From the Left · Read · October 20, 2026
Oct 16 · Trump waives new Russia sanctions and tariffs under the Graham Act
CNN: Trump waives Russia-related sanctions before they kick in, prompting backlash from Ukraine and US lawmakers
Grade D (64/100). Waiver, bipartisan backlash
Lehrer score 64/100 (−12 loaded wording: “The latest reprieve by Trump for Moscow’s depleted coffers”; −24 own-voice claim/analysis: “his war in Iran, which remains deeply unpopular with voters”). Fixed scale: 90+ A, 80s B, 70s C, 60s D, under 60 F → D.
Characterizations of motive in narration
Agrees: Waiver issued Oct. 16; order cites 'national interests'
Splits: Leads with critics and Zelensky; includes Rubio's 60-day defense
- Broken. Lehrer #2: Assume the viewer is as smart and caring as I am (no loaded words) (“The latest reprieve by Trump for Moscow’s depleted coffers”)
- Broken. Lehrer #1: Do nothing I cannot defend (accuracy / sourcing of figures) (“his war in Iran, which remains deeply unpopular with voters”)
Same story: Semafor, Fox Business