Democracy Now! Monday, May 18, 2026

The World Health Organization has declared a global health emergency due to a rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, with Dr. Craig Spencer warning that years of U.S. dismantling of global health infrastructure—under the Trump administration—have left the world dangerously unprepared. The outbreak, which has already caused hundreds of deaths and spread to Kampala, is exacerbated by conflict, weakened health systems, and the withdrawal of U.S. support from USAID and the WHO. Meanwhile, President Trump’s administration has intensified its push for Christian nationalism, hosting a taxpayer-funded, eight-hour prayer rally on the National Mall where leaders like Mike Johnson and J.D. Vance promoted a 'Christian nation' narrative, drawing sharp condemnation from Bishop William Barber and journalist Sarah Posner, who called the event idolatry and a violation of the Constitution. In foreign policy, Trump escalated threats against Iran, while Israel’s continued military actions in Gaza and Lebanon have killed hundreds and displaced over a million people. Domestically, Trump is reportedly seeking to drop a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS in exchange for a $1.7 billion fund to compensate January 6th insurrectionists—legislation that Democratic Congressman Jamie Raskin calls an unconstitutional 'political slush fund' and a direct violation of the 14th Amendment.