of President Donald Trump,” Moore said in a statement to Yellowhammer News.

“President Trump has always put America first, and I’m proud to have stood with him from the very beginning. With his support, I’m ready to get to work on day one. I’ll continue fighting for Alabama values, secure borders, a strong economy, and putting the President’s America First agenda into action. Thank you! 🙏🇺🇲”

The Alabama Republican Party primary will be held on May 19, 2026.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The Roman god Janus was the god of two faces. A mature face looked back with reflection. A youthful face looked forward with anticipation. How fitting the first month of the year is named for him in the sense that we do both things.

I looked back at 2025 in my inaugural sermon this year suggesting we’ll remember January 2025 with the images of two U.S. presidents.

Former president Jimmy Carter died shortly after Christmas in 2024 after celebrating his 100th birthday the previous Oct. 1. His funeral was conducted at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 9 last year. The simple gravesite for him and first lady Rosalynn Carter opened to the public last July in Plains, Georgia.

Jimmy Carter was an humble Baptist deacon and Bible teacher. He taught adults at the Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains about 70 percent of the time in his retirement years before Covid-19. Andrew Greer published an anthology of these lessons last fall in his book, “More Than A President—Sundays With Jimmy Carter.”

Maranatha has a simple church chores sign-up list as many rural churches do. For many years the Carters were on the volunteer list. Mrs. Carter would come on her assigned Saturday and clean the building, and President Carter would take his turn mowing the grass. I’d imagine he’s the only president in history who mowed grass with Secret Service protection!

A few days after Carter’s funeral, a new president was inaugurated on Jan. 20. Grover Cleveland had been the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms as our 22nd and 24th chief executive, but Trump became our 45th and 47th president.

How might one describe President Trump? With respect, I don’t think we’d call him humble, but would choose adjectives like “proud,” “brash” and “unfiltered.”

These two men are from different political parties and vastly different in so many ways, but they share one thing in common: they’re elected officials Christians are exhorted to pray for.

During the early months of the Watergate crisis, televangelist Oral Roberts said, “No Christian has a right to criticize the president until he first prays for the president.”

I think Roberts was correct.

Scripture doesn’t tell us all we’d like to know about political engagement. Jesus didn’t conduct a voter registration drive or sponsor a march on Jerusalem or Rome. It fell to the Apostle Paul to speak three simple principles: we obey civil authority, we pay taxes and we pray for all those in authority over us (Romans 13, 1 Timothy 2).

Modern church leaders do well to offer public prayers for our president and other leaders with frequency, reminding us all to do the same in daily devotion.

“Reflections” is a weekly faith column written by Michael J. Brooks, pastor of the Siluria Baptist Church, Alabaster, Alabama. The church’s website is siluriabaptist.com.

On Sunday, U.S. Senator Katie Britt praised President Donald Trump following the arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife on federal drug charges.

Speaking on “Sunday Morning Futures” on Fox News, Britt (R-Montgomery) called the operation a decisive demonstration of American strength and resolve.

“When this president talks, when he tells people what he’s going to do, he means it,” Britt said. “There is no doubt that Venezuelans have a greater opportunity for prosperity because of President Trump’s actions. There is no doubt that Americans are safer and more secure because of President Trump’s actions.”

Britt’s comments came one day after Trump announced that U.S. forces had captured Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores de Maduro, during a joint U.S. military and law enforcement operation carried out overnight in Caracas.

Britt said that Democratic leaders had previously acknowledged the illegitimacy of Maduro’s regime but failed to act.

“When you’re thinking about the contrast from the previous administration, it couldn’t be greater,” she said. “Here you have President Biden, who was all talk and yet no action.”

“You actually wanted this to happen back when you were in charge,” Britt chided Democrats. “But you didn’t have the moxie to get it done.”

Trump said the captured Venezuelan leaders will face U.S. criminal proceedings stemming from a 2020 federal indictment alleging narco-terrorism and drug trafficking.

“I could not be more grateful for our men and women in uniform, our courageous military and our law enforcement officers who perfectly executed the mission,” Britt said. Calling the arrest a defining moment, Britt described it as “a flawless execution of the most difficult mission.”

For Britt, the operation also carried personal significance tied to the domestic impact of drug trafficking. “I’ve sat in front of too many parents who lost their children either to a fentanyl poisoning or a drug overdose,” she said. “Gone are the days of talk,” Britt added. “And now we’re putting American safety and security first and foremost.”

