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Apple News Today

English, Daily News, 1 season, 1034 episodes, 6 hours, 44 minutes
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Join Shumita Basu and Duarte Geraldino every weekday morning as they guide you through some of the most fascinating stories in the news — and how the world’s best journalists are covering them.
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How two decades of same-sex marriages changed the U.S.

Twenty years after America’s first same-sex marriages, data shows the effects of the practice on marriage as a whole have been largely positive. The Wall Street Journal looks at the research. Bloomberg reports a new law that would mean big changes to the way we fly. Are tacos and burritos sandwiches? An Indiana judge weighed in on this spicy debate and said yes. The Washington Post has the story. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
5/17/202410 minutes, 37 seconds
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How Trump’s criticism of judges triggers violent threats

A Reuters investigation found that when Trump criticizes trial judges, his supporters respond with posts urging violence. The Wall Street Journal looks at how coverage of the war in Gaza on Israeli television is very different than what the rest of the world see. A geologist believes she’s solved the mystery of the landscape behind the ‘Mona Lisa.’ The Times of London has the story. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
5/16/202410 minutes, 27 seconds
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Israeli whistleblowers allege abuse of detained Palestinians

CNN speaks with Israeli whistleblowers who describe brutal conditions at a shadowy detention facility for Palestinians. Vermont lawmakers passed a bill that would allow the state to go after big oil companies for compensation over damage wrought by climate change. Vermont Public Radio reports. A miniature poodle named Sage won the top prize at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Fox Sports has video of the moment. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
5/15/202410 minutes, 35 seconds
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Inside Rafah’s “horrifying” health crisis

Doctors and nurses at one of the last functioning hospitals in Rafah tell NPR that months of Israeli military operations and border closures have devastated their ability to care for patients. Wired looks at why some states are banning lab-grown meat. Bloomberg Businessweek describes how Caitlin Clark and other star rookies are part of a plan to transform the WNBA. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
5/14/20249 minutes, 22 seconds
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Don’t expect Trump’s political fate to be decided by courts

Politico reporter Josh Gerstein explains why Trump’s political fate likely won’t be decided by the courts. Atomic veterans are on the verge of losing federal benefits. NPR reports on how Congress hasn't helped. Many insomniacs swear by dull narrators who put them to sleep, whether on purpose or not. The Wall Street Journal examines the phenomenon. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
5/13/202410 minutes, 56 seconds
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What Biden’s Rafah “red line” could mean for the war in Gaza

Biden’s “red line” in Gaza is an invasion of Rafah. What will that mean if Israel follows through with the attack? The Guardian’s Julian Borger examines the conundrum.  The Guardian also reports on devastating flooding in Kenya. And Reuters has dramatic images of the severe flooding in southern Brazil. Paco de Leon, a personal-finance expert, shares tips for becoming your own boss on this week’s episode of Apple News In Conversation. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison. 
5/10/20248 minutes, 49 seconds
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The increasingly common 911 call frustrating first responders

After years in a Syrian ISIS camp, a 10-person American family is back in the U.S. NPR has the details. Some senior care homes in the United States are refusing to pick up fallen residents, instead dialing 911. Todd C. Frankel of the Washington Post joins to talk about the problem. The “world’s largest” vacuum to suck climate pollution out of the air just opened. CNN explains how it works. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison. 
5/9/202410 minutes
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Why disrupted graduations feel familiar for class of 2024

TikTok and its owners filed a legal challenge over a recent U.S. law that would ban the app if it doesn’t find a buyer in a year. NPR has the story. NPR also examines claims that the ban could be “an extinction-level event” for the creator economy. Columbia canceled its universitywide commencement ceremony after weeks of protests on campus. NBC News reports.  ESPN explains how WNBA plans to fund chartered flights could be a game changer for players.  Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison. 
5/8/20249 minutes, 53 seconds
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Essential reporting on campus protests, by student journalists

Politico asks student journalists what’s really happening on college campuses. Inside the encampments and crackdowns that shook American politics. A report for New York magazine by the staff of the Columbia Daily Spectator. David Nakamura of the Washington Post explains the obscure N.Y. election law at the heart of Trump’s hush-money trial.  Apple News looks at some of the most important work done by this year’s Pulitzer Prize winners. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison.
5/7/202410 minutes, 22 seconds
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What to know about Gaza ceasefire talks

The Washington Post reports on Hamas’s attack on a Gaza border crossing and on the status of ceasefire talks. In an exclusive interview with ABC News, Olympian and WNBA star Brittney Griner reflects on her freedom from Russian prison. Wall Street Journal columnist Clare Ansberry explains why millions of American kids are doing the adult work of providing care for family. Madonna’s free concert at Brazil's Copacabana beach was her largest ever, drawing 1.6 million fans. Reuters has images from the show. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison.
5/6/202410 minutes, 29 seconds
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Inside an assassination plot on American soil

Washington Post reporter Greg Miller talks about an investigation into an assassination plot on American soil, and what it reveals about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government in India. NPR has the story of how some faculty members are defending student protesters, in actions and in words. For the first time, an orangutan was seen treating his wounds with a medicinal plant. NBC News explains why scientists are so excited by the discovery. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
5/3/202410 minutes, 1 second
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What students protesting over Gaza want colleges to do

Vox explains what student demonstrators against the war in Gaza are calling on their universities to do. Nabih Bulos, the Middle East bureau chief for the Los Angeles Times, shares his reporting on a medical facility in Qatar that’s treating child amputees from Gaza. The New Yorker spent time with a secret society of writers and artists that’s trying to rethink how we pay attention in an age of infinite distraction. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
5/2/202410 minutes, 16 seconds
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How Trump wants to reshape America in a second term

Donald Trump sits down with Time reporter Eric Cortellessa for exclusive interviews about what a second term could look like if he wins. There’s also a transcript and fact-check of the conversations. Wired explains why millions of Americans could lose internet access today. Every vote counts for the GOP in the House — which is why the enthusiasm of some Republican lawmakers for activities such as skydiving is causing jitters in Washington. The Wall Street Journal reports. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
5/1/202410 minutes, 14 seconds
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Trump goes back to court as hush-money trial resumes

Politico reporter Ben Feuerherd explains what happened in Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York last week — and what to expect from this week in court. PBS NewsHour reports on how Israelis marked the Passover holiday, amid conflict, loss and trauma. ESPN looks back at the long, complicated friendship between Donte DiVincenzo, Jalen Brunson, and Josh Hart, former Villanova teammates who now play together on the New York Knicks. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
4/30/202410 minutes, 40 seconds
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How the U.S. used troops on student protesters in the past

An expert writes in the Washington Post about America’s grim history of using troops against student protesters. And a Post analysis looks back at how the public felt about campus protests against the Vietnam War at the time. New federal flying rules require more price transparency and for airlines to provide full cash refunds when flights are canceled or significantly changed. NPR spoke to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg about the changes. The Athletic looks back at the storied career of Candace Parker, who is retiring from the WNBA. Nike is expected to alter MLB uniforms by 2025 after months of complaints, according to a union memo obtained by The Athletic. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
4/29/202410 minutes, 46 seconds
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Why Harvey Weinstein’s N.Y. rape conviction was overturned

A New York court’s reversal of Harvey Weinstein’s rape conviction dealt a blow to a long effort to hold the former Hollywood producer accountable. The Wall Street Journal explains what it means. The federal government passed new nursing-home staffing rules. Most facilities don’t have enough personnel to meet them. Jordan Rau from KFF Health News tells us more. Emily Oster, an economist and parenting expert, talks about how to make America a better place to raise kids on this week’s episode of Apple News In Conversation. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
4/26/202410 minutes, 42 seconds
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The Supreme Court hears Trump’s unprecedented immunity claim

NBC reporter Lawrence Hurley explains how Donald Trump could win at the Supreme Court even if his broad immunity argument is rejected. Finding matched donors for bone-marrow transplants has always been a major challenge. A repurposed drug has solved that problem. Sarah Zhang from The Atlantic has the details. The Athletic looks into how name, image, and likeness payments in college football are affecting the NFL draft.  Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick. 
4/25/202410 minutes, 13 seconds
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The move that could change 30 million Americans’ jobs

The FTC finalized a rule banning most employers from using noncompete clauses. CNN has more. The Supreme Court is hearing a pair of cases about emergency abortions. It’s the court’s first chance to weigh in on the state laws restricting abortion that have gone into effect since it overturned Roe v. Wade. USA Today reporter Maureen Groppe explains the stakes. The Washington Post looks at how Columbia University’s campus protests in April 1968 were also marked by mass arrests. The Los Angeles Times visits a project in South Korea where, inspired by reality television, Buddhist monks serve as matchmakers. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
4/24/202410 minutes, 47 seconds
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More arrests of college students protesting the war in Gaza

NBC News takes a look at how Gaza protests are playing out at colleges across America. A provision that would ban TikTok — or force a sale — landed in a foreign-aid bill for Ukraine and Israel that is expected to pass the Senate today. NPR explains what to know about the possible ban. Wall Street Journal reporter Jim Carlton details efforts in California to stop a coastal train route from falling into Pacific. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
4/23/202410 minutes, 33 seconds
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Who is Juan Merchan, the judge in Trump’s hush-money trial?

Judge Juan Merchan, who’s presiding over Donald Trump’s New York criminal trial, has already ruled against him. USA Today journalist Bart Jansen explains how Merchan works. Wall Street Journal reporter Liz Essley Whyte tells us why drug shortages in America have reached a record high. Something weird is happening with Caesar salads. The Atlantic takes a look. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
4/22/202410 minutes, 58 seconds
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How guns became ubiquitous in the U.S. after Columbine

Since the mass shooting at Columbine High School 25 years ago, guns have grown ubiquitous in America. The Trace examines how that’s changed the way we navigate our lives. This week’s Apple News In Conversation explores how money affects your mental health, featuring advice from therapist Megan McCoy.  Breaking — aka breakdancing — has made it into the Olympics for the first time. NBC News details what to expect in Paris. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan. 
4/19/202411 minutes, 25 seconds
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Understanding the blame game over Gaza aid delays

Israel has blocked a huge array of aid items from entering Gaza. The Washington Post has the full list, from crutches to chocolate croissants. Meanwhile, CBS reports on recent finger-pointing between Israel and the U.N. on delays to aid.  Missouri teen Ralph Yarl tells NBC News how he’s been coping since he was shot in the head after ringing the wrong doorbell nearly a year ago: “It is a constant uphill battle.” NASA confirmed that the heavy chunk of metal that crashed into a Florida home last month was space-station debris. The Guardian has more.  Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan. 
4/18/202410 minutes, 35 seconds
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Their ship hit the Key Bridge. Why are they stuck aboard?

Twenty-one sailors are stuck aboard the ship that hit Baltimore’s Key Bridge — with no end in sight. Popular Mechanics has the story. Vox explains Caitlin Clark’s staggeringly low WNBA starting salary. Why would anyone steal $300,000 in Lego sets? Believe it or not, there’s a booming black market, according to the Los Angeles Times.  Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan. 
4/17/202410 minutes, 22 seconds
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Supreme Court hears Jan. 6 case with implications for Trump

The Supreme Court will weigh if January 6 insurgents can be charged with obstruction. Washington Post reporter Ann Marimow explains the implications. One year into Sudan’s civil war, there are fears of repeated atrocities. NPR reports. Author Salman Rushdie speaks with CBS News about the 2022 attack that nearly took his life, and the new book he’s written about the incident. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
4/16/20249 minutes, 41 seconds
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Understanding the charges in Trump’s historic criminal trial

Apple News In Conversation has everything you need to know about Donald Trump’s historic criminal trial that starts today in New York, plus insights on Trump’s other three pending criminal cases. Iran attacked Israel, escalating an already volatile conflict. NPR has the details. Twenty years after images of abuse at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq shocked the world, a military contractor the prison will go to trial and face testimony from survivors. Time has the story. Today’s the tax deadline, and Vox has tips and tricks from an accountant to help with next year’s taxes. And the Washington Post looks at some very unusual — and unsuccessful — deductions people have tried. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
4/15/202410 minutes, 55 seconds
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Why the O.J. Simpson trial still matters

Following an Israeli attack on a major hospital, Gazans are sifting through the rubble for the bodies of their dead. NBC News has the story. Time explains how O.J. Simpson changed everything. Financial columnist Charlotte Cowles tells Apple News In Conversation how she got scammed out of $50,000 and suggests ways to prevent that happening to you. ‘Bluey’ fans are worried that the much-loved children’s cartoon could be ending. Bloomberg Businessweek reports. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
4/12/202410 minutes, 51 seconds
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What the judge will ask jurors in Trump hush-money case

The start of Trump’s first criminal trial offers a vexing question: how to find a proper jury for such an unprecedented case. Erica Orden from Politico describes the selection process. For one Nigerian family, freedom after a kidnapping hasn’t ended their terror. NPR tells their harrowing story. An astronaut will land on the moon. For the first time, they won’t be an American. USA Today has more. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
4/11/202410 minutes, 7 seconds
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Delayed student financial aid leaves millions in limbo

As millions wait for delayed college financial aid, families are facing tough choices. NBC News journalist Haley Messenger has the story. The BBC reports on how a group of Swiss women has won the first ever climate-case victory in the European Court of Human Rights. ESPN looks back on the career of Tara VanDerveer, who is retiring as the winningest coach in college basketball history. And the Wall Street Journal reveals how the NCAA women beat the men in finals’ ratings for the first time — but brought in 99% less TV money. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
4/10/202410 minutes, 1 second
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Why more Americans are moving back in with family

Key Republican members of Congress are planning to retire. Washington Post reporter Marianna Sotomayor explains how that spells trouble for Speaker Mike Johnson.  More Americans are now living with their parents. Vox details the economic, cultural, and environmental reasons why. The U.S. is bracing for trillions of cicadas to emerge from the earth, in a rare double event. The Guardian has the story.  Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan. Correction: An earlier version of this episode incorrectly identified University of Connecticut head coach Dan Hurley as the son of actor Bill Murray. Murray’s son Luke is an assistant coach at the school.
4/9/202411 minutes, 4 seconds
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Eclipse day is here. Here’s how to prepare.

Today’s the day of the event we’ve all been waiting for: the total solar eclipse. Apple News has what you need to know. NPR correspondents including Daniel Estrin reflect on six months of Israel’s war in Gaza. The big problem for marijuana companies? What to do with all that cash. The Wall Street Journal’s Alexander Saeedy has the story. And South Carolina defeated Iowa to win the women’s NCAA national title. Read coverage of the game from The State. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
4/8/202411 minutes, 49 seconds
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The new magic number for retirement planning, and how to see the eclipse

Tonight is the Final Four of the women’s NCAA Tournament. Apple News sports editor Haley O’Shaughnessy joins us to explain why it’s such a powerful moment for women’s basketball, while the Los Angeles Times takes a look at how Caitlin Clark ended up playing against UConn instead of for them. The Washington Post has your ultimate guide to the coming total solar eclipse, its path, and how to watch.  The new magic number for retirement is $1.46 million. Here’s what it tells us, according to the Wall Street Journal. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison.
4/5/202410 minutes, 35 seconds
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America bet big on sports gambling. The backlash is here.

CNN reporter Sebastian Shukla examines a wave of xenophobia in Russia against Central Asian migrants following the terror attack near Moscow. America made a huge bet on sports gambling. The Wall Street Journal’s Joshua Robinson explains how the consequences of that decision are becoming clear. Reuters looks at why the White House directed NASA to create a unified standard of time for the moon. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison.
4/4/20249 minutes, 31 seconds
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José Andrés on aid-worker killings and Gaza’s food crisis

The Wall Street Journal has an in-depth look at José Andrés’s World Central Kitchen, after the Israeli military killed seven of its aid workers.  The Los Angeles Times examines how Disney’s biggest shareholder fight in 20 years will shape the company’s future. Republicans are hoping to win Black voters for Trump. Reporting from Reuters in Wisconsin shows that it won’t be easy. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison.
4/3/202410 minutes, 22 seconds
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Birth-control misinformation is rampant online, doctors say

Reporting from the Guardian examines the possible pollution impacts of the collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge. Lauren Weber of the Washington Post, who’s been speaking to doctors, tells us how they say patients are making birth-control medical decisions based on social-media misinformation. What’s it like to live in space? Astronaut Loral O’Hara tells NPR it changes her dreams. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison.
4/2/20249 minutes, 42 seconds
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Protesters in Israel demand Netanyahu’s resignation

The Guardian looks into why thousands of protesters in Israel are calling on Netanyahu to resign. Amy Leah Potter, a nurse with Doctors Without Borders who recently returned from Gaza, tells us about the war’s toll on children. ABC News reports on how some kids there go to bed worrying that they’ll be killed. Many Americans are deeply frustrated with U.S. politics. Ezra Klein spoke to In Conversation about some ways to fix things. The Washington Post profiles controversial LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Mark Garrison.
4/1/20248 minutes, 53 seconds
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Why more schools are banning cellphones

Wall Street Journal journalist Evan Gershkovich has been wrongfully detained in Russia for one year. Assistant editor Paul Beckett told us about the Journal’s efforts to bring him home. Vox explains why more schools across the country are locking up students’ cellphones during class time. CNN has details on Beyoncé’s new album. Music journalist Taylor Crumpton argues in Time that the star has always been country. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
3/29/202413 minutes, 4 seconds
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Stories of the victims of the Baltimore bridge collapse

CNN tells the stories of some of the people who died in the Baltimore bridge collapse. As the war in Gaza continues, Israel is facing new pressure to draft ultra-Orthodox men into military service. NPR has the story. ESPN has what to watch as the Major League Baseball season begins. And we’re joined by Russell Dorsey from Apple TV+’s ‘Friday Night Baseball.’ Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
3/28/20249 minutes, 26 seconds
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What’s next after the deadly Baltimore bridge collapse

Investigators are looking into whether dirty fuel may have played a role in the cargo-ship crash that brought down Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge. The Wall Street Journal has the story. Bloomberg’s Riley Griffin explains how fentanyl became a priority issue for voters in crucial swing states. Turkey’s government is seizing homes that survived massive earthquakes. Reuters correspondent Burcu Karakaş discusses how residents are reacting to the controversial policy. Vox looks into the downsides of our fixation on self-improvement. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
3/27/202412 minutes, 10 seconds
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The Supreme Court case that could limit abortion pills

The Baltimore Sun reports on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Shefali Luthra, health reporter from The 19th, explains today’s Supreme Court arguments about the abortion pill mifepristone. As sports betting increases around the country, so do concerns about gambling addiction. Marketplace has the story. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
3/26/202410 minutes, 59 seconds
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How the deadly terror attack in Russia exposes Putin

The Washington Post looks into what the deadly Moscow terror attack tells us about Russia’s national-security vulnerabilities. CBS News details Biden’s latest moves to forgive billions in student debt. So your NCAA bracket is busted. Should you have just chosen all the top seeds? NPR explains why it’s not that simple. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
3/25/20249 minutes, 59 seconds
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What you need to know about big changes to real estate

James Rodriguez from Business Insider explains how things are about to get weird for homebuyers and sellers. Semafor reporter Shelby Talcott on how January 6 is playing into Trump’s campaign. The Ghost Army that fooled the Nazis received one of America’s highest honors. The Washington Post has their story. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
3/22/202410 minutes, 23 seconds
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Trump’s legal and money troubles come to a head

NPR explains what happens if Trump can’t pay his $454 million bond. Biden is seeking to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles with his most far-reaching climate regulation yet. The Washington Post has the story. Apple News editor Shaker Samman shares what he’ll be watching as March Madness heats up. And The Athletic has more coverage. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
3/21/202413 minutes, 49 seconds
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Former Nickelodeon stars discuss abuse allegations

A new documentary details allegations of abuse at Nickelodeon during the channel’s golden years. Vulture reports. Wall Street Journal reporter Rachel Wolfe explains why cooling inflation is failing to lift the national economic mood. Some Americans panic-bought bidets during the pandemic due to toilet-paper shortages. The Washington Post finds that many are now serious bidet enthusiasts. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Gideon Resnick.
3/20/202410 minutes, 12 seconds
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How third-party candidates might upend the presidential race

Democrats are preparing to go to war against third-party candidates in the presidential election, NBC News reports. Apple News editor Gideon Resnick walks us through how an outside candidate could upend the race. Some of the L.A. Dodgers’ most expensive players will make their debuts as the team begins its MLB season. The Athletic previews its opening game. Chocolate companies say they may need to raise prices due to a surge in the cost of cocoa. ABC News has details. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
3/19/202412 minutes, 9 seconds
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The police officers accused of child sexual abuse

A New Orleans police officer sexually abused a teenage girl he met on the job. He is one of hundreds of officers arrested for child sexual abuse over the past two decades. Washington Post reporter Jessica Contrera talks about investigating allegations against law enforcement. The SAT exam is now an hour shorter and completely digital. NBC News has more. The Wall Street Journal remembers Shigeichi Negishi, the inventor of the karaoke machine, who’s died at 100. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
3/18/20249 minutes, 34 seconds
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What to know about the death of a Boeing whistleblower

The Washington Post explores how the death of a Boeing whistleblower has compounded existing problems at the company. Reporter Ian Duncan spoke with Apple News Today. Politico examines the U.S.’s changing relationship with Israel, after Sen. Chuck Schumer called for new elections there. Disinformation is becoming a bigger problem as tools to create and share it get better. Legal analyst Barbara McQuade explains what to watch out for on this week’s Apple News In Conversation. Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan. 
3/15/202412 minutes, 35 seconds
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Biden vowed to cut drug prices. Big Pharma is fighting back.

The Washington Post reports on how Big Pharma is fighting Biden’s program to lower prescription-drug costs for seniors.  In the New Yorker, one writer examines what it means to fast for Ramadan while Gaza goes hungry.  Vox asks: What’s a Saturn return — and why are so many popular musicians singing about it? Today’s episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan. 
3/14/202410 minutes, 34 seconds
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The U.S. bill giving TikTok an ultimatum

The Washington Post reports on a bill racing toward passage in the House that would require TikTok’s Beijing-based parent company to sell or risk a U.S. ban.  Under pressure from the U.S. and Caribbean governments, Haiti’s embattled prime minister announced he will resign. The Miami Herald explains why. New York magazine examines what the online response to the withdrawn Kate Middleton family photo says about the royals and us. Today's episode was guest-hosted by Yasmeen Khan.
3/13/202413 minutes, 1 second
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The struggle to reunite families separated under Trump

At least 5,000 families were forcibly separated during the Trump administration. The work of reunifying them is painfully incomplete. New York magazine reports. The sons of late author Gabriel García Márquez just published his last novel against his wishes. NPR speaks with one of them to find out why. The global gender gap is far bigger than previously thought, a World Bank study found. The Guardian has the details. 
3/12/202411 minutes, 59 seconds
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Netanyahu’s plan to invade Rafah: “We’re not going to leave”

Israeli prime minister Netanyahu, speaking to Politico, says he intends to press ahead with a planned invasion of the Gaza city of Rafah, despite Biden’s warning that it would cross a “red line.” Babies are dying of syphilis in the U.S. It’s 100% preventable. ProPublica investigates.  New York magazine has the highs, lows, and “whoas” of the 2024 Oscars. 
3/11/202412 minutes, 19 seconds
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What to know about last night’s State of the Union address

Biden defended his administration and took on Trump in his address in last night’s State of the Union. NBC News has the key moments.  The Wall Street Journal reports on how Israel’s war cabinet is at war with itself.  The first of the former president’s four criminal trials is coming up at the end of March. There’s a lot to keep track of — so Apple News In Conversation has a primer. CNN goes behind the unusual approach to the filming of ‘Io Capitano,’ nominated for the Best International Feature Oscar. The lead actors weren’t told how it would end. And the Wall Street Journal looks at how ‘Godzilla Minus One’ reimagined its famous monster — and snagged an Oscar nod for Best Visual Effects.
3/8/202411 minutes, 24 seconds
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Wildfires have devastated Texas’s cattle industry

The Wall Street Journal previews Biden’s State of the Union address.  CNN reports from Texas about how wildfires have devastated the state’s cattle-farming industry.  NBC News speaks with the 29-year-old who just became the first American woman to race nonstop around the world on her own.
3/7/202411 minutes, 52 seconds
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Nikki Haley’s campaign exit sets up a Biden-Trump rematch

A Washington Post reporter’s account of an aid drop into Gaza. In a landmark move for student athletes, Dartmouth men’s basketball players have voted to unionize. The Athletic has the story. USA Today describes what it’s like to vote from outer space.
3/6/20249 minutes, 54 seconds
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What to watch on Super Tuesday

NPR details what to expect on Super Tuesday. While the world was looking elsewhere, North Korea became a bigger threat. The Wall Street Journal has the story. Singapore’s prime minister defended the country’s exclusive arrangement to secure Taylor Swift concerts. Neighboring nations are upset at missing out. CNBC has more.
3/5/202411 minutes, 2 seconds
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The U.S. push for a temporary cease-fire in Gaza

Kamala Harris urged Hamas to agree to an immediate, six-week pause in fighting in Gaza, and pushed Israel to allow more aid in. Reuters has the story. CNN examines how one of the world’s biggest cities may be only months away from running out of water. ESPN reports on how Iowa’s Caitlin Clark passed Pete Maravich to take the record of the most points scored by a Division I basketball player, and how LeBron James became the first NBA player to reach 40,000 regular-season points.
3/4/202410 minutes, 12 seconds
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What we know about Palestinians killed near aid trucks

More than 110 Palestinians were reportedly killed while trying to access desperately needed aid in Gaza. The Guardian has more. Fears of famine in Gaza are growing as aid agencies suspend deliveries, NBC News reports.  First responders in a Texas town are struggling to cope with the trauma of recovering bodies from the Rio Grande. NBC News spoke to some.  This week’s episode of Apple News In Conversation seeks to answer some burning questions about the 2024 presidential election. 
3/1/20248 minutes, 16 seconds
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Republicans scramble as backlash over IVF ruling continues

Yale is bringing back standardized test scores to its admissions process, after making them optional during the pandemic. The Washington Post explains why. The Guardian reports on how a Senate attempt to protect IVF access following a controversial Alabama Supreme Court ruling was blocked by a Republican lawmaker. And the Wall Street Journal details the ways GOP lawmakers are attempting to minimize political damage from the ruling. The Athletic breaks down why Anthony Kim’s return to golf is such a big deal. Episode Transcript
2/29/202411 minutes, 20 seconds
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What counts as a machine gun? Supreme Court hears case.

Does a bump stock turn a rifle into a machine gun? USA Today has the details of a Supreme Court case being heard today that turns on that question.  NPR examines why Egypt won’t allow vulnerable Palestinians across its border. National Geographic explains how leap years saved human societies from chaos — for now.
2/28/20249 minutes, 11 seconds
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Arab Americans challenge Biden’s Gaza response in primary

Arabs and Muslims in Michigan have been organizing against President Joe Biden ahead of today’s primary. They told the Washington Post that they’re angry he hasn’t called for a cease-fire in Gaza. The Post also details their plan to use the primary to prove that their support is essential for Biden to carry the state in November. Florida’s surgeon general is gambling with public health after a measles outbreak in an elementary school. The Atlantic has the story. National Geographic looks at how your name might influence your career. 
2/27/20248 minutes, 47 seconds
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How asylum-seeking migrants got stuck living at O’Hare

A couple has to leave Alabama or risk losing their eggs after uncertainty over a court ruling forced providers to pause IVF treatment. CNN has the story. Rolling Stone looks into how asylum-seeking migrants found themselves living at a makeshift shelter at Chicago’s O’Hare airport.  Employers are adding signature scents to workspaces with the hope of luring more workers into the office. The Wall Street Journal reports.
2/26/20249 minutes, 44 seconds
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What to know as the war in Ukraine enters its third year

As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, the Wall Street Journal takes stock of where things stand.  Donald Trump and former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley are about to face off in the state’s primary. NPR has more.  The Athletic looks at an unusual season for Texas Christian University’s women’s basketball team. 
2/23/202411 minutes, 24 seconds
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The national-security threat lurking at U.S. ports

A nonbinary teenager in Oklahoma has died. The Washington Post tells us about Nex Benedict.  The U.S. government plans to spend billions of dollars to replace China-made cranes at shipping ports. The Wall Street Journal explains why. Apple News has everything you need to know about the new Major League Soccer season. 
2/22/20248 minutes, 34 seconds
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What’s next for IVF after a controversial legal ruling

The Alabama Reflector reports on how a major state Supreme Court ruling has left the future of IVF uncertain — both in the state and across the country. WLRN investigates a new law that’s quietly devastating Florida’s public-sector labor unions.  The lifespan of large home appliances is shrinking. The Wall Street Journal explains why.
2/21/20248 minutes, 15 seconds
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Life under Tennessee’s strict abortion law

One woman told ProPublica about how Tennessee’s strict abortion ban forced her to carry a life-threatening pregnancy. Health officials say Nasser Hospital, the second-largest in Gaza, is in crisis after Israeli troops raided the facility. The Washington Post has the story. Wired looks at how Los Angeles’s investments in sponge infrastructure are helping combat relentless rain.
2/20/20249 minutes, 47 seconds
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Alexey Navalny is dead. What’s next for Russia?

Following the death of Alexey Navalny, Putin’s fiercest critic, Time looks at the Russian opposition leader’s legacy. The tech industry is struggling to deal with AI deepfakes and deceptive content during a consequential election cycle. The Wall Street Journal has the story. NASA is struggling to communicate with its storied spacecraft Voyager 1, which was launched 45 years ago and has traveled out into deep space. Popular Mechanics explains.
2/19/20249 minutes, 46 seconds
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Parents of gun-violence victims use AI to push for change

U.S. federal judges are dealing with a surge in serious, politically driven threats, an analysis by Reuters finds. Grieving parents are using AI to re-create the voices of children killed in shootings to advocate for gun reform. The Wall Street Journal explores why. University of Iowa’s Caitlin Clark set a new scoring record for NCAA women’s basketball. The Athletic has more. The WNBA’s Sabrina Ionescu and the NBA’s Stephen Curry are going head-to-head in a 3-point contest tomorrow as part of All-Star Weekend. ESPN has the story.
2/16/202412 minutes, 42 seconds
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A date has been set for Trump's first criminal trial

It’s a hectic week in Donald Trump’s trial schedule. The Washington Post previews what to expect from today’s dual court sessions. Ten months of civil war in Sudan has caused the largest displacement of people on the planet. NPR reports. Ahead of Beyoncé’s forthcoming country album, Billboard looks at how Black artists have historically faced barriers to entry into the genre.
2/15/202412 minutes, 1 second
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Financial-aid issues leave colleges and students in limbo

Reuters examines the history of UNRWA, a U.N. agency that provides crucial relief for Palestinians  — and which Israel wants to dismantle. Colleges and students are reeling after a bumpy rollout of the new federal student financial-aid system. The Washington Post breaks down what went wrong.  The Wall Street Journal explains why high numbers of single people make for good business on Valentine’s Day.
2/14/202411 minutes, 9 seconds
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The race to replace George Santos

Today, voters in Long Island choose a replacement for former congressman George Santos. Politico has the details, and explains how the special election may also provide insight into what to expect from the race for president.  NPR looks into how flight attendants are fighting to change how they’re compensated. The Kansas City Star describes how the ambitions of potential Black astronauts were hindered as America entered the space race.
2/13/202411 minutes, 4 seconds
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Terrified civilians in Rafah await Israel’s ground invasion

Twelve days after Hind Rajab, 6, made an emergency call begging to be rescued from active fighting in Gaza, her body was found. NBC has her story.  Measles is on the rise around the world, and even experts who saw it coming say the increase is “staggering.” NPR reports. The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers in overtime in the Super Bowl to cement their dynasty status. The Athletic has the details. 
2/12/20249 minutes, 38 seconds
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The American city calling for migrants to move in

The Wall Street Journal reports on an American city with a message for migrants: We want you. Apple News In Conversation explores why America is obsessed with the NFL. A singer in hospice care put out what might be her final song — for her son. The Washington Post has the story.
2/9/202411 minutes, 32 seconds
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Inside the court case that could knock Trump off the ballot

The Washington Post talks to the 91-year-old Republican suing to kick Donald Trump off the ballot. NBC looks at how GOP senators blocked a bipartisan immigration deal. The Wall Street Journal goes inside the “delicious dispute” in court over who created the popular Indian dish butter chicken.
2/8/202411 minutes, 30 seconds
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A landmark conviction for a school shooter’s mother

In a landmark verdict, a jury found Jennifer Crumbley, the mother of a school shooter, guilty of involuntary manslaughter. USA Today has more. The Wall Street Journal explains what to know about Pakistan’s turbulent election. The moon is shrinking. The Guardian looks at why that matters.
2/7/202410 minutes, 2 seconds
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The reasons why your groceries are still so expensive

Inflation has fallen. The Washington Post examines why groceries are still so expensive. NPR reports on how families of hostages and prisoners are reaching their loved ones through Israeli and Palestinian radio. What really caused the Sriracha shortage? Fortune details the epic breakup of two friends that left millions without their favorite hot sauce.
2/6/202410 minutes, 49 seconds
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How the IRS is going after billionaires dodging taxes

The Associated Press reports on the surprisingly large part prison labor plays in food production in America. NPR looks at how the IRS is going after wealthy people who aren’t paying their share of taxes. And NPR also covers how the agency is piloting new software that could let you file your taxes for free. Rolling Stone rounds up the best, worst, and weirdest moments from the Grammys.
2/5/202410 minutes, 52 seconds
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What South Carolina can tell us about Biden’s 2024 chances

Ahead of South Carolina’s Democratic primary, the Washington Post looks into how it may indicate about Black support for Biden in the general election. One year after the toxic derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, residents are still worried about the health of the town. Ideastream Public Media reports. Tony Snell’s mission to return to the NBA is about more than just basketball. Yahoo Sports has the story.
2/2/202410 minutes, 36 seconds
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At Senate hearing, tech CEOs grilled over protecting kids

CNN has five takeaways from the tech CEOs’ appearance at a Senate hearing yesterday. The Washington Post has an investigation into the broken promises of the NFL concussion settlement. NPR breaks down how the Education Department is set to fast-track forgiveness for borrowers with smaller student loans.
2/1/202411 minutes
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How Trump’s legal woes are threatening his fortune

Trump’s cash stockpile is at risk because of his many legal problems. Bloomberg has the details. ProPublica uncovers how Walmart’s financial services became a fraud magnet. The men who practice against college-basketball star Caitlin Clark can’t stop her either, The Athletic reports.
1/31/202410 minutes, 4 seconds
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Middle East problems pile up for Biden

Politico reports that the intensifying Red Sea conflict is threatening to unleash worldwide economic havoc — and explains why some Democrats are concerned about the political fallout in the U.S. A physician writes in the Washington Post about how tens of thousands of Black U.S. doctors simply vanished. Can Taylor Swift get to the Super Bowl from her Eras Tour? The Athletic has some possible routes.
1/30/202411 minutes, 17 seconds
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Inside the deadly conditions for children in Gaza

War in Gaza is making childbirth a nightmare. The Washington Post has the story. Museums across the U.S. are closing exhibits featuring Native American cultural artifacts, in response to new regulations from the Biden administration. CNN explains why. A Los Angeles Times writer goes on a scientific journey to heal his broken heart.
1/29/202410 minutes, 41 seconds
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U.N. court declines to order cease-fire in Israel-Hamas war

The U.N.’s top court told Israel to 'take all measures' to prevent genocide in Gaza, but stopped short of ordering a cease-fire. The Wall Street Journal has more on what comes next. Thousands of news employees have lost their jobs over the last year as publications attempt to reduce operating costs. Poynter looks at what the cuts have meant for morale in media. And the Washington Post goes inside this week’s mass layoffs at the Los Angeles Times. The Guardian has a preview of this weekend’s NFL conference championship games.
1/26/202412 minutes, 15 seconds
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The FAA’s good news and bad news for Boeing

The FAA had good and bad news for Boeing: It approved a set of inspection criteria that could return grounded 737 Max 9 planes to service — but it won’t allow the company to expand production until quality-control issues are resolved. CNN has more. The Washington Post details how an Ohio law is making it harder for transgender candidates to run for office there. Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid tallied a career-high 70 points in one game. The Wall Street Journal explains why it’s not the most impressive number of his season.
1/25/20248 minutes, 52 seconds
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Trump beat Haley in New Hampshire. What happens now?

The Los Angeles Times reports on Trump’s win over Nikki Haley in the New Hampshire primary. The 21 IDF soldiers killed in a single incident on Monday were rigging buildings with explosives. It’s drawn attention to Israeli plans to build a buffer zone in Gaza. The Washington Post has more. The Wall Street Journal spoke to doctors who are trying to understand why more young people are developing cancer. Barbie’s Ryan Gosling called out the Oscars for their perceived snubbing of Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie. People has the story.
1/24/202411 minutes, 4 seconds
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Why this year’s Democratic race in New Hampshire is so weird

USA Today explains the weirdness of New Hampshire’s Democratic race. And the Washington Post looks at how the state’s GOP primary may be Haley’s best chance to stop or slow Trump. The parents of a school shooter are going on trial in Michigan. NBC has the story. National Geographic examines new laws aimed at improving animal welfare in America.
1/23/20248 minutes, 19 seconds
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Why Trump’s new campaign playbook is so effective

The Wall Street Journal reports on how a new campaign strategy helped Trump leap ahead of rivals in his party. A new study may pave the way for tests and treatments for long-COVID patients. NBC explains. Stanford’s Tara VanDerveer passed Mike Krzyzewski for the most wins in college basketball. USA Today has more.
1/22/20249 minutes, 31 seconds
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He survived one execution. He’s fighting to avoid another.

NPR has an interview with a man on death row who survived a botched execution and now faces another. The Wall Street Journal reports on how food-industry lobbyists are trying to prevent federal dietary guidelines from being critical of ultraprocessed foods. And the Journal has a guide to how to tell if food in your fridge is ultraprocessed. Apple News In Conversation speaks to a national-security journalist about what the government knows — and doesn’t know — about UFOs.
1/19/20249 minutes, 23 seconds
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What’s next for Boeing after series of setbacks

Bloomberg looks at the future for Boeing, which is under investigation after a panel came off a plane in midair. NPR explains what to know about COVID right now. And Vox has health tips for all the illnesses going around at the moment. A recent study shows that the world’s five richest men doubled their wealth since 2020. CNBC reports.
1/18/20249 minutes, 47 seconds
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Gaza families are starving. Aid agencies want action.

Aid agencies say more than half a million people in Gaza are starving. The Guardian has details. And a CBS journalist reports on the hazardous conditions there for civilians. The Washington Post explains how a pair of Supreme Court cases about fishing could have broad impact on the power of federal agencies. Tennis balls are causing arm injuries, top players say. A review is underway. NPR has the story.
1/17/20249 minutes, 59 seconds
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Trump won Iowa in a landslide. What happens next?

The Washington Post has key takeaways from Trump’s win at the Iowa caucuses. USA Today reports on an Iowa principal killed while protecting students during a school shooting. CNBC explains how the Stanley Quencher became one of the most popular water bottles in the world.
1/16/20248 minutes, 50 seconds
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What to watch in the Iowa caucuses

Bloomberg explains how the Iowa caucuses could make or break Republican campaigns in 2024. Politico reports on the global elections to watch this year. Hamas aired video of three Israeli hostages Sunday, as both sides marked the 100th day of the war. Reuters has details. The Wall Street Journal has the story of how a 77-year-old mayor keeps the Iowa tradition of caucusing in a private living room alive.
1/15/20248 minutes, 53 seconds
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Why a U.S.-led coalition launched new airstrikes on Yemen

NPR reports on U.S.-led strikes against Iran-aligned Houthi militants in Yemen.  The Wall Street Journal explains why buying home and auto insurance in the United States is becoming impossible.  On this week’s episode of Apple News In Conversation, host Shumita Basu and Tim Alberta, a practicing Christian and the author of the new book The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism, discuss how so many evangelicals became Trump loyalists. 
1/12/20249 minutes, 47 seconds
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Understanding South Africa’s genocide case against Israel

Vox explains South Africa’s genocide case against Israel.  The BBC has what you need to know about the wave of gang violence terrorizing people in Ecuador.  A staggering new clue on D.B. Cooper's tie has blown the 52-year-old skyjacking case wide open. Popular Mechanics has the story.
1/11/202410 minutes, 6 seconds
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Inside the aviation industry’s rough start to 2024

One plane broke mid-flight. Another burst into flames. The Wall Street Journal explains how the aviation industry is reckoning with two recent almost-catastrophes. House Republicans are holding an impeachment hearing for Biden’s top border official, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Reuters has a preview, while the Washington Post reports on new data about border crossings. The Los Angeles Times reports on new research into nanoplastics found in bottled water, and what these microscopic particles could mean for your health.
1/10/20249 minutes, 38 seconds
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How the U.S. is trying to keep the Gaza war from spreading

Israel is talking about expanding its war to Lebanon, and it’s causing alarm among U.S. officials. The Washington Post has more.  They were wrongfully convicted in Michigan. Now they’re being denied compensation despite state law. ProPublica reports. The Guardian has the story of a Welsh mouse who might be tidying up just for fun.
1/9/20249 minutes, 56 seconds
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New evidence found in Alaska Airlines flight investigation

Investigators recovered key part from the Alaska Airlines flight that was forced to make an emergency landing on Friday. Reuters has the details. The Wall Street Journal has the story on Google’s decision to end third-party cookies — and what it means for advertisers and Chrome users. The Athletic previews tonight’s national college-football championship between the Michigan Wolverines and the Washington Huskies.
1/8/20249 minutes, 31 seconds
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How Republicans and Democrats see Jan. 6 differently

Biden is giving a speech on democracy today ahead of the January 6 insurrection anniversary. Bloomberg has a preview, while the Washington Post looks at how Republicans and Democrats view the attack three years later. Some U.S. cities are getting rid of parking minimums. NPR explains what that might mean for you. And couples therapist Esther Perel offers some relationship advice on Apple News In Conversation.
1/5/20249 minutes, 39 seconds
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New fears of famine in Gaza as war rages

The chief economist of the World Food Program tells the New Yorker how the scarcity of food in Gaza may tip the territory into famine. The Wall Street Journal has what you need to know about unsealed court documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. Predictions from Vox on how political and cultural events might shake out in 2024. And The Guardian explains how a 13-year-old beat Tetris.
1/4/20247 minutes, 54 seconds
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Survivor stories from the heroic Japan Airlines evacuation

All 379 people on board a Japan Airlines flight that caught fire survived. The BBC explains how the crew pulled off a “flawless” evacuation. Federal prisons often attribute detainee deaths to natural causes. The distinction allows them to sidestep autopsies and investigations. NPR has the story. The Athletic reveals how the Professional Women’s Hockey League came together in six months. Humans are changing the moon so much, researchers say we’re in a new lunar epoch. Popular Mechanics has the details.
1/3/20249 minutes, 20 seconds
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The Trump campaign faces its first real test

The Des Moines Register looks at how Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign quietly built a grassroots juggernaut for the Iowa caucuses. Trump is poised to dominate Iowa despite barely campaigning there, according to the Los Angeles Times. With the start of the new year came a wave of news laws. The Guardian rounds up some new rules on gun access, the Houston Chronicle has a list of what Texans can expect, the Wall Street Journal looks at changes coming to 401(k) plans, and the Washington Post warns that Mickey Mouse may never be the same. And finally, as you think about starting a hobby in 2024, Vox explains why it’s OK to be bad at new things.
1/2/20248 minutes
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The U.S. economy is weird, but not in a bad way

In the U.S., GDP, unemployment, and even inflation look a lot like the prepandemic economy. The big changes are beneath the surface. The Wall Street Journal has details. Which country’s economy did best in 2023? The Economist has the surprising answer. Instead of a white Christmas, record warmth is set to blanket the Midwest. The Washington Post explains why Santa may want iced tea instead of hot chocolate this year. The Ringer looks at the 84 sentences that explain 2023.
12/22/202310 minutes, 12 seconds
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Christians in Bethlehem cancel festivities as Gaza war rages

This episode contains a segment about suicide. The Los Angeles Times reports from Bethlehem, the West Bank town revered as Jesus’s birthplace. Christmas there is all but canceled, in solidarity with Palestinians suffering in Gaza. The Trace examines the gun industry’s suicide problem. More men have paid parental leave but many still don’t take a lot of it. The Wall Street Journal discusses the implications for their families and workplaces. The Atlantic looks at what really happens when you return something you bought online.
12/21/202310 minutes, 30 seconds
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Why a Colorado court is blocking Trump from the ballot

Trump has been disqualified from Colorado’s 2024 primary ballot by the state’s Supreme Court. The Washington Post has details. Who are Yemen’s Houthis and why are they attacking ships? CNN explains. The Los Angeles Times investigates the calamitous fall of hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. The Minnesota Reformer has the story of the state’s new flag.
12/20/20239 minutes, 51 seconds
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Israel’s using AI to find Gaza targets. Experts are worried.

This episode contains a segment about pregnancy loss. Israel is using an AI system to find targets in Gaza. Critics see a host of problems. NPR finds out what experts are saying. Allie Phillips was denied an abortion. Now she’s running for office. Elle has the story. The Wall Street Journal reports on how kids are now using slide decks to avoid the holiday dread of unwanted gifts.
12/19/202310 minutes, 13 seconds
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Hostage deaths put new pressure on Netanyahu

The Wall Street Journal reports on how the death of three hostages in Gaza at the hands of IDF soldiers are raising questions about Israel’s war strategy. As the 2024 campaign revs up, a CNN investigation warns that a surge in violent threats against public officials could disrupt the democratic process. NPR reports on data showing that a third of American adults go into debt to pay for holiday shopping. And USA Today has tips on avoiding overspending on gifts.
12/18/20239 minutes, 32 seconds
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Biden under fire over unconditional aid to Israel

Biden is talking tougher about Israel’s tactics in Gaza, but his administration continues to aid its war effort. NBC has the story. ProPublica finds that states across the U.S. require more training to prepare students and teachers for mass shootings than for law enforcement expected to protect them. The differences were clear in Uvalde, where children and officers waited on opposite sides of the door. On In Conversation, an expert recommends interviewing your elders about the life experiences that shaped them and your family.
12/15/202310 minutes, 46 seconds
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Hunger pushes Palestinians trapped in Gaza to the brink

NBC speaks with a child whose life was upended by the war in Gaza about what it’s like to go without food. The Washington Post reports that Puerto Rico’s death toll has surged as the island’s health-care system deteriorates.  Scientific American looks at research showing that domestic cats kill a staggering number of species across the world.
12/14/20239 minutes, 21 seconds
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Why critics say the new global climate deal falls short

A global climate agreement makes an unprecedented call for a transition away from fossil fuels, but with major loopholes. CNN has details. Israel is detaining civilians in Gaza. Many have disappeared, families say. The Washington Post has the story. People are more likely to pick a meat-free option if it's not labeled vegan, a study suggests. Sky News reports.
12/13/202310 minutes, 18 seconds
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What to know about a week of high-stakes abortion cases

Several state-level abortion cases are taking place this week. NPR previews them. The lives of Palestinian journalists reporting from Gaza are at risk as Israeli airstrikes continue. Time speaks to some about the challenges they face. CNN has the story of how a fresh tomato was lost — and found — in space.
12/12/20239 minutes, 3 seconds
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Examining U.S. rhetoric and actions over the war in Gaza

As IDF forces press ahead in southern Gaza, the U.S. has been making moves to support Israel and its military strategy. Reuters reports. Medical studies don’t include enough participants of color, and the imbalance has serious medical consequences. The Wall Street Journal explains how science is working to do better. The Ringer looks at why animation legend Hayao Miyazaki is a hero to so many different corners of culture, and how he finally became a hit in the American market.
12/11/20238 minutes, 40 seconds
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Young activists on what they want from the climate summit

Children at the U.N. climate summit are urging governments to commit to policies that put kids’ needs first. The Guardian tells their stories. Fox Sports has a preview of this weekend’s MLS Cup showdown. This week’s In Conversation is a guide to smarter, more ethical shopping this holiday season.
12/8/202310 minutes, 48 seconds
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Gaza gets even more dangerous for civilians

An Amnesty International investigation claims American-made weapons were used in two Israeli airstrikes that killed 43 civilians in Gaza. CNN reports. NBC News details how Israel’s new grid map of Gaza is adding to the confusion and anger there. NASA may pay $1 billion to destroy the International Space Station. Scientific American explains why. Biden reflects with CNN’s Anderson Cooper on finding solace in grief.
12/7/20239 minutes, 43 seconds
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New details of sexual violence in Hamas’s October 7 attack

The first segment of today’s show contains graphic details about sexual violence. Investigators are looking into new evidence emerging of horrific sexual violence in the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. The Sunday Times has details. The Wall Street Journal examines what a fall in the rate of Black workers being promoted to management says about corporate diversity efforts. The Guardian goes inside the weird and secretive world of creating new flavors of potato chips.
12/6/202311 minutes, 15 seconds
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The horror of babies left behind in a Gaza hospital

The first segment of today’s show contains graphic details about newborns who died in a Gaza hospital. The Washington Post has the story of a nurse in Gaza who was caring for premature babies — then faced the most difficult decision of his life. The Atlantic on why it may never be a good time to buy a house. Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s podcast Wiser Than Me is the winner of the Apple Podcasts Award for Show of the Year. The Wall Street Journal calls it her most personally revealing work yet.
12/5/20239 minutes, 24 seconds
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These Ukrainian teens could help convict Putin on war crimes

The Washington Post interviews Ukrainian teenagers who narrowly escaped Russia, and explains how their testimony could be used to prove Putin committed war crimes.  The BBC reports on how world leaders at the U.N. climate summit are promising to tackle the role of food and agriculture in climate change. And Grist asks historians, economists, and food-policy experts what would happen if everyone on Earth stopped eating meat tomorrow. The Atlantic argues for making more friends outside of your age group. 
12/4/202311 minutes, 57 seconds
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Why Israel detains so many Palestinians

After a seven-day pause, the Washington Post reports that fighting has resumed between Israel and Hamas. Vox explains why so many Palestinians are detained in Israeli prisons, while CNN speaks with some of those who’ve been released as part of the recent hostage deal to learn more about their experiences. The first new legislation in eight decades to regulate chemicals in cosmetics comes into effect this month. Inside Climate News reports on how critics say it doesn’t go far enough, and on how risks from unregulated toxic substances in beauty and personal care products fall disproportionately on Black women.  USA Today explains how a children’s movie inspired an unusual name for a rare atmospheric phenomenon.
12/1/202310 minutes, 21 seconds
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Controversy over holding a climate summit in oil-rich UAE

The Wall Street Journal looks back at the successes and controversies of Henry Kissinger’s long career. The Washington Post reports on criticism of how the oil-rich United Arab Emirates is hosting the United Nation’s global climate summit. Before her death from cancer earlier this month, Casey McIntyre decided to raise money to eliminate other people’s medical debt. Her efforts have wiped out nearly $70 million of it — so far. NPR has the story. The Atlantic explores how TV is spotlighting second-chance romances.
11/30/20239 minutes, 49 seconds
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How Rosalynn Carter changed the mental-health conversation

NPR explores how former first lady Rosalynn Carter fought to put care for mental and physical health on equal footing, and to eliminate discrimination toward people with mental illnesses. Arguments unfold today in a Supreme Court case that could have a transformative impact on government agencies. A law professor shares a viewpoint in the Atlantic. The Los Angeles Times explains how bowling is being turned upside down by technology.
11/29/20239 minutes, 4 seconds
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Why rap lyrics are evidence in the Young Thug trial

Aid agencies welcomed the two-day extension of the truce in Gaza, but voiced concern over what happens next if fighting restarts. The Guardian reports. Prosecutors say rapper Young Thug was the boss of a criminal gang, and are citing lyrics as evidence. Billboard is covering the story. NPR shares a few tips on choosing charities to support on Giving Tuesday.
11/28/20239 minutes, 11 seconds
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Qatar says Israel, Hamas agreed to extend truce for two days

Israel and Hamas agreed to extend a pause in Gaza fighting that had been due to end on Tuesday morning. Bloomberg has the latest. The world wants your kids to buy stuff. Vox has tips on how to help them be less materialistic. U.S. airlines lose 2 million suitcases a year. Some of the missing stuff ends up in an unusual store in Alabama. NPR visits.
11/27/20239 minutes, 17 seconds
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Blackouts in Gaza as Israel continues to block fuel

The world is awash in plastic. Oil producers want a say in how it’s cleaned up. NPR examines the situation. At 22, Erin Matson led UNC to a field-hockey championship. At 23, she’s the coach. The Wall Street Journal has the incredible story.  In Conversation spoke to a former NASA astronaut about what Hollywood gets right and wrong when it comes to stories about space.
11/17/202310 minutes, 59 seconds
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The economy is looking good. Why don’t Americans believe it?

Polls show Americans don’t feel they’re doing well right now, even though economic indicators are strong. The Atlantic explores how that could be a big political problem. A militia killed hundreds of people in Sudan. The Wall Street Journal reports on the situation there. For those who must fly over the holidays, NPR has some tips from a travel expert.
11/16/202310 minutes, 54 seconds
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Biden and Xi are meeting. Here’s what’s on the line.

Biden and Xi are meeting for the first time in a year. NPR has a look at five things to pay attention to. A home-birth midwife faced scrutiny after a baby died. It wasn’t the first time she’d been investigated. The Washington Post has the story. One-star reviews can hurt a restaurant. The Atlantic details how management at one establishment likes to clap back.
11/15/202312 minutes, 29 seconds
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Where Hamas gets its money

NBC investigated the complicated web of funding for Hamas. And the Wall Street Journal explains how the militant group used cryptocurrency to bring in large sums from Iran. Vox reports on why it’s getting increasingly dangerous to be a newborn in the U.S. A rare dinner menu from the Titanic is shedding new light on life on board the doomed vessel. It sold at auction for over $100,000. CNN has more.
11/14/20239 minutes, 28 seconds
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Hospitals fail in Gaza as Israel presses into cities

Hospitals in Gaza are in crisis as Israeli ground troops press further into cities. Reuters is on the story. Less-experienced pilots are being promoted more quickly. The Wall Street Journal looks at why — and why it’s sparking safety concerns. NBC reports on how an endangered egg-laying mammal was seen for the first time in over 60 years.
11/13/202310 minutes, 35 seconds
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Beyond Gaza, violence grows in the West Bank

NPR got perspectives on the war from Palestinians in the West Bank, as attacks there by settlers increase. Michigan’s football team is accused of a sign-stealing scheme. Sports Illustrated is on the story. The Los Angeles Times reports on a tenant who just moved out of an Airbnb after 570 rent-free days. The owner isn’t sure what happened. There’s quite a backstory.
11/10/20239 minutes, 33 seconds
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Americans who just left Gaza describe a region in crisis

An American nurse who just left Gaza describes the desperate situation there in an interview with CNN. Another U.S. citizen who recently departed the strip tells NPR that he worries about family members who are staying behind. The Wall Street Journal looks at how fake pornography depicting real students caused uproar at a New Jersey high school. The National Zoo’s pandas left for China, as an era of rare-animal diplomacy comes to an end. The Washington Post has more.
11/9/202312 minutes, 3 seconds
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What last night’s election results might mean for 2024

ABC has six takeaways from an Election Day with national implications for 2024. Polling shows Biden’s strong backing for Israel is driving a sharp drop in his support from Arab American voters. Time reports. One year before the presidential election, a weakened Biden and a criminally indicted Trump appear to be on a collision course. The Wall Street Journal explains.
11/8/202310 minutes, 10 seconds
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One month on, families of Hamas hostages are still waiting

In an interview with ABC, Netanyahu says there will be no cease-fire without a release of captives in Gaza. It’s Election Day, and there are a ton of races to watch. Politico has a cheat sheet. Earth is getting extra salty, in an “existential threat” to freshwater supplies. Grist has the story.
11/7/202310 minutes, 38 seconds
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Israel defies global pressure over attacks on Gaza

Israeli strikes on Gaza intensified this weekend as global pressure continues to over civilian casualties. Reuters has more. Abortion is on the ballot in Ohio. NPR explains how the results could signal what's ahead for 2024. The dark days following the clock change can disrupt our routines, but there are ways to deal with it. The Wall Street Journal has tips.
11/6/20237 minutes, 59 seconds
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How the U.S. is navigating diplomatic challenges over Gaza

Netanyahu may not last as Israeli prime minister, Biden and aides increasingly believe. Politico examines how the U.S. is navigating the diplomatic challenges of the Israel-Hamas war. In Conversation looks at how facial-recognition technology is upending privacy as we know it. Don’t trash your pumpkins. USA Today reports on greener ways to deal with Halloween leftovers.
11/3/202311 minutes, 9 seconds
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Americans and other civilians trying to escape Gaza

People with foreign passports are slowly being allowed out of Gaza, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies. Reuters has more. The Washington Post reports on the soaring number of guns seized in U.S. schools. After Taylor Swift’s moves to remake her earlier albums, Billboard explains how record companies are trying to keep other artists from doing the same thing.
11/2/20239 minutes, 52 seconds
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War deepens as Israel strikes Gaza refugee camp

Israel hit a densely populated refugee camp in Gaza, killing at least dozens of people. It claims the airstrikes killed a high-level Hamas commander. Reuters has more. BBC reports on how journalists are risking their lives to report on the Israel-Hamas war. Airlines around the world are ripping open jet engines and finding fake parts. Bloomberg investigates. It’s the worst time in decades to buy a house versus renting. The Wall Street Journal explains why.
11/1/20238 minutes, 59 seconds
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Inside the rise in antisemitism on American campuses

Universities, students, and the federal government are concerned about rising antisemitism on U.S. campuses. CBS has the story. The Washington Post is covering a case that seeks to remove Trump from the ballot using the Constitution’s 14th Amendment. Scientific American looks at the science behind why we love horror, from monster movies and haunted houses.
10/31/20239 minutes, 5 seconds
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As Israel expands Gaza assault, cease-fire calls get louder

Reuters has the latest on the Israel-Hamas war, as Israel’s ground invasion expands and calls for a cease-fire grow. The Washington Post reports on the fallout from the war in workplaces across the world.
10/30/20239 minutes, 51 seconds
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What to know about the mass shootings in Maine

The Washington Post has the latest on the mass shootings in Maine and the search for the accused gunman. Meanwhile, the Trace explains how shootings like these fit into America’s larger gun-violence crisis.  The Verge details what happened when Sam Bankman-Fried took the stand for the first time. The Arizona Diamondbacks will take on the Texas Rangers in the World Series tonight. Baseball Prospectus has the story.
10/27/20239 minutes, 20 seconds
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What to know about Mike Johnson, the new House speaker

Bloomberg looks into why Qatar is leading U.S. negotiations with Hamas over hostages. The Washington Post has further details on the energy-rich state’s history as a regional mediator. After three weeks without a speaker, House Republicans finally elected the relatively unknown Mike Johnson of Louisiana. Politico has the story.  Trump was called to testify for the first time in his New York civil-fraud trial and fined $10,000 for violating his gag order again. NBC News has more.
10/26/202311 minutes, 12 seconds
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Gaza health care is collapsing because of the war

The Guardian reports on how Gaza hospitals are ceasing to function as water and fuel run out. Home Depot tracked a shoplifting crime ring and found an unusual suspect. The Wall Street Journal has the story. The Atlantic explains how self-checkout machines failed — and why they’re here to stay.
10/25/20239 minutes, 56 seconds
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How the Middle East has frustrated U.S. presidents

Lots of U.S. presidents have pushed for Middle East peace. NPR shows how progress has been elusive. The Texas Tribune reports on new local laws that aim to restrict travel to access abortion in other states. As the NBA season begins, the Wall Street Journal looks at how many of the league’s top players are old by historical standards.
10/24/20239 minutes, 23 seconds
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The hostage situation inside the Israel-Hamas war

Reuters has the latest on the conflict in the Middle East, as Israel continues to bombard Gaza and the war spreads to other fronts. CNN has the story of how the people of the Osage Nation helped Martin Scorsese make ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ more authentic.
10/23/20238 minutes, 20 seconds
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New developments in the Israel-Hamas war

This week’s In Conversation looks at what a father’s journey to find his son after a bus crash tells us about life in the Palestinian territories. National Geographic examines the suspicious deaths of more than 60 members of Oklahoma’s Osage Nation, the focus of Martin Scorsese’s new film, ‘Killers of the Flower Moon.’ It’s time to put the theory that men evolved to hunt and women to gather out of its misery, argues Scientific American.
10/20/202310 minutes, 13 seconds
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Biden announces deal to let aid into Gaza

Speaking in Tel Aviv, Biden embraced Israel and promised aid to Gaza. The Washington Post has details. New Scientist explains why the Gaza water crisis is decades in the making. More than 100,000 migrants have sought shelter in New York City over the last year or so. Some are pregnant women fleeing violence and poverty. NPR followed the daily lives of three of them.
10/19/202310 minutes, 13 seconds
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What’s known about the deadly blast at a Gaza hospital

The Wall Street Journal lays out key facts about the hospital explosion in Gaza. Hostages are languishing as some in Israel rethink past prisoner swaps, according to Bloomberg.
10/18/20238 minutes, 27 seconds
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Why many Israelis are so angry at Netanyahu

New York reports on the growing chorus of criticism Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced from all corners of Israeli society since the Hamas attack. Biden is heading to Israel at a crucial moment, as the conflict with Hamas escalates and millions of civilians in Gaza face a deep humanitarian crisis. USA Today has more. And Vox breaks down how the U.S. became Israel’s closest ally. Scientists built the largest-ever map of the human brain. NPR explains what they can do with it.
10/17/20239 minutes, 6 seconds
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Gaza conditions worsen as Israel prepares a ground invasion

Reuters reports on how hopes for a cease-fire in southern Gaza were dashed Monday as Israel intensified strikes on the region. Aging U.S. states are offering to help pay the student loans of college graduates who agree to stay. The Hechinger Report has details. Autism silenced this teenager. It couldn’t stop him from creating a symphony. The Los Angeles Times has the story.
10/16/20239 minutes, 20 seconds
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What to know at a critical moment in the Israel-Hamas war

NPR reports on how an overdue reunion became a nightmare, leaving an American family trapped in Gaza. Reuters explains the war-crimes laws that could apply to the conflict between Hamas and Israel. Poynter has tips on how to avoid social-media misinformation about the war.
10/13/202311 minutes, 29 seconds
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Blinken visits Mideast as Israel mobilizes for war

The Atlantic has the story of how one Israeli family survived when Hamas attacked their community. Idaho banned abortion. Then it turned down supports for pregnancies and births. ProPublica investigates. The Wall Street Journal reports on new AI tools that could diagnose Alzheimer’s with visual scans.
10/12/202310 minutes, 39 seconds
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Understanding the history of Gaza and who controls it

NBC provides key context for understanding Gaza. Wired looks into how one AI company is using prison labor to train its models. The Los Angeles Times examines the five sports L.A. organizers want to add to the 2028 Games there.
10/11/202310 minutes, 52 seconds
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Two ways the Israel-Hamas conflict could escalate

The already deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas is in danger of escalating. Reuters is on the story. America’s epidemic of chronic illness is shortening lives. The Washington Post investigates. Researchers have identified genes linked to vegetarianism. NPR explains how the discovery could help explain why some people find it harder to give up meat than others.
10/10/202310 minutes, 16 seconds
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What to know about the Israel-Hamas conflict

Reuters is covering the escalation of the deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas. The Wall Street Journal reports on a fight brewing in Canada about how, or whether, to dig out materials for EV batteries from deep beneath vast peat bogs. Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum smashed the men’s marathon world record in Chicago. NBC Sports has his story.
10/9/20239 minutes, 41 seconds
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Sneak Peek: America loves the AR-15. Here’s how that happened.

In the United States, AR-15s grace bumper stickers, mugs, and politicians’ Christmas cards. They’re also the weapon used in some of the deadliest mass shootings in modern American history. Wall Street Journal reporters Cameron McWhirter and Zusha Elinson trace the rifle’s rise in their new book, American Gun: The True Story of the AR-15. They spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about how this weapon became a symbol of both gun rights and horrific tragedies. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
10/6/20232 minutes, 24 seconds
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Spotlight on the trailblazers hunting for climate solutions

NPR’s Climate Week coverage includes a story about an app taking on food waste and a report on a group of health-care workers who are reducing their industry’s carbon footprint. This week’s In Conversation examines how the AR-15 became the most popular rifle in the U.S. — and what that rise tells us about where we go from here. Vox explains why that $7 latte is $7.
10/6/202311 minutes, 59 seconds
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How one state cut health-care costs after a nasty fight

Indiana employers won a bruising battle to introduce legislation to limit hospital fees. The Wall Street Journal explains how their success is spurring companies in other states to follow suit. The Washington Post examines why thousands of migrants missing in the Mediterranean are never identified, and highlights the activists fighting for change. Fed up with crowds, a Vermont town is banning tourists from visiting its fall foliage. NBC spoke to locals about how a recent influx of influencers led to this.
10/5/202310 minutes, 33 seconds
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What’s next after McCarthy ousted as House speaker

Kevin McCarthy is out as House speaker. The Los Angeles Times explains what we know about what happens next — and what the drama might mean for the prospects of a government shutdown. Meanwhile, Reuters looks at his possible successors. The Supreme Court will weigh whether disability activists can sue hotels after online searches if they don’t plan to visit them. The Washington Post explains the significance of the case. Fat Bear Week, a fun way to learn about nature and conservation, is back. ABC talks to a ranger about why the contest is so popular, and the Washington Post has stats and details about the furry contenders.
10/4/202311 minutes, 11 seconds
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“Learn to code,” they said. Then came AI.

In the age of AI, computer science is no longer the safe major, the Atlantic argues. The FTX trial is bigger than Sam Bankman-Fried, and could be rough for the whole cryptocurrency industry. The Verge explains. The Wall Street Journal looks into new research that finds that the Southern accent is fading away in Georgia.
10/3/20239 minutes, 9 seconds
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Shutdown averted — for now. On to the next battle.

Matt Gaetz is planning a vote to oust Kevin McCarthy after the House speaker made a deal that temporarily averted a government shutdown. The Wall Street Journal has details. USA Today looks at how the Supreme Court could use its new term to alter the way Americans interact on the internet.  CNN breaks down what we know about the man who’s been charged in Tupac Shakur’s 1996 shooting death.
10/2/20239 minutes, 52 seconds
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What a looming government shutdown means for McCarthy

Congress is racing against time to avert a shutdown, with no clear road to a deal. NBC News is on the story. NPR has tips for how borrowers can prepare for the resumption of student-loan payments, after a long pause during the pandemic. Senators are pressing for Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich’s release as he reaches six months in Russian custody. National Geographic looks at the animal-free return of the Ringling Circus.
9/29/20239 minutes, 47 seconds
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Sneak Peek: The secret to finding joy in running

Martinus Evans did not have an easy start to running. Weighing over 300 pounds, he set out to finish a marathon after a doctor told him to “lose weight or die.” He writes about his running journey in his new book, Slow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run. In this week’s episode of Apple News In Conversation, Evans talks with host Shumita Basu about the lessons he’s learned from being a “back-of-the-packer.” Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
9/28/20232 minutes, 26 seconds
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Inside a groundbreaking climate lawsuit

CNN reports on six young people taking 32 countries to court to force them to accelerate climate action. The Atlantic explains how and why Airbnb is so different now. ABC speaks with Frank Rubio, the astronaut who broke the U.S. record for longest period spent in space, as scientists study him to see what such missions do to the body and mind.
9/28/20239 minutes, 41 seconds
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A long-running Olympic doping scandal may finally be settled

Tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians have fled an enclave in Azerbaijan after the country’s military seized the area last week. The BBC explains why humanitarian fears are growing.  A hearing underway in Switzerland is expected to finally settle the figure-skating doping scandal that rocked the Beijing Olympics. NPR has the story.  People runs down bombshell moments from a new documentary series about Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Linda Evangelista. The supermodels also reunite to discuss the show for a Vogue cover story.
9/27/20238 minutes, 57 seconds
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Autoworkers want a four-day workweek. Can they get it?

