Desi Weekly News Digest
Your weekly roundup of major news stories affecting our community
February 16-22, 2025
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📰 Politics & Law
Justice Department Database on Law Enforcement Misconduct Deleted
A federal database tracking law enforcement misconduct has been deleted as part of Trump’s Department of Justice restructuring. Civil rights groups warn that this move weakens accountability and oversight, raising concerns about policing practices nationwide.🔗 https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-justice-department-cuts-database-tracking-federal-police-misconduct-2025-02-21/
Democratic Attorneys General Push Back Against Trump Policies
In response to sweeping policy changes under the Trump administration, Democratic attorneys general across the country are launching legal challenges to protect voting rights, environmental protections, and civil liberties. Their coordinated lawsuits are seen as one of the strongest checks on executive overreach.🔗 https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2025/02/22/trump-lawsuits-democratic-attorney-generals/
🏛️ Government & Policy Shifts
FDA, CDC, and NIH Layoffs Raise Public Health Concerns
Major layoffs at key federal health agencies, including the FDA, CDC, and NIH, as well as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and USDA are threatening the stability of the public health system.🔗 NPR: Federal Health Agencies Layoffs
🔗 science.org: Mass Firings Decimate Science Agencies🔗 Bird flu experts fired
USPS Takeover Raises Concerns About Mail Service and Election Security
Trump says he is taking over control of the postal board, This would take independence away from USPS and could force the agency to cut many services to areas not considered profitable. This also has implications for election security.🔗 Read more
Elon Musk Cancels $22 Million Voter Turnout Fund in India
Musk’s Doge initiative has abruptly pulled $22 million in funding meant to increase voter participation in India’s upcoming elections.🔗 Read more