Addressing concerns about due process, Britt said the arrest does not undermine the rule of law. “Justice will be served. I believe in that,” she said. “And as for him having his day in court, he’s going to have it.”

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

The Trump White House’s Rapid Response operation put a national spotlight on something Alabamians learned about in a big way last week: A serious partnership between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

The goal of the ongoing operation is getting illegal operators, especially illegal aliens driving commercial vehicles, and drivers without proper licensing, off Alabama roads.

“82 truck drivers have been detained in Alabama on ICE holds since late October… 12 of those detained did not have a license of any kind,” President Trump’s rapid response channel posted Monday morning.

“Thank you, [Governor Kay Ivey], for helping the Trump Administration make American roads safer!”

https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/1998035603443818985

According to Governor Ivey’s office, ALEA’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit began coordinated enforcement with ICE in late October to expand inspections along Alabama’s major interstate corridors, including high-crash rural interstate areas where heavy truck traffic raises the stakes for everyone on the road.

The early enforcement results reported last week were just the tip of the spear.

State officials said most detentions occurred during two targeted “Strike Force” periods from late October to mid-November.

According to ALEA, ICE personnel are embedded into routine commercial vehicle enforcement when available.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

You have not heard this unusual bit of news in the national media. Likely you will not, unless those media outlets pick up the information from this Yellowhammer News article.

Here is the unusual news bulletin: There have been no hurricanes in the Gulf of America. Ever. And no tropical storms.

The 2025 hurricane season officially ends November 30. No storms are headed for the Gulf at this time, and none are expected.

Of course, the Gulf was just renamed from the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America by President Donald Trump earlier this year. With that renaming, there seems to have developed a hedge of protection for the American Gulf states.

There have been no landfalls in the Gulf states from tropical storms or hurricanes in 2025, since the Gulf was renamed.

As of November 30, the Gulf has undergone an entire hurricane season under its new name — June 1 to November 30.

Not only were there no landfalls, but the center of every named storm this season either stayed out to sea or made landfall somewhere other than the U.S. Gulf states, sparing the Gulf of America coast from a single direct hit.

Maybe President Trump should rename the Atlantic Ocean the “American Ocean.” The new name would make perfectly good sense, as the two continents of North and South America comprise the western extent of the Atlantic Ocean, along with Central America. It’s a different situation on the eastern side, with the Arctic, Europe, Africa and the Antarctic making up the boundary.

Definitely, this is the American Ocean. Christopher Columbus could have named it that, but he preceded Amerigo Vespucci, for whom the continents are named.

President Trump has a technique of boldly detailing positive things about his second administration. What the Never-Trumpers call “bragging,” others call “pointing out what some national media will not articulate” — positive changes under the watch of Trump 47.

I would not be surprised if we see a Truth Social post from the president pointing out that there have been no hurricanes or tropical storms in the Gulf of America. None at all.

And this positive situation will go on for a good while. With the 2025 hurricane season ending, the 2026 season will not start until June 1, 2026. That means there will likely be no hurricanes in the Gulf of America until at least June 2026 — and maybe not then. That’s a long period for Trump supporters to mention the unusual fact of no hurricanes and for Never-Trumpers to pooh-pooh it.

Jim Zig Zeigler is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. His beat includes the positive and colorful about Alabama – her people, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.

On Monday evening, President Donald Trump endorsed the U.S. Senate’s breakthrough to reopen the federal government, calling it a “very good” deal and vowing to “abide by the deal” as the package moves to the House.

The Senate approved the measure 60-40, ending the nation’s longest shutdown after more than 40 days, with eight members of the Senate Democratic caucus crossing over to join a unified GOP conference minus one.

The bill keeps agencies funded into late January and couples the continuing resolution with full-year FY2026 funding for Military Construction-VA, the Legislative Branch, and Agriculture-FDA.

According to news reports and sources close to the negotiations, Alabama U.S. Senator Katie Britt played an instrumental role in recent weeks.

As the primary Republican negotiator in talks with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), as well as top Democrat negotiators at the rank-and-file level on the Democrat side like U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) – who each broke with their party and joined Republicans – Britt was reportedly in constant communication with the White House.

A report from CNBC amplified Britt’s philosophy for breaking the stalemate: “You can’t break a logjam without having a conversation.”

Punchbowl News reported this morning that Senator Kaine personally thanked Senator Britt on the Senate floor after announcing his support for the shutdown-ending deal and his conditions for backing the package.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) called Britt “a rock star” throughout the process of intense, historic negotiations.

