Jonathan Turley discusses the media’s coverage of the arrest of a federal judge for allegedly aiding an illegal immigrant in evading ICE capture and ’60 Minutes’ criticizing Paramount for censoring stories amid President Donald Trump’s lawsuit. See less
Trump Joins National Day of Prayer Event at White House
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former President Donald J. Trump marked the National Day of Prayer with a high-profile return to the White House grounds, participating in a powerful faith-filled event alongside clergy, faith leaders, and supporters. The occasion, hosted to honor America’s spiritual foundations, offered a sharp contrast to the secular direction many feel the current administration has taken.
Trump’s appearance reaffirmed his long-standing alignment with religious conservatives and commitment to the nation’s Christian roots. The event emphasized faith, freedom, and national renewal—values consistently championed by the former president throughout his first term and now again as he seeks to return to office.
“Faith is more powerful than government, and nothing is more powerful than God,” Trump said, echoing remarks he made during the National Day of Prayer event held in 2018. As seen in White House archives, Trump used the occasion to reiterate his belief that faith in God remains the cornerstone of American life.
During the ceremony, religious leaders from multiple denominations joined Trump in prayer, invoking Scripture and calling on God’s guidance for the country. The event carried a tone of reverence, unity, and urgency—especially as concerns grow among many Americans about religious liberty, moral decline, and the erosion of traditional values.
Trump spoke from the Rose Garden, surrounded by faith leaders who praised his record on protecting religious freedoms. According to Off the Press, Trump encouraged the country to “pray for the strength and wisdom to do what is right,” adding that America has always turned to God in times of need.
Throughout his presidency, Trump repeatedly affirmed the importance of religion in American life. He signed executive orders to protect religious liberties, defended the rights of religious organizations, and ensured that faith-based initiatives had a place in federal policy. His participation in the prayer event served as a reminder to conservatives that he remains an unwavering advocate for Christian values in government.
The former president’s remarks stood in stark contrast to the current political climate, where expressions of faith are often dismissed or politicized by progressive voices. Many conservatives have expressed frustration that under the Biden administration, traditional observances like the National Day of Prayer have been either downplayed or completely ignored at the federal level.
During the Trump-era prayer event referenced in the White House archives, the former president invoked prayer not just as a religious act, but as a national responsibility. “America is a nation of believers,” he said. “Across our land, we see citizens who live out the words of Scripture: to love God with all their heart, all their soul, and all their mind.”
His continued support for faith-based governance resonates deeply with a large swath of the American population that feels increasingly sidelined in national discourse. By standing publicly with religious leaders, Trump once again positioned himself as a defender of America’s Judeo-Christian foundation.
The event also highlighted key themes central to Trump’s political platform—freedom of speech, the right to worship, and the protection of religious expression. Pastors and religious figures used the opportunity to pray for families, schools, military members, and the future of the nation. Several attendees praised Trump for giving religion a seat at the table during his administration—something many say has been missing in recent years.
For many conservatives, this moment symbolized more than just a ceremony. It was a return to leadership that prioritizes faith over bureaucracy, God over government, and moral clarity over political correctness. The gathering sent a clear message: the fight to preserve religious liberty and the nation’s spiritual heritage is far from over.
While the mainstream media gave little attention to Trump’s participation in the event, alternative media and grassroots supporters saw it as a reaffirmation of the principles that originally fueled Trump’s rise to power. His prayerful tone and message of national renewal contrasted sharply with the tone of divisiveness and secularism that critics say defines the current administration.
Trump concluded his address by stating, “We are blessed to live in a land of faith, where our people can freely live out their beliefs.” His words underscored a consistent theme in his public service—that freedom and faith go hand in hand.
As the 2024 election looms, moments like these will likely resonate with religious voters who feel disillusioned by the lack of moral leadership in Washington. Trump’s alignment with those values may once again prove to be a decisive factor at the ballot box.
The National Day of Prayer, rooted in a 1952 congressional resolution, remains a vital reminder of America’s spiritual legacy. With Trump at its center, the observance took on renewed meaning for those who believe that America is strongest when it acknowledges its dependence on God.
The remark that Warren Buffett made the other day I thought was true. Why is the market in this mood – Mr. Market is kind of a drunken psycho! My opinion why the market is in such a turmoil is because this administration has not set any solid foundation for our country in the last six years. These people have no idea what they are doing. Just take a journey through this administration for six years – have you as a citizen felt confident with the direction the country is headed? I don’t! Our leader preaches every day how wonderfully things are going while the citizens see their resources snatched away. I keep asking others, “Is he talking about the same America we are living in?” I guess our leader is referring to that imaginary person out there.