NPR explains why the president of the United Auto Workers is pushing for a four-day workweek.  CNN reports on how the failure of two dams in Libya resulted in severe flooding and thousands of deaths. CNN also spoke with citizens who say negligence is to blame. Americans can’t afford their pets. It’s pushing animal shelters to the brink. Vox details what’s behind the crisis. The Tasmanian tiger has been extinct for almost 100 years. Popular Mechanics looks at how scientists are trying to return it from the dead.
9/26/20238 minutes, 7 seconds
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A tentative deal to end the writers’ strike

The Writers Guild of America and major studios have reached a tentative deal to end the writers’ strike. The Los Angeles Times has details. USA Today reports on growing calls for Sen. Bob Menendez to resign following his corruption indictment. And Politico has key details from the charges. NASA collected a sample from an asteroid for the first time. The Verge explains why it matters. ESPN covers Megan Rapinoe’s final match for the U.S. women’s national soccer team.
9/25/20238 minutes, 56 seconds
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Reasons why a government shutdown is getting closer

With the risk of a government shutdown growing and time running short, the House speaker faces a number of challenges. The Wall Street Journal explains. And ABC reports on what the looming government shutdown could mean for you. Ahead of her final game for the U.S. women’s national soccer team, ESPN takes a look back at Megan Rapinoe’s 10 best moments. In college football, Sports Illustrated has the story of how new Colorado coach Deion Sanders has transformed both the team and the sport more broadly. On this week’s episode of In Conversation, biographer Walter Isaacson discusses the reach, influence, and limitations of Elon Musk.
9/22/20239 minutes, 23 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Elon Musk’s biographer on two years of shadowing the tech billionaire

Walter Isaacson, author of the new biography Elon Musk, spent two years following the world’s richest man in an effort to understand what drives him. Isaacson joins Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu to explain what he learned about Musk’s reach and power, how his childhood shaped him, and why he has weekly meetings about colonizing Mars. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
9/21/20231 minute, 23 seconds
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Men behind ‘Sound of Freedom’ face misconduct allegations

This episode includes a segment with a description of alleged sexual misconduct. Vice reports that the man whose life story inspired the hit movie ‘Sound of Freedom’ is facing multiple accusations of sexual misconduct. An executive producer of the movie is facing other allegations. The Washington Post reports on how Washington, D.C., is coping with a sharp rise in crime. As dual strikes grip Hollywood and shut down productions of scripted programs, the new fall season’s network schedules are leaning heavily on reality and game shows. The Wall Street Journal has a guide.
9/21/20239 minutes, 55 seconds
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The three big threats to the U.S. economy

There are three major threats facing the U.S. economy — and they’re beyond the Federal Reserve’s control. Reuters has more. On Monday Illinois became the first state to eliminate cash bail. WBEZ reports on how it’s going so far. Baby boomers are aging. Their kids aren’t ready. Vox explains the unfolding senior-care crisis. Around 2,000 years ago, Indigenous people in Ohio built a “masterpiece of human creative genius” that’s now been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. NPR has the story.
9/20/202311 minutes, 34 seconds
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Ukraine’s president visits America to push for more aid

In an interview with CBS, Zelenskyy makes the case for additional American aid to Ukraine. The Wall Street Journal looks into why more baby boomers are becoming homeless. NPR explains the surprisingly complex science of baby babble.
9/19/20239 minutes, 13 seconds
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How extreme heat drives deadly flooding

The Washington Post explains the potential role of global warming in the latest deadly flooding. The biggest sports-gambling season ever is kicking off. Vox looks into whether states are ready for the consequences. Celebrities are auctioning off quirky items to raise money for people who are out of work because of the writers’ and actors’ strikes. NBC has details.
9/18/20239 minutes, 38 seconds
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Iran’s protest movement, a year after Mahsa Amini’s death

The Washington Post reports on Iran’s crackdown on women’s rights activists ahead of the one-year mark of Mahsa Amini’s death in police custody. In Conversation looks at why so many American kids are struggling to learn how to read — and how to fix it. GQ talks to the guy in charge of cleaning up Burning Man.
9/15/20239 minutes, 25 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Why so many American kids are struggling to learn how to read — and how to fix that

America has long struggled with how best to teach kids to read. But a new approach, called the science of reading, is gaining steam — and it’s proving successful. At the same time, many classrooms haven’t caught up to it, and some students are being left behind. In the latest episode of Apple News In Conversation, host Shumita Basu talks to Karen D’Souza, a reporter for EdSource, about how our understanding of literacy has evolved over time, and what educators, parents, and lawmakers are doing to better prepare young readers. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
9/14/20233 minutes, 16 seconds
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Why striking writers are so mad at Drew Barrymore

Entertainment Weekly explains the union backlash over Drew Barrymore resuming her talk show during the strike. An FDA panel says an ingredient in popular cold medicines doesn’t actually work. The Wall Street Journal has details. The BBC has the story of how a stolen Van Gogh was handed over to a Dutch art detective — in a blue Ikea bag.
9/14/20238 minutes, 37 seconds
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Why Libya’s floods have been so deadly

More than 5,000 people have died in Libya’s catastrophic flooding, and 10,000 are believed missing. The Washington Post details how weak infrastructure and an unusual storm contributed to the huge death toll. California pharmacies are making millions of mistakes. They’re fighting to keep that a secret. The Los Angeles Times investigates. Vox explains how adult birthday parties turned into weeklong blowouts.
9/13/202310 minutes, 29 seconds
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Why tens of thousands of auto workers could strike this week

Ahead of this week’s strike deadline, United Auto Workers called a GM counteroffer “insulting.” USA Today looks into how negotiations are going between the union and the three major U.S. automakers. KFF Health News reports on what experts think about the new COVID booster shots. And Time breaks down all the shots available in the months ahead, including protection against RSV. Can artificial intelligence allow us to speak to another species? The New Yorker speaks to researchers who are asking the question.
9/12/20239 minutes, 42 seconds
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What we know about Morocco’s deadly earthquake

CNN reports on how some Moroccan earthquake survivors are still fending for themselves in the Atlas Mountains. The Washington Post looks into how climate change is creating new health crises around the world. Biden rejected proposed conditions for a plea deal for 9/11 defendants. Victims’ families have been waiting for a trial for more than 20 years as the case moves slowly through the court system. ABC has more.
9/11/20239 minutes, 22 seconds
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Why the U.S. child-care situation is about to get even worse

CBS reports on why a wave of child-care-center closures is expected as pandemic stimulus funds dry up. India’s government referred to the country as “Bharat” in an official G20 invitation to a dinner in New Delhi. Critics say it’s a move by Hindu nationalists to exclude other faiths. Time explains. Couples are spending hundreds of dollars an hour to hire their college mascots for weddings. The Wall Street Journal talked to mascots about the challenges of dancing for hours in a giant bird, beaver, or frog costume.
9/8/20238 minutes, 46 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Her family had always kept her aunt a secret. She set out to uncover the truth.

Growing up, Jennifer Senior thought her mom was an only child. But when she was 12 years old, she learned her mom had a sister, named Adele, who was institutionalized as a baby. Adele had spent almost her entire life separated from her family. Decades later, in 2021, Senior reconnected with her aunt and uncovered the dark history of institutionalizing children with intellectual disabilities. Senior wrote about her aunt’s story in the Atlantic and spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about her experience. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
9/7/20232 minutes
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How Trump’s trials may crash the 2024 primary schedule

Prosecutors predicted that a trial in the Georgia election case will last four months. The timeline would force Trump to spend a third of a year sitting in an Atlanta courtroom, possibly while also running for president and juggling three other criminal cases. The Washington Post has more. ESPN has everything you need to know ahead of the 2023 NFL regular season, including how the teams rank before Week 1. Bloomberg explains why the Caribbean island of Anguilla is expected to make millions this year from a surge in demand for web addresses ending with .ai.
9/7/20239 minutes, 4 seconds
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Why schools are facing a teen drug crisis like no other

NPR looks into schools’ struggle to deal with an alarming increase in teenagers overdosing on fentanyl. Several major festivals have faced serious disruptions recently. The Washington Post looks into why. Coco Gauff is the first American teenager to reach the U.S. Open semifinals since Serena Williams. Reuters has more. And the Wall Street Journal reports on how stars of tennis are carving out time to study the moves of Carlos Alcaraz.
9/6/202310 minutes, 11 seconds
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Big new developments in the war in Ukraine

U.S. officials say Ukraine’s southern counteroffensive has seen “notable” progress. CBS reports. The Dallas Morning News details how Texas attorney general Ken Paxton’s legal issues stretch far beyond his impeachment trial. USA Today explains why wild flamingos have appeared in so many U.S. states in recent days.
9/5/20238 minutes, 45 seconds
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How the world is preparing for a possible second Trump term

U.S. allies and adversaries around the world are preparing for a possible second Trump presidency. The Wall Street Journal has the story. A Reuters investigation found that at Taser maker Axon, former staffers say loyalty meant being tased and tattooed. CNN explains why this college-football season could be the last of its kind.
9/1/20239 minutes, 16 seconds
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After Idalia, fears of disaster-relief money running out

Rebuilding after catastrophes like Idalia is dependent on the federal government’s Disaster Relief Fund. But the program could run out of money this fall if Congress can’t agree on how to replenish it. Inside Climate News has the story. Tourists were initially urged to stay away from Maui after the island’s devastating wildfires. Now some in the community want visitors to return. The Los Angeles Times spoke with locals. More people are discovering Swedish death cleaning, which encourages them to rethink their possessions while alive so as not to burden loved ones after they’re gone. The Washington Post explains.
8/31/202311 minutes, 38 seconds
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What’s especially dangerous about Hurricane Idalia

Fox Weather is tracking Hurricane Idalia’s impact on Florida and other Southeast states. Families of troops killed in the Kabul airport bombing as the U.S. pulled out of Afghanistan were on Capitol Hill calling for accountability. CNN has the story. And the Atlantic has a book excerpt with the inside story of how Biden and his team handled the withdrawal. Federal student loans are emerging from a pandemic deep freeze, and borrowers are confused. The Wall Street Journal breaks things down. A rare “super blue moon” will be visible tonight. USA Today explains what that means.
8/30/20239 minutes, 52 seconds
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More young women have breast cancer. Experts don’t know why.

Breast cancer is increasing among young women. But there’s little advice for that group regarding early detection. The Washington Post has more. NBC reports on how Jacksonville is grappling with its legacy of racist violence after the deadly shooting. AFP explains why France and the E.U. are setting aside $216 million to destroy wine.
8/29/20238 minutes, 34 seconds
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How contaminated eye drops killed four Americans

An emergency meeting will take place today over the head of the Spanish soccer federation forcibly kissing player Jenni Hermoso following the team’s World Cup victory. Reuters has the story. Bloomberg Businessweek investigates how eye drops tainted with an antibiotic-resistant superbug slipped past the FDA, blinding and even killing Americans.  NPR explains why a stranger’s hello can do more than just brighten your day.
8/28/20238 minutes, 26 seconds
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Guns are the leading killer of U.S. children

Guns killed a record number of U.S. children in 2021. The Washington Post reports on a sobering new analysis of CDC data.  Taylor Twellman, lead announcer of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV and the host of Offside with Taylor Twellman, previews Lionel Messi’s Major League Soccer debut this weekend.  In this week’s episode of In Conversation, CNN host Anderson Cooper shares his struggle to process the deaths of his parents and sibling — and his newfound appreciation for feeling your feelings.
8/25/202310 minutes, 6 seconds
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Sneak Peek: What losing family taught Anderson Cooper about grief and gratitude

Anderson Cooper is now the only living member of the family he grew up with. When he was 10 years old, his father died of a heart attack. His brother died by suicide about a decade later. And in 2019, his mother died at the age of 95. It’s only recently that Cooper has been able to talk about and process these deaths. For Apple News In Conversation’s Think Again series, he spoke with host Shumita Basu about what he’s learned by talking to people about death and grief on his podcast, All There Is — and the advice he has for those who are struggling with loss. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
8/24/20232 minutes, 19 seconds
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How Trump’s no-show defined the first GOP primary debate

Eight Republican candidates for president gathered in Milwaukee for the first 2024 debate. The Washington Post has key takeaways from the event, while CNN fact-checks the candidates’ onstage statements. A key part of the White House’s strategy for the U.S.-Mexico border is about to go on trial. NPR has the story. The Wall Street Journal explains how Kroger became the biggest sushi seller in America.
8/24/202310 minutes, 27 seconds
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Why Trump is center stage at a debate he’s skipping

With Trump planning to skip the first Republican presidential debate tonight in Milwaukee, his rivals are hoping to seize the spotlight. The Washington Post looks at their preparations. The Republican focus on Milwaukee shows that Wisconsin will be a critical state again in 2024. NPR explains why. A key witness in the Mar-a-Lago documents case changed his testimony to implicate Trump, after dropping a lawyer paid for by the former president’s PAC. Axios has more. Colleges have been on a spending spree over the past 20 years, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis of records — and students are paying the bill.
8/23/202311 minutes, 7 seconds
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Why it’s so hard to find a primary-care doctor these days

This episode includes an audio segment that contains discussion of sexual violence. On today’s show:  Saudi border guards regularly kill African men, women, and children trying to cross the border from Yemen, according to Human Rights Watch. Its report says hundreds are known to have died in the last year and a half. The Guardian has more. Fewer Americans rely on a primary-care physician than in previous generations. Vox explores the decline of the family doctor. Parmigiano-Reggiano producers are adding edible microchips to their cheese wheels to beat counterfeiters. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
8/22/20239 minutes, 38 seconds
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Tropical Storm Hilary batters Southern California

Tropical Storm Hilary has caused flooding, downed trees, and power outages in California. The Los Angeles Times has the story. By turning out in groups, women created a multiplier effect and propelled watershed success for the ‘Barbie’ movie, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift, the Wall Street Journal explains. In its final episode, After the Whistle reflects on the cinematic finish to the World Cup.
8/21/20239 minutes, 27 seconds
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Deadly wildfires have Hawaiian Electric under scrutiny

Utility company Hawaiian Electric knew about wildfire risks for years but made little progress in making its equipment safer. The Wall Street Journal investigates. The average 30-year mortgage rate rose above 7% to its highest level in more than two decades, adding to housing costs as buyers compete over a limited number of properties for sale. Barron’s has details. This weekend features the final of the World Cup. The Ringer has a preview. And ESPN looks ahead to the Leagues Cup final, which will feature Messi.
8/18/20239 minutes, 1 second
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Sneak Peek: Why people lose themselves in parenthood — and how to reclaim your sense of self

You’ve prepped the nursery, read all the books, and are eagerly waiting to meet the new member of your family. But are you also ready to meet the new version of yourself? For Apple News In Conversation’s “Think Again” series, host Shumita Basu talks to Jessica Grose, author of Screaming on the Inside: The Unsustainability of American Motherhood, about the ways parenthood can change you, the lack of societal support for this seismic life shift, and how reconnecting with your sense of self can help you navigate it. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
8/17/20232 minutes, 50 seconds
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Hawaii residents fear developer land grab following fires

Lahaina already suffered from a dire housing crisis before the fires. Now Maui residents are worried they may lose the city, the Washington Post reports. Meanwhile, Honolulu Civil Beat lists places where you can donate to the relief effort. ProPublica investigates how social media could be fueling homicides among young Americans. Why is part of the Pacific Ocean cooling instead of warming? It’s a puzzle with big implications for climate science. New Scientist delves into the issue.
8/17/20239 minutes, 46 seconds
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How the Georgia indictment could be Trump’s biggest threat

The Miami Herald speaks with legal experts who believe Trump’s latest set of criminal charges could present the greatest legal threat to his freedom. Women in Afghanistan tell CNN about how two years of Taliban rule has eroded their freedoms. Activists are targeting workplace diversity initiatives following the Supreme Court’s decision to eliminate affirmative action in college admissions. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
8/16/20239 minutes, 43 seconds
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Explaining the new charges Trump faces in Georgia

Trump and several advisers have been indicted in Georgia, accused of trying to overturn his 2020 election loss. Reuters explains the charges, and the RICO law prosecutors are using. A judge sided with young Montanans in a climate-change trial, finding two of the state’s laws unconstitutional. The Daily Montanan has more. The Washington Post explains what’s killing Florida’s coral reefs — and why you should care.
8/15/20238 minutes, 12 seconds
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The long, difficult road to recovery in Hawaii

The cleanup of toxic materials in Maui may go on for months, and rebuilding could take years. Hawaii Public Radio has more. Most of the fentanyl flowing into the U.S. is brought by people legally authorized to cross from Mexico, not migrants seeking asylum. NPR reports. Bakeries are learning that the most delicious pastry is sometimes the one their customers can’t have. The Wall Street Journal explains “croissant theory.”
8/14/20238 minutes, 42 seconds
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Major new revelations about lavish gifts to Clarence Thomas

A new ProPublica investigation shows how Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has secretly reaped the benefits from a network of wealthy and well-connected patrons that is far more extensive than previously understood. Experts don’t agree on whether to intervene to try to save California’s iconic sequoia trees, which have been devastated by wildfires. The San Francisco Chronicle has the story. On the 50th birthday of hip-hop, the L.A. Times chooses its 50 greatest moments.
8/11/202310 minutes, 31 seconds
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Sneak Peek: The most confusing years of your life — and strategies to get through them

Early adulthood can be a particularly confusing and unsettling phase of life. You’re figuring out how to get a job, pay rent, and plan meals. At the same time, you’re also determining your values and the kind of person you want to be. It can feel like being pulled down two completely opposite life paths. In the latest episode of Apple News In Conversation’s Think Again series, host Shumita Basu talks to psychotherapist Satya Doyle Byock about how to balance the tugs of purpose and survival during the period she calls “quarterlife.” She’s even written a book on it. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
8/10/20232 minutes, 27 seconds
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How Hawaii’s wildfires got so bad, so fast

The San Francisco Chronicle explains how the Hawaii fires got started, and why they became so extreme, so quickly. FEMA doesn’t respond to heat waves. Grist unpacks the bureaucratic reasons why. Special Counsel Jack Smith has taken on tough cases before, and hasn’t always won. The Wall Street Journal looks at the Trump prosecutor’s record. You may have heard that America’s honeybees are dying. The Ringer details what it means for the people on the front lines and the food in your kitchen.
8/10/20238 minutes, 58 seconds
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Why college applications are so tricky this year

Colleges are making changes to the admissions process after the Supreme Court’s decision on affirmative action. The Wall Street Journal spoke to students who are being forced to adapt on the fly. Domestic violence has soared in Ukraine. It’s another way Russia’s war is taking its toll on civilians. Reuters investigates. Animal actors are on strike too. The Washington Post tells their stories.
8/9/202310 minutes, 6 seconds
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Why your home-insurance costs keep rising

Home insurers are covering less and charging more as they try to claw their way back to profitability in a time of severe weather, the Wall Street Journal reports. Is America headed for another COVID surge? Apple News has a special collection of coverage on what to know about worrying increases in cases and hospitalizations. Did plastic-straw bans work? Yes, the Grist argues, but not exactly how you might think.
8/8/20239 minutes, 44 seconds
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What’s next for the U.S. after a crushing World Cup loss

Sweden eliminated the U.S. from the World Cup. American soccer legend Michelle Akers breaks down the heartbreaking loss on After the Whistle. People in New Mexico who lived near the 1945 atomic-bomb test depicted in ‘Oppenheimer’ want compensation for health issues. The Washington Post reports. CNN spoke with a man who completed his dream of visiting every country in the world without flying.
8/7/20239 minutes, 28 seconds
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Why AI is a major sticking point in the Hollywood strikes

The Wall Street Journal reports on how the dispute over artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry is much bigger than the standoff between Hollywood studios and striking writers and actors. A lifesaving HIV program faces a new threat: U.S. abortion politics. The Washington Post has the story. After the Whistle looks at what the U.S. needs to do to beat Sweden after a rocky start to the World Cup. Your brain is hardwired to resist change. In Conversation explores how to get better at it.
8/4/202310 minutes, 46 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Your brain is hardwired to resist change. Here’s how to get better at it.

Transitions can feel intimidating and destabilizing. But these moments can also be opportunities for growth, reflection, and self-discovery — especially when you have the right tools. In the first episode of Apple News In Conversation’s monthlong “Think Again” series, host Shumita Basu talks to Hidden Brain’s Shankar Vedantam about why pivot points can feel so challenging and how to embrace them as opportunities, rather than obstacles. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
8/3/20232 minutes, 49 seconds
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How Trump’s latest charges could change the presidency

Trump’s first two indictments could land him in prison, but his latest could change the presidency. The Miami Herald explains how. The Washington Post details how one of the new charges is being made under an 1870 civil-rights law used to prosecute Ku Klux Klan violence. And Reuters reports on what we know about Trump’s six alleged coconspirators. The Federal Reserve and markets are expecting a soft landing for the U.S. economy as it emerges from the pandemic. Barron’s explains how coming days will test that optimism. An 18-year-old soccer player who survived cancer is now the World Cup’s rising star. NPR profiles Colombia’s Linda Caicedo.
8/3/20237 minutes, 56 seconds
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Explaining the latest criminal charges against Trump

The Washington Post details the four new criminal charges against Trump and what they mean. Tens of thousands of Ukrainians have lost limbs since the start of the war, a toll not seen in conflicts in the West in decades. The Wall Street Journal reports. NPR explains why it’s so important to figure out when a vital Atlantic Ocean current might collapse. Bloomberg Green rounds up some recent good news about the planet.
8/2/20238 minutes, 40 seconds
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Why decriminalization hasn’t solved Oregon’s drug problems

The Atlantic reports on how Oregon’s bold experiment with decriminalizing hard drugs is not going as planned. An Afghan teenager made it to the U.S., but his family was left behind in Kabul. NPR tells his story. Teen Vogue looks into the recent trend of people throwing stuff at concert performers.
8/1/20239 minutes, 31 seconds
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Why “record-breaking heat” isn’t always what it seems

Temperature records are being broken around the world, but those records aren’t equally meaningful. Vox explains why it’s important to have context. The Wall Street Journal reports on how waves of new migrant arrivals have sparked a housing fight in New York. Is the U.S. in trouble at the Women’s World Cup? Former USWNT coach Jill Ellis weighs in on After the Whistle.
7/31/20238 minutes, 43 seconds
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Tell your boss! Data shows four-day workweeks work

In Conversation looks at the dangers of extreme heat — for our health and our planet. USA Today investigates cases where someone kills their entire family, and efforts to prevent this kind of violence. The Wall Street Journal reports on an experiment with a four-day workweek that shows how jobs can often get done more efficiently in less time.
7/28/20239 minutes, 28 seconds
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Sneak Peek: The dangers of extreme heat — for our health and our planet

July is on track to be the hottest month ever recorded on Earth. Millions of people in the U.S. are living in areas with dangerous levels of heat — and a growing death toll. In a new book, The Heat Will Kill You First, reporter Jeff Goodell warns that heat is pushing us into a new climate era, with dire implications for individuals, society, and our planet. Goodell spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about the changes we need to make today and the reasons he still has hope for the future. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
7/27/20232 minutes, 22 seconds
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What extreme heat feels like in America’s prisons

Extreme heat has extreme effects in prisons, which often have poor or no air conditioning. The Marshall Project takes a deep look at the issue, while PBS Newshour speaks to incarcerated people about struggling with unrelenting temperatures. Contractors in Kenya say they were traumatized by doing work to screen out violent and abusive content for OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The Wall Street Journal investigates. With a year to go to the Olympics, Paris is in the final phase of a historic clean-up that will soon see swimmers back in the Seine. Time got an inside look at the massive project.
7/27/20239 minutes, 44 seconds
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Why elite-college admissions affect everyone

The Atlantic looks at research on the powerful impact of attending elite universities, and suggests how to change admission policies to broaden opportunity. The Ohio Capital Journal reports on a new poll showing a majority of Ohioans favor an amendment protecting abortion rights, ahead of an election that could have national implications. After the Whistle has a recap of the most unexpected moments of the Women’s World Cup so far and a preview of the U.S.’s next match.
7/26/202310 minutes, 13 seconds
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A family’s struggles to reunite after a border separation

Years after a border separation, a family’s reunion was in a judge’s hands. The Washington Post tells the story. NPR explains why it’s so hard to turn empty office buildings into much-needed housing. The Wall Street Journal reports on how dying malls are stirring up nostalgia — and eager bidders for the decor.
7/25/202310 minutes, 17 seconds
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The fight over Israel’s plans to limit its Supreme Court

The Wall Street Journal reports on why some ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel are allying with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his plans to limit the Supreme Court, which have triggered mass protests.  After more than a century, the American buffalo returned to its original habitat on Native tribal lands. National Geographic has the story —  and images.  After the Whistle breaks down a clunky, frustrating opening performance from the U.S. Women’s National Team at the World Cup.
7/24/202310 minutes, 24 seconds
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Women suing Texas over abortion bans give dramatic testimony

Women who had complicated pregnancies are suing Texas over its abortion bans. NPR reports on the emotional testimony some of them gave in a hushed Austin courtroom this week.  Student journalists are breaking major national stories. Meet the reporter whose work for the Stanford Daily led to the resignation of the university’s president.  One of the biggest voices in soccer, After the Whistle cohost and NBC Sports presenter Rebecca Lowe, gives her predictions for the Women’s World Cup — and her take on Messi joining MLS. Hear her full conversation with Shumita in this week’s Apple News In Conversation
7/21/202311 minutes, 17 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Rebecca Lowe can’t believe how far women’s soccer has come

The Women’s World Cup is underway. With 32 nations fielding teams, it’s the biggest tournament yet. Rebecca Lowe, host of Apple News’s unofficial World Cup podcast, After the Whistle, and NBC Sports’ Premier League coverage, offers her predictions and reflects on the success and incredible growth of women’s soccer over her lifetime. Plus, she gives her take on Lionel Messi’s move to Major League Soccer. Below are excepts from her interview with Shumita Basu. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
7/20/20232 minutes, 34 seconds
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The Women’s World Cup is back. Can the U.S. win again?

After the Whistle is back for the Women’s World Cup, which kicks off today. Hosts Brendan Hunt, who plays Coach Beard on ‘Ted Lasso,’ and Rebecca Lowe, presenter for NBC Sports, have a primer on all 32 squads competing, from A to (New) Z.  After a year of botched executions, Alabama is eager to prove it can kill someone without incident. The Atlantic has the story.  The New Yorker argues that Netflix’s ‘Orange Is the New Black’ signaled the rot inside in the streaming economy.
7/20/202312 minutes, 43 seconds
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The latest in the federal January 6 investigation into Trump

Federal prosecutors told Trump’s legal team that he is a target of their investigation into efforts to undo his 2020 election loss, the Wall Street Journal reports. As Earth records some of its highest average temperatures, U.S. workers have barely any legal protections from extreme heat, according to the Washington Post.  New York’s shark-infested waters are a good thing. Yes, really. Vox explains why.
7/19/202310 minutes, 31 seconds
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What to know about the judge in the Trump documents case

The first pretrial hearing in the Trump documents case takes place today. The Washington Post has a preview, while Vox takes a closer look at Judge Aileen Cannon, the Trump appointee assigned to oversee the trial. In a major investigation, the San Francisco Chronicle traced the dealers selling drugs in the city’s open-air markets back to one of the poorest areas of Honduras.  Vanity Fair breaks down why Hollywood has so much riding on the box-office battle between ‘Barbie’ and ‘Oppenheimer.
7/18/20239 minutes, 49 seconds
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As U.S. and China face extreme heat, climate talks restart

The U.S. and China have restarted climate negotiations. Both countries are currently suffering from extreme heat. CNN has more.  This past weekend marked three months of civil war in Sudan. Channel 4 spoke to victims who fled.  Some schools have dropped race from consideration for scholarships following the Supreme Court decision on affirmative action, according to the Wall Street Journal. Carlos Alcaraz defeated Novak Djokovic to win his first Wimbledon title on Sunday. ESPN has the story.
7/17/20238 minutes, 27 seconds
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Making sense of a week of dangerous extreme weather

The Washington Post explains how floods, fires, and deadly heat are the alarm bells of a planet on the brink. If UPS and workers can’t make a deal, the U.S. could be in for a strike with devastating economic impact. Businesses that rely on shipping are working on backup plans. NBC News explains.  Tom Hanks sits down with In Conversation to discuss his new book, a love letter to the many people needed to make movies possible, especially those behind the scenes.
7/14/20239 minutes, 34 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Tom Hanks on what it takes to make a movie

Tom Hanks has learned a thing or two about moviemaking during his decades-long career. Ultimately, he says, it’s not about one person’s vision or direction; it’s about the countless people behind the camera — and a few in front of it — who make a movie possible. That’s the foundational idea behind his debut novel, The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece. Hanks spoke to Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu before SAG-AFTRA, the union that represents actors, decided to strike. But his book and their conversation are a reminder of all that goes into creating the entertainment many of us take for granted. Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts.
7/13/20232 minutes, 23 seconds
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Why actors are preparing to join writers in Hollywood strike

Studios and the actors union failed to reach a deal before a contract deadline, meaning performers may join writers on the picket lines. Variety has the latest, and Vox has context on how changes driven by streaming helped cause the writers’ strike. A Wall Street Journal investigation found that the U.S. is wrapped in miles of toxic lead cables, left by telecom giants. Yahoo Sports has all you need to know about the U.S. women’s soccer team’s bid to win a third straight World Cup title. And, ahead of the tournament, be sure to follow our World Cup podcast, After the Whistle.
7/13/202310 minutes, 30 seconds
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Vermont, hit by catastrophic flooding, braces for more

Vermont is dealing with catastrophic flooding — and bracing for more. Reuters has details on the situation. And Vox explains why we’re seeing more extreme flooding around the world. Scientists say this lake proves that human damage to the environment triggered a new chapter in geologic time: the Anthropocene. The Washington Post reports. The northern lights probably won’t be visible across as large a stretch of the U.S. as an early forecast indicated. NBC explains why.
7/12/20239 minutes, 16 seconds
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Why a GOP senator is blocking the U.S. military

The Marines’ top general has stepped down as leader with no Senate-confirmed successor in place. A Republican senator is blocking military promotions to protest abortion policy. Politico has the story. If signed into law as expected, Iowa’s proposed abortion ban is likely to face a long legal battle. KCCI reports. He served the U.S. Army in Afghanistan. He was killed driving for Lyft in D.C. The Washington Post tells his story. Smithsonian explains how climate change is making home runs easier to hit.
7/11/20239 minutes, 45 seconds
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What your burger has to do with climate change

Vox argues that the media needs to better explain the connection between climate change and meat and dairy production. The Washington Post explains why berberine, a trendy weight-loss supplement popular on TikTok, is not “nature’s Ozempic.” The Apple News soccer podcast After the Whistle is returning for the Women’s World Cup.
7/10/20238 minutes, 20 seconds
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The promise, and risk, of a new Alzheimer’s drug

The FDA granted full approval to a new Alzheimer’s drug meant to slow the disease. There are some risks to the treatment. NBC News has the story. The Washington Post looks at why many ultraprocessed foods are unhealthy. The extreme heat is making squirrels and other creatures “sploot.” NPR explains how it’s a sign that animals are struggling with climate change.
7/7/20239 minutes, 56 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Playing Dwight on ‘The Office’ didn’t make Rainn Wilson happy. Here’s how he’s seeking real joy.

Rainn Wilson understands why so many people are rejecting religion today. But he argues that the core aspects of faith still have something important to offer us. Spirituality has brought him community, purpose, and levity — even as he’s struggled with depression, anxiety, and addiction. The actor explores these themes in his new book, Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution, and TV show, Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss. Wilson shared what he's learned with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu. This is a preview of their conversation.
7/6/20232 minutes, 15 seconds
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Cancer drugs keep running out. Here’s why.

The Atlantic examines how economic issues are making critical cancer drugs hard to find. The push to tie Medicaid to work is making a comeback. Georgia is at the forefront. The Washington Post has the story. Amy Olson is playing in the U.S. Women’s Open while seven months pregnant. The Wall Street Journal looks at how she’s doing it.
7/6/20239 minutes, 52 seconds
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Why the U.S. military is facing a recruitment crisis

The Wall Street Journal explains why many U.S. veterans don’t want their kids to join the military. After decades as rivals and friends, tennis greats Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova found themselves more intertwined than ever as they each struggled with cancer. The Washington Post tells the story of their long friendship. CNN reports on a flying-car prototype that just got a key certification from the FAA.
7/5/20238 minutes, 21 seconds
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Workplace impact of SCOTUS’s affirmative-action ruling

Bloomberg Businessweek looks into how the Supreme Court’s ruling on affirmative action in university admissions could also impact the workplace. USA Today investigates an ambulance-access crisis affecting millions of Americans. Universities in Connecticut began offering classes to incarcerated people a few years ago. The program’s first class of graduates just walked across the stage at commencement. CT Insider has the story.
6/30/202311 minutes, 11 seconds
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Supreme Court rules against affirmative action

The Supreme Court ruled that it was unconstitutional to consider race in university admissions, upending decades of precedent involving affirmative action. The Los Angeles Times has details. Survivors of the recent migrant shipwreck near Greece told CNN that the coast guard attempted to tow the vessel when it capsized. The comments contradict the Greek authorities’ version of events. Reparations for Black Californians face an uphill climb in the state legislature. The Wall Street Journal has the story. A linguist writes in the Conversation about a new English dialect emerging in South Florida.
6/29/202312 minutes, 24 seconds
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The human stories from the deadly migrant shipwreck

The Washington Post tells the story of how as many as 750 migrants boarded a fishing trawler and ended up in one of the Mediterranean’s deadliest shipwrecks. Reuters reports on the relentless heat wave scorching Texas and neighboring states, and the deterioration of air quality over the Midwest as Canadian wildfire smoke lingers. The Wall Street Journal explains why everyone in South Korea is a year or two younger today.
6/28/20238 minutes, 36 seconds
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Taped evidence in Trump secret-documents case goes public

CNN has the tape of Trump’s 2021 conversation about classified documents, an important piece of evidence in the federal case against him. Remote school during the pandemic was devastating for many kids. The New Yorker looks at how one school system is attempting to make up for lost ground by experimenting with its calendar. Netflix’s crackdown on password sharing has forced some people to have pretty awkward conversations with freeloading family and friends. The Wall Street Journal has the story. 
6/27/20239 minutes, 35 seconds
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Where Putin’s power stands after a weekend of revolt

The Wall Street Journal looks at the big questions that remain about Putin’s control over Russia after Wagner troops briefly rebelled. Some Western officials wonder whether the drama is truly over. A federal judge struck down a ban on gender-affirming health care for transgender youth in Arkansas. It’s an important case that could have national implications. The Arkansas Advocate has the story. Research indicates lobsters likely feel pain. Should we get them high before cooking them? National Geographic spoke to a chef who says yes.
6/26/202310 minutes, 28 seconds
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Lessons from a state that already banned affirmative action

NPR reports on how ending affirmative action changed California. Nearly a year later, most Americans oppose the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. NPR looks at survey data. The Wall Street Journal explains how TikTok is upending how companies create and market new products.
6/23/202311 minutes, 17 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Enduring advice for this year’s graduating class (and nongraduates too).

At their worst, graduation speeches are boring, trite, and pedantic. But at their best, they’re touching meditations on what it means to live a purposeful, fulfilling life. On this week’s episode of Apple News In Conversation, host Shumita Basu speaks with commencement-speech connoisseur Cristina Negrut, who has read hundreds of speeches and cataloged many on the website Best Graduation Speeches. This is a preview of their conversation.
6/22/20232 minutes, 16 seconds
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Justice Alito under fire for gifts from GOP billionaire

A ProPublica investigation finds that Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito took an undisclosed luxury vacation with a Republican megadonor who later had multiple cases before the court. Artificial intelligence is raising difficult questions in health-care settings about who makes the final call in a crisis: the human or the machine. The Wall Street Journal has more. ESPN breaks down the roster of the U.S. Women’s National Team as it prepares to compete for the World Cup.
6/22/20239 minutes, 46 seconds
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New hope as the Titanic-sub search hits a critical phase

Searchers detect underwater noises in the hunt for the missing tourist submersible on a Titanic expedition. CBS News has more. Reuters reports on the suspected human traffickers detained pending trial over the deadly migrant shipwreck off of Greece. Hunter Biden reached a deal with prosecutors on cases involving taxes and a gun purchase. The Washington Post has details. Cases involving slavery are still cited as good law across the U.S. NPR reports on the effort to change that. Every generation thinks people were nicer in the past. Vox introduces us to researchers who have evidence to the contrary.
6/21/20239 minutes, 40 seconds
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The search for a missing tourist vessel near Titanic wreck

NPR reports on how some crucial cancer drugs are in short supply, putting patients’ care at risk. Gen Z has had cosmetic work done. They’re happy to tell you all about it. The Washington Post explains. Satellites keep photobombing space images. Astronomers need to find a fix. Wired has more.
6/20/20238 minutes, 46 seconds
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Failures to stop a deadly threat to cars from 18-wheelers

ProPublica and Frontline investigate decades of government failure to prevent deadly crashes between cars and commercial trucks. The Nile is the world’s longest river? The Amazon would like a word. The Washington Post has more on an intractable geographic debate. NPR reports on research into whether a playlist of fish sounds can help save the world’s coral reefs.
6/16/20239 minutes, 44 seconds
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Sneak Peek: Writer Samantha Irby makes the case for enjoying frivolous things

Samantha Irby is many things: blogger; essayist; and writer for shows like Shrill, And Just Like That …, and Work in Progress. Above all, she is a master of transforming seemingly mundane moments of everyday life into high comedy. Irby sat down with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu to talk about her new book, Quietly Hostile, her writing process, turning herself into a TV character, and why frivolous things matter. This is a preview of their conversation.
6/15/20232 minutes, 7 seconds
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Migrants want help after 20 months stuck on an island “hell”

Dozens of migrants have been stuck for months on a tiny island in the Indian Ocean. They say conditions are terrible. The BBC reports. A catatonic woman awakened after 20 years. The Washington Post explains how her story may change psychiatry. The Houston Chronicle reports on why elephants at the local zoo do yoga.
6/15/202310 minutes, 19 seconds
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Olympian’s death highlights health risks for Black women

Olympian Tori Bowie died from a pregnancy complication that disproportionately impacts Black women. ABC News reports on the latest. The Associated Press has been covering health disparities that are affecting this community in America. San Francisco put cash in kindergarteners’ college savings accounts 13 years ago. The San Francisco Chronicle examines whether the move paid off. Paul McCartney tells the BBC how AI has enabled a “final” Beatles song.
6/14/20238 minutes, 51 seconds
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Trump is in court today. What to know about the charges.

The Washington Post explains why Trump was charged in relation to handling secret information while Hillary Clinton and Mike Pence were not, and details the 37 charges he faces. In a groundbreaking climate lawsuit, young plaintiffs argue that Montana’s fossil-fuel support violates their constitutional rights. The Daily Montanan has the story. The student-loan freeze is ending. The Wall Street Journal has what you need to know. Apple News has a special collection of coverage on how the Denver Nuggets won their first NBA title.
6/13/20239 minutes, 8 seconds
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How kids survived 40 days in the Amazon after a plane crash

The Guardian has fresh details on how four Colombian children lived through nearly six weeks alone in the Amazon jungle after a plane crash. A new program could shed light on the link between fighting wildfires and cancer. Boise State Public Radio reports. The Sacramento Bee looks at how riders are taking mail on horseback from California to Missouri to celebrate the anniversary of the Pony Express.
6/12/20238 minutes, 11 seconds
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What we know about Trump’s historic federal criminal charges

Donald Trump was indicted again, this time on federal criminal charges. The Washington Post has the details.  The Wall Street Journal has exclusive reporting on a secret agreement reached by Cuba and China for the island to host a Chinese spy facility.  The U.S. Supreme Court Thursday upheld a lower-court ruling that Alabama’s 2022 congressional maps violated the Voting Rights Act. The Alabama Reflector explains the decision’s significance. Air quality in the Northeast is slowly improving as wildfire smoke moves on. CNN is tracking conditions.  The Washington Post explains the wave of state legislation to ban or restrict the use of ”forever chemicals.” Tennis stars get lots of hate online, so the French Open gave them AI social-media “bodyguards.” NPR reports.
6/9/202311 minutes, 3 seconds
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Sneak Peek: His father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. He went looking for answers.

Around 2013, author and cardiologist Sandeep Jauhar started noticing some worrying changes in his father. He would forget the code to their safe; he couldn’t remember what he did the day before and would get lost driving home. Eventually, his father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. In his new book, My Father’s Brain: Life in the Shadow of Alzheimer’s, Jauhar chronicles the challenges of caring for a sick parent and explains where medicine is today when it comes to treatment for this incurable illness. This is a preview of Jauhar's conversation with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu.
6/8/20233 minutes, 36 seconds
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How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke

National Geographic explains how wildfire smoke affects your body and how to protect against it. CNN CEO Chris Licht was ousted after a tumultuous year. The Hollywood Reporter has more. Soccer superstar Lionel Messi made a deal to play for Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami. The Wall Street Journal has details.
6/8/202311 minutes, 19 seconds
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Understanding the crowded GOP presidential primary

Even as more and more Republicans run for president, many GOP voters remain devoted to Trump. The Atlantic has the story. NBC explains what to know about the health risks of the wildfire smoke spreading across the U.S. NPR reports on how a heart-transplant recipient died after being denied meds in jail.
6/7/20238 minutes, 54 seconds
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The latest plot twist in Hollywood’s labor drama

Ukraine blames Russia for destroying a critical dam near Kherson, forcing evacuations. CNN has more. The Hollywood Reporter details how a vote by the actors union to authorize a strike is raising the stakes in Hollywood’s season of labor unrest. NPR examines how the far right tore apart one of the best tools to fight voter fraud. Why do Golden Knights fans throw flamingos on the ice? The Sporting News explains Las Vegas’s unusual hockey tradition.
6/6/20239 minutes, 38 seconds
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The hidden mental-health crisis in America’s jails

State psychiatric hospitals are full, which means people who are waiting for mental-health treatment in order to stand trial are behind bars for long periods. The Wall Street Journal investigates. GQ talks to NBA players about the art of the pregame nap. Esquire introduces us to the one-person team behind Antarctica’s longest-running newspaper, the Antarctic Sun.
6/5/20238 minutes, 8 seconds
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How structural racism affects the health of Black Americans

The Associated Press spent the past year exploring how the legacy of racism in America has laid the foundation for the health inequities that Black people face. Time looks at the scientific reasons why you can’t remember that Beyoncé or Taylor Swift concert all too well.  Electric vehicles are hailed as an environmentally friendly alternative to gas-powered cars. But that doesn’t mean they’re totally clean. Hear more on this weekend’s episode of Apple News In Conversation.
6/2/202311 minutes, 1 second
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What you should know before buying an EV

Electric vehicles may be better for the planet in a lot of ways, but there are huge, often-unseen environmental and human costs associated with harvesting the minerals needed to make EV batteries. On the latest episode of Apple News In Conversation, host Shumita Basu spoke with Washington Post reporters Rebecca Tan and Evan Halper about the paper’s series “Clean Cars, Hidden Tolls.”  
6/1/20232 minutes, 23 seconds
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Florida’s new immigration law is creating fear and frustration

NPR explains how Florida’s new immigration law is creating fear and frustration for businesses and workers.  The Ringer previews the 2023 NBA Finals matchup between the Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets tipping off tonight.  The brightest young spellers in the country are battling it out at the Scripps National Spelling Bee this week. The Washington Post caught up with a record-setting six-time competitor ahead of his final bee.
6/1/202311 minutes, 24 seconds
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The Supreme Court case that may upend Native American rights

The Atlantic reports on the Supreme Court case that could upend Native American sovereignty.  Luxury goods are having a moment with American consumers despite the rough economy. Vox explains the surprising reason why.  The National Women’s Soccer League scrapped its age minimum. The Wall Street Journal reports on the wave of teens trying to go pro—and hoping to make the U.S. national team.
5/31/20239 minutes, 37 seconds
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What to know about the proposed debt-ceiling deal

Drones attack residential areas in Moscow for the first time since Russia invaded Ukraine, NBC News reports. Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s two decades of dominance over the country’s politics will continue after a win in Sunday’s election. NPR has more. A new anti-LGBTQ law in Uganda calls for life in prison for those who are convicted, NPR explains. President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy reached a deal over the weekend to raise the debt limit and avoid a government default. Time looks at what’s in it.  Vox breaks down how Vermont became a national leader in child care.  The Wall Street Journal explains the long fight over “Taco Tuesday.”
5/30/202310 minutes, 36 seconds
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Homeless shelters aren’t ready for a wave of aging Americans

Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes was sentenced to 18 years in prison for seditious conspiracy in the January 6 Capitol attack. USA Today has more. The Supreme Court dramatically shrunk the Clean Water Act’s reach. Politico explains what to know. The Wall Street Journal looks at why Texas lawmakers are set to consider impeachment proceedings against Attorney General Ken Paxton. Older Americans are flooding homeless shelters that can’t care for them. The Washington Post reports on cities that are rushing to build specialized facilities.  Free, ad-supported, streaming television services like Freevee and Pluto are having a moment. Vox explains. The Miami Herald asked experts for tips on the best and worst times to travel this Memorial Day weekend.
5/26/20239 minutes, 5 seconds
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How only 11 people have driven the majority of book bans

An analysis from the Washington Post of book challenges from across the nation shows that the majority were filed by just 11 people. NPR describes how dozens of countries face a default dilemma: Either pay their debt or fund schools and hospitals. Scientists are puzzled by orcas sinking boats in a string of abnormal attacks. NBC News has the story.
5/25/20239 minutes, 12 seconds
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A grieving Uvalde mother fights to change gun laws

After her daughter was killed in Uvalde, Kimberly Mata-Rubio became an advocate for changing gun laws. Texas Monthly looks at a year in the life of a grieving mother. Guam residents evacuated as Typhoon Mawar approached. CNN is on the story. The South Carolina Legislature advanced a six-week abortion ban, which the governor says he will sign. The State has full coverage. USA Today reports on a New York judge’s decision to set a March 2024 trial date for Trump’s criminal case, meaning it will happen at the height of the presidential primary races.
5/24/202310 minutes, 13 seconds
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The short life of Baby Milo

Milo Evan Dorbert, whose mother’s pregnancy tested the interpretation of Florida’s new abortion law, was born with a fatal abnormality. He lived 99 minutes. The Washington Post tells his story. The Los Angeles Times reports that several states have agreed to cut their water use to boost the Colorado River’s depleted reservoirs, reaching a consensus after months of negotiations. ABC News looks at how investigating the killings of four college students is straining a small Idaho town’s finances. Hundreds of thousands of pagers are still in use in America. The Wall Street Journal talks to fans who won’t let go of their beepers.
5/23/20239 minutes, 4 seconds
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How AI is making a mess on college campuses

The Atlantic looks at how students and professors are grappling with the emergence of AI on college campuses. More wives are outearning their husbands. It’s resulting in longer-lasting marriages. The Wall Street Journal has the story. The Washington Post explains why birds and their songs are good for our mental health.
5/22/20238 minutes, 56 seconds
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GOP sets sights on ballot measures as abortion fight spreads

Legislators in some GOP-led states are backing measures to make it harder to amend constitutions, amid a wave of attempts to use ballot initiatives to protect abortion rights. The Wall Street Journal looks at the issue. The Washington Post explains why the recycling symbol could end up in the trash bin. USA Today has a preview of the WNBA season opening, including Brittney Griner’s return after her detention in Russia.
5/19/20239 minutes, 5 seconds
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Sneak Peek: How unreported gifts and luxury travel are harming the Supreme Court’s legitimacy

Recent allegations of ethical violations have reignited a debate about establishing an enforceable code of conduct for Supreme Court justices. University of Texas law professor Stephen Vladeck argues the latest revelations concerning several justices speak to a much larger breakdown in the way the court operates today. He writes about this in his new book, The Shadow Docket: How the Supreme Court Uses Stealth Rulings to Amass Power and Undermine the Republic. Vladeck spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about the absence of accountability on the court — and how reforming it could lead to a stronger, more trusted institution. This is a preview of that conversation.
5/18/20232 minutes, 22 seconds
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The mental-health crisis keeping kids out of school

USA Today reports on how students with anxiety are increasingly refusing to go to school, leaving parents feeling hopeless and schools unequipped to find a solution. The Guardian looks at a new report warning that the world will likely soon breach a critical temperature threshold, with possible catastrophic effects. The Wall Street Journal sums up research linking processed meat to health problems, which has many doctors urging people to skip deli meat, bacon, and sausage.
5/18/20238 minutes, 36 seconds
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Ukraine’s challenges as it prepares a major offensive

The Times of London explains how Ukraine’s expected offensive against Russia may unfold. A ProPublica investigation reveals the ugly truth behind “We Buy Ugly Houses.” Turns out the sun is actually green. Scientists explain to the Washington Post.
5/17/20239 minutes, 53 seconds
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Does Congress understand AI enough to regulate it?

Congress wants to regulate AI but has a lot of catching up to do. NPR talks to top lawmakers and experts about the issue. The Wall Street Journal reports on why the federal government may soon ban chocolate milk and other sugary flavored milks from school cafeterias. ESPN introduces us to 7-foot-5 French teenager Victor Wembanyama. Many basketball stars say he could be the game’s next great player.
5/16/20238 minutes, 34 seconds
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Inside Texas’s controversial arrests of migrants

The Washington Post goes inside one Texas border county where an initiative to crack down on human smuggling is creating controversy. Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones owes Sandy Hook plaintiffs millions of dollars and hasn’t yet paid a dime. Vice spoke to one who has been forced to crowdfund cancer treatment. The Atlantic explains why the era of free returns for online shopping is ending.
5/15/20239 minutes, 6 seconds
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Probing the killing of a Palestinian American journalist

Al Jazeera reports on the search for justice for Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, who was killed in the West Bank by Israeli forces a year ago. Sunday’s presidential election in Turkey marks Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s biggest challenge since coming to power two decades ago. Bloomberg explains why the vote matters globally.  Watch the Wall Street Journal video on how 1-800-Flowers delivers 23 million blooms for Mother’s Day.
5/12/202310 minutes, 33 seconds
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Sneak Peek: The secrets our government keeps from us — and why

Documents marked “top secret” have been turning up in a lot of unexpected places recently. But America has another problem with classified documents: There’s too many of them. By some estimates, it would take 250 years for these documents to be reviewed and released to the public. On the latest episode of Apple News In Conversation, host Shumita Basu spoke with Matthew Connelly, author of The Declassification Engine: What History Reveals About America’s Top Secrets, about the government’s culture of secrecy. Below are excerpts from the interview.
5/12/20232 minutes, 52 seconds
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How the Santos indictment could shake up Congress

Vox explains how George Santos’s federal indictment could shake up Congress. A biographer tells the Washington Post that Martin Luther King Jr.’s harshest and most famous criticism of Malcolm X appears to have been substantially fabricated. The Los Angeles Times has the story of how two friends brought sushi to the U.S. and changed the way Americans eat.
5/11/20239 minutes, 36 seconds
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How E. Jean Carroll won her sexual-abuse case against Trump

CNN explains what E. Jean Carroll had to prove to win her case against Donald Trump. The Wall Street Journal examines the Biden administration’s new border plan, as a controversial pandemic policy ends. Avian flu is killing a massive number of wild birds, including the endangered California condor. Scientists tell Vox they’ve never seen anything like it. USA Today reports on how a petit basset griffon Vendéen named Buddy Holly made history as the first of his breed to win best in show at the Westminster Dog Show.
5/10/20238 minutes, 36 seconds
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What to know as jurors consider the Trump civil case

Donald Trump’s fate in the battery and defamation civil lawsuit filed by writer E. Jean Carroll will be in the hands of a jury. ABC covers the closing arguments. The FDA is considering allowing birth-control pills to be sold over the counter in the U.S. for the first time. The Washington Post explains what could happen. Criminal trials have become an endangered species. NPR reports on a new effort to change that. Apple News has curated a special collection of Pulitzer Prize–winning journalism.
5/9/20239 minutes, 23 seconds
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Texas GOP resists new gun regulations after deadly shootings

The Texas Tribune reports on how local Republicans are focusing on mental health, not guns, after the latest deadly shooting. The Wall Street Journal looks at how Biden and lawmakers are trying to break the impasse on raising the debt ceiling before a potential default. Will Wilkerson blew the whistle on Truth Social. Now he works at Starbucks. The Washington Post tells his story. Forbes looks into why international airfare is so high ahead of summer. The Wall Street Journal explains why you should renew your passport quickly. And the Atlantic reports on how booking a hotel online these days became such an excruciating experience.
5/8/20239 minutes, 5 seconds
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What to know about the latest Clarence Thomas revelations

Clarence Thomas had a child in private school. GOP donor Harlan Crow paid the tuition. ProPublica investigates. Meanwhile, Washington Post reporting reveals that a conservative judicial activist directed fees toward Thomas’s wife, urging “no mention of Ginni.” Biden secured trillions of dollars in domestic legislation. The Wall Street Journal looks at how the administration is taking on the challenge of spending it. As the NBA playoffs continue, the Ringer looks at the key numbers in the Celtics–Sixers matchup.
5/5/20239 minutes, 51 seconds
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Sneak Peak: What makes a murderer? These investigators might have the answer.

Nearly 30 years ago, James Bernard Belcher was sentenced to death for raping, strangling, and drowning 29-year-old Jennifer Embry. Recently, he was given a second chance: a resentencing, this time with new evidence unearthed by a mitigation specialist. These life-history investigators seek to contextualize a defendant’s violent crimes, often by surfacing childhood traumas. On the latest episode of Apple News In Conversation, host Shumita Basu spoke with Maurice Chammah, a reporter for the Marshall Project, about shadowing one specialist as she excavates Belcher’s past in a bid to spare his life. Below are excerpts from the interview.
5/4/20232 minutes, 8 seconds
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How blocked train crossings are putting our kids in danger

ProPublica investigates how blocked train crossings are forcing kids to crawl under trains to get to school. A scientist widely viewed as the godfather of AI is quitting Google and warning of the technology’s dangers. He spoke to the BBC. A 40-year hunt for lost ‘Jeopardy’ tapes is over. And the champion on them is finally telling her story to the Ringer.
5/4/20239 minutes, 52 seconds
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Worried that a recession’s coming? Listen to this.

The Federal Reserve will announce its next move and its view on the economy today. Some forecasters say a recession is more likely following recent data and bank failures. CNBC has a preview of the Fed’s statement. Politico reports on a Senate hearing on ethics concerns at the Supreme Court that revealed some bipartisan agreement that justices could do more on the issue. On World Press Freedom Day, Apple News has a collection of stories highlighting the challenges journalists face around the world. FIFA is threatening not to broadcast the Women’s World Cup in some European countries unless media companies pay more for the rights. ESPN reports. Meanwhile, CNBC has the story of an entrepreneur who used her life savings to open a bar in Oregon that only plays women’s sports. It’s thriving.
5/3/202310 minutes, 24 seconds
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Why Hollywood writers are striking — and what happens next

Biden invited congressional leaders to a debt-ceiling meeting after the Treasury Department warned that the U.S. could default as soon as June 1. Politico has the story. Hollywood writers are striking after talks with producers fail to reach an agreement. The Los Angeles Times reports. Patients who fear losing their voices can now save and re-create them with help from AI. The Washington Post explains how. A new California gold rush, fed by heavy rain? Geologists tell SF Gate why they’re wary.
5/2/202311 minutes, 4 seconds
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Why are Americans shooting strangers and neighbors?

A manhunt is underway in Texas after a gunman killed five people. The Houston Chronicle is on the story. The Washington Post has an analysis of data on recent incidents where people have shot neighbors or strangers during everyday misunderstandings. There’s a conservative campaign to rewrite child-labor laws. The Washington Post investigates. A new project aims to fight mosquito-borne illness with more mosquitos. Freethink explains how it would work. The fashion world is watching to see if Karl Lagerfeld’s cat makes history by walking the red carpet at the Met Gala. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
5/1/20239 minutes, 33 seconds
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Sick workers seek justice after cleaning up BP’s oil spill

The workers who cleaned up the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico say they have serious health problems as a result. And, they say, the company is making it hard to get compensation. The Guardian is telling their stories. According to aid workers on the ground, the situation in Sudan is worsening, as fighting between rival forces makes it unsafe to help civilians. Time Magazine has more. A top couples therapist joins us on In Conversation to talk about the relationship insights she wishes more people knew.
4/28/202311 minutes, 22 seconds
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Sneak Peak: What a top couples therapist wishes more people knew

The Showtime documentary series Couples Therapy allows viewers to watch real-life therapy sessions. Couples hash out their conflicts and challenges with Dr. Orna Guralnik as their guide. Guralnik is a psychoanalyst who prompts people to examine their instincts, listen to their partners, and do some deep self-discovery. Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu spoke with Guralnik about her approach to therapy — and her relationship advice. This is a preview of that conversation.
4/27/20233 minutes, 19 seconds
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How a writers strike would mess up your favorite shows

Montana Republicans voted to ban a transgender lawmaker from the state legislature’s floor. The Daily Montanan reports. A judge halted a Missouri order that would have limited access to transgender health care. The Missouri Independent has more. Vox explains what happens to shows and movies when Hollywood writers go on strike. Allergy season is here and climate change is making it worse. NBC News tells us why.
4/27/202311 minutes, 11 seconds
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You can test for Alzheimer’s risk. The result may scare you.

More Americans are getting genetic testing for their risk of Alzheimer’s. Reuters explains how the results can be stressful. The Washington Post looks at how early-stage patients are making lifestyle changes as they attempt to prevent their conditions from getting worse. CNBC reports on how the SpaceX rocket explosion is raising questions about how much damage the launch may have done to the environment on the ground. Vulture explains a copyright lawsuit involving Ed Sheeran and a Marvin Gaye song.
4/26/202311 minutes, 46 seconds
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Tucker Carlson is out at Fox News. Here’s what we know.

Vanity Fair looks into Tucker Carlson’s surprising exit from Fox News. The Washington Post examines how abortion is dividing 2024 candidates and confounding many in the GOP. Jury selection is expected to begin in the trial involving E. Jean Carroll’s rape allegation against Donald Trump. The Wall Street Journal reports. As the Tree of Life synagogue-shooting trial begins, the Pennsylvania Capital-Star looks at attempts to change gun and hate-crimes laws in the wake the killings. The Los Angeles Times has the story of actor Danny Masterson’s retrial on rape charges. We’re also nearing the end of the seditious conspiracy trial of five Proud Boys leaders accused of spearheading the January 6 attack on the Capitol. The Washington Post has more.
4/25/20239 minutes, 21 seconds
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Why experts expect Ukraine to launch a big offensive

Ukraine is gearing up for a major offensive against Russian forces. The Wall Street Journal has details. Is gray hair reversible? A new study digs into the root cause of aging scalps. NPR has more. ESPN tells the story of how Wrexham, a long-suffering soccer team, got back into its old league under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
4/24/20239 minutes, 36 seconds
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New twists in the unusual fight between DeSantis and Disney

Florida governor Ron DeSantis and his allies are ramping up a fight with Disney, even as more Republicans criticize his tactics. CNBC breaks down the latest. Idaho spends less on schools per student than any other state. Kids are freezing and struggling to learn. ProPublica investigates. The Wall Street Journal has the unusual story of the man who settled the Fox-Dominion defamation case from a Romanian tour bus. Apple News editors have curated a special collection of environmental stories for Earth Day.
4/21/202312 minutes, 12 seconds
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Sneak Peak: Why Sienna Miller and Scott Z. Burns made a climate-catastrophe show

What would a future look like where climate change has become a truly unavoidable part of all of our daily lives? This is one of the questions the new Apple TV+ show Extrapolations tries to answer. Series creator Scott Z. Burns was a producer of the 2006 documentary An Inconvenient Truth and the writer behind the eerily prescient 2011 film Contagion, about a global pandemic. Burns, along with one of the stars of the series, Sienna Miller, spoke with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu about the making of Extrapolations — and how dystopian portrayals of the future can mobilize and motivate people to take serious action. This is a preview of that converstion.
4/20/20232 minutes, 34 seconds
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Rent? Buy? New data shows the market’s weird for all of us.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s medical absence is limiting Democrats’ ability to move Biden’s judicial nominations through. The Washington Post has the story. New data shows a slowdown in apartment building, the latest twist to a very unusual housing market for renters and buyers alike. MarketWatch reports. After 25 years, Netflix’s DVD-by-mail service is coming to an end. The Wall Street Journal has a look back.
4/20/20238 minutes, 21 seconds
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Election lies cost Fox News $787.5 million. Now what?

The Washington Post reports on the impact of Fox News’s $787.5 million settlement of the Dominion defamation case. There’s new criticism of Missouri’s self-defense laws in the wake of the Ralph Yarl shooting. The Kansas City Star has the story. The Wall Street Journal explains why climate change is making heavy turbulence more common during air travel.
4/19/202310 minutes, 19 seconds
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The felony charges in the shooting of a Black Missouri teen

Prosecutors charged a man in the shooting of 16-year-old Black student Ralph Yarl, who had mistakenly gone to the wrong house to pick up his younger siblings. The Kansas City Star has the story. The trial for a landmark defamation suit against Fox News by Dominion Voting Systems is scheduled to get underway today. Brian Stelter, former CNN chief media correspondent, joined In Conversation to explain what the plaintiff is seeking to prove. He’s also covering the trial for Vanity Fair. A Vox journalist reveals what volunteering to do other people’s taxes taught him about America’s challenging tax code. The Guardian has the story of a photographer who rejected a prestigious prize because his image was AI-generated.
4/18/202311 minutes, 6 seconds
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Deadly new conflict just broke out in Sudan. Here’s why.

CNN explains origins of the deadly new conflict in Sudan. Next-generation treatments can be complicated to test and administer. The Wall Street Journal reports on the race to get doctors trained on the medicines of the future. Last night the lights went down on Broadway’s ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ for the final time. The Wall Street Journal profiles the guy who flipped the switch.
4/17/20239 minutes, 8 seconds
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How a landmark trial against Fox News could change libel law

A landmark defamation trial against Fox News begins next week. Legal observers say the outcome could have a big impact on libel laws. Brian Stelter discusses the implications with Shumita Basu on this week’s Apple News In Conversation.  Federal authorities arrested Jack Teixeira, a 21-year-old Air National Guard member, in connection with a leak of highly classified U.S. intelligence documents. The Guardian has more.  Town & Country looks at real-estate developers’ plans to build on the moon. Yes, the moon. For weeks now, some of the NBA’s biggest stars have been benched. The Wall Street Journal explains why.
4/14/202310 minutes, 13 seconds
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Inside the EPA’s most ambitious car-pollution plan ever

New vehicle-pollution rules proposed by the EPA would require two-thirds of cars on the market to be EVs by 2032. Vox looks at what’s in the plan and its prospects for implementation. NPR reports on its decision to cease posting to Twitter after the social-media platform labeled it first “state-affiliated media,” then “government-funded media.” The BBC asks Twitter CEO Elon Musk about the thinking behind his company’s decision in a wide-ranging interview.  The Wall Street Journal reports on how consumers are rethinking their relationship to subscriptions — and why it might soon get easier to cancel.
4/13/202310 minutes, 58 seconds
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What to know about the apparent U.S. intelligence leak

Images of what appear to be highly classified U.S. intelligence documents recently turned up on a social platform popular with gamers. The Wall Street Journal has more about the Pentagon team looking into the apparent leak and the fallout. The Journal also has the biggest questions and takeaways from the incident.  The SIG Sauer P320 is one of America’s most popular handguns. The Trace details how more than 100 people say their P320s discharged unexpectedly. Individuals who make Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list are often praised as disrupters. Several have since been arrested for fraud and scams. The Guardian has more. The Washington Post explains how warmer temperatures due to climate change are making homers more common in Major League Baseball.
4/12/202310 minutes, 27 seconds
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How soldiers accused of violent crimes avoid trial

The Army is increasingly allowing service members who face criminal charges for violent crimes to circumvent trial by being discharged from the military. ProPublica investigates.  In recent layoffs, some employees were affected while on parental or medical leave. NPR spoke to a few. Makers of fortune cookies are debating whether artificial intelligence has a role in their industry. The Wall Street Journal has more.
4/11/202311 minutes, 21 seconds
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Who is responsible when artificial intelligence lies?

ChatGPT invented a sexual-harassment scandal and named a real law professor as the accused. Who’s at fault? The Washington Post investigates.  Home prices in the West are falling as prices in the East boom. The Wall Street Journal takes a closer look this unusual pattern. Bloomberg looks at how one man figured out a winning strategy for a seemingly unbeatable casino game: roulette.
4/10/202310 minutes, 15 seconds
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Justice Thomas under fire for gifts from GOP billionaire

A ProPublica investigation finds that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas accepted extensive gifts from a billionaire Republican donor, without reporting them. Johnson & Johnson offered $8.9 billion to settle lawsuits alleging that talc in its baby powder and other products caused cancer. Reuters has the story. New York magazine looks into LED bulbs.
4/7/202310 minutes, 41 seconds
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Sneak Peak: Why we don’t take postpartum mental health seriously enough — and what that means for new parents

Earlier this year, a woman named Lindsay Clancy was charged with the murder of her three children — who were 5 years, 3 years, and 7 months old. Though Clancy never formally received a PMAD diagnosis, her story has ignited conversations about postpartum care in the United States. Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu spoke with New Yorker editor Jessica Winter about the mental-health challenges many new birthing parents face — and the lack of support provided to them. This is a preview of that converstion.
4/6/20233 minutes, 22 seconds
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Rising oil prices will affect you, even if you don’t drive

Bloomberg reports on how oil prices have risen this week after producers made a surprise cut to output. America has too much parking. Really. The Wall Street Journal explains. When did people start brushing dogs’ teeth? The Atlantic has the answer.
4/6/20239 minutes, 37 seconds
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Trump’s facing criminal charges. So have many world leaders.

Politico breaks down the new revelations and key questions from the Trump indictment document. Trump may be the first former U.S. president to face criminal charges, but it’s a different story on the global stage. NPR explains. The Tennessean reports on how debate over guns is heating up in the state following the deadly school shooting in Nashville. The Wall Street Journal has key developments in the detention by Russia of its reporter Evan Gershkovich. Plants aren’t silent. CNN reports on a new study that reveals the noise they make.
4/5/20239 minutes, 49 seconds
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What to know before Trump appears in court

The Wall Street Journal has coverage tracking the history of the hush-money payment to Stormy Daniels and the lead-up to Trump’s indictment and appearance in court today. NPR explains why today’s Wisconsin Supreme Court race matters nationally. CBS Sports has everything to know about UConn’s dominant run to a fifth men’s NCAA title. Meanwhile, ESPN reports on how the women’s championship game drew a record TV audience. The New Yorker tells us why the animal kingdom is full of con artists.
4/4/20238 minutes, 5 seconds
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What the Trump indictment could mean for 2024

Political strategists talk to Vox about how Trump’s indictment could affect the 2024 presidential campaign. The Washington Post reports that the Justice Department has new evidence pointing to possible Trump obstruction in the Mar-a-Lago classified-documents investigation. There’s a lot of focus on the safety of transporting hazardous materials by train. But, researchers argue in Scientific American, the chemicals industry could also do more to make the materials themselves safer. The Wall Street Journal looks at why it’s getting so hard for households to budget accurately. ESPN reports on how Louisiana State won the women’s NCAA basketball title and its coach made history.
4/3/20239 minutes, 14 seconds
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What happens next in the Trump indictment

The Wall Street Journal has key details on the grand-jury indictment of Donald Trump, which marks the first time a former president has faced criminal charges. Americans in multiple states are at risk of dangerous thunderstorms today. USA Today explains why tornadoes are a near certainty. Gwyneth Paltrow won a ski-collision court case that got international attention. CNN has the story. NPR reports on the millions of Americans who stand to lose their Medicaid coverage as a pandemic-era rule expires. The NCAA Final Four games are here. NBC Sports previews the women’s matchups. ESPN ranks the remaining men’s teams.
3/31/20239 minutes, 58 seconds
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Sneak Peak: Why there’s so much poverty in America — and what you can do about it

More than 38 million people live in poverty in the United States, one of the world’s richest countries. In a new book, Poverty, by America, sociologist and writer Matthew Desmond sets out to figure out why. In an interview with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu, Desmond lays out the ways that so many of us benefit from a system that keeps people poor, and he offers concrete actions we can all take to dismantle the status quo. This is a preview of that conversation.
3/30/20232 minutes, 28 seconds
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Why more donated livers are going to waste

The Washington Post explains how the AR-15 came to dominate the American gun marketplace and loom so large in the national psyche. The Markup reveals data showing that poorer states are suffering under changed organ-donation rules, as many livers go to waste. The Ringer has the forgotten history of baseball’s pitch clock.
3/30/20239 minutes, 35 seconds
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What the AR-15 does to human bodies

The Washington Post has a graphic look at how the AR-15 does so much damage to the human body. USA Today reports on the fire that killed dozens of people at a Mexican migration facility on the U.S. border on Monday. PBS looks at the risks student-athletes are facing as legal sports betting booms.
3/29/20239 minutes, 31 seconds
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What’s unique about America’s mass-shooting problem

Vox explains why mass shootings like the one in Nashville keep happening in America. NPR unpacks Israel’s political and judicial crisis. CNBC has the story of how Lebanon found itself in two time zones due to a clash over daylight saving. Companies are posting jobs they have no intention of filling. The Wall Street Journal details why.
3/28/20238 minutes, 18 seconds
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Israel reaches a critical moment amid mass protests

A massive tornado on Friday killed at least 25 in Mississippi. NBC News has the latest. First Citizens acquired much of the failed Silicon Valley Bank, the Wall Street Journal reports. CNN has the story on protests that are erupting across Israel as pushback continues against a planned judicial overhaul. A Nebraska state senator vowed to filibuster every bill for the rest of the legislative session after a bill was advanced that would ban gender-affirming care for people under 19. Her son is trans. Salon has more.  Most trans adults say transitioning made them more satisfied with their lives. That’s according to a Washington Post and Kaiser Family Foundation survey, one of the largest to date of U.S. transgender adults. Senior care is crushingly expensive. Boomers aren’t ready. The Washington Post spoke with families who have been forced to put their retirement plans on hold.  A group of surprising teams have advanced to the Final Four in the men’s NCAA tournament. Yahoo Sports has more. ESPN looks at one major contender gone on the women’s side.
3/27/202310 minutes, 40 seconds
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How TikTok’s CEO answered tough questions on data security

It’s Friday, March 23. On today’s show:  The U.S. carried out a series of airstrikes in Syria on Thursday night against Iran-aligned groups. Reuters explains more. Israeli parliament passed a controversial law protecting the prime minister, according to CNN. The U.S. and Canada reached a new immigration deal. The Los Angeles Times has details. Members of Congress grilled the CEO of TikTok about data security on the world’s most popular app. NPR recaps the big moments. And Fox Business takes a closer look at all the information TikTok says it can gather on users in its terms of service.  Physicians in states that have banned abortion procedures say they feel like they’re working under a microscope. The Idaho Capital Sun, Slate, and the Guardian talked with doctors in Idaho, Texas, and Alabama, which have some of the strictest bans in the country.  Lab-grown dairy is here. The Washington Post reports on its potential to shake up the future of animal dairy and plant-based milks. 
3/24/202310 minutes, 11 seconds
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Why SCOTUS is considering a case about dog-toy poop jokes

It’s Thursday, March 23. On today’s show:   A Trump lawyer was ordered to hand over notes in the Mar-a-Lago documents inquiry. The Guardian has more.  Southern California was hit by a tornado as the state’s severe weather continues. The Los Angeles Times has the story.  Reuters reports on the U.N.’s first conference on global water security in almost 50 years.  The Supreme Court heard arguments yesterday in a surprisingly difficult case about dog toys and potty humor — also, free speech and judicial humility. Vox explains what’s at stake.  Sports Illustrated previews the next March Madness match-ups for the women’s tournament. And the Ringer looks at the men’s tournament. Millennials made “uncool” sneakers trendy. The Atlantic writes about how that may be saving America’s feet. 
3/23/20239 minutes, 51 seconds
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They make $25,000 a year in L.A. Now they’re striking.