On the U.S. House side, the conservative response has been overwhelmingly positive. A House Freedom Caucus bulletin syndicated once details emerged depicted the deal as, “A total win for HFC, conservative leadership, and messaging.”

Britt said on Monday evening that after more than 40 days, “the undue suffering of the American people will soon come to an end.”

“From the beginning, I have always viewed returning to regular order in our appropriations process as the best pathway forward. Ultimately, this package of appropriations bills, in addition to Republicans’ continuing resolution, will reopen the government, fund critical programs like SNAP and WIC, ensure our nation’s outstanding veterans have access to essential services, and pay our federal workers, Capitol police, and air traffic controllers,” Britt (R-Montgomery) said.

“I’m deeply proud to have voted over 15 times to keep the government open and working for Alabamians and the American people. I’m also grateful for my Senate Republican colleagues, and colleagues across the aisle, who worked diligently to bring this shutdown to an end. I am honored to have played a role in the negotiations that led us to this point, and I look forward to continuing to work to put people over politics and make our government function again.”

The U.S. Senate-passed CR ensures full-year military funding, a massive priority for Alabama, while keeping critical operations at agencies funded and ensuring federal workers receive back pay.

The U.S. House is expected to move next, followed by a signature from President Trump, which will bring an end to the longest government shutdown in United States history.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

A packed Neville Arena fell into chants of “U-S-A” on Wednesday night as President Donald Trump called in live during Eric and Lara Trump’s conversation at Turning Point USA’s campus tour visit at Auburn University. 

The spontaneous call came near the close of a program that affirmed the life and legacy of late TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk, who was politically assassinated nearly two months ago, and his message to students about faith, family and defending American values. 

Trump opened immediately with love for Auburn University and the State of Alabama.

“Auburn’s a special place. I’ve been there many times. I know many people from that area, number one, and from that school. It’s a great school. We love Alabama,” President Trump said over speakerphone. 

“But I just want to pay my respects to Charlie and Erika [Kirk]. These are two incredible people. And Erika, I’ve spoken to her often. She’s just a spectacular person, and she’s going to start where Charlie left off. And we should never, we should never allow this to happen. One of the greatest people we’ve ever known and was so responsible for our win. And we love Charlie. He’s looking down on us right now, all of us,” Trump said. 

“As President of the United States, I love you all. Our country is doing great. We’ve never been in a position like this – the investments being made, all of the money coming in – and a lot of it’s responsible that our great Charlie. I’ll tell you what, he was the first in line, always the first in line to help. So I just want to pay my respects to Charlie and everybody, and we love you all. Thank you very much, everybody.”

The Auburn stop of TPUSA’s “This Is the Turning Point Tour” drew thousands of students and fans of Kirk to hear Eric and Lara Trump, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), and conservative host Benny Johnson for an evening to celebrate and spread the values Kirk championed.

An estimated attendance nearing 6,000 filled the arena.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

On Sunday, President Donald Trump endorsed all four Republican incumbent members of Alabama’s U.S. House delegation seeking reelection in 2026.

However, he left one unaddressed: Alabama’s open, competitive 1st Congressional District.

Trump threw his support behind U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) and Dale Strong (R-Huntsville). He praised their work on his “America First” agenda.

The 1st District was the lone exception made by President Trump as the race heats up in Alabama.

The south Alabama seat is open in 2026 as Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) seeks the open U.S. Senate seat, setting off a scramble among Republicans along the Gulf Coast. Former U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl has launched a comeback bid and State Rep. Rhett Marques (R-Enterprise) has entered the race with a strong early fundraising haul and a swath of heavyweight endorsements.

Below are President Trump’s endorsements of each incumbent official:

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks)

Congressman Mike Rogers is doing a truly fantastic job representing the Great People of Alabama’s 3rd Congressional District! As the first Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee from Alabama, Mike is working tirelessly to advance our AMERICA FIRST Agenda. He knows the Wisdom and Courage required to Defend our Country, Support our incredible Military/Veterans, and Ensure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH. In Congress, Mike is working tirelessly to Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Champion American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment. Mike Rogers has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election – HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville)

Congressman Robert Aderholt is a Tremendous Champion for Alabama’s 4th Congressional District! As a Member of the POWERFUL House Appropriations Committee, Robert knows the America First Policies required to Create GREAT Jobs, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy Dominance, Champion our Amazing Farmers and Ranchers, and Advance our Nation’s Golden Age. He is also fighting tirelessly to Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Strengthen our incredible Military/Veterans, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment. Robert Aderholt has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover)

