Southern Progressives

Moving to the left, one post at a time.

Bill Freeman
April 30, 2026

National News:

Watch key moments from Pete Hegseth's testimony about Pentagon funding, Iran

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and other top officials testified on Wednesday as the Defense Department seeks a $1.5 trillion budget from Congress. Hegseth got into heated exchanges with Democrats on the House Armed Services Committee and claimed those who oppose the war in Iran are enemies. Acting Pentagon comptroller Jules Hurst also revealed that the conflict has cost the U.S. about $25 billion.

www.cbsnews.com/video/watch-key-moments-pete-hegseths-testimony-pentagon-funding-iran

Brent pares gains after hitting 4-year highs as report stokes worries of U.S. military action against Iran

Brent crude surged to its highest levels since early 2022, before paring gains, as the Middle East conflict chokes supplies.

CNBC • Lee Ying Shan,Sam Meredith

The Supreme Court's Decision in Louisiana v. Callais

My Conversation with former Labor Secretary Robert Reich about today's anti-voting rights decision and other topics.

Joyce Vance

State News:

Tennessee's public school funding drops to lowest in the U.S. - Nashville Banner

Tennessee spends the less per public school student than any other state in the U.S., according to an annual report. Spending decreased from 2023-24 to 2024-25.

Nashville Banner • Lillian Avedian

TN GOP discussing eliminating the state’s only Democratic-held U.S. House seat • Tennessee Lookout

Tennessee U.S Sen. Marsha Blackburn, called on state lawmakers to hold a special session to draw new maps after a Supreme Court ruling.

Tennessee Lookout • Adam Friedman

Local News:

Weather - Etowah - 14-Day Forecast & Rain

See the weather like never before – live weather maps powered by the most accurate models.

www.ventusky.com/35.323;-84.525

The Etowah Friendly Garden Club will host its Annual Plant Sale on Saturday morning, May 9 at the Historic L&N Depot in the heart of Etowah from 8 a.m. to 12 Noon. The club’s members will sell trees and flowers that they’ve grown in their yards and flower beds. Proceeds from the plant sale to go to area charities that include the Etowah Christmas For Kids Program, the Etowah Boys and Girls Club, and the Miracle Lake Rehabilitation Center in Etowah.