It’s Wednesday, March 22. On today’s show:   The Federal Reserve will announce its next move on interest rates today. The Wall Street Journal explains why this will be its toughest call yet. And Bloomberg looks at two possible actions Chair Jerome Powell could take.  The Guardian explains why the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin over the relocation of thousands of children from Ukraine to Russia.  Bus drivers, custodians, teachers, classroom aides, cafeteria staff and other workers in the U.S.’s second-largest school district are striking for better wages and benefits. The Los Angeles Times is following their walkout.  Japan beat the U.S. in the championship game of the World Baseball Classic. USA Today has more.
3/22/20239 minutes, 9 seconds
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The strongest evidence yet that COVID started with an animal

It’s Tuesday, March 21, 2023. On today’s show:  Biden signed a bill ordering the director of national intelligence to declassify  information related to the Wuhan Institute of Virology as a potential origin of COVID-19 within 90 days. USA Today has more.  Meanwhile, the Atlantic details the strongest evidence yet that an animal started the pandemic.  U.S.-led forces invaded Iraq 20 years ago. CNN reports on what life is like for ordinary people there now.  American veterans won justice for burn-pit exposure. The Washington Post reports on how Iraqis were forgotten.  Gas bills are on a roller-coaster ride with no end in sight. The Wall Street Journal examines the reasons for the turbulence. And, Houston, we have a space-trash problem. Time reports on the scientists sounding the alarm over the jaw-dropping amount of human-made debris circling Earth. 
3/21/202310 minutes, 57 seconds
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What happens next if Trump is indicted

Time looks at what happens next if Trump is indicted.  China’s Xi and Russia’s Putin are set to meet. The Washington Post previews the high-profile summit. Xi may also talk to Ukraine’s Zelenskyy at a later date, the Wall Street Journal reports. NPR reports that Swiss officials brokered a last-minute emergency takeover of the troubled bank Credit Suisse by rival UBS.  In March Madness news, No. 16 seed Fairleigh Dickinson defeated No. 1 seed Purdue in the men’s tournament. CNN has the story. Meanwhile, the Stanford women’s team, also a No. 1 seed, got knocked out. The San Francisco Chronicle has more. The Washington Post profiles digital news outlet Iran Wire, which has provided critical insight as protests have swept the country over the last six months.
3/20/202310 minutes, 47 seconds
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Why we don’t really know how many guns are in America

The Trace, a newsroom dedicated to covering gun violence, tries to pin down the number of guns in the United States. The biggest banks in the U.S. swooped in to rescue First Republic Bank with a flood of cash totaling $30 billion, the Wall Street Journal explains.  The French government has been forced to push through unpopular pension reforms, amid weeks of protests. BBC has more. USA Today has a fact check on a claim about retirement in the U.S.  The Los Angeles Times looks at a Ukrainian military’s surrender hotline, which is enticing some Russian soldiers to quit the battlefield as the war drags on. In a divorce settlement in Spain, a woman’s ex-husband was ordered to pay her back for 25 years of housework. The Miami Herald has the story. 
3/17/202311 minutes, 25 seconds
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Sneak Peak: Havana syndrome looks very real on brain scans. Why is it still a mystery to the U.S. government?

In 2016, U.S. government officials began reporting a mysterious set of symptoms. They first appeared in Havana, but then showed up in other countries around the world. For Vice World News, reporters Adam Entous and Jon Lee Anderson explain everything they’ve learned about what’s now commonly called Havana syndrome, and why the U.S. still can’t explain what causes it. On this week’s episode of Apple News In Conversation, Entous and Anderson discuss their reporting with host Shumita Basu. This is a preview of that conversation.
3/16/20233 minutes, 16 seconds
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The abortion-pill case in a Texas court, explained

A federal judge heard a challenge to the FDA’s approval of an abortion drug. The Texas Tribune was in the courtroom. The Wall Street Journal reports that the U.S. is threatening to ban TikTok if its Chinese owners don’t sell their stakes. They thought loved ones were calling for help. It was an A.I. scam. The Washington Post has the story. As March Madness gets underway, the Ringer has a guide to possible upset winners in the men’s tournament. And ESPN has predictions for the women’s matchups.
3/16/20239 minutes, 42 seconds
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How the U.S. military isn’t ready for Russia and China

The Wall Street Journal investigates the readiness of the U.S. military for a potential large-scale conflict with China and/or Russia. More than 300 bills that would limit transgender rights are under consideration in U.S. statehouses. Grid tracked them. The BBC reports on the deadly destruction of Cyclone Freddy. Bloomberg looks at how sensors pinned to basketball jerseys could help teams prevent injuries.
3/15/20239 minutes, 20 seconds
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Bank collapses shine light on loosened regulations

NBC News reports on how recent bank collapses are putting a new spotlight on a Trump-era law. Trump’s former lawyer Michael Cohen spoke to a Manhattan grand jury yesterday. The Wall Street Journal has more. The Washington Post reports on how the former president’s legal problems are intensifying as he also faces a perilous moment politically. Biden approved a controversial oil project in Alaska. The Guardian has local reactions. The Wall Street Journal offers a whimsical way to build an NCAA bracket, with data.
3/14/202310 minutes, 50 seconds
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What to know about the fall of Silicon Valley Bank

Regulators are making big new moves following Silicon Valley Bank’s collapse. The Wall Street Journal has details. CNN reports on dangerous flooding in store for millions of people in California and Nevada. Vox has answers to key questions about the threats to ban TikTok in America. Apple News has the best stories on the biggest moments of the 2023 Oscars.
3/13/20239 minutes, 15 seconds
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As key jobs numbers come in, working women stand out

As new employment data comes in, a deeper look shows women are returning to the workforce and piling momentum on the hot economy. The Wall Street Journal has the story. The American who’s been held in Iran longer than any other appealed to Biden in a rare interview with CNN from the country’s most notorious prison. Reuters explains why Egypt is bringing back daylight saving time. An Oscar insider shares some of the most shocking moments in Academy Awards history on the new episode of In Conversation.
3/10/20239 minutes, 59 seconds
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Biden’s budget kicks off fight in Congress

Biden is set to unveil his budget. USA Today explains what to know. The kidnapping of four Americans in Mexico highlights the dangers of cartel violence, as NPR explains. And CNN reports on the rise of medical tourism in the country. Rising temperatures and climate change have upended ecosystems. Inside Climate News reports on how that’s resulting in more frequent clashes between humans and wildlife. Oscar nominee Ke Huy Quan is receiving lots of love from other former child actors. The Wall Street Journal talks to several of them.
3/9/202310 minutes, 53 seconds
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It’s a crucial week for the U.S. economy. Here’s why.

CNBC reports on what the Fed chair says about the economy ahead of a high-stakes jobs report. Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz will testify in the Senate later this month, as the company faces accusations of labor law violations related to union drives. Bloomberg has the story. Previously, Vox reported on the union drives. More younger patients are getting colorectal cancers. Doctors don’t understand why. The Wall Street Journal takes a look. The Washington Post explains why Utah’s Department of Natural Resources is urging residents to hunt and eat bullfrogs.
3/8/202311 minutes, 17 seconds
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Preventing the next toxic train derailment

Norfolk Southern has new safety proposals. Politico explains why they’re unlikely to satisfy the Biden administration. Meanwhile, Vox looks at what’s inside a bipartisan bill in Congress focused on train safety. Legislators voted to fix a Utah law that makes it hard for some sexual-assault survivors to sue. ProPublica has that story, along with the investigation that led to the change. America is trying to electrify but there aren’t enough electricians. The Wall Street Journal examines the problem. The Washington Post looks at why certain foods taste better the next day.
3/7/202310 minutes, 11 seconds
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Inside the “zombie war” for Ukraine’s Bakhmut

The Wall Street Journal has an in-depth look at how Russian Wagner troops are posing a unique threat to Ukrainian forces. A landmark deal has been reached to safeguard ocean life in international waters. The Washington Post has the story. The Athletic looks at why 2023 may be the year when Formula One racing breaks through with American fans. CBS News has the story of a man who found a Jurassic-era insect while shopping at Walmart.
3/6/20238 minutes, 50 seconds
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Murder convictions seal Alex Murdaugh’s downfall

Alex Murdaugh has been found guilty of murdering his wife and son in 2021. The State has full coverage. Is China providing Russia with military support? Time explains why it’s so hard to tell. A Reuters investigation finds that a shoe-recycling program created in part by U.S. chemical giant Dow seems to be falling short. Chris Rock is hosting a live Netflix special tomorrow where he’s expected to talk about being slapped by Will Smith at the Oscars. The Wall Street Journal has more.
3/3/20239 minutes, 55 seconds
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America’s growing child-labor problem

The Biden administration is cracking down on child labor following investigative reporting and an increase in violations. Reuters is on the story. The Washington Post reports on a U.S. intelligence review that says “Havana syndrome” was not caused by an energy weapon or foreign adversary. Wired explains how tech layoffs are fueling a new startup surge. DCist looks at a new reality show that partners MTV with the Smithsonian in a search for “the next great artist.”
3/2/20239 minutes, 10 seconds
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What a lawsuit against Fox is exposing about election lies

Fox News is facing a defamation suit related to the airing of false claims that the 2020 presidential election was stolen. Court documents show that top executives including Rupert Murdoch knew the claims were untrue. The Los Angeles Times has more. A pandemic-era boost to food aid is ending today, just as grocery prices remain high. ABC News talked to people affected. Iran is investigating the poisoning of hundreds of schoolgirls with toxic gas. The BBC reports. NPR looks at the company responsible for the unique patches NASA astronauts wear. 
3/1/20239 minutes, 23 seconds
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Why the Chicago mayor’s race matters nationally

Politico explains the national implications of today’s election for mayor of Chicago. A new USA Today investigation raises questions about the effectiveness of Amber Alerts in locating missing children. Adidas has truckloads of unsold Kanye West sneakers and a bunch of bad options on what to do with them. The Washington Post has the story. The Atlantic writes about why you might think you’re younger than you are.
2/28/20239 minutes, 56 seconds
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Biden’s student-loan plan faces Supreme Court showdown

The Supreme Court will this week hear two cases that could determine the fate of Biden’s plan to forgive chunks of federal student loans. Bloomberg has a preview. NBC News explains how a train derailment and release of hazardous chemicals 40 years ago holds clues for the future of East Palestine, Ohio. Texas Monthly reports on the professor who says his product cures hiccups.
2/27/20238 minutes, 21 seconds
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Looking back on one year of the war in Ukraine

It’s one year since Russia invaded Ukraine. Millions of people have been displaced, thousands of civilians have been killed, and Putin won’t take nuclear options off the table. The New Yorker has the story — and also examines how Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s leadership changed the trajectory of the war. Ozempic, a diabetes medication, has become popular as a weight-loss drug — and now diabetes patients are struggling to find it. The Wall Street Journal breaks it all down. The Washington Post reports on how the outcome of a Texas lawsuit could block access to a key abortion drug across the country.  The horror comedy film ‘Cocaine Bear‘ is in theaters starting today. Variety explains what you should know before buying your tickets. 
2/24/202312 minutes
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Understanding the latest research into long COVID

The most common, persistent, and disabling long-COVID symptoms are neurological. Scientific American explains how that’s shaping the way we think about treatment. CNN hosted a town hall for residents of East Palestine, Ohio, to question officials about the area’s recent train derailment. Vox explains how renewable energy in Europe overtook electricity from natural gas in less than a year.  Americans over 50 are picking up and crushing extreme sports like never before. The Washington Post talks with older endurance athletes, surfers, weightlifters, and more to find out why.
2/23/20239 minutes, 47 seconds
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The fight over AP African American studies goes national

A battle in Florida over an AP course in African American studies is now spilling over into other states. The Washington Post reports. Rail workers tell Vice that there were known issues with the train route where the recent Ohio derailment and toxic spill took place. Vox has stories of forgotten victims of the Adderall shortage. Data from the largest-ever trial of four-day workweeks shows that men who took part did a lot more child care. CNN breaks it down.
2/22/20237 minutes, 44 seconds
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Calls for more oversight over U.S. aid to Ukraine

The U.S. has sent tens of billions in aid to Ukraine. USA Today reports on concerns that some of it may be landing in corrupt pockets. More earthquakes hit the Turkey-Syria border region, threatening an already-struggling recovery. Reuters reports. The Supreme Court hears two cases this week that could upend the internet as we know it. CNN explains what’s at stake. Edits to Roald Dahl’s children’s books have sparked a heated debate about language. The Washington Post has the story.
2/21/202310 minutes, 28 seconds
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Biden’s surprise visit underscores U.S. support for Ukraine

CNN reports on Biden’s surprise visit to Kyiv, and on Pentagon efforts to ramp up ammunition production for Ukraine’s military. The Hechinger Report looks at why thousands of high-paying U.S. jobs that don’t require a college degree are going unfilled. The Wall Street Journal details new research that explains what makes slow-motion ads so effective at selling luxury goods.
2/20/20238 minutes, 58 seconds
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DeSantis’s education moves and the backlash, explained

USA Today reports on protesters who are challenging Florida governor Ron DeSantis’s moves to ban an AP course on African American studies and gut college diversity programs. CNN has key takeaways from a Georgia grand-jury report on Trump and the 2020 election. The seven states that depend on water from the Colorado River are arguing over supply, as levels get dangerously low. The Los Angeles Times has the story. Don’t lose your credit card. Getting a new one could take months. The Washington Post explains why.
2/17/20239 minutes, 30 seconds
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How one Turkish town survived the earthquakes with no deaths

Hundreds of residents packed a gym in East Palestine, Ohio, to question officials after a train derailment and fire released toxic chemicals. Reuters is on the story. Vox tackles the question of who is responsible for buildings in Turkey being unable to stand up to the earthquakes. NBC visits one tiny Turkish city that avoided the death and destruction. The Atlantic looks at how ChatGPT and similar A.I. technology could destabilize white-collar work.  The women's field-hockey coach for the University of North Carolina is a 22-year-old who just finished playing for the team. Sports Illustrated spoke to her.
2/16/20239 minutes, 29 seconds
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Inside the environmental disaster threatening a U.S. town

NPR reports on how residents of East Palestine, Ohio, are concerned for their health after a train derailment and fire led to a release of toxic chemicals. For some Michigan State students who lived through Monday’s mass shooting, it wasn’t the first they’d experienced. NBC is on the story. Meanwhile, a Washington Post analysis finds that more than 338,000 U.S. children have been exposed to gun violence at school since 1999. NATO says a major new Russian offensive is underway, while Ukraine wants the West to provide it with fighter jets. The Wall Street Journal has more. The Washington Post looks into the mystery of the disappearing vacation day.
2/15/20239 minutes, 44 seconds
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Syrians feel forgotten. These are their earthquake stories.

Aid has been slow to reach earthquake survivors in Syria. But one NPR reporter did and is telling their stories. The Washington Post investigates how the NFL avoids paying disabled players — with the help of their union. In Conversation explores how money can ruin marriages, with tips on how to avoid common problems.
2/14/202312 minutes, 26 seconds
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The U.S. keeps shooting down UFOs. What’s going on?

A U.S. fighter jet shot down an airborne object over Lake Huron yesterday, in the fourth such recent incident. CNN has details. The death count keeps rising from the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, as aid workers try to protect survivors from the bitter cold. Reuters is covering developments. Vox reports on the biggest animal-welfare crisis you may never have heard of. Apple News has collected the best Super Bowl coverage, including the Kansas City Chiefs’ win over the Philadelphia Eagles, Rihanna’s halftime performance, and the very expensive ads.
2/13/20239 minutes, 36 seconds
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They survived ongoing civil war. Now they face earthquakes.

Syrians have been displaced many times in their country’s decade-long civil war. This week’s earthquakes are making the situation worse. The Washington Post reports. Vox has a step-by-step guide to a new federal program that allows Americans to sponsor refugees from all over the world and help them resettle in the U.S. Apple News has everything you need to know about the Super Bowl as the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Kansas City Chiefs. Rihanna talked to Apple Music about how headlining the Super Bowl stage is personal.
2/10/20239 minutes, 17 seconds
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Earthquake victims say aid is too slow

Syrians say earthquake relief isn’t reaching them fast enough. CNN looks at how aid is being distributed. California wants to lower the price of insulin by producing its own. Vox explains the state’s plan. They depend on Machu Picchu to survive. They shut it down anyway. The Washington Post tells their story. Donna Kelce will make history as the first mom to have two sons play against each other in the Super Bowl. NBC talked to her.
2/9/202311 minutes, 2 seconds
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Can Biden get his State of the Union proposals passed?

An Apple News collection has what you need to know about the deadly earthquakes in Turkey and Syria — and the desperate search for survivors. The Wall Street Journal recaps key moments from Biden’s State of the Union speech. An ex-Memphis police officer took and shared photos of Tyre Nichols after the beating, documents say. USA Today has the story. U.S. intelligence officials said the Chinese balloon shot down on Saturday was part of a vast spying operation that has spanned five continents over several years. The Washington Post explains. LeBron James passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA's all-time scoring leader. ESPN has more.
2/8/202312 minutes, 17 seconds
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Inside the urgent search for earthquake survivors

The Washington Post reports on the international effort underway to find survivors and prevent a broader humanitarian crisis after powerful earthquakes struck Turkey and Syria. The Post also explains how to help people affected by the disaster. USA Today previews Biden’s State of the Union address. A neo-Nazi leader was among two people arrested over a plot to attack Baltimore’s power grid. NBC News has the story. The Los Angeles Times reports on how Lakers ticket prices are skyrocketing as LeBron James nears a career scoring record. Despite a near-fatal stabbing and decades of death threats, Salman Rushdie won’t stop telling stories. He gave his first interview since the attack to the New Yorker.
2/7/202312 minutes, 13 seconds
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Why the China balloon spying story isn’t over

The Wall Street Journal reports on new intelligence revelations about prior Chinese balloon incursions over the U.S. NPR examines how limited obesity training in medical school leaves docs ill-prepared to help patients. A biologist talks to Vox about the real-life fungal infections that inspired ‘The Last of Us.’ Rolling Stone recaps the big moments from this year’s Grammys, including Beyoncé making history, an award for an Iranian protest song, and more.
2/6/20239 minutes, 33 seconds
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Why we’re all implicated in the “shoplifting epidemic”

Heard that there’s a spike in shoplifting? The actual story is far more complicated, and more interesting. New York Magazine tells it. Democrats are set to vote on a primary schedule reshuffle that could have major effects on the 2024 presidential race. Reuters explains what’s going on. Wired reports on how activists are worried that Iran’s government is using facial-recognition technology to help it crack down on protesters.
2/3/202312 minutes, 52 seconds
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Inside the GOP’s struggle to move past Trump

Lots of Republicans want Donald Trump to disappear from politics. Their main strategy is hope. The Atlantic explains. CNN has a rare look inside a brutal Russian mercenary army, in an interview with a former commander who fled the battlefield in Ukraine. WNBA players say they should have similar access to private jets as their NBA counterparts. USA Today looks at the issue. You might be wasting money, time, and energy on your home appliances. The Washington Post has tips on how to get the most out of them.
2/2/202311 minutes, 27 seconds
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How to stop violent crime before police arrive

Community-based crime-reduction programs are attempting to stop violence before it happens. The New Yorker and ProPublica report on the challenges these efforts face. Monday’s deadly suicide bombing in Pakistan highlights the multiple crises the country is facing right now. The Guardian explains. Against the odds, searchers found a tiny, dangerous radioactive capsule that had gone missing along a long stretch of road in Australia. The BBC has the story. Airlines are upgrading their Wi-Fi service. The Washington Post asks whether it would really be a good thing if we can’t be offline while flying
2/1/202310 minutes, 50 seconds
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Why Florida’s governor wants an AP course banned

The Washington Post explains the growing backlash against Florida governor Ron DeSantis’s decision to block an AP course on African American studies. Things are hard out there for job seekers. Vox details how the job-interview process keeps getting longer, while the Wall Street Journal looks into the proliferation of hiring scams. The Academy is looking into whether Andrea Riseborough’s surprise Oscar nomination for Best Actress came after a campaign that broke rules. The BBC has the story.
1/31/202310 minutes, 53 seconds
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New calls for change after Tyre Nichols’s killing

The Memphis Police Department disbanded its controversial SCORPION unit after Tyre Nichols’s death. USA Today explains why. The Washington Post has family remembrances of Nichols. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting the Middle East as new violence has flared between Israelis and Palestinians. The Guardian has more. ABC details the FDA’s plans to ease blood-donation restrictions on gay and bisexual men. The Philadelphia Eagles will face the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl. ESPN has a preview. Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka are the new Australian Open champions. Sports Illustrated has key tournament takeaways.
1/30/20239 minutes, 48 seconds
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Former officers face murder charges in Tyre Nichols’s death

Former Memphis police officers face second-degree murder charges in the death of Tyre Nichols, as the nation braces for the release of video of the violent encounter. CNN has details. The Los Angeles Times and San Francisco Chronicle tell the stories of those who died in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay. The Monterey Park victims died on a dance floor. The Times also explains the importance of ballroom dancing to older Asian American immigrants. The Chronicle also reports on how the shootings at the farms are leading to a new focus on conditions for farmworkers. In Conversation looks at the real problem with elite-college admissions. Pizza boxes haven’t changed in 60 years. The Atlantic explains why they’re bad for the quality of your pie.
1/27/202310 minutes, 57 seconds
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The bill that could boost starting teacher salaries to $60K

A new federal bill aims to raise teachers’ starting salaries to $60,000. The Christian Science Monitor has the story. CNN looks at the potential impact of sending U.S. and German tanks to Ukraine to fight Russia. An author used A.I. to write and illustrate a children’s book. Human artists aren’t happy. The Washington Post reports. Vox explains why more people are using subtitles when watching TV and movies at home.
1/26/202311 minutes, 2 seconds
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Reconsidering gun laws after California’s mass shootings

California has low levels of gun violence and strict gun-control laws. Vox looks into why those laws didn’t stop recent mass shootings. CNN reports that classified documents were found at the Indiana home of former vice president Mike Pence. The Wall Street Journal looks at how chaotic White House transitions and wide-reaching classification policies make it difficult to track government secrets. The State has key details in the case of Alex Murdaugh, the prominent South Carolina resident accused of killing his wife and son. The Hollywood Reporter explains how to cast and direct a film where a donkey is the main character.
1/25/202310 minutes, 35 seconds
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Deadly shootings shock Asian American communities

At least seven people were shot to death in Half Moon Bay, California. CNN is covering the story. ABC7 Los Angeles reports on how the Asian American community of Monterey Park, California, is working to move forward following the mass shooting there. The Wall Street Journal takes a look at the failed promise of online mental-health treatment. The Senate is holding hearings today on Ticketmaster’s failures over the sale of Taylor Swift tickets, and its market power. Variety has the story. Everyone hates Ticketmaster. The Los Angeles Times asks, is everyone wrong?
1/24/202312 minutes, 3 seconds
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New details in the deadly California mass shooting

The Los Angeles Times lays out what’s known about the deadly Lunar New Year mass shooting in Monterey Park, California. Following the overturning of Roe, abortion-rights activists are focusing on states. USA Today reports on their marches around the country yesterday. Meanwhile, the Atlantic looks into what opponents of abortion rights are doing. A longtime observer writes in the Atlantic about how the Supreme Court justices don’t seem to be getting along very well. The prestigious Hawaii big-wave competition the Eddie returned after a seven-year hiatus. The Evening Standard has the story.
1/23/202312 minutes
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The charges Alec Baldwin faces over the ‘Rust’ shooting

Alec Baldwin and the weapons handler on the ‘Rust’ film set are facing charges of involuntary manslaughter in the deadly shooting. The Los Angeles Times has details. California’s extreme weather is almost over. But few homeowners there have flood insurance, meaning they could struggle to pay for cleaning up. Grist has the story. Vox’s Recode reports on the growing prospect of TikTok being banned in the U.S.  The Wall Street Journal explains why it’s the most wonderful time of year for goats, who enjoy eating discarded Christmas trees.
1/20/20239 minutes, 53 seconds
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Understanding the debt-ceiling stalemate in Congress

The Biden administration and House Republicans are still far apart on a deal to raise the debt limit and avoid a messy default, Politico reports. After lifting its strict lockdown policies, China has sharply revised its COVID death toll for the latest outbreak up to 60,000. Many experts think the true number is higher. The Washington Post has the story. NPR looks at how a new suicide hotline has shown some promising results.
1/19/202311 minutes, 37 seconds
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New details on former GOP candidate accused of shootings

A former Republican candidate in New Mexico has been charged with masterminding a series of shootings targeting Democratic lawmakers’ homes. USA Today examines the case. Vice is covering a case in U.S. federal court where a former top law-enforcement official in Mexico is accused of helping the drug trafficking he was supposed to prevent. The Wall Street Journal reports that Microsoft says it’s laying off 10,000 people, as the technology sector continues to shed jobs. CBS News explains why eggs are so expensive right now.
1/18/20239 minutes, 7 seconds
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Why Elon Musk is in court over tweets

Elon Musk is heading to court in a case that goes back to a series of tweets about Tesla from 2018. The Wall Street Journal explains. Defector argues that Damar Hamlin’s injury is a moment to rethink health care for NFL players. The Washington Post reports on why tens of thousands of Israelis are taking to the street to protest their country’s new government. Novak Djokovic’s road to potential redemption begins now at the Australian Open. ESPN has the story.
1/17/20239 minutes, 53 seconds
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Why Western tanks could transform the war in Ukraine

The Wall Street Journal explains the importance of the U.K.’s promise to send tanks to Ukraine. Searchers now have the voice and flight data recorders from the plane in the deadly Nepal crash, Reuters reports. China has reported nearly 60,000 COVID-related deaths since early December. NBC News has the story. More severe weather struck California, but the Los Angeles Times says forecasters see a break later in the week. Biden commemorated Martin Luther King Jr. at Dr. King’s Atlanta church. ABC News has the key moments. Evanston, Illinois, launched a reparations program for Black residents. Most of the promised funds haven’t been distributed. The Washington Post looks at the plan’s impact. The Atlantic explores how technology and the pandemic made tipping super weird.
1/16/20239 minutes, 55 seconds
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Why you’re hearing so much about gas stoves right now

Vox explains the uproar over gas-stove regulation. The man accused of killing four Idaho college students appeared in court yesterday. The Idaho Statesman has the story. NPR covers a new report showing the ozone layer is on track to recover. Black coaches are still underrepresented in the NFL. In Conversation talks to one of the authors of a hard-hitting investigation into this persistent problem.
1/13/202310 minutes, 29 seconds
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Who’s accountable when a 6-year-old shoots a teacher?

NPR looks at the difficult questions the justice system is facing in the case of a 6-year-old school-shooting suspect in Virginia. The Hill reports that a search by Biden’s legal team uncovered more classified documents in his Delaware home. More severe winter weather is headed for California. CNN has details. The Wall Street Journal reports on the broader impact on the FAA glitch that grounded flights. The New Yorker embedded with foreign volunteer fighters to tell stories from the front lines of the war in Ukraine. Starting tonight, a green comet is passing by Earth for the first time in 50,000 years. Insider explains how to watch for it.
1/12/20239 minutes, 6 seconds
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California braces for more deadly storms

California is bracing for more damage from another round of powerful winter storms, after already suffering severe flooding, extreme winds, and mudslides. The Los Angeles Times is on the story. CNN explains the major differences between the Biden classified-documents case and Trump’s hoarding of secret records. Hundreds of flights across the U.S. were delayed or canceled because of an FAA computer outage. NBC has details. The Washington Post reports on a new study that suggests the T. rex may have been a lot smarter than many people previously thought.
1/11/20239 minutes, 30 seconds
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What to know about Biden’s new immigration moves

Biden visited the southern border Sunday and is meeting with North American leaders this week in Mexico City, amid criticism of his immigration policy. The Texas Tribune has the story. Vanity Fair discusses the impact of Prince Harry’s bombshell memoir. The Wall Street Journal explains why public schools lost more than a million students during the pandemic.   Sports Illustrated reports on positive developments in Damar Hamlin’s recovery. Fox Sports has key takeaways from Georgia’s 65-7 national-championship win over TCU.
1/10/20239 minutes, 30 seconds
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How Trump and allies are connected to Brazil’s unrest

Hundreds of people were arrested in Brazil after supporters of former president Jair Bolsonaro attacked government buildings. The BBC reports on the aftermath, and explains the Trump connection. The Federal Trade Commission wants to do away with noncompete clauses for workers. The Washington Post has more.  The Atlantic looks at how better architecture can play a role in preventing suicides. The world’s first vaccine for honey bees received U.S. government approval. The Independent lays out how it works.
1/9/20238 minutes, 19 seconds
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How the historic House-speaker stalemate could end

Kevin McCarthy is still not speaker of the House, despite multiple attempts to elect him this week. Vox explains the ways the stalemate could end, while the Washington Post reports on how C-SPAN’s live coverage of the proceedings has given Americans insight into a process they don’t typically see.  Biden will award the Presidential Citizens Medal —  the second-highest civilian honor in the country — to officers who defended the U.S. Capitol during the January 6 attack. ABC has the story.  A past domestic-violence allegation recently surfaced against the coach of the U.S. men’s soccer team. ESPN reports that the source was the mother of a benched player. Apple News sports editor Shaker Samman joins us to discuss the story.  This week’s In Conversation sees one longtime journalist explores what it means to retire, and how to be emotionally ready.
1/6/202311 minutes, 59 seconds
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Damar Hamlin’s collapse tests NFL’s mental-health commitment

The Wall Street Journal reports that some NFL athletes are reluctant to play after Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed during a game and received emergency treatment on live television. The Los Angeles Times has the latest on the extreme winter storms slamming California.  The expertise of coroners — who investigate the cause of criminal and unexplained deaths — varies dramatically across the country. In some cases, they’re not required to have ever taken a science course. Kaiser Health News looks at why.   The Washington Post details the long-term health benefits of participating in “Dry January,” a monthlong abstention from alcohol, while NPR argues that we’re living in a golden age for drinkers of nonalcoholic beer, wine, and spirits.
1/5/202310 minutes, 24 seconds
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Why the House still has no speaker — and what happens next

After three rounds of voting, Rep. Kevin McCarthy fell short of earning enough votes to secure the House Speaker position. The Hill explains how the failure has embarrassed GOP lawmakers and delayed the 118th Congress.  After lying about his personal background and professional experience, Rep.-elect George Santos is set to be sworn in as a member of Congress. The Washington Post looks at his efforts to deceive voters and the possible punishment he may face. The Post also explains why prosecutors in Brazil are reopening a criminal fraud case against Santos from over a decade ago. The Wall Street Journal looks at how blurred lines between video games and gambling may have contributed to an increase in addictive behavior among young men and boys. In 1923, experts made predictions for what the world would look like 100 years later, including forecasts of 300-year lifespans and four-hour workdays. NPR looks at which came true. 
1/4/202311 minutes, 14 seconds
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Inside Kevin McCarthy’s scramble to win House speaker

The House of Representatives votes on a new speaker today. How it will go is anyone’s guess. The Wall Street Journal explains. Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest in Monday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals and is hospitalized in critical condition. ESPN is tracking his health status.  The number of babies being born is expected to increase following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. The Atlantic warns that the surge in births will be concentrated in states with poor infant and maternal health outcomes.  Studies suggest that practicing optimism can help keep our bodies healthier. Kaiser Health News explains how. 
1/3/202311 minutes, 8 seconds
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How Congress is overhauling retirement-saving rules

The Washington Post reports on the final January 6 committee report, the Senate’s vote to pass a spending deal to avoid a government shutdown, and the changes to retirement-savings policy included in that bill. Recode reports on Elon Musk’s controversial leadership of Twitter. Time looks at the legacy of Dr. Anthony Fauci, as he prepares to step down from his government post after decades leading the fight against infectious diseases including HIV/AIDS and COVID. The Wall Street Journal reveals how “white elephant” gift exchanges got that name.
12/23/202211 minutes, 52 seconds
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The Arctic blast pummeling the U.S.

Reuters reports on the winter storm that’s bringing dangerous conditions across the country and threatening holiday travel. The Atlantic explains the obvious answer to homelessness and why everyone’s ignoring it. The Wall Street Journal looks at the Taliban move to bar Afghan women and girls from schooling. BBC News looks at protests against the move. MarketWatch has the story of why we’re seeing more Hanukkah movies lately. Vulture categorizes the 153 new holiday movies out this year.
12/22/20229 minutes, 37 seconds
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As Zelenskyy meets Biden, a look at a key Ukraine battle

As Ukrainian president Zelenskyy visits Washington, Reuters analyzes the fierce battle for the eastern city of Bakhmut. Politico has a preview of today’s final report from the January 6 committee. Read more at Bloomberg, including the document’s executive summary. Stat investigates why incarcerated people keep dying from hepatitis C, despite the existence of an effective cure. The Washington Post breaks down research that shows that you don’t need to drink eight cups of water a day.
12/21/20229 minutes, 29 seconds
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What’s next for immigration after a big Supreme Court move

The January 6 panel said Trump should be charged with four crimes related to the Capitol attack. Reuters has details. USA Today reports on the Supreme Court temporarily pausing the lifting of Title 42, a Trump-era immigration policy targeted by the Biden administration. Meanwhile, many American communities say they’re struggling to provide for incoming migrants. The Texas Tribune describes the situation in El Paso. China is experiencing a COVID surge that could see 800 million people infected over the next few months. NPR has the story. Bloomberg crunches the numbers on how the global bird-flu outbreak is helping drive up the cost of eggs. And Vox asks: Why don’t we vaccinate more chickens and turkeys? ‘Titanic’ director James Cameron is sick of hearing fans complain that Jack didn’t have to die. He tells the Toronto Sun that he has scientific proof that Jack and Rose couldn’t have both survived the shipwreck.
12/20/202210 minutes, 59 seconds
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A World Cup final that lived up to the hype

Argentina defeated France in a thrilling World Cup final. After the Whistle recaps a memorable end to the tournament. The final public hearing of the January 6 committee is expected to include a vote on whether to recommend that Trump be prosecuted. Bloomberg has more. Even though billions were pledged to bolster Puerto Rico’s infrastructure, residents continue to lose water and power after hurricanes. The Washington Post investigates. A new law in France requires owners to cover large parking lots with solar panels. Time break down what that would look like in America.
12/19/20229 minutes, 11 seconds
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What microplastics are and why you should worry

Microplastics are everywhere. This week’s In Conversation discusses what that means for your health. The Wall Street Journal examines alleged campaign-finance violations by disgraced crypto star Sam Bankman-Fried. Online retailers have many tricks to get you to buy more. Vox has tips on how to avoid being manipulated. After the Whistle previews the World Cup final between France and Argentina.
12/16/202210 minutes, 45 seconds
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More severe weather expected after deadly tornadoes

As tornadoes rip through the South, CNN reports on how the climate crisis may be changing the way they behave. USA Today looks at Biden’s announcement of trade and infrastructure investments in Africa, which took place at a summit with the continent’s leaders. NPR explains how the event comes as the leaders are also being heavily courted by China, Russia, and other nations. The Atlantic breaks down why the housing market is so tough right now. Have you ever wondered what Mars dust devils sound like? Popular Science has the tape, and explains why scientists are so excited.
12/15/20228 minutes, 21 seconds
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How Washington’s failures exacerbated the fentanyl crisis

A Washington Post goes inside U.S. government failures to address the fentanyl crisis — and the missteps that allowed it to get significantly worse. Ten years after the Sandy Hook shooting, gun-safety advocates can point to some wins. NBC News takes stock, while the Trace looks at how victims’ families turned their grief into advocacy. Babies who were born into pandemic lockdowns and extreme-hygiene rules will have different microbiomes. But does different mean bad? The Atlantic has the story. There’s a new phenomenon in air travel: the holiday-travel blob. And airlines and hotels are ready to cash in. Wired explains.
12/14/202212 minutes, 2 seconds
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FTX founder charged with defrauding investors

Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of the collapsed FTX cryptocurrency exchange, was arrested in the Bahamas and will face criminal charges from U.S. prosecutors. The Washington Post has the story. The Guardian reports on new civil charges from the SEC saying Bankman-Fried defrauded investors and customers. The Washington Post reports on a breakthrough in the quest to harness nuclear fusion for mass consumption. Vox reports on the upswing in pedestrian fatalities, which has come as vehicles have got larger while U.S. city design continues to prioritize drivers over those on foot. After the Whistle breaks down everything you need to know about the World Cup semifinals. 
12/13/202211 minutes, 10 seconds
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New drone strikes reveal growing Russia–Iran military ties

NBC reports on drone strikes by Russia that plunged more than 1.5 million people in Odesa, Ukraine, into darkness over the weekend. The Wall Street Journal explores warnings from U.S. officials that military ties between Russia and Iran are deepening.  Vox explains why the U.S. keeps running out of medicine.  The Atlantic pays tribute to Grant Wahl, the renowned American soccer journalist, who died covering the World Cup from Qatar. The Washington Post reports on changes in animals’ mating behavior as climate change warms the planet.
12/12/202210 minutes, 4 seconds
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Iran escalates plots to kidnap, assassinate critics

Western intelligence officials say Iran is escalating efforts to kidnap and assassinate journalists, activists, and government officials who have spoken out against the regime. The Washington Post has the story. Kyrsten Sinema talks to Politico about switching her party affiliation from Democrat to independent. The move is shaking up the Senate. Thousands of nursing homes across the U.S failed to meet federal staffing requirements, putting residents at risk. A USA Today investigation finds that nearly all of them are getting away with it. NPR explains why South Koreans are about to instantly get a year younger. Yahoo Sports ranks the World Cup quarterfinalists.
12/9/202212 minutes, 10 seconds
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WNBA star Brittney Griner freed in prisoner swap

WNBA star Brittney Griner has been released from Russian detention in a prisoner swap. She is now in U.S. custody. CBS has the story.  The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case that could impact 2024 races. Reuters reports on how justices reacted. Peru’s president was removed from office and charged with “rebellion” after attempting to shut down Congress. The Guardian reports from Lima. A Washington Post reporter investigates a string of overdose deaths in her hometown of Greenville, North Carolina. Hyperallergic has some things to consider before you jump on the A.I.-portrait trend.
12/8/202211 minutes, 51 seconds
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What Raphael Warnock’s win means for the Senate and Georgia

Incumbent Democrat Raphael Warnock won Georgia’s Senate runoff election. The Los Angeles Times takes a look at what that means. A jury found the Trump Organization guilty of tax fraud for engaging in a 15-year scheme in which top executives accepted off-the-books perks. Bloomberg has the story. Meanwhile, Vox argues that while the case may be embarrassing for Donald Trump, his real legal dangers lie elsewhere. A major climate conference that begins today aims to stop the decline of ecosystems and wildlife. Vox lays out its goals. The Atlantic explains why most food-expiration dates are actually meaningless.
12/7/202210 minutes, 22 seconds
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Georgia voters pick their next senator: Warnock or Walker

Voters in Georgia are heading back to the polls to decide the final Senate contest of the year, as Sen. Raphael Warnock faces Republican challenger Herschel Walker in a runoff. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has been following both candidates’ campaigns.  Venice was recently saved from a flood by an engineering marvel. The Washington Post reports on the expensive barrier system — and warns that rising sea levels mean it is not a permanent solution. Taylor Swift fans are suing Ticketmaster after the presale for the singer’s upcoming tour crashed the site, leaving fans waiting for hours and many without the coveted tickets. The Verge has the story.  Bloomberg Businessweek breaks down how Duolingo distinguished itself by gamifying language-learning, and its struggles to to turn free users into paying customers.
12/6/202210 minutes, 43 seconds
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Iran official’s claims of change spark hope, skepticism

CNN reports on skepticism in and out of Iran over comments from a key official that the hijab law is under review and the feared “morality police” have been disbanded. Unusual shooting attacks targeting power stations left tens of thousands of people without electricity in North Carolina. The Charlotte Observer has the story. Dave Matthews took to the stage to support Raphael Warnock ahead of Georgia’s Senate runoff. New York Magazine explains why so many Democratic candidates have been calling on the jam-band icon to rally voters. The Wall Street Journal looks at kids who’ve made their families millions by playing with toys in YouTube videos.
12/5/20228 minutes, 37 seconds
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Why Biden’s student-loan relief plan is in danger again

The Supreme Court is putting Biden’s student-loan forgiveness plan on hold until it can hear a challenge to its legality, ABC News reports. USA Today looks at legislation that could help borrowers in a different way, by changing how people with debt can save for retirement. CBS News reports on Biden’s proposal for a major shake-up to the presidential primary calendar. NPR goes inside scientists’ efforts to save Florida's coral reef before it's too late. National Geographic reports on the legend of a demon cat who is said to have haunted the U.S. Capitol for more than 100 years.
12/2/20229 minutes, 33 seconds
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Why Biden asked Congress to stop a rail strike

NPR reports on how Congress is moving to block a strike by railway workers, and Politico goes inside Biden’s decision to go against key union allies on the issue. Migrant workers who helped build Qatar’s World Cup infrastructure want compensation for the dangerous and sometimes deadly conditions they experienced. USA Today spoke to some. People say they’re worried about a recession in America, but they’re still spending. The Washington Post explains how economists are watching that disconnect for signals as to where things may go. Want a four-day workweek? Show this Bloomberg article to your boss.
12/1/202211 minutes, 34 seconds
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What the Oath Keepers guilty verdict means for Jan. 6 cases

Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes was convicted of seditious conspiracy, in the highest-profile Capitol-attack case yet. CNN has the story. NBC reports on how top Democrats in the House are stepping down from key posts to make way for younger politicians, and how House Republicans are battling over who will lead them when they take over the chamber. Decades after the Americans With Disabilities Act became law, many people with disabilities say much of medical care is still inaccessible to them. The Atlantic and Undark detail the problems. Our soccer podcast After the Whistle With Brendan Hunt and Rebecca Lowe looks at how the U.S. team’s narrow win over Iran has kept the Americans in the tournament.
11/30/202212 minutes
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The U.S. faces Iran in a politically charged World Cup game

The U.S. faces Iran today in a World Cup match that has political implications that go far beyond the game itself. CNN has the story. USA Today reports on the Supreme Court’s first major immigration case of the term, in a case that could test the limits of Biden’s executive power. The number of Americans attending college is about to crash. Vox explains how that will change higher education forever. Shirley Wheeler had an illegal abortion in 1970 — and was charged with manslaughter. In Conversation explores how Wheeler’s case is a warning of what’s to come after the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
11/29/202210 minutes, 43 seconds
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Why the Georgia Senate runoff matters

The Hill looks at what early voting numbers tell us about the Georgia Senate runoff. And Vox explains why the contest matters, even after Democrats have clinched Senate control. Protests have erupted across China against strict COVID-lockdown and quarantine policies. CNN has journalists on the ground. Married couples are richer than cohabiting unmarried couples. The Wall Street Journal looks into why. Bloomberg Businessweek explores how seizing a Russian superyacht is much more complicated than you think.
11/28/20229 minutes, 45 seconds
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A look ahead at a divided Washington

Republicans will have a slim majority in the House. The Wall Street Journal looks at their goals and how a divided Washington could run. Elon Musk says Twitter employees need to be “extremely hardcore.” The Guardian reports on how tons of people are quitting. Time profiles a Native American chef who’s working to get more people aware of her culture’s cuisine and the true story of Thanksgiving. The World Cup begins this weekend. The Apple News Original podcast After the Whistle With Brendan Hunt and Rebecca Lowe has you covered on how to act at a watch party.
11/18/20228 minutes, 57 seconds
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What Dems want done in their last weeks with House control

A bill protecting marriage-equality rights passed a key Senate hurdle. Grid explains what’s in it. Democrats have a lot more they want to get done before they lose control of the House. Vox takes a look. Wired reports on how Qatar will be using an unprecedented level of surveillance at the World Cup. Fast-fashion companies promote recycling programs for old clothes. According to Bloomberg Businessweek, mostly the practice ends up overwhelming developing countries with trash. Who’s legally the “Queen of Christmas?” Not just Mariah Carey, apparently. The Washington Post has the story.
11/17/202212 minutes, 4 seconds
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He’s running. What next for investigations into Trump?

Former president Donald Trump, who tried to overturn the results of the 2020 election, said he’s running again in 2024. The Washington Post covers both the announcement and his ongoing legal baggage, which includes an investigation into his handling of classified documents. A missile killed two people in Poland, near the Ukrainian border. NATO says it likely came from Ukrainian forces defending against Russian attacks. CNBC is on the story. Tens of thousands of tech-industry workers have been laid off, as some companies in the sector struggle. NPR has more. Turkey is more expensive this year, which has some people rethinking what to put on the table for Thanksgiving. America’s Test Kitchen and KCRW have some alternative ideas.
11/16/20229 minutes, 41 seconds
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Why abortion-rights activists are taking the fight to states

Apple News has the latest election results, along with analysis. And NPR looks at how ballot-measure wins have abortion-rights advocates looking to do more in other states. The Washington Post reports on how protesters arrested in Iran face a court system stacked against them. A nudge by the Biden administration helped Ukraine change a key condition for peace talks with Russia. Politico explains. Smithsonian has the story of how NASA’s latest mission honors a champion for diversity in space exploration.
11/15/202210 minutes, 45 seconds
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After disappointing midterms, new GOP criticism of Trump

Disappointing midterm results have some Republicans blaming Trump for losses — and searching for an alternative presidential candidate for 2024. The Washington Post takes a look. CNN reports on Biden’s first face-to-face meeting as president with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. We have vaccines for COVID and the flu, so why not the common cold? Popular Science explains. The Los Angeles Times examines the surprisingly dangerous love lives of tarantulas.
11/14/20229 minutes, 39 seconds
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How strong youth turnout affected the midterms

Forbes crunches the numbers on how young voter turned out in the midterms, and identifies the issues that motivated them. Biden is in Egypt for a major climate conference, where some delegates want the U.S. to do more to cut emissions. The Washington Post reports on new research showing the world has less than a decade to avert catastrophe. The Wall Street Journal and Reuters report on the collapse of FTX, a popular cryptocurrency exchange that went bankrupt after the digital equivalent of a bank run this week. The Los Angeles Times tells the story of a beloved gas-station owner who is getting $1 million for selling the record-breaking Powerball ticket. Apple News In Conversation looks at the dangers of using lottery programs to fund government services.
11/11/202210 minutes, 31 seconds
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The latest election news, as Georgia heads for a runoff

Apple News has the latest election results, and what to know about the decisive ones that are still to come. The Washington Post explains why Georgia keeps having runoffs. And 538 has analysis of what may happen in the latest one, which could determine who controls the Senate. CNN reports on Hurricane Nicole, which struck Florida’s east coast early this morning. The Supreme Court is considering a case that involves adoptions of Native American children and could have far-reaching implications on tribal sovereignty. The Guardian has the story.   Technology has arrived that lets us speak virtually to our dead relatives. MIT Technology Review tested it out.
11/10/202210 minutes, 55 seconds
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Where we stand after an unusual election night

Apple News has coverage and analysis of all the races and reaction, along with up-to-the-minute results from all the contests.
11/9/202211 minutes, 55 seconds
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Republicans are already suing over mail-in ballots

The Washington Post reports on how Republicans are already issuing lawsuits to challenge ballots. CNN explains why we likely won’t know a lot of election results tonight, and why that’s normal. Marijuana could be legal in nearly half of the U.S. if voters pass ballot measures, Time reports. CNBC looks into how reparations are on the official agenda of the U.N.’s flagship climate conference for the first time. And National Geographic explains how powerful new computer modeling is making a scientific case for such payments. In the Atlantic, Ken Burns picks six photos that tell the history of American voting.
11/8/20228 minutes, 12 seconds
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Closing arguments in the midterm campaigns

The Washington Post reports on each party’s closing arguments in the midterm campaigns. NPR looks at concerns over violence around Election Day, and what’s being done to keep politicians, voters, and poll workers safe. Apple News Today has a conversation with politics watchers in the final days of the 2022 campaigns. A ProPublica and Texas Tribune investigation found that several churches appear to be breaking the law by endorsing candidates in elections — while the IRS looks the other way. As Egypt hosts world leaders for a climate conference, there’s increased focus on the country’s most famous political prisoner, who is on a hunger strike. The Washington Post has the story.
11/7/202211 minutes, 33 seconds
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After mass layoffs at Twitter, what will Elon Musk do next?

The Verge reports on Elon Musk’s latest move at Twitter: mass layoffs. NPR explains why voters in five states are deciding whether to go further than the 13th Amendment on slavery. Nearly 100,000 people have been displaced by gangs in Haiti, and cholera is spreading, the Miami Herald reports. There are also concerns about safety over Haitian skies after an attempted kidnapping of air traffic controllers. Some people who got special “temporary” tattoos have discovered that the ink is much longer-lasting than they thought. The San Francisco Chronicle spoke to them.
11/4/202210 minutes, 29 seconds
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Which party will control Congress? Three experts weigh in.

This episode is part of a special series from Apple News Today exploring the lead-up to the 2022 midterm elections. Which party will control Congress? What are the most crucial races to watch? What do voters say they want? Apple News editor Gideon Resnick put these questions and more to a panel of election watchers: Amy Walter, the editor-in-chief of the Cook Political Report, Errin Haines, the editor-at-large for the 19th, and Mike Madrid, a GOP consultant and co-host of the Latino Vote podcast.
11/4/202229 minutes, 42 seconds
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Biden wants lower gas prices. Here’s why it won’t be easy.

Biden says he’ll impose higher taxes on energy companies if they don’t help lower consumer prices. Bloomberg explains why that will be a hard threat to carry out. The Wall Street Journal looks at how the U.S.-Saudi relationship is straining. The Parkland school shooter was sentenced to life in prison without parole after victims delivered emotional statements. NBC News has the story. Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front have agreed to a truce in the two-year war that displaced millions of people. The Guardian reports. Kanye West can’t sell White Lives Matter shirts without risking a lawsuit from the two Black men who own the rights to the phrase. Capital B spoke to them.
11/3/20229 minutes, 19 seconds
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Behind the spread of false theories about the Pelosi attack

CNN reports on how prominent conservatives pushed a false theory about the assault on Paul Pelosi, and has new details from law enforcement that provide hard facts about the suspect and his motivations. Politico lays out the national implications of the Texas attorney-general race. The Washington Post explains how the shortage of Black sperm donors in America is leading to difficult choices for Black women who need a donor to conceive. For Día de los Muertos, communities are honoring victims of the elementary-school shooting in Uvalde. NBC News has the story.
11/2/20229 minutes, 29 seconds
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What the housing-market shift means for you

NPR details how rising mortgage rates are affecting would-be buyers and the market overall. BuzzFeed News looks into why people are questioning the viability of homeownership. And the Wall Street Journal reports on how it’s tough out there for renters too. Hospital beds are full as children’s hospitals across the country see a surge in cases of common respiratory illnesses. Grid has the story. Apple News breaks down how the Supreme Court could reimagine the future of the Voting Rights Act. A Mondrian painting has been hanging upside down for decades. The Guardian explains why the curator isn’t flipping it.
11/1/202210 minutes, 46 seconds
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Where voting rights stand going into the midterms

A major case before the Supreme Court could impact the future of voting rights and many states will be voting after restrictive laws passed since the last presidential election. In this episode of Apple News Today’s special series exploring the most important issues affecting voters, editor Gideon Resnick talks with Janai Nelson, the president and director-counsel of the Legal Defense Fund.
11/1/202224 minutes, 37 seconds
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Fears of political violence grow after attack on Paul Pelosi

There are fears of an increase in politically motivated attacks after the husband of House speaker Nancy Pelosi was attacked in the family home. The Wall Street Journal has more. Brazil’s former president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva made a comeback win in a contentious election. The BBC has details. South Korean authorities are investigating a crowd crush during Halloween celebrations on the streets of Seoul that killed more than 150 people. The Guardian has on-the-ground reporting. The deadly collapse of a bridge in India came days after it reopened after renovations, NPR reports. Dozens of people are dead in a tropical storm in the Philippines that brought heavy rain, triggering landslides. Reuters is following the story. The Washington Post lays out how the Supreme Court will weigh the question of affirmative action in higher education in two separate cases. And it takes a closer look at the facts and history of one of the cases, brought against UNC. CNN tells the surprising rescue story of how a Colorado train passenger looked out the window and spotted a missing, injured hiker.
10/31/20229 minutes, 31 seconds
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How Elon Musk’s Twitter buy could affect elections

Bloomberg reports on Elon Musk firing top Twitter executives after closing his $44 billion deal. And the Washington Post looks at how his ownership could affect the midterm elections. Early-voting numbers are strong ahead of November 8, which may indicate massive turnout. ABC News examines the data. Apple News has full coverage of the midterms, along with details on how to vote where you live. MLB.com has key storylines to watch in the World Series as the Houston Astros take on the Philadelphia Phillies. A man played dead hundreds of times on TikTok in a macabre campaign to land a part as a corpse on a TV show or movie. It worked. The Louisville Courier-Journal tells his story.
10/28/20229 minutes, 1 second
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Hear from swing-state voters on the midterms

The Washington Post asks swing-state voters to weigh in on the midterm elections. The Wall Street Journal explains how winter could affect Russia’s war in Ukraine. A U.N. report says countries are not doing enough to fight climate change. NBC News has more. New federal money is helping schools make the switch from diesel buses to electric. CNN has the story. 
10/27/20228 minutes, 36 seconds
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Inside the post-Roe underground abortion-pill network

The Washington Post goes inside the covert network providing abortion pills to states where abortion is now banned. Rolling Stone looks at how Kanye West’s latest controversies are much more problematic than previous ones. The latest episode of Apple News Today’s special election series examines the Democrats’ mad dash to Election Day.
10/26/20229 minutes, 38 seconds
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Inside the Democrats’ mad dash to Election Day

The Democratic Party and President Joe Biden are facing a lot of headwinds going into the final weeks of the midterm campaign. In this episode of Apple News Today’s special series exploring the most important issues affecting voters, editor Gideon Resnick talks with Gabriel Debenedetti, a national correspondent for New York Magazine covering the Democratic Party.
10/26/202227 minutes, 45 seconds
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Now we know how much the pandemic hurt kids’ learning

CNN reports on new nationwide test scores from fourth and eighth graders that show major declines during the pandemic. The Wall Street Journal has what you need to know about Rishi Sunak, the U.K.’s third prime minister in seven weeks. How many Van Gogh masterpieces is one Earth worth? Vox takes a counterintuitive look at recent climate protests that targeted famous artworks. The Guardian looks at how Singapore is tackling the strange problem of an exploding otter population.
10/25/20228 minutes, 52 seconds
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New details from Ron DeSantis’s controversial voter arrests

Newly obtained video offers insights into Florida governor Ron DeSantis’s program to arrest felons who voted in the state. The Miami Herald and Tampa Bay Times have the story. The Washington Post goes inside the rescue of nearly 4,000 beagles from a breeding facility. The Guardian looks a recent study suggesting there is a potential risk that melting glaciers will release frozen viruses and bacteria into the wild. Early-Hollywood actor Anna May Wong will be the first Asian American featured on U.S. currency. NPR tells her story.
10/24/20228 minutes, 45 seconds
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What you might not know about the Iran protests

Iranians tell CNN how they were tortured by government forces for taking part in protests. In Conversation speaks to a scholar on feminist movements in Iran for insight into the country’s recent demonstrations. A Miami Herald investigation reveals new details about Florida governor Ron DeSantis’s controversial program to fly migrants from Texas to Martha’s Vineyard. Recode reports on Instagram’s new strategy to combat toxic speech on the platform: telling people not to act like jerks.
10/21/20229 minutes, 16 seconds
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Why midterms polling sites are boosting security

British prime minister Liz Truss resigned after a short and chaotic time in office. NBC News has details. Election officials are responding to threats from 2020-election deniers by beefing up security at polling places so workers and voters stay safe. Reuters is on the story. Apple News has a guide to voting in the midterms, including specifics for every state. PBS NewsHour reports on how Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure have civilians facing blackouts. Bloomberg looks at potential new steps by the E.U. to deal with the emerging energy crisis caused by Russia’s cutoff of critical gas supplies. A Washington Post investigation finds that hundreds of retired military personnel have been taking big-money jobs with foreign governments, primarily countries known for human-rights abuses and political repression. CNN has details of a new study that suggests dogs can smell stress in humans.
10/20/202210 minutes, 41 seconds
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The big IRS changes that could reduce your tax bill

The IRS is making changes in response to inflation. Barron’s explains how they could reduce your tax bill. Biden is set to announce the release of more petroleum from the strategic reserve. The bid to ease gas prices comes ahead of elections where the cost of living is expected to be a key issue. The Washington Post has the story. Politico reports on how Democrats are worried about the Oregon governor’s race, which is shaping up to be closer than many people expected. Hundreds are dead in Nigeria’s worst flooding in a decade. CNN is covering the disaster. NPR explains why palm trees are so good at surviving powerful hurricanes.
10/19/20227 minutes, 16 seconds
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How to access federal student-loan forgiveness

The website for student-loan forgiveness is now live. The L.A. Times takes a look. The 2022-23 NBA season tips off tonight. ESPN previews the new season’s contenders, stars, and big questions.    Bloomberg reports on Brazil’s upcoming presidential runoff election, where the stakes are high for just about every living thing on Earth.  In the latest episode of our special midterms series, NPR’s Sarah McCammon explains how the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade has changed the dynamic of this year’s races. 
10/18/202210 minutes, 58 seconds
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How abortion could affect the election

The Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade over the summer changing the landscape across the country for abortion access. In this episode of Apple News Today’s special series exploring the most important political issues affecting voters, editor Gideon Resnick talks with NPR’s Sarah McCammon about how abortion politics and policy have changed the dynamics in this year’s races.
10/18/202222 minutes, 26 seconds
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What a third term for China’s Xi Jinping would mean

With Xi Jinping poised to begin a likely third term as president of China, he used a speech to set out priorities for the nation. NPR has key takeaways. An NBC reporter’s comment about her interview with John Fetterman led to a media firestorm over his recovery from a stroke. New York magazine’s Rebecca Traister, who spoke with the Senate candidate for a recent profile, provides a different perspective. It’s an exciting time to be a bargain hunter: U.S. retailers are sitting on a record $732 billion of inventory — and now they’re desperate to sell. The Washington Post reports.  
10/17/20229 minutes, 6 seconds
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What to know about big developments in Trump investigations

There have been several major recent developments in the legal investigations into Trump, his family, and his businesses. NBC reports on how the January 6 committee has voted to subpoena Trump. ABC explains why the New York A.G. is seeking a preliminary injunction against him. And the Washington Post reports on the Supreme Court’s decision to deny his request for it to intervene in the legal fight over the review of classified documents seized at Mar-a-Lago. NPR examined a strange pattern and found that hoax callers are reporting nonexistent active school shooters to police.  The Washington Post reports on how so-called swatting — fake reports of violence — forced Denver to shut down all 25 public-library branches.  Self-driving cars were the future once. One former evangelist for the technology told Bloomberg Businessweek that’s no longer the case.  NPR spoke to scientists hoping to teach A.I. how to use people’s voices and breathing patterns to diagnose illness.
10/14/202211 minutes, 31 seconds
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How a secret tape of racist remarks is rocking politics

Racist remarks by prominent Latino politicians are rocking the Los Angeles City Council after secret recordings were leaked. The L.A. Times is on the story. Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones must pay nearly $1 billion in damages to Sandy Hook victims’ families for spreading falsehoods. NBC News has details. The Washington Post reports that today’s January 6 committee hearing is expected to introduce new evidence about Trump’s conduct on the day of the attack. The Atlantic explains why so many people are stealing parrots.
10/13/20227 minutes, 49 seconds
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Jake Tapper wants you to know C.J. Rice’s story

C.J. Rice was found guilty of attempted murder in South Philadelphia and is now serving up to 60 years in prison. CNN anchor Jake Tapper investigated the case and found signs of a flawed investigation and inadequate legal counsel. His story is in the Atlantic. The Washington Post reports on multiple lawsuits that are aiming to stop Biden’s plan to cancel some federal student-loan debt. Time explains why car dealers have the upper hand over buyers in today’s market — and what that means for your wallet.
10/12/202211 minutes, 36 seconds
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Why protests in Iran are gaining new energy

Amnesty International says a teenage girl was killed by security forces in Iran. Her death is giving new energy to anti-government demonstrators. The Guardian has more. And Reuters looks at why it’s important that some oil workers have reportedly joined the protests. A Supreme Court case could determine the fate of millions of pigs. Vox has the story. For the next episode of our special midterms series, Amy Gardner from the Washington Post warns Apple News Today that a majority of GOP nominees deny the 2020 results — and says that, if they win, they’ll be positioned to affect the outcome of future elections.
10/11/20229 minutes, 3 seconds
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The “stunning and sobering” number of election deniers on the ballot this November

Joe Biden won the 2020 election, but many Republican candidates are campaigning on the lie that it was stolen. What could the consequences be if they win? In this episode of Apple News Today’s special series exploring the most important political issues affecting voters, editor Gideon Resnick talks with Amy Gardner, a reporter covering voting for the Washington Post, about the 299 election deniers running in the midterms.
10/11/202220 minutes, 9 seconds
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What to know about Russia’s latest attacks on Kyiv

The Wall Street Journal reports that western Ukrainian cities such as Kyiv that have been mostly peaceful in recent months have come under attack. The Russian strikes are in retaliation for an explosion that destroyed a key bridge connecting Russia with Crimea. Harvey Weinstein’s latest trial on sexual-assault charges begins in Los Angeles today, the Guardian reports. It’s a key moment for the #MeToo movement, which was sparked by reporting on abuse allegations against him. Political misinformation is a growing problem. Vox looks at the waves of false information being aimed at Latino voters ahead of the midterm elections. Cheating scandals are rocking a variety of competitive events. The Independent looks at allegations involving judges of Irish dancing. And the Akron Beacon Journal covers a scandal where angling-contest officials found weights stuffed into fish.
10/10/20229 minutes, 44 seconds
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Biden warns of “Armageddon” amid Putin nuclear threats

The joint winners of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize are civil-rights campaigners from Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine. Reuters has the story. Biden says Putin’s nuclear threats have the world as close to “Armageddon” as it’s been since the Cuban missile crisis. NBC News reports. CNN looks into why Biden is pardoning thousands of people with marijuana convictions. The Washington Post reports that federal agents believe they have enough evidence to charge Hunter Biden on failing to report all of his income and lying on paperwork to buy a gun. This week on In Conversation, we talk to a journalist who investigated the TSA’s two-decade history. Critics say the agency has made flying much harder, but not much safer. Netflix’s top show is about serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. Vanity Fair looks at the problems of turning serial-killer stories into entertainment. ESPN breaks down everything you need to know as Major League Baseball starts its playoffs.
10/7/202210 minutes, 14 seconds
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Understanding the controversy around Herschel Walker

Republican Senate candidate Herschel Walker, an opponent of abortion rights, is alleged to have paid for an abortion years ago. The Wall Street Journal reports on how the claim — which he denies — is scrambling a tight race that could determine control of the chamber. Ian may be Florida’s deadliest hurricane since 1935. The Washington Post reports that most victims drowned, and spoke with families who are mourning loved ones. The U.S. is one of only six countries with no paid parental leave. Glamour followed eight women through their first 28 days postpartum to understand the impact that has. The Atlantic looks into why so many adults have nightmares about school, even decades after they left the classroom behind.
10/6/20229 minutes, 47 seconds
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How Iran is cracking down as protests intensify

Protests against Iran’s regime are growing. More than 130 people have died in some of the worst street violence in years. The Independent reports. USA Today examines the very unusual legal defense the Oath Keepers are using in the biggest criminal trial related to the January 6 Capitol attack so far. Yankee Aaron Judge hit his 62nd home run of the season, breaking Roger Maris’s record. ESPN has the story. Popular Mechanics goes inside the cargo-ship disaster that sank $400 million worth of exotic cars.
10/5/20228 minutes, 41 seconds
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How the 2022 midterms will test democracy

In the first episode of a special Apple News Today series, a Princeton historian explains how the 2022 midterm elections could serve as a referendum on democracy. Two American military veterans who were taken hostage by Russian forces while fighting for Ukraine spoke with the Washington Post about their time in captivity.  A new U.S. Soccer report says the women’s professional league has normalized abuse and misconduct. ESPN has the story.  Pumpkin-spice season is here. The Guardian explores how the flavoring became an American fall favorite.
10/4/202212 minutes, 39 seconds
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Election 2022 Special: What’s at stake in the midterms?

With just a few weeks to go until the midterm elections, Apple News Today is launching a special series exploring the most important political issues affecting voters. In the first episode, Apple News Today editor Gideon Resnick talks with Princeton historian Julian E. Zelizer about the erosion of democratic norms and whether our institutions are strong enough to withstand this moment.
10/4/202221 minutes, 17 seconds
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Why SCOTUS’s new term could be more impactful than its last

The Supreme Court starts a new term today. Vox argues that it could be even more consequential than the last.  As data shows that threats to Congress members are increasing, Rep. Pramila Jayapal recounts what happened when an armed man showed up at her house this summer. The Washington Post also has the story. Rescue and recovery continue to be key priorities for the Gulf Coast of Florida in the wake of Hurricane Ian. USA Today, the Miami Herald and CBS have been tracking the storm’s impact.  The National Park Service’s beloved Fat Bear Week competition is back. The Wall Street Journal previews this year’s contest and explains why so many people are enamored with the reigning champ — a four-time winner.
10/3/202210 minutes, 38 seconds
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Both Ukrainians and Russians are fleeing Putin’s war

The South Florida Sun Sentinel reports on the people dealing with the major devastation Hurricane Ian has left in its wake. As Russia moves to illegally annex territory in Ukraine, many residents are fleeing, Reuters reports. And the Washington Post details how men in Russia are escaping the country to avoid being drafted to fight Putin’s war. Kaiser Health News explains how a recent Supreme Court ruling is affecting prosecutions of doctors accused of overprescribing opioids. Her death certificate says Queen Elizabeth II died of old age — something rarely listed as a cause of death in America. The Wall Street Journal looks at how the question of how to track deaths actually affects the living. Sports Illustrated has the story of how LeBron James is getting in on the pickleball craze, with a deal to own a pro team.
9/30/20229 minutes, 22 seconds
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Tracking Ian’s path of destruction across Florida

Flooding is swamping parts of Florida after then-Hurricane Ian made landfall as one of the most powerful storms in American history. CNN reports. Incarcerated teens in Louisiana are set to be transferred to Angola, one of America’s most notorious adult prisons. The Louisiana Illuminator has the story. Vox unpacks the mystery of the suspected sabotage of underwater gas pipelines from Russia to Europe. Americans want electric cars with 300 miles of range, even though around 95% of US car trips are 30 miles or less. Bloomberg explains why that disconnect is important.
9/29/20229 minutes, 28 seconds
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Hurricane Ian tests Florida’s DeSantis

Politico looks at how Hurricane Ian presents a high-profile test for Florida governor Ron DeSantis, a potential Republican presidential contender. A bill to change how Electoral College votes are counted in presidential elections aims to prevent another attempt to overturn results. The Hill reports on how the legislation now looks to have enough Republican support to become law. The White House wants to potentially put nutritional labels on the front of food packaging. It’s among various policy ideas the administration is exploring in a major conference on hunger and nutrition in America. NPR explains the event’s significance. More men are getting an intensive surgical procedure to get taller. GQ looks into it.
9/28/20229 minutes, 5 seconds
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Florida braces for Hurricane Ian after it hits Cuba

After bringing heavy wind and rain to Cuba, Hurricane Ian takes aim at Florida. CNN is tracking the storm’s path. Money looks at what the current stock-market turmoil and recent Fed moves mean for the housing market. The Washington Post investigates into why the NFL still has very few Black head coaches, despite years of diversity programs. Icelanders throw thousands of baby puffins off cliffs at this time of year. Sound cruel? It’s actually saving the birds’ lives. NPR explains.
9/27/202210 minutes, 6 seconds
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Why protesters are taking to the streets in Iran and Russia

The Wall Street Journal has on-the ground coverage of demonstrators in Russia who are pushing back against Putin’s moves to draft people to fight in Ukraine. Marchers are protesting in cities across Iran against what some see as a return to the hard-line policies of the earliest days of the Islamic Revolution. The New Yorker explains what’s going on. Several women who worked at Tesla have filed sexual-harassment lawsuits against the corporation. Rolling Stone is telling their stories. Many American cities have tried gun buybacks as a solution to violence. Fast Company lays out research that shows they don’t seem to work. NASA is about to deliberately crash a spacecraft into an asteroid. NBC News explains how it’s a test for how to save Earth from a theoretical deadly rock from space.
9/26/20229 minutes, 6 seconds
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At U.N. assembly, world condemns Putin’s war escalation

World leaders gathered in New York this week for the U.N. General Assembly, even as Putin escalated the war in Ukraine. CNN breaks down what you need to know. Meanwhile, the Guardian reports on the humanitarian toll of the floods in Pakistan.  Insider identifies 72 Congress members who violated stock-trading law. A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to toughen the rules.  After a career that included 20 Grand Slam titles and 310 weeks as world No. 1, tennis great Roger Federer plays his last match tonight. Sports Illustrated offers a look at his legacy.  Professional baseball is preparing for players to hit some major milestones. NPR has the story, and Apple TV+ will have the highlights.
9/23/202212 minutes, 20 seconds
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Why migrants flown to Martha’s Vineyard are suing DeSantis

Three of the migrants flown by Florida governor Ron DeSantis to Martha’s Vineyard last week filed a lawsuit alleging that he and other officials tricked them into leaving Texas. The Miami Herald reports. New York attorney general Letitia James accused Donald Trump and three of his children of fraud in a civil lawsuit seeking $250 million and to bar them from leading companies based in the state. Axios has some key takeaways. And Reuters explains where things stand in the other investigations and legal cases Donald Trump faces. For years, community activists have pushed for police departments to put an end to dangerous practices such as high-speed chases and chokeholds. The Washington Post reports on how an unlikely source is now forcing the hand of some departments: insurers. The world of elite chess is embroiled in a cheating scandal that took an enigmatic new turn this week. NPR breaks it all down.
9/22/20229 minutes, 57 seconds
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Why Putin is mobilizing 300,000 Russia reserve troops

Vladimir Putin announced a partial mobilization of Russian military forces. Reuters and the Wall Street Journal report. The DOJ charged dozens of people over a massive alleged fraud scheme involving pandemic food aid intended for needy children. CNN has the story.  Protests erupted in Iran after 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died while in the custody of the country’s “morality police,” according to the Washington Post. Hadi Ghaemi, executive director at the Center for Human Rights in Iran, explains what’s going on.  “Quiet quitting” is the hottest labor narrative right now. The Atlantic argues that the concept is nothing new.
9/21/202210 minutes, 50 seconds
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As Hurricane Fiona intensifies, Puerto Ricans remember Maria

Hurricane Fiona today intensified into a Category 3 storm. The Miami Herald is tracking its impact. Off-duty police officers in St. Louis are moonlighting as private security for wealthy neighborhoods. ProPublica explains how the practice is creating two unequal levels of policing.  More children need glasses, and scientists aren’t sure why. The Atlantic breaks down the solutions scientists are pursuing to correct myopic vision. A judge vacated the murder conviction of Adnan Syed, whose case was popularized by the hit podcast ‘Serial.’ NBC has the story.
9/20/20228 minutes, 53 seconds
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The extreme weather lashing Puerto Rico, Alaska, and Japan

Hurricane Fiona knocked out power in Puerto Rico over the weekend. The Miami Herald is following the story. The Atlantic explains what long COVID has taught us about brain fog. Californians were promised that legalized cannabis would cripple the illegal market and generate billions in taxed sales. The Los Angeles Times reports on how the reality is quite different.  Scientists pumped these tomatoes full of antioxidants, giving them a purple hue. Will consumers bite? Wired explores.
9/19/202210 minutes, 34 seconds
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Hear from families caught up in immigration politics

Republican governors are still moving migrants to Democratic strongholds. NPR has the latest. School closures during the pandemic led to immeasurable learning loss. For In Conversation, an education reporter told us what needs to change. The Los Angeles Times spoke with the owners of Toyota Priuses about how the cars are being targeted for precious metals.  Scientists think Saturn’s famed rings may have formed from a lost moon. CNET has the story. 
9/16/20228 minutes, 22 seconds
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Why Democrats are helping the far right win GOP primaries

Democrats are spending big to amplify far-right GOP candidates. The Washington Post looks at why. Mississippi Today reveals text messages that show how NFL legend Brett Favre was involved in the misappropriation of welfare funds. The Wall Street Journal reports that prosecutors in Baltimore have asked a judge to vacate Adnan Syed’s conviction for the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee. Syed is serving life in prison. The BBC why the billionaire founder of outdoor-clothing retailer Patagonia is giving the business to a charitable trust.
9/15/20229 minutes, 9 seconds
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Rail workers are set to strike. How that could affect you.