Congressman Gary Palmer is doing a fantastic job representing the incredible people of Alabama’s 6th Congressional District! Gary is a Conservative Warrior who has strong support from his Community. In Congress, he is working hard to Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Advance Election Integrity, Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Strengthen our Military/Veterans, and Protect our always under siege Second Amendment. Gary Palmer has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville)

Congressman Dale Strong is a terrific Representative for the incredible people of Alabama’s 5th Congressional District! Dale has a Strong Record of SUCCESS, and compelling support from his Community. In Congress, he is fighting tirelessly to Champion our Amazing Farmers and Ranchers, Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Advocate for our Great Military/Veterans, and Protect our always under siege Second Amendment. Dale Strong has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

President Trump also did not make endorsements in Alabama’s 2nd and 7th Congressional Districts, occupied by Democrat U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) and Shomari Figures (D-Mobile).

The 2026 Alabama Republican Party primary elections will be held May 19 — now less than 200 days away.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Resilient.

That’s the word I’d use to describe U.S. stock markets nine months into the second Trump administration.

Trump critics warned of market doom under his agenda. So far, they’ve been wrong.

Last week, the markets hit all-time highs. On Friday, the markets closed higher than ever:

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1%, or over 450 points. The S&P 500  gained 0.8%, while the Nasdaq Composite jumped 1.2%, up 263.07.

Those were all all-time highs.

The Dow closed over 47,000 for the first time. Will we see a 50,000 Dow by the end of 2026? Or by the mid-term elections of November 2026?

Whenever something positive is achieved, Trump critics tend to say, “It won’t last. That is just a one-day thing.”

Well, guess what? Monday saw all-time highs for a second day in a row.

All three major U.S. averages finished the day Monday at record-high levels.

It is unusual for all markets to hit record highs on the same day. To do so two days in a row “trumps” most recent records.

The remarkable thing to me about the Trump markets is not just the all-time highs, it is that this stellar performance is occurring during a time of mixed news – the good, the bad, and the ugly. It would be easy to expect highs when everything is coming up roses, but it takes a solidly resilient market to hit the highs despite mixed news.

Last week’s mixed news:

The negative – the Consumer Price Index rose an annualized 3%, the highest level since May. The positive – that rise was slightly less than predicted (3.1%). Up go the markets. The CPI data had been a week late because of the Schumer shutdown of the federal government.

The negative — the month-to-month price index rose 0.3%. The positive is that it was a slight cooling and below expectations.

Could it be that so-called experts who tend to be negative toward Trump have slightly negative market expectations, and then pro-Trump small businesses, stockholders and consumers prove them wrong?

One specific example of the wrongness of the Trump critics is the oft-heard complaint that Trump’s use of tariffs would spark inflation. The CPI figures indicate no particular inflation from tariffs, or from anything else.

The Trump agenda has trumped inflation.

The market performance appears to point toward a rate cut by the Federal Reserve next week and then, maybe just maybe, another cut in December. If those cuts take place, it could further push the markets upward.

The markets all shrugged off news and uncertainty on the political front. Trump announced the cessation of trade talks with Canada. Apparently, the markets thought maybe the talks needed to be cut off.

The markets ignored continued attacks on narcoterrorist ships and hints of U.S. attacks on drug operations on shore. Maybe those things need to be done. Maybe they will help the U.S. and its markets.

The markets seemed to take no umbrage of a trip by Trump to Asia for meeting with China’s Xi Jinping and other Asian leaders.

The markets have not (yet) been shaken by the continued federal government shutdown and the appearance of little or no effort by Democrat leaders to pass a clean CR and stop the shutdown.

Talk about mixed news, and the resilient markets continue to push upward.

Jim Zig Zeigler is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. His beat includes the positive and colorful about Alabama – her people, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com

7. Democrats are being urged to drop progressive rhetoric favored by white liberal Karen women, with some suggesting a shift to appeal to a broader base ahead of future elections.

6. Read Freely Alabama compared the Alabama Policy Institute, Moms for Liberty, Eagle Forum, and a majority of Alabamians to the KKK, Bull Connor, and Jim Crow, a tried and true tactic that will surely work to win.

5. A chip shortage could be impacting Alabama auto plants, with production cuts beginning this week, which could send people home from work and “temporary reductions or production suspensions.”

4. A fired Alabama professor who thought it would be a good idea to cheer on Charlie Kirk’s assassination sued both Alabama and Auburn universities, claiming the termination violated his free speech rights under the First Amendment.

3. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) called Montgomery a war zone, calling for federal intervention to address escalating crime and public safety concerns, adding, “I’ve talked to FBI Director Kash Patel, and he’s gearing up to send a surge of FBI agents to Montgomery to help law enforcement with crime.”

2. With SNAP benefits for 750,000 Alabamians running out soon, U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) and the GOP are racing to secure funding, blaming Democrats for indifference, while Gov. Kay Ivey urged Democrats to support the effort and end the government shutdown.

1. The American Federation of Government Employees, the largest union representing federal workers, is urging Democrats to pass a clean continuing resolution to restore pay and services, as the impasse continues to impact hundreds of thousands of employees, a huge blow to Democrats as they begin to waffle.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. President Donald Trump ended speculation about running as a vice-presidential candidate in 2028, leaving the door open with a noncommittal response that has fueled political speculation. Vance/Rubio

6. ALGOP Chairman John Wahl highlighted a positive conversation with the Alabama Education Association, claiming assurance that the teachers’ union will not push for regulations on homeschool families.

5. Governor Kathy Hochul’s speech at a rally for Zohran Mamdani’s campaign in New York City was “interrupted” with a “tax the rich” chant, a mantra Democrats in the city and elsewhere are fully in support of, despite rational fears by rational Democrats about how that plays with regular Americans.

4. The International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers union filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the removal of NASA employees’ collective bargaining rights, alleging unfair labor practices that could set a precedent for federal workers, AND foolishly arguing their mission is “not national security,” but rather scientific exploration for the “benefit of all humanity.”

3. The U.S. and China are heading towards trade talks to ease tensions, but the “framework” for a deal on tariffs appears to be agreed to, with both sides signaling a cautious willingness to cooperate.

2. The USDA announced no federal SNAP benefits for the 1-in-8 Americans who receive those benefits because of the government shutdown, while Democrats continue focusing on the Obamacare subsidies as the government shutdown enters its fourth week.

1. U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) says the 27-day government shutdown is a Democratic strategy to earn political points with their far-left base, while U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) stated the GOP is ready to negotiate healthcare reforms after the government reopens, showing a strong bargaining position

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Is the government shutdown about to wrap up?

Can Republicans take back the Alabama State House District 10 seat in 2026?

Can AJ McCarron duplicate the success of Governor-elect National Championship-winning coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn)?

All this and more on Alabama Politics This Week, on TV, radio, and online all over Alabama…

Mecca Musick is the CEO of 256 Today. Sign up for the 256 Today newsletter here.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. As the media and their Democrats rage about a privately funded East Wing renovation, the Trump administration is pushing with a remark about how U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is a scumbag.

6. U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) suggested that the “No Kings” protests hide a socialists/Marxists/left wing political wish list, framing them as a radical agenda masked by anti-Trump sentiment. Meanwhile, more protests are planned.

5. U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) released a memo revealing what he claims is the Biden Department of Justice’s leadership meddling in investigations targeting President Donald Trump and his campaign, raising concerns about government overreach and spurring demands for accountability.

4. An Alabama lawmaker argued that expanding the law banning schools from teaching divisive concepts to cover all grades could reverse a drop in school enrollment, citing parental concerns over classroom content and the perception that educators are working against parents’ wishes.

3. Former Alabama quarterback AJ McCarron announced his run for lieutenant governor in 2026, referencing the assassination of Charlie Kirk and pledging to be a quarterback for Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Tommy Tuberville’s (R-Auburn) conservative outsider agenda; one of his opponents, Secretary of State Wes Allen, countered with his own solid record in the race.

2. aldotcom has its second day of reports about how the government shutdown is killing Huntsville, this time citing a drop in dining out, as the 24-day government shutdown’s economic pinch may be hitting local businesses.

1. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) called out the media for bias that creates polls showing Americans blame the GOP for the government shutdown, attributing them to what she calls the “third arm of the Democrats” influencing the narrative and hiding the reality of the situation to help Democrats’ message.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. President Donald Trump nominated Thomas Govan as U.S. Attorney for Alabama’s Middle District and Rightside Radio host Phil Williams for the Northern District.

6. The Southeastern Conference permanently suspended referee Ken Williamson following a review of controversial officiating during the Auburn-Georgia game, prompting calls for improved oversight.

5. CBS’s Stephen Colbert covered the arrest of a Fairhope protester in an indecent penis costume on “The Late Show,” turning the “No Kings” protest embarrassment into an unfunny national late-night comedy bit.