Warren Buffett’s statement was: ‘Mr. Market is kind of a drunken psycho.”
Investment icon Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, offered a colorful imagery to emphasize the importance of buying low and selling high in an interview last month with Quicken Loans executives.
“This imaginary person out there — Mr. Market — he’s kind of a drunken psycho,” Buffett said, according to Benzinga news service. “Some days he gets very enthused, some days he gets very depressed. And when he gets really enthused, you sell to him; and, if he gets depressed, you buy from him. There’s no moral taint attached to that.”
And how should we small fry approach investing?
“Pay no attention to headlines in the paper or people on television or anything, but put aside a little money each month,” Buffett said. (In other words, put under your mattress.)
“I’d put it in a very low-cost index fund. And if you do that regularly throughout your working career, you’re bound to have a substantial amount of capital.”
Buffett advises a diversified stock portfolio and blocking out the chatter.
“Emotions are contagious, and emotions have no business in investing.”
Meanwhile, Wall Street Journal columnist Jonathan Clements says there are two rules to keep in mind when investing. “Never trade based on a market forecast and design your portfolio so that short-term results don’t matter,” he wrote.
“The implication: if you think you might panic and sell during a market decline, you should sell now, while prices are still at lofty levels. Few investment mistakes are more damaging than dumping stocks at the depth of a bear market.”
Any money you need for spending in the next five years shouldn’t be invested in anything riskier than short-term bonds and certificates of deposit, Clements noted.
Hopefully, this new Congress and Senate will put a padlock on the check book. We also need an audit of the country’s gold as I stated earlier. Contact your representative and put pressure on these people who do not want that audit! Why?
If it is against the law – then it should not be allowed. In all of the years I worked in a major business – it was against the working rules of the company to conduct PERSONAL BUSINESS during working hours and if the government folks are buying stock during work hours then they should be FIRED. And, the fact they receive – every day – information on how/what businesses are planning.
DUH!
NOW – is that right and fair to get a one-up on the taxpayers?
Members of Congress Are Buying These 4 Warren Buffett Stocks. Should You?
Bipartisan support for banning U.S. senators and representatives from buying and selling stocks while they’re in office is picking up momentum. President Trump recently stated that he would “absolutely” sign legislation to that end if it comes to his desk.
If you’re hoping to get great investing ideas from Capitol Hill, you might not have much time left to do so. However, it’s not too late. Members of Congress have been buying four Warren Buffett stocks recently. Should you buy these stocks, too?
Members of Congress Are Buying These 4 Warren Buffett Stocks. Should You?
Bipartisan support for banning U.S. senators and representatives from buying and selling stocks while they’re in office is picking up momentum. President Trump recently stated that he would “absolutely” sign legislation to that end if it comes to his desk.
If you’re hoping to get great investing ideas from Capitol Hill, you might not have much time left to do so. However, it’s not too late. Members of Congress have been buying four Warren Buffett stocks recently. Should you buy these stocks, too?
Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now. Continue »
1. Amazon
Rep. Dwight Evans, a Democrat representing Pennsylvania’s third congressional district, bought shares of Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) in early April. He was joined by a colleague from across the aisle. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican who represents Georgia’s 14th district, also picked up shares of Amazon on two occasions in April.
Federal disclosure regulations don’t require members of Congress to reveal why they bought or sold individual stocks. However, we can probably make a good guess as to why Amazon has received bipartisan votes of approval in recent weeks.
The company remains a juggernaut in two key industries — e-commerce and cloud services. Artificial intelligence, especially generative AI, continues to provide a major tailwind for Amazon Web Services. The stock’s trailing-12-month price-to-earnings ratio is near the lowest levels since the Great Recession of 2007 through 2009.
Amazon could struggle if the economy enters a recession. However, I think the stock is a great pick for long-term investors, even those who don’t have seats in Congress.
2. American Express
Only one congressman has bought American Express (NYSE: AXP) stock over the last 30 days. Rep. Rick Larsen, a Democrat who represents Washington’s second congressional district, scooped up shares of the financial services giant on April 8, 2025.
American Express is one of Buffett’s longest-held positions. It’s also Berkshire Hathaway‘s (NYSE: BRK.A) (NYSE: BRK.B) second-largest holding with the conglomerate’s stake valued at over $40 billion.
The financial stock hasn’t been immune to the overall stock market volatility caused by President Trump’s tariffs. Shares of American Express have fallen roughly 10% year to date. Rep. Larsen bought AmEx stock when it was down even more.