CNBC breaks down how a possible rail strike could snarl American shipping — and how that would affect you. Politico reports on how Lindsey Graham’s new anti-abortion bill has many Republicans worried it could cost them critical votes in the midterm elections. There’s a drug-overdose crisis at Fort Bragg, home to some of America’s most elite troops. Rolling Stone investigates. Human skulls, mummified animals, and deadly spiders could all be under your house. The Los Angeles Times speaks to a home inspector who has seen some scary things.
9/14/20229 minutes, 27 seconds
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Signs that the Trump investigations are intensifying

CNN reports that the Justice Department has subpoenaed dozens of people in Trump's orbit in recent days as part of the January 6 probe. And Politico has the story of how Trump and the DOJ seem close to a deal on a third-party review of papers taken in the search of his Florida home. Residents of Jackson, Mississippi, still can’t drink safely from the tap. Federal investigators are looking into the failures of its water system. NBC News has the story. The Oaklandside looks at Oakland’s plan to give land rights to part of a park to Indigenous people. America has a rabid-raccoon problem. The Atlantic explains how solving it involves dropping millions of oral vaccines from the air, in flavors the wild animals want to eat.
9/13/20227 minutes, 26 seconds
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One journalist’s mission to document Russian war crimes

A veteran war correspondent is on a campaign to empower journalists to collect evidence of Russian atrocities in Ukraine in a way that could stand up in court. She wrote about it for Vanity Fair. America’s currency is strong right now, which is creating a lot of problems abroad. Marketplace explains. Scientists are developing genetically modified pigs that could one day be personalized as a particular human’s organ donor. The Wall Street Journal looks at the difficult ethical questions. Parents everywhere sing silly songs to their babies. The Atlantic looks at the benefits.
9/12/202211 minutes, 28 seconds
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How Queen Elizabeth II changed the monarchy

Apple News editors have curated the best journalism looking at the life and impact of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch. With less than two months to go until Election Day, Democrats seem to have some momentum. PBS NewsHour takes a look. The latest episode of In Conversation looks at how to do nothing. It’s part of a special series on rethinking our outlook on life, work, and relationships.
9/9/202211 minutes, 56 seconds
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Understanding America’s big electricity problem

Bloomberg reports on Californians answering a call to conserve power and major problems with the U.S. energy grid. One of America’s few all-trimester abortion clinics is set to open in Maryland. NPR reports. The NFL season begins today. The Ringer is out with predictions. New York City schools won’t have snow days this year. Their school system says virtual learning is better than canceled classes. The New York Post has the story.
9/8/20229 minutes, 48 seconds
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Uvalde families speak out on return to school

Students in Uvalde, Texas, returned to classrooms for the first time since a gunman killed 21 people at Robb Elementary in May. The San Antonio Express-News spoke with parents and kids about what it has been like. The pandemic made it harder to access professional therapists, so more people turned to social-media sources for help. The Washington Post investigates the potential benefits and risks. The WNBA’s Sue Bird is retiring a legend and future Hall of Famer. ESPN and Sports Illustrated look at her legacy. Artists are honoring the Uvalde victims by painting murals of them, with cooperation and inspiration from their families. NPR has the story.
9/7/20228 minutes, 50 seconds
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The deadly consequences of extreme heat waves

A federal judge approved Trump’s request for a special master, securing the former president a legal victory in the DOJ’s investigation into his handling of sensitive government documents. USA Today has the latest details in a roundup of major news from the holiday weekend. Twenty million U.S. homes are behind on energy bills — and hotter summers mean losing power could prove fatal for some people. Bloomberg Businessweek has the story. Extreme heat is making work more dangerous. The Washington Post reports on how industries are fighting safeguards for workers.  Some cities are better than others at enduring extreme temperatures. CNN explains what they're doing different.
9/6/202210 minutes, 32 seconds
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Biden targets Trump and GOP in midterms speech

In a prime-time address, Biden said Trump and his Republican allies are a threat to American democracy. The Wall Street Journal has key takeaways from the speech. The Washington Post explains how the red-hot labor market has been helping union organizers. The Department of Transportation has a new website to help flyers understand their rights when cancellations and delays happen. Travel + Leisure takes a look. Thousands of cinemas are offering $3 tickets Saturday. Business Insider reports on how it’s a bid to get more people back to seeing movies in theaters, which haven’t fully recovered from pandemic lockdowns.
9/2/20228 minutes, 34 seconds
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What to know about Palin’s surprise loss in Alaska

Democrat Mary Peltola defeated Sarah Palin in a closely watched special congressional election in Alaska. NBC News reports. The Washington Post explains how Biden’s student-loan forgiveness program will work, and how borrowers feel about it. Men have fewer friends than ever, and it’s harming their health. Vox illustrates the consequences. One of Hollywood's most prolific directors doesn't actually exist. Vice explains.
9/1/20227 minutes, 50 seconds
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Understanding the latest twist in the Trump papers probe

The Los Angeles Times reports on how the Justice Department says it has evidence of obstruction of its investigation into Trump’s handling of classified government documents. Water-treatment failures have residents of Jackson, Mississippi, unable to adequately wash, cook, and flush toilets. NBC News has the story. Mikhail Gorbachev is dead at 91. As the final leader of the Soviet Union, he presided over its collapse and the end of the Cold War. He also led the country’s response to the 1986 explosion at the nuclear plant in Chernobyl, Ukraine. NPR looks back at his life. Meanwhile, there are fears of another potential nuclear disaster in Ukraine, at a plant occupied by Russian troops. U.N. inspectors are trying to find out if the facility is safe. The Wall Street Journal has background. Ars Technica reports on new research that may make it possible to recycle wind-turbine blades into gummy bears and other products.
8/31/20228 minutes, 12 seconds
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America’s Afghanistan withdrawal, one year later

Twelve months on from America’s withdrawal, who’s to blame for Afghanistan’s tragedy? Everyone, Vox argues. Historic monsoon rain is threatening to put one-third of Pakistan underwater. The Guardian is covering the devastating flooding. ABC News has details of how a federal program providing free COVID home test kits is on hold because of a lack of new congressional funding. And Politico reports on how the FDA is expected to authorize new booster shots from Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech. New research into a jellyfish that can reverse its biological clock may lead to insights about human aging. The Wall Street Journal has more.
8/30/20227 minutes, 23 seconds
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Why NASA is going back to the moon

NASA postponed the Artemis 1 moon launch because of an engine problem but is expected to try again, ABC News reports. Wired explains how it could eventually lead to another moonwalk and lay the groundwork for putting astronauts on Mars. Bloomberg Businessweek investigates how deadly bacteria spread in a Similac factory — and caused the U.S. baby-formula shortage. Vox explains how California’s gas-car ban could change how every American drives. The U.S. Open will now let players be coached from the stands. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
8/29/20228 minutes, 24 seconds
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What parents need to know about school-lunch bills

An affidavit sheds new light on the FBI’s search of former president Trump’s Florida home. The Wall Street Journal reports. Students are heading back to school, but unlike the last two years, not every child is eligible for free meals. NPR reports on how the change is straining family budgets. As California experiences a severe drought, some of America’s biggest celebrities are flouting water-usage rules. The Los Angeles Times broke the story. The Wall Street Journal explains why private-equity firms are investing in car washes. This week’s In Conversation looks at wellness advice, and how to know what’s real and what’s junk science.
8/26/202210 minutes, 30 seconds
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What new trigger laws mean for abortion access

Nearly all of the country’s trigger bans on abortion will be in effect by the end of this month. The Washington Post breaks down what reproductive access will look like.  The Uvalde school board fired the police chief criticized for the slow response to the deadly shooting at Robb Elementary School. The San Antonio Express-News reports. The Los Angeles Times explains how Vanessa Bryant won a massive legal victory in a case involving the sharing of graphic photos of the helicopter crash that killed Kobe Bryant and their daughter. Ahead of the midterms, states are paying special attention to election security. Bloomberg Businessweek looks at Ohio’s effort to recruit tech professionals to combat election hacking. It costs close to $300,000 to raise a child. The Wall Street Journal spoke with families about how they’re cutting back on costs. NPR has some practical financial tips on how to prepare for a baby. Until recently, it was widely believed that there is no sound in space. The Atlantic explores how a new discovery has changed that thinking.
8/25/20229 minutes, 55 seconds
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Understanding Biden’s moves on student debt

CNN has key takeaways from election results in Florida, New York, and Oklahoma. Biden is expected today to announce details on forgiving student loans and extending a pandemic pause on repayments, Bloomberg reports. The Washington Post has exclusive reporting on intercepted communications that reveal how Russian spies failed to predict Ukraine’s strength and misled the Kremlin. As buy now, pay later services continue to grow in popularity, experts say shoppers should be informed of the risks before they use them. Vox has the story. Australia’s Channel 9 reports on a new study that reveals how wild bunnies took over the country.
8/24/20229 minutes, 34 seconds
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Why GOP insiders see Ron DeSantis as presidential material

Florida governor Ron DeSantis is spending a lot of time campaigning for Republicans in battleground states far from home. NBC reports on how this could lay groundwork for him to run for president in 2024. A New Yorker profile of DeSantis asks whether he can replace Trump as the dominant force of the GOP. USA Today explains what’s known about the videotaped police beating of a man during an arrest in Arkansas. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, OB-GYNs are reporting a surge in people requesting tubal ligations. The Washington Post has the story. The Wall Street Journal looks into why Americans are losing interest in having work friends, and what that means for the workplace.
8/23/20227 minutes, 6 seconds
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Liz Cheney says she’s going after election deniers

After losing her primary, Rep. Liz Cheney discusses her plans in a new interview with ABC News. New rules on ghost guns are set to take effect this week, which has led some sellers of parts to rush to get rid of inventory, according to the Trace. Sports Illustrated takes a look at the unusual sport of competitive lifesaving, in which swimmers race to rescue manikins. HBO broadcast the premiere of its ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel ‘House of the Dragon’ last night. Some viewers had issues with the network’s streaming service, Bloomberg reports. Recode has more on the show’s importance as the streaming industry reconsiders its business model.
8/22/20226 minutes, 21 seconds
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School’s starting. But districts are short on teachers.

Tens of thousands of teaching positions are vacant, and schools are trying unusual things to address the shortage. The Wall Street Journal takes a look. A key witness testified in the latest trial against convicted sex-offender R. Kelly. BuzzFeed News has the story. A conversation with the journalist who broke the story of R. Kelly’s abuses. CNN reports on how the American West’s historic drought is threatening the Hoover Dam’s ability to generate power for the region. The latest In Conversation looks at how uneven the share of housework still is for men and for women, and how to get to a better place.
8/19/20229 minutes, 30 seconds
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Polio is back in America. Here’s what to know.

NBC News reports on why there are new concerns about polio in America. West Texas is a very dangerous place to be pregnant. Bloomberg Businessweek explains how the area is an example of how rural communities in America have very limited medical resources for expecting parents. Ukraine has telegraphed a big counteroffensive against Russian forces for months. It may finally be happening. Politico has a reporter on the ground. American Airlines is buying 20 supersonic jets, which could potentially fly twice as fast as conventional passenger planes on some routes. But there are questions about whether this bet on the future of air travel will pay off. CNN has the story.
8/18/20229 minutes, 31 seconds
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How Trump-backed election deniers could control future votes

A new Washington Post analysis finds that GOP candidates who support Trump’s lies about the 2020 vote are winning more than half of primaries. They could hold significant power over elections if they’re voted in. The WNBA playoffs are beginning without star player Brittney Griner. Bloomberg looks at recent developments in the battle to free her from Russian custody. The Wall Street Journal reports on an FDA move that aims to lower the cost of hearing aids by allowing some to be sold over the counter. Ants can be better than chemicals at fighting pests, a study found. The Guardian takes a look.
8/17/20228 minutes, 36 seconds
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What to know about the Democrats’ sweeping climate bill

The Democrats’ climate bill favors green-energy incentives over taxes on fossil fuels. Inside Climate News explains why, while the Washington Post explores how the bill could push climate-change tech into the future. The Wall Street Journal reports on how gun politics seem to be changing in Uvalde, Texas, following the deadly mass shooting at Robb Elementary School. For months, the governors of Texas and Arizona have been sending buses full of migrants to Washington, D.C., and New York. USA Today has more. Vox explains why the very slow heartbeat of the largest animal to have ever lived has a story to tell.
8/16/202210 minutes, 3 seconds
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New fallout over classified docs found in Trump’s home

Key House Democrats are asking for a security-damage assessment after the FBI found top-secret documents in its search of Trump’s Florida home. Axios has updates. Reuters reports that acclaimed author Salman Rushdie is off a ventilator and recovering with serious injuries after being stabbed onstage in western New York state. Bloomberg explains why the snowballing U.S. rental crisis is sparing nowhere and no one. A new Apple TV+ podcast tells the story of a hidden chest containing $1 million in gold and jewels, and the treasure hunter who gave everything to find it.
8/15/20228 minutes, 39 seconds
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New details about the FBI’s raid of Trump’s Florida home

The FBI searched Trump’s home to look for nuclear documents and other items, sources tell the Washington Post. Politico has a guide to the former president’s increasing legal threats. Documents show a Trump-backed Michigan attorney-general candidate was involved in a voting-system breach, Reuters reports. A new strategy to try to extend the limited supply of monkeypox vaccines has some experts concerned, according to the Atlantic. A new In Conversation series looks at how to reimagine work, home, relationships, and more.
8/12/20229 minutes, 20 seconds
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Why an abortion case worries digital-privacy advocates

NBC News reports on how a mother and daughter were criminally charged after Facebook was ordered to turn over their chats relating to plans for an abortion. The Washington Post has tips on protecting your digital privacy. Inflation may have eased overall. But your grocery bill will still be painful. CNBC explains. School COVID-vaccine mandates are largely not happening. Vox has the story. People are trying to fight droughts by making rain via a process called cloud seeding. A Vox video shows how it works.
8/11/20229 minutes, 18 seconds
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“Something’s got to give”: Serena Williams on leaving tennis

Trump pleaded the Fifth in a deposition at the New York attorney general’s office, CNN reports. The Hill has key takeaways from the latest primaries. USA Today lays out what we know about the suspect under arrest following a string of killings of Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Writing in Vogue, Serena Williams explains why she is leaving professional tennis. The Cut introduces us to women who are taking on difficult work in Amazon warehouses in order to fund IVF treatments. A new study suggests that spiders dream. National Geographic explains why that’s a bigger deal than you might think.
8/10/202210 minutes, 25 seconds
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What to know about the FBI raid on Trump’s house

The FBI searched Donald Trump’s Florida home as part of an investigation into his handling of classified information, the Wall Street Journal reports. The Atlantic details the surprising origins and devastating impact of the Trump administration’s family-separation policy. A string of murders of Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has the community on edge. CNN breaks down what we know so far. Inflation is making back-to-school shopping painful for many families. NPR spoke to parents for some perspective.
8/9/20229 minutes, 36 seconds
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Why the new spending bill is such a big deal

Vox explains why the spending plan just passed by the Senate will be one of the biggest bills to fight climate change, ever. And Stat looks at how it will cut drug costs by finally allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices with pharma companies. Israel and the Gaza militant group Islamic Jihad called a truce after days of deadly fighting. The Wall Street Journal reports. She’s 91 — and has around $330,000 in student debt. The New Yorker goes inside the new reality of older Americans with crushing loans. A London museum will return dozens of pieces of looted Nigerian art. NPR has details.
8/8/20229 minutes, 20 seconds
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The federal government is scrambling to contain monkeypox

The Wall Street Journal reports that a major climate and health-care spending bill looks to be moving forward after Democrats cut a deal on taxes with their moderate colleague Senator Kyrsten Sinema. The U.S. just declared monkeypox a public-health emergency. Stat has the details. NBC News recently spoke to longtime activists who say the American public-health system is repeating dangerous mistakes from the early days of the AIDS crisis. A Senate investigation of the U.S. transplant system uncovered dozens of deaths and many donated organs wasted. The Washington Post reports. Vox looks at how several new films focus on love, but in a fresher, broader, and more interesting way than old-school romantic comedies. A confectionery company is paying an impressive salary for someone to eat dozens of pieces of candy all day. Fortune has the story.
8/5/20229 minutes, 53 seconds
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Why the U.S. right loves Hungary’s leader

Bloomberg reports on Trump's meeting with Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán, which took place just days after Orbán made remarks that have been likened to Nazi rhetoric. The New Yorker asks, does Hungary offer a glimpse of America’s authoritarian future? As Brittney Griner’s case gets global attention, the family of another American in Russian custody worries he’s being forgotten. His wife spoke to the Washington Post. A new analysis estimates that 4 million people in the U.S. are out of work because of long COVID. NPR explains the implications for the job market and labor policy. The Los Angeles Times breaks down the DOT’s proposed rule aimed at making it easier to get refunds and vouchers for canceled flights.
8/4/202210 minutes, 11 seconds
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Why the Kansas abortion vote gives Democrats hope

Politico has the key takeaways from an important primary night. The Senate passed a bill to help veterans affected by toxic trash-burning pits, legislation that Jon Stewart fought for. CNN has the story. Energy companies are reporting record profits as Americans struggle with high gas prices. The Washington Post looks at the impact. Lots of Americans who can work remotely have moved to Mexico City. The Los Angeles Times reports on how some locals want them to pack up and go home. An Oakland library collects the scraps of paper left behind in borrowed books. The librarian behind the project told NPR it’s like “reading people's secret diaries.”
8/3/202210 minutes, 3 seconds
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Behind the strike that killed Ayman al-Zawahiri

CNN has the story of how Biden and his team decided to kill Ayman al-Zawahiri, the world’s most wanted terrorist. Vox breaks down why Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan is so controversial. Kansas voters will decide Tuesday whether the state’s constitution should guarantee the right to an abortion. Politico reports. Earth is spinning faster, and recently marked its shortest day on record. The Guardian explains what’s going on.
8/2/20228 minutes, 53 seconds
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How climate change is making severe weather deadlier

This has been a year of deadly, extreme weather — and much more is expected to come. Wired explains why. These people in Florida were registered to vote by a government official. ProPublica investigates why they are now being charged with voter fraud. The Guardian reports on Annemiek van Vleuten, winner of the first Tour de France Femmes. And CNN looks at how the new race could change women’s cycling. The New York Post looks into what ‘The Jetsons’ got right — and wrong — about the future.
8/1/20228 minutes, 48 seconds
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Are we in a recession? Try asking a better question.

U.S. GDP declined again, but that might not mean we’re in a recession. Vox explains. NPR has information about what to watch out for with, and how to protect yourself from, monkeypox. The Discord chat app has faced moderation questions due to its use by mass-shooting suspects. NBC News reports. Stores are confronting a new inventory problem: an excess of items consumers went crazy for at the height of the pandemic, such as air fryers. NPR looks at what’s going on.
7/29/202210 minutes, 2 seconds
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Congress tackles climate change and same-sex marriage

Politico explains how a surprise change in position by Joe Manchin set the stage for a Senate deal that could lead to a record climate spending package, and profiles a Democratic senator who is lobbying Republicans to help write marriage-equality protections into law. CNN reports that the Biden administration is offering to exchange a convicted Russian arms dealer as part of a deal to free Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan from Russian custody. The last abortion clinic in North Dakota has been preparing for the end. The New Yorker was there to tell the story. With Ken Jennings and Mayim Bialik now officially the new hosts of ‘Jeopardy,’ the Ringer’s Claire McNear looks at how change may be on the way for the show. On In Conversation a while back, we talked with her about it.
7/28/20227 minutes, 47 seconds
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How the DOJ’s Jan. 6 probe may be getting closer to Trump

The Washington Post reports that the Justice Department is asking very specific questions about Trump’s actions around January 6 as part of its criminal probe into efforts to overturn the 2020 election. GDP is one of the most influential economic indicators. But there are things it doesn’t capture, and some economists are working to cover these blind spots, as NPR explains. ProPublica reports on how closing courtrooms during the pandemic may have been a big driver of a rise in violent crime in America. Curbed speaks to a marine-life expert who argues that growing shark activity is a sign that conservation efforts are working.
7/27/20229 minutes, 35 seconds
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How the DOJ’s Jan. 6 probe may be getting closer to Trump

The Washington Post reports that the Justice Department is asking very specific questions about Trump’s actions around January 6 as part of its criminal probe into efforts to overturn the 2020 election. GDP is one of the most influential economic indicators. But there are things it doesn’t capture, and some economists are working to cover these blind spots, as NPR explains. ProPublica reports on how closing courtrooms during the pandemic may have been a big driver of a rise in violent crime in America. Curbed speaks to a marine-life expert who argues that growing shark activity is a sign that conservation efforts are working.
7/27/20229 minutes, 35 seconds
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Making Alex Jones pay for his Sandy Hook lies

A jury will determine how much conspiracy theorist Alex Jones will pay to a Sandy Hook family for defamation. He has denied the school shooting, spreading lies and claims that it was a hoax. The Austin American-Statesman has the story. The James Webb Space Telescope is already making major discoveries. One is an exoplanet with clouds made of sand, as the Atlantic explains. The Guardian examines why the Dallas Cowboys are one of the most valuable sports franchises, even though they haven’t won a Super Bowl in decades. A bizarre bond battle involves Elvis Presley, Wall Street, and the pandemic. CNN reports on what’s going on.
7/26/202211 minutes, 7 seconds
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Why critics say the U.S. isn’t ready for monkeypox

Monkeypox is now a declared global emergency, CBS News reports. There are concerns that America isn’t doing enough. In extreme heat, air conditioning is a public-health necessity — but it can also help make climate change worse. Vox looks at efforts to make AC more sustainable. Some Americans who can’t afford homes in the U.S. are buying in Europe — and loving it. Bloomberg talks to some of them. Retired sprinter Allyson Felix was eating hot wings when her phone rang. Team USA needed her to run one more race. ESPN has the story of what happened next.
7/25/20228 minutes, 1 second
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What to know from the latest Jan. 6 hearing

CNN has takeaways from the latest January 6 hearing, which took place in prime time and focused on Trump’s action and inaction on the day of the Capitol attack. Good luck with checked luggage these days. The Wall Street Journal explains just how bad it is out there. And in his farewell, the Journal’s longtime travel columnist says air travel has mostly gotten worse over the last two decades. The Atlantic looks at how Netflix is acting more and more like an old-school Hollywood studio. American Songwriter reports on a new documentary in which Don McLean debunks common theories about the lyrics to “American Pie.”
7/22/202211 minutes, 33 seconds
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Will a jury convict an accused school shooter’s parents?

New York Magazine looks at why a Michigan prosecutor is taking the extremely unusual move of charging the parents of an accused school shooter. The Washington Post reports that the January 6 committee’s last planned public hearing is expected to include outtakes from a Trump message recorded that day in which he seems hesitant to condemn the violence. The Post also looks at the primary challenge facing Liz Cheney, one of the former president’s most outspoken GOP critics. The New Yorker explores the pandemic is driving the a boom in sales of luxury boats to the ultra-rich. She just got accepted to medical school. She’s 13. Read her remarkable story in the Washington Post.
7/21/202211 minutes, 6 seconds
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As the world burns, how climate-change talks fell apart

Negotiations over climate action are falling apart in Congress, but it seems unlikely Biden will declare a national climate emergency when he delivers a speech about the crisis today. The Washington Post reports. Politico reports how the Secret Service is coming under fire after it revealed it lost text messages sent around the days of the January 6 attack at the Capitol. During the war in Ukraine, there have been multiple reports of women and girls being raped by Russian soldiers. The New Yorker spoke with psychologists who say the victims are suffering unimaginable trauma.  The Wall Street Journal explains how the new BA.5 Omicron subvariant is forcing doctors and researchers to reevaluate how long immunity lasts after a COVID infection.
7/20/202210 minutes, 28 seconds
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Steve Bannon is back in court. Here’s what to know.

NPR explains why former Trump adviser Steve Bannon is on trial. The Atlantic calls him an American Rasputin in a profile, and explains how he is still scheming and still a threat to democracy. A homeless mother’s experience demonstrates how difficult it is to raise a child without access to stable housing and adequate social services. The Los Angeles Times tells her story. The New Yorker explains why so many younger couples are now signing prenups, even if they don’t have much in the way of money or property. The Wall Street Journal reports on how new shoe technology seems to be helping elite runners put in faster times.
7/19/202210 minutes, 6 seconds
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Steve Bannon is back in court. Here’s what to know.

NPR explains why former Trump adviser Steve Bannon is on trial. The Atlantic calls him an American Rasputin in a profile, and explains how he is still scheming and still a threat to democracy. A homeless mother’s experience demonstrates how difficult it is to raise a child without access to stable housing and adequate social services. The Los Angeles Times tells her story. The New Yorker explains why so many younger couples are now signing prenups, even if they don’t have much in the way of money or property. The Wall Street Journal reports on how new shoe technology seems to be helping elite runners put in faster times.
7/19/202210 minutes, 6 seconds
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New insights in a report on the Uvalde school shooting

CNN has five key takeaways from the new report on the deadly school shooting in Uvalde. Texans worry that their power grid won’t be able to handle demand in extreme hot weather. The Texas Tribune looks at how some are cutting their own power use. Can Target gift cards help people stay off meth? The Los Angeles Times examines a program trying that. Why don’t woodpeckers get concussions? The Atlantic reports on a study that provides a surprising answer.
7/18/20228 minutes, 42 seconds
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A Texas mother’s agonizing choice over abortion

Texas Monthly has the story of a mother who was forced to choose between an out-of-state abortion or letting her baby die an agonizing death. Starting Saturday, people who need mental-health counseling can dial 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. NPR reports on concerns about whether there will be enough staffers to meet the need. Many gas-station owners dislike high oil prices. The Wall Street Journal explains why. An art critic at the Washington Post breaks down how a newly discovered Van Gogh self-portrait may reveal fresh insights about the artist.
7/15/202210 minutes, 10 seconds
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What parents can do if their kid is planning violence

Parents whose children talk about attacking schools often struggle with whether to contact police. The Wall Street Journal spoke to some who have done it. The eldest members of Generation Z are turning 25, meaning they’re old enough to run for Congress. NPR asked some who are candidates why they want to serve. Best-selling author Delia Owens is wanted for questioning in the murder investigation of a suspected poacher nearly three decades ago in Zambia. The Atlantic explains. The Verge looks into how the future of automobiles may be an expensive subscription nightmare, as carmakers try to get drivers to pay monthly fees for features.
7/14/202210 minutes, 28 seconds
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New Uvalde-shooting footage reveals the slow police response

The Austin American-Statesman and KVUE obtained exclusive video from inside Uvalde’s Robb Elementary. It shows officers’ delayed response to the deadly mass shooting at the school. The Washington Post has key takeaways from the latest January 6 hearing, focused on the connection between the actions of the Capitol attackers and Trump’s words. Politico argues that the real winner of Biden’s meeting with Saudi Arabia’s controversial crown prince is Israel. NPR introduces us to Ada Limón, the new U.S. poet laureate.
7/13/202210 minutes, 23 seconds
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“A new age for astronomy.” What the Webb telescope shows us.

We’re finally seeing just what NASA’s Webb telescope is capable of, and the imagery is stunning, providing the deepest view of the universe ever. National Geographic is on the story. A massive investigation led by the Guardian draws on leaked documents to shed light on how Uber skirted laws, exploited violence against its drivers, and aggressively lobbied governments to help it expand. Lawyers for Twitter said Elon Musk’s effort to pull out of his deal to buy the platform is “invalid and wrongful.” The Wall Street Journal explains how this could become one of the most unusual legal battles in corporate-takeover history. SB Nation reports on how a group of people in India is accused of faking an entire cricket league to con Russian gamblers out of their money.
7/12/20229 minutes, 53 seconds
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How state constitutions could protect abortion rights

After the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the decision to guarantee or restrict access fell to states. BuzzFeed News reports on how abortion-rights advocates are digging through state constitutions in search of ways to block bans. This weekend, protesters in Sri Lanka overtook the home of the president and torched the prime minister’s private residence. Now both government officials say they’ll resign. The Wall Street Journal explains how the country’s economic crisis turned political, and why it’s a warning for other nations.  The Verge explains how the U.S. housing crisis has left many Afghan refugees and immigrants struggling to find permanent homes. NPR has the story of how a woman became an internet legend after sweeping nearly all the awards at a county fair.
7/11/202210 minutes, 27 seconds
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Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe assassinated

Former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe died after being shot during a speech. The BBC reports. Biden is expected to sign an executive order related to abortion access and privacy, but full federal protection of abortion rights would require bigger moves by Congress. The Wall Street Journal has more. LGBTQ clubs are havens for young students. The Washington Post looks at how they’re under pressure from politicians and activists who want to prevent them from meeting. Sunscreen is way better in Europe and Asia. The Atlantic explains why Americans are missing out. The Los Angeles Times details how Wimbledon players choose their tennis balls.
7/8/20229 minutes, 33 seconds
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How the U.S. economy is super weird right now

The Wall Street Journal looks at how the U.S. economy is a bizarre mix of a hot job market and slowing economic growth. Experts are confused. The Guardian reports on how British prime minister Boris Johnson is stepping down after a series of scandals and political setbacks cost him the confidence of his party. Schools are using sophisticated digital surveillance to monitor students’ online activity as a way of preventing violence, but the impact is unclear. The Texas Tribune reports. National Geographic details the surprising ways in which animals are adapting to urban life, as humans expand into more and more natural spaces.
7/7/20228 minutes, 39 seconds
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New revelations about the deadly July 4 shooting

The suspected gunman in the Highland Park July 4 attack is facing seven counts of first-degree murder. CBS News reports. Reuters explains how Russia’s latest victory in Ukraine came at a high cost, with tougher fighting ahead. Al Jazeera explores what it’s like living in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine. CNBC looks at how a strong dollar is pushing down the value of the euro and other global currencies. Pickleball is not just a way to get some low-impact exercise. The sport is also a snakepit of business intrigue, as entrepreneurs fight to cash in on its growing popularity. Sports Illustrated has the story.
7/6/20228 minutes, 51 seconds
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“Like a battle zone.” A deadly shooting at a July 4 parade.

Police arrested a man following a deadly shooting at a July 4 parade in an Illinois suburb north of Chicago. Here’s more from the Chicago Tribune. Time reports on how anti-abortion pregnancy centers are collecting data that could be used against women. A 10-year old abuse victim had to cross state lines for an abortion after the Supreme Court’s recent ruling blocked her from getting the procedure in her home state. The Indianapolis Star has the story. The Washington Post explains why an upcoming Supreme Court case has democracy advocates very worried. NPR breaks down why inflation has wiped out the dollar pizza slices but not other, similar offers.
7/5/20228 minutes, 48 seconds
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What Biden and Democrats can do about abortion

Politico looks at what Democrats can — and might — do in Congress to fight the end of Roe. ESPN has answers to key questions about American basketball star Brittney Griner’s trial in Russia, while the Wall Street Journal has a preview of the unusual case. Twenty-five years since China took control of Hong Kong from Britain, the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg get perspectives on how life has changed in the territory from residents born around the time of the handover. The Washington Post explains why Fourth of July weekend travel may be crazy — and suggests what to do about it.
7/1/202211 minutes, 15 seconds
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How John Roberts lost control of the Supreme Court

Politico looks into how Chief Justice John Roberts lost control of the Supreme Court. NPR reports that disease experts are worried about the spread of monkeypox in the U.S., in part because testing is lacking. In Stat, an STD expert looks at what America needs to do to better handle such outbreaks. An unserved warrant related to the 1955 lynching of Emmett Till is reopening the case. USA Today has the story. The Guardian explains how the climate crisis is causing shortages of hot peppers, coffee, wine, and other things we love to eat and drink.
6/30/20229 minutes, 56 seconds
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Former aide testifies about Trump’s rage on Jan. 6

The Washington Post reports on new testimony from a former White House aide who said Trump sought to lead an armed mob to the Capitol on January 6. Fortune explains how a Supreme Court ruling could severely limit the power of the EPA and other federal agencies to tackle climate change. Vox has in-depth legal analysis. As Russia continues to attack Ukraine, NATO is moving to expand. The Wall Street Journal has details. Marketplace has the surprisingly long, tangled story behind country-of-origin labels.
6/29/202210 minutes, 56 seconds
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What the Supreme Court may do next after overturning Roe

Politico looks at how Chief Justice John Roberts lost control of the Supreme Court. And SCOTUSblog has analysis of the court’s decision to overrule Roe v. Wade, and what to understand about the concurring and dissenting opinions. The Texas Tribune reports on dozens of migrants found dead in San Antonio in one of the deadliest human-smuggling incidents of its kind. In Scientific American, a researcher explains how parents’ traumatic experiences can affect their children’s genes. No matter what happens at Wimbledon this year, Sports Illustrated argues that Serena Williams’s legacy as someone who changed tennis forever is secure.
6/28/20229 minutes, 56 seconds
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What’s next for patients as abortion clinics shut down

The Washington Post was inside an abortion clinic to report on the chaos and tears as it abruptly shut down after Roe was overruled. The New Yorker argues that the decision to remove the constitutional right to abortion doesn’t send America back to the time before Roe, but somewhere worse. ‘Project Unabom,’ a new podcast from Apple TV+, has fresh reporting on the story of Ted Kaczynski, the Unabomber. The labor market remains hot. But some businesses are now rescinding job offers they made. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
6/27/202211 minutes, 9 seconds
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Roe is overturned. Here's what that means for abortion.

The Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade, upending half a century of American abortion law. The Wall Street Journal is on the story. Slate explains why it’s important to remember Shirley Wheeler, who was convicted of manslaughter for getting an abortion in the days before Roe. The Washington Post reports on the latest January 6 committee testimony, which focused on how Trump pressured the Justice Department to help his effort to overturn the 2020 election.
6/24/202211 minutes, 42 seconds
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Latest from Afghanistan as the earthquake death toll rises

An update from NPR on Afghanistan’s deadliest earthquake in 20 years.  The Supreme Court hands down a major decision on gun rights.  The Washington Post reports how abortion providers are racing to train the next wave of specialists in the field in anticipation of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade. Title IX  was intended to level the playing field for men’s and women’s athletics. Fifty years on, USA Today looks at the huge disparities that still exist.
6/23/202212 minutes, 8 seconds
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Inside Trump’s plan to overturn his loss using fake electors

The Washington Post reports on how the latest January 6 hearing revealed Trump’s involvement in a plan to use fake electors to undermine the 2020 presidential-election results, and also has background on the plot. Hundreds of people are dead following a powerful earthquake in Afghanistan. The Wall Street Journal has the story. Biden will ask Congress to suspend the federal gas tax for three months, USA Today reports. The Hill provides key takeaways from Tuesday’s races in Alabama, Georgia, and beyond. The Senate made its first move to advance a bipartisan gun-safety bill. Politico explains. A civil jury found Bill Cosby liable in a sexual-assault case. CNN has details. NBC News reports on concerns for the fate of several Americans who are in Russian hands. Vice lays out how extreme drought revealed the remains of an ancient lost city.
6/22/202210 minutes, 36 seconds
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These little-known elections could determine abortion access

Politico explains how state supreme court races, typically obscure, are a critical election battleground in the fight for the future of abortion law in the U.S. The Texas Tribune’s detailed review of evidence from the Uvalde school shooting shows that law enforcement was well-equipped to take on the gunman, raising new questions about why officers waited so long to confront him. A wide range of companies say the shipping industry is charging excess fees that are driving up the cost of everything Americans buy. ProPublica investigates. A record-breaking 661-pound stingray is the largest freshwater fish ever discovered. National Geographic reports on how catching and releasing it may help save special underwater creatures everywhere.
6/21/20228 minutes, 26 seconds
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New details about Trump’s plans to overthrow the election

The Wall Street Journal reports that the Department of Justice says the January 6 committee isn’t sharing key witness transcripts. Watergate happened 50 years ago. The Washington Post explains how its legacies are still with us, and Woodward and Bernstein look at parallels between Trump and Nixon. The Golden State Warriors beat the Boston Celtics to win the NBA title. ESPN has the story.
6/17/20229 minutes, 38 seconds
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COVID vaccines for toddlers are close. Here’s what to know.

An FDA advisory panel is backing Pfizer and Moderna COVID shots for children as young as 6 months old. Stat has the story. The Wall Street Journal reports on how the UK is under fire for a policy to deport some asylum seekers all the way to Rwanda. Millions of Americans who never graduated college are still stuck with large student-debt bills. Teen Vogue explains. The murder trial is underway in the killing of rapper Nipsey Hussle. NPR previously stepped back to look at his legacy and service to his community.
6/16/20229 minutes, 12 seconds
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Why 49 million people face famine now

A South Carolina congressman who voted for impeachment will fall to a Trump-backed challenger, while another incumbent who defied Trump will survive the primary, CNN projects. The Washington Post reports on how worsening climate disasters and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are among the reasons 49 million people are facing famine. Florida recently passed some of the nation’s most restrictive abortion laws. It also has one of the highest rates of abortion nationally. Politico looks at the coming clash between politics and practice. Data shows that American adolescents aren’t getting enough sleep, in part because many schools start very early. California educators are making a big move to require later start times. The Atlantic has more. One of the world’s most unusual land disputes, between Canada and Denmark, has concluded peacefully. BBC News has the story of the end of the “Whisky Wars.”
6/15/20228 minutes, 36 seconds
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How the experts got inflation wrong

As markets tumble, the Wall Street Journal looks at what the experts got wrong about inflation. The New Yorker on what to make of all the former Trump officials whose January 6 committee testimony says they tried to tell him the truth about the election he lost. The Washington Post takes a detailed look at the available evidence around the killing of Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh. As travel bounces back, some resorts and hotels are catering to people looking to get away following pandemic divorces and breakups. The Wall Street Journal explains.
6/14/20228 minutes, 21 seconds
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What’s in the Senate gun-safety plan, and what isn’t

The Wall Street Journal reports on how a bipartisan group of senators has reached a deal on a framework to make changes to gun laws. It falls short of what many shooting victims have been calling for. A new Washington Post poll shows how rising prices are causing Americans to make major changes to how they live. Bloomberg Businessweek has the story of an unusual new platform that lets investors make big wagers on almost anything. Paleontologists tell ABC News what the ‘Jurassic Park’ series gets right and wrong about dinosaurs.
6/13/20228 minutes, 32 seconds
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The Jan. 6 hearing, in under 7 minutes

Politico looks at how the January 6 committee opened its first public hearing by laying out its case that Trump fueled that day’s violence at the Capitol, and the Wall Street Journal has key takeaways from the hearing. The chief of police for the Uvalde school district tells his side of the story to the Texas Tribune, in his first extended comments since the shooting at Robb Elementary School. CNN reports on another deadly shooting in America, this time at a plant in Maryland. The Grand Rapids police officer who killed Patrick Lyoya is facing second-degree murder charges. The Washington Post has the story.
6/10/20228 minutes, 49 seconds
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Why many Republican voters are supporting Jan. 6 apologists

As televised hearings about the Capitol attack begin, Bloomberg examines primary results and polling data that show many politicians who embraced Trump’s election lies have public support. If Roe v. Wade is overturned, experts warn there could be major impact on access to IVF. Stat has the story. Saudi Arabian money is funding a controversial upstart golf tour, and despite the country’s poor human-rights record, some big-time golfers are taking the cash. Slate takes a look at what’s going on. ESPN reports on how the PGA Tour is suspending athletes who are taking part in the Saudi-backed event. These are the most overpaid CEOs in the Fortune 500.
6/9/20229 minutes, 35 seconds
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Why many Republican voters are supporting Jan. 6 apologists

As televised hearings about the Capitol attack begin, Bloomberg examines primary results and polling data that show many politicians who embraced Trump’s election lies have public support. If Roe v. Wade is overturned, experts warn there could be major impact on access to IVF. Stat has the story. Saudi Arabian money is funding a controversial upstart golf tour, and despite the country’s poor human-rights record, some big-time golfers are taking the cash. Slate takes a look at what’s going on. These are the most overpaid CEOs in the Fortune 500.
6/9/20229 minutes, 35 seconds
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What Uvalde and Buffalo families want Congress to do on guns

ABC News reports on congressional testimony from families affected by the Uvalde and Buffalo shootings, including a fourth grader who survived the attack in Texas. Vox explains why new weapons the U.S. is sending to Ukraine indicate that the conflict there is entering a more difficult phase. Wall Street Journal reporting reveals that hundreds of Russian soldiers have resisted orders to join the war in Ukraine. Thousands of British workers are taking part in the world’s largest trial of a four-day workweek. BBC News takes a closer look. USA Today reports on how figure skating’s governing body is raising the minimum age for the 2026 Olympics to 17, following the doping controversy centered on 15-year-old Kamila Valieva.
6/8/20229 minutes, 59 seconds
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Proud Boys leader faces serious new Jan. 6 charges

Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio faces serious new charges connected to the January 6 insurrection. NBC News has the story. The Los Angeles Times reports on how several of California’s primary races have national implications, highlighting a very different storyline than in other states. Doorbell cameras are becoming more ubiquitous, raising tough questions about the privacy rights of the people they record. Wired breaks the issue down. The Wall Street Journal goes inside the small but growing movement of sports fans who fill stands to root for the referees.
6/7/20228 minutes, 33 seconds
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The Uvalde police chief who’s gone into hiding

Nearly two weeks after the school shooting in Uvalde, many unanswered questions remain over the police response. The Texas Tribune describes Pete Arredondo, chief of the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District Police Department, as a man in hiding.  Students lost the equivalent of months of in-person instruction during the pandemic. In the Atlantic, a group of education experts propose a controversial plan to address the loss by extending the school year.  After a weekend of celebrations for the Queen’s Jubilee, the national mood has turned in the U.K., after Conservative lawmakers triggered a no-confidence vote that could oust Prime Minister Boris Johnson. NBC News has the latest. After nearly three months, a lost Iditarod dog has been found — 150 miles from where he went missing. He is now back with his owner. The Daily Mail has the story.
6/6/20229 minutes, 28 seconds
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Why it’s so hard to change gun laws

President Biden demanded Congress take action to prevent the next mass shooting. NPR breaks down the hurdles to legislative change.  Sanctions on Russia for the war in Ukraine have exacerbated supply-chain woes and pushed the price of commodities up. Bloomberg News explains how Russia still benefits from the shortages.  A New Yorker reporter tried to understand the rise in child suicides.  Harini Logan won the Scripps National Spelling Bee after the competition went to a spell-off. USA Today describes the dramatic finish.
6/3/202212 minutes
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What happens to school buildings after mass shootings?

Residents in Uvalde, Texas, are questioning whether to demolish and rebuild Robb Elementary after 21 people were killed there in a mass shooting. NPR looks at what other communities have done after these tragedies.   Sheryl Sandberg is leaving Facebook. The Wall Street Journal explains why that matters.    To understand how dire the formula shortage is, the Dallas Morning News followed a new mother in Texas as she spent hours tracking down formula for her baby.   Tonight, the Celtics will face the Warriors in the NBA Finals. The Ringer tells you what you need to know ahead of Game 1. 
6/2/202210 minutes, 42 seconds
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Why arming teachers may not prevent school shootings

Vox looks at research finding that there’s very little evidence that giving teachers guns makes schools safer from mass shootings. HuffPost argues that the courtroom dispute between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard is more than just a social-media circus. Gangsters in Haiti are kidnapping physicians, causing hospitals to close. The Miami Herald reports. The Washington Post reports on the fascinating new discoveries archaeologists found in Egypt, dating back 2,500 years.
6/1/20229 minutes, 10 seconds
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How a shooting long before Columbine changed the gun debate

As Uvalde families mourn, the Texas Tribune looks back at another mass shooting in the state that affects the gun-policy debate in America to this day. What a Wall Street Journal tax columnist learned about the IRS after having to wait more than five hours in line for assistance. American taxpayers have to spend a surprising amount of time navigating government bureaucracy to access the benefits they’re entitled to. The Atlantic examines of “the Time Tax.” Grist reports on new research showing climate change is seriously messing with our sleep. Tom Cruise runs a lot in his movies. ESPN asked elite athletes to critique his form.
5/31/20229 minutes, 16 seconds
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What’s next for grieving families after the Texas shooting

Parkland and Newtown families reflect on how to support the parents who lost children in the Texas elementary-school shooting. The Washington Post spoke to them. USA Today reports on how the Texas and Buffalo shootings are overshadowing the confirmation process of Biden's ATF nominee. The New Yorker examines the digital spaces where the gunman in the Buffalo shooting developed his plans and built an audience. A conversation with a Vox journalist who survived a school shooting more than two decades ago, who spoke with others who lived through the first wave of this kind of gun violence. Apple News highlights some of the best journalism focusing on the week’s tragic events.
5/26/202212 minutes, 51 seconds
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Here’s what has changed about gun policy in America

At least 19 students and 2 adults were killed in a shooting at a Texas elementary school. The San Antonio Express-News reports. Two years after George Floyd’s murder, the Washington Post reports on how the White House is issuing an executive order on policing and how Biden’s rhetoric around overhauling law enforcement has changed.
5/25/202211 minutes, 6 seconds
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Why Georgia’s primary matters nationally

Georgia’s primary races have national implications. Trump is seeing mixed results in efforts to influence state politics. Vox looks at why Governor Brian Kemp, an enemy of Trump’s, looks set for a strong win. A Supreme Court ruling on Mississippi’s restrictive abortion law may pave the way for restrictions on abortion in other states. ProPublica reveals how the state does the least for new parents in need. No, video games don’t rot brains. Research shows that, in moderation, there are actually cognitive benefits. The Wall Street Journal breaks down recent data. AOL Instant Messenger launched 25 years ago this month. Smithsonian Magazine explains how the old-school messaging technology is a lot more influential than you might think.
5/24/20229 minutes, 43 seconds
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Understanding Biden’s surprising China-Taiwan comments

Biden said America would be willing to use force to defend Taiwan against a possible Chinese attack, an answer that surprised observers from Washington to Beijing. Reuters reports. The Houston Chronicle has details of an extensive new report revealing Southern Baptist leaders routinely silenced sexual-abuse survivors and missed opportunities to make reforms. NBC News reports on the Russian soldier sentenced to life in prison in Ukraine’s first war crimes trial. NPR takes us inside the dramatic courtroom moment when a Ukrainian widow confronted the man who shot her elderly husband. Sports Illustrated profiles Rafael Nadal, who at 36 is aiming for another Grand Slam title, fighting injuries, age, and younger opponents.
5/23/20227 minutes, 28 seconds
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A landmark study on abortion contains surprises

Oklahoma lawmakers have passed a bill that would be the strictest anti-abortion law in the nation. The Wall Street Journal has details. And NPR looks at a landmark study tracking the lasting effect of having an abortion, or being denied one. Politico explains Biden’s five big challenges on his first trip to Asia as president. The Washington Post introduces us to parents who refuse to give their kids smartphones. Popular Science looks at the facts behind common misconceptions about metals in the kitchen.
5/20/202210 minutes, 22 seconds
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Here’s what people get wrong about baby formula

Reuters reports on Biden’s decision to invoke the the Defense Production Act to combat the baby-formula shortage. There are a lot of misconceptions about breastfeeding and formula feeding, so Vox supplies some facts. A USA Today investigation reveals major failures in the adoption system in America. Hear more on USA Today’s 5 Things podcast. NPR explains why monkeypox is in the news — and why you’re highly unlikely to catch it. The PGA Championship begins today without defending champion Phil Mickelson. ESPN tells the story of how things fell apart for the golf legend in just one year.
5/19/20229 minutes, 38 seconds
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Good luck finding a theme in these primary results

Tuesday’s primary results paint a mixed picture of the electorate, the parties, and Trump's influence. Vox explains. Following the killing of Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, CBS News looks at the major questions remaining about her death. A friend and fellow reporter writes a remembrance of her for CNN. Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell tells the Wall Street Journal that inflation must be brought down — and that the bank has the resolve to do it. But Bloomberg’s visit to the Texas town with the highest inflation in the country reveals the limits of the Fed’s ability to help. A collegiate summer-league baseball team is reinventing the game and drawing huge crowds. The Los Angeles Times has the story.
5/18/202210 minutes, 11 seconds
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Remembering the lives lost in the Buffalo mass shooting

The Washington Post tells the stories of the people who were killed in the Buffalo grocery-store shooting. Russia’s war is doing damage to Ukraine’s air and water that will have generational impact. Rolling Stone explains. Sports Illustrated reports on the NBA’s crackdown on player profanity. Congress is holding its first public hearing on UFOs in more than 50 years. The Wall Street Journal has a preview. And Esquire looks at the connection with that guy from Blink-182.
5/17/202210 minutes, 12 seconds
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The racist conspiracy theory behind the Buffalo shooting

On Saturday, a gunman opened fire at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York — killing 10 people. Investigators believe the alleged gunman was motivated by a racist conspiracy known as “replacement theory.” The Washington Post reports on how this idea has moved from the fringes of the internet to mainstream media and politics.   A Time reporter traveled to the North and South poles to see the impact of climate change there for for herself.   Music-concert tickets have recently become way more expensive. Vice explains why.   Ukraine won the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest. NPR spoke with the frontman of Kalush Orchestra, the band behind the winning entry, who said it’s a huge responsibility to represent the country at a global competition.
5/16/202210 minutes, 33 seconds
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What to know about the cryptocurrency meltdown

TerraUSD, a stablecoin that is supposed to be pegged to the US dollar, crashed this week. CNBC explains what that shows about the vulnerabilities of cryptocurrencies. And CNN says the panic over digital assets has gotten Washington’s attention. We spoke to Tina Brown about her new book’s inside look at the British royal family. Read the Vanity Fair excerpt. True-crime stories are everywhere these days. How does it feel for people to see their tragic family histories turned into entertainment? BuzzFeed News looked into this. Wired reports on how researchers have grown plants in dirt from the moon for the first time.
5/13/20229 minutes, 39 seconds
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People who’ve never had COVID may hold the key to beating it

Scientists are studying people who have not yet caught the coronavirus for clues to how to better tackle it in future. The Washington Post investigates. One of Putin’s big issues with the West has been the expansion of NATO. Now his invasion of Ukraine has Finland ready to join the alliance, after decades of staying out. The Wall Street Journal explains. Creating the best NFL schedule involves thousands of computers. The Los Angeles Times got an exclusive look into the process. CNN tells the story of how a calm air-traffic controller helped a passenger with no flying experience safely land a plane at a Florida airport after the pilot became incapacitated.
5/12/20228 minutes, 32 seconds
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Meet the woman behind the anti-abortion movement

Marjorie Dannenfelser has worked with a single-minded focus for decades to end abortion. On the cusp of her greatest triumph, New York Magazine has an in-depth look at her plans for the future.   As the CDC says a gun-violence surge in 2020 pushed the homicide rate to its highest in 25 years, NPR’s Fresh Air speaks with one journalist who’s focusing on what can be done to prevent mass shootings. The U.S. is experiencing a baby-formula shortage. The Wall Street Journal explains what that means for parents. The Ringer reports on an unexpected struggle faced by ‘Jeopardy’ super champions: finding new fun facts to share, day after day.
5/11/202210 minutes, 41 seconds
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How the GOP stopped supporting rape exceptions for abortion

The Atlantic reports on the GOP’s surprising turn against allowing abortion for rape victims. An Andy Warhol artwork just sold for a record-breaking $195 million. Bloomberg has the story. Microplastics are in our bodies. But it’s not clear exactly how much they’re harming us. National Geographic looks at the science. Read some of the outstanding journalism that’s just been honored with Pulitzer Prizes, on Apple News.
5/10/20228 minutes, 48 seconds
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Why Putin is throwing a parade while attacking Ukraine

As Russia seeks a propaganda victory with a huge military parade in Red Square, there is new concern about how Moscow views the U.S.’s evolving approach to the war in Ukraine. The New Yorker reports. Five members of Congress spoke to Elle about their personal abortion experiences. A Bloomberg Businessweek reporter embedded with a wedding planner for the ultrawealthy to find out what goes into planning a multimillion-dollar wedding. A $34.99 Goodwill purchase turned out to be a lost treasure from around the first century. The San Antonio Express-News has the story.
5/9/202211 minutes, 32 seconds
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What to know as abortion battles move to states

Slate’s veteran Supreme Court watcher explains what comes next after a leaked draft indicated that justices are ready to overturn Roe v. Wade. A Time correspondent spent two weeks inside Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s secure compound. He witnessed a side of the Ukrainian president that the world rarely sees. As a new WNBA season begins, Sports Illustrated looks at how Russia has pushed the league to a crossroads. A physicist was fired by his daughter from brushing her tangled hair. So he used science to find the most pain-free way to do it. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
5/6/202210 minutes, 1 second
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How the Supreme Court abortion news is upending elections

The Supreme Court is poised to overturn Roe v. Wade. The Wall Street Journal explains how that’s scrambling election plans for Republicans and Democrats. A photography project shows the reality of treatment inside abortion clinics — and it’s very different than what politicians and protesters portray. BuzzFeed News has the story. Rape has reportedly become a weapon of war in Ukraine. NPR reports on how victims may struggle to get justice. Recode looks into how America is trying to fix its microchip shortage. Following a ProPublica investigation, the maker of TurboTax will pay millions of dollars to people who were tricked into paying for it despite being eligible for a free version.
5/5/202210 minutes, 38 seconds
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What abortion was like before Roe — and what it could become

With the Supreme Court poised to overturn Roe v. Wade, a woman who had an illegal abortion before the ruling tells her story to Vice and considers what the future might look like. Bloomberg reports on J.D. Vance’s Trump-backed win in Ohio’s GOP Senate primary. CNBC has tips for how to prepare for the Federal Reserve’s expected interest-rate raise today. San Francisco has spent millions to shelter homeless people in hotels. An extensive investigation by the San Francisco Chronicle reveals disastrous results. And now officials want millions in new funding following the revelations. What happened to Starbucks? Fast Company looks at how a coffee chain with a progressive reputation became a union battleground.
5/4/20229 minutes, 19 seconds
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Inside the leaked SCOTUS abortion opinion

Our conversation with Politico senior legal-affairs reporter Josh Gerstein, who broke the story of a leaked draft opinion that shows the Supreme Court has voted to overturn Roe v. Wade.
5/3/202210 minutes, 58 seconds
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Why Russia’s words about the war worry the U.S.

The Wall Street Journal reports on how Russia is recasting the fight in Ukraine as a broader conflict with the West. Bloomberg has the story of how Delta is breaking with competitors in its move to pay flight attendants during boarding. It comes as labor activists are trying to organize the airline’s flight attendants. Time has that angle. LAist explains how Los Angeles is going to construct the world’s largest wildlife crossing. And Curbed shows how this project may be very good for a very hot mountain lion. A toxic green pigment was used in some 19th-century book covers. National Geographic looks into the quest to hunt down the poisonous volumes.
5/2/202211 minutes, 11 seconds
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Trump supporters accused of breaking into voting systems

An investigation from Reuters uncovers several attempts to breach voting systems by Republican officials or activists since the 2020 election. A contractor has pleaded guilty to fraud after being awarded $34.5 million in government money to provide N95 masks and producing none. ProPublica has the story. When a security researcher realized he had been targeted by North Korea, he decided to take down its internet. Wired spoke with him. These mechanics can turn your vintage gas guzzler into an EV. But, they tell the Los Angeles Times, there’s a long waiting list.
4/29/202212 minutes, 17 seconds
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Three signs Russia’s war is getting bigger

Bloomberg reports on how the EU is trying to hold firm as Russia uses its energy supply to exert pressure. The New Yorker looks at a controversial plan to make Michigan the next space state that could include rockets over Lake Superior. The Washington Post visits the upstate New York town that claims to be the birthplace of basketball, despite historians recognizing another location. A 60-year-old love song written by a young sailor is a social-media sensation. People explains why.
4/28/202210 minutes, 37 seconds
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Why Biden may be ready to cancel your student debt

The Washington Post reports on how Biden is signaling a new openness to canceling student loans. American Trevor Reed has been released from Russia in a prisoner swap. CNN has coverage. Families of crime victims are turning to TikTok and other social platforms to find justice. The Cut has the story. Leaders of countries with questionable human-rights practices often use sports to distract from problematic behavior. Sports Illustrated takes a look at the history of this pervasive practice, known as sportswashing. A group of MIT scientists went deep on the splitting of Oreos, in search of the perfect split of creme between wafers. Vice has their findings.
4/27/20229 minutes, 41 seconds
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What to know about those Trump inner-circle texts

CNN obtained thousands of messages to and from Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows between Election Day 2020 and Biden’s inauguration. Here’s what they reveal about the communications of Trump’s inner circle in the weeks before and after January 6. Will the former president ever tweet again? CNBC looks at the selloff of stock tied to Trump’s social-media venture following news of Elon Musk’s deal to buy Twitter, which implies that some investors seem to think he will. And the Washington Post reports that even some of Trump’s own advisers don’t think he’ll be able to stay away. The Texas Tribune explains why a court halted the execution of Melissa Lucio. Earlier, the Marshall Project covered her story, including questions about her guilt. The Wall Street Journal shows how more women are breaking through to establish careers as professional baseball coaches.
4/26/20229 minutes, 39 seconds
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Why the SCOTUS school-prayer case is a big deal

A high school coach who lost his job after praying on the field has taken his case to the Supreme Court. He spoke recently with ABC News. Texas Monthly profiles Greg Abbott. The two-term governor has influence far beyond his state — and may be the future of the GOP. Some people in Congress say the expanded child tax credit isn’t needed because of existing welfare aid for families. But an extensive ProPublica investigation into that aid reveals repeated failures. GQ profiles Nicolas Cage, calling him a great actor — and one of our most inscrutable, eccentric, and misunderstood stars.
4/25/20229 minutes, 31 seconds
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The story of an environmental crisis the world fixed

On Earth Day, Vox has the story of a massive environmental crisis that the world actually solved. CNBC reports that a bill passed by Florida Republicans to dissolve Disney’s special district could leave local taxpayers with more than $1 billion in debt. The Atlantic goes inside the covert network of abortion-rights activists preparing for the end of Roe v. Wade. The summer of “revenge travel” is coming. The Washington Post warns that it will be expensive.
4/22/20229 minutes, 3 seconds
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What to know about Putin’s “Satan” missile test

Putin just tested an intercontinental ballistic missile NATO has dubbed “Satan 2” — but that’s not the scariest move he’s making around nuclear arms. The Washington Post explains. The Post also looks into how the West is sending heavier weaponry to Ukrainian forces, and what that tells us about where the conflict is going. The Wall Street Journal reports on how homeowner associations are making controversial rule changes in order to stop investors from buying houses to turn into rentals. The people who care for our pets are having trouble taking care of themselves. NPR looks at the pandemic-driven mental-health crisis facing veterinarians. The Atlantic talks to a Stanford researcher who says he’s figured out why some bands are one-hit wonders and others have long careers.
4/21/20228 minutes, 22 seconds
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Why Putin wants control of Ukraine’s Donbas region

BBC News explains why Russia is attempting to capture Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region. The Wall Street Journal takes us inside one of Shanghai’s mass quarantine centers, where there are no showers and lights are on 24/7. Reuters details how the city’s strict coronavirus policy is pitting neighbor against neighbor. It took Vice less than 24 hours to order an endangered tiger on Facebook. The Los Angeles Times introduces us to the guys who claim they created the term “420” half a century ago as code for smoking marijuana together. And they have proof.
4/20/20228 minutes
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What to know about changes to mask rules on planes

Many people are confused by the latest news about masking on planes and transit. USA Today breaks down what’s changed and what health officials recommend. Before Jerry Sandusky, Penn State football had another serial sexual predator. ESPN has the untold story of his crimes and the fight to bring him to justice. Politico visits Alaska to cover Sarah Palin’s congressional run and finds many people who express mixed feelings about her return to state politics. Kamala Harris is a Wordle fan. The Ringer asked her about how she plays.
4/19/20228 minutes, 48 seconds
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Why you may be paying a higher tax rate than the wealthiest Americans

A Russian Orthodox bishop is justifying Russia’s invasion of Ukraine with religious dogma. The Washington Post reports that this religious figure is creating a rift in the global Orthodox Church.   An investigation by ProPublica looks into the tax filings of the top 400 earners in the U.S. — and lays out how the ultrawealthy are able to pay a much lower tax rate than most other Americans.    NPR explains why the families of gig workers who are killed on the job aren’t guaranteed survivor’s benefits.    The New Yorker profiles a professional baby namer who, for a few thousand dollars, will create a bespoke list of options for parents looking for creative and original names for their child.
4/18/20229 minutes, 32 seconds
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Preview: She thought she knew her family — until she took a DNA test

When Amber van Moessner was growing up, she never questioned whether the man who raised her was her biological father. But when she was in her late 20s, she took a 23andMe genetic test and discovered that she was conceived via a sperm donor. Van Moessner’s story kicks off the podcast series BioHacked: Family Secrets, hosted by T.J. Raphael. Shumita Basu interviews Raphael and van Moessner about the donor-conception industry. This is a preview of that conversation. Listen to the full episode on Apple News In Conversation.
4/16/20221 minute, 43 seconds
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What’s Elon Musk’s endgame with Twitter?

Elon Musk has launched a hostile-takeover bid for Twitter. The Verge explores how Musk might change the app.   COVID is now the third leading cause of death in the United States. The Atlantic spoke to people who have lost loved ones to the virus and experienced intense isolation and a lack of societal support.    Today Major League Baseball commemorates the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s first game. A former Los Angeles Times sportswriter arguesthat the annual celebration glosses over the fact that the bigotry that existed before Robinson joined the league was largely allowed to persist.   It’s been 50 years since giant pandas were introduced to the National Zoo. The Washington Post looks at the role their presence has played in diplomacy and conservation efforts.
4/15/202211 minutes, 28 seconds
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Why it’ll be hard to prosecute Putin for war crimes

Holding Putin accountable for alleged war crimes may be difficult because of how the International Criminal Court works. Vox explains. The Asheville Citizen-Times reports that former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows has been removed from North Carolina voter rolls while under investigation for potential election fraud. It follows a New Yorker story looking into questions around the address he registered at in 2020. The new Apple TV+ podcast ‘Run, Bambi, Run’ examines the murder trial and prison escape of Laurie Bembenek. Weddings that were postponed during the pandemic are crowding the calendar this year. The Washington Post looks at how the industry is struggling to keep up.
4/14/20228 minutes, 54 seconds
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A survivor’s story from the Brooklyn subway attack

Police have named suspect in the shooting attack on the subway in Brooklyn. CNN has the story. Biden has a new plan to keep gasoline prices under control. Critics say it could damage the environment and some cars. Bloomberg explains. Many colleges waived standardized-testing requirements during the pandemic. NBC News checks in and finds that some universities say their classes have become more diverse, and that they're planning to make the change permanent. Inflation is sky-high. So how is AriZona iced tea still 99 cents? The Los Angeles Times has the answer.
4/13/20228 minutes, 9 seconds
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What to know about the man leading Russia’s military

The Washington Post explains what the appointment of a new top commander says about Russia’s potential war plans in Ukraine. NBC News reports on his controversial battlefield reputation. Many polling officials are considering leaving their roles after a difficult couple of years. At an election workers conference in Georgia, NPR finds a new crop of public servants who are stepping in to fill the void. Companies in a booming Indiana county are facing problems finding workers. Bloomberg Businessweek visits to understand where jobs in America are at right now. The Washington Post tells the surprising story of Bruce Willis’s on-set double.
4/12/20229 minutes, 8 seconds
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In Texas, a controversial murder charge over abortion

The Texas Tribune reports on what happened to the woman who was recently jailed and charged with murder over a self-induced abortion. America has a shortage of doctors. Vox looks into what’s holding so many medical-school graduates back from becoming physicians. Major political developments have been taking place in two countries that have major implications for the U.S. CNN reports on the first round of the French presidential election, while the BBC covers the unrest in Pakistan. It’s not just you. Many of us are more forgetful right now. The Wall Street Journal spoke with memory experts for recommendations on improving recall.
4/11/20227 minutes, 6 seconds
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The trailblazer who paved the way for Ketanji Brown Jackson

The Wall Street Journal looks at Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s historic confirmation to the Supreme Court and some of the key cases she’ll hear in her first term. A half-century ago, pioneering civil-rights attorney Constance Baker Motley could have been the first African American justice on the highest court. Politico examines her career. Bloomberg explores how rising food and fuel prices are destabilizing governments worldwide. The Atlantic reports on how America seems to be heading into another coronavirus wave with little political will to adequately measure or respond to it. Major 401(k) changes are coming. CNN explains what to know.
4/8/20228 minutes, 8 seconds
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How Ukrainian kids stay in school during the war

NPR reports on how millions of Ukrainian children are staying in school even as conflict rages. The return of Tiger Woods raises the stakes for the Masters. The Wall Street Journal sets the stage. Apple News has a complete guide to Major League Baseball’s Opening Day. A Rolling Stone reporter gets a look inside the lavish, top-secret world of super-private concerts, where rock stars earn millions playing for a few wealthy people at a time. The Washington Post profiles a carpet cleaner with a secret: He speaks dozens of languages.
4/7/202210 minutes, 24 seconds
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A heroic Ukrainian mayor, executed and buried in a forest

The execution of a Ukrainian mayor is getting attention as the actions of Russian troops come under global scrutiny. The Wall Street Journal tells her story. An NPR investigation found that a federal program to help low-income people with student loans failed them in many ways. American nurses are speaking out against the conviction of RaDonda Vaught, who faces eight years in prison after a fatal medication mistake. Kaiser Health News reports. The CBS station in Minneapolis was just looking for some old footage. It found an interview with Prince at age 11.
4/6/20229 minutes, 10 seconds
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How the U.S. is treating Ukrainian refugees differently

The Washington Post reports on the Ukrainian refugees trying to get into the U.S. by crossing its border with Mexico. The Cut speaks to an immigration advocate who says Ukrainians and Russians are receiving very different treatment than people from Latin American, Caribbean, and African countries. Bloomberg Businessweek has the story of how Trump’s favorite postmaster managed to hang on to his job when Biden took over. But now he has to save the Postal Service. National Geographic has the key takeaways from a new U.N. climate report. Researchers have finally decoded a full human genome. NBC News explains what the breakthrough could mean for science.
4/5/202210 minutes, 13 seconds
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How new reports of Russian atrocities are changing the war

New evidence of war crimes is reportedly emerging as Russians retreat from areas around Kyiv. The Wall Street Journal has an on-the-ground dispatch. The City has the inside story of how NYC workers pulled off an unexpected labor victory over Amazon. Vox explains the role that local jails play in America’s mass incarceration. Afghan girls fear they won’t be able to continue their education after the Taliban backtracked on a promise to reopen schools for them beyond sixth grade. Time reports on the impact on families, while the Washington Post looks at how the situation is presenting international donors with a tough dilemma. Aggressive behavior is way up during the pandemic. Experts on psychology, crime, and sociology speak to the Atlantic about what’s going on.
4/4/20229 minutes, 40 seconds
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Preview: Theranos’s Elizabeth Holmes was found guilty. Now her COO is on trial.

When it came to light that the blood-testing technology behind the biotech startup Theranos didn’t work, the enigmatic founder, Elizabeth Holmes, became the subject of intense scrutiny. While Holmes has been in the spotlight, there’s another person at the center of this story: Ramesh “Sunny” Balwani. Balwani and Holmes dated in secret for more than a decade, and he eventually became COO of Theranos. Balwani’s trial is now underway. Apple News In Conversation’s Shumita Basu spoke with Rebecca Jarvis, host of ABC Audio’s podcast on Theranos, The Dropout, about what to expect in this latest court case. This is a preview of that conversation. Listen to the full episode on Apple News In Conversation.
4/2/20222 minutes, 37 seconds
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Taking new aim at Russia’s economy

Politico reports on new U.S. sanctions against Russian tech companies, and examines how the ruble’s recent rebound has some analysts wondering whether existing sanctions are tough enough. American workers are testing positive for drug use at the highest rate in decades. The Wall Street Journal explains why. What’s the point of all these new shows about scammers? A Vox critic has thoughts. Yahoo Sports shows how a men’s Final Four matchup Saturday is blowing up wedding plans.
4/1/20228 minutes, 42 seconds
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What’s next for the SCOTUS conflict-of-interest controversy

Politico poses six questions about Justice Clarence Thomas, Ginni Thomas, and Supreme Court conflict of interest, and also looks at what Democrats might do next. Some politicians want to enact gas-tax holidays to make gas cheaper for drivers. The Wall Street Journal looks at how the debate cuts across the usual political divides. And Vice talks to an economist who says such moves have a mixed record when it comes to actually saving people money. Many Black neighborhoods have been left out of the current real-estate boom. The Washington Post reports on how the appraisal process may be part of the reason why. Astronomers have found the most distant star ever seen. National Geographic explains why it might hold the key to understanding the origin of the universe.
3/31/202210 minutes, 9 seconds
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What you're getting wrong about the Great Resignation

The Atlantic argues that the so-called Great Resignation is more of a Great Job Switcheroo. Ukraine is offering to become a neutral country. Vox explores what that might look like. Children who fled Afghanistan without their families are now in federal custody, many in facilities that have struggled to meet their needs. ProPublica investigates. Politico looks at how the rise of NFTs is creating tax complications.
3/30/20229 minutes, 38 seconds
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America’s long history of parents versus teachers

Culture wars over what’s taught in schools are nothing new. The New Yorker looks at how parents and teachers clashed in the 1920s. An anti-lynching bill is being signed into law after more than a century of failed attempts. The Washington Post has the story of how it finally got to the president’s desk. The war in Ukraine has seen a rise in hobbyist intelligence analysts who develop and share potential insights on social media. The Washington Post examines how their work can have both positive and negative impacts. The Wall Street Journal reports on how gyms say they’re seeing growing demand for classes and facilities that emphasize relaxation and recovery over sweat and struggle.
3/29/202210 minutes, 8 seconds
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What’s different about Biden’s plan to tax billionaires

Biden is proposing a new minimum tax on America’s wealthiest families. The Washington Post has details of the plan. The sitcom that propelled comedian Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Ukrainian presidency is now streaming again in the U.S. A critic writes in NBC News on the surreal experience of watching it while the war in Ukraine rages. Criminals are using cheap hardware sold online to convert guns into fully automatic weapons. Law enforcement is worried. The Trace investigates. The Oscars ceremony included a dramatic onstage slap, big wins for “CODA,” and many firsts. Apple News has the night’s best stories.
3/28/20228 minutes, 6 seconds
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Preview: What happened when a man made a chatbot of his dead fiancée

Joshua Barbeau lost his fiancée, Jessica, nearly a decade ago. For Joshua, getting over her death felt impossible. He was still grieving when he came across a website that allowed him to feel like he was communicating with Jessica again — by creating a customized, A.I.-powered chatbot. San Francisco Chronicle journalist Jason Fagone spoke with Shumita Basu about how the Jessica bot helped Joshua process his grief. This is a preview of that conversation. Listen to the full episode on Apple News In Conversation.
3/26/20222 minutes, 21 seconds
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They escaped other wars. They know what Ukrainians face.