4. The Trump administration has imposed new sanctions on Russian oil exports. targeting the country’s energy sector to pressure Moscow to end the Russia-Ukraine war; the move increased the average cost of oil 5%.

3. A grassroots effort supporting the Alabama Public Library Service’s amendment garnered a majority of public letters to remove inappropriate books from the children’s sections of libraries.

2. Democrats are rolling out their own ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) tracker app; Attorney General Pam Bondi is calling out the obvious targeting of agents, which is leading to an increasing amount of violent rhetoric and actual attacks against those federal agents.

1. The Alabama Education Association failed to read the room, citing reports of a record number of children not returning to public schools in order to push for new homeschool reporting requirements; the move sparked debate over parental rights and state oversight, which the public does not want.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. A former Auburn landscaper fired after posting “one fascist down” following Charlie Kirk’s murder sued the university, claiming the dismissal violated his free speech rights under the First Amendment, but that argument seems apt to fail.

6. A heated debate erupted at an Alabama Public Library Service hearing over transgender books in children’s sections, with some arguing it protects kids and others calling it politically motivated, which is true because the efforts to get these books out of the children’s sections has overwhelming public support.

5. The meeting between President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin to address the Russia-Ukraine war was put on hold due to a lack of potential success as Russia continues to attack Ukraine aggressively.

4. The arrest of a “No Kings” protester in a penis costume in Fairhope is getting national attention. City Council President Jack Burrell seemingly supports the actions of law enforcement, saying, “she resisted arrest and was wearing an outfit that is not appropriate in public.”

3. Tuscaloosa County Commissioner Reginald Murray was handcuffed by police after a struggle while trying to enter a school award event after officials closed the entrances to event. Murray told the officer he would be calling the police chief about this, but that did not sway the officer, even though Murray was not arrested.

2. Attorney General Steve Marshall voiced his deep concern over the bond release of a suspected Montgomery mass shooting suspect, calling for an expansion of Aniah’s Law to prevent such incidents.

1. Walmart announced a pause on its H-1B visa program, citing economic uncertainties and a desire to focus on hiring American workers; but the move is actually driven by President Donald Trump’s $100,000 fee on these workers, a move that could impact thousands of foreign tech employees.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. Gov. Kay Ivey is promoting another Alabama family that is benefitting from school choice through the CHOOSE Act, which has helped provide access to a private Christian education aligned with their values and an alternative to public schools they felt lacked moral grounding; showing yet another success story for Alabama parents.

6. CAIR-Alabama, the state chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, criticized Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), for his proposed ban on Sharia law as unconstitutional, arguing it infringes on religious freedom; Tuberville fired back, defending the measure as a safeguard against extremism.

5. Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl urged Democrats to join President Donald Trump’s fight against crime, arguing that genuine concern for safety should transcend party lines amid rising violent crime rates.

4. A new outlier poll revealed an unlikely and surprising frontrunner in Alabama’s U.S. Senate race, with former Navy SEAL and small business owner Jared Hudson leading over Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise).

3. Two IDF soldiers were killed in a severe ceasefire violation near Gaza, raising concerns of renewed conflict; Israel responded with its own attacks, but says it wants to push forward with President Donald Trump’s plan.

2. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) accused Democrats of playing politics by pandering to the far left, suggesting their fear of losing support from radical groups is driving the ongoing government shutdown strategy.

1. Thousands joined “No Kings” protests against the Trump administration in Huntsville, Birmingham, and beyond in Alabama with demonstrators speaking against capitalism and bigotry; but the crowds were overwhelmingly white, old, and lame, even in places with high numbers of minorities.

Listen: 

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

A month ago, I was reading about President Trump’s continuing efforts to broker deals in the Ukraine-Russian war, the Hamas hostage situation, and numerous tariff negotiations. It occurred to me that Trump is doing the kinds of things he had been doing for 40-plus years, but in a different arena.

Trump started a ‘yuuugely’ successful real estate and business development career by putting together deals – often difficult deals that seemed improbable. Unlikely deals. He had a knack for turning the improbable into reality.

Now, he is still putting together deals — but on a national and international stage.

Under Trump’s recent predecessors – Biden, Obama, Bush 43, Clinton, and Bush 41 – we did not think of them as dealmakers, and we did not think of foreign policy and tariffs as arenas for deals. Maybe that is because Trump’s predecessors did not approach foreign policy and tariffs as ripe for deal-making. And maybe they were not good at deal-making.

