this is Shades of the Day — bringing you different shades of opinion in news & culture so that you can see the big picture quickly. We believe that seeing multiple POVs is the best way to stay informed.

It’s Tuesday, February 4 — here are today’s three featured stories:

1. The DOJ is considering dropping its case again NYC Mayor Eric Adams.

2. Taylor Swift didn’t take home any Grammys this year.

1) China retaliates against U.S. tariffs with 15% duties on U.S. coal and LNG imports, escalating trade tensions.

2) Trump plans to dismantle the U.S. Education Department, requiring new laws to reassign duties.

3) Treasury and Bessent face scrutiny for sharing sensitive data with Musk's "DOGE" team, sparking privacy debate.

4) USAID, vital for global aid, may face cuts under Trump and Musk, sparking constitutional concerns from Democrats like Raskin.

5) El Salvador offers to take deportees from the US, including violent American criminals.

6) Trump paused Canada tariffs, and stock futures rebounded after initial trade war fears.

DOJ’s Adams dilemma

The Department of Justice is reportedly considering dropping a public corruption case against NYC Mayor Eric Adams. NY Daily News emphasizes the stakes: The DOJ must continue its case against Eric Adams! Dropping it could compromise the independence of the Manhattan U.S. attorney's office.

The American Prospect echoes NY Daily News: Adams is trying to exploit his public office to avoid charges. The DOJ should hold firm!

But AMAC doesn't see it that way: The DOJ's case against Adams reeks of political bias. Adams became a target after he critiqued Democratic policies -- the charges should be dropped.

Either way, Politico notes the situation could be a powerful legal test: Dropping Adams' case may clarify checks on presidential power amid DOJ partisanship.

Swift gets no Grammys

Taylor Swift didn't take home a Grammy trophy this year. Fox News says despite her six nominations, big wins for other artists like Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé dominated the night.

Vulture: Oof. After a killer year in 2024, Taylor's leaving the Grammys with nothing! Is it the end of an era?

But Elle thinks it's not a diss to Taylor: The Recording Academy deliberately spread the accolades around this time, focusing the spotlight on other deserving artists besides Swift.

On the other hand, Newsweek says Taylor still scored a viral moment at the Grammys, even without winning. Her reaction to Kendrick Lamar's “Not Like Us” went viral.