Good morning and Happy Saturday!

Welcome to 2025 and our slightly reimagined newsletter. As I’m sure many of you saw, we did not hit our subscriber goal last year. And even though I said we would pause this newsletter if we didn’t reach 1000 premium members, it’s just too near and dear to my heart to stop it completely.

So with that said, we’re going to alter the cadence and format of The Flag. From now on, this newsletter will be delivered every Saturday. It’ll feature the top five stories from the prior week, why they matter, and what both sides are saying about them.

Our premium subscribers will still receive our Sunday newsletter, so if you haven’t subscribed yet — and you want more Red, White, and Blue in your inbox — be sure to hit the button below.

I want to personally thank all the subscribers who stepped forward at the end of last year. You’re making it possible to continue this project into 2025; I am forever grateful for that.

1. Trump Sentenced to 'Unconditional Discharge'

• Here's what happened: On Friday Morning, President-Elect Donald Trump was sentenced to an "unconditional discharge" after being convicted in a hush money case involving payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. The sentencing, issued by Judge Juan Merchan, comes after months of legal proceedings and public scrutiny. Trump, while convicted, will not face jail time or probation, with the court's decision hinging on the unusual nature of the sentencing. (Adam Reis et al., NBC News).

• Here's why it matters: This sentencing highlights the complexities of holding public figures accountable while balancing legal precedents and public opinion. An unconditional discharge is rare and may influence perceptions of legal equity in high-profile cases. Critics and supporters of Trump alike are debating whether the ruling sets a dangerous precedent or appropriately considers the circumstances. (Ben Johansen, Politico)

• Here's what right-leaning sources are saying about this: Conservative commentators have criticized the case as part of a broader effort to undermine Trump politically. They argue that the "unconditional discharge" highlights the lack of substantive evidence for a more severe sentence and view the conviction as symbolic rather than legally consequential. (Tom Howell Jr., The Washington Times)

• Here's what left-leaning sources are saying about this: Progressive voices see the sentencing as a missed opportunity to hold Trump accountable more robustly. They argue that the "unconditional discharge" reflects leniency for powerful figures and lament the lack of more significant consequences despite the historic nature of the case. (Lisa Rubin, MSNBC)

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2. Florida Grand Jury Vaccine Report

• Here's what happened: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis initiated a grand jury investigation in 2022 to scrutinize companies behind the development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. The report, released this week, found no evidence to support criminal charges but highlighted concerns over transparency and alleged indiscriminate promotion of vaccines, including to populations where risks may have outweighed benefits. The findings have drawn mixed reactions, reflecting ongoing debates about vaccine policies. (Florida Supreme Court Report)

• Here's why it matters: This report underscores the ongoing scrutiny of vaccine manufacturers and public health organizations in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. While no criminal activity was identified, the grand jury's critiques could influence public trust in vaccines, corporate accountability, and future public health decisions, especially as vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge. (Tallahassee Democrat)

• Here's what right-leaning sources are saying about this: Conservative outlets have emphasized the report's criticisms of "Big Pharma" and vaccine mandates, framing them as evidence of a profit-driven agenda that overlooked potential harms. They argue this vindicates skepticism about vaccine policies and highlights the need for greater corporate transparency and accountability. (Shawn Fleetwood, The Federalist)

• Here's what left-leaning sources are saying about this: Progressive voices are stressing the lack of criminal findings in the report, noting that it validates the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. They argue that the report could be used to stoke unwarranted fears and fuel political agendas, warning against undermining public health efforts. (Kate Payne, Associated Press)

3. Wildfires Erupt in Los Angeles

• Here's what happened: On Tuesday, three wildfires ignited in Los Angeles County, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency as the fires rapidly spread, fueled by dry conditions and strong Santa Ana winds. The crisis has sparked discussions among politicians and media about the underlying causes and response efforts. (California Governor’s Office)

• Here's why it matters: These wildfires underscore the ongoing challenges California faces with extreme weather and fire management, likely exacerbated by climate change. The response to this disaster highlights the importance of preparedness and the political implications of leadership during crises, as debates over climate policies and infrastructure escalate. (Lauren Irwin, The Hill)

• Here's what right-leaning sources are saying about this: Conservative outlets have criticized Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for her perceived lack of visibility during the crisis and questioned California's overall preparedness. They argue that Democratic leaders are failing to address the state's recurring wildfire issues effectively, citing infrastructure and policy failures. (Alex Oliviera, New York Post)

• Here's what left-leaning sources are saying about this: Progressive voices have pointed to climate change as a major factor exacerbating wildfires and praised California's proactive measures, including Governor Newsom’s quick emergency declaration. They argue for more aggressive federal and state climate policies to prevent future disasters. (Seth Bohrenstein, Associated Press)

4. Jimmy Carter's Funeral

• Here's what happened: On Thursday, former President Jimmy Carter was honored with a state funeral at Washington National Cathedral, attended by current and former presidents, dignitaries, and international leaders. The ceremony celebrated Carter's legacy of humanitarianism, peace, and public service. Tributes highlighted his post-presidency work, including his efforts with Habitat for Humanity and global health initiatives. (Stephen Farrell et al., Reuters)

• Here's why it matters: Carter's funeral served as a rare moment of bipartisan unity, reflecting his enduring legacy as a symbol of integrity and compassion in American politics. The event offered an opportunity for leaders and citizens to reflect on the values of humility, service, and decency that defined his life and presidency. (Stephen Collinson, CNN)

• Here's what right-leaning sources are saying about this: Conservative voices praised Carter's character and commitment to faith, with some emphasizing his work in fostering global peace. They noted the respectful bipartisan tributes as a testament to his ability to rise above political divides, though some highlighted the challenges of his presidency. (Emma Colton, et al., Fox News)

• Here's what left-leaning sources are saying about this: Progressive commentators lauded Carter as a moral and ethical leader, contrasting his legacy with modern political divisions. They emphasized his post-presidential humanitarian work as a model of how former leaders can continue to serve the public good. (Editorial, The Guardian)

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5. Meta Ends Fact-Checking

• Here's what happened: Meta announced it will end its fact-checking program, replacing it with a "community notes" system modeled after X (formerly Twitter). CEO Mark Zuckerberg cited growing distrust in the fact-checking process as a key reason for the change, describing the move as part of a broader shift in moderation policies influenced by the cultural and political tensions surrounding the upcoming election. (Bruna Horvath, NBC News)

• Here's why it matters: The decision signals a significant shift in how tech platforms approach content moderation, raising questions about the role of social media in combating misinformation. It also reflects broader debates about balancing free expression with the need for factual accuracy in politically charged environments. (The Economist)

• Here's what right-leaning sources are saying about this: Conservatives have welcomed the change, framing it as an overdue correction to a flawed fact-checking system they believe disproportionately targeted right-leaning content. They argue that the move restores trust and fairness to Meta's platform. (C. Douglas Golden, The Western Journal)

• Here's what left-leaning sources are saying about this: Progressives have criticized the decision, warning it could lead to increased misinformation. They argue that the "community notes" system lacks the rigor of professional fact-checking. They also question the timing of the change and suggest it may align with political strategies to benefit conservative narratives, including those of Donald Trump. (Max Zahn, ABC News)

Sunday Sneak Peak

🦜 Salty words and solemn ceremonies collided in 1845, but was Jackson’s parrot truly to blame? Hear the squawk and subscribe to The Flag for more jaw-dropping moments in history.