Can you imagine Trump’s recent predecessors in the White House attempting the deals that Trump has gone after and continues to go after?

Things have changed. We are on Trump Time. Almost daily, we learn of developments in negotiations involving the United States. Negotiations over vital issues that affect world peace, the safety of the people of the world, the security of the United States, and commerce and prices of goods.

Donald Trump has turned the world scene into the art of the deal, which happens to be the title of his early book (1987).

I first read the book in the 1990s. I was impressed with Trump’s knack for putting together deals to create the improbable. At that time, I had no thought that Trump might enter politics and could apply his obvious talents at deal-making to national and international problems. How did I miss that?  Looking back, it appears to be a no-brainer. Of course, Trump’s deal-making approach could help get him nominated and elected. And once in office, his deal-making could revolutionize the Middle Eastern conflicts, the Russian-Ukrainian war, tariff imbalances and other international relations.

As President, Trump could still be a dynamic broker, but instead of a broker in real estate and finance, he could be a broker for peace. A broker for lower drug prices that would put U.S. consumers on par with other countries. A broker for the security of the United States. A broker for lower interest rates and lower inflation.

If the problem can be brokered, Trump can make a deal.

He has begun all of that and is continuing to deal, deal, deal. He has 3 and 1/3 more years to practice the art of the deal in the Oval office. And he has JD Vance and Marco Rubio at this elbow watching and learning.

The deal-making does not need to stop when Trump completes his term in office.  We do not need to return to a time when lesser nations took advantage of the United States.

When Trump is no longer President, Trumpism needs to continue. Trump-style deal-making.

Re-reading Art of the Deal was a reawakening for me. I trust it would be for you too.

The book is available in print, e-book and audio book. If you do not have time to  read it (or read it again), you can get the audio book and listen to it as you drive around. That’s making good use of your time – something that President Trump is also good at.

“I like thinking big. I always have. To me it’s very simple: If you’re going to be thinking anyway, you might as well think big.”—Donald J. Trump

Jim Zig Zeigler is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. His beat includes the positive and colorful about Alabama – her people, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com

7. President Donald Trump announced a plan to make in vitro fertilization (IVF) more affordable, crediting Alabama’s U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) for inspiring the initiative, which includes tax credits and insurance reforms to support families seeking the most pro-life procedure imaginable.

6. A former professor at both Alabama and Auburn is suing her former employers for firing her because she was being awful about Charlie Kirk’s murder on social media. But she actually implied a threat, reportedly saying, “I will not mourn the wicked,” and following with, “we are getting closer and closer to the real assignment.”

5. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed surprisingly vetoed a city council resolution to help fund Jackson Hospital, but said he remains committed to supporting the facility’s operations and exploring alternative funding options.

4. The U.S. Court of Appeals halted Jefferson County’s race-based redistricting plan, reinstating the current map pending further review while the Supreme Court is mulling over race-based redistricting in a case where the Alabama GOP filed a brief in a related case, arguing for the end of race-based districts.

3. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) declared that an FBI surge is coming to Montgomery to address rising crime, and the increased federal resources and coordination with local law enforcement will be used to tackle violent offenses and put a stop to the lawlessness.

2. Alabama State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris explained that the government shutdown is actually shutting down the government and will eventually shut down food assistance for 112,000 women and babies in Alabama; but the pain is the point as politicians jockey for leverage in Washington, D.C.

1. Former National Security Advisor John Bolton is finding out now that he has been indicted for the improper handling of classified documents, with charges alleging he stored sensitive materials at his home and failed to comply with federal retention policies – oddly similar to charges Bolton cheered on against President Donald Trump.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. There was a good portion of Charlie Kirk news on the founder of Turning Point USA’s birthday as President Donald Trump posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a memorial mural honoring the late conservative activist went up in Hanceville, and the State Department announced visa revocations for foreigners celebrating Kirk’s assassination.

6. A leaked private chat among Young Republicans revealed a treasure trove of racist, anti-semitic, and generally stupid comments that the media will insist represent the private feelings of every conservative-leaning in the country. Meanwhile network silence from ABC, CBS, and NBC on Virginia Democratic AG candidate Jay Jones’ violent text scandal has drawn criticism for media bias.

5. U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) endorsed U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat, praising his conservative record and leadership on issues like border security and election integrity.

4. Alabama leaders celebrated the completion of a six-year, $350 million project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to enlarge the Mobile Ship Channel, making it deeper and wider, and making the Port of Mobile the deepest container port on the Gulf of Mexico, which will have statewide economic benefits.