Advocates want Biden to go further than his plan to allow 100,000 Ukrainian refugees into the U.S., Politico reports. NPR speaks to people who escaped other conflicts. The Washington Post uncovers text messages showing Ginni Thomas urged the White House to pursue unrelenting efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The New Yorker asks whether Thomas, wife of Justice Clarence Thomas, is a threat to the Supreme Court. Nearly half of the nominees for acting Oscars this year played real people. Vox looks at why this has been a proven path to winning. The Ringer explores whether the return of unvaccinated Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving to his home court could change the balance of power in the NBA.
3/25/202211 minutes, 8 seconds
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Biden’s trip isn’t the only major war news today

CNN lays out five key questions for Biden's diplomatic trip to Europe, as the war in Ukraine rages. Brittney Griner met with U.S. officials for first time since her detainment in Russia began. ESPN has details. Moscow’s stock market partially reopened after a monthlong shutdown. CNBC has coverage of its early trading, including some wild swings. Vox explains what we learned from Judge Jackson’s Supreme Court confirmation hearing. The Washington Post details how retired Americans on fixed incomes are having trouble paying basic bills as inflation cuts into household budgets. New findings show that climate change is making pollen season longer and more intense, as explained in Fast Company. The Manhattan prosecutor who resigned over a stalled Trump probe says the ex-president committed felonies. The Washington Post has the story. Time remembers Madeleine Albright, a trailblazing secretary of state.
3/24/20228 minutes, 9 seconds
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Food prices skyrocket because of Russia’s attack

The Wall Street Journal explains why Russia’s attack on Ukraine is causing the cost of food in many countries to skyrocket. Ketanji Brown Jackson’s experience as a Supreme Court clerk two decades ago suggests that much of the current court will be familiar to her, a longtime SCOTUS-watcher writes in the Atlantic. He was the last Afghan finance minister before the Taliban took over. Now he’s an Uber driver in America. The Washington Post tells his story. This is the first March Madness where college athletes can strike licensing deals. Some are scoring six-figure hauls, Bloomberg Businessweek reports.
3/23/202210 minutes, 30 seconds
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Why thousands of Russians are fleeing their country

The Wall Street Journal breaks down the ongoing Senate confirmation hearings for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman nominee to the Supreme Court.   Bloomberg Businessweek reports that Russians are fleeing their country, leaving behind homes, savings, and cars because they say the Russia they once knew is becoming unrecognizable. Masha Gessen also writes about this exodus for the New Yorker.   Billions of dollars have been invested in developing COVID vaccines and doing other COVID research — and the funding will pay scientific and medical dividends for decades. Kaiser Health News explains.   The Washington Post has the latest updates on the conflict in Ukraine.   A rescue team is searching the area where a Boeing jetliner crashed in southern China yesterday. Reuters has the story.   Dangerous storms are forecast for parts of the U.S. over the next few days. Multiple tornadoes have already touched down in Texas and Oklahoma, where USA Today is reporting that tens of thousands of people were without power this morning. 
3/22/202212 minutes, 8 seconds
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A Russian oligarch on what we get wrong about Putin

Can sanctioning Russian oligarchs influence Putin’s actions in Ukraine? Bloomberg Businessweek asks an oligarch, in an exclusive interview. As Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis deepens, its young people are stepping up. National Geographic tells their stories. Russia’s war on Ukraine has dramatically increased the price of nickel. The Atlantic looks at how some Americans are now hoarding coins. NPR lays out what to expect in the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson. Tales from March Madness: ESPN has the story of number 15 seed Saint Peter’s, which pulled off another upset in the men’s tournament. And USA Today covers Lauren Jensen, who carried Creighton to its first Sweet 16 by beating her old team.
3/21/20228 minutes, 55 seconds
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Preview: In Conversation with Jon Stewart. Plus, a bonus episode.

Every weekend on Apple News Today, we’ve been bringing you interviews with some of the best journalists and experts. But now we’re changing things up a bit — and don’t worry, it’s good news. Apple News In Conversation is becoming its own podcast. Our latest episode is with Jon Stewart, and on it we talk about his new show on Apple TV+, ‘The Problem With Jon Stewart.’ This is a preview of that conversation.   Plus: If you want to hear more from Jon Stewart, we’re also bringing you a bonus episode from his podcast. The episode is called “Jon Talks Climate: It Gets Heated.”
3/19/20221 hour, 7 minutes, 7 seconds
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China can influence Russia. Will it?

China can influence Russia, but no one should get their hopes up about Beijing being able to stop the war in Ukraine, Time argues. Recent bomb threats against historically Black colleges and universities are only the latest in a long, violent American history of attempts to keep Black people out of classrooms. The Atlantic lays out why, while ABC News examines what the White House and Congress are doing to address the threats. People have very little legal protection against weight-based discrimination in the workplace. Bloomberg Businessweek looks at moves to change that. Sleep experts tell the Washington Post that a Senate bill to make daylight saving time permanent gets it wrong. They want standard time all year. A Vox graphic shows what it would be like if American stopped changing its clocks. And Road & Track looks into how lack of sleep can lead to dangerous driving.
3/18/202213 minutes, 20 seconds
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How Ukrainians are working to save art from Russian attacks

The Washington Post highlights the museums, libraries, and galleries in Ukraine that are rushing to protect the country’s history, culture, and artifacts from Russian attacks. Vox has key details from a data analysis of Texas primary voting, which shows the impact of restrictive new ID requirements. The state of Tennessee is taking over the finances of a small town, claiming a history of mismanagement. Local leaders say race is a factor. The Tennessee Lookout has the story. CNBC explains what the Fed’s rate hike means for your personal finances.
3/17/20229 minutes, 35 seconds
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Zelenskyy’s emotional address to Congress for more help

Ukraine’s president pleaded for more U.S. help in a virtual address to Congress. ABC News covered his speech. Journalist Jason Rezaian was held hostage in Iran. He writes in the Washington Post about why he’s so concerned for the WNBA star Brittney Griner, who was arrested in Russia. One year after the murders targeting spas in Georgia, Asian American women say they feel increasingly unsafe. CNN looks at efforts to tackle the problem. CNN reports on rising COVID infection and hospitalization numbers in Europe that hint at a new danger the U.S. may face soon. NPR looks at White House concerns around running out of money to cover COVID tests and vaccines. The U.S. tried making daylight saving time permanent in the 1970s. Washingtonian looks at how much people hated it.
3/16/202210 minutes, 49 seconds
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Mariupol is under siege. Civilians are paying the price.

The Washington Post explains how the Ukraine capital’s outgunned defenders have kept Russian forces at bay. And it has a story about a woman who’s trying to get back into the besieged city of Mariupol to help her trapped family. The Hill explains why many states are flush with tax revenue, two years after the onset of the pandemic. Marine plastic pollution is a big problem — and, Vox argues, some efforts to deal with it may actually be doing more harm than good. The NCAA is making new moves to address inequities between the women’s and men’s basketball tournaments. A USA Today columnist says it’s a start — but that much more needs to be done.
3/15/20229 minutes, 1 second
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What it’s like to survive a Russian missile attack

Foreign fighters including Americans were at a military training facility in Ukraine when it was hit by a Russian missile strike. They tell BuzzFeed News what it was like — and provide exclusive video. The Wall Street Journal introduces us to more of the foreigners signing up to join Ukraine’s fight against Russia. They left one war and wound up in another. Yemenis, Afghans, and Syrians flee Ukraine. The Washington Post has their story. Heard about the truck-driver shortage during the pandemic? Time explains why the problem is not what you think — and why the rush to train new drivers could have terrible consequences. Tom Brady says he’s reversing his retirement decision and returning to the NFL for a 23rd season. ESPN has details, while USA Today lays out how the Super Bowl champ’s surprise move made a half-million-dollar sports collectible practically worthless.
3/14/20228 minutes, 45 seconds
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In Conversation: Uncovering slave-ship wrecks, a diver puts lost souls to rest

During the trans-Atlantic slave trade, an estimated 12.5 million people who were enslaved traveled from Africa to the Americas, on 36,000 voyages. Roughly a thousand of these vessels sank, but only a few have ever been found. National Geographic explorer and diver Tara Roberts spoke with “Apple News Today” host Duarte Geraldino about her experience identifying and documenting the remains of slave-ship wrecks — and how she’s hoping to honor the lives of these people who have been all but forgotten by history.
3/12/202218 minutes, 8 seconds
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War puts a spotlight on Ukrainian surrogates

Attacks on Ukrainian civilians are highlighting the country’s position as a major destination for couples seeking surrogate mothers. The Atlantic has the story. Communities have spent billions of dollars settling police-misconduct claims over the past decade. A Washington Post data analysis finds that thousands of officers who were repeatedly accused of wrongdoing were linked with multiple payouts. Time details how Hong Kong became China's biggest COVID-19 problem. It’s time to change the clocks again. The Washington Post dispels five myths about daylight saving time. ESPN breaks down everything you need to know about the labor deal that’s ending Major League Baseball’s lockout.
3/11/202210 minutes, 7 seconds
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Why Russian moms call Ukraine to see if their sons are alive

A hotline helps Russians find out if family members in the military have been killed in Ukraine. It’s run by the Ukrainian government. CNN has the story. Bloomberg Businessweek explains why the next big legal fights over abortion access may center on mifepristone, a pill that can end pregnancies. The Wall Street Journal looks at what’s inside Biden’s new executive order on cryptocurrency and why it moved markets. If you’ve rented a car from Hertz, there could be a warrant out for your arrest. USA Today has stories of people whose lives were disrupted when they were accused of stealing rental cars that they say they returned.
3/10/20229 minutes, 14 seconds
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A Ukrainian doctor on how it feels to treat Russian soldiers

BuzzFeed News has the story of a Ukrainian doctor whose professional ethics mean he must treat Russian soldiers who invaded his country. NPR reports on how Russia is arresting anti-war protesters by the thousands. The first January 6 defendant to go to trial has been found guilty on all counts. BuzzFeed News explains how the verdict could influence the next moves for hundreds of other people charged in the attack. The Biden administration is banning Russian energy imports. CNN looks at the key details of the move, and analyzes how shutting off Russian oil has the U.S. rethinking its relationships with other resource-rich countries, including those America has sought to isolate or avoid.
3/9/20228 minutes, 9 seconds
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How Russia’s war destroyed decades of economic progress

The Kremlin spent decades improving its business ties to the West. The Washington Post shows how the invasion of Ukraine destroyed that progress in days. War videos from Ukraine, including very graphic ones, are overwhelming Americans’ social-media feeds in a way that few foreign stories do. The New Yorker examines the impact. The Hill reports on Biden’s planned visit to Texas to focus on “burn pits,” military-waste-disposal fires blamed by many veterans for devastating health problems. CBS News looks at how he addressed this issue in his State of the Union speech. The Athletic explains why it’s a big deal that the NFL slapped a strict suspension on a player who placed bets on games. And USA Today looks at pro football’s long, complicated relationship with betting. On International Women’s Day, Apple News has special collection of stories recognizing trailblazers and game changers, the extraordinary women reshaping the world.
3/8/202210 minutes, 16 seconds
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“Morgues are full.” Ukraine’s struggle to bury the dead.

As the death toll rises in Ukraine, family members are struggling to bury their loved ones amid relentless shelling and danger. The Washington Post has the story. Gas prices are getting higher as Western countries consider banning Russian oil imports. The Wall Street Journal has details on a rare U.S. meeting with Venezuelan officials about possibly lifting oil sanctions on their country. Reuters reports on U.S. diplomats who are working to secure release of a basketball player detained by Russia.
3/7/20227 minutes, 11 seconds
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How real is the threat of nuclear war?

NATO member states have been clear they will not directly intervene in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. But many Ukrainians are calling on the West to do more. Apple News Today host Duarte Geraldino talks with Ukrainian activist Daria Kaleniuk, who is urging NATO allies to declare a no-fly zone over Ukraine. In response, cohost Shumita Basu speaks with Vox senior correspondent Zack Beauchamp, who says any type of military intervention by the West would be catastrophic and could trigger a nuclear attack from Russia.
3/5/202225 minutes, 37 seconds
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Why implementing a no-fly zone over Ukraine could be catastrophic

A Vox reporter lays out the risks of setting up a no-fly zone over Ukraine, and warns that doing so would be tantamount to going to war with Russia.  The New Yorker looks at Russia’s attempts to ban its remaining independent media outlets over their coverage of the war in Ukraine. And Reuters reports on why the EU banned two state-controlled Russian media outlets from broadcasting within its borders.  The Courier-Journal explains why the world will be watching Oksana Masters as the Paralympics get underway. She is the most decorated athlete on the U.S. roster — and was born in Ukraine.
3/4/20228 minutes, 59 seconds
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A Ukrainian activist begs the West to do more

NPR looks at what Russia’s role in the Syrian civil war tells us about its strategy of targeting civilians during conflict.  The U.S. and its allies may have slapped economy-cratering sanctions on Russia, but some Ukrainian activists say it’s not enough. The Washington Post explains the kind of backup Ukraine is calling for.  Over the past week, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has become a household name across the world. The Wall Street Journal shares what you need to know about the man standing up to Putin.
3/3/202210 minutes, 5 seconds
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Biden’s message to Putin: You won’t win

The Washington Post recaps Biden’s first State of the Union address. And Vox analyses what the war in Ukraine tells us about the limits of U.S. power abroad.
3/2/202210 minutes, 21 seconds
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“This is terror”: Zelenskyy accuses Russia of war crimes

The L.A. Times has the latest updates from Ukraine, including the bombardment of Kharkiv, its second-largest city.    The Ukrainian government is recruiting volunteers to join an “I.T. army” to carry out cyberattacks on Russian sites. Wired has the story.    The State of the Union address typically highlights domestic achievements. The Washington Post explains why this year’s is likely to be different.   Bloomberg News talks with Jack Sweeney, a 19-year-old famous for creating a Twitter account that tracks Elon Musk’s private jet. Now he’s doing the same for the planes of Russian oligarchs.
3/1/20229 minutes, 57 seconds
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How Ukrainian civilians are defending their country

Ukrainian civilians, many with no military training, are taking up arms to defend their country. The Washington Post explains how President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s willingness to defy Vladimir Putin and document it on social media has turned him into a national hero.  The Guardian and the Wall Street Journal report that newly announced sanctions on Russian financial institutions are poised to interrupt the country’s economy and undercut its ability to do business globally. Hundreds of thousands of people are fleeing Ukraine. Business Insider and The Globe and Mail look at how the warm welcome Ukrainians are receiving from neighboring countries compares to the treatment of migrants and refugees from the Middle East and Africa.
2/28/202210 minutes, 26 seconds
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David Remnick on Putin’s endgame

This week, Russia launched an unprovoked attack on Ukraine — beginning what could be the largest war in Europe in decades. Apple News Today host Shumita Basu spoke with New Yorker editor David Remnick, a longtime expert on Russia, about how we got here and what this war means for the U.S. and the rest of the world.
2/26/202222 minutes, 50 seconds
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Why China’s angle on Russia’s war matters

The Wall Street Journal reports on how attacks on Ukraine’s capital by Russian forces have intensified. World leaders are condemning Vladimir Putin’s actions. The New Yorker looks at why his attack on Ukraine may qualify him a as war criminal under the Geneva Conventions. Bloomberg looks at how China is being very quiet about what it thinks of Russia’s invasion. The Atlantic argues that the war in Europe may make it more likely that China will try to seize control of Taiwan by force.
2/25/20229 minutes, 51 seconds
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Inside Putin’s attack on Ukraine

Russian forces invaded Ukraine by land, air, and sea. Reuters and BuzzFeed News report on the biggest assault by one state against another in Europe since World War II. Two Manhattan prosecutors resigned from an investigation into Donald Trump. The Wall Street Journal explains how this raises questions about the future of the years-long probe. Texas’s child-welfare agency says it will investigate instances of transgender youth receiving gender-affirming health care as possible child abuse. The Houston Chronicle has the story.
2/24/20228 minutes, 47 seconds
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A war in Ukraine could push food prices up even more

CNBC explains how an invasion of Ukraine might disrupt supply chains and drive up your grocery bill. States are placing new restrictions on what schools can teach about race and gender issues. The Washington Post speaks with teachers who have begun censoring themselves as a result. Romance scams reached an all-time high last year. In Cosmopolitan, a woman tells the story of how she saved her grandmother from one. There’s one factor that makes you more likely to fall for a scam, no matter your age, income, or education level. AARP tells us what it is. A 16-year-old just made history by beating the world’s top chess player. CNN has the story.
2/23/20228 minutes, 12 seconds
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What Putin really wants is bigger than Ukraine

Players from the women's national soccer team have settled their equal-pay lawsuit against the U.S. Soccer Federation for $24 million. ESPN has the story. As Russian military forces threaten Ukraine, the Wall Street Journal explains how Putin’s larger goal is unraveling the post–Cold War agreements that humiliated his country. NBC News reports on how new voting rules in Texas are confusing some people, raising fears that many mail voters won’t have their ballots counted. Bloomberg Businessweek looks at how investors are seeing potential profits in helping low-income people sue companies accused of environmental damage. The Washington Post highlights the magic of today’s date, 2-22-22, and some of the ways people are marking it.
2/22/20229 minutes, 26 seconds
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Biden’s open to meeting Putin. Here are the risks.

CNN analyzes why a potential meeting with Putin presents huge risks for Biden. Autocrats, not terrorists, are increasingly holding Americans captive abroad. The New Yorker reports on this trend. NPR has the story of a 16-year-old who wanted to get vaccinated against COVID — and had to hide it from his parents. The data shows Americans going out more and more — but not yet to offices. The Wall Street Journal breaks down why most people who have the choice are still working from home.
2/21/20228 minutes, 55 seconds
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In Conversation: Did a Texas man confess to a murder he didn’t commit?

When 52-year-old Larry Driskill was questioned by Texas Ranger James Holland in 2015, he thought he was helping police solve a cold case. But within 24 hours, Driskill confessed to a murder he says he didn’t commit. He’s now in prison. Maurice Chammah spent a year looking into this case and others like it for the Marshall Project. He spoke to Apple News Today host Duarte Geraldino about the techniques used by law enforcement that can result in false confessions.
2/19/202223 minutes, 21 seconds
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Why the West fears a Russian “false flag” plot

The Wall Street Journal reports on rising tension amid new accusations over Russian troop movements and possible ceasefire violations inside Ukraine. USA Today explains what a false flag operation is and why the West says Russia may launch one. A Texas jury found a former Los Angeles Angels employee guilty of supplying the drugs that led to the death of pitcher Tyler Skaggs. The L.A. Times has been following the case. The Texas Tribune looks into Corbevax, the low-cost, patent-free vaccine that could be key to protecting more people in the developing world from COVID. Middle schoolers launched a tiny vessel from New Hampshire in 2020. They thought it was lost. It was found in Norway 462 days later. CNN has the story.
2/18/20227 minutes, 53 seconds
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Athletes complain of double standard in Valieva doping case

U.S. sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson has accused sports authorities of a double standard in how she and Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva were treated after positive drug tests. The IOC denies the claim, the Guardian reports. Deadspin argues that the handling of Valieva’s situation is setting a dangerous precedent. Texans are racing to get early appointments for abortions to get ahead of the six-week deadline set by the state’s restrictive law. The Washington Post looks at how clinics were unprepared for the influx. The suspension of avocado imports from Mexico highlights how the country’s cartels are violently targeting its farmers. Prices in the U.S. are expected to jump. Eater has the story. Lots of people can’t stand cold weather — including, as Sports Illustrated discovers, many Winter Olympians.
2/17/20229 minutes, 45 seconds
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This legal argument could be the key to future gun lawsuits

Families of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting victims won a rare settlement with a gun company. The Trace explains how the victory could be a template for suing gunmakers. The Guardian reports on Prince Andrew's settlement with Virginia Giuffre in the sexual-assault case she brought against him. The case highlighted his connection to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell. George P. Bush was once seen as a potential president, like his uncle and grandfather. Now he’s facing an uphill race in Texas. Texas Monthly explains how Donald Trump may get the last laugh. NBC News has details of a breakthrough transplant that put one patient’s HIV into remission, and how it may be able to cure other people in the future.
2/16/20227 minutes, 46 seconds
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Accountants drop Trump, call financial statements unreliable

Russia’s military says it’s pulling some troops back from near the Ukrainian border. NBC News explains why it’s not immediately clear if the move will de-escalate tensions. The Trump Organization’s longtime accounting firm says nearly 10 years of the company’s financial statements are unreliable. CNN covers the latest big development in the fraud probes of the business. Home births became more popular during the pandemic. Time explores the reasons why. Vox looks at a pilot program that’s trying something unusual to keep people from going back to prison: giving them money with no strings attached. A Harvard Business School class aims to teach managers to be happy. The Wall Street Journal describes how it’s proven especially popular during the pandemic.
2/15/20228 minutes, 35 seconds
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Ukraine says the clock is ticking for diplomacy with Russia

CNN reports that the possibility of a diplomatic solution to escalating tensions between Russia and the West are slipping away. Over the weekend, foreign embassies withdrew staff from Ukraine, airlines suspended flights, and the U.S. urged its citizens to leave the country.    Thousands of Black employees at Tesla are suing the company over racism and harassment claims. The Los Angeles Times has the story.    Cosmopolitan explains what you need to know about trials that are underway for a new form of male birth control.    Romance is usually on display during the ice-dancing competition at the Olympics. The Wall Street Journal asks whether that’s something athletes should really be comfortable with.
2/14/202210 minutes, 9 seconds
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In Conversation: Are we in the golden age of 'Jeopardy'?

When host Alex Trebek died in 2020, Jeopardy’s future was unclear. Could the game show continue to be successful without him? So far, the answer is yes. Claire McNear, a reporter at The Ringer and the author of Answers in the Form of Questions: A Definitive History and Insider’s Guide to Jeopardy!, spoke with Apple News Today host Shumita Basu about all things Jeopardy — from superfan online message boards to game strategy to Trebek’s legacy. 
2/12/202220 minutes, 11 seconds
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Tensions rise as Canadian truckers block crossings into U.S.

Tensions are rising along the U.S.–Canada border, where protests against pandemic restrictions have now blocked a third crossing. CNN spoke with some of the demonstrators.    The Washington Post explains how the move by a number of Democrat-led states to lift mask mandates reflects a changing political landscape.   The International Testing Agency has confirmed that Russian figure-skater Kamila Valieva tested positive for a banned substance weeks before she competed in the Winter Games. An expedited hearing will determine whether she can continue to take part. Business Insider has the story.    Super Bowl LVI will mark the first time that more than 100 million Americans can legally bet on the game. Bloomberg Businessweek looks at a new era of sports betting. 
2/11/202211 minutes, 15 seconds
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Why Ahmaud Arbery’s killers are back on trial

Anonymous sources at the National Archives and Records Administration tell the Washington Post that the agency is asking the DOJ to investigate Trump’s handling of White House records.   Jury selection is underway in the hate-crimes trial of Ahmaud Arbery’s murderers. As Vox explains, the government will need to prove that Arbery’s death was motivated by racial animus.    Sixteen young people in Montana are taking the state to court over climate change. They allege that its energy policies are infringing on their right to a clean and healthy environment. NBC News has the story.   At the Winter Games, NBC Sports reports that Chloe Kim and Nathan Chen won gold medals for Team USA. And ESPN has the latest on reporting that a Russian figure skater tested positive for a banned drug.
2/10/20229 minutes, 3 seconds
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What to know about the DOJ’s massive bitcoin seizure

Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell criticized the Republican National Committee for censuring lawmakers participating in the January 6 investigation. USA Today reports on a growing divide in the GOP.     The Justice Department seized more than $3.6 billion in bitcoin last week that had been stolen by hackers — its biggest financial seizure ever. The Wall Street Journal looks at the couple who were arrested for attempting to launder the cryptocurrency haul.   Convoy protests in Ottawa are putting the city at the center of the far-right movement against vaccine mandates. As the demonstrations stretch into their second week, Politico explores how they’re disrupting trade along the U.S–Canada border.    Charles Dickens was a great writer, but one with terrible penmanship. The Guardian highlights the Dickens Code, a contest that asks people around the world to help decipher the Victorian-era author’s handwriting.
2/9/202210 minutes, 10 seconds
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Go-bags and bunkers: Ukrainians brace for potential invasion

As tensions in Eastern Europe intensify, the Washington Post looks at how Ukrainians are preparing for a potential Russian invasion.   Winter Olympians who’ve tested positive for COVID-19 say they’re being subjected to substandard living conditions. USA Today has the story.   Americans have lost billions of dollars to fraudulent calls. One journalist writes for Wired about what happened when her mom fell victim to a phone scam.   Nominations for the Razzie Awards are out. The L.A. Times reports that, this year, the tongue-in-cheek answer to the Oscars made a whole category just for Bruce Willis films.
2/8/202210 minutes, 58 seconds
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Why rents are likely to keep rising this year

Households across the U.S. are struggling to deal with climbing rental prices. The Washington Post reports that the rise is likely to continue this year.   Hospitals are filling staffing shortages by hiring nurses from overseas. But Bloomberg Businessweek spoke with foreign nurses who say they feel trapped in their contracts and taking legal action.   Traffic fines can have a devastating impact on the lives of poorer Americans. The Atlantic explores an argument for scaling them according to income.   Ice-skating fans are hoping to see a move at the Olympics that symbolizes how far athleticism in ice skating has come: the quadruple axel. No skater has yet landed one in competition. The Wall Street Journal explains why the jump is nearly impossible to land.
2/7/20229 minutes, 35 seconds
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In Conversation: They survived school shootings. How are they 20 years later?

In 1998, a student opened fire at a middle-school dance, killing one teacher and wounding another teacher and two students. Journalist Marin Cogan was a sixth grader at the time, and she recalls the shock and horror she and her classmates felt. Back then, school shootings were far more rare; kids and educators didn’t have the language or the tools to talk about — much less process — their trauma. For Vox, Cogan recently connected with survivors of other school shootings that took place in the 1990s. She spoke with Apple News Today host Shumita Basu about coming of age in a world wholly unprepared to deal with the aftermath of mass school shootings.
2/5/202219 minutes, 11 seconds
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States crack down on shoddy COVID-testing practices

Investigators are going after a COVID-testing company accused of “invalid, false and delayed” results. USA Today has the story. As a brutal winter storm slices through the U.S. and boosts demand for energy, CNBC talks to Texas bitcoin miners who are powering down to help the electricity grid. Time finds that a program that was supposed to speed up the resettlement process for Afghans fleeing to the U.S. has left thousands marooned in the system. The Ringer ranks Winter Olympic events by how terrifying they are.
2/4/20228 minutes, 54 seconds
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Yes, teachers are quitting. Here’s where they’re going.

The Pentagon says U.S. special forces carried out a counterterrorism mission in Syria. The Washington Post reports on what’s known so far. You’ve probably heard that teachers are leaving schools. The Wall Street Journal looks at where they’re going. U.S. states and cities are backing an unusual lawsuit by Mexico against American gun manufacturers. The Trace explains. Health care in rural America had been deteriorating for years, as hospitals lost money and faced closure. Then the pandemic made everything worse. Bloomberg Businessweek has the story. Before athletes can compete in the Winter Olympics, they face a mundane challenge: getting skis, bobsleds, and other bulky winter gear on an airplane. The Los Angeles Times asks them how they do it.
2/3/20228 minutes, 18 seconds
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A Black coach accuses NFL of racism in explosive lawsuit

A Black former NFL coach is suing the league and several teams, alleging racism in hiring. ESPN examines the lawsuit. As Black History Month begins, many books that examine racism are disappearing from school library shelves. NBC News looks at the growing trend of parents fighting to ban books. The Washington Post speaks to billionaire Leon Cooperman about the moral calculations of the extremely wealthy. You probably know rodents don’t make good weather forecasters, but it’s fun to read FiveThirtyEight’s running of the Groundhog Day numbers anyway.
2/2/20228 minutes, 59 seconds
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Families face tough choices as extra child tax credit ends

The end of the enhanced child tax credit is forcing parents to make difficult choices. CNN tells some of their stories, while NPR crunches the numbers on the measure’s impact. Death doulas provide comfort in people’s final days. Time looks at how demand for the service grew during the pandemic. Chinese American freestyle-skiing Olympian Eileen Gu must walk a political tightrope, competing for China without making comments that anger the government and her corporate sponsors. Bloomberg Businessweek reports on the tough challenge she faces, all at the age of 18. The New York Times is buying Wordle. The Wall Street Journal reports on the deal, how the simple word game is sparking complicated debates about strategy, and how it’s inspiring some players to get their fix by digging out old childhood games.
2/1/20228 minutes, 41 seconds
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Keeping score in the congressional-redistricting fight

FiveThirtyEight explains what you need to know about redistricting ahead of the midterm elections. Two of the men convicted of murdering Black Georgia jogger Ahmaud Arbery have reached plea agreements on federal hate-crime charges, CNN reports. An attorney for his mother says the family will oppose the deal. Americans aren’t just quitting jobs in record numbers. A Recode report pulls data showing they’re also starting their own businesses at the highest rate in years. Axolotls are quirky amphibian pets with special abilities that could lead to breakthroughs in human health. They’re also extremely rare in the wild. Vox has the story. The teams, the players, the ads, the halftime show. Apple News’s special Super Bowl collection has stories for football fans and everyone else.
1/31/202210 minutes, 13 seconds
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In Conversation: David Wallace-Wells makes the case for climate reparations

Developing countries are bearing the brunt of the worst effects of our changing climate, despite contributing the least to carbon emissions. New York magazine’s David Wallace-Wells makes the case that wealthy nations should front the cost of cleaning up the environment — and that we should think of this as a form of climate reparations. Wallace-Wells spoke with Apple News Today host Shumita Basu about this idea.
1/29/202222 minutes, 16 seconds
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How Russia’s military moves could raise your energy bill

It’s five years since then-president Donald Trump issued a ban on travel from several Muslim-majority countries. A HuffPost investigation finds lives forever changed in America and around the world. USA Today examines how a decision by Putin to invade Ukraine could affect American fuel and energy prices. The Washington Post explores how Europe’s reliance on Russian energy raises the question of whether the Kremlin might try to use its resources as a weapon against the West. When an iceberg bigger than Delaware broke off the Antarctic Peninsula in 2017 and drifted toward Argentina, melting as it went, the environmental consequences were devastating. USA Today explains why. A new generation of circus performers is using TikTok to redefine their field and reach new audiences. Input has the story.
1/28/202210 minutes, 28 seconds
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How Biden’s Supreme Court pick could make history

President Biden has promised to nominate a Black woman to the Supreme Court. Vox looks at the leading contenders. Axios breaks down why so many American mayors are getting into cryptocurrency. People applying to become U.S. citizens are facing long waits, in some cases because key paperwork is locked underground in limestone caves. The Wall Street Journal explains. Elite-level wheelchair-tennis players tend to play to a surprisingly older age than their nondisabled counterparts. 538 crunches the numbers to work out why.
1/27/20229 minutes, 24 seconds
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How inflation wipes out your pay raise

With prices rising faster than wages right now, even many people who’ve gotten raises lately are struggling to pay for basic needs. The Washington Post tells some of their stories. One of Vladimir Putin’s biggest enemies tells Time that the U.S. and allies are missing important things as they deal with the Russia–Ukraine crisis. A journalist told the president of Mexico she feared for her life. Then she was killed. The Los Angeles Times explains why covering the news there has become so dangerous. The Wall Street Journal reports on how Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens have been denied entry into baseball’s Hall of Fame. The Ringer calls the decision an awkward stalemate in the attempt to wrestle with the era of performance-enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball. In the Players’ Tribune, Allen Iverson reads his tribute to fellow NBA legend Kobe Bryant, who died two years ago today in a helicopter crash.
1/26/202211 minutes, 2 seconds
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Why high meat prices might not just be a pandemic thing

What’s the deal with high meat prices? Is there more to them than just the pandemic supply-chain crunch? Reuters examines the Biden administration’s argument that the meatpacking industry is partly to blame. Political and legal fights over mask mandates are heating up across the country. The Wall Street Journal looks at the latest developments from New York and Virginia. Not long ago, earthquakes were unusual in Texas, which now sees hundreds of magnitude-2.5 quakes and above every year. Vox explains why seismologists blame the oil and gas industry. Calling all skygazers: NASA is calling for volunteers to help it monitor cloud coverage in our changing climate — and all you need is your smartphone. The Washington Post has the details.
1/25/20228 minutes, 30 seconds
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Why federal funds for hungry kids aren’t reaching them

A pandemic program to help low-income kids in America get enough to eat is struggling. The Washington Post reports. NBC News looks at the options Biden is weighing for responding to a Russian invasion of Ukraine, including potentially moving U.S. troops to nearby countries. As electric cars grow in popularity, Inside Climate News shows how researchers are working to get better at recycling dead batteries. Input Magazine explores how some influencers who feature animals on their social-media accounts have started cloning the creatures, in part to keep followers engaged. Filing taxes will be rough this year. The Wall Street Journal explains why, and how to deal with it.
1/24/20229 minutes, 31 seconds
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In Conversation: Nikole Hannah-Jones on the 1619 Project and reframing U.S. history

Nikole Hannah-Jones is a Pulitzer Prize–winning reporter for The New York Times Magazine and the creator of the 1619 Project. The project reframes American history around an important date that isn’t mentioned in many history books: 1619, the beginning of American slavery. Hannah-Jones has expanded on the idea and turned it into a book called The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story. Hannah-Jones spoke with Apple News Today host Shumita Basu about the project.
1/22/202224 minutes, 30 seconds
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Why the “Havana syndrome” mystery still isn’t solved

The Washington Post has details of a new CIA report that says it is unlikely that a “worldwide campaign” by a foreign power is behind the condition known as Havana syndrome. The New Yorker has been covering this story for a long time. An extensive investigation by the Washington Post finds that more than 1,700 U.S. congressmen enslaved Black people. NPR explains why many low-income nations have COVID-vaccination rates of below 10%, while many wealthy countries have passed 80%. The hit soundtrack of Disney’s ‘Encanto’ is creating a whole new audience for Colombian music. Billboard speaks to singer Mauro Castillo.
1/21/202211 minutes, 16 seconds
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How Biden could respond if Putin invades Ukraine

Reuters reports on Biden saying he thinks Vladimir Putin may “move in” on Ukraine, as well as potential actions the U.S. and allies might take against Russia if that happens. The Atlantic looks at how Democrats’ failure to pass sweeping new election legislation is a reminder of the limits of the very slim majority the party has in Congress. California was supposed to clear cannabis convictions. Tens of thousands of people are still languishing. The Los Angeles Times investigated. Supply-chain issues are making a new type of Girl Scout cookie hard to find. But one determined Washington Post reporter managed to get a taste.
1/20/20228 minutes, 29 seconds
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How well has Biden handled the pandemic? Experts weigh in.

NPR speaks to medical experts for a report card on how President Biden has managed the pandemic in the last year. New York’s attorney general says there’s evidence Donald Trump and his company falsely valued assets. The Wall Street Journal breaks down the latest court filing. Recode’s Rebecca Heilweil explains the fight between airlines and wireless carriers about the rollout of expanded 5G technology that could speed up smartphone downloads. America’s fertility rate sank during the pandemic. Meanwhile, many Nordic countries had a baby boom. National Geographic looks into what’s going on. Vox speaks to researchers who say a child’s baby teeth are a potential gold mine of information about their physical and mental development.
1/19/202210 minutes, 42 seconds
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How cryptocurrency became a big political issue

Cryptocurrency is becoming a bona fide issue in American politics, influencing candidates and their campaigns. Politico has the story. Who betrayed Anne Frank and her family to the Nazis in 1944? Reuters reports on an extensive investigation that has revealed a surprising new suspect. New surveys detailed in the Washington Post show how COVID made it hard for scientists to do their jobs, particularly women. The Wall Street Journal explains how “Baby Shark” became the first YouTube video to pass 10 billion views.
1/18/20228 minutes, 44 seconds
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On MLK Day, new urgency over voting rights

The Washington Post looks at how setbacks on voting rights fit among the many challenges President Biden is facing as he seeks to advance his agenda. Bloomberg Businessweek reports on the ways young women’s health, education, and independence are suffering as the pandemic erases decades of progress in developing nations. Tonga is recovering after it was hit by a devastating volcanic eruption and tsunami over the weekend. Reuters has the latest on the aftermath. National Geographic looks at the science behind the blast. The Wall Street Journal crunches the numbers to show how TikTok’s top stars are earning more money than CEOs of some of the world’s biggest companies.
1/17/202210 minutes, 9 seconds
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In Conversation: How one journalist helped her dad die

If you’re suffering from a terminal illness and have only a few months to live, should you be allowed to choose how and when to end your life? Ten states in the country allow patients to do just that — a practice referred to as medical aid in dying — under highly regulated laws. In April 2020, Bloomberg journalist Esmé Deprez’s father became the second person to end his life under the Maine Death with Dignity Act. Deprez speaks with Apple News Today host Duarte Geraldino about that experience and a California case making its way through the courts now that could expand the scope of the law.
1/15/202228 minutes, 2 seconds
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Inside Afghanistan’s hunger crisis

The New Yorker reports from Afghanistan, where more than 20 million people are on the brink of famine. NBC News explains how recent deadly home fires in New York City and Philadelphia underscore the systemic racism in urban planning. Sales of vinyl records overtook those of CDs last year, a sign of the changing attitudes of music fans. Quartz looks into what’s going on. A U.S. court ruled that gruyère-style cheeses made in America can be called gruyère. Swiss and French cheesemakers plan to keep fighting in court. Food & Wine has the story.
1/14/20229 minutes, 19 seconds
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Why so many U.S. grocery shelves are empty

CNN explains why so many Americans are finding empty shelves when they go to grocery stores. Reuters reports on how money is pouring into secretary-of-state races in swing states. The winners will oversee rules and certification of future elections. And an NPR analysis shows that many Republican candidates running to oversee state elections are supporters of Trump’s failed attempt to overturn the election he lost. The Wall Street Journal has the story of a kidnapping negotiator who faced his biggest test: saving his own wife from bandits. The Washington Post looks at the growing popularity of tool libraries, lending hubs that allow people to take home tools and appliances then return them.
1/13/20229 minutes, 35 seconds
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“Wild Things" episode 1: What Went Wrong?

Apple News Today is bringing you a special episode — the first installment of Wild Things, a new podcast series from Apple TV+. Over the course of nearly half a century, Siegfried & Roy performed 30,000 shows for 50 million people and generated well over $1 billion in ticket sales. Although the German-born illusionists and pop culture icons were mega-famous, much about their private lives, eccentric public personae, and tragic final show remained shrouded in mystery…until now. Emmy®-winning filmmaker and journalist Steven Leckart, in his very first podcast, takes you behind the velvet curtain to reveal shocking moments, surprising details, and hidden truths about two men who were lionized by millions of fans, lampooned by the media, criticized by animal welfare advocates, and endlessly scrutinized by the public.
1/12/202241 minutes, 28 seconds
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The one change that could cut school shootings in half

School shootings hit a record high last year, fueled by children with access to guns. The Washington Post has the story. The government is warning us to expect a frustrating tax season. Politico explains why, and how to deal with it. The reasons ‘Jeopardy’ players are racking up impressive win streaks lately might not be the ones you think. The Ringer looks into possible explanations. Want a spoon that’ll make your food taste better? The Wall Street Journal reports on some interesting new technologies that are in the works.
1/12/20228 minutes, 58 seconds
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What happens when everyone calls out sick at the same time

The Atlantic explains how the Omicron surge is hitting hospitals, which are already struggling to deal with cases from previous COVID waves. A big problem is there aren’t enough doctors and nurses. Bloomberg looks at how millions of American workers calling out sick during is hurting the U.S. economy. President Biden is making a voting-rights speech in Georgia today. NBC News explores what activists want to hear. He was held at Guantanamo Bay and never charged with a crime. He’s now finding life after detention is its own kind of prison. The Washington Post tells his story. Coach Kirby Smart steered Georgia to the college-football national championship by finally beating long-time rival Alabama, led by his own mentor. Sports Illustrated looks at how it happened.
1/11/20229 minutes, 39 seconds
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The unexpected impact of banning Trump from social media

One year after Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube banned Donald Trump, the Wall Street Journal reports on how he and they have benefited from his removal. Tennis star Novak Djokovic won his fight to stay in Australia to defend his Australian Open title, despite not being vaccinated against COVID. Reuters has the story. Fifteen people died at the Rikers Island jail complex last year. New York Magazine tells their stories. After 76 years, an American World War II soldier’s letter was finally delivered. CBS News brings us his widow’s reaction.
1/10/20227 minutes, 40 seconds
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In Conversation: Feeling burned out? Here’s how to rethink work.

How’s your relationship to your job? Does it feel healthy? Sustainable? For a lot of people, it got worse during the pandemic. One survey in 2021 found that more than a third of the men and nearly half of the women feel burned out. So what’s going wrong here? Apple News Today host Shumita Basu speaks with Anne Helen Petersen about her new book, Out of Office: The Big Problem and Bigger Promise of Working From Home, coauthored with Charlie Warzel. It’s all about how we can adjust the role our jobs play in our lives and focus more time and energy on the things we care about the most.
1/8/202224 minutes, 40 seconds
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We understand Omicron better now. Here’s what to know.

We know a lot more about the Omicron COVID variant than we did. NPR has the latest information on its symptoms and severity. And National Geographic has answers to nine big questions about it. CNN breaks down what’s happening in Kazakhstan and why it matters for the rest of the world. The Washington Post reports on new research showing climate disasters are affecting more Americans than many thought. Bloomberg covers a new study showing the 10 worst climate disasters caused $170 billion in global damage last year. There are tons of new TV shows coming out, and you won’t have time to watch them all. Vulture shares what its experts are most looking forward to.
1/7/20229 minutes, 21 seconds
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Hear why January 6 was just the beginning

One year after the Capitol attack, journalism on what happened and the enduring impact on American democracy from Vox, the Washington Post, the New Yorker, Politico, and the Wall Street Journal. Many people in the U.S. can’t access dentists, because they don’t have the money or the right insurance. The New Yorker has the story of a nonprofit that’s doing something about it. NBA stars who test positive for COVID have to stay off the court for a period. The Wall Street Journal explains how that’s giving golden opportunities to some minor-league players.
1/6/202212 minutes, 32 seconds
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Why Chicago’s COVID school-safety fight matters nationwide

Chicago public schools are closed today as teachers and administrators fight over whether learning should be remote. CNN and the Chicago Tribune report on a debate with national implications. Sentencing for people who stormed the Capitol a year ago has been inconsistent. BuzzFeed News crunches the data to discover how judges are grappling in real time with what the consequences should be. NBC News asks top forecasters with skin in the game what the economy could have in store over the year ahead. Engaged couples are often surprised to discover that many of the best wedding hashtags are taken. The Wall Street Journal reports on how some are even paying consultants for unique ideas.
1/5/20227 minutes, 58 seconds
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Startup star to criminal: The downfall of Elizabeth Holmes

Elizabeth Holmes was found guilty on four of 11 charges in her fraud trial. The Wall Street Journal reports on the downfall of a startup founder who claimed to revolutionize the blood-testing industry. Capitol Police officers were attacked and beaten by insurrectionists. The Washington Post details how the force is trying to recover and do its job amid low morale and a wave of resignations. A Wall Street Journal tech columnist recommends you activate this iPhone feature before you die. There’s snow on the ground in parts of America. Is it safe to eat? NPR checks with scientists. Short answer: Yes, but think about a few things first.
1/4/20229 minutes, 10 seconds
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Why 2022 might not be defined by the pandemic

COVID isn’t gone, but 2022 may be the first year since its arrival that isn’t defined by the pandemic. The Washington Post looks at what else could define the next 12 months. As we near the anniversary of the Capitol attack, Politico reports on how the January 6 committee is getting new information about what happened. A new law aims to end costly surprise medical bills. CNBC explains how it could affect you. With supply-chain issues pushing chicken prices way up, restaurants are serving up more chicken thighs, which are cheaper than breasts. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
1/3/20229 minutes, 8 seconds
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Good-news stories you may have missed in 2021

Wally Funk tried for decades to become an astronaut, at a time before NASA allowed women into orbit. This year she finally flew to space at age 82. The Atlantic shares her remarkable story. Two women broke barriers in football in 2021. Sports Illustrated has what you should know about Sarah Thomas, the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl. And NPR introduces Maia Chaka, the first Black woman to officiate an NFL game. It started with a few kids biking to school together for safety. It turned into a mass movement that touched hearts around the world, NPR reports. Two fierce rivals were neck-and-neck for Olympic gold. Sports Illustrated shows what happened next: Instead of going on to a tie-breaking round, they made the surprising decision to share victory. Zaila Avant-garde captured the nation’s attention as the first African American winner of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. But Variety found there was much more to her. In a year with its share of dark times, goofy moments on social media helped give us all a lift. Wall Street Journal columnist Jason Gay lists some favorites. Apple News Spotlight editors put together a special collection of the best good-news stories of the year.
12/23/20219 minutes, 5 seconds
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How the pandemic is killing non-COVID patients

A primary-care doctor told the Wall Street Journal she’s seen more than three times as many deaths among her patients this year as in 2020. None were from COVID. NPR examines Joe Manchin’s concerns about the climate spending in Build Back Better. And the New Yorker looks at how West Virginians feel about the senator’s latest moves. The Wall Street Journal’s Middle Seat columnist reflects on how air travel has changed in the last two decades. Mostly, it’s gotten worse. Wired reports on a new study showing lemurs have rhythm when they sing, and explains how it could help us solve a longstanding mystery about humans and music.
12/22/20219 minutes, 34 seconds
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What to know now that Omicron is dominant in the U.S.

Omicron is now the dominant variant of coronavirus in the U.S. CNN reports on what doctors and governments are warning us about. A Wall Street Journal investigation finds NYU is top-ranked — in loans that alumni and parents struggle to repay. When it comes to confirming federal judges, President Biden is on pace with Ronald Reagan’s record. The Washington Post explains why it could get harder from here. Finally, a millipede that lives up to its name, and then some. National Geographic looks at the discovery of the first millipede species with more than a thousand legs.
12/21/20217 minutes, 57 seconds
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What’s next for Biden’s agenda after Manchin’s “no”

The Atlantic explores what Joe Manchin’s ”no” on the giant spending bill means for Biden’s economic agenda. Democrats in Georgia helped flip the U.S. Senate and turn the state blue. Politico reports on how Republican state lawmakers are trying to dilute those gains. The Omicron coronavirus variant is spreading. The Wall Street Journal explains how to decide whether to change your holiday travel plans because of COVID. A Pulitzer Prize–winning science reporter canceled his 40th birthday party because of the Omicron variant. He writes in the Atlantic about how he came to the decision. Electric cars are expected to be a part of reducing global carbon emissions. But mining the nickel needed for their batteries can itself be very environmentally damaging. NBC News has the story. A Deadspin writer explains why he’s outraged that the New York Giants’ Fan Appreciation Day gift was a medium-sized fountain drink.
12/20/202110 minutes, 52 seconds
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In Conversation: Did Marilyn Manson hide his abuse of women in plain sight?

In the past year, more than a dozen women have accused Marilyn Manson — whose real name is Brian Warner — of psychological or sexual abuse. Four women have filed civil lawsuits. Warner has denied all of the allegations. For Rolling Stone, Jason Newman and Kory Grow spent nine months reporting on these claims and talked with several of the women who have come forward. They spoke with Apple News Today host Duarte Geraldino about their investigation.
12/18/202124 minutes, 46 seconds
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Biden’s big spending bill is still stuck. Here’s why.

The Washington Post explains why it’s looking unlikely that Democrats will pass the president’s nearly $2 trillion spending package ahead of the holidays. Waves of star athletes are testing positive for the coronavirus, disrupting games. ESPN reports on new COVID protocols being introduced by the NFL and NBA. Claudette Colvin was arrested in 1955 for refusing to give up her bus seat for a white person — nine months before Rosa Parks’s act of defiance. Nearly 70 years later, Colvin’s record has finally been cleared. She talks to CBS News. Are brain surgeons and rocket scientists smarter than the rest of us? Not necessarily, according to a new study. The Guardian has the story.
12/17/20218 minutes, 3 seconds
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Special Episode: Looking back on the making of 'Hooked'

The Apple Original podcast Hooked tells the story of Tony Hathaway. He went from working as a design engineer at the aerospace company Boeing to robbing 30 banks in a single year after becoming addicted to opioids.   In November, Shumita Basu spoke with Hooked host Josh Dean about the podcast when it was just getting started. Now that the final episode has aired, Basu and Dean are joined by Hathaway to reflect on the series as it comes to an end.
12/16/202120 minutes, 19 seconds
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Kamala Harris takes stock of a historic, turbulent year

One year into her history-making role, Vice President Kamala Harris reacts to recent controversies and looks ahead to 2022, in an extensive interview with the San Francisco Chronicle. Vox looks at the good and bad news about the Omicron coronavirus variant so far. Pandemic student-debt relief is set to end in a few weeks. Business Insider reports on how some Democrats say the Biden administration should do more to help. It also speaks to a woman with $163,000 in student debt who says she feels “betrayed” by the president. The Washington Post has the story of the woman who traded a bobby pin up to a house in 28 steps — and documented the process on TikTok.
12/16/20219 minutes, 26 seconds
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Stories of hope and resilience after the deadly tornadoes

A tornado destroyed a Kentucky nursing home. USA Today has the story of how all its residents survived. Bloomberg looks at the major risks to the economy over the next year. Many people named Alexa say Amazon’s voice assistant with the same name is changing the way people interact with them for the worse. Some are fighting back. The Washington Post talks to dozens of real-life Alexas. Steph Curry broke the NBA’s 3-point record. Along the way, he has transformed how basketball is played. ESPN reports on the history-making moment.
12/15/20218 minutes, 55 seconds
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Why is the U.S. defense bill so large? No one seems to know.

Slate columnist Fred Kaplan, a longtime observer of military spending, asks whether anyone actually looked at the $778 billion U.S. defense budget before passing it. The January 6 panel recommended holding Trump’s former chief of staff in contempt, on a day of big revelations about the Capitol attack. CNBC has the key details. California plans to use a measure modeled on Texas’s controversial anti-abortion law to try to get guns off the streets. Vox explains. When it comes to gift giving, is it really the thought that counts? Not quite, psychologists tell the Washington Post. In the Players’ Tribune, WNBA star A’ja Wilson shares a powerful message for young Black women.
12/14/20217 minutes, 47 seconds
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What we know about climate change and deadly tornadoes

Scientists are examining the role climate change may have played in the twisters that killed dozens of people in recent days. PBS NewsHour looks at what’s known and what’s not yet clear. Many parents of school shooters ignore glaring warning signs. The Washington Post has the story of one grandmother who didn’t. NASA is sending its new telescope to a very special parking spot a million miles away. The Atlantic explains why. A guy threw half a billion dollars in bitcoin in the garbage. The New Yorker speaks to him about his unusual quest to get it back.
12/13/20218 minutes, 21 seconds
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In Conversation: Inside the secret prisons where migrants are tortured and beaten

For the New Yorker, journalist Ian Urbina traveled to Libya to report on an EU-funded shadow immigration system that holds migrants in brutal detention centers. While reporting this story, Urbina was kidnapped, beaten, and detained himself. Now safely back home, he spoke with Apple News Today host Shumita Basu about how this shadow system works and the horrific conditions inside the detention centers.
12/11/202125 minutes, 27 seconds
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Why the Starbucks union vote is such a big deal

The Wall Street Journal reports on how the Starbucks union vote is about much more than Starbucks. BBC News is covering a deadly truck crash in Mexico that killed dozens of migrants from Central America trying to get into the U.S. Bloomberg explains how President Biden’s massive spending bill would increase the credits available to electric-car buyers. And the Washington Post looks at how Black and Hispanic communities worry they’re being left behind in the shift to electric vehicles because many of their neighborhoods have few charging stations. Vice has the story of how New Zealand’s government is planning to ban the sale of cigarettes to all future generations.
12/10/20217 minutes, 54 seconds
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Why Biden’s spending plan may not solve the housing crisis

There’s a lot of money in Biden’s spending plan targeted at the affordable-housing crisis. Vox looks at why it may not do much about skyrocketing real-estate prices. The Senate and White House are backing arms sales to Saudi Arabia. Critics say this could worsen the deadly conflict in Yemen. Reuters has the story. Dozens of previously unrecognized U.S. soldiers will receive Purple Hearts after being injured in an attack in Iraq nearly two years ago. A CBS News investigation helped them finally get their awards. Cybercriminals can ramp up activity during the busy holiday season. The Wall Street Journal explains how to avoid the latest scams online.
12/9/20217 minutes, 22 seconds
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Was Elizabeth Holmes’s testimony enough to save her?

The case of Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes may turn on her testimony. The Wall Street Journal looks at the moments that might sway jurors. Forbes explores how Biden’s massive spending plan would change tax policy. Chalkbeat reports on how the enhanced child tax credit has done a lot for families, but says Congress may not keep it. The recent Michigan killings are reigniting a debate over school safety. The Intercept has the story. Ballet companies are reinventing The Nutcracker. CBS New York reports on how Brooklyn Ballet is adding in new dance styles. And BBC covers how the Scottish Ballet is making subtle changes in a bid to erase old stereotypes.
12/8/20219 minutes, 35 seconds
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Here’s what happens if Biden’s immigration overhaul passes

The Build Back Better bill touches many areas. Yahoo News explains how it would change the American immigration system. In a crucial week for President Biden’s foreign policy, CNN looks at why the stakes are high for his call with Putin today. And Time explains why he decided on a diplomatic boycott of China's Winter Olympics. A doctor shortage has made abortion services difficult to access for many people in the U.S., clinics say. The Washington Post has the story of one physician who commutes 800 miles to provide them. Is your cat a psychopath? Probably, researchers say. Vice has the story.
12/7/20218 minutes, 42 seconds
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How Biden’s spending plan could transform U.S. health care

The Washington Post looks at how the roughly $2 trillion spending bill Congress is debating would overhaul U.S. health care. A jail term is the latest twist in the complicated story of Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace Prize winner who was later ousted as leader of Myanmar. BBC News reports. The pandemic turned Americans into super savers. The Wall Street Journal explains what to consider if you’ve got extra cash saved up. The world’s first living robots can now reproduce, in a way unlike any known animal or plant. Don’t be afraid, scientists tell CNN.
12/6/20218 minutes, 26 seconds
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In Conversation: America’s child-care system is broken. Can we fix it?

The pandemic exposed something every working parent in the U.S. already knew: This country’s child-care system is broken. Even after more than $50 billion in COVID-relief funding, the industry is still in crisis. Bloomberg Businessweek reporter Claire Suddath talks with Apple News Today host Duarte Geraldino about the fundamental issues that exist in the U.S. child-care system today, some possible fixes, and how we got here.
12/4/202120 minutes, 24 seconds
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Why Delta is still dangerous as Omicron variant spreads

The Omicron variant of the coronavirus is getting lots of attention, but many hospitals are still struggling to deal with the effects of Delta. The Washington Post has the story. Alabama’s prisons are extremely dangerous and troubled. Politico reports on how the facilities are so unsafe that the federal government may take control. This week’s In Conversation is with the Bloomberg Businessweek reporter who looked into how child care became the most broken business in America. NPR has the story of how a Business Insider report that MLB used two different kinds of balls is throwing a wrench into baseball’s bitter labor dispute.
12/3/20219 minutes, 3 seconds
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The untold story of Mississippi’s sole abortion clinic

The story of how Mississippi ended up with only one abortion clinic matters across America, regardless of how the Supreme Court rules in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. The Washington Post visited the state to see what happened. CNN explains why the suspected Michigan school shooter has been charged with terrorism. A new California law aims to get people faster access to therapists. Kaiser Health News reports on concerns about how much it will actually help. A typo led some high school kids to a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Tom Brady and his Super Bowl champion teammates. NBC has the story.
12/2/20219 minutes, 13 seconds
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How activists are preparing for a post–Roe v. Wade America

As the Supreme Court hears a major abortion case, Politico looks at how activists on both sides of the issue are already planning for a world where Roe v. Wade is overturned. New York City has introduced America’s first government-run drug-injection sites, in a new effort to reduce opioid-overdose deaths. NPR has the story. The Guardian reports on American librarians who say there’s a major rise in organized efforts to ban books in schools. The New Yorker explains why the battle over what kids read in class may not end anytime soon. Hiring a Santa Claus is a tough task this year, after COVID hit the Santa community hard. The Washington Post uncovers the lengths people are going to in order to find one.
12/1/20217 minutes, 58 seconds
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The brutal shadow system keeping migrants out of Europe

In an extensive investigation, the New Yorker takes a look inside the coastal patrols and brutal, secretive detention centers that Libyan forces use to keep migrants from Africa and the Middle East out of Europe. A little-known Supreme Court clerk quietly and single-handedly transformed American abortion law for decades. The Washington Post has the untold story of Roe v. Wade. The market for starting pitchers is on fire, even as Major League Baseball heads toward a lockout. The Wall Street Journal explains. At midnight, Barbados cut its last remaining ties to the British monarchy, removing Queen Elizabeth II as head of state. CNN has the story.
11/30/20219 minutes, 14 seconds
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What we know — and don’t — about the Omicron variant

There are lots of questions about the new Omicron variant of the coronavirus. The Atlantic breaks down what we know so far. And Fox News interviews National Institutes of Health director Dr. Francis Collins. Opening arguments begin today in the sex-trafficking trial of Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. USA Today previews what it may reveal. A new book looks into how changes at Boeing may have led to the design flaws implicated in the 737 Max crashes, which killed hundreds of people. Bloomberg Businessweek has an exclusive excerpt. Canada’s maple-syrup cartel is tapping its reserves of the sweet topping amid supply issues and strong demand. The Washington Post has the story.
11/29/20218 minutes, 41 seconds
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Who gets to claim self-defense in fatal shootings?

Closing arguments have concluded in the trial of the three white men accused of killing Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old Black man who was out jogging. The Washington Post reports that many people across the U.S. are viewing the jury’s decision as a test of the movement for racial justice.   Teachers have experienced intense burnout during the pandemic. Unlike workers in many other industries, however, K–12 educators have not left their jobs in alarming numbers. FiveThirtyEight explores why.   With the TSA expecting the number of airline passengers traveling for Thanksgiving to reach pre-pandemic levels this year, USA Today has a guide for any mishaps that may arise along your route. And be warned: Not all Thanksgiving food can fly in your carry-on bag. Travel & Leisure lists what you can bring.   The Wall Street Journal looks at research showing that reconnecting with old friends can boost mood, self-esteem, and confidence.
11/23/20219 minutes, 58 seconds
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How a $2 trillion plan could transform the social safety net

House Democrats passed President Biden’s $2 trillion spending plan to revamp the country’s health-care, climate policy, education, and tax laws. The Washington Post breaks it down.   Vox reports that more than 140,000 kids have lost a caregiver during the pandemic. Experts worry that the loss, combined with interruptions to social support systems, will result in a generation of traumatized children.    The U.S. has millions more job openings than people looking for work. The CEO of the world’s biggest job portal tells Fortune why he thinks killing the résumé could help address the issue.    We’re bombarded by notifications all day long — and it’s likely making us much less productive. The Wall Street Journal offers tips on how to regain control.
11/22/20219 minutes, 40 seconds
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In Conversation: Jelani Cobb on the backlash to critical race theory

The New Yorker’s Jelani Cobb says conservatives weaponizing critical race theory aren’t acting in good faith. He speaks with Apple News Today host Shumita Basu about his recent piece for the New Yorker about the founder of the concept, Derrick Bell. Cobb says that Bell could have predicted today’s backlash and that real critical race theory can help us understand today’s debate over false depictions of this term.
11/20/202121 minutes, 48 seconds
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Why it’s time to check in on Europe’s unusual border crisis

The House has approved a bill containing around $1.9 trillion in social spending. The key part of President Biden’s agenda faces obstacles in the Senate. CNN reports. There are big new developments in the unusual immigration fight playing out in Europe. The Washington Post breaks down what’s important to understand. There are new concerns about the safety of Peng Shuai, a Chinese tennis star who accused a powerful leader of the Communist Party of sexual abuse then vanished. The Los Angeles Times looks at how women’s tennis is rallying to support her. And USA Today examines the very different responses to her disappearance from the Women's Tennis Association and the International Olympic Committee. Is your boss secretly watching your computer? The Los Angeles Times reports on how the increase in working from home has led to more companies using monitoring software to track employees. The birth of 10 Komodo dragons in a Texas zoo is a big win toward conserving the endangered species. The Washington Post spoke to people who helped make it possible.
11/19/20219 minutes, 11 seconds
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House votes largely on party lines to censure Paul Gosar

The House censured Rep. Paul Gosar after he posted an anime video depicting him killing Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The Washington Post has the story of the first vote of its kind in more than a decade. FiveThirtyEight reports on how the national shortage of school-bus drivers is hurting workers, students, and their families. Cryptocurrency fans are raising money to buy a rare copy of the U.S. Constitution, and it looks like they may pull it off. The Wall Street Journal got several organizers to reveal their names and speak on the record. The longest partial lunar eclipse in nearly 600 years is about to take place. Accuweather explains how to see it.
11/18/20218 minutes, 41 seconds
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Fears for U.S. medical system as health-care workers quit

Doctors and nurses are quitting at alarming rates, raising questions about the future of the U.S. medical system. The Atlantic tells their stories. If your Thanksgiving plans involve air travel, NPR warns, you can expect long security lines, canceled flights, and angry passengers. Ever wondered why the week has seven days? The New Yorker looks at a new book on how a fairly arbitrary system came to dominate our lives. Armadillos are being seen farther and farther north, possibly because of climate change. They’re doing damage as they expand, so a North Carolina community hired a hunter to deal with them. The Guardian joins him out in the field.
11/17/20218 minutes, 43 seconds
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What the jury must decide in the Rittenhouse trial

The New Yorker explains what jurors have to decide in the trial of Kyle Rittenhouse. Mugshots can stay online forever, embarrassing people for years. The Marshall Project looks at how some law-enforcement and media organizations are changing how they deal with them. Drunken-driving accidents kill about 10,000 people in the U.S. every year. Gizmodo reports that a little-known part of the recently passed infrastructure plan could lead to new monitoring tech in cars to prevent them from being started by impaired drivers. Jewish and Islamic authorities are figuring out how to deal with plant-based pork. Major certifiers have declined to give kosher or halal stamps of approval. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
11/16/20218 minutes, 27 seconds
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People with disabilities say flying is routinely dehumanizing

Amid rising tensions between the U.S. and China, presidents Biden and Xi are to gather for a virtual summit. The Wall Street Journal has the story. Wheelchairs broken in transit, airport escorts who don’t show up, children with autism being separated from their parents: Three years after Congress mandated that airlines and TSA improve flying for people with disabilities, passengers tell NPR the same mistakes continue to be made. Extreme weather is pushing farmers to experiment with regenerative agriculture. Bloomberg News details how farmers are testing out drought-resistant seeds and plants that can survive harsh weather patterns. A new study finds that hand gestures may be the key to learning a new language. Scientific American explains the research.
11/15/20219 minutes, 46 seconds
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In Conversation: Does blood hold the key to the fountain of youth?

People have been searching for a way to delay or even reverse the effects of old age for centuries — and new research shows that our own blood may be the key. Journalist Kat McGowan wrote for Popular Science about recent studies that suggest something in blood could undo the effects of aging. McGowan spoke with Apple News Today host Duarte Geraldino about these promising findings.
11/13/202113 minutes, 20 seconds
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Election workers feel threatened, scared, and ignored

A Reuters investigation into Trump supporters who threatened election workers finds that many of the harassers remain unrepentant, and that law enforcement often didn’t take this intimidation seriously. As part of the $1.2 trillion infrastructure package, Amtrak will receive $66 billion in new funding to replace trains and modernize the heavily trafficked Northeast corridor. The Washington Post explains how it’ll work. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Times reports that California officials are disappointed their state’s rail program will receive less.  The U.S. has been neglecting or closing public bathrooms for decades. After the pandemic hit, things got really bad, as some cities locked their few remaining facilities for sanitation reasons. Bloomberg has the story. Children who received their coronavirus vaccines describe the experience to the New Yorker.
11/12/20219 minutes, 38 seconds
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How police officers punish their own

There was emotion and tension in the courtroom as Kyle Rittenhouse testified at his homicide trial in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The Chicago Tribune has the story.  Victims of Flint’s water crisis have been awarded a $626 million settlement, one of the largest in Michigan’s history. The Washington Post reports. Police culture incentivizes cops to keep quiet about bad behavior by their colleagues. A USA Today investigation finds that officers who speak up often face retaliation from inside the force. The Wall Street Journal explains why the New York Mets are struggling to find a general manager.Victims of Flint, Michigan’s water crisis have been awarded a major settlement. The Washington Post reports that a judge has approved more than $600 million, one of the largest in the state’s history. Police culture incentivizes cops to keep quiet about bad behavior by their colleagues. A USA Today investigation finds that officers who speak up often face retaliation from inside the force. The Wall Street Journal explains why the New York Mets are struggling to find a general manager.
11/11/202110 minutes, 40 seconds
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Starbucks pushes back against efforts to unionize

Today, the National Labor Relations Board will mail union ballots to Starbucks employees at three locations in New York. Bloomberg explains that it could result in the first Starbucks union in the U.S. Leaked recordings from a 1999 NRA conference call following the mass shooting at Columbine High School show the organization once considered taking a sympathetic approach to these kinds of tragedies. NPR has the story. During the pandemic, teachers learned that many students are juggling outsize familial responsibilities in addition to homework. The Los Angeles Times found that educators are reevaluating how to grade assignments. Today, the National Labor Relations Board will mail union ballots to Starbucks employees at three locations in New York. Bloomberg explains how it could result in the first Starbucks union in the U.S. Leaked recordings from a 1999 NRA conference call following the mass shooting at Columbine High School show the organization once considered taking a sympathetic approach to this kind of tragedy. NPR has the story. During the pandemic, teachers learned that many students are juggling outsize familial responsibilities in addition to homework. The Los Angeles Times describes how educators are reevaluating the ways they grade assignments. For the first time since 1982, the NBA has swapped out Spalding basketballs for Wilson ones. CBS Sports reports that shooting is down as players struggle to adjust.
11/10/202110 minutes, 24 seconds
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The clean-water crisis that huge new spending may not fix

Congress has approved major funding to fix aging water infrastructure. But frustrated people in Jackson, Mississippi, are skeptical their dilapidated systems will finally get the investment they need. The Washington Post tells their stories. U.S. hospitals are running seriously short of nurses, just ahead of flu season and a potential COVID surge driven by cold weather. Vox explains why. The Wall Street Journal reports on how the ultrarich could drive $1.6 billion in art sales in the next two weeks. The retirement-community sport of pickleball is winning celebrity followers including Leonardo DiCaprio, Jamie Foxx, and the Kardashians. Vanity Fair looks at what’s happening.
11/9/20218 minutes, 32 seconds
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Experts fear Astroworld won’t be the last deadly concert

The deadly crowd surge at the Astroworld Festival was just the latest fatal concert incident. Safety experts tell the Washington Post it won’t be the last. Without guaranteed paid federal bereavement leave, American workplaces aren’t prepared for the level of loss brought on by the pandemic, the Atlantic argues. Professional athletes are using new technology to compete for longer than ever before. Sports Illustrated looks at how their success may have lessons on aging for the rest of us. There’s a possible new clue in the case of sightings of people flying jetpacks, reported by pilots in California. The Miami Herald lays out a new theory: What the pilots saw wasn’t human.
11/8/20217 minutes, 32 seconds
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In Conversation: How an opioid addiction drove one engineer to rob banks

When Tony Hathaway was arrested outside of a KeyBank in Seattle, police and the FBI had been looking for him for months. Hathaway had robbed 30 banks in a single year. Before he became a notorious bank robber, Hathaway was a top design engineer at Boeing; he fit the profile of a loving family man, he made six figures, and flew around the world in business class. That all unraveled when he was prescribed OxyContin for a back injury and developed an addiction to opioids.   Journalist Josh Dean wrote an article for Bloomberg Businessweek about Hathaway in 2019. His reporting is the basis of a new podcast series from Apple TV+, called Hooked. Apple News Today host Shumita Basu spoke with Dean about Hathaway’s story.
11/6/202119 minutes, 37 seconds
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"Hooked" episode 1: The Fatal Funnel

Apple News Today: In Conversation is bringing you a special episode — the first installment of Hooked, a new podcast series from Apple TV+.   When Tony Hathaway was arrested outside of a KeyBank in Seattle, police and the FBI had been looking for him for months. Hathaway had robbed 30 banks in a single year. Before he became a notorious bank robber, Hathaway was a top design engineer at Boeing; he fit the profile of a loving family man, he made six figures, and flew around the world in business class. That all unraveled when he was prescribed OxyContin for a back injury and developed an addiction to opioids.   Journalist Josh Dean wrote an article for Bloomberg Businessweek about Hathaway in 2019. His reporting is the basis of Hooked. Host Shumita Basu spoke with Dean about Hathaway’s story on Apple News Today: In Conversation.
11/6/202141 minutes, 44 seconds
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Could your neighborhood be a cancer hot spot?