My view is that other investors could like American Express, too. The company’s revenue and earnings continue to grow at a solid pace. Despite the macroeconomic uncertainty. AmEx still expects to deliver strong revenue and earnings growth this year.
3. Apple
Some might have questioned Buffett’s decision to significantly reduce Berkshire’s stake in Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) in late 2023 and throughout much of 2024. But the iPhone maker’s share price is now down 18% or so below its previous high.
Three members of Congress have taken advantage of this sell-off in recent weeks, all of them Republicans. Rep. Jefferson Shreve, who represents Indiana’s sixth district, bought shares of Apple on March 30, 2025. A few days later, on April 2, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene added shares to her portfolio. She also purchased more Apple shares on April 8. In addition, Rep. Rob Bresnahan of Pennsylvania’s eighth district bought Apple stock on April 7.
I have two opinions on Apple. Short-term investors might want to stay away from the stock. The company could be negatively impacted by the Trump administration’s tariffs. However, I think Apple could be an excellent stock to own over the long term (just as it has throughout its history). Don’t undestimate Apple’s iPhone-centric ecosystem and its ability to launch game-changing new products.
4. Berkshire Hathaway
The fourth Buffett stock that’s been scooped up by a member of Congress over the last 30 days is none other than Berkshire Hathaway itself. Note that I used the singular “member” rather than plural “members.” Only Rep. Greene from Georgia bought Berkshire shares.
I can fully understand why she found Berkshire Hathaway appealing. The stock has risen in 2025 while the major market indexes have floundered. Buffett has built a staggering cash stockpile of over $334 billion that he and his investment managers can put to use if stock valuations become even more attractive.
However, Buffett didn’t approve any stock buybacks in the fourth quarter of 2024 for the first time in years. This could indicate that he believes the stock is trading at a premium to its intrinsic value. Even if that’s the case, I think Berkshire Hathaway remains an excellent stock for investors right now.
Don’t buy this ultimate Buffett stock because a congresswoman bought it, though. Instead, buy Berkshire for its exceptional management team (that extends beyond Buffett, by the way) and the tremendous diversification that it offers.
Should you invest $1,000 in Berkshire Hathaway right now?
Before you buy stock in Berkshire Hathaway, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Berkshire Hathaway wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004… if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $610,327!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005… if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $667,581!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 882% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 161% for the S&P 500. Don’t miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor.
US politicians and lawmakers may be disallowed to buy stocks
The PELOSI Act would ban lawmakers and their spouses from holding, purchasing or selling individual stocks for the duration of the lawmaker’s time in office.
Members who refuse to comply with the PELOSI Act must forfeit any stock profits to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and face monetary penalties. (Reuters)
The US lawmakers in the Congress are allowed to own and trade in stocks and other securities, under law. Currently, the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK Act) mandates that Congress members file financial disclosures of their stock trades within 30 days and imposes new penalties for insider trading.
Effectively, the members of Congress can own, buy, and sell individual stock even where that stock will conflict with their official duties.
Unusual Whales, a startup, has found that the stock portfolios of numerous Congress members from both major parties outperformed the S&P 500 in 2024.
Going forward, this practice may stop. U.S. Senator Josh Hawley has reintroduced the Preventing Elected Leaders from Owning Securities and Investments (PELOSI) Act, which would ban members of Congress from trading or holding individual stocks. The move comes after President Trump announced he would sign such a bill into law if it crossed his desk.
“Members of Congress should be fighting for the people they were elected to serve—not day trading at the expense of their constituents,” stated Senator Hawley.
“Americans have seen politician after politician turn a profit using information not available to the general public. It’s time we ban all members of Congress from trading and holding stocks and restore Americans’ trust in our nation’s legislative body.”
The PELOSI Act would ban lawmakers and their spouses from holding, purchasing or selling individual stocks for the duration of the lawmaker’s time in office. Lawmakers would be allowed to invest in diversified mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, or U.S. Treasury bonds while in office.
If passed, current lawmakers would have 180 days to comply with the legislation. Likewise, newly elected members of Congress would be required to comply within 180 days of taking office.
Members who refuse to comply with the PELOSI Act must forfeit any stock profits to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and face monetary penalties imposed by the House and Senate ethics committees.
Congress (with Campaign Legal Center’s support) had passed the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK Act) in 2012. The act requires members of Congress to file financial disclosures of their stock trades within 30 days (previously, they were only required to file annual disclosures) and places new penalties on members who used information for insider trading.
Click to unmute
kommonsentsjane 