3. The Israel-Hamas ceasefire, brokered by President Donald Trump, entered its fifth day with all 20 living hostages released and four hostages’ remains returned; but issues with the return of the remains of hostages, Israel dialing back more aid, and Hamas killing Palestinians remain.

2. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors have separately declared emergencies over anticipated ICE raids under President Trump’s mass deportation policy, with Johnson ordering city departments to limit cooperation with federal agents and LA County approving $2.5 million for legal aid and shelter to illegal immigrants.

1. Republicans are blaming the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 14th day, on the nationwide “No Kings” protests scheduled for Saturday, with events in 12 Alabama cities, including Huntsville, Montgomery, Birmingham, and Mobile, organized by groups like Indivisible to oppose President Donald Trump’s policies.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. Madison County Chief Deputy District Attorney Tim Gann defended the decision not to file charges in the August Borden Deshler High School injury case. The decision was based on provable evidence from witnesses, coaches, staff, and texts showing an accidental bear hug and fall with no criminal intent, dismissing online theories of assault and cover-up as unprovable speculation.

6. Auburn’s College of Architecture, Design, and Construction has declared that it can ignore Alabama’s Divisive Concepts law and continue to teach DEI topics like social equity and racial justice, citing NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board) standards; now lawmakers are considering closing the loophole.

5. Priceville Police Officer Garry Chapman, son of reality TV star “Dog the Bounty Hunter,” was reinstated by the city council after being fired following his high-speed chase that ended in Hartselle with a crash killing 17-year-old Tristan Hollis; he will be suspended for 10 days instead.

4. Former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden and former Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed partial credit for the groundwork of President Donald Trump’s Israel-Hamas Gaza ceasefire deal, after Trump’s 20-point plan created an environment for peace in the region while the Biden administration allowed Iran to create chaos in the region.

3. Another arrest has been made in the Montgomery mass shooting that killed 2 while injuring 12 others. Dantavious McGhee, 19, was charged with capital murder, nine counts of first-degree assault, and three counts of second-degree assault; authorities anticipate further arrests.

2. Republicans are using the government shutdown, entering its third week, to announce layoffs, block spending bills, and keep the House in recess to extract concessions on Obamacare subsidies. Meanwhile heated Capitol confrontations continue, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries telling Rep. Mike Lawler to “keep your mouth shut” over subsidy disputes and Speaker Mike Johnson clashing with Sens. Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego on swearing in Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva.

1. The President Donald Trump-brokered Middle East peace deal culminated in the release of all 20 living hostages held by Hamas after over two years in Gaza. Alabama’s congressional Republicans are thrilled with U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) calling it a global victory, U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks) seeing it as years of prayers answered, U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) calling this a dawn of a golden age in the region, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) saying the impossible was made possible by a true peacemaker, and U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) calling Trump the President of Peace.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. President Donald Trump downplayed concerns over a potential trade war escalation, escalated by his statements about 100% tariffs on China after that country put restrictions on exporting rare earth minerals; he assured that “it will all be fine.”

6. Alabama’s population increased by 49,231 to 5.16 million in 2024, with significant growth in Madison and Baldwin counties, primarily due to 26,000 out-of-state domestic individuals and 16,000 international migrants; and despite more deaths than births.

5. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) criticized Senate Democrats under Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) for potentially extending the government shutdown into its third week to coincide with these nationwide “No Kings” protests; events are planned in Alabama cities Florence, Fairhope, Guntersville, Huntsville, Auburn, and elsewhere.

4. President Donald Trump ordered Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to figure out a way to pay military service members; Hegseth announced that they will redirect research and development funds to guarantee military paychecks Wednesday amid the ongoing government shutdown, failed Senate votes, the laying off of federal workers, and worries over disrupted services.

3. Alabama law enforcement agencies have expanded participation in the 287(g) program to act as “mini-immigration officers,” according to aldotcom. Police are assisting ICE in detaining undocumented immigrants, resulting in doubled immigration detentions statewide.

2. A male juvenile was charged with capital murder, nine counts of first-degree assault, and three counts of second-degree assault in the Montgomery mass shooting that killed 2 and injured 12 others; authorities are expecting more arrests.

1. President Donald Trump addressed the Knesset this morning to celebrate the U.S.-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire, where 20 hostage survivors were released after more than two years in Gaza and reunited with families in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees, including convicted terrorists. Trump called it a “new beginning” and “historic dawn of a new Middle East.”

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.