June 2023

Church attendance has hit an all-time low in the United States amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. A Gallup News survey revealed a significant decrease in attendance from an average of 34% of US adults in 2019 to only 30% in 2023. The pandemic disrupted the habit of attending religious services for many Americans, affecting various groups but most notably, Catholics and Protestants. Both Republicans and Democrats experienced similar declines in church attendance, yet young adults (ages 18-34) demonstrated the lowest participation rates. Only 17% attended in-person, while a mere 1% participated remotely. Older adults showed more interest in remote attendance, but the trend is shifting back towards in-person services, with traditional church services remaining strong.

Former President Trump criticized Governor DeSantis’s immigration policy, calling him a copycat. DeSantis announced his plan addressing the U.S. border crisis, which includes crackdowns on sanctuary cities, completing the border wall, ending catch-and-release policies, and reinstating Trump’s “Remain in Mexico” policy. Trump expressed dissatisfaction, suggesting DeSantis is merely following his strategies. DeSantis also proposed designating cartels as transnational criminal organizations or foreign terrorists and questioned border engagement rules. Their disagreement highlights differing opinions on effective border policies.

Disney’s Star Wars franchise faces controversy as it casts transgender actor Abigail Thorn in The Acolyte. This decision has sparked debates about the influence of progressive activism in the beloved galaxy far, far away. Thorn’s casting represents Disney’s ongoing push for diversity and inclusivity across its franchises, with critics arguing that the company prioritizes tokenism over genuine talent and storytelling. Disney’s quest for progressiveness has disillusioned some fans, making Star Wars a battleground for ideological conflicts. Producer Kathleen Kennedy’s leadership at Lucasfilm steered the franchise onto a more progressive path, further disregarding the desires of longtime fans. As Disney focuses on divisive political agendas, the magic of the galaxy far, far away may continue to fade. And that’s all I’ve got.

Supporters gathered as Donald Trump spoke at the Lincoln Day Dinner, promising to prevent World War III and addressing key political issues. He criticized the legal prosecution against him, accusing the deep state of fear and manipulation. Trump also condemned the mainstream media, particularly CNN, for spreading fake news. He blamed Joe Biden’s foreign policy for America’s deterioration and promised swift action on Russia-Ukraine issues. Highlighting concerns such as illegal immigration, the need for justice system reform, and gender identity in sports, Trump called the nation “failing” and urged supporters to demolish the deep state and defeat the leftist agenda. He claims to be the only leader capable of saving America.

Eastern Montana’s skies have been breached again by suspected spy balloons, prompting outrage due to the federal government’s lack of transparency. Pentagon has refused to investigate, despite concerns from Rep. Matt Rosendale about national security threats. This follows a similar incident in February involving a Chinese spy balloon. Senator Jon Tester believes these balloons’ flight paths over states with intercontinental ballistic missiles are not coincidental. The incidents reveal China’s multifaceted effort to destabilize and dethrone the US as the world’s leading economic power. Rosendale has initiated communication with the Commanding Officer at Malmstrom Air Force Base and requested a briefing from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. Montanans demand action to protect the nation’s security and sovereignty.