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, Fairhop

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