This Week: Pope Francis, Politics, New Chapters, and the Price of Truth

April 23, 2025

In today’s newsletter:

• Pope Francis Dies at 88.

• Malcolm Nance on Trump, Russia, and El Salvador.

• Justice for Mahmoud Khalil.

• A New Chapter for Randi Rhodes 

• $5 Friday is Here!

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a transformative voice in the Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. Born in Argentina and elected in 2013, Francis was known for breaking tradition He was the first Pope to openly support the LGBTQ+ community, calling for inclusion and compassion rather than condemnation. A vocal feminist ally, he consistently uplifted the voices of women and advocated for greater roles for them within the Church. Francis was a global advocate for the poor and marginalized, a defender of migrants’ rights, and one of the most outspoken religious leaders on the climate crisis. He was also a consistent voice for peace in global conflicts, calling for ceasefires, humanitarian aid, and dialogue in both Gaza and Ukraine.

National security expert Malcolm Nance joins The Stephanie Miller Show and takes a deep dive into Trump-era corruption, foreign influence, and authoritarian overreach. Nance details how Trump loyalist Jeffrey “Doge” Clark allegedly paved the way for Russian interests to gain influence inside the U.S. Department of Energy—a move with dangerous implications for national security. He also uncovers a chilling plan aimed at sending undocumented immigrants to El Salvador while imprisoning American citizens in their place. And in a stunning act of defiance, Trump has allegedly ignored a unanimous 9-0 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, further proving his disregard for the rule of law and democratic institutions.

On Democracy Now!, we get the latest on the case of Mahmoud Khalil from Diala Shamas, senior staff attorney at the Center for Constitutional Rights. Khalil, a legal permanent U.S. resident, is facing deportation solely for participating in Gaza solidarity protests—despite having no criminal record. A Louisiana immigration judge ruled the Trump administration has grounds to deport him based on his beliefs and associations. Shamas explains how the government is fast-tracking his immigration case while stalling a federal court challenge in New Jersey. Even while detained, Khalil continues to speak out against the U.S.-backed Israeli war on Gaza—an act his legal team sees as the real reason behind this targeted retaliation against protestors.

A New Chapter – Thank You

Dear FSTV Family,

After years of truth-telling, ranting, and raising hell with you, it’s time for me to step away from the mic. I’m retiring, but the 3 PM hour stays strong—Rick Smith is taking the reins starting next Monday, April 28. He’s a true working-class hero, and I know you’ll welcome him with open arms. And be sure to catch my final show this afternoon at 3 PM ET.

Thank you for all the years of passion, purpose, and power.

Stay loud,

Randi Rhodes

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