The EPA allows polluters to turn neighborhoods into “sacrifice zones” where residents breathe high levels of carcinogens. ProPublica reveals where these places are, in a first-of-its-kind data analysis. The trial of three white men accused of killing Black Georgia jogger Ahmaud Arbery will have a nearly all-white jury. The Washington Post breaks down how that happened. NPR looks at the citizen’s arrest law at the heart of the case. Snowbirds are getting younger during the pandemic, as Money Magazine explains. Now that many people are more able to work from home, a much younger demographic is buying second homes in more moderate climates. Turning back your clocks shouldn’t be too hard this weekend. But that’s not the case for the British royal family's staff. Travel + Leisure looks at the special challenge of setting hundreds of clocks manually.
11/5/20218 minutes, 32 seconds
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Island nations, at risk of disappearing, urge climate action

Rising sea levels are an existential threat to island nations. CNBC looks at how their leaders are stepping up the fight to get big countries to do more about climate change. Axios reports on how New York taxi drivers scored a victory after a two-week hunger strike, earning relief from debt that has brought many of them close to financial ruin. An investigation from the Marshall Project found that police hurt thousands of teenagers every year, including a striking number of Black girls. The Wall Street Journal has the story of a marathoner aiming to finish her sixth marathon in six weeks. She’s running on two rebuilt knees.
11/4/20217 minutes, 48 seconds
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Here’s what the GOP’s Virginia win could mean nationally

Politicians across America are studying Tuesday’s races for clues on how to win in next year’s midterms. Politico has key takeaways. And the Washington Post looks at how Republican Glenn Youngkin won the Virginia governor’s race in part by apparently pulling off a balancing act with Donald Trump that turned out both Trump supporters and moderate voters. Today the Supreme Court reviews a major Second Amendment case. SCOTUSblog previews what could be the biggest gun ruling in years. World leaders are announcing “net-zero” climate targets. Vox explains how that might be misleading when it comes to understanding progress on reducing carbon emissions. The Atlanta Braves crushed the Houston Astros in Game 6 of the World Series, taking home the title for the first time since 1995. USA Today has a recap.
11/3/20217 minutes, 58 seconds
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The people who clean up after climate disasters

Police reform is on the ballot today in Minneapolis, where George Floyd’s murder ignited a new debate over the role of law enforcement. FiveThirtyEight breaks down what voters are deciding. And the Washington Post looks at how many Democratic mayoral candidates have moved from talking about reducing or reallocating police budgets to focusing on “law and order.” With natural disasters becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, cleaning up after floods, wildfires, and hurricanes is a multibillion-dollar business. The New Yorker tells the stories of some of the often-exploited workers who do that dirty work. Heterosexual married couples in the U.S. still almost always give their kids the father’s surname. The Atlantic examines why. London cab drivers are famed for memorizing the city’s complicated streets. The Washington Post reports on new research that is scanning their brains for clues that may lead to better understanding of Alzheimer’s disease.
11/2/20217 minutes, 53 seconds
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What to know as Supreme Court considers Texas abortion ban

Today the Supreme Court hears cases challenging the new Texas law that prohibits almost all abortions. SCOTUSblog explains what to watch. The CDC is expected to recommend Pfizer’s COVID vaccine for children aged 5 to 11. But it’s a different dose than adults get, so rolling it out will require new steps. NPR has details. Concierge medicine promises better access to doctors for patients who pay a fee. Critics say it makes primary care harder to get for those who can’t pay. Scientific American takes a look. Like to sneak in a quick snooze during your commute to work? The Washington Post looks at a new bus service that takes it to the next level: a five-hour route to nowhere, expressly designed for napping.
11/1/20217 minutes, 46 seconds
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In Conversation: Kids were jailed for a crime that doesn’t exist. How could that happen?

Nashville Public Radio’s Meribah Knight speaks with Shumita Basu about her reporting for ProPublica on the juvenile-justice system in Rutherford County, Tennessee. Knight reveals a disturbing pattern in which hundreds of kids — some as young as 7 years old — were being locked up every year. In many of these cases, the adults responsible acted illegally and faced no consequences. 
10/30/202126 minutes, 48 seconds
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How China and the U.S. are falling short on climate action

Ahead of the global environmental summit in Scotland, National Geographic looks at numbers showing that many of the world’s largest polluters aren’t on track to meet existing targets on cutting carbon emissions. NBC News reports on the impact of China, the largest source of greenhouse gases. A ProPublica investigation reveals how, in one Tennessee county, young Black children were jailed for a crime that doesn’t exist. The adults in charge faced few consequences. The trial of Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes is around its halfway point. The Wall Street Journal reports on where things stand. The Washington Post explores how the popularity of a 12-foot-tall skeleton that retails for $300 has triggered something of a Halloween arms race among lovers of the bony lawn decorations.
10/29/202110 minutes, 23 seconds
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Paid leave appears dead in Congress. Here’s what that means.

CNN reports on President Biden’s outreach to Democrats on Capitol Hill, as he works to push his economic and climate agenda forward. In the Atlantic, three professors argue that a lot of people got things wrong about what census data says about the white population of America. After striking it rich through vaccination lotteries, some lucky winners tell USA Today they have mixed feelings about cashing in. Several say they’re donating money to charity. Mel Magazine introduces us to a California man who found an unusual path to financial security: seven years of meals at Six Flags Magic Mountain, scored with an annual pass to the park.
10/28/20219 minutes, 32 seconds
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Democrats want billionaires to pay up in new tax plan

Democrats have tax proposals to raise money for big new spending. Bloomberg explains how one plan goes after billionaires. Thousands of American workers are on strike for better pay and working conditions. Time reports on how some are not just fighting their employers, but also their unions. During the pandemic, many millennial women in America decided to get more involved in investing. The Washington Post tells some of their stories. The Wall Street Journal looks at a $5 million lawsuit questioning whether there are enough strawberries in strawberry Pop-Tarts, claiming they actually contain more apples and pears.
10/27/20217 minutes, 55 seconds
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Here’s what to watch in next week’s governor’s races

Next week’s governor’s races in Virginia and New Jersey will be watched for national implications. Vox explains what to look out for, and why we should be careful not to read too much into the contests. A review of a migrant’s death by suicide raises questions about the treatment of people in American detention facilities. The Intercept has been following the story. NPR reports on why what’s happening in Sudan matters to the U.S. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, you might enjoy the World Series antics of Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale. The New York Post has details of his multimillion-dollar bet on the Houston Astros, his hometown team. And the Houston Chronicle covers how he’s buying tickets for dozens of nuns.
10/26/20218 minutes, 24 seconds
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What’s driving the extreme weather on the West Coast

USA Today reports on the furious storm unleashed from a “bomb cyclone” slamming the West Coast, bringing fierce winds and hazardous flooding. NBC Los Angeles explains how an “atmospheric river” is also drenching California and the Pacific Northwest with rain. Reuters reports that top political leaders in Sudan have been detained in an apparent coup. A leaked U.S. government report documents how people with medical conditions and disabilities were forced into the Trump administration’s “Remain in Mexico” program. BuzzFeed News has the story. The Guardian reports on an analysis that finds only 14% of the COVID-vaccine doses promised to the poorest nations by wealthy ones have been delivered. The Washington Post looks into Pfizer’s contracts with countries and the difficulty of donating vaccines abroad. As Halloween approaches, Vox explains how concerns about ghosts can reduce a property’s value.
10/25/20218 minutes, 19 seconds
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In Conversation: Think the stock market is rigged? You may be right.

Data shows high-level execs often get unusually good returns trading their own companies’ stocks. But regulators say insider trading is hard to prove under current law. For Bloomberg Businessweek, Liam Vaughan explains why insider trading is more widespread than you might think — and why some experts argue the system is fundamentally unfair.
10/23/202115 minutes, 27 seconds
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Why the world is watching Congress’s climate-change moves

World powers are watching to see if the U.S. can pull off major action on climate change ahead of a global summit, Time reports. Countless murders were covered up during the Jim Crow era. Mother Jones looks at a program that aims to help victims’ families and set records straight. A cinematographer is dead and a director is injured, shot by a prop gun fired by Alec Baldwin in what the actor’s spokesperson called an accident. ABC News has the story. Vienna’s tourism board is posting images of explicit works from the city’s art museums on OnlyFans. The Washington Post explains the thinking behind the unusual marketing campaign, devised after some of the museums ran into problems posting art containing nudity to social media.
10/22/20218 minutes, 39 seconds
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Democrats ramp up unusual legal fight with Steve Bannon

Trump ally Steve Bannon has defied a subpoena from the House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol insurrection. Democrats are set to hold him in contempt. Politico explains why things will get complicated from here. A new report lays bare the severe human toll of climate change, detailing how it is killing people and making them sicker. CNN has the key takeaways. Scammers on social media and dating sites swindled Americans out of a record $304 million as more people searched for love online during the pandemic. The Washington Post warns daters what to watch for. We now know who owns the sole copy of the Wu-Tang Clan album that recently sold for $4 million. Rolling Stone has the latest twist in the bizarre story.
10/21/20218 minutes, 23 seconds
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The problem of cops who won’t get vaccinated

Police officers are dying of COVID at alarming rates, but some are pushing back hard against getting vaccinated. USA Today looks at how communities around the country are dealing with the problem. The kidnapping of 16 Americans and a Canadian in Haiti highlights the country’s armed-gang problem. The Miami Herald reports. A breakthrough surgery that successfully attached a pig’s organ to a human offers live-saving hope to people on transplant waiting lists. USA Today takes us inside an operation that was years in the making. Authorities have been struggling to save dogs trapped near a volcano in Spain’s Canary |slands. CNN explains how rescuers are preparing to try a new idea: using a drone to scoop the dogs up and fly them out.
10/20/20216 minutes, 50 seconds
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Why time may be running out for Biden’s climate plan

President Biden’s climate agenda seems to be in trouble, the Guardian reports. The Atlantic says he cannot declare victory on climate without one of two key policies, and the chances of passing either are getting slimmer. A Brooklyn apartment building was a peaceful home until residents started dying in brutal, mysterious ways. New York Magazine has the story. The Washington Post goes inside a new recruiting program for cybersecurity jobs that takes inspiration from the world of professional video gaming. Colombia is putting its hippos on birth control. CNN explains the effort to manage the invasive species, which was originally brought to the country by notorious drug trafficker Pablo Escobar.
10/19/20217 minutes, 41 seconds
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Murder trial begins in the killing of jogger Ahmaud Arbery

Ahmaud Arbery, a Black man, was shot and killed while jogging in 2020. As the murder trial begins, NPR reports from the Georgia community where his killing happened. Colin Powell, America’s first Black secretary of state, who shaped American foreign policy in recent decades, has died from complications from Covid-19, CNN reports. He was 84. Reuters has a trove of internal documents revealing how Amazon created knockoff goods and manipulated search results to boost its own product lines in India. Democrats in Congress are working to pass an ambitious spending plan to further their agenda. Politico explains why the next few days are so important. The appearance of an Arctic walrus on European shores was fun at first. But scientists needed to convince him to head home, for his own sake and to stop the damage he’s been doing to boats. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
10/18/20218 minutes, 3 seconds
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In Conversation: Delivery workers feel exploited. They’re fighting back.

Delivery workers are a vital part of New York City’s infrastructure, so much so that during the pandemic, they were hailed as heroes. But this class of workers is also abused, underpaid, exploited, and largely ignored. Now they’re fighting for protections and better working conditions — and making some headway. Investigations editor Josh Dzieza spoke with more than 20 delivery workers for this story, published by the Verge and New York Magazine.   Thanks to Danilo Parra, New York Magazine, the Verge, and Vox Media for providing audio content for this episode. You can find their full video, “The Invisible 65,000,” here.
10/16/202120 minutes, 8 seconds
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What’s holding up federal aid to renters?

Congress approved $47 billion to pay back rent and prevent evictions. NPR explains why so little of that money has made it to the millions of people who need it. The controversy over jokes about transgender people in Dave Chappelle’s Netflix special is reaching a critical point. Bloomberg lays out some key facts. Supply-chain issues are still causing problems for the automobile industry. Car and Driver reveals how the car shortage is so bad that dealers are putting unfinished vehicles on the lot just to fill space. A shredded Banksy painting sold for $25.4 million, a record. Quartz reports on how a surprise move by the mysterious artist to destroy the work wound up making it far more valuable.
10/15/20217 minutes, 22 seconds
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The latest moves in the Capitol-attack investigation

The House committee probing the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol subpoenaed a former Justice Department official described as having been at the center of then-president Donald Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. Bloomberg has details. An investigation from the Intercept found that a network of right-wing health-care providers made millions selling bogus COVID treatments. America’s national parks are drawing huge crowds, and the National Park Service is making changes to balance access and preservation. The Deseret News reports from Arches National Park in Utah. Only 33 living people have been the son or daughter of a president. People talked to some about the quirks and perks.
10/14/20216 minutes, 42 seconds
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Why so many American workers are on strike right now

Supply-chain issues and labor shortages mean companies are fighting for workers. Time reports on how growing numbers of employees are testing their power, by striking to demand better pay and benefits. And the Washington Post looks at the battle lines in the dispute between cereal-plant workers and Kellogg’s. Many therapists don’t take insurance. The ones who do are often booked. The Wall Street Journal shows you why, and what you can do about it. There’s a dark side to free return policies. The Atlantic details how when you send back something you bought, there’s a good chance it’s going in the trash. Major League Baseball games are getting longer and more boring. Bloomberg Businessweek goes behind the scenes of experiments the league is quietly running to help speed up games and add more drama.
10/13/20218 minutes, 1 second
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NFL coach out after revelations of offensive emails

Jon Gruden is stepping down as Las Vegas Raiders coach following revelations of racist, antigay, and misogynistic emails. The Wall Street Journal has more. An interpreter who helped rescue Joe Biden in 2008 had trouble getting out of Afghanistan with his family. The Wall Street Journal has the exclusive story of their narrow escape. After decades of success at increasing police diversity, forces across America are having trouble hiring young Black citizens. The Atlantic explains why. Matt Amodio finally lost on ‘Jeopardy,’ bringing to a close his 38-game run on the show, Variety reports.
10/12/20217 minutes, 31 seconds
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Why U.S. child care is in crisis and what to do about it

Day-care providers are struggling with a worker shortage while federal relief has been slow to help. USA Today looks at what’s happening, as well as possible solutions. Many of the smugglers who bring migrants into the U.S. are Mexican teenagers. One of them tells his story to the Washington Post. CNN reports on a Maryland husband and wife accused of attempting to sell U.S. nuclear secrets to another country in exchange for cryptocurrency.After nearly 80 years of marriage without a wedding photo due to World War II, a couple finally has one. NBC News shows how hospice workers decided to fix things.
10/11/20217 minutes, 17 seconds
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In Conversation: Is bipartisanship dead?

For the past few decades, it seems like Congress has been stuck in a perpetual state of gridlock. Lawmakers may say they want to work together, but when push comes to shove, the party that’s in the majority often ends up going it alone. For FiveThirtyEight, Lee Drutman breaks down why bipartisanship in Congress is dying — and what that means for democracy. You can read Drutman’s article in FiveThirtyEight now on Apple News. 
10/9/202118 minutes, 34 seconds
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Journalists share Nobel Peace Prize for press-freedom fight

The Nobel Peace Prize went to journalists Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov for their work fighting for press freedom under dangerous circumstances. BBC News has more. Divorced parents are going to court over whether their kids should be vaccinated against COVID. The Washington Post has the story. The Wall Street Journal explains how Trump’s trade war and the pandemic have driven cotton prices to sky-high levels.Bloomberg reports on how a cameo in a James Bond film can increase a car’s value by 1,000 percent.
10/8/20216 minutes, 25 seconds
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A new twist in the fight over the debt ceiling

A judge has the controversial Texas abortion ban on hold. The Texas Tribune explains why it’s not clear the new ruling will actually increase access to the procedure. Senators seem to have become more optimistic about a deal to prevent the U.S. defaulting on its debt. The Washington Post reports on the talks. The Wall Street Journal has the story of a lawsuit that says computer outages from a cyberattack led hospital staff to miss troubling signs, resulting in a baby’s death. The hospital denies the allegations. If proven in court, it would be the first confirmed death from a ransomware attack. The Verge details how Taylor Swift fans are getting caught up in the Virginia governor’s race. Printed books are getting harder to find because of growing demand for reading material and pandemic-driven supply and labor shortages. Vox has details.Abdulrazak Gurnah is the latest winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. BBC News has more.
10/7/20217 minutes
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What role did pharmacies play in the opioid crisis?

NPR reports on a high-profile civil trial that focuses on the role pharmacy chains may have played in America's deadly opioid epidemic. Several people are under arrest, suspected of running a smuggling ring that moved Haitians, including children, from Chile to Mexico and the U.S. The Miami Herald has the story. Many children rely on school meals as their primary source of nutrition. Right now, pandemic food and labor shortages are making it hard for schools to feed students, the Washington Post explains. A Russian actor and a producer are at the International Space Station to shoot the first feature-length film in space. The Verge takes a look at the mission.
10/6/20217 minutes, 12 seconds
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Understanding the global impact of the Facebook outage

Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp have started to come back online after a massive outage. CNN and the Washington Post have more on the cause and the impact. CNN has the story of the newest winners of the Nobel Prize in physics. They include scientists who did groundbreaking work on predicting climate change. As crews race to clean up the massive oil spill in California, the L.A. Times reports on how a previous spill in the state drove policy changes about offshore drilling that had nationwide impact. Many people say work has taken over their lives during the pandemic. The Wall Street Journal looks at how to gain perspective and fight burnout. Premium economy has turned into the most profitable section of the plane for many airlines. Bloomberg Businessweek explains why they’re giving us the hard sell to trade up.
10/5/20218 minutes, 38 seconds
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Pandora Papers reveal how elites hide vast fortunes

The Washington Post reports on the newly revealed Pandora Papers, which detail an opaque financial universe where global elites shield their riches from taxes, criminal probes, and public accountability. Vox explains how the Supreme Court’s new term will include a number of cases that could alter the trajectory of our legal landscape. Issues on the docket include abortion and gun rights. National Women’s Soccer League players are speaking out and calling for change as accusations of sexual abuse and coercion, reported in The Athletic, rock the organization. National Geographic has the story of the first comprehensive survey of America’s public monuments, which has surprising findings at a time of debate over who should be honored with statues.
10/4/20219 minutes, 57 seconds
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In Conversation: Bob Woodward and Robert Costa on the final months of Trump’s presidency

What was it like inside the White House when Donald Trump lost — then denied losing — the election? Journalists Bob Woodward and Robert Costa, authors of the new book Peril, sat down with Apple News Today host Shumita Basu to discuss the chaotic period, which they consider one of the most dangerous in American history. Peril is available now on Apple Books.
10/2/202126 minutes, 7 seconds
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The government didn’t shut down, but Dems are divided

Congress avoided a government shutdown on Thursday, sending a stopgap spending bill to President Biden’s desk with funding for another nine weeks. Meanwhile, Politico reports that Democrats were unsuccessful in efforts to advance their legislative priorities, leaving a pair of infrastructure bills in limbo. Russell Berman in the Atlantic says they have plenty of time to turn things around. While there is no law preventing judges from owning stocks, they are barred from hearing cases where they or their family have an interest. A Wall Street Journal investigation finds that some have violated this rule. Vaccine mandates may have had controversial beginnings, but a Washington Post analysis finds that anecdotal evidence tells us they’re working. A modern-art museum gave a Danish artist $84,000 to be used in a work of art. Instead of delivering a piece that incorporated the cash, he gave the museum two blank canvases titled “Take the Money and Run.” CBS News reports.
10/1/202110 minutes, 18 seconds
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Lawmakers go to bat over looming shutdown deadline

The U.S. government faces a looming shutdown if Congress can’t pass a spending bill by midnight tonight — but that didn’t stop lawmakers from enjoying their annual baseball game. ABC News has the story. Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reports that President Biden’s legislative agenda is under threat, even as House Democrats are expected to vote on a key infrastructure bill today. Britney Spears is free from her father’s legal oversight, a major development in the singer’s quest for independence. The L.A. Times reports. Salmon is the most popular fish in the U.S. But, according to National Geographic, Americans seeking out sustainably raised salmon might not be getting what they paid for. Netflix says Korean drama Squid Game is likely its most popular show of all time. Variety explains the success of the series, whose violent and dystopian plot sees hundreds of cash-strapped contestants compete in children’s games for a chance at millions.
9/30/20218 minutes, 39 seconds
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Biden’s agenda is on the line. Here’s who may hold the key.

Politico reports on how Democratic senators Kyrsten Sinema and Joe Manchin are frustrating some in their party by continuing to offer few specifics on what they would support in the broad spending bill being considered by Congress. The NBA season is set to begin. Rolling Stone describes one of the league’s biggest problems: players who refuse to get COVID-19 shots. The arrival of thousands of Afghans has split a rural Virginia community. The Washington Post looks at how some residents have rushed to help the new arrivals, while others have been unwelcoming. U.S. officials say the ivory-billed woodpecker is officially extinct after years of futile efforts to save it. The Washington Post has the story of a new report that also declares 22 other species extinct.
9/29/20218 minutes, 34 seconds
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A trillion-dollar coin? How to end the debt-ceiling debate.

Senate Republicans blocked a bill that would suspend the debt ceiling, forcing Democrats to devise a new strategy. As the U.S. runs the risk of default, Vox looks at unusual moves that could end the debt-limit debate forever. CNN previews Gen. Mark Milley’s congressional testimony, which could be highly charged. Senators are expected to press him over his conduct during the Trump administration following revelations in Bob Woodward’s new book. Following R. Kelly’s guilty verdict, the New Yorker looks at questions about the singer’s actions over the decades that remain unanswered. Bitcoin is going nuclear. The Wall Street Journal explains why cryptocurrency miners are increasingly partnering up with nuclear-power plants.
9/28/20217 minutes, 58 seconds
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Here’s what you need to know about booster shots

Mixed messages on COVID-vaccine booster shots are leaving Americans with lots of questions. The Wall Street Journal has some answers. National Geographic reports on how lawmakers are pushing to compensate survivors of the first atomic-bomb test, which took place in New Mexico. Many people who lived near the blast site have had serious health issues. The latest weapon in the war on drugs is a predictive A.I. on your doctor’s computer. Wired shows how it can determine who receives treatment for pain — and who doesn’t. The Times of London details new research showing that when pandas are too happy with their environment, they don’t go out looking for mates. The key to encouraging pairings that create future generations may be habitats that are a little less comfortable.
9/27/20218 minutes, 17 seconds
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In Conversation: Investigation reveals what Facebook hides about its platforms

Facebook’s internal research shows that Instagram, a platform the company owns, can be harmful to teenagers’ mental health. But Facebook has not disclosed that information to the public — and has reportedly done little to address this problem.  In part two of the investigative series “The Facebook Files,” Wall Street Journal reporters Jeff Horwitz and Georgia Wells bring these revelations to light.
9/25/202121 minutes, 46 seconds
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Biden border policy criticized as Haitians are deported

The Biden administration’s move to deport thousands of Haitian migrants is drawing further criticism. NBC looks at the latest developments, and HuffPost explains why the U.S. is on track to admit fewer refugees than it did during the Trump years. Disputes among Democrats could derail Biden’s goals on the environment. The Atlantic says some progressives and moderates have begun hinting that no new climate legislation could be better than a compromise measure. Democratic lawmakers want to create tens of thousands of jobs fighting climate change. The Washington Post explores what a Civilian Climate Corps could look like. National Geographic breaks down new research showing that birds flocked to big cities during pandemic lockdowns.
9/24/20217 minutes, 44 seconds
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Federal police reform is dead, but states have solutions

Talks on a federal police-reform bill collapsed in Congress, marking the end of bipartisan negotiations on the issue after George Floyd’s death. The Atlantic looks at what the rest of the country might learn from Colorado’s own law-enforcement reforms. Last night, the top late-night hosts launched a joint effort on their shows to use humor to talk about climate change. Vulture was watching. A San Francisco Chronicle writer dug up old papers and realized he corresponded in the 1970s with the man who would later be known as the Unabomber. At 100 years old, the National Park Service's oldest active ranger is still going strong. NPR profiles Betty Soskin, who has worked to highlight untold stories of Black Americans on the home front during World War II.
9/23/20219 minutes, 32 seconds
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How the child-care shortage could damage the whole economy

Child-care workers are quitting in droves and day-care owners are struggling to replace them. The Washington Post and Politico look at the impact for families, businesses, policy, and the economy. Redrawing the congressional map to concentrate Black voters together helped Southern states elect more Black members of Congress. The Atlantic reports on how some politicians worry this also diluted Black voting power and are calling for a rethink. If Congress doesn't raise the debt ceiling soon, the resulting default could cause a ripple effect all the way to your wallet, as the L.A. Times explains. A 10-foot-wide house in Boston has sold for $1.25 million. NPR has the skinny home’s bizarre backstory.
9/22/202110 minutes, 7 seconds
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Lawsuit against doctor tests new Texas abortion ban

The Texas doctor who violated the state’s new abortion ban now faces a lawsuit. The Washington Post looks at this early test of the law’s constitutionality. The U.S. government is investigating images of border agents on horseback chasing Haitian migrants near the U.S.–Mexico line. USA Today has details. President Biden’s speech at the United Nations comes amid a diplomatic dispute between the U.S. and France. The Wall Street Journal explores the challenge of maintaining unity among America’s allies on security, climate, and COVID issues. Ninety-nine percent of WNBA players are vaccinated. Sports Illustrated explains how they beat the national rate and other major American sports leagues with a player-led drive to get shots. The Netherlands has the world’s tallest population, but new numbers show its average heights are dropping. The Washington Post reports on scientists’ theories about why this shrinkage is happening.
9/21/20216 minutes, 57 seconds
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Why the U.S. is deporting Haitians from the Mexico border

The Biden administration is deporting Haitian migrants from the U.S.–Mexico border after thousands gathered in a makeshift camp under a bridge. The Miami Herald has the details. The Pentagon has apologized for a drone strike in Afghanistan that killed 10 civilians. Families tell NBC News the U.S. should pay reparations and relocate them out of the country. A BuzzFeed News investigation reveals widespread problems with conservatorships and potential for harm to vulnerable people. Calls for reform have grown as Britney Spears’s court battle has highlighted the issue. The Emmys were dominated by The Crown, Ted Lasso, and The Queen’s Gambit. Apple News editors highlight the best coverage of the moments, the clothes, the jokes, and more.
9/20/20217 minutes, 12 seconds
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In Conversation: The story of Jane Roe, her baby, and abortion in America

Many people may not know that the woman at the center of Roe v. Wade — whose real name is Norma McCorvey — never got the abortion to which she won the right. Journalist and author Joshua Prager set out to find the daughter whom McCorvey ultimately gave up for adoption. In his new book, The Family Roe: An American Story, Prager details the lives of these women and explores how the issue of abortion became so divisive in the U.S.
9/18/202123 minutes, 44 seconds
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Hospitals at capacity struggle to treat non-COVID patients

Hospitals in states with low vaccination rates are overwhelmed with coronavirus cases. ProPublica looks at the harmful, or even fatal, consequences for non-COVID patients. The Hollywood Reporter finds that turmoil at Time’s Up — including revelations that leaders at the nonprofit had advised Andrew Cuomo on his defense against sexual-harassment allegations — has left survivors disillusioned and put the future of the Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund in question. Workers across many industries say they’re still seeing a lot of bad behavior from customers. The Wall Street Journal spoke with psychologists to understand what’s making this phase of the pandemic particularly difficult and why it’s leading to high levels of stress. Tourism boards in cities across the world want tourists to be more respectful on their trips. CNN explains that places like Iceland and New Zealand are even asking visitors to sign a pledge.
9/17/202110 minutes, 17 seconds
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"We have been failed.” Gymnasts say FBI ignored sex abuse.

Four elite gymnasts testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee about sexual abuse by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, saying the FBI failed to protect them. The Washington Post reports that the athletes blasted the agency for mishandling an investigation into Nassar’s misconduct. President Biden announced that the U.S. will share its nuclear-powered submarine technology with Australia. NPR breaks down the thinking behind this rare move. Even though casts of TV shows have become more diverse, the writers rooms behind them still don’t reflect what America looks like. The Atlantic describes how Black writers are often pressured to make Blackness palatable to white audiences at great personal cost. Some of the oldest-known painted pottery on Earth may have been used for beer. Ars Technica looks into a new analysis of 9,000-year-old Chinese vessels that indicate funerals back then were pretty boozy events.
9/16/202110 minutes, 33 seconds
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Why at-home COVID tests are so expensive in the U.S.

California governor Gavin Newsom survived a historic attempt to oust him from office. The L.A. Times breaks down how Newsom defeated this recall effort. Ten years ago, thousands of protesters descended on Wall Street to demand an end to the growing wealth gap in the U.S. The Atlantic looks at how the movement continues to influence American protests, politics, and society. Rapid at-home COVID-19 tests in the U.S. are expensive and in short supply. NBC News explains why it doesn’t have to be this way.  Several factors are leading to an increased demand for used and rental cars. CNBC warns car buyers to look out for vehicles that have been damaged by this year’s overactive hurricane season. And the L.A. Times spoke with experts who say renting a car is going to be increasingly difficult and expensive until at least 2022. For the first time ever, an all-civilian crew will orbit the Earth. The three-day SpaceX mission is dubbed Inspiration4 — and it’s scheduled to launch tonight. The Cut spoke with one of the passengers about how she’s preparing to go to space. 
9/15/20219 minutes, 59 seconds
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Republicans push false election-fraud claim in Newsom recall

With polls indicating that Governor Gavin Newsom is likely to win the recall election in California, some Republicans are trying to taint the results preemptively. Vox is out with a story about how several GOP members are pushing a familiar campaign strategy: refusing to accept the final result if they lose. Progressives are calling for Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer to retire. But the 83-year-old tells NPR and the Wall Street Journal he intends to do so on his own terms, and that many factors will play into the decision. Hurricane Ida was the most severe storm to hit Louisiana since Katrina more than a decade ago. The Wall Street Journal spoke with members of a tribal community on the coast who are struggling to rebuild after the storm without power and water. Jeopardy makes an awkward return in its 38th season. The Washington Post explains why this week’s episodes will be hosted by the recently ousted Mike Richards.
9/14/20218 minutes, 17 seconds
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What counts as a religious exemption to a vaccine mandate?

Some people are trying to bypass COVID-vaccine mandates by claiming getting the shots goes against their faith. CBS News looks into what constitutes a religious exemption. In recent years firefighters in Western forests have used computer models grounded in sports analytics to anticipate how wildfires might spread. But the Wall Street Journal reports that this year’s blazes are so extreme the programs have been less effective. The United States has a history of displacing communities of color to build roads. The Washington Post investigates what a highway-expansion proposal in South Carolina means for a community that was divided by freeway construction decades ago.  If watching someone tap their foot, twirl their hair, or smack their gum makes you mad, you could have misokinesia. Miami Herald is out with a story about the psychological phenomenon, which translates as the hatred of small movements.
9/13/20218 minutes, 25 seconds
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In Conversation: How America’s 9/11 response led to the Capitol insurrection

In his latest film for ‘Frontline,’ documentary filmmaker Michael Kirk lays out how the United States went from a moment of national unity after an act of terrorism to an attack on our democracy by American citizens.
9/11/202124 minutes, 11 seconds
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Victims’ families fight to see secret 9/11 files

President Biden says he’ll open up secret government files about the 9/11 attacks. ProPublica investigates what answers they may provide to questions victims’ families have about whether Saudi Arabia bears some responsibility. A bill before the governor of Texas would limit access to abortion-inducing medication. ABC News reports on how it would further narrow options for pregnant Texans, following the new law restricting abortions in the state. Retailers are spending millions to combat organized shoplifting rings that steal from their stores in bulk and sell the goods online. The Wall Street Journal goes inside the fight against a $45 billion crime wave. Runners smashed records like never before during the pandemic. The New Yorker explains how they were helped by unusual circumstances brought about by lockdowns.
9/10/20219 minutes, 32 seconds
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How 9/11 launched a new era of security spending

After the 9/11 terror attacks, federal defense spending surged. The Wall Street Journal explains how the funding increase transformed the national-security industry and paid for a vast surveillance system. The News-Times reports on how families of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting victims are working to block a move by Remington’s lawyers to subpoena the school records of some of the students and educators killed. As the NFL season kicks off, FiveThirtyEight releases its football projections. Many gardeners think talking to plants helps them grow. The BBC looks at research on the controversial question of whether plants might be able to listen and even talk back.
9/9/20217 minutes, 22 seconds
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Here’s why the accused 9/11 planner is still awaiting trial

Twenty years after 9/11, the accused mastermind behind the attacks is still awaiting trial at Guantanamo Bay. NBC News investigates why the process is taking so long. After the widespread protests against police brutality that followed George Floyd’s murder, leaders in law enforcement and city halls said police were demoralized and quitting in waves. The Marshall Project finds that labor data tells a very different story. Men are falling even further behind women in college enrollment. The Wall Street Journal looks at how colleges are dealing with this controversial issue. National Geographic reports on a new study that offers a ”treasure map” to an undiscovered planet that may be hiding in our solar system.
9/8/20217 minutes, 31 seconds
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Here’s how expiring jobless benefits can affect everyone

Millions of Americans are losing jobless benefits because federal aid has expired. The Washington Post looks at the impact on them and the broader economy. Forty million people depend on the Colorado River for water. ProPublica investigates the role that overuse and climate change are playing in its depletion. American cities are trying to reverse a spike in violent crimes seen during the pandemic. Bloomberg CityLab breaks down new research that finds a connection between helping people repair their homes and reduced crime. The growth of remote work during the pandemic is helping drive the decline of physical business cards. BBC News reports on what’s replacing them.
9/7/20217 minutes, 49 seconds
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In Conversation: What happened when a man made a chatbot of his dead fiancée

Jason Fagone is a writer for the San Francisco Chronicle. In a recent article, Fagone details how Joshua Barbeau created an A.I.-powered chatbot based on his late fiancée. The technology brings up ethical and moral questions about the ways we use A.I. and process loss.
9/4/202124 minutes, 14 seconds
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Expert answers to your questions about COVID safety for kids

A doctor and Washington Post columnist addresses parents’ concerns about how to keep their kids safe as classrooms reopen. Days after Hurricane Ida knocked out power, people are dealing with extreme heat and shortages of gas. The Louisiana Illuminator looks at the challenges on the ground. The Texas Tribune speaks to doctors on how they are dealing with the state’s restrictive new abortion law. Apple News has a special collection of the best reporting on the topic. The Wall Street Journal reports that the Federal Trade Commission is looking into repair issues involving McDonald’s ice cream machines. Frequent breakdowns have been infuriating fans of the fast-food chain’s McFlurry and other desserts.
9/3/202112 minutes, 11 seconds
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End of eviction ban threatens 750,000 households

Powerful remnants of Hurricane Ida are causing deadly floods in East Coast states, CNN reports. A new report says 750,000 households could be hit by eviction following the end of the federal moratorium protecting renters. Politico looks at the potential impact. The Los Angeles Unified School District is mandating that its roughly half a million students and faculty be tested for the coronavirus every week, regardless of vaccination status. The Washington Post breaks down the massive program. In a short career, Aaliyah left a considerable mark on music. Vox examines the singer’s life as a genre-blending artist, 20 years after her death in a plane crash. The Wall Street Journal looks into why rising coffee-bean prices have coffee shops and drinkers facing sticker shock.
9/2/202110 minutes, 36 seconds
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Controversial Texas abortion ban comes at pivotal moment

CNN reports on a new Texas law banning abortions at six weeks of pregnancy that’s now in force. The U.S. Supreme Court did not block it from going into effect. Companies pledged around $50 billion for racial-justice causes after George Floyd’s murder. The Washington Post investigates where the money has gone. Leaded gas has finally been phased out worldwide, at least as a legal fuel for street vehicles, according to a United Nations report. NPR explains the importance of this long-awaited milestone. As the New York Mets struggled this season, fans booed. Some players replied with a thumbs-down. Yahoo Sports looks into what it says about the relationship between athletes and audiences.
9/1/202111 minutes, 14 seconds
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Ida’s warning: Cities aren’t ready for fast-growing storms

The Atlantic explains how Ida’s rapid intensification may be a warning that states need new hurricane emergency plans, because storms can now gather strength faster than cities can evacuate. Afghans who helped American troops face a long and complicated path before they and their families can find permanent homes in the U.S. Vox looks into this. Jury selection begins today in the trial of Elizabeth Holmes, founder of blood-testing startup Theranos, who is accused of misleading patients and investors. The Wall Street Journal has a preview. Antibodies against the coronavirus wane over time, but the immune system may have a plan for that. Bloomberg reports on new research showing vaccines seem to help it develop a backup plan that doesn’t rely on booster shots.
8/31/20219 minutes, 35 seconds
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Danger and darkness: Louisiana reels from Hurricane Ida

CNN reports on the dangerous impact of Hurricane Ida. Around a million customers lost power as the devastating storm moved inland, flooding streets and destroying homes. The U.S. says it launched a drone strike Sunday targeting suspected suicide bombers near Kabul’s airport, the Wall Street Journal reports. U.S. Central Command is investigating reports of civilian deaths from the strike. Military families move frequently, which creates problems for the careers of civilian spouses. The Washington Post looks at new legislation that could make it easier for them to get the licenses they need to work in different states. African governments and businesses are spending more on space exploration. Quartz explains how this increase is driven by a need to expand internet access via satellites. Entrepreneurs are trying to teach computers how to smell, which has proven a real challenge. Bloomberg Businessweek explores how robot noses could change many industries, from food, to security, to health.
8/30/20218 minutes, 15 seconds
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In Conversation: Jason Parham on how Black Twitter became a cultural force

Jason Parham is out with a three-part feature in ‘WIRED’ chronicling how Black Twitter came to exist in its current form. To put together this history, he spoke with the people who have been there since the beginning.
8/28/202117 minutes, 20 seconds
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U.S. braces for more attacks as Afghan evacuations continue

Reuters reports that U.S. troops at Kabul's airport are bracing for more possible Islamic State attacks as they work to evacuate Americans and Afghan allies, following yesterday’s deadly strikes. The water crisis in Flint, Michigan, disproportionately affected people of color. Mother Jones explores how the majority-Black city’s response to COVID closed the racial gap. Next month, mortgage giant Fannie Mae will start considering rent-payment history as part of mortgage approvals. USA Today breaks down how this could help more Americans buy homes. Giant Burmese pythons are killing wildlife in the Florida Everglades. A Field & Stream reporter went along with the snake hunters doing the dangerous work of removing them.
8/27/202110 minutes, 38 seconds
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The national implications of California’s recall election

CNN reports on casualties following what the Pentagon calls a “complex attack” on the airport in Kabul. Vox explains how the unusual design of California’s recall election could lead to Governor Gavin Newsom being replaced by a Republican. In Kansas, civic groups have stopped voter-registration drives. NPR looks into concerns that a new election law is making it harder to sign people up to vote. At a time when controversial statues are being taken down across the U.S., one Texas town is installing new ones. Texas Monthly reports on locals upset over a sculpture series that depicts 16th-century European explorers meeting Indigenous people. Succulent owners in China are outsourcing plant parenthood. The Washington Post takes a look at the growing popularity of succulent fostering.
8/26/20219 minutes, 54 seconds
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Democrats approve a budget plan. Now comes the hard part.

The House passage of the $3.5 trillion budget plan came after moderate Democrats secured a pledge that a vote on a separate, bipartisan infrastructure package would take place by late September. The Washington Post explains how the tough negotiations that led to the deal highlight differences within the party. The Supreme Court is ordering that Trump’s “Remain in Mexico” policy be reinstated. Vox argues that the move leaves the Biden administration with two untenable options. Dirt floors, a health hazard, are common in rural parts of less-developed countries. Bloomberg CityLab looks at a surprising new technology that offers a potential solution. Swimmer Abbas Karimi was born without arms in Afghanistan and fled the country as a teen. Now he wants to become the first member of the refugee team to win a Paralympic medal. USA Today spoke with him.
8/25/20217 minutes, 41 seconds
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Taliban takeover creates a money problem for Afghans

The L.A. Times explains the extremely difficult economic situation Afghanistan now faces under Taliban control. Severe drought in California is taking its toll. The Atlantic and the L.A. Times look at the human and environmental impact. The long and complicated journey of a giant stuffed giraffe from a Chinese factory to an American customer shows how clogged the supply chain has become during the pandemic — and explains why many things are more expensive now. Time has the story. With the Paralympics underway, Sports Illustrated tells the remarkable story of 29-year-old Jessica Long, who has racked up 23 swimming medals.
8/24/20218 minutes, 57 seconds
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What it’s like on the ground after Haiti’s earthquake

A Miami Herald reporter joins us from Haiti to talk about recovery efforts following the country’s recent 7.2-magnitude earthquake. Interest in plant-based foods is growing as more people worry about impact of raising meat on animals and the environment. Vox looks at what a largely plant-based future could mean for Americans who currently work in the meat industry. Josephine Baker, the American dancer and wartime French Resistance agent, will be the first Black woman honored with a place in the Panthéon, the mausoleum for French national heroes. The Times of London has the story. Giant, venomous sea snakes might not intend harm when they attack divers. Gizmodo reports on new research that says the creatures might just be attempting to find a mate.
8/23/20219 minutes, 30 seconds
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In Conversation: Craig Whitlock on 20 years of U.S. lies about Afghanistan

Craig Whitlock is the Washington Post reporter behind The Afghanistan Papers. Whitlock obtained a trove of government documents that revealed the false narrative the U.S. government had been pushing about the war for decades.
8/21/202132 minutes, 21 seconds
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Dispatch from Kabul: Life after the Taliban takeover

Kabul’s airport is in chaos as Afghans who helped U.S. forces try to get out. An Al Jazeera journalist describes what life is like in the city now. An NBC News investigation looks at how international scammers used stolen identities to dupe state unemployment agencies in the U.S. into giving them billions of dollars in COVID benefits. Black women are nearly four times more likely than white women to die during childbirth. The L.A. Times brings us the story of a Black-owned birthing center in Los Angeles that aims to provide specialized care. Researchers studying the daddy longlegs sequenced the arachnid’s genome to learn more about its unique body. NPR reports on how they were able to create a “daddy shortlegs.”
8/20/202110 minutes, 46 seconds
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Images tell the story of what's at stake for Afghan women

Twenty years of photos in the Atlantic show some of the gains women in Afghanistan made after the Taliban was deposed, and what they stand to lose now it’s back in power. As America evacuates Afghans who helped U.S. forces, the Sacramento Bee looks into how resettlement agencies are having trouble keeping up with the pace of new arrivals. The L.A. Times describes an effort to save plants and animals whose habitats are in peril from climate change and human activity. It has been called a modern-day Noah’s Ark. Some of those who work from home have a secret: They are working two jobs at the same time. The Wall Street Journal uncovers the shadowy world of people who pull in six figures by working multiple office jobs simultaneously.
8/19/202110 minutes, 21 seconds
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Global powers hedge bets as Taliban takes Afghanistan

Foreign correspondents for the Washington Post look at what the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan means for nearby Pakistan, China, and India. As COVID cases surge, a ProPublica reporter explains her decision to remove her kids from a school that dropped its mask mandate. The Chronicle of Higher Education and APM Reports break down how American colleges are seeing a drop in foreign students that is hurting schools’ finances. The L.A. Times looks into why Manny Pacquiao, legendary boxer and a senator in the Philippines, is getting back in the ring at 42 years old.
8/18/202111 minutes, 14 seconds
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What happens to Afghans who helped U.S. troops?

CNN reports that the Biden administration is expected to recommend COVID-vaccine booster shots for most Americans. The Washington Post looks at the challenge of resettling Afghans who helped U.S. troops, which has parallels with the end of the Vietnam War. Climate forecasters now incorporate politics into their models of the warming planet. Quartz explains why this matters. Sleek new financial apps are targeting a young generation already drowning in debt. The L.A. Times reports on concerns that these services may promote excess borrowing among consumers struggling with poor credit. A Kenyan orphanage found it hard to get formula for rescued baby elephants during the pandemic. National Geographic explains how goat milk saved them.
8/17/20219 minutes, 44 seconds
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How America’s Afghanistan exit will affect the world

New Yorker writer Robin Wright looks at the long-term impact of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Apple News has a collection of the best reporting on the situation. As Haiti searches for survivors of a powerful earthquake, National Geographic explains why quakes there can be so deadly. Climate change is turbocharging temperatures, which means more American workers will face stifling conditions with deadly consequences. An investigation by Politico and E&E News reveals how difficult setting a national standard to protect them could be. Legalization of online sports betting turned a New Jersey pizza joint into an unlikely gambling hot spot. Sports Illustrated reports.
8/16/20218 minutes, 26 seconds
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In Conversation: E. Alex Jung on who writer Anthony Veasna So might’ve been

Anthony Veasna So was a burgeoning literary star when he died of a drug overdose at 28 last year. For New York Magazine, Jung spoke with So’s friends, family, and partner about who he was. They all have different ideas.
8/14/202121 minutes, 53 seconds
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Former Army officer reflects on U.S. mistakes in Afghanistan

A former Army officer argues in the Atlantic that the U.S. military made major mistakes in Afghanistan, and says the collapse of government security forces there keeps him up at night. The Washington Post looks at what new census data says about America’s increasingly diverse population. Politico explains how the data will affect a congressional redistricting process that contains a lot of wild cards. The Sacramento Bee reports on how California is undertaking a prison overhaul based on the system used in Norway. There are questions over whether this approach will work in America. Smithsonian Magazine looks at a new discovery dinosaur researchers are calling “the closest thing we have to a real-life dragon.”
8/13/202110 minutes, 20 seconds
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U.S. tosses expiring vaccines as the world waits for doses

Many unused COVID-vaccine doses in the U.S. are being thrown away, even as many countries can’t get enough shots. NPR explains why transferring unused doses abroad is so complicated. As newly remote workers move to small places, turning them into “Zoom towns,” rising housing prices are driving out longtime residents. The Washington Post looks at the impact in one community. The Quinault Indian Nation has lived on the coast of Washington state for thousands of years. The Seattle Times reports on how climate change is forcing the tribe to move, and says it’s a problem affecting more and more Indigenous communities. CNN looks at the effort to preserve natural silence in places that haven’t been polluted by human-made noise.
8/12/20219 minutes, 7 seconds
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Cuomo is out. Meet the woman who will replace him.

Andrew Cuomo is stepping down as governor of New York, following an extensive report detailing accusations of sexual harassment. New York Magazine looks at what’s next for him and profiles his successor, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. The Wall Street Journal explains why Birmingham, Alabama, has one of the tightest labor markets in the country. The Brazilian butt lift, one of the world’s most dangerous plastic-surgery procedures, has gone mainstream. Vox reports on growing concern over patients’ safety. U.S. pet owners spend tens of billions of dollars keeping animals healthy. Marketplace looks at why why veterinary costs have been steadily rising.
8/11/202110 minutes, 57 seconds
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Back-to-school is looming. Why aren’t more kids vaccinated?

As parents and children prepare for school to start, the Delta variant is causing a surge in coronavirus cases. Bloomberg Businessweek looks at efforts to speed up vaccination of kids. The latest U.N. report on climate change paints a grim picture of the future. A piece in the Washington Post argues that we shouldn’t give in to despair, and instead should focus on taking action while we still can. Scarlett Johansson is suing Disney over pay after the studio released Black Widow on its streaming service. The Hollywood Reporter explains why the fight is a sign that how studios pay top talent may change significantly in coming years. USA Today reports on how NASA is looking for people to test life on Mars by living in a simulated environment on Earth for one year.
8/10/20219 minutes, 24 seconds
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Afghan troops losing to Taliban following U.S. withdrawal

The Food and Drug Administration is supposed to ensure that medical devices used by the public are safe and effective. ProPublica investigates why the agency allowed a heart pump that didn’t meet federal standards to be implanted in thousands of patients. The United Nations calls its new report on climate change “a code red for humanity.” CNN has key takeaways. The Wall Street Journal looks at the Taliban’s mission to capture cities in Afghanistan as the U.S. withdraws. National Geographic explores how animal-rights advocates are fighting for animal personhood, and what it could mean for creatures in captivity. NPR describes why a large inflatable rat created to protest at labor disputes gained free-speech rights.
8/9/20219 minutes, 47 seconds
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In Conversation: Gabriel Sherman follows the money behind Jeffrey Epstein

In an article for Vanity Fair, Sherman investigates Epstein’s ties to Leslie Wexner, the founder of the company that owns Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works and, until recently, the only publicly known client of Epstein’s.
8/7/202121 minutes, 16 seconds
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States battle over back-to-school mask mandates

As the first day of school approaches, health officials and educators are figuring out how to bring students back for in-person learning without spreading the coronavirus. The Washington Post looks at four Florida school districts that are pushing back against Governor Ron DeSantis’s threat to withhold funding if they mandate mask-wearing. Parents and children who were separated at the southern border by the Trump administration are being reunited by a government task force. BuzzFeed News reports that the reunited families are struggling to get by financially and need resettlement assistance.  Bloomberg Businessweek dives into the story behind a billionaire’s mission to grow genetically modified lungs in pigs for use in humans.  NPR looks at how technologically advanced tracks have helped Olympic athletes compete better.
8/6/202111 minutes, 8 seconds
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What we know about vaccine requirements for indoor dining

This week, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that people in New York City will have to provide proof of COVID vaccination to dine indoors, go to the gym, or watch a live performance. As cases of the Delta variant surge, Quartz looks at how vaccine passes are being are being implemented in Europe.  After a string of legal defeats, a program that would forgive the USDA loans of 16,000 minority farmers is facing an uncertain future. Politico reporter Josh Gerstein breaks down why conservative challenges to the program are presenting the Biden administration with a stark choice.  A move by lawmakers to ban surprise medical bills from January leaves urgent-care clinics in a gray area. Kaiser Health News explains why experts say the regulatory gap could leave patients at risk. The Washington Post looks at an investigation into the NCAA that found that it has consistently undervalued women’s basketball.After a string of legal defeats, a program that would forgive the USDA loans of 16,000 minority farmers is facing an uncertain future. Politico reporter Josh Gerstein breaks down why conservative challenges to the program are presenting the Biden administration with a stark choice.  A move by lawmakers to ban surprise medical bills from January leaves urgent-care clinics in a gray area. Kaiser Health News explains why experts say the regulatory gap could leave patients at risk. The Washington Post looks at an investigation into the NCAA that found that it has consistently undervalued women’s basketball.
8/5/202110 minutes, 2 seconds
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Why top Democrats want Andrew Cuomo to resign

On Monday, a report from New York attorney general Letitia James found that Governor Andrew Cuomo sexually harassed state employees. Rebecca Traister of New York Magazine joins the show to break down what the investigation tells us about powerful politicians and the apparatuses that protect them.  Pandemic lockdowns saw many people who were recovering from drug addiction lose access to the treatment centers and in-person meetings they relied on. Peter Jamison of the Washington Post explains what this meant for a community in West Virginia.  Bloomberg reports on President Biden’s new evictions moratorium, ordered on Tuesday. The measure gives renters in areas that have had "substantial or high” levels of coronavirus transmission an additional two months of relief. Many Black creators responsible for creating viral dances on TikTok have struggled to get proper credit. BuzzFeed News describes how some are moving to protect their intellectual property. In 1968, two American athletes raised their fists in a Black Power gesture during an Olympic medal ceremony in Mexico City. More than 50 years later, Time reports that Olympians have continued to find ways to include protests on the podium.
8/4/202112 minutes, 12 seconds
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What’s in the new infrastructure bill — and what comes next

On Sunday, Senate lawmakers announced a $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure plan. Tony Romm of the Washington Post breaks down what’s in the package and where it stands now. In California, more than 20,000 people were sterilized before a eugenics law was repealed in 1979. Juliana Jiménez writes for NBC News about the history of this practice and efforts to compensate some of the survivors. A few years ago, a study found that preschoolers who watched a lot of Disney princess movies were more hung up on gender stereotypes. But the Wall Street Journal reports that the research continued and has now led to a seemingly different conclusion. Simone Biles returned to Olympic competition, earning a bronze medal in the balance-beam final. Yahoo Sports breaks down the results. Norwegian hurdler Karsten Warholm set a new world record in the 400-meter final. NBC Olympics has the coverage.
8/3/202112 minutes, 57 seconds
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How applying for social services is designed to waste time

To access government services, Americans often spend countless hours dealing with red tape. Annie Lowrey of the Atlantic explains why she calls this a “time tax.” Many homeowners have been able to defer their monthly mortgage payments during the pandemic. The Washington Post reports on the end of the forbearance period and what it means for borrowers. Dino nuggets are a surprising feat of design and engineering. The Wall Street Journal talks to a mastermind behind these kid-friendly shaped chicken-nuggets. NPR has the details of a study that found that Olympic bronze medalists are often happier than those who win silver.
8/2/20219 minutes, 36 seconds
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In Conversation: Roxane Gay talks Kelis’s farm and the beauty of homegrown food

Kelis is a pop star most widely known for her 2003 hit single, “Milkshake.” She’s still performing, but her talents and interests extend beyond the music world. A few years ago, she and her husband bought a farm outside L.A. and started living off the land. Best-selling author Roxane Gay wrote about Kelis’s experience running the farm for Harper’s Bazaar. In her article, Gay explores why Kelis started farming and the freedom it has brought her. Gay also looks at the barriers that often stand between Black people and homegrown food. Gay’s article, called “How Kelis Remixed Her Life,” is available to read (and listen to) in Apple News+.
7/31/202117 minutes, 12 seconds
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New CDC document strikes urgent tone on Delta variant

An internal CDC document obtained by the Washington Post strikes an urgent tone about the dangers of the Delta variant of the coronavirus. Tomorrow, an important federal eviction moratorium is set to expire. The Guardian reports on the impact. Last year, the U.S. homicide rate surged by 25%. ProPublica visits Philadelphia to see what increased violence there reveals about the national picture. The flowers in bouquets held by victorious Olympians during medal ceremonies tell a story of remembrance and rebuilding. NPR explains.
7/30/20217 minutes, 23 seconds
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Why the IRS goes after low-income Americans

The IRS spends a surprising amount of time targeting low-income taxpayers. In the Atlantic, law professor Dorothy Brown argues that America’s auditing system is deeply unfair. Vox explains why U.S. public housing is in such a dilapidated state. A new study finds financial stress can make parents less likely to interact with their children. The Washington Post breaks down the potential impact on a child’s ability to build their vocabulary. The Wall Street Journal looks at how a rule change is making Olympic fencing more interesting. It’s designed to fix an unexpected problem: fencers refusing to fight.
7/29/20217 minutes, 37 seconds
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Vaccine mandates gain steam amid surge in coronavirus cases

As U.S. coronavirus case numbers surge, driven by the highly transmissible Delta variant, more and more governments and businesses are mandating COVID vaccines. Washington Post health reporter Dan Diamond joins the show to explain the trend. Restorative justice is a form of conflict resolution that attempts to tackle problems that prison sentences alone don’t typically resolve, including by having offenders and survivors face each other. New York Magazine takes us inside the process. The Arab Spring protests began in Tunisia. Right now, democracy in that country is on shaky ground. Vox explains. NBC Sports reports on Simone Biles’ decision to pull out of the individual all-around gymnastics competition at the Tokyo Olympics to focus on her mental health.
7/28/202113 minutes
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Officers share stories of lasting wounds from Capitol attack

Officers who defended the Capitol against rioters during the January 6 insurrection testify before a House select committee today. The Washington Post speaks with some of them about the mental and physical injuries they experienced. BuzzFeed News has an in-depth report into how the government handled a criminal conspiracy case that included an alleged plot to kidnap Michigan’s governor. It’s raising questions about the role of government informants in the case. Low-wage workers in America have been pushing for more pay and better benefits for years. Time reports that many of them are starting to win those fights. NBC Sports reports on surprising Olympic upsets in tennis and swimming. Plus, our interview with American swimming gold-medalist Lydia Jacoby.
7/27/202110 minutes, 18 seconds
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What doctors are seeing in states with low vaccination rates

Doctors and public-health officials in states with low COVID-vaccination rates are trying to get more shots in arms as the Delta variant helps drive case numbers back up. Politico’s Erin Banco reports from Alabama and Louisiana on why some states are having trouble. The catastrophic flooding we’ve seen around the world lately is a reminder that many American cities aren’t well prepared for heavy rain, Slate says. The price of diapers is on the rise. The Wall Street Journal reports on how this has politicians considering new moves to help families who are struggling with the cost. As U.S. Olympians compete in Tokyo, a 101-year-old coaching legend will be watching. The L.A. Times has the story of the godfather of judo in America.
7/26/20219 minutes, 33 seconds
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In Conversation: How loss has propelled Olympian Lolo Jones to new success

Lolo Jones is one of only a few Olympic athletes who has competed in both the Summer and Winter Games. She started out racing in track and field but suffered a crushing loss in the 2008 Olympics. Jones later turned to bobsledding and won’t be competing in Tokyo this year. Instead, she’s currently training to qualify for the Winter Games in 2022. Sports Illustrated recently featured a profile of Lolo Jones written by Julie Kliegman. The piece looks at the ways Jones has used her setbacks as fuel to pivot and redefine success for herself. It also covers how the athlete has suffered intense media scrutiny throughout her career. Kliegman’s article, called “Lolo Jones’s Eternal Reinvention,” is available to read (and listen to) in Apple News+. Jones joined Apple News Today’s In Conversation to discuss the Tokyo Games, her struggles with mental health, and her experiences appearing on reality TV. 
7/24/202121 minutes, 19 seconds
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Kiddie-pool swims? Odd tales of pandemic Olympic training.

Pandemic shutdowns pushed Olympians to get creative about their training while gyms and other facilities were closed. The Wall Street Journal spoke to athletes who improvised in unusual ways, from swimming in a kiddie pool to fencing in an alley. Many women in the restaurant industry face sexual harassment. NPR looks at new research linking dependence on tipping, and job requirements to appear friendly, with an increased likelihood of being sexually harassed. A tiny island off the coast of Louisiana is disappearing, leaving its Indigenous residents with a difficult decision to make. Inside Climate News went there to tell their story. A clever community of cockatoos in Australia has figured out how to open people’s trash cans. The Atlantic reports that scientists are fascinated by the way the birds seem to be learning to lift the lids from one another.
7/23/20219 minutes, 16 seconds
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Delta variant threatens to upend U.S. economic recovery

The Washington Post speaks to business and policy leaders who worry the fast-spreading Delta variant of the coronavirus could upend America’s economic recovery, just as federal stimulus programs run out. Many customer-service representatives regularly face both verbal abuse from customers and pressure from demanding managers. ProPublica talked with several of these workers, who shared often disturbing stories about their jobs. If you’re looking to adopt a dog, you might have to wait a while. New York Magazine has an in-depth look at why the number of rescue dogs is dwindling as demand grows. The host of the NBC Olympics podcast The Podium joins the show to talk about what to watch for as the Games get underway.
7/22/20218 minutes, 10 seconds
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A congressional showdown over the future of infrastructure

New numbers show U.S. life expectancy dropped by about a year and a half in 2020. CNBC has the latest data on COVID-19’s deadly impact on America. Talks over big-ticket infrastructure spending could finally come to a head in Congress this week. Politico explains how a risky bet by the Senate’s top Democrat could determine the fate of around $600 billion in new spending. ESPN reports on the Milwaukee Bucks’ NBA Finals victory, their first championship win in 50 years. At least a dozen athletes competing for Team USA in Tokyo are mothers. The Washington Post talks to a number of Olympians on the fight to change attitudes about motherhood and sports. Tilda Swinton’s dogs have won an acting prize at Cannes. W Magazine has the story of the Palm Dog, an unofficial award with quite a following.
7/21/20217 minutes, 28 seconds
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How spyware allowed governments to hack people’s smartphones

The Washington Post is out with new investigative reporting on how governments around the world have used powerful spyware to track journalists, activists, and executives by hacking their smartphones. As climate change drives temperatures up, USA Today looks at how farmworkers are facing increasing health hazards in the extreme heat. It’s a bad time to buy a car, new or used. Slate explains why prices are so high and says they’re likely to stay that way for a while. Olympians Kristie and Samantha Mewis are the first sisters to play together for the U.S. women’s soccer team in a world championship. The Wall Street Journal spoke with their parents about what it was like to raise two soccer stars under one roof.
7/20/202110 minutes, 24 seconds
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Why these refugee athletes opted out of the Olympics

The Refugee Olympic Team consists of athletes who have fled their home nations. Its road to Tokyo has been challenging. Time correspondent Vivienne Walt joins us to talk about why several athletes who have left the team since the 2016 games say they felt trapped and exploited. Vox explains why DACA has been ruled illegal, and what that means for the future of this immigration policy. Hiring is picking up as the economy starts to recover. But the Wall Street Journal says that many jobs lost during the pandemic won’t be coming back. The summer phrase “dog days” takes its name from the sky, not how our pets laze around in the hot sun. National Geographic explains the term’s celestial origin.
7/19/202110 minutes, 16 seconds
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In Conversation: Louise Radnofsky on how Simone Biles stays balanced

Simone Biles is the most decorated gymnast in the world, with four Olympic gold medals and 25 world championship wins. At age 24, she is still breaking new ground in the sport, and she will be leading the U.S. gymnastics team in Tokyo this month. And Biles has accomplished all of this tremendous success while facing many challenges in her personal life. In WSJ. Magazine, sports reporter Louise Radnofsky has a profile of Simone Biles. Radnofsky spoke with Biles about her remarkable career and how she keeps gymnastics in perspective amid enormous pressure. Radnofsky’s article, called “Simone Biles Will Not Be Denied,” is available to read (and listen to) in Apple News+.
7/17/202120 minutes, 18 seconds
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Why the term “breakthrough infections” is misleading

The Atlantic explains why the term “breakthrough infections” may be creating confusion about just how well the COVID-19 vaccines are working. Families are starting to get the new child-tax-credit payments. The Washington Post breaks down a program that’s being called the biggest anti-poverty effort in decades. CNN has an update on the deadly flooding in Europe, where dozens of people are dead and hundreds missing. Venus is relatively close to Earth, but we know surprisingly little about our “sister planet.“ Popular Science spoke with scientists working on the first NASA-funded missions to Venus in decades. Gizmodo reports on new research that has identified 14 living descendants of Leonardo da Vinci.
7/16/202110 minutes, 11 seconds
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Bitcoin miners scramble for cheaper, cleaner power sources

The price of bitcoin has been up and down in recent months. But either way, the environmental cost of mining cryptocurrency is very high. Bloomberg looks at how growing concern about all the energy consumed is leading miners to search for new power sources. Many special policies that made telemedicine easier during the pandemic are going away. Stat explains how this shift is presenting challenges for doctors and patients. National Geographic reports on new research showing trout can get addicted to meth. It’s an environmental concern, because it shows how the drugs people use can enter waterways through the sewer system and harm fish. Many Americans are confronting extremely long waits for passport renewals. The Wall Street Journal breaks down why and has tips on how to deal with the problem.
7/15/20219 minutes, 42 seconds
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Cuba protests put pressure on Biden to change U.S. policy

The Miami Herald looks at how recent protests in Cuba may influence President Biden’s policy toward the country. Senate Democrats say they have agreed on a $3.5 trillion budget that they can pass without Republican support. CNN has details on what’s inside. As Britney Spears’s fight to exit her legal guardianship continues, Politico looks at how it’s driving Congress to call for reform to the conservatorship system. A Washington Post investigation reveals how a legacy of racial discrimination makes it harder for some Black families in the Deep South to get federal disaster aid. A solo cyclist just finished the Tour de France route the old-fashioned way, to raise money for charity. The Wall Street Journal reports on how the ride is even more challenging without the support crews and fancy hotels the pros use.
7/14/20218 minutes, 47 seconds
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What’s next now that U.S. troops have left Afghanistan?

The top U.S. military official in Afghanistan has stepped down, the Washington Post reports. Post journalist Pamela Constable discusses this symbolic end to America’s 20-year war. Texas Democrats flew to Washington, D.C., to prevent state Republicans from passing new restrictions on voting. The Texas Tribune’s Alexa Ura explains what’s happening. For decades, the Olympics has been controversial because of the financial and environmental burden it can place on host cities. Popular Science explores a provocative proposal to end this by creating a permanent Olympic city. A copy of Nintendo's Super Mario 64 sold for more than $1.5 million, a record for a video game. Vice explains why unopened games are fetching such high prices.
7/13/20219 minutes, 51 seconds
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A critical voting-rights battle is happening right now

As high temperatures continue to scorch the American West, the BBC reports on how the intense heat is making it harder to fight wildfires. Texas is again at the center of the fight over the future of voting rights. As state Republicans try to pass new restrictions on voting, the attorney general is facing criticism over the arrest of a Black man accused of illegally voting because he cast a ballot while on parole. The Washington Post has the story. Vox reports on how expiration dates on food labels can confuse people into throwing away perfectly good food. In Maine, populations of poisonous caterpillars are booming, and it’s making people miserable. The Atlantic explains the role of climate change.
7/12/20216 minutes, 30 seconds
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In Conversation: Inside the science behind life extension and the end of death

A growing field of experts seeks to rewrite the limits of the human lifespan. The actual science that may eventually yield the keys to immortality is in its infancy, and there are several promising areas of research. But a burgeoning industry of enthusiasts and opportunists may be taking advantage of that science to push questionable treatments and products. Jacqueline Detwiler-George recently wrote about the expectations and reality of life extension for Popular Mechanics in an article called “Can Science Cure Death?,” available to read (and listen to) in Apple News+.
7/10/202116 minutes, 54 seconds
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Haiti’s assassination crisis — and how it affects the U.S.

Authorities say two Americans are among those under arrest in Haiti in connection with the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, Reuters reports. The police chief says more than two dozen heavily armed commandos were part of a foreign hit squad. NPR puts the current political turmoil in context. Last year saw an increase in driving deaths in the United States, even as fewer miles were driven during the pandemic. Road & Track looks at what’s going on. The Wall Street Journal shares some advice on how to safely have work drinks again after months locked down and drinking at home. Zaila Avant-garde is the Scripps National Spelling Bee’s first African American champion. ESPN has her story.
7/9/20217 minutes, 53 seconds
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Is your favorite team owned by a tax-avoiding billionaire?

The latest story in ProPublica’s series The Secret IRS Files looks at how billionaire owners of professional sports teams can legally avoid paying taxes. Reporter Justin Elliott joins the show to talk about what the investigation uncovered. The highly contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus is tearing through the U.S., putting unvaccinated people in special danger. Bloomberg looks at why vaccination rates are lower in communities that voted for Trump. Climate change may be shrinking animals around the world. Vox explains the surprising new research. The Washington Post reports on how rescheduled weddings are creating a glut of nuptials this summer as lockdowns end, which is exhausting and expensive for guests.
7/8/202110 minutes, 50 seconds
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Delta variant puts unvaccinated Americans in greater danger

The highly contagious delta variant is now the dominant coronavirus strain in the United States. The L.A. Times explains why Black residents are suffering from higher rates of hospitalizations. Food prices are surging to the point where they could could change the diets of people around the world and rock the global political landscape, according to the Washington Post. Star American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson is barred from the Olympics in Tokyo after testing positive for marijuana. USA Today reports on the latest decision from track officials. A controversial new law governing wine labels in Russia has French champagne producers outraged. The Guardian has the story.
7/7/20217 minutes
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As Elsa threat looms, data shows poor get less FEMA aid

Tropical Storm Elsa is threatening to bring heavy rain and possible tornadoes to Florida, potentially complicating the search for missing people in the collapsed condo tower in Surfside. CNN has an update. NPR looks at FEMA data showing that lower-income Americans are less likely to receive federal disaster assistance. The Biden administration wants to review thousands of Trump-era deportations, in an unusual move that could bring some people back to the U.S., the Marshall Project and Politico report. The pandemic created new opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to start their own businesses, according to the L.A. Times. Big changes to orchestra seating arrangements could help limit the spread of the coronavirus, new research suggests. Smithsonian Magazine breaks it down.
7/6/20218 minutes, 7 seconds
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Allison P. Davis and Zola’s Twitter Thread

A’Ziah King, also known as Zola, went viral on Twitter back in 2015. Her series of 148 tweets detailed a mostly true story about a trip down to Florida for an exotic-dancing gig that went awry. A film, titled ‘Zola’ and directed by Janicza Bravo, has now been made based on that viral Twitter thread.  Allison P. Davis, a features writer at New York Magazine, recently profiled Zola. Davis details how many different interests tried to take control of Zola’s story during the filmmaking process — and how Zola feels the final product centers her voice. Davis’s article, called “The Real Zola,” is available to read (and listen to) in Apple News+.
7/3/202123 minutes, 35 seconds
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The future of voting rights after the latest SCOTUS decision

It could now be more difficult to challenge local election rules under the Voting Rights Act, following a 6-to-3 Supreme Court decision upholding voting provisions that Democrats and civil-rights groups argue disproportionately hurt voters of color. SCOTUSBlog and Vox analyze the ruling. The Biden administration is pausing federal executions. The Wall Street Journal explains how this reverses the previous administration’s policy. With restaurants opening back up, the Atlantic looks at how the pandemic changed the way we tip and whether the new habits are here to stay. A massive research project has recorded more than 1 million hours of rainforest sounds. National Geographic details how these recordings help researchers better understand nature and fight poaching.
7/2/20217 minutes, 42 seconds
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Why is Bill Cosby free? Lawyers explain a surprise ruling.

Bill Cosby is out of prison after a court vacated his 2018 indecent-assault conviction. NBC News speaks to legal experts for an explanation of this surprising turn in one of the highest-profile criminal cases of the #MeToo era. A grand jury in Manhattan has filed criminal indictments against the Trump Organization and its CFO, the Washington Post reports. Sources tell the Post the charges relate to allegations of unpaid taxes on benefits provided to execs. A year ago, China passed a national-security law in Hong Kong that has dramatically changed life in the city. CNN looks at its impact. When someone on Twitter accused pop star Olivia Rodrigo of copying an Elvis Costello song, the alt-rock icon had an unexpected response. Billboard has the story.
7/1/20216 minutes, 33 seconds
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Why air travel is such a headache right now

If you’ve tried to fly lately, you’ve probably had to deal with cancelations, delays, and extremely long waits. Vox explains why airlines are struggling to get back to business. Trees provide critical shade that keeps communities cool. The Guardian reports that unequal tree distribution means higher temperatures in many neighborhoods where the majority of residents are people of color. Bloomberg explores possible solutions. In the 1920s, Polish Jewish émigré Eve Adams wrote a book that may have been the first ethnography of American lesbian life. The New Yorker sheds light on how this lost piece of history was rediscovered. With Independence Day approaching, NPR looks at why consumer fireworks are hard to find and extremely expensive right now.
6/30/20219 minutes, 8 seconds
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How extreme heat damages your body and mind

The heat wave that’s breaking temperature records in the Pacific Northwest is a health risk. Bill McKibben in the New Yorker details how extreme heat tests the physical and mental limits of our bodies. There’s been an explosion of college applications. USA Today reports that selective schools had some of their most diverse applicant pools in history after they stopped requiring standardized test scores. Nordic countries dominate the annual World Happiness Report, while the U.S. has never cracked the top 10. The Atlantic argues that Americans are taking away the wrong lessons from the rankings. The latest Fast & Furious movie is racking up big numbers at the box office. The Times of London spoke with the franchise’s stunt coordinator about how to make the perfect car chase.
6/29/20218 minutes, 53 seconds
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Inside the rescue efforts at the Florida condo collapse

As teams look for survivors of the Florida condominium collapse, the Wall Street Journal speaks to a veteran rescuer to understand how the search through the rubble is working. And NPR reports on previous warning signs of structural problems in the building. The U.S. blood supply is getting dangerously low, worrying surgeons and ER doctors. USA Today explains why the problem is one of both supply and demand, tied to the pandemic. As lockdowns end in the U.S., some people feel pressured to declare they achieved personal growth during the pandemic. Vox spoke with psychologists who say that’s not necessary. There’s no good way for astronauts to wash clothes while in space. Fast Company looks at cutting-edge research into a solution that also may lead to more sustainable ways to do laundry here on Earth.
6/28/20217 minutes, 58 seconds
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In Conversation: Belinda Luscombe on MacKenzie Scott giving away her fortune

MacKenzie Scott became one of the richest people in the world after her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in 2019. Now Scott is working on giving away the majority of her fortune. She has already donated more than $8.5 billion in less than a year. Belinda Luscombe, editor at large at Time, recently wrote a profile of Scott — and how she is upending the world of philanthropy with her unique style of charitable giving. Luscombe’s profile of Scott is available to read (and listen to) in Apple News+.
6/26/202115 minutes, 5 seconds
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Investigating abuse of Indigenous North American children

A series of discoveries is shedding light on historical abuse of Indigenous children forced into school systems in North America. The Toronto Star reports on hundreds of unmarked graves found at a former school in Canada, as well as news that the U.S. is to investigate the issue. The Biden administration is banning imports of solar-panel materials from a Chinese company accused of using forced labor in Xinjiang. Bloomberg News puts this move in context. In a personal essay for Eater, Peneliope Richards shares the frustrations she has felt eating in restaurants as a wheelchair user. She argues that since restaurants were able to quickly transform to adapt to pandemic regulations, they should be able to do a better job accommodating diners with disabilities. Music plays a big role in celebrations of the LGBTQ+ community. MTV News goes through decades of musical history to explore how songs have served as means of representation and self-expression.
6/25/20219 minutes, 58 seconds
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Britney Spears speaks out against “abusive” conservatorship

Britney Spears wants her freedom back. The L.A. Times has the story of the star’s much-anticipated court appearance, which confirmed what fans have long suspected: She’s unhappy with and angry at the legal conservatorship that governs her life. Legislation to overhaul how the U.S. military handles serious crimes like murder and sexual assault is gaining momentum, NPR reports. As children return to pre-pandemic activities, some parents are experiencing temporary separation anxiety. NBC News got tips from psychologists on how to handle it. Three hundred years ago, Rembrandt’s painting “The Night Watch” was trimmed to fit between two doors at Amsterdam’s city hall. Now artificial intelligence has re-created its missing parts. The Guardian explains how.
6/24/20217 minutes, 39 seconds
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Why California keeps building houses in wildfire zones

The western U.S. is at high risk of devastating wildfires during the current scorching heat wave. But California developers are still building homes in fire zones. The Sacramento Bee explains why. Senate Republicans blocked a sweeping bill from Democrats to overhaul federal voting rules. The Washington Post reports on how it happened and what comes next. It’s ridiculously easy to make a fake vaccination card in America. Bloomberg News breaks down why that’s bad news for businesses across the country. If you’re feeling anxious about returning to post-pandemic life, some experts recommend befriending a tree. The Wall Street Journal explains why this isn’t as crazy as it may sound.
6/23/20218 minutes, 26 seconds
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COVID’s deadliest new hotspot is close to the U.S.

The deadliest coronavirus hotspot is very close to the United States. The Wall Street Journal reports on South America, which has only 5 percent of the global population but accounts for a quarter of the world’s COVID-19 death toll. New York City residents are facing something new in the mayoral primary: ranked-choice voting. Vox breaks down the arguments for and against this balloting system. And the Wall Street Journal uses bagel preferences to illustrate how it works. Las Vegas Raider Carl Nassib is the first active NFL player to come out as gay. CNN looks at the reaction from the sports world. A theft of more than 42,000 pounds of pistachios is just the latest in a series of nut heists in California. The Washington Post explains the trend.
6/22/20218 minutes, 7 seconds
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Work less, get more done: The case for a 4-day workweek

Proponents of a four-day workweek say it would be good for businesses, workers, and society. The Atlantic explores the idea. The Summer Olympics will have up to 10,000 Japanese spectators at each event. The Wall Street Journal reports from Tokyo. The arrival of a new president in Iran complicates the country’s already tricky relationship with the United States. Bloomberg News looks at the nuclear talks. And Vox explains the new president’s background. The medical-marijuana industry in Maine is largely made up of small independent shops. Politico reports on fears that new regulations may advantage big corporate marijuana dealers. CNN has the story of a painting purchased at a landfill for a few dollars that turned out to be a piece by David Bowie worth tens of thousands.
6/21/20218 minutes, 56 seconds
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In Conversation: Ari Berman of Mother Jones sees Jim Crow in new voting laws

After Democrats won the 2020 presidential election, Republicans responded by proposing a series of new voting laws in red states — designed, they say, to protect future elections. But the U.S. government says last year saw some of the safest elections in American history. Ari Berman is a senior reporter at Mother Jones, and he sees these new laws as an effort to disenfranchise newly mobilized Black voters — a pattern that can be charted from Jim Crow to today. Berman’s story is available to read (and listen to) in Apple News+.
6/19/202118 minutes, 40 seconds
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Celebrate Juneteenth with these mouthwatering recipes

Juneteenth is now a federal holiday. Food writer and producer Nicole A. Taylor shares recipes for celebrating it with family and friends in Food & Wine. CNBC has the story of how extreme heat is presenting serious health and environmental problems across the U.S. West. The Wall Street Journal reports that because of uneven vaccination rates, the future of COVID in the U.S. could vary by state. And Bloomberg News looks into regional differences in vaccination. You might have heard about a man briefly getting trapped in the mouth of a whale. National Geographic explains why it is impossible for most whales to swallow a human.
6/18/202111 minutes, 58 seconds
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Does the new Alzheimer’s drug work? Doctors aren’t sure.

Newly released documents and emails show how Trump and his allies pressured the Department of Justice to overturn the election results. The Washington Post reveals the key findings. The FDA recently approved a new Alzheimer’s drug, despite its panel of expert advisers voting unanimously against the move. Stat explains how doctors are navigating the consequences of the controversial decision. Chinese fashion brand Shein has become incredibly popular among young Americans. Bloomberg News looks at how Trump’s trade war played a crucial role in its rise. Ryan Lochte is trying to become the oldest American male Olympic swimmer. Yahoo Sports reports on his rough start at the trials. Apple News Today host Duarte Geraldino recently spoke with Sports Illustrated writer Brian Burnsed about his profile of the star swimmer.
6/17/20219 minutes, 14 seconds
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Biden’s foreign-policy challenges multiply

As President Biden meets with Russian president Vladimir Putin, another round of Mideast violence breaks out. The L.A. Times looks at what the new Israeli administration could mean for American interests in the region. The term “critical race theory,” once rarely heard outside of universities, is now used on cable news, on social media, and by national politicians. NBC News reports on how networks of conservative activists stirred up a political firestorm around an academic concept. Furniture orders are super-delayed right now, sometimes by up to six months. The design magazine House Beautiful explains why. New high-tech Nike shoes appear to be helping elite runners smash records. As the U.S. Olympic trials begin, the Wall Street Journal details how these shoes are changing the world of track.
6/16/20219 minutes, 9 seconds
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Thinking about quitting your job? Join the club.

As the Trump administration’s Department of Justice comes under scrutiny, a former federal prosecutor argues in Slate that the Biden administration isn’t doing enough to root out past corruption. American workers are quitting their jobs at rates not seen in decades. The Wall Street Journal explores what’s driving the trend. The White House says it’s exploring how to expand access to lawyers for immigrants and asylum seekers. To get a sense of how that might work, Vox takes a look at New York’s program. A plague of mice is tormenting Australia. As the invading rodents eat crops, chew through appliances, and even gobble up car seats, the Washington Post goes into the heart of the battle, and captures striking images.
6/15/20217 minutes, 41 seconds
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Race, gender, and politics may split Southern Baptists

America’s largest Protestant denomination may be about to split over race, gender, and political issues. The New Yorker reports on how this week’s meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention could mark a turning point. The problem of homelessness has intensified during the pandemic. The Washington Post talks to residents of an encampment on the outskirts of Portland, Oregon. Tornadoes are deadly and cause billions of dollars in damage every year. Vox explains why science is so bad at predicting them and what’s being done to improve forecasts. The Atlantic's deputy managing editor investigates an apple that mysteriously survived for more than a year on a colleague’s desk in their locked-down office. (And she ate some of it too.)
6/14/202110 minutes, 12 seconds
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In Conversation: Writer Brian Burnsed on Ryan Lochte’s last shot at the Olympics

Ryan Lochte is the second-most decorated swimmer in Olympic history. After tarnishing his reputation in Rio in 2016, Lochte is gunning to make it back to the games one last time. But, at the age of 36, that’s no easy task. For Burnsed’s story in Sports Illustrated — available to read (and listen to) in Apple News+ — the writer spent time with Lochte, watched his grueling practices, and spoke with him about why he sees his road to redemption ending in Tokyo.
6/12/202110 minutes, 16 seconds
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Not sold on the suburbs? The trend is to just rent there.

As President Biden’s trip to Europe continues, Politico says one of his major challenges will be aligning with other Western leaders on China strategy. And CNN looks at America’s complicated diplomatic dance with Russia. A provocative new piece in the Atlantic argues that the daily commute is an important way to keep work and life in balance. The Wall Street Journal reports on the rise of built-to-rent suburbs. Scientists have long speculated on what causes the northern lights. NPR says one experiment has finally solved the mystery.
6/11/202110 minutes, 27 seconds
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Why some parents say remote schooling was a gift

For decades, researchers have struggled to develop a viable vaccine for malaria, which disproportionately impacts people in Africa. The Washington Post highlights efforts to apply lessons from the fight against COVID-19 to malaria. Many parents of color say remote learning has meant their children experienced less bullying and racism in school. USA Today reports that some now want to keep their kids in virtual classrooms. And the L.A. Times looks at a survey of Black parents on education during the pandemic. The Republican governors of Florida and Texas are battling with cruise companies over vaccination rules. CNN explains the high-stakes fight. To add superstar James Harden to their roster, the Brooklyn Nets gave up their first-round draft picks through 2027. The Wall Street Journal makes the surprising connection between this monumental trade and a talented basketball player in sixth-grade.
6/10/20219 minutes, 55 seconds
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How America’s billionaires avoid income tax — legally

In a new investigation into secret IRS documents, ProPublica reveals how American billionaires manage to pay little or no income tax — without breaking the law. For months now, some scientists have been calling attention to the once-controversial idea that the coronavirus originated in a laboratory. Vox lays out what we know and don't about the lab-leak theory. The growth of for-profit medical schools is raising questions about how the U.S. will train its next generation of doctors. NPR looks at the issue. National Geographic's cartographers say they now recognize a fifth ocean: the Southern Ocean, which encircles Antarctica.
6/9/20219 minutes, 4 seconds
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The FBI made a messaging app to lure criminals. It worked.

Hundreds of people in more than a dozen countries have been arrested in a vast operation targeting organized crime. Suspects thought they were messaging via an encrypted app. CNN reports on how it was actually a digital trap laid by the FBI and the Australian Federal Police. NBC News reports on the new Senate report on the Capitol insurrection. Many businesses struggling to find adult workers are hiring more teenagers. The Wall Street Journal looks at the young people making good money in the current job market. The U.S. relies on college sports as a key way to identify and develop athletes for the Summer Olympics. But the L.A. Times explains that athletic-department budget cuts could affect America’s ability to rack up medals at future games. In Southern California, feral peacocks are driving some residents crazy with their earsplitting mating calls. The Washington Post reports on how the issue of what to do about them is dividing communities.
6/8/20219 minutes, 8 seconds
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Solitary drinking is America’s hidden alcohol problem

Kamala Harris is visiting Guatemala and Mexico in her first trip abroad as vice president. Politico and the Los Angeles Times examine the stakes. The U.S. housing market does not have enough homes listed for sale to meet demand. The Wall Street Journal explains how “whisper listings” might be making matters worse. When it comes to alcohol, America tends to swing between extremes of indulgence and temperance. The Atlantic draws on research and history to look into whether the problem may be not just how much Americans drink, but how often they drink alone. NBC Sports has the story of the latest big win for gymnast Simone Biles.
6/7/20217 minutes, 56 seconds
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In Conversation: Writer Joshuah Bearman on his latest tale of epic misadventure

A down-on-his-luck father, his drug-addicted son, and the work trip from hell. That’s the set-up for Bearman’s new story for New York Magazine — available to read (and listen to) only in Apple News+. In this special edition of Apple News Today, host Shumita Basu talks to him about this strange saga involving an ill-fated Nas concert, a gun-toting client who won’t let them leave Angola, and the enduring power of family. News+ subscribers can read, and listen to, Part II here.
6/5/202120 minutes, 33 seconds
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How high broadband bills keep many Americans offline

When U.S. politicians talk about the “digital divide,” they often focus on the lack of broadband access in rural areas. But even where service is available, many families simply can’t afford it. Vox looks at research showing cost is more of a factor than access. CNET examines what governments and the private sector are doing. This week, the NFL promised to end “race-norming” in brain-injury settlements. The Washington Post and ABC News explain the controversial practice. Many businesses have suffered during the pandemic, but some have had surprising success. BuzzFeed News spoke with people who found themselves in the right place at the right time. CNN reports that a forthcoming government report on UFOs has no evidence confirming sightings were of alien spacecraft, but also doesn’t definitively determine what the objects were. A crumpled, previously crashed 1960 Jaguar recently sold for $127,552. Bloomberg looks at the growing trend of collecting derelict cars.
6/4/20219 minutes, 36 seconds
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How a professional ransom negotiator deals with hackers

Israel could soon get a new leader. Reuters looks at the unusual and fragile coalition that says it has enough votes to oust Benjamin Netanyahu, the country’s longest-serving prime minister. As ransomware attacks become increasingly common, many companies are turning to professional negotiators to get their computer systems unlocked. The New Yorker speaks to a negotiator to take us inside the shadowy process. The true scale of the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia’s Tigray region is unknown because the government has shut down communications and access to the area. But National Geographic managed to get Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario inside to document what’s happening. In order to offset higher costs, some companies are downsizing their products, while keeping prices the same. The Washington Post explains the pandemic trend known as “shrinkflation.” The mullet is making a comeback. Vogue talks to top stylists to find out why.
6/3/202110 minutes, 49 seconds
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Rising crime makes some residents want to secede from cities

As violent crime rises in Atlanta, the Washington Post reports that some residents of a wealthy, mostly white neighborhood are considering forming their own city. Pandemic-triggered workplace measures such as flexible hours and hazard pay may be coming to an end for many people. Vox looks at why some employers are starting to roll back these changes. An experimental gene therapy has had some success in partially restoring lost vision. The Wall Street Journal sums up the findings. One of the largest fossil discoveries in California history happened thanks to a ranger on routine patrol. The Guardian shows what’s been found.
6/2/20219 minutes, 6 seconds
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Naomi Osaka move shines new light on mental health in sports

In the Atlantic, new research quantifies the decades-long financial impact of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. And NPR gets reactions from Black business leaders. Tennis superstar Naomi Osaka has pulled out of the French Open, citing mental-health issues. Sports Illustrated explains the significance. And Jonathan Liew writes in the Guardian that the dispute over whether she would participate in press conferences should be a wake-up call for sports journalism. National Geographic reports on what minors can do if they want to get a COVID vaccine but their parents won’t allow it. Do highway signs that try humor as a way of delivering safety messages actually work? Marketplace takes a look.
6/1/20219 minutes, 13 seconds
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Why beef prices are soaring as grilling season begins

Senate Republicans filibustered a bill to create a commission on the Capitol insurrection. Politico reports on the vote. ProPublica reports on a study that says U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement may be using a strategy of quietly releasing detained immigrants who challenge it in court to maintain the status quo on prolonged detentions. As we head into grilling season, the price of beef is going up. Reuters details why. Ohio is getting attention for its $1 million COVID-vaccine lottery. The Washington Post looks into the impact of offering prizes for those who get vaccinated.
5/28/20217 minutes, 50 seconds
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The fight over vaccine access in the developing world

President Biden is asking U.S. intelligence to intensify its investigation into the pandemic’s origins. NPR has the story. Developing countries are losing out to wealthier nations when it comes to getting COVID-19 vaccines. The Wall Street Journal looks at the debate over whether temporarily waiving drug patents could make shots more widely available. And Vox explains why the international vaccine initiative COVAX isn’t getting the shots to the developing world faster. Federal student-loan payments were paused during the pandemic, but that is set to end in September. Borrowers tell BuzzFeed News how they’ve benefited from the forbearance, and what it will mean if they have to restart payments in the fall. A study says the presence of wolves may reduce incidents of cars hitting deer. The Atlantic’s Ed Yong brings us the details of this surprising research. Floyd Shockley is a professional bug collector for the Smithsonian. The Washington Post joins him as he searches for the perfect cicada specimens.
5/27/20219 minutes, 19 seconds
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How Black Lives Matter changed the Mideast debate in America

The debate over Middle East policy is changing in the U.S., with more Americans expressing support for Palestinians. The Washington Post and L.A. Times explain the role Black Lives Matter has played in this shift. Some Republicans who supported Trump’s election falsehoods are now running to become their states’ top election officials. Politico has the story. Many people who lost restaurant jobs during the economic shutdown have decided to leave the business completely. The Washington Post spoke to industry veterans to find out why. WABC reports on the first recordings of humpback whales singing off the coast of New York.
5/26/20217 minutes, 37 seconds
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Who George Floyd was and how his murder changed America

One year ago today, George Floyd was murdered. Minnesota Public Radio tells the story of his life. And Politico asks journalists, academics, and politicians to reflect on how his death has reshaped the United States, and the progress that’s still to be made. Antisemitic attacks are on the rise across the U.S. NPR explains how violence has risen along with tensions in the Middle East. The Washington Post reports on the Indian American doctors in the U.S. volunteering their time to help COVID patients in India remotely. After their performance in a Los Angeles public library went viral, an all-girl punk band of teens and preteens snagged a record deal. The L.A. Times has their story.
5/25/20219 minutes, 54 seconds
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A year after George Floyd’s murder, how have police changed?

President Biden wanted to sign major police-reform into law before the anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, which is tomorrow. NBC News looks at why legislators are missing the deadline, while the Washington Post examines how changes to policing are playing out in Minneapolis. Entrepreneur Byron Allen is suing McDonald’s for $10 billion, saying it doesn’t spend enough of its advertising budget on Black-owned media companies like his. Bloomberg explains how the lawsuit changes the conversation around diversity in advertising. News that South Carolina is allowing executions by firing squad has been in the headlines. But the wider U.S. capital-punishment story is that of the death-penalty’s decline, as Vox explains. The Golden Gate Bridge has started making a “humming” noise on windy days, and many people find it irritating. The San Francisco Chronicle looks at engineers’ attempts to fix the issue.
5/24/20218 minutes, 27 seconds
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A classic real-estate tactic might get you into legal trouble

Israel and Hamas may have reached a cease-fire, but there are still tough problems ahead. NBC News is covering the massive rebuilding effort in Gaza and concerns the truce won’t last. Some surprising developments are happening as the housing market heats up further. The Wall Street Journal reports on how rich investors are outbidding small-town families looking to buy homes. And CNN explains why the old tactic of writing “love letters” to sellers may put people in legal jeopardy. The United States is seeing a major spike in trash during the pandemic. Time Magazine breaks down some of the reasons why. An Italian village was underwater for decades, but it recently reemerged. BBC News takes us inside the ghostly remains of a lost community.
5/21/20217 minutes, 50 seconds
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“I still smell smoke”: Tulsa Race Massacre survivors speak

A bill to establish a commission to independently investigate the Capitol insurrection is dividing the GOP, as Politico and the Hill explain. Survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre in 1921 are speaking out. NPR reports on their Congressional testimony calling for reparations and remembrance. The European Union is taking steps toward allowing vaccinated U.S. tourists to visit. The Atlantic looks at why the tourism industry is eager to have Americans back, even if they’re stereotyped as loud and irritable. Seeing people without masks on is messing with our brains. The Wall Street Journal talks to a cognitive scientist about why it can be confusing and surprising when we see what people look like without masks.
5/20/20217 minutes, 9 seconds
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As the U.S. debates free pre-K, research shows its impact

Arizona’s controversial election audit is drawing growing criticism. The Washington Post explains why many elections experts are raising red flags. And Vox looks at how former president Trump’s false election-fraud claims are affecting the Republican Party. In the Atlantic, Zeynep Tufekci argues that the recent Colonial Pipeline hack needs to be a wake-up call to fix major security problems in the code that runs our infrastructure. President Biden is proposing to set aside $200 billion dollars to fund universal preschool. NPR’s Planet Money details research on how beneficial early education can be. In the early weeks of the pandemic, rush-hour traffic practically disappeared. But the Wall Street Journal reports it’s coming back, where we might least expect it: the afternoons.
5/19/20218 minutes, 53 seconds
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The Supreme Court case that could upend abortion rights

The Supreme Court will hear arguments later this year in a case that could challenge Roe v. Wade. Amy Howe of SCOTUSblog breaks down why the stakes are high for the future of abortion law in America. The Biden administration will soon begin distributing expanded child-benefit payments to tens of millions of American families. The Washington Post details how the program will work. Ahead of a much-anticipated government report on UFOs, the New Yorker explains how the issue has gained legitimacy over the past few years, in part thanks to the work of one investigative journalist. A lack of gender diversity in clinical trials is not only a problem in those involving humans. CNN reveals how it also affects animal experiments.
5/18/20218 minutes, 19 seconds
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How a “junk insurance” policy could cost you thousands

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is rejecting global calls for a cease-fire in Gaza. Politico reports on how the response from Democrats in Congress is different this time around. And Zack Beauchamp argues in Vox that a shift to the right by Israel’s government has stoked divisions between Jews and Arabs. A recent ProPublica investigation shows that millions of people in the U.S. may be exposing themselves to huge financial risk by purchasing short-term health-insurance policies with major coverage limitations in the fine print. A Black homeowner wondered if her race was a factor in why appraisals of her home were suspiciously low. The Indianapolis Star reports that when she hid her race, the value doubled. A new, experimental device can turn a person’s thoughts of handwriting into actual text. NPR has the story behind this groundbreaking research.
5/17/20219 minutes, 5 seconds
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CDC says: Vax on, mask off (mostly). Here’s what to know.

New CDC guidance says fully vaccinated people can mostly remove masks indoors. NPR takes a look at what has and hasn’t changed. More than 1.9 million Americans could be affected by Republican governors cutting back unemployment benefits. The Washington Post examines the possible impact. As American troops withdraw from Afghanistan, the White House is weighing how to evacuate thousands of Afghan citizens who have worked for the U.S. government. Bloomberg News describes the danger they face. Breanna Stewart is the first WNBA player in a decade with a signature-sneaker deal. ESPN explains why it could be a significant development for women’s athletics.
5/14/20217 minutes, 4 seconds
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“I just refuse to bow”: Trump’s GOP foes fight back

Liz Cheney’s removal from House Republican leadership is another sign the GOP is maintaining strong ties to former president Donald Trump. The Washington Post looks at Cheney’s plan to fight back, and the Atlantic speaks with another anti-Trump Republican working to change things within the party. As the situation in Israel and Gaza escalates to deadly new levels, CNN reports on the sectarian street violence it’s sparking among regular people. NPR reports on new clashes in Lod, a city in Israel where Jewish and Muslim residents once lived together peacefully. The Wall Street Journal explains why Americans are now paying off credit-card debt at levels not seen in years. The U.S. has a new chess master. He’s 10 years old. NPR has the story of Tani Adewumi, a prodigy who overcame persecution and homelessness.
5/13/20218 minutes, 5 seconds
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Why genetically modified mosquitos are coming to Florida

As data shows a dramatic slowing of American birthrates, Washington Post chief correspondent Dan Balz has a report on how new immigration policy may be a way to avoid a depopulation problem. And NPR reports from Idaho on indications of growing support for refugees in traditionally red states. Researchers are releasing genetically modified mosquitoes into the Florida Keys, in a new attempt to reduce the dangerous diseases spread by mosquito bites. Time reports. According to COVID-19 experts, if you’re fully vaccinated, you can relax about your personal risk. Vox gets perspective from scientists and doctors. Charities say they’re getting too many donations of broken stuff they can’t resell, which means they have to spend their own money disposing of it. NPR visits a Goodwill to find out which donations help and which hurt.
5/12/20218 minutes, 36 seconds
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Escalating Mideast violence presents challenge for Biden

The Washington Post takes a step back and explains the events that led to the deadly escalation of violence between Israelis and Palestinians. And Politico reports on the Biden administration’s response. As more Americans face the decision of whether and how to return to the office, the Wall Street Journal has tips on how to think about it. In a wide-ranging and personal essay in the New Yorker, Jiayang Fan argues for a reappraisal of our gut instinct of disgust. Ice Cube and the Robinhood stock-trading app are in an unusual legal battle over one of the rapper’s iconic lyrics, as the Hollywood Reporter explains.
5/11/202110 minutes, 5 seconds
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How one powerful cyberattack sent gasoline prices up

Gasoline prices spiked after a key U.S. pipeline was shut down following a ransomware cyberattack. Politico reports on what’s believed to be the largest successful cyberattack on American energy infrastructure that has ever been publicly disclosed. A bombing killed dozens at a school in Afghanistan. The Washington Post reports from Kabul on how this is raising new questions about security as American forces leave the country. NBC News reports that the result of the Kentucky Derby is in doubt after winning horse Medina Spirit failed a drug test. Drone video footage reveals that great white sharks swim much closer to us than previously realized. The L.A. Times explains why that’s no reason to be afraid of getting in the water. ESPN looks at the mysteries behind some of the most coveted missing memorabilia in sports history, including collectibles that are on the Moon.
5/10/20218 minutes, 36 seconds
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Millions are jobless. Why are employers struggling to hire?

New numbers show the U.S. economy added 266,000 jobs in April, which is much less than forecasters expected. Millions of Americans are unemployed, but some businesses say they’re struggling to fill job openings. The Wall Street Journal and NPR explore why. The United States is moving toward approval of COVID vaccinations for young children. The Houston Chronicle has the story of one toddler who’s participating in a clinical trial. And CNN reports on survey data showing how parents feel about vaccinating their own kids. Young people are increasingly turning to TikTok for tips on how to manage their money. The Wall Street Journal examines what’s going on and whether the advice is any good. ESPN looks into why so many top athletes are named Jalen and finds a surprising and touching story of legacy and family, just in time for Mother’s Day.
5/7/20218 minutes, 46 seconds
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Colombia protests turn deadly as people call for reform

Dozens are dead in Colombia after protests over economic, human-rights, and health issues were met with a violent police response. The Washington Post has a report from the ground. A new federal court ruling involving Snapchat could threaten special protections for tech companies. NPR explains. In Politico, Sarah Isgur argues that the way Supreme Court justices pick their clerks may be holding back qualified women and people of color from making it to the top of the legal profession. Renting chickens is a thing. National Geographic explains why companies that loan out egg-layers have seen business boom during the pandemic.
5/6/20218 minutes, 7 seconds
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Trying to avoid COVID, they missed cancer warning signs

The Verge reports on the Facebook Oversight Board decision to uphold Facebook’s ban on former president Donald Trump. A rift among House Republicans may cost Liz Cheney her leadership post. Politico explores growing tensions over what role Trump should play in the party's future. As the pandemic stretches on into its second year, doctors are concerned about an emerging crisis of undiagnosed cancers. ProPublica reports on how people who missed screenings or hesitated to visit hospitals over the past 14 months risk being diagnosed too late for treatment. Births in the U.S. hit a 40-year low last year, new numbers show. The drop may not be solely due to the pandemic, as the Wall Street Journal explains. Natives of southeastern Pennsylvania say British actor Kate Winslet nails the distinct Delaware County accent in HBO’s new drama Mare of Easttown. Winslet tells the L.A. Times how she mastered it.
5/5/20218 minutes, 57 seconds
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Black Wall Street’s rebirth, 100 years after Tulsa massacre

With several Republican-run states introducing controversial legislation dealing with voting access, Democrats are trying to push back at the federal level. Politico looks at the challenges they face in moving forward with a voting-rights bill. Bloomberg reports on President Biden’s decision to allow more refugees into America, along with the political impact. While landlords are often cast as villains, many property owners rely on rent payments to feed their families. For the Washington Post, Eli Saslow talks to one “small landlord” who risks falling into bankruptcy because of the pandemic housing crisis. The Tulsa Race Massacre took place 100 years ago this month. Essence says many of the Black-owned businesses that were destroyed in the atrocity were subsequently rebuilt, and details the ongoing work to preserve the history of Black Wall Street. The Wall Street Journal visits a Japanese city that takes New York–style cheesecake so seriously it has a rigorous government-certification process to make sure restaurants are making it right.
5/4/20219 minutes, 40 seconds
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Are the Olympics really going to happen this year?

With the Olympics in Tokyo set to begin in less than three months and coronavirus cases increasing in Japan, the Washington Post looks into new questions over whether the games should go ahead. Reuters is covering a suspected migrant-smuggling ship that broke apart off the coast of San Diego on Sunday, killing four people. We’re getting a clearer picture of just how high the political stakes are with the new census numbers. NPR’s Hansi Lo Wang explains the tightness of the margins that determine which states win and lose congressional seats. And Politico looks at the growing number of legal fights over the count and the redistricting process. CNN reports on data showing that a number of people are missing their second COVID-vaccine appointments. And the Washington Post answers key questions about the importance of the second shot. Members of the German women’s gymnastics team recently took a stand against the sexualization of female athletes by competing in unitards, rather than the more revealing leotards typically worn. NPR reports on the global conversation the move is sparking about gender dynamics in sports.
5/3/20217 minutes, 59 seconds
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Top Indian writers on their country’s COVID nightmare

The COVID situation in India right now is catastrophic. Three Indian writers offer analysis on why the pandemic is intensifying there in such a devastating way: Arundhati Roy in the Guardian, Rana Ayyub in Time, and Vidya Krishnan in the Atlantic. The Biden administration has rolled back many Trump-era immigration policies. But the L.A. Times reports that hundreds of thousands of migrants are still being expelled into dangerous situations in Mexico. In light of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s recent split, Allison P. Davis writes for New York Magazine that the dynamic at the beginning of their relationship has completely flipped now that their marriage is ending. The Jacksonville Jaguars chose quarterback Trevor Lawrence as the number one pick in the NFL draft. The Ringer looks at what the future may hold for him and his new team.
4/30/202110 minutes, 35 seconds
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How Biden’s new spending and tax plan could affect you

As President Biden marks 100 days in office, he’s pushing a series of proposals calling for major new government spending to boost the economy. The Wall Street Journal has highlights of his first address to a joint session of Congress. Apple News Spotlight looks at what his administration has — and hasn’t — accomplished so far. And Vox breaks down the details of his $1.8 trillion plan to support child care, education, and paid leave. The Washington Post reports on West Virginia’s decision to offer $100 savings bonds to persuade young people to get COVID-19 vaccinations. Making a song go viral on TikTok often requires intense calculation, guidance, and effort by the social-media platform. Bloomberg Businessweek explains how the process works.
4/29/202110 minutes, 56 seconds
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How a teen’s Snapchat post became a Supreme Court case

One teenager’s salty Snapchat post is now at the center of a potentially pivotal Supreme Court case. The Washington Post explains how the ruling could transform the free-speech rights of students for generations. Body-camera footage has become the defining way the public comes to understand violent police encounters. NPR has the details of a recent study that shows some of the potential benefits of this technology. Government agencies are taking money owed to some of the most vulnerable people in the country: foster children. A recent investigation by the Marshall Project and NPR reveals how and why this is happening. Jeopardy! recently came out with its final slate of guest hosts. The Ringer looks at what it’s like to fill in for Alex Trebek.
4/28/202110 minutes, 11 seconds
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What we’ve learned from Kamala Harris’s first 100 days as VP

While many public officials and activists are calling for tighter gun restrictions, NPR reports that the U.S. is seeing an increase in sales, driven by first-time buyers. As the Biden administration crosses the 100-day mark, we’re getting a clearer picture of the role of Vice President Harris. CNN has a one-on-one interview. And the L.A. Times explores her early influence. California is headed for its second recall election. Politico explains how it is very different from the previous one, in 2003. A group of women Marines has broken one of the last military gender barriers. Reuters speaks to the first women to pass Camp Pendleton’s feared “crucible,” a 54-hour test of strength and endurance.
4/27/20217 minutes, 43 seconds
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The new global inequality: Access to COVID-19 vaccines

As India deals with an overwhelming coronavirus surge, the United States is sending aid including ventilators, test kits, and the raw materials to make COVID-19 vaccines. The Washington Post looks at criticism that rich countries such as the U.S. could be doing much more to improve vaccine access for developing nations. The once-a-decade process of redrawing congressional maps kicks off this week, when the Census Bureau publishes its count of every person in the U.S. Politico explains how this works and what’s at stake. The L.A. Times recaps an Oscar ceremony that included groundbreaking moments. And Vulture breaks down the ending, which left many viewers confused and frustrated. In the past, catching a foul ball at a Major League Baseball game was a long shot. But the Wall Street Journal has the story of one 10-year-old Baltimore Orioles fan who found the pandemic changed her odds.
4/26/20218 minutes, 29 seconds
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Advocates press Congress for national police-reform bill

In light of the Derek Chauvin verdict, many people in the U.S. are looking to Congress to pass meaningful police-reform legislation. Vox looks at the differences between the Democratic and Republican proposals so far. The coronavirus pandemic has become dire in India. The Guardian describes how the the country’s health-care infrastructure is crumbling under the influx of COVID-19 patients. And Reuters reports that experts are blaming the government for failing to make well-informed public-health decisions. Tax increases are likely to play a crucial role financing President Biden’s multitrillion-dollar infrastructure package, which could mean a lot more work for the IRS. But the Wall Street Journal reports that the agency has suffered from a decade of underinvestment, outdated technology, and brain drain. After years of awards ceremonies in which women and people of color were underrepresented across the board, this year’s Academy Awards are significantly more diverse. NPR arts critic Bob Mondello has a theory that the pandemic has a lot to do with this shift.
4/23/202110 minutes, 31 seconds
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Can Biden cut U.S. climate emissions in half?

President Biden is today expected to announce a new U.S. target for greenhouse-gas emissions: a 50 percent reduction by 2030. The Wall Street Journal reports that he is looking to reestablish a leadership role for the country on climate change. NPR breaks down what it will take to achieve the new target. Last spring, thousands of federally incarcerated people were sent home to continue serving their sentences there. The Washington Post explains why many are now wondering whether they’ll be sent back behind bars. And Reuters recently spoke with a few people whose newfound freedom may be short-lived. Housing experts are warning that a real-estate bubble fueled by climate change could eventually burst — sending a shock through the U.S. economy. Time looks at how this could happen. In 1879, a botanist named William Beal began an experiment to find out how long seeds can lie dormant underground and still be able to sprout. It’s still going on today. NPR has the story of the latest installment of this multicentury study.
4/22/202110 minutes, 49 seconds
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The Chauvin verdict is in: guilty. What happens now?

Former police officer Derek Chauvin has been found guilty of murder and manslaughter in the death of George Floyd. Apple News Spotlight has a collection of the best coverage about the trial and verdict. New York Magazine provides analysis on why the verdict does not equal true justice. And an op-ed in the Washington Post highlights the underlying systemic racism at play. Today, the Senate is set to vote on the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act. Vox breaks down the bill’s significance and limitations. USA Today chronicles the rise and fall of professional soccer’s short-lived Super League. Skateboarding is making a comeback. NPR reports that skater girls and social media are driving the trend.
4/21/20219 minutes, 57 seconds
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How can governments address crimes against the environment?

As the White House hosts a global summit to address climate change, a group of advocates is pushing for environmental destruction, also known as “ecocide,” to be categorized as an international crime. NBC and Inside Climate News are partnering on a series that looks at this effort. One jail in Washington, D.C., may be taking COVID-mitigation measures a step too far. The Washington Post reports that for more than a year, its inmates have been confined to their cells for 23 hours a day.  When the coronavirus hit South Africa, the government banned alcohol to prevent people from gathering. NPR reports that while the move did help in the fight against COVID, it also highlighted a history of alcoholism in the country that has its roots in apartheid. A new flavor out of Japan, called kokumi, might be on its way to becoming the sixth taste. The Wall Street Journal explores how it could have a big impact on our diets and health.
4/20/20219 minutes, 25 seconds
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What the surgeon general has to say about vaccine hesitancy

Today is the date President Biden set as the deadline for states to open up COVID-vaccine eligibility to all adults. Apple News Today host Shumita Basu talks with Surgeon General Vivek Murthy about the significance of this moment. Protesters have gathered in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, every night since Daunte Wright was shot and killed there by a police officer. In the Atlantic, Will Stancil writes that the suburb shares many characteristics with Ferguson, Missouri, where Michael Brown was fatally shot by an officer in 2014. And NPR says Brooklyn Center offers a key example of the disconnect that can emerge between residents and powerful institutions in resegregated communities. Alexei Navalny, a leading critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin, may only have days to live. The Wall Street Journal reports that those close to Navalny are sounding the alarm about his deteriorating health and that immediate medical attention is needed. The Washington Post explains that Navalny’s condition and Russia’s refusal to give him proper care is putting a further strain on Putin’s reputation and the country’s relationship with the United States.  Regina Mitchell hosts a popular online cooking class for people living with disabilities. The L.A. Times recently spoke with the chef, who is blind, about how she’s aiming to help give members of this community the confidence and skills to prepare their own food.
4/19/202112 minutes, 5 seconds
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Soon Derek Chauvin’s fate will be in the jury’s hands

CNN reports on a deadly mass shooting at a FedEx facility in Indianapolis. Chicago is reacting to new video of the fatal police shooting of a 13-year-old boy. The Chicago Tribune has a frame-by-frame analysis of the graphic footage. The defense has rested its case in Derek Chauvin’s trial for the killing of George Floyd. In the New Yorker, Harvard law professor Jeannie Suk Gersen explains what’s important to understand about how a jury could see the evidence. President Biden promised he would significantly raise the refugee cap but has yet to do so. The Washington Post explains why he has drawn criticism from human-rights advocates on this issue. In the earliest days of the pandemic, many people rushed to disinfect surfaces. The Atlantic reports on how scientists now believe the coronavirus spreads primarily through the air, not on surfaces, and says this means excessive focus on disinfection is misguided.
4/16/20217 minutes, 58 seconds
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Latest police killing raises doubts about possible reform

Kim Potter, the former officer who killed Daunte Wright during a traffic stop in Minnesota, has been charged with second-degree manslaughter. Writing for the New Yorker, Jelani Cobb notes that Wright’s death is raising questions about the future of police reform. And in Vox, Sean Collins discusses how routine traffic stops can turn fatal for Black Americans. Bloomberg reports on U.S. plans to sanction Russia for election meddling and hacking. President Biden’s infrastructure proposal includes $400 billion in funding for at-home care for seniors. The Wall Street Journal reports on how this would support the country’s growing elderly population. And USA Today looks at why the White House argues that eldercare fits into an infrastructure plan. The pandemic forced courtrooms onto video conference platforms, and remote proceedings may be here to stay. The Atlantic explores what is lost and gained when the justice system moves online. In less than two weeks, Bhutan vaccinated more than 93 percent of its eligible adult population. The Washington Post explains how this small Himalayan country did it.
4/15/202110 minutes, 25 seconds
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Out of Afghanistan: Biden’s big bet on American security

President Biden is pulling U.S. troops out of Afghanistan. CNN looks at what the move says about how his administration will navigate a changing world full of new dangers for America. Vox answers key questions about the pause in U.S. distribution of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. A recent rise in consumer prices has sparked debate about how worried we should be about inflation. Vox breaks down what’s important to understand. As the Olympics in Tokyo approaches, some athletes who planned to retire after these games are considering sticking it out for the 2024 event. The Wall Street Journal explains why.
4/14/20218 minutes, 23 seconds
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CEOs double down on voting-rights fight

Stat reports on U.S. regulators recommending pausing distribution of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine “out of an abundance of caution,” while they investigate very rare cases of blood clots. American CEOs are doubling down in their fight against legislation they say will restrict voting rights. The Washington Post reports that more than 100 executives recently got together on a conference call to talk about leveraging their influence. And NPR explores the surprising history of political boycotts. Editors of medical journals get to decide what research gets a wide audience, making them some of the most important gatekeepers in medicine. Stat spoke with cardiologist Dr. Raymond Givens, whose investigation has revealed a striking lack of racial and ethnic diversity among editors of these influential publications. Carbon credits have been touted as a way to use market forces to reduce emissions, but an investigation by Bloomberg casts doubt on their effectiveness. French tacos are not tacos as anyone familiar with authentic Mexican cuisine would know them, but the overstuffed panini-burrito hybrids have become a beloved fast food in France. The New Yorker takes an in-depth look at this puzzling creation.
4/13/202110 minutes, 50 seconds
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U.S. under pressure after Iran nuclear incident

Iran says Israel was responsible for a blackout at its Natanz nuclear site. Bloomberg and CNN report on an event that’s raising stakes for the U.S. in the region. A Black man died after being shot by police in suburban Minneapolis yesterday, adding further tension in a community that’s already on edge. The Washington Post reports on the incident. And USA Today previews the week ahead in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former officer accused of killing George Floyd. Japanese golfer Hideki Matsuyama made history this weekend as the first man from an Asian country to win the Masters. ESPN has his story. Amazon workers in Bessemer, Alabama, voted overwhelmingly against joining a union. The Wall Street Journal reports on where the organized-labor fight could go from here. An auction house in Madrid was ready to sell an obscure old painting for a little less than $2,000 when it got word it might be a Caravaggio worth tens of millions. The Guardian tells the story of an art-world mystery.
4/12/20217 minutes, 49 seconds
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“The Line” episode 1: We have a problem

Apple News Today is bringing you a special Saturday episode, featuring the first chapter from “The Line,” a new investigative podcast from Apple TV+. In 2017, during the Battle for Mosul in Iraq, a young ISIS fighter is taken prisoner and brought to the SEALs of Alpha Platoon, SEAL Team 7. The prisoner dies in their custody—and the SEALs from Alpha Platoon accuse their chief, Eddie Gallagher, of war crimes. The accusations are one more scandal in the SEAL community, which is hurting after nearly two decades of war. What is happening to the Navy SEAL? In 2018, a group of Navy SEALs broke ranks and accused their chief, Eddie Gallagher, of murder—sucking them all into the biggest war crimes trial in a generation. Did a Navy SEAL cross the line in Iraq? Dan Taberski (“Running from COPS”) takes you inside that courtroom for the first time, peeling back the curtain on how America wages its wars now and revealing the story that the media covering the trial blew right past. Through intimate conversations with over 50 special operators, the series explores just how blurred the line between right and wrong has become in the forever wars—and what that’s doing to the hearts and minds of those we send to fight them. An Apple original podcast produced by JigSaw productions. Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts.
4/10/202142 minutes, 15 seconds
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How George Floyd’s family has felt watching Chauvin’s trial

Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth II, has died at 99. The Washington Post and the Guardian look back at his life. Today concludes the second week of testimony in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former police officer accused of murdering George Floyd. NBC spoke to Floyd’s nephew about the experience of rewatching his uncle’s death during the trial. And Vox explains why the trial is retraumatizing Black Americans. Brazil and India are making headlines as COVID-19 cases and deaths there grow. The Washington Post looks at what is fueling Brazil’s surge. And Bloomberg reports that it’s difficult to know if new variants are behind India’s case increase because the country is not doing thorough genetic-sequencing. When a group of Navy SEALs accused their chief, Eddie Gallagher, of murder, it shined a spotlight on the secretive force. A new investigative podcast by Apple, The Line, explores the accusations against Gallagher, the subsequent trial, and what the story says about problems in SEAL culture. A subatomic particle is challenging one of the most watertight theories in science. National Geographic has details about an experiment that could transform our understanding of how the universe works.
4/9/20219 minutes, 56 seconds
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How racism has shaped our highways for decades

The Biden administration is telling Texas to pause a highway expansion that activists say would displace more than a thousand homes and businesses in Black and Hispanic communities. Politico explains why the intervention is such a big deal. And NPR looks at how road projects have been used for decades to isolate, displace, and marginalize communities of color. China has become the first major economy to create its own digital currency. The Wall Street Journal explains what this means and how it could impact American security. Amanda Mull at the Atlantic explores how the beauty industry is preparing for a boom this summer from Americans eager to look good when they leave lockdown. Yahoo Answers is shutting down after 15 years. The Verge reflects on why so many people loved it. And BuzzFeed lists some of the funniest questions posed.
4/8/20217 minutes, 41 seconds
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One woman’s struggle to escape from a Chinese detention camp

For years, China has been forcing ethnic minorities from the Xinjiang region into what it calls political-reeducation camps. The New Yorker provides an in-depth look at the harsh conditions in these camps through the experience of one woman who escaped to tell her story. More and more Americans are falling behind on car payments. The Wall Street Journal reports on an emerging crisis. Billions of cicadas will soon crawl out of the ground and loudly swarm across parts of the country. The Washington Post lays out the facts about these unusual insects. The pandemic has caused yet another product shortage: ketchup packets. The Wall Street Journal explains why prices have risen by 13 percent and what that means for your fries.
4/7/20219 minutes, 12 seconds
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How the pandemic is hurting the oldest and youngest workers

The Minneapolis police chief’s testimony was one of the biggest moments of the Derek Chauvin murder trial so far. NBC explains why. Despite some promising recent signs for the job market, many workers are struggling, especially those at the beginning and end of their careers. NPR notes that the youth unemployment rate is almost double the national average. And the Wall Street Journal looks at the large number of workers aged 55 and older who have dropped out of the workforce. ESPN reports on Baylor’s surprise win in the NCAA men’s basketball final, which ended Gonzaga’s dreams of an undefeated season. For decades, television viewers have complained that commercials are too loud. Insider details why we’re still dealing with the same problem. Many of us have taken up new hobbies in the pandemic, such as making bread, playing chess, or doing jigsaw puzzles. CNN turned to historians for perspective about which newly popular pastimes could remain a hit once COVID is under control.
4/6/202110 minutes, 24 seconds
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The wild finishes of a March Madness like no other

Public-health experts are warning of the potential for a fourth wave of COVID-19 in the U.S. The Atlantic explains why doctors need Americans to keep taking precautions until more people are vaccinated. Texans are still dealing with the aftermath of power failures during the cold snap. An analysis by the Houston Chronicle shows deaths are double the official state numbers. And Texas Monthly reports on Houston residents who are still without running water. Bleacher Report has the story of Stanford’s NCAA women’s basketball championship win over Arizona. In the men’s final, Gonzaga and Baylor face off Monday night. The Washington Post has more. Coffee may be able to help renew rainforests. National Geographic reveals surprising new research on what happens when forests get a big dose of caffeine.
4/5/20218 minutes, 15 seconds
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The Derek Chauvin trial: “I believe I witnessed a murder”

Today marks the end of the first week in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer who is accused of murdering George Floyd. NPR offers a recap of yesterday’s witness testimony. Dozens of business leaders are speaking out against Georgia’s recently passed voting laws, which critics say could make it harder for people of color to vote. The Wall Street Journal looks at how corporate America is playing a bigger role in the fight over voting access. Reuters reports on a deadly train crash that has killed dozens in Taiwan.  How do animals find their way around, sometimes to destinations thousands of miles away? The New Yorker’s Kathryn Shultz explores the fascinating science behind animal navigation.
4/2/202110 minutes, 5 seconds
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What everyone got wrong about legal marijuana

A growing number of Americans are getting COVID shots, and states and private companies are racing to help launch vaccine passports. Vox explains what you need to know and the Washington Post reports on how this is becoming a political flashpoint. New York is the latest state to legalize recreational marijuana. New York Magazine’s the Intelligencer breaks down the plan. And NPR’s Planet Money looks at how pot legalization has played out nationally in the last decade. There’s a growing field of apps that promise access to therapy from your smartphone. But Molly Fischer writes in New York Magazine that these companies could be selling unrealistic expectations. The Louvre has digitized its massive art collection for anyone to access for free. NPR has the story.
4/1/20218 minutes, 4 seconds
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GOP star Gaetz under investigation, denies sex allegations

Today, President Biden is expected to reveal the first phase of his multitrillion-dollar infrastructure plan. The Washington Post has details of the package, and looks at the long road ahead to making it a reality. Republican congressman Matt Gaetz is reportedly under investigation over whether he had a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl and paid for her to travel with him. Gaetz denied the allegations to Axios and claimed in a Fox News interview that they were an attempt to thwart a separate investigation into an extortion plot against him. The Supreme Court will hear arguments today in a case that could shape the future of college sports. ESPN explains what’s at stake. For those working from home, returning to the office might mean giving up some perks. The Wall Street Journal looks at something many people will miss: naps.
3/31/20219 minutes, 53 seconds
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Chauvin murder case reignites debate over televised trials

As Derek Chauvin faces murder charges over the death of George Floyd, the whole trial will be streamed live, a first in Minnesota. BBC News explains how the high-profile nature of this trial has reignited a debate about the role of TV cameras in the courtroom. Transgender Americans and their families are worried about a push by Republican legislators to restrict access to school sports. NPR reports on recent state laws and Vox takes a in-depth look at the larger movement. And Masha Gessen argues in the New Yorker that the true motivation of these campaigns is to make transgender athletes invisible. The stuck container ship in the Suez Canal drew our attention to the role such vessels play in global commerce. Wired looks into why containers are falling into the sea at alarming rates. Major League Baseball’s Opening Day is Thursday. And this year, the league is on the lookout for pitchers playing dirty by smearing stuff like pine tar on baseballs to make them harder to hit. The Wall Street Journal reports on how officials are launching a CSI-style program to catch cheats.
3/30/20219 minutes, 45 seconds
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Opening statements begin in trial over George Floyd’s death

The Suez Canal traffic jam is on its way to getting solved. Bloomberg reports on progress in moving the giant container ship. Derek Chauvin faces charges of second- and third-degree murder, as well as second-degree manslaughter. While few observers believe issues of race and justice won't shape the trial, the Washington Post explains why it’s unclear whether race will be addressed head-on in the courtroom itself. Myanmar saw its deadliest day of protests since its military took control of the government about two months ago. The Washington Post spoke with one woman in Myanmar who is the wife of a soldier and active member of the resistance. It’s the final day for Amazon workers in Bessemer, Alabama, to vote on whether to join a union. Time lays out what’s at stake. The New Yorker looks at how important and unusual this battle is. And though Republicans aren’t usually fans of union drives, Senator Marco Rubio writes an op-ed in USA Today supporting the warehouse workers. A recent email from a furniture company to hundreds of customers turned into a reply-all-pocalypse with a happy ending. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
3/29/202111 minutes, 16 seconds
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Meet the crack team fighting to free the Suez container ship

Dredgers, tugboats, helicopters, and a legendary team of salvage experts: Bloomberg News reports on the Herculean effort to free the giant container ship stuck in the Suez Canal. Gas prices are rising and could go even higher during the summer, energy-market watchers say. The Wall Street Journal explains the factors behind the surge. Facebook is working on a version of Instagram for children under 13. The Washington Post looks into why social-media companies are focusing on younger kids. How does aging wine in outer space affect its taste? The Times of London has the results of an experiment that saw prized Bordeaux blasted into orbit.
3/26/20219 minutes, 31 seconds
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Republicans and Democrats fight to reshape how America votes

Democrats and Republicans are in a battle to reshape voting rights in this country. CNN looks at the fight in Congress over a sweeping bill. The Guardian examines how these issues are playing out at the state level. Virginia has abolished the death penalty. The Appeal gives some context about the move and looks at changing views about capital punishment nationally. Digital artist Beeple has been selling his work as NFTs for tens of millions of dollars. The New Yorker explores what this means for the art world. There’s a new pasta shape: cascatelli. Dan Pashman, who hosts the food podcast The Sporkful, talks with NPR about his three-year mission to create it.
3/25/202110 minutes, 8 seconds
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Megan Rapinoe takes fight for equal pay to Congress

The experiences of multiple U.S. administrations has showed how difficult it is to manage immigration at the southern border. The Washington Post looks at approaches taken by previous presidents, and what the Biden administration is trying to do now. Today is Equal Pay Day, and soccer star Megan Rapinoe will testify in Congress about the fight for the women’s national team to get the same pay and benefits as the men’s. Sports Illustrated looks at recent developments in the legal battle and ESPN provides background. On an Instagram account highlighting Christian leaders with expensive fashion tastes, Ben Kirby taps into the question: Is it OK to get rich while preaching? The Washington Post has the story. The average price of building a home in the U.S. has gone up by $24,000 over the past year. Quartz explains that this is partly because a beetle infestation damaged millions of acres of forest in Canada, which helped drive a rise in the cost of lumber.
3/24/20219 minutes, 15 seconds
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Can your boss make you get a COVID vaccine?

Ten people are dead, including a police officer, after a shooting at a supermarket in Boulder, Colorado. CNN reports. The Wall Street Journal looks at legal questions facing workers and managers about requirements to get COVID vaccines. Last night, the city council of Evanston, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, voted to pay reparations to Black residents for historical housing-discrimination. The Washington Post reports on the nation’s first government reparations program for Black people. Doctors are concerned about a spike in cases of alcoholic liver disease among younger women that started before the pandemic and may be intensifying. NPR looks at the research. The two cousins behind the company that provides the bulk of America’s COVID-19 swabs despise each other. Bloomberg Businessweek has the story of how family drama got tied up with the national effort to boost testing.
3/23/202110 minutes, 2 seconds
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Capitol attack reveals extremists in police ranks

The Department of Justice may seek sedition charges against some of those who stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6. Evidence points to a carefully planned plot, executed with military training. The insurrection has revealed a number of law-enforcement officers and former members of the military who take part in extremist behavior: According to an analysis from USA Today, 43 of the 324 people who’ve been arrested so far are military veterans, current or former police officers, or public-safety workers. Spring breakers continue to wreak havoc in Miami. The Miami Herald writes that crowds have been so “violently rowdy” that restaurants have had to close down. And CNN reports that police have made more than 1,000 arrests since February 3. The pandemic has led to a housing boom for white-collar Americans, with prices reaching peaks not seen since 2006. The Wall Street Journal explains why it’s getting easier for wealthy people to buy second homes. Oral Roberts University made history on Sunday, becoming only the second 15th-seeded team to advance to the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. CBS Sports has the story. It was part of a weekend of upsets that ruined fan predictions: Marketwatch says no perfect brackets remained out of the 20 million filled out online. And Yahoo Sports reports that COVID-19 forced Virginia Commonwealth University to exit the tournament before playing its first game.
3/22/20219 minutes, 9 seconds
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Why hate-crime cases rarely make it to court

Many people want the murders in Georgia — where six of the victims were women of Asian descent — to be called a hate crime. But the decision to do so comes down to a strict legal definition that isn't employed very often by law enforcement. Time breaks it down. The filibuster is back in the news this week after President Biden signaled that he’s open to changing Senate rules. Historians explain in the Washington Post how the filibuster has been used over the decades to deny fundamental rights to Black people. A political war over meat is playing out in two states. Politico looks at the conservative backlash the Democratic governor of Colorado has faced after encouraging people to avoid eating meat on March 20, or “MeatOut Day.” And the Guardian highlights the governor of Nebraska’s response: to declare the same date “Meat on the Menu Day.” March Madness is officially underway. And ESPN says Jalen Suggs and Paige Bueckers are two players you should watch during the men’s and women’s tournaments, not just because of their skills, but because of their close, lifelong friendship.
3/19/20218 minutes, 6 seconds
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Calls for action on anti-Asian hate after Georgia killings

Asian-American communities are calling for more action after the killings in Georgia, in which most of the victims were women of Asian descent. The shootings have intensified fears about increased anti-Asian violence during the pandemic. The Washington Post and CNBC have more. Ohio’s attorney general is suing the Biden administration over the COVID-relief bill and rules about whether states can use federal money to offset tax cuts. Bloomberg News explains the debate, and the Washington Post reports on how other Republican attorneys general are challenging the provision. The pandemic could permanently change the college-admissions process. The Wall Street Journal looks at the widespread impact of a move by many schools to allow applications without standardized test scores. The apes at your local zoo might be in line for a vaccination. NPR highlights research into ways to protect animals from COVID-19, including an experimental vaccine the San Diego Zoo is giving to its gorillas, bonobos, and orangutans.
3/18/20218 minutes, 26 seconds
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When will kids get COVID-19 vaccines?

Children are now taking part in trials of COVID-19 vaccines. National Geographic and the Wall Street Journal explain how the testing works for kids. The Washington Post reports on the deadly shootings at Atlanta-area massage parlors. Is America’s tax code racist? Bloomberg Businessweek profiles a woman who spent decades answering that question. A chunk of dirt from a long-forgotten Cold War mission is revealing surprising new information about our planet. The Washington Post has the story.
3/17/20218 minutes, 18 seconds
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Biden’s plan to raise taxes on the wealthy

The $1.9 trillion coronavirus-relief bill is just one of many big plans the Biden administration is hoping to push through. Bloomberg News reports that, in order to help fund the president’s agenda, his administration is planning the first major federal tax increase since 1993. And the Washington Post breaks down how corporate taxes might change. New York magazine takes a deeply reported look into the behavior of New York governor Andrew Cuomo. The Biden administration is planning a new advertising blitz to encourage Americans to get vaccinated. Stat reports on the $1.5 billion campaign. And the Washington Post sat in on a focus group of vaccine-hesitant Trump voters to understand what could convince them to get a COVID-19 shot. Spring break is here, which means Florida is filling up with college students, despite warnings to stay away due to the coronavirus. CBS News looks at how one community is trying to shut down the party.
3/16/20219 minutes, 44 seconds
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Stimulus checks arrive in America’s bank accounts

Millions of Americans are starting to receive money from the COVID-relief bill. NPR and New York Magazine’s the Cut spoke with people about how they are spending the money. The Biden administration has ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help with the growing number of unaccompanied children arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border. CBS News looks at what’s happening and the Washington Post explains who the minors are. As March Madness returns following its cancellation last year, CBS Sports breaks down the technology the NCAA is using to track basketball players and control the spread of the coronavirus. There are new developments in the long-running debate over daylight saving time. CNET reports on a bipartisan group of U.S. senators who want an end to the biannual clock change. An op-ed in the Chicago Tribune argues for keeping the custom, while an L.A. Times editorial says, “Dump the clock-changing foolishness.”
3/15/20218 minutes, 39 seconds
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A year into the pandemic, when will life return to normal?

Apple News Today talks to Alexis Madrigal, co-founder of the COVID Tracking Project at the Atlantic. Madrigal explains how data failures deeply hindered the U.S. government’s pandemic response. Plus, when we can expect life to return to normal.
3/12/202111 minutes, 28 seconds
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“This is going to be so bad.” The journalist who saw the pandemic coming.

The World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic one year ago. But Stat reporter Helen Branswell saw the global health crisis coming months in advance. Branswell sits down with Duarte Geraldino to discuss the early signs of the pandemic and why world leaders didn’t take action sooner.
3/11/202111 minutes, 17 seconds
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For women promised more, a year that “shattered our reality”

Since the start of the pandemic, more than 2.3 million women have left the workforce. In January, women’s participation in the labor force hit its lowest level since 1988. In the latest episode of a special series, Shumita Basu talks with Jen Gann, features editor at New York Magazine’s the Cut, about the toll the pandemic has taken on women.
3/10/202112 minutes, 57 seconds
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Black Americans & COVID-19: The impact of racism on the body

Duarte Geraldino talks with journalist Akilah Johnson about her reporting on COVID-19 and its disproportionate impact on Black Americans. Johnson spent much of the pandemic covering health care at ProPublica and is now at the Washington Post. To understand why the disease hit Black Americans so hard, she says, you have to start with the tale of John Henry. It’s part of our special series marking one year since the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic.
3/9/202111 minutes, 56 seconds
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The Pandemic Year: “I want this virus to die inside me”

March 11 marks one year since the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic. In a special series, Apple News Today is speaking with journalists who’ve done exceptional work covering the subject over the past 12 months. In the first episode, Shumita Basu talks with Eli Saslow, the Washington Post reporter behind the series Voices From the Pandemic. Saslow shares stories of lives that have been impacted by COVID-19, and discusses how much more interconnected we are as a result of this public-health crisis.
3/8/202113 minutes, 10 seconds
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The Pandemic Year: Special Series Preview

3/5/20211 minute, 53 seconds
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It’s Amazon vs. unions. These workers will decide who wins.

Following a string of high-profile attacks on Asian Americans, two writers go beyond the headlines to look at the long history of anti-Asian racism and violence in the United States. Connie Wun writes for Elle and Harmeet Kaur for CNN.  Employees at an Amazon fulfillment center in Alabama are deciding whether to form a union. Bloomberg News went to the town and spoke with workers on all sides of the debate. Elle looks at a wedding in Maine that became a COVID-19 superspreader event linked with nearly 200 infections and seven deaths.
3/5/20217 minutes, 32 seconds
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Is Biden letting the world’s dictators off the hook?

The House canceled Thursday’s session after the U.S. Capitol Police warned of a possible plot by a militant group to attack the building. The Washington Post has more.  Critics say President Biden isn’t being tough enough with the world’s authoritarian regimes. In the New Yorker, Robin Wright argues that Biden’s actions against Saudi Arabia fall short. Her colleague Masha Gessen writes that U.S. measures taken against Russia are also lacking. COVID-19 vaccines may be a major scientific breakthrough, but they rely on a technology invented over 170 years ago: the hypodermic needle. The Wall Street Journal reports on high-tech efforts to develop new ways of administering vaccines. Mars has captured the human imagination for centuries. In National Geographic, Nadia Drake asks: Why are people so obsessed with the red planet?
3/4/20219 minutes, 33 seconds
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Two developments are transforming the U.S. pandemic debate

As COVID-19 vaccine production ramps up in America, some state governors are lifting pandemic restrictions even as the CDC warns against reopening too fast. CNN looks at the tension between state and federal leaders. After the deep freeze, Vox explains how many Texans, and people in nearby states, are still dealing with damage done to water supplies. Shipping companies are using James Bond–like measures to protect COVID-19 vaccine shipments, including armed guards, panic buttons, and kill switches. Bloomberg Businessweek has the story. Germans have coined more than 1,200 new words to describe living in the pandemic. The Washington Post reviews this jawbreaking lexicon.
3/3/20218 minutes, 4 seconds
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Maybe America’s love for pro sports is wildly exaggerated

Today, the Supreme Court will hear two election-law cases that may decide the fate of the landmark Voting Rights Act. Vox’s legal expert Ian Millhiser breaks it all down. Some of the the biggest pro sporting events have seen big drops in ratings during the pandemic. In the Atlantic, Jemele Hill argues that Americans aren’t as crazy about sports as we’ve been led to believe. Should Washington, D.C., become the 51st state? The Washington Post reports that lawmakers in at least nine states have taken formal steps to either support or oppose D.C. statehood. The Post also answers key questions about this debate. It’s time to get to work on your taxes. Like so many other things, the pandemic has made the process even more complicated. Apple News has a guide to this very unusual tax season.
3/2/20219 minutes, 37 seconds
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The sexual-harassment allegations against Governor Cuomo

Two former aides have accused New York governor Andrew Cuomo of sexual harassment. NBC News has the latest on the allegations, his response, and the coming investigation. More and more civilians are taking part in tactical-training courses in which they learn how to shoot to kill. Rachel Monroe recently took some of these courses, typically taken by law enforcement and military personnel, and wrote about her experience for Wired. On top of treating people with COVID-19, doctors and nurses are also working day and night to stop misinformation spreading online. The Washington Post has the story. In his new book, A World Without Email, computer scientist Cal Newport looks at what scientific research says about why email makes us miserable and how to change for the better. The New Yorker has an excerpt.
3/1/20218 minutes, 43 seconds
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Trump speech to kick off fight for the GOP’s soul

The Conservative Political Action Conference features the biggest stars in the GOP — the people who might lead the party in the future. NPR reports that this year, it’s still all about Donald Trump. A Politico analysis says potential Republican presidential candidates will have to decide whether to run as Trump Ultra, Trump Lite, or Trump Zero. President Biden is making important new moves in the Middle East, launching airstrikes against Iran-backed militias and shifting to a new diplomatic approach with Saudi Arabia. CNN looks at the state of play in Iran, while the Wall Street Journal covers the Saudi developments. The Philippines is offering nurses to European countries in exchange for vaccines. Vice reports that many nurses don’t appreciate being treated as tradable commodities. The Golden Globes are Sunday night, and this year there’s controversy involving race, power, and ethics. The L.A. Times reports on how the organization that gives out the awards is under scrutiny for its lack of diversity and accusations of bad conduct.
2/26/20219 minutes, 49 seconds
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South Dakota AG refuses to step down after deadly crash

Tomorrow, an FDA advisory committee meets to review the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine and decide whether to grant it emergency authorization. Brown University School of Public Health dean Dr. Ashish Jha explains to NPR why he’s telling his family to take it if that’s what’s offered. The pressure is rising for South Dakota’s top law-enforcement officer to step down after he hit and killed a man while driving last September. Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg said he thought he struck a deer. The Sioux Falls Argus Leader lays out the facts and the unanswered questions.  There’s a huge difference between the generational wealth of white Americans versus people of color, with significant implications for retirements. The Wall Street Journal analyzes a quarter century of data and finds the gap is getting wider and wider.  The Athletic explores the growing popularity of virtual sports-cards and why some are selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars apiece.
2/25/202110 minutes, 13 seconds
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How Capitol security failed to stop the insurrection

For the first time since the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, key officials who were in charge of security that day have testified before Congress. The Washington Post reports that one big question raised at the hearing was whether domestic terror is taken as seriously as foreign threats. Politico reports on Democratic claims of a double standard for Biden cabinet nominees that affects women and people of color. Online coaches are pushing the idea that positive thinking can help people “manifest” their way into making more money. Cosmopolitan reports that women, who’ve been hit especially hard by the pandemic, are the main target. Fast-food companies are cutting less-popular items to streamline their menus during the pandemic. The Wall Street Journal highlights the elaborate campaigns people are mounting online to bring back personal favorites.
2/24/20218 minutes, 42 seconds
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Rich countries corner global vaccine supply

International agreements are to make sure all countries have equitable access to vaccines. But Vox argues that the U.S. and other wealthy countries need to do more. One obstacle to fair distribution is price transparency: NPR looks at why many developing countries are paying much higher prices for doses. Since Election Day, at least six Facebook employees have resigned while calling out the company’s leaders for failing to address the spread of misinformation and hate speech on the platform. BuzzFeed News reports on former employees who say Facebook’s leadership is working against its own content-moderation policies. In 1955, Black teen Claudette Colvin was arrested for refusing to give up her bus seat in Montgomery, Alabama, 10 months before Rosa Parks got national attention for a similar act of civil disobedience. Colvin spoke with CNN for a new series called “History Refocused.” Yesterday, electronic-music duo Daft Punk announced they’re calling it quits. GQ takes a look at the iconic group’s influence on music and culture. And the L.A. Times looks at their 10 greatest moments.
2/23/202110 minutes, 52 seconds
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How America can learn from its pandemic mistakes

The United States is near half a million deaths from COVID-19, the most in the world. Politico writes that while this crisis has exposed some of the deepest flaws in our public-health system, it has also revealed possibilities for improvements going forward. Merrick Garland, who was previously snubbed for a Supreme Court seat, has been tapped by President Biden for the role of attorney general. NPR breaks down Garland’s legal background. And the Guardian explains that he will be taking over the Department of Justice during a difficult moment. The freezing conditions that left millions of Texans without electricity and safe drinking water also impacted migrants on the border. The Guardian reports on the dangers for those seeking to enter the U.S. And the Washington Post looks at Biden’s immigration moves so far. Online learning means college students have new opportunities to cheat while taking tests from home. Forbes reveals how some are using an online service called Chegg to access answers on demand. 
2/22/202111 minutes, 48 seconds
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The political fallout from the winter energy crisis in Texas

The blackouts in Texas have led to significant political fallout. CNBC looks at the claims politicians are making and the facts about the outage. Many Republicans are working to make upcoming elections a referendum on reopening schools. Political reporter Dave Weigel writes for the Washington Post on why the GOP sees this issue as a key way to speak to suburban voters. In one small Brazilian city, an unusual experiment is taking place that may provide key insights about how to bring the pandemic to an end. The Wall Street Journal has the story about this first-of-its-kind study. New York Magazine is out with a profile of rising-star director Chloé Zhao, whose film Nomadland comes out today.
2/19/20219 minutes, 55 seconds
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U.S. life expectancy falls by entire year as pandemic rages

The crisis is not over in Texas, as power outages and brutal weather continue to have a broad impact. The Texas Tribune looks at how people are suffering from food shortages and the loss of clean drinking water. Life expectancy in America dropped by an entire year over the first six months of 2020. Bloomberg News looks at new CDC data that captures some the realities of the pandemic in hard numbers, including large racial disparities. Even after the economic crisis has ended, certain jobs will probably be gone for good. The Washington Post explains why this is happening and what it means for the future of the U.S. economy. NASA is preparing to land a rover on Mars. Vox explains how this high-stakes, complex mission is supposed to work.
2/18/20219 minutes, 14 seconds
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Are New York and California turning on their governors?

New York governor Andrew Cuomo and California governor Gavin Newsom drew praise early in the pandemic but have recently come under criticism. Bloomberg News looks at why their popularity has taken a turn for the worse. And the Wall Street Journal looks at the impact on Cuomo’s approval ratings. Conservative organizations raised hundreds of millions of dollars to support baseless challenges to the presidential election results. The Washington Post has the story of one major donor who wants his money back. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures are gripping many parts of the United States. Texas is having a particularly hard time, in part because of its strained power grid. Vox explains what’s gone wrong with the grid and why the state wasn’t more prepared.  Researchers are increasingly convinced of the therapeutic effects of spending time outside. The Wall Street Journal explains why some believe two hours a week in nature could be the new 10,000 steps per day.
2/17/202110 minutes, 21 seconds
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Have we turned a corner on COVID-19? Not yet.

For the first time in months, average new daily coronavirus infections have fallen below 100,000 in the United States. The Washington Post looks at possible reasons for this decline. And NPR speaks with an epidemiologist who warns that the country still has a long road ahead. A Marshall Project investigation into the use of police dogs finds a city where they are regularly unleashed against Black teens. A record-breaking wave of extreme cold has turned deadly and is threatening COVID-19 vaccination progress. USA Today looks at the impact. Even with bars closed and no parade, folks in New Orleans are finding ways to celebrate Mardi Gras. The Washington Post describes how some residents are decorating their homes as parade floats, in the first “Yardi Gras.”
2/16/202110 minutes, 8 seconds
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Trump’s legal challenges are just getting started

Donald Trump was acquitted by the Senate for a second time this weekend, but his legal troubles may just be beginning. CNN has a roundup of his post-impeachment legal challenges. And Vox looks at recent developments in Trump investigations in Georgia and New York. Today, former Nigerian finance minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala becomes the first African and first woman to lead the World Trade Organization. Politico breaks down the challenges she is facing during a tumultuous period of global trade. And Okonjo-Iweala tells Time that among her biggest priorities will be the role of the WTO in combating climate change and addressing the coronavirus pandemic. Attacks against Asian Americans are on the rise, including in the San Francisco Bay Area. NPR spoke with the executive director of the Asian Pacific Policy and Planning Council, which has documented nearly 3,000 incidents of attacks against anti-Asian from across the country since the pandemic began last March. And NBC News reports on recent actions by the Biden administration to tackle this issue. In 2019, Taylor Swift announced that she would rerecord and rerelease her back catalog. On Friday, she dropped her new version of “Love Story,” and the song has already topped the U.S. iTunes chart. The Atlantic explains why this enterprise is such a savvy business move.
2/15/202111 minutes, 26 seconds
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Trump’s team makes his case

Today, Donald Trump’s defense team make their case in the Senate impeachment trial. Axios breaks down the arguments we can expect to hear. The Washington Post explores the history behind Trump’s First Amendment defense. And the Hill says many Republicans have already signaled that their minds are made up. Two companies that make voting machines have filed multimillion-dollar antidefamation lawsuits against the likes of Fox News and Rudy Giuliani. The Washington Post explains how repeated falsehoods about voting irregularities have damaged trust in these companies. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi wants to give 300 million people a COVID-19 vaccine by mid-summer. NPR reports that the plan is being called the biggest and most ambitious vaccination drive in the world.  Today, Donald Trump’s defense team make their case in the Senate impeachment trial. Axios breaks down the arguments we can expect to hear. The Washington Post explores the history behind Trump’s First Amendment defense. And the Hill says many Republicans have already signaled that their minds are made up. Two companies that make voting machines have filed multimillion-dollar antidefamation lawsuits against the likes of Fox News and Rudy Giuliani. The Washington Post explains how repeated falsehoods about voting irregularities have damaged trust in these companies. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi wants to give 300 million people a COVID-19 vaccine by mid-summer. NPR reports that the plan is being called the biggest and most ambitious vaccination drive in the world.  The pandemic has been a huge motivator for people to declutter their homes and give away old household items on free-stuff forums. The Wall Street Journal writes about the wide variety of items posted on these pages.
2/12/202111 minutes, 8 seconds
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“They would’ve killed Mike Pence”: impeachment day 2

Yesterday, House impeachment managers revealed new information about the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. The Washington Post has key takeaways, including previously unseen footage of the attack. Can businesses pay their employees to get a COVID-19 vaccine? Bloomberg Law spoke with employment attorneys who explain why this is a legal grey-area. Several state lawmakers across the country have introduced legislation to stop schools from referencing the New York Times’ 1619 Project. USA Today and the 19th break down what’s in these bills and the debate about teaching American history. Players and fans of Major League Baseball have wondered for years if changes in the way the balls are constructed were leading to more home runs. Sports Illustrated speaks to a scientist who acquired balls from a clandestine network inside MLB, sliced them open, and found some interesting tweaks to their design.
2/11/202112 minutes, 35 seconds
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To understand Trump’s impeachment trial, start with April 7

On day two of Donald Trump’s impeachment trial, NPR has a detailed timeline of events, showing the groundwork that led to the Capitol insurrection was laid far in advance. A dysfunctional sense of smell is common for people with COVID-19. Many are still struggling with it months after first getting sick. The L.A. Times spoke with patients who are suffering and the doctors and scientists who are trying to help. The internet might be able to predict breakups months in advance. The Times of London wrote about a study analyzing online posts and how the language people used subtly changed just before their relationships ended.
2/10/202110 minutes, 44 seconds
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What it’s like to face a $1 million COVID hospital bill

Former president Donald Trump’s lawyers will argue the Senate cannot constitutionally try him now that he is out of office. J. Michael Luttig, a former federal appeals court judge, agrees with this impeachment argument in a Washington Post piece. Chuck Cooper, a top conservative lawyer, offers a counterargument in the Wall Street Journal. Patricia Mason got sick with COVID-19 in March last year. She is now out of the hospital and dealing with the aftermath, including part of a medical bill that topped $1 million. The L.A. Times brings us Mason’s story. Several states are allowing more people to gather indoors. ProPublica spoke with scientists who explain why they think this is a bad idea. A series of class-action lawsuits is focusing on whether products use real vanilla flavoring. The Wall Street Journal has the story of vanilla getting its day in court.
2/9/202110 minutes
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The arguments for and against convicting Trump

The impeachment trial of former president Donald Trump starts tomorrow. CNN has a preview of arguments each side will make. In the New Yorker, Harvard law professor Jeannie Suk Gersen lays out the trial’s risks for Democrats. President Biden says pandemic school-closures are a “national emergency.” The Houston Chronicle looks at how Texas schools are considering extra weeks of class to help students catch up. HuffPost explains how parents of children with disabilities are especially concerned about their children falling behind. Democrats are proposing expanded childhood tax credits. The Washington Post breaks down their plan. Tom Brady led Tampa Bay to a win over Kansas City, the quarterback’s seventh Super Bowl win. USA Today football columnist Mike Jones examines Brady’s impact.
2/8/20218 minutes, 22 seconds
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Democrats strip Marjorie Taylor Greene from committees

Democratic Senators moved ahead on a COVID-relief bill without Republicans in an overnight session. The Washington Post has key details. House Democrats voted to strip Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene of her committee assignments. Politico explains how each political party is navigating this moment. Vox and USA Today look at current data and guidance related to COVID-19 vaccinations and pregnancy. Russia’s announcement that its COVID-19 vaccine, called Sputnik V, is highly effective, was met with some skepticism in the international community. The New Yorker’s Joshua Yaffa reports on the vaccine’s development and impact. The Super Bowl is Sunday and the stadium will be mostly empty because of pandemic concerns. Adweek explains why the situation is a camera crew’s dream, and says it could mean one of the best at-home viewing experiences ever.
2/5/202110 minutes, 36 seconds
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Roadblocks emerge in Democratic drive for $15 minimum wage

Raising the federal minimum wage to $15 is a key measure in Democrats’ pandemic-stimulus package, which they are aiming to pass through budget reconciliation. Politico breaks down why that may or may not be possible. More information is coming out about the people who participated in the Capitol insurrection and the forces that influenced them. In his latest piece for the New Yorker, Ronan Farrow profiles rioter Rachel Powell and how she became radicalized over a short period of time. The Washington Post spoke with ordinary investors who lost money following investment tips from Reddit on GameStop and other stocks. And in the Atlantic, Derek Thompson says that while individual traders may have thought they were sticking it to Wall Street, that’s not what really happened. Danielle Cohen writes for GQ about a recent trend of including pictures of COVID-19 vaccination cards in dating-app profiles. And CNN explains why the Better Business Bureau advises against posting pictures of these cards online.
2/4/20219 minutes, 35 seconds
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The Capitol rioters reveal a new type of American extremism

Democrats are moving forward to pass a COVID-19 relief bill through a process known as “budget reconciliation.” NPR explains how it works.  On the campaign trail, Biden promised a major overhaul of Trump’s immigration policies. But L.A. Times reporter Molly O’Toole writes that Biden’s early actions on immigration focus on reviewing Trump policies, and don’t yet undo all of them. A new analysis by counterterror experts in the Atlantic finds the Capitol riot was the product of a new kind of American extremism. Nobel Peace Prize nominations are in the news. CNN explains why it’s surprisingly easy to get nominated.
2/3/20218 minutes, 55 seconds
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Is it worth worrying about the national debt during COVID?

Republicans say Biden’s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 stimulus proposal will add too much to the national debt. Politico explains how the debate over debt is shifting. Many Wall Street investors and economists now say big spending is needed to help the economy and national debt concerns can wait.  Politico reports on the challenges Republicans face in figuring out the best way to deal with congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene and her history of making racist comments and promoting conspiracy theories. COVID-19 deaths are creating a generation of orphans. NBC News looks at the struggles of young people who have lost parents. The Super Bowl is marking the pandemic by paying tribute to heroes. NPR reports on Amanda Gorman, who will celebrate people who have made a difference by reciting a poem. And People Magazine reports that the NFL is also giving 7,500 tickets to health-care workers who’ve been vaccinated.
2/2/202110 minutes, 59 seconds
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Who could get stimulus checks and how big they might be

Ten Republican senators are proposing a $600 million plan as an alternative to President Biden’s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package. The Wall Street Journal explains the debate over stimulus checks. And the Washington Post cites research that says wealthier families barely spent the money they got from the earlier stimulus. The Biden administration is running into early obstacles as it pursues its vaccine-rollout goals. Politico breaks down how those challenges may set back the pandemic response. Myanmar’s military has seized power and detained the country’s democratically elected leader, Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. Bloomberg News reports on the first foreign-policy crisis of the new Biden administration. Scientists are tracking the synchronized rotation of a group of faraway planets. And it turns out their movements make interesting music. Forbes explains.
2/1/20218 minutes, 2 seconds
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Why it’s so hard to book vaccine appointments

By the end of this week, President Biden will have signed more than three dozen executive actions. Reuters analyzes growth in the use of presidential executive orders and assesses their impact. COVID-19 vaccine appointments are in short supply and high demand — and glitchy sign-up procedures in some areas are making them hard to get. The Wall Street Journal has a guide to how to get a vaccine in every state. The Guardian details how signing up is proving especially challenging for older Americans. The Washington Post spoke with a legendary vaccinologist who has been shocked at how hard it’s been to get himself vaccinated. The Wall Street Journal highlights 15 personal-finance lessons to take away from the pandemic.  Groundbreaking Black actor Cicely Tyson has died at 96. The Hollywood Reporter looks at her award-winning career. NPR recently interviewed Tyson about her memoir.
1/29/20219 minutes, 7 seconds
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Biden seeks to restore Obama’s health-care legacy

The Affordable Care Act, the Obama administration’s signature accomplishment, has survived four years of attempts to gut it. CNN reports on how President Biden, now president, is moving to bolster the law. And Quartz breaks down what Democrats could get done on health care with a slim majority in Congress. GameStop stock rose 1,555% in a month. That is definitely not normal. Vox explains how it happened. Protests in India are escalating as farmers rally against a recent change to agriculture laws. The Wall Street Journal looks at what’s behind these protests and their potential political impact.  Soon it won’t just be astronauts in space. NPR covers the first private mission to the International Space Station, which carries a $55 million per person price tag.
1/28/20218 minutes, 17 seconds
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The Democrat who could make or break Biden’s climate agenda

President Biden has big plans to tackle climate change. The Washington Post profiles West Virginia senator Joe Manchin, a conservative Democrat who could make or break Biden’s climate agenda. A tiny detail in the global supply chain is having a big impact on COVID-19 vaccine distribution. Reuters explains why a shortage of a special syringe is making the vaccine rollout harder. The Boston Globe is now allowing people to petition to have information about themselves removed or added to old stories about minor crimes or transgressions. The Washington Post explains why the Globe and other news outlets are addressing how past coverage may have hurt people of color. An Oklahoma lawmaker has introduced a bill to create a hunting season for Bigfoot. And Fox News reports that he is getting criticism from believers and nonbelievers alike.
1/27/20219 minutes, 33 seconds
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What to know about the new COVID-19 variants

New variants of COVID-19 are emerging. The Wall Street Journal breaks down what we know so far about them. A new analysis from NPR looks at 135 fatal police shootings of unarmed Black people, and finds that many of the officers involved took part in multiple shootings. Few faced charges. New moves to change voting rules could have major impact on future elections. Politico reports on Republican attempts to alter state election laws. And New York Magazine looks at how Democrats may try to make changes at the national level. The L.A. Times profiles Nia Dennis and what’s behind her viral new gymnastics routine, which features music by popular Black artists.
1/26/20218 minutes, 47 seconds
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McConnell’s big gamble with Trump impeachment

President Biden has promised that 100 million COVID-19 vaccine doses will be administered in his first 100 days in office. But, according to analysis by Bloomberg News, the U.S. was already more or less meeting that goal in the final days of the Trump administration. Fareed Zakaria argues in the Washington Post that Biden’s current goal is far too modest. Russians in more than 100 cities took to the streets this weekend in solidarity with jailed activist Alexei Navalny. For Al Jazeera, Leonid Ragozin looks into what he may be hoping to achieve. For the first time, a woman will be officiating at the Super Bowl. ESPN reports on Sarah Thomas.
1/25/20219 minutes, 33 seconds
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Where does the GOP go without Trump in the White House?

Many Republicans are asking where the party goes after the Trump presidency. Time looks at the internal debate and how the impeachment trial factors into it.  America’s income gap is widening during the pandemic. Bloomberg News explains why moves to deal with the economic slowdown are working out especially well for the richest Americans. COVID-19 vaccine distribution in the U.S. faces problems with inconsistent distribution and wasted doses. NBC News reports on how states are dealing with delays and shortages. ProPublica looks into wasted doses and the difficulty of tracking them. With every new administration, the Oval Office gets a little makeover. The Washington Post looks at the political symbolism behind President Biden’s design choices.
1/22/20219 minutes, 37 seconds
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President Biden moves quickly to undo Trump’s legacy

With over 400,000 Americans dead from the coronavirus, Joe Biden inherits a country with no clear plan to contain the pandemic. CBS News has details on a second round of executive orders aimed at providing targeted relief. And CNN takes a look at what it’s going to take to jumpstart a national vaccination plan. Politico reports on ongoing negotiations over how to run an evenly split Senate. And, in the Washington Post, former Senate leaders Trent Lott and Tom Daschle explain how they worked things out the last time the chamber had a 50-50 split. For the New Yorker, Robin Wright lays out the seven pillars of President Biden’s foreign policy. Vox breaks down Biden’s proposal to drastically overhaul U.S. immigration law.For the New Yorker, Robin Wright lays out the seven pillars of President Biden’s foreign policy. Vox breaks down Biden’s proposal to drastically overhaul U.S. immigration law. USA Today looks at the first U.S. case of COVID-19, confirmed one year ago this week. And in the Atlantic, Zeynep Tufekci and Jeremy Howard ask why high-quality masks are still so hard for Americans to find.
1/21/202110 minutes, 12 seconds
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Special Episode: Joe Biden is the 46th president of the United States

The Wall Street Journal recaps President Biden’s first message to the nation as president. Bloomberg News breaks down the many executive actions Biden planned for day one of his presidency. Poet Amanda Gorman read the inaugural poem. She spoke with NPR about her writing process.
1/20/202112 minutes, 28 seconds
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Can Joe Biden unite the nation?

The Wall Street Journal reports on President Trump’s final pardons, which include ones for his former political adviser Steve Bannon and rapper Lil Wayne. Ahead of President-elect Biden’s inauguration, NPR looks at inaugural addresses of past presidents who have taken office during challenging moments in history. The Washington Post discusses Biden’s Catholic faith and how he might use it to bring Americans together. CNN looks at Biden’s long history of riding Amtrak trains and what it says about his family, politics, past, and future. In the New Yorker, Amy Davidson Sorkin says Vice President-elect Harris’s husband, Doug Emhoff, embodies multiple firsts. And, in GQ, Emhoff writes about fostering a society where men supporting women at high levels of power is normal and expected.
1/20/202113 minutes, 43 seconds
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President Trump’s lasting impact on American policy

Politico reviewed 30 areas where President Trump has made major policy changes thatmany people may have missed. CNN analyzes how U.S. far-right groups might adapt following moves to deplatform them. And Vox explains why the decision to ban Trump from social-media sites led to a drop in online misinformation. CBS News reports that West Virginia is leading other states in its COVID-19 vaccination program. Even after deploying to the Capitol, National Guard Sergeant Jacob Kohut hasn’t stopped teaching elementary school music classes. The Washington Post has the story.
1/19/20219 minutes, 48 seconds
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Biden prepares a 10-day sprint

The Washington Post reports on the Biden administration’s plan to take immediate action against the coronavirus. Following the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, national-security reporter Spencer Ackerman argues in the Daily Beast that the U.S. should use existing anti-terror laws to fight domestic terrorism rather than create new ones. Cosmopolitan talks with some unlikely adopters of QAnon conspiracy theories: Instagram influencers. And Elle details how QAnon lies spread among suburban moms. As we honor Martin Luther King Jr., Anna Malaika Tubbs writes in Time about his mother, Alberta Williams King, and her own crucial role in the civil-rights movement.
1/18/20219 minutes, 13 seconds
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Biden’s agenda collides with Trump’s impeachment trial

Politico reports on how the Senate trial of Donald Trump could complicate the Biden administration’s efforts to move its agenda forward. For GQ Magazine, Wesley Lowery writes about convicted murderer Dustin Higgs, whom federal officials plan to execute. ProPublica reports on Black officers’ complaints about racism in the Capitol Police.  National Geographic explains the polar vortex that could bring extreme winter weather to the United States.
1/15/20217 minutes, 8 seconds
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Trump impeached again as states brace for more violence

After the impeachment vote, PBS NewsHour looks at what lies ahead for President Trump as the Senate prepares for a trial. The Washington Post reports that states are bracing for possible further violence from extremist groups. The Hill spoke with dozens of lawmakers who were in the Capitol during the insurrection and has a detailed account of what they experienced.  As more and more people get vaccinated, Vox says a return to normal life will likely come in three stages. And the Wall Street Journal explains why the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets are betting the future on an extremely complicated trade to get superstar James Harden.
1/14/20219 minutes, 38 seconds
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How the Republican tide has turned against Donald Trump

Politico reports that some congressional Republicans are backing impeachment. And the Washington Post explains the rift that has emerged between President Trump and Vice President Pence. The Wall Street Journal looks into several people who participated in the Capitol riots to paint a fuller picture of those who stormed the building. CNN explains the Trump administration’s new plan to distribute COVID-19 vaccines. In the Washington Post, doctors Robert Wachter and Ashish Jha argue that the United States should delay the vaccines’ second doses. The Atlantic talks to Rep. Jamie Raskin, who lost his son to suicide on New Year’s Eve and is now leading the case to impeach Trump.
1/13/20217 minutes, 57 seconds
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Capitol Police officers suspended for actions during attack

Politico reports on the Capitol Police officers suspended after a pro-Trump mob stormed the building. One was seen taking a selfie with a rioter. Another wore a Make America Great Again hat. Harvard professor Martin Puchner writes in the L.A. Times about parallels he sees between the current moment in the United States and the dark history of his home country, Germany.  The Washington Post breaks down how impeachment could work this time, as Democrats prepare to go through the process again for President Trump. CNN explains why U.S. intelligence agencies have to tell Congress what they know about UFOs.
1/12/20217 minutes, 36 seconds
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Democrats prepare to impeach Trump

Politico reports that Democrats agree that President Trump should be held accountable over the attack on the Capitol, but not on how to go about doing it. And the Wall Street Journal rounds up what Democrats have planned. The Washington Post lays out a detailed timeline of what happened during Wednesday’s attack. Evelyn Douek writes in the Atlantic that the removal of Trump’s social-media accounts demonstrates the sweeping authority that tech companies hold. Ronan Farrow writes for the New Yorker about the man seen infiltrating the Capitol carrying zip ties and a combat helmet, and how he was identified.
1/11/20219 minutes, 14 seconds
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Democrats call for Trump’s removal from office

National Geographic provides some historical background on the 25th Amendment. And Vox breaks down why invoking it is unlikely to work. The Washington Post explains the delayed response from the Department of Defense to the attack on Capitol Hill. ProPublica points out that Capitol law enforcement had plenty of warning ahead of the events that transpired on Wednesday. And Eddie Glaude, chair of Princeton University's Department of African American Studies, talks with NPR about about the discrepancy in how law enforcement treats different group of Americans.  The L.A. Times reports on the current COVID-19 crisis in Southern California hospitals. And the L.A. Times spends time with medical workers in a facility that ran out of ICU space two weeks ago. National Geographic provides some historical background on the 25th Amendment. And Vox breaks down why invoking it is unlikely to work. The Washington Post explains the delayed response from the Department of Defense to the attack on Capitol Hill. ProPublica points out that Capitol law enforcement had plenty of warning ahead of the events that transpired on Wednesday. And Eddie Glaude, chair of Princeton University's Department of African American Studies, talks with NPR about about the discrepancy in how law enforcement treats different group of Americans.  The L.A. Times reports on the current COVID-19 crisis in Southern California hospitals. And the L.A. Times spends time with medical workers in a facility that ran out of ICU space two weeks ago. After a photo went viral of Congressman Andy Kim cleaning up trash following Wednesday’s violence, GQ talked with the New Jersey Democrat, who reflected on the experience of being locked down inside the Capitol building.
1/8/202110 minutes, 48 seconds
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Congress confirms Biden win after mob storms Capitol

The Wall Street Journal reports on how Congress confirmed Joe Biden’s win after a pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol and disrupted the count. Analyses from Vox and the New Yorker look at actions by the president and his supporters that led up to the violence. CNN and the Washington Post report on international reactions to the violence and the message it sent to the rest of the world about the state of American democracy. After Democratic candidates won both runoff races in Georgia, the Wall Street Journal breaks down how the 50-50 split in the Senate will work. Russell Berman writes for the Atlantic about how the victories will benefit Biden during his time in office. And PBS NewsHour explains the challenges Biden faces.
1/7/202110 minutes, 41 seconds
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Warnock wins in Georgia, Democratic Senate control in sight

Democrat Raphael Warnock has won one of Georgia’s U.S. Senate runoff elections. Victory in the other race would give his party control of Congress. The Wall Street Journal has more. As Congress gathers to confirm President-elect Biden’s electoral victory, which some Republicans will challenge, a guide to what to expect today. USA Today reports that prosecutors won’t seek charges against the police officers involved in the shooting of Jacob Blake last summer in Kenosha, Wisconsin. When a California hospital’s vaccine freezer broke, medical workers raced against the clock to make sure the shots didn’t go to waste. The L.A. Times has the story.
1/6/202112 minutes, 6 seconds
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What Georgia’s elections mean for its political future

Politico reports that the runoffs in Georgia are shaping up as a first salvo in a 2022 rematch between Stacey Abrams and current Republican governor Brian Kemp. Fortune says the recently passed National Defense Authorization Act contains one of the most impactful pieces of legislation ever passed by Congress to fight corruption and tax evaders. For the New Yorker, Robyn Wright breaks down the challenges President-elect Biden will face when trying to renew diplomacy with Iran. NBC News talks with Jeopardy! executive producer Mike Richards about airing Alex Trebek’s final episodes this week.
1/5/20217 minutes, 51 seconds
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Trump caught on tape pressuring Georgia election official

The Washington Post has obtained a recording of President Trump pressuring Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to overturn the presidential election results in the state. And it reports on 12 Republican senators planning to object to confirming the results of the presidential election. The New Yorker lays out what Democrats would have to do to flip the two Senate seats in the Georgia runoff elections. The Wall Street Journal has stories of vaccine distribution issues in states around the country. And New York Magazine says the slow vaccine rollout is emblematic of the many problems the United States has experienced during the pandemic. According to reporting from the Washington Post, flight attendants trying to enforce mask-wearing rules during the pandemic have been cursed at, called names, berated, and taunted by passengers. And the L.A. Times reveals that passengers and airline workers with COVID-19 symptoms aren’t always kept off of flights. For Grub Street, Rachel Handler investigates the bucatini pasta shortage of 2020.
1/4/202111 minutes, 2 seconds
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It wasn’t all bad: A look back at good news from 2020

Apple News has collected the best good news stories of this year. The Washington Post profiles Peter Tsai, the inventor of the filter in N95 masks, who came out of retirement during the pandemic because he saw an urgent need for these masks. WNBA champion Maya Moore took time away from basketball to advocate for Jonathon Irons, a man wrongfully convicted of crime, to be released from prison. Slate has the story of Moore’s successful efforts and how the two fell in love. National Geographic highlights seven wins for the environment in 2020.  Salon explains a pandemic-era trend called Verzuz – a kind of DJ battle that happens over live video stream. The Washington Post shares some of their favorite front-pages from kids newspapers that popped up across the country this year. The Wall Street Journal reports on the breakthrough science that made the coronavirus vaccines possible.
12/24/202011 minutes, 7 seconds
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Trump slams stimulus bill, grants clemency to 20 people

The Washington Post spoke with White House insiders about President Trump’s surprise message last night that the spending and pandemic relief bills are not good enough. The Washington Post spoke with White House insiders about President Trump’s surprise message last night that the spending and pandemic relief bills are not good enough. Trump announced a slew of pardons and commutations last night. Politico breaks down who’s on the list.
12/23/20206 minutes, 43 seconds
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Inside the 5,593-page bill: pandemic relief, plus surprises

The Washington Post breaks down the surprising details in the 5,593-page spending bill just passed by Congress.  Jelani Cobb writes for the New Yorker about the roots of vaccine hesitancy among Black Americans. For the Atlantic, Ed Yong breaks down the scientific successes and setbacks of the COVID era.  National Geographic looks at the many forms the Christmas tree has taken at different points in history.
12/22/20209 minutes, 47 seconds
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Congress strikes a stimulus deal. Here’s what’s in it.

Congress has struck a deal for a new pandemic stimulus package. The Washington Post reports on what is inside. Answers to key questions about COVID-19 vaccines, from Stat and NPR. And CNBC explains the latest news out of the United Kingdom about a new strain of the virus. NBC News highlights the growing homelessness crisis in the United States during the pandemic. Tonight, Jupiter and Saturn will appear closer together in the night sky than at any time since the year 1226. CNN has tips on how to see them as they form a rare “Christmas star.”
12/21/20209 minutes, 39 seconds
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The Sackler family’s role in the opioid crisis

NPR reports on the billionaire Sackler family, which owns Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin. Members of the family appeared in front of a congressional committee. And Patrick Radden Keefe writes for the New Yorker about how the Sacklers have used their fortune to, so far, avoid criminal culpability for their role in the opioid crisis. As lawmakers near a potential coronavirus relief package, the Washington Post breaks down what might be in a final deal. The Wall Street Journal looks at the hack of the U.S. government. New information shows it is deeper and more sophisticated than initially thought. Popular Science explains what Dippin’ Dots can tell us about the COVID-19 vaccine.
12/18/20209 minutes, 19 seconds
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What does it mean to distribute a vaccine equitably?

California has made a commitment to distributing coronavirus vaccines equitably. NPR reports that some groups argue this means taking historical injustices into consideration. And the Guardian covers the debate over whether prisoners should be included in early distribution. Politico delivers good news: Some coronavirus vaccine vials hold extra doses that could expand the supply by as much as 40%. ProPublica and the New York Times Magazine take a deep dive into how Russia stands to benefit from a warming planet. The Atlantic is out with a piece about an uptick in Christmas tree purchases that seems to have caught the industry off guard.
12/17/20209 minutes, 3 seconds
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The fate of the Senate comes down to Georgia

Politico reports on why President-elect Biden is campaigning for Democrats in Georgia’s runoff election. And Politico also reveals that President Trump is using the Georgia race to fundraise for his own PAC. The Guardian dives into a recent report that found significant evidence that China may be forcing members of ethnic minority groups, including Uighurs, to pick cotton on a scale far greater than previously thought. The jihadi group Boko Haram claimed responsibility for kidnapping more than 300 schoolboys in Nigeria. The Wall Street Journal has the story. The Wall Street Journal says there are major delays to package deliveries, and warns that with the backlog only set to worsen, it’s past time to finish up online holiday shopping.
12/16/20209 minutes, 44 seconds
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Electoral College confirms Biden’s win as he calls for unity

The Washington Post reports on how some Republicans have started to acknowledge Joe Biden’s Electoral College victory. It also covers Bill Barr’s departure as attorney general. The Wall Street Journal says it could take two to five years for countries in the developing world to vaccinate a large percentage of their populations. Vice reporter Aaron Gordon breaks down America’s public transportation crisis. USA Today puts into perspective the 300,000 American lives lost to COVID-19.
12/15/20209 minutes, 12 seconds
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When is my turn? Is it safe? Vaccine questions answered.

The Washington Post provides us with answers to some common questions about the leading coronavirus vaccines. Today, the 538 members of the Electoral College meet to cast their votes for president of the United States. The Wall Street Journal breaks down how the process works and introduces us to some of this year’s electors. Politico says President Trump’s strategy to undermine the election results is being taken up by other Republicans. The Wall Street Journal reports on Cleveland’s Major League Baseball team moving to drop its controversial nickname.
12/14/20208 minutes, 37 seconds
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How new state laws could transform future elections

The Hill reports that many state legislatures are considering changes to election rules — in some cases ones that would make voting less accessible. NBC News looks at the latest federal execution, part of a series of death-penalty moves in the last days of the Trump administration. CNBC reports that China has promised its vaccines to many developing nations, and says some experts argue the goal may be to expand Chinese global influence. CNN highlights letters children have sent to the Postal Service’s Operation Santa program asking for help during a difficult year.
12/11/20208 minutes, 14 seconds
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The years of work that made COVID-19 vaccines possible

The Washington Post breaks down the science and research behind the leading coronavirus vaccines. Politico Magazine explains how Oklahoma became the state with the largest medical marijuana market in the United States. The Wall Street Journal reports on how the pandemic has slowed video-game production. Hanukkah begins tonight. A historian of American Jewish life writes in the Washington Post about how the holiday came to be an annual celebration at the White House.
12/10/20209 minutes, 39 seconds
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Why there’s no new pandemic stimulus? A fight over lawsuits.

The Washington Post explains a key sticking point in coronavirus stimulus negotiations: liability shields. After conducting a nationwide survey of health officials, USA Today reports on the various COVID-19 vaccine rollout plans in place across the United States. CBS Sports has the story of a racial controversy that stopped a major professional soccer match. The Wall Street Journal reports on how the pandemic has led to more empathetic performance reviews.
12/9/20208 minutes, 18 seconds
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Trump is trying to undo the election. Is this a coup?

A new Washington Post report reveals the president’s calls to Pennsylvania’s house speaker asking for help reversing his loss. In a column for the Atlantic, Zeynep Tufekci breaks down why Trump’s efforts to overturn the presidential election should not be ignored, even though they don’t fit the formal definition of coup.   Politico reports on Lloyd Austin, Biden’s pick to be the first Black defense secretary.   Wired dives into a counterintuitive argument about vaccine distribution: Move social butterflies to the front of the line.   CNN has the story of why some people are saying the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico must be rescued and restored.   According to NPR, medical school applications have risen 18 percent over the last year, in what some admissions officers have named the “Fauci effect.”
12/8/20209 minutes, 32 seconds
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How the wealthy could get a COVID-19 vaccine first

The Atlantic reports that hospitals across the U.S. have passed their breaking point. And NPR and Kaiser Health News shed light on what happens at a rural hospital when just one doctor gets COVID-19. Stat reveals how privileged Americans might cut the line for a COVID-19 vaccine. Last week, WarnerMedia announced that all of its movies next year will be released on its streaming service, HBO Max, at the same time as in theaters. Bloomberg News explains how the film industry is reacting. And the Atlantic breaks down what this means for the future of movie theaters. The Wall Street Journal has the story of the Japanese space probe Hayabusa 2, which just completed a mission that may provide answers about how life began on Earth.
12/7/20209 minutes, 46 seconds
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How conspiracy theories put election workers in danger

The Washington Post looks at the threats being directed at election officials across the country. And NPR covers a recent speech by top Georgia election official Gabriel Sterling calling on the president and his allies to stop repeating false claims that undermine the electoral process. Politico explains President-elect Biden’s plans to combat the resurgent drug epidemic.  Anne McCloy, a news anchor at CBS-6 Albany in New York, has helped thousands of people get unemployment benefits. The Atlantic has the story. BuzzFeed News reports that the South Korean legislature passed an amendment exempting K-pop star Jin from military service, just in time for his 28th birthday.
12/4/20209 minutes, 58 seconds
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Can Trump pardon himself? What about his kids?

Time answers key questions about President Trump’s pardon powers.  In an op-ed for the Washington Post, former Maryland representative John Delaney argues that the government should pay individuals $1,500 to get vaccinated. But Arthur Caplan, a bioethicist at NYU School of Medicine, tells NBC’s Today Show that paying for vaccinations is a bad idea. The Marshall Project looks at the long-lasting impact of the term “superpredator” on American criminal policy and politics.  According to the Washington Post, scented candles have been getting some unusually harsh reviews during the pandemic.
12/3/20209 minutes, 35 seconds
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Which countries have responded to COVID-19 best — and worst?

ABC News reports on Attorney General William Barr, who said on Tuesday that the Department of Justice found no evidence of widespread voter fraud. NBC News has a story about an alleged bribery-for-pardon scheme being investigated by the DOJ. Bloomberg News ranks countries based on the success of each nation’s response to the pandemic. Lisa Miller writes about how the pandemic is affecting kids’ mental health for the Cut at New York Magazine. An artificial-intelligence tool has solved a scientific mystery that had eluded researchers for more than 50 years. The Guardian has the story. Fox News reports on the growing number of American cities offering financial incentives for people to relocate there.
12/2/20209 minutes, 53 seconds
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Who will get a COVID-19 vaccine first? It’s complicated.

Bloomberg reports that Vice President Pence told U.S. governors a COVID-19 vaccine is just weeks away from distribution. Stat explains how decisions are being made about who will receive a vaccine first. CNN breaks down the federal relief programs that are set to expire at the end of the year.  Grist reports that after signing the Great American Outdoors Act, the Trump administration has now changed some of the rules, which critics argue undermines the spirit of the legislation. Vox points to studies that show a neural link between gratitude and giving.
12/1/20208 minutes, 21 seconds
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Why athletes have more access to COVID-19 tests than nurses

The L.A. Times breaks down the new coronavirus-related restrictions taking effect today in Los Angeles County. And the L.A. Times reports on local residents’ reactions to the new order. For the Washington Post, Kent Babb writes about the very different levels of access to COVID-19 testing experienced by health-care workers and athletes. NPR says false claims of voter fraud by the president and Republican allies could backfire for GOP candidates in the Georgia Senate runoffs. President-elect Biden and his family will be joined by a cat in the White House next year. The Guardian has the story.
11/30/20207 minutes, 49 seconds
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Life in Lockdown: Love

For Vox, Elizabeth Segran talks to people about their dating experiences in the COVID-19 era. And the Washington Post offers some pandemic dating tips. Sociologist W. Bradford Wilcox writes for the Washington Post about the declining divorce rate during the pandemic. And the Wall Street Journal looks at some of the most common reasons couples are experiencing tension right now. The New Yorker and Bustle hear from couples who adjusted their weddings plans because of the coronavirus.
11/25/20209 minutes, 28 seconds
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Life in Lockdown: Parenting

For the Atlantic, Joe Pinsker talks with Melissa Mazmanian about the unrealistic societal expectations on working parents. The Washington Post reports on how the pandemic is specifically affecting working moms. And a Wall Street Journal survey found that nearly two-thirds of fathers say they’ve become closer to their kids during this time, which is great for the whole family. Vox breaks down how the child-care crisis in the United States comes down to economics. The Atlantic explains the limited child-care options for parents who are essential workers. And Time Magazine warns that the pandemic has devastated the U.S. child-care industry and that these losses may be difficult to come back from for years to come. For NPR, Sesame Workshop’s Rosemarie Truglio offers some advice on parenting during the pandemic.
11/24/202010 minutes, 11 seconds
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Life in Lockdown: Loneliness

NBC News has the stories of elderly people who have died from long periods of isolation duringthe coronavirus pandemic. And former surgeon general Vivek Murthy talks with NPR about the negative effects of loneliness and the power of human connection. Social scientist Kasley Killam writes for Scientific American about a recent study that found that levels of loneliness have mostly remained unchanged during the pandemic, despite increased isolation. Astronauts tell USA Today their strategies for coping with anxiety and loneliness during long periods of isolation. And Vox spoke with Murthy about his suggestions for addressing feelings of loneliness.
11/23/20209 minutes, 41 seconds
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Why is Trump still challenging the election?

The Washington Post explores President Trump’s plans to overturn the results of the election by delaying and disqualifying votes in key states, while Politico explains that the strategy is almost certain to fail. Meanwhile, Georgia finished its statewide recount, confirming Joe Biden’s victory there. CNN has the story. Vox’s Anna North explains why so many schools in the United States are closing, even as bars and restaurants are allowed to stay open. ABC News tells the stories of three young people who died of COVID-19. The Wall Street Journal reports that public officials are urging people not to travel for Thanksgiving. But if you are planning to visit family, PBS NewsHour has some guidance on how to think about navigating the holiday safely.
11/20/20209 minutes, 52 seconds
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As COVID-19 cases rise, U.S. leaders enact new restrictions

CBS provides an overview of some of the coronavirus-related restrictions announced by state and local leaders this week. And the Washington Post reports that, as escalating outbreaks threaten to overwhelm hospitals across the country, Republican governors are among those implementing stricter public-health measures. PBS Newshour spoke with former national security adviser H.R. McMaster about the Trump administration’s announcement that it is to reduce U.S. troop numbers in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Somalia. And the L.A. Times spoke with young Afghans who have only known their country with an American military presence, and worry a withdrawal will mean the return of Taliban rule. Jill Lepore writes for the New Yorker about how U.S. presidents have avoided making some of their papers and files public record — and what we might be able to expect from the current president. Chess grandmaster Garry Kasparov was consulted with for Netflix show The Queen’s Gambit. He talks with Slate about what the show got right.
11/19/202010 minutes, 20 seconds
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Trump’s attempts to overturn the election are not working

In Wayne County, Michigan, on Tuesday, the local board of canvassers temporarily withheld certification of the presidential election. The Detroit Free Press has the story. And the Wall Street Journal documents the Trump campaign’s continuing efforts to overturn Joe Biden’s victory.  The Washington Post reports that local governments are struggling to distribute Cares Act funding to people in need, even as the December 30 deadline to use the funds approaches. Quartz highlights a significant step in San Francisco to reign in executive compensation: a ”CEO tax.” The Washington Post’s food critic collected advice from Alaska, Scandinavia, and the South Pole on how to embrace eating outdoors in the cold this winter.
11/18/202010 minutes, 25 seconds
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Who is first in line for a COVID-19 vaccine?

CNET breaks down who is first in line to receive a COVID-19 vaccine once one is approved. National Geographic explains the recommendations from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for who should be given priority when distributing a future vaccine. And the Washington Post reports on what global cooperation — or lack there of — could mean for the disease. Tens of thousands of abuse allegations have been filed against the Boy Scouts of America. The Wall Street Journal provides some background on the history of sexual abuse within the organization, while NPR has the story of one victim who was abused by a scoutmaster in the 1970s. James Arkin writes for Politico that the Senate runoff elections in Georgia will present an even tougher challenge for Democrats than flipping the state in the presidential race. Politico also reports on the strategies from each party to win the elections and establish a majority in the Senate. And Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger tells the Washington Post that Republican efforts to invalidate legally cast ballots in the presidential elections could depress voter turnout in the upcoming special elections.
11/17/202010 minutes, 29 seconds
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As the pandemic worsens, health-care workers are burning out

Ed Yong writes for the Atlantic that doctors and nurses have become our most valuable resource in fighting COVID-19 — and warns that these health-care workers are burning out. Texas Monthly says Rice University has been able to prevent major spread of the coronavirus on its campus by putting enforcement of public-health rules into the hands of students. Today, the Miami Marlins will officially introduce their newest general manager, Kim Ng. She is not only the first female GM in Major League Baseball, but also in all of men’s professional sports in North America. The Miami Herald and the Washington Post profile Ng and her accomplishments. Vox and the Washington Post explain why turkey farmers are bracing to see how the pandemic will change Thanksgiving celebrations.
11/16/202011 minutes
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Despite challenges, Biden moves ahead with transition

The Washington Post explains how the Biden team is planning to work around obstruction from the Trump administration as it prepares for office. The Post also says there is acknowledgment within Trump's inner circle that he lost the election and that his attempts to change the results are all dead ends. And several Republican senators, including Chuck Grassley and Lindsey Graham, told CNN that Biden should start getting classified intelligence briefings. Politico breaks down the tensions between the moderate and progressive wings of the Democratic Party. And John Harris points out for Politico that the party’s leadership is not yet ready to hand over the reins to the next generation. USA Today and the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting are out with revelations from a five-month investigation into a COVID-19 outbreak at a Triumph Foods pork processing plant. Vox answers your questions about planning for Thanksgiving. And NBC’s Today spoke with people who’ve pivoted away from traditions this year and opted for safer options instead.
11/13/202010 minutes, 38 seconds
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What seat-belt laws can teach us about mask mandates

The Atlantic explains the implications of news that the U.S. hit a record number of COVID-19 hospitalizations this week. And the Wall Street Journal reports that hospitals in rural areas are particularly overwhelmed. The mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, recently cast a decisive vote during a city council meeting against the implementation of a mask mandate, even though he has urged residents to wear masks in the past. The Washington Post has the story. And the medical publication Stat says masks have become the new seat belts. CNN has a profile of the husband and wife behind Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine candidate.
11/12/20208 minutes, 40 seconds
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Why a peaceful transfer of power matters

The Wall Street Journal and NPR explain the implications of delaying the transfer of power from one administration to the next. And the Washington Post reports that the White House is preparing the Trump administration’s budget proposal for the next fiscal year, even though Trump will not be president during that time. Vox breaks down what Trump can do during his final days in office.  Sarah Zhang writes in the Atlantic about how rollout of an eventual COVID-19 vaccine during the lame-duck period between two administrations could work.  The National Park Service announced that veterans and Gold Star families will have free lifetime access to all national parks, the Washington Post reports.Vox breaks down what Trump can do during his final days in office.  Sarah Zhang writes in the Atlantic about how rollout of an eventual COVID-19 vaccine during the lame-duck period between two administrations could work.  The National Park Service announced that veterans and Gold Star families will have free lifetime access to all national parks, the Washington Post reports.
11/11/20209 minutes, 23 seconds
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Even in defeat, Donald Trump defines the Republican Party

The Washington Post reports on Republican leaders supporting President Trump's baseless efforts to challenge the results of the election. Politico says the battle over who leads the post-Trump party is already underway, and that the two upcoming Georgia special elections will give aspiring leaders a chance to showcase themselves. The Guardian and CNN report on Stacey Abrams’s voting-rights efforts in Georgia and how she has been a key player in working to turn the state blue. Vox explains the latest legal challenge to the Affordable Care Act, which the Supreme Court hears today. Politico breaks down where the conservative justices might fall in the case. Following the announcement that Pfizer is making strides on a COVID-19 vaccine, ABC News says there are questions over whether the U.S. has enough ultra-low-temperature freezers to distribute the vaccine effectively.
11/10/202010 minutes, 10 seconds
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President-elect Biden gets to work; Trump refuses to concede

Stat breaks down the president-elect’s plan to address the pandemic. Politico provides an overview of contenders for various positions in a future Biden cabinet. The Washington Post reports that Biden is already preparing a series of executive orders after he's sworn in on January 20. And Axios reviews the Biden-Harris transition website and the pair’s plans to tackle four major issues. The Washington Post highlights notable concession speeches from modern history. ABC News chronicles some of the threats of violence directed at poll workers in this election. And the Hill reports that one Georgia election worker has gone into hiding after being falsely accused of throwing away a ballot. Biden’s dog Major will the first shelter dog to occupy the White House. NPR has the story. CNN writes that Kamala Harris’s husband, Douglas Emhoff, will be the nation’s first Second Gentleman. And USA Today says Jill Biden will be the first First Lady in 231 years to maintain her career while serving in this role.
11/9/202011 minutes, 13 seconds
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Biden wins, Harris makes history

With a victory in Pennsylvania Saturday morning, Joe Biden has secured enough electoral votes to win the presidency. Senator Kamala Harris will become the first woman, Black person, and Indian American to serve as vice president. This outcome marks the end of a historic election in which a record number of voters weighed in on the country’s future. The Wall Street Journal has the story. And the Los Angeles Times reports on the historic nature of Kamala Harris’s many firsts.
11/7/20205 minutes, 43 seconds
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Biden takes lead in Georgia and Pennsylvania

The Wall Street Journal reports on where the presidential race stands. The Washington Post and Poynter break down why Fox News and the Associated Press have called Arizona for Joe Biden while other organizations have not. Politico and the Wall Street Journal explain the implications of Democrats faring worse than expected in state legislative races.  NBC News has an update on COVID-19 infections spiking in the United States and a recent analysis that looks at voting patterns in areas of the country seeing outbreaks.
11/6/20207 minutes, 42 seconds
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The states that will decide the presidential election

The Wall Street Journal and Politico break down the latest election results. Vox reports on the passed ballot measures that are significantly shifting U.S. drug policy. Yesterday, the U.S. became the first country to officially exit the Paris climate agreement. Bloomberg News explains what this means, even as the presidential election hangs in the balance. Gerald Seib writes for the Wall Street Journal that even without all the election results in, it is clear the U.S. remains an extremely divided nation.
11/5/202010 minutes
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Wisconsin goes to Biden, and more election updates

The Washington Post has the latest election results.  Politico reports that voting during the election went fairly smoothly, despite a few hiccups, including at the post office. The Washington Post has that story.  And finally, as Valencia County goes, so goes the nation, right? Tim Alberta in Politico explains why this little-known county is one to watch. Maine has become the first state to use ranked-choice voting in a presidential race. The Wall Street Journal explains how the system works. Politico reports that voting during the election went fairly smoothly, despite a few hiccups, including at the post office. The Washington Post has that story.  And finally, as Valencia County goes, so goes the nation, right? Tim Alberta in Politico explains why this little-known county is one to watch. 
11/4/20207 minutes, 51 seconds
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Here’s what you need to know as election results come in

PBS NewsHour explains how the Associated Press will call races in the election starting tonight. Reuters interviewed executives at five major TV news networks about their plans for analyzing race results this evening. And the LA Times recently profiled Arnon Mishkin, who leads the Fox election-night analysis team. The Wall Street Journal breaks down the information that we may know by the end of today. And FiveThirtyEight lists what time polls close and election results should start coming in for various states around the country. Slate and Poynter have some pointers about how to view and understand the election results as they come in.
11/3/202010 minutes, 28 seconds
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The presidential candidates make their closing arguments

The Wall Street Journal describes the presidential candidates’ final days on the campaign trail. The News & Observer says law enforcement deployed chemical spray at a North Carolina rally honoring George Floyd. And the Texas Tribune explains why a Republican lawsuit seeking to throw out around 120,000 ballots was thrown out by the all-Republican state Supreme Court on Sunday. CNN has the latest information on COVID-19 in the United States. And in a recent interview with the Washington Post, Dr. Anthony Fauci criticized the Trump administration’s response to the pandemic. The L.A. Times profiles two men at the center of the effort to change the Electoral College. NPR offers some tips to help us all cope with the stress in the final hours before Election Day.
11/2/20209 minutes, 17 seconds
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The voters who could tip the scales for Trump or Biden

President Trump is less popular among suburban voters, particularly suburban women, in this election. Vox explains why. Politico says Latinos make a small part of the Pennsylvania electorate but could tip the scales in this tight battleground state. Politico also looks at polling that indicates Biden is underperforming among Latino voters in Florida compared with Hillary Clinton in 2016. And NBC spoke to young Latinos campaigning for Trump in Florida who believe the president will bring freedom and democracy to Latin American countries that have suffered under repressive regimes. The Washington Post reports that millions of requested mail ballots have not been returned yet. And if you’re this position, NPR lists some good alternatives including dropping off your ballot at an official ballot drop box. NPR also breaks down voting rights for people with disabilities. Popular Science explains why so many people believe in ghosts.
10/30/20209 minutes, 36 seconds
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How Trump's businesses have made millions off his presidency

David Fahrenthold reveals in a Washington Post investigation that the Trump Organization has received at least $2.5 million in taxpayer funds during the president’s time in office, mostly through visits and travel by Trump and his family members. The Post also offers a summary of the investigation. Vox explains why ballot measures in five states will give voters the chance to make significant changes to their criminal-justice systems.  And as we head into the final days of the election, NPR reports that Americans’ relationships are suffering.  The Washington Post has an interview with Anika Chebrolu, who, at the age of 14, has discovered a potential antiviral treatment for COVID-19.
10/29/20209 minutes, 24 seconds
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Why Texas and Georgia are competitive this election year

Robert Draper writes for Texas Monthly that while it seems likely President Trump will win Texas, trends are pointing toward the state becoming more and more politically competitive. The Texas Tribune reports that Biden has struggled to win over Latino voters, who would be a key demographic in any chance he has turning Texas blue. And a CNN political analyst breaks down why Republican dominance in the state has weakened.  The Washington Post explains why either presidential candidate could win Georgia this year. Daily Beast reporter Pilar Melendez has the story of the criminal sex cult NXIVM and the yearslong legal battle that resulted in its founder, Keith Raniere, being sentenced to 120 years in prison. The Los Angeles Times has a write-up of the Dodgers’ championship win in Game 6 of the World Series. The L.A. Times also explains why the victory was bittersweet, with veteran star Justin Turner benched after receiving a positive COVID-19 test.
10/28/202010 minutes
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How Supreme Court decisions are shaping the election

On Monday night, the Supreme Court ruled in a 5–3 decision that Wisconsin mail-in ballots postmarked by November 3 but received after Election Day cannot be counted. The Guardian has the story. The Washington Post and NBC offer overviews of the court’s recent election-related decisions. Vox explains how the recent ruling on Pennsylvania mail-in ballots may only be a temporary victory for Democrats and voting-rights advocates. Nina Totenberg writes for NPR about the court’s decision to side with Alabama state officials and allow a ban on curbside voting to stand. The Washington Post reports on the court’s order that South Carolina mail-in ballots must have a witness signature, and some of the confusion that resulted from this ruling. Mark Joseph Stern writes for Slate about how Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation could have drastic implications for how states run their elections.
10/27/20208 minutes, 29 seconds
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Here’s why polling isn’t the best way to judge the 2020 race

The New Yorker looks at the value of polling ahead of the election, and why lots of people are getting a sense of déjà vu after 2016’s blunders. Plus, Reuters speaks with Americans who don’t typically vote about why they’re coming off the sidelines this year. And the Washington Post profiles one family’s struggle amid a pandemic and racial unrest to save a Black 11-year-old boy with a mental illness.  Finally, the Daily Beast has the details on how entomologists took on the murder hornets.
10/26/20209 minutes, 59 seconds
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The debates are over. Here's how each candidate can win.

Apple News has a collection of the best coverage of the debate. Vox breaks down 14 crucial states that provide a path to victory for either presidential candidate. And FiveThirtyEight has an interactive map highlighting all the different combinations of states that could push each camp over the finish line.
10/23/20208 minutes, 29 seconds
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How the U.S. went on the offense in global cyberwarfare

The Washington Post reports on reported Iranian and Russian plots to interfere ithe presidential election. And Wired profiles one of the leading architects of the U.S. cyberwar strategy. The Wall Street Journal has an explainer on Nigeria’s protests against police brutality. And Bloomberg reports that the governor of Lagos ordered a 24-hour curfew on Tuesday, enforced by anti-riot police. Vox explains what little is known about people who experience the effects of COVID-19 months after infection. And doctors with long-term symptoms of the disease tell the Wall Street Journal the experience has changed their perspective on medical care. CNN has the story of a 94-year-old woman who got her son to drive her 300 miles each way to make sure she could vote.
10/22/20209 minutes, 48 seconds
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545 migrant children are still separated from their parents

A new court filing from the ACLU and the Department of Justice reveals that 545 children separated from their families due to the Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” policy have yet to be reunited with their parents. NBC News has the story. And KQED examines the efforts to track down parents in Mexico and Central America. Time looks into Sweden’s strategy to address the coronavirus pandemic and says it should not be considered a model for other countries. And Kaiser Health News has the facts on herd immunity. The Times of London explores why Africa seems to have fared better during the pandemic than many experts predicted. And Karen Attiah, global opinions editor for the Washington Post, writes about specific African countries’ effective responses to stop the virus from spreading. The Guardian reviews a new documentary that examines the long history of U.S. government investigations into unexplained UFO sightings. 
10/21/20209 minutes, 24 seconds
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Inside the partisan websites posing as local media

The Wall Street Journal reports on a rise in websites that look like local media but have partisan aims and connections to political operatives and donors. And Vox has a guide to help verify whether information you’re seeing online is coming from a reputable source. Vox breaks down the marijuana legalization measures that are on the ballot in five states this election.  Reuters is out with a special report that reveals that more than 7,500 people died in jails in the United States between 2008 and 2019, and most never saw their day in court. As the Tampa Bay Rays and Los Angeles Dodgers kick off the World Series, the Wall Street Journal explains how Tampa Bay has the chance to pick up three championships this year.The Wall Street Journal reports on a rise in websites that look like local media but have partisan aims and connections to political operatives and donors. And Vox has a guide to help verify whether information you’re seeing online is coming from a reputable source. Vox breaks down the marijuana legalization measures that are on the ballot in five states this election.  Reuters is out with a special report that reveals that more than 7,500 people died in jails in the United States between 2008 and 2019, and most never saw their day in court. As the Tampa Bay Rays and Los Angeles Dodgers kick off the World Series, the Wall Street Journal explains how Tampa Bay has the chance to pick up three championships this year.
10/20/202010 minutes, 1 second
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These states had the best pandemic responses in the country

As the U.S. prepares for another wave of the coronavirus, Politico looks at which states responded well to the first wave — and what the rest of the country can learn from their actions.    Analysis by Georgia Public Broadcasting and ProPublica sheds light on long lines at voting locations in Georgia: As voter registration has gone up in the state, the number of polling places has dropped.   For the New Yorker, Masha Gessen interviews Russian anti-corruption activist Alexey Navalny about his recovery after being poisoned and nearly dying.   The Washington Post has a story about a man diagnosed with terminal cancer who cast his ballot on the first day of early voting in Michigan, before dying a few days later.
10/19/20208 minutes, 48 seconds
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Dueling town halls: Biden and Trump offer different messages

Last night, Donald Trump and Joe Biden competed for airtime in a pair of dueling town hall debates. Apple News Spotlight has a roundup of coverage. The Washington Post looks at the record levels of early voting seen in this election cycle. And BuzzFeed News says the long lines seen at polling places this week don’t necessarily suggest voter suppression, but rather voter enthusiasm. ProPublica goes behind the scenes at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and reveals how politics has undermined trust in the agency, even among the people who work there. CNN profiles the rapid rise of Jacinda Ardern, the prime minister of New Zealand. Three years ago, at the age of 37, Ardern became the youngest woman ever elected to the role. Now she is on the verge of winning a second term. Scientific American breaks down one astronomer’s math that there’s a 50/50 chance we are living in a simulation.
10/16/202011 minutes, 37 seconds
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Inside the powerful group remaking America’s courts

The Atlantic calls Amy Coney Barrett a “luminary” of the conservative legal movement and traces her rise to the Federalist Society, which has had a major influence on federal judge selection during Republican administrations. Stat and BuzzFeed provide some context to two recently paused COVID-19-related clinical trials — and explain why these pauses indicate the system is working.  The Washington Post‘s Voices From the Pandemic series features the story of Tony Green, who thought COVID-19 was overblown until he got sick and lost a close family member to the virus. CNN explains why voters are often not allowed to wear clothes that contain political messaging when they go to the polls.
10/15/20208 minutes, 43 seconds
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What happened on day two of the Amy Coney Barrett hearings

Vox and the Washington Post recap the second day of Amy Coney Barrett’s Supreme Court nomination hearings. As the court allows the 2020 census count to stop temporarily, Reuters explains why some of the hardest-to-count regions may be even harder to survey this year because of the pandemic. KCRW has the latest on pro-Armenian protests in L.A. that are calling for an end to escalating violence between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Vox has an explainer on the conflict. The Guardian has the story of how Paul Milgrom found out he had won the Nobel prize in economics.
10/14/202011 minutes, 48 seconds
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The possibility of expanding the Supreme Court

National Geographic looks at how the number of Supreme Court seats has changed throughout history. And Politico Magazine explains how Republicans have led efforts to change the number of justices on state Supreme Courts.  Stat reports that two presidents of historically Black universities who encouraged their communities to participate in coronavirus vaccine trails were immediately met with backlash. And ProPublica has the story of a Louisiana hospital that sent Black COVID-19 patients home to die. The L.A. Times is out with a piece about incarcerated people in prison factories who were kept working during the pandemic, sometimes manufacturing essential items like masks and hand sanitizer. Time discusses a UK-based study into the ability of dogs to detect the coronavirus.
10/13/202010 minutes, 24 seconds
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What to expect at the Amy Coney Barrett hearings this week

As the Senate begins its debate over the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett Supreme Court, the Wall Street Journal says the hearings hold significant risks for both parties. Chuck Schumer tells Politico that Democrats have been instructed to avoid all questions about Barrett’s family or her religion, and plan instead to press her on her views on abortion and health care. Bloomberg News looks at Cameron, Louisiana, which was hit by both Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Delta. Reuters reports on the widespread damage the town has sustained due to the back-to-back storms. The Washington Post has the latest on the NFL games that were recently rescheduled due to coronavirus outbreaks. ESPN and the Wall Street Journal explain how the virus is affecting teams and the league’s current health and safety protocols. NPR reports that a conservation group is warning that half a million sharks could be killed if an approved COVID-19 vaccine uses an oil that comes from shark liver.
10/12/20209 minutes, 9 seconds
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Inside the plot to kidnap Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer

USA Today breaks down revelations that six members of a militia group were arrested and charged with plotting to kidnap Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer. The Texas Tribune reports on the recent voting rule changes in its state. And the Hill writes about concerns that some of these changes could lead to voter suppression. The UN World Food Program is the winner of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize. CNN has the latest. National Geographic reports on efforts to reintroduce the critically endangered Tasmanian devil to mainland Australia for the first time in 3,000 years.
10/9/20209 minutes, 30 seconds
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Key takeaways from last night’s VP debate

Check out Apple News Spotlight for a complete review of the first and only vice presidential debate. Politico explains Joe Biden’s plan to address the pandemic, if elected. Politico also looks specifically at Vice President Pence’s role as the head of the coronavirus task force. And the Washington Post breaks down the details of President Trump’s travel ban from China at the start of the pandemic. NPR reviews Amy Coney Barrett’s mixed record on abortion rights.  CBS News compares Biden’s climate plan with the Green New Deal. Politico finds that some of Trump’s environmental rollbacks will result in an extra 1.8 billion tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere between now and 2035.   Plus, Apple News has a voter guide with everything you need to know to cast your ballot.
10/8/20208 minutes, 42 seconds
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Why $4 trillion in bailouts didn't save the economy

The Washington Post reports on the president’s call for an end to stimulus-bill negotiations. The Washington Post also offers an extensive analysis of the effectiveness of past coronavirus-relief spending. Two homes, less than a 30-minute drive from each other, highlight the different ways the economic crisis is impacting people in the U.S., particularly when it comes to homeowners and renters. Bloomberg Businessweek has the story.  The L.A. Times explains the origins and implications of a California wildfire that reached “gigafire” status this week. Reuters says more than 4 million people have already voted in the 2020 election. And CBS has the story of Beatrice Lumpkin, a 102-year-old woman who cast her ballot in a hazmat hood.
10/7/202010 minutes, 28 seconds
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The White House is a hot spot. What’s it like to work there?

The Washington Post and the Atlantic are out with pieces that look at the role of the White House’s permanent household staff and some of the risks they face while working in middle of a pandemic. The Charlotte Observer provides an update on recent controversies in a competitive North Carolina Senate race. The State breaks down what happened at the South Carolina Senate debate. The State also outlines the issues South Carolina voters are paying attention to this election. As Nobel Committee announces prize winners this week, NPR points out that few women and people of color have won Nobel awards in medicine, physics, and chemistry. CNN has the results of today’s Nobel Prize in physics. National Geographic writes that a map that was launched into space 50 years ago to lead extraterrestrials to Earth needs un update.The Charlotte Observer provides an update on recent controversies in a competitive North Carolina Senate race. The State breaks down what happened at the South Carolina Senate debate. The State also outlines the issues South Carolina voters are paying attention to this election. An analysis by USA Today Sports finds a disconnect between professional sports players’ support for social justices causes and the political spending of team owners.  National Geographic writes that a map that was launched into space 50 years ago to lead extraterrestrials to Earth needs un update.
10/6/20209 minutes, 37 seconds
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How sick is President Trump? Here’s what we know.

The Wall Street Journal breaks down the latest developments regarding President Trump’s health after his diagnosis with COVID-19 late last week. Axios examines comments at the Sunday press briefing by White House physician Sean Conley. And the Hill reports that Trump took a drive by the crowd gathered outside Walter Reed military hospital — a move that drew criticism from some medical professionals. Tim Alberta writes for Politico Magazine about White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and how his recent contradictory statements about the president’s health align with a reputation of being at times dishonest and unreliable. Vox says that since news broke of Trump’s diagnosis, more than 97,000 people in the U.S. have tested positive for the virus. The Washington Post explains how a Rose Garden gathering celebrating the Supreme Court nomination of Amy Coney Barrett became a possible “superspreader" event. And Peter Nichols in the Atlantic notes that protocol at the White House has barely changed since the news that many people in Trump’s circle are sick. National Geographic details different instances throughout history when a president has fallen seriously ill. And Stat spoke with several doctors who notice a disconnect between the White House’s positive message and the aggressive medical protocol the president is receiving.
10/5/20209 minutes, 10 seconds
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President Trump has tested positive for COVID-19. Here's what we know.

President Trump and the First Lady have tested positive for COVID-19. Bloomberg and CNN have the latest updates. Zeynep Tufekci writes for the Atlantic that a more effective strategy for stemming the spread of COVID-19 is to focus on clusters of the virus, rather than each individual case. The Wall Street Journal has a collection of stories about how the coronavirus pandemic and economic recession are affecting women. One piece details a recent study that found a higher percentage of women than men are considering leaving the workforce. And the Washington Post is out with new analysis looking at how the economic recession has hit certain groups, like women, people of color, and younger people, much harder than others. Politico reports that the president’s calls for poll watchers has led to supporters showing up at election offices to observe people requesting or turning in their mail ballots. And Marketplace describes what happened when the Republican Party sent off-duty local law-enforcement officials to polling stations in majority Black and Latino communities in New Jersey in 1981. Vice celebrates an African giant pouched rat who saves human lives in Cambodia by detecting landmines, and was recently given an award for braver
10/2/202011 minutes, 13 seconds
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Breonna Taylor decision renews criticism of grand juries

NBC breaks down how grand juries work and what the public should understand about their findings. And USA Today reports on the delayed release of the Breonna Taylor grand jury recordings. The Wall Street Journal explains the implications of a Florida law that restricts the voting rights of an estimated 1.4 million people with felony convictions. The Cut tells us how to become a poll worker and what the job entails. CNN highlights Fat Bear Week — an annual contest that asks voters to decide which bear at Brooks River, Alaska, has been most successful in fattening themselves up for hibernation.
10/1/20209 minutes, 32 seconds
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The first debate was a train wreck. Here’s what to know.

Check out Apple News’s Spotlight Collection for full coverage and analysis of the first presidential debate. NBC News delivers reactions from a far-right group after the president refused to condemn its members’ behavior. The Washington Post and Kaiser Health News offer important context about pandemic-related issues raised during the debate. And Vox provides history about Biden’s role in a crime law passed in 1994.
9/30/202011 minutes, 2 seconds
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How remote learning hurts low-income students

Alec MacGillis writes for ProPublica and the New Yorker about the lasting effects of remote learning on low-income students and the public school system. Chalkbeat has a national survey that breaks down disparities in remote learning across the U.S. NPR talks with Black Americans who are purchasing firearms after seeing videos online of Black people being gunned down. And the Los Angeles Times profiles the Minnesota Freedom Fighters, a group of Black men who have joined together to protect their communities and fill what they see as a void left by police. The MLB playoffs begin today. ESPN explains what makes this postseason different from others in the past. NPR has the story of the NASA astronaut who will be casting her ballot from space.
9/29/20208 minutes, 52 seconds
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Trump’s taxes: Here are the major revelations

The Washington Post and NBC summarize reporting from the New York Times about more than two decades of President Trump’s tax information. The Wall Street Journal looks at the background and legal thinking of President Trump’s nomination to the Supreme Court: Amy Coney Barrett. And BuzzFeed breaks down her judicial record.
9/28/20209 minutes, 25 seconds
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How will we know a coronavirus vaccine is safe?

The Washington Post has a profile of Kentucky attorney general Daniel Cameron, who announced this week that no police officers would be charged for the death of Breonna  Taylor. Politico reports on President Trump’s recent comments that he may reject stricter emergency vaccine standards from the Food and Drug Administration. And FiveThirtyEight spoke with a handful of experts about how to know if a COVID-19 vaccine is trustworthy. The Washington Post resurfaces Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s opening remarks from her Supreme Court nomination hearing back in 1993.
9/25/20209 minutes, 57 seconds
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Protests erupt over Breonna Taylor decision

The Washington Post has the latest developments related to Breonna Taylor’s killing. USA Today explains “wanton endangerment” — the charge brought against one Louisville police officer involved in her death. And the Courier Journal examines that officer’s record and behavior leading up to the fatal incident. In the Atlantic, Barton Gellman warns that the worst-case scenario for the November election would be if President Trump uses his power to prevent his defeat. The New Yorker describes the many issues presented by “space junk” — the trash humans have been abandoning in Earth’s orbit since the 1950s.
9/24/20209 minutes, 6 seconds
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The economic crisis hits the middle class

The Wall Street Journal looks at how the economic crisis is hurting white-collar workers in the United States.  In an investigation, NPR finds that lethal injections being given to inmates on death row are leading to high rates of pulmonary edema, a condition caused by a buildup of fluid in the lungs, which induces feelings of drowning and suffocation. CBS News explains why the top election official in Philadelphia sent a letter to the state legislature warning that a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling could cause “electoral chaos.” And the Washington Post spells out how to track your ballot online and verify it has been counted.  National Geographic reports on a new study that shows beavers are one of nature’s best firefighters.
9/23/20208 minutes, 15 seconds
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President Trump’s next Supreme Court nominee

NBC News says the president plans to announce his pick for a Supreme Court justice nominee at the end of the week. Reuters profiles two federal appellate judges who are reportedly at the top of his list: Amy Coney Barrett and Barbara Lagoa. BuzzFeed is out with an investigative series about how major banks facilitate and profit from criminal organizations moving money through the financial system — and how the government has not stopped this from happening. Read the first three installments: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3. The Washington Post highlights the work of student journalists to break important stories as colleges and universities start their fall semester during the pandemic. National Geographic explains how, throughout history, the number of Supreme Court seats has varied — from as few as 5 to as many as 10.
9/22/20209 minutes, 50 seconds
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Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s legacy and the Supreme Court’s future

Apple News has a collection of the best coverage of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s legacy. The Washington Post has the latest on where President Trump stands on nominating the next Supreme Court justice. Vox breaks down the possibility of a Senate vote to fill Justice Ginsburg’s seat on the Supreme Court. CNN explains recent polling that indicates the opening on the Supreme Court is a more of a motivating election issue for Democrats than Republicans.  Politico looks at how Justice Ginsburg’s death will affect some of the key cases on the court's docket this fall. For the Atlantic, legal scholar Jeffrey Rosen presents an intimate interview with Justice Ginsburg.
9/21/202011 minutes, 5 seconds
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Another allegation of sexual assault against President Trump

The Guardian has exclusive reporting on the latest allegation of sexual assault levied against President Trump. In the Atlantic, E. Jean Carroll is publishing an ongoing series of interviews with fellow accusers of the president. Read the first three installments: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3. Vanity Fair reveals Republican congressman Matt Gaetz’s theory of gaining political influence through media appearances.  Bloomberg News reports that almost a third of office workers say they never want to go back to the office. Bloomberg News also says many CEOs aren’t so excited about employees working from home. Amanda Mull for the Atlantic reveals why so many products have been sold out during the pandemic.
9/18/20207 minutes, 28 seconds
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Two candidates, two plans to address coronavirus

Yesterday, the Trump administration announced its plan for vaccine distribution once a vaccine has received FDA authorization. USA Today lays out the plan, while the Washington Post explains how former Joe Biden would address the pandemic if elected president. The Intercept reports on whistleblower allegations that immigrant women are being sterilized without their knowledge or consent at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in Georgia. The Washington Post reveals that more lower-income students are dropping out of college.  KCRW explains a recent trend that dentists have noticed during the pandemic: more patients with teeth problems related to grinding and clenching.
9/17/20207 minutes, 26 seconds
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Climate change report predicts mass migration in the U.S.

For ProPublica and the New York Times Magazine, Abrahm Lustgarten reports that the devastating effects of climate change will cause mass migration in the United States. And ProPublica also uses data to create maps that show how the changing climate will reshape the country. In a new investigation, NPR and PBS Frontline find that much of the plastic people think they’re recycling is ending up in landfills. Laura Secor for the New Yorker reveals that an Iranian scientist faced a yearslong legal battle after refusing to become an FBI informant. The Washington Post brings us a story of a letter delivered by the USPS after being lost in the mail for a hundred years.
9/16/20208 minutes, 44 seconds
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The historic peace agreement between Israel and the UAE

The L.A. Times reports on President Trump’s visit to California and Joe Biden’s remarks about the wildfires in the state. The L.A. Times also explains the connection between climate change and California’s record-breaking wildfires. And MarketWatch outlines where Trump and Biden stand on environmental policy. As Israel and the United Arab Emirates sign a peace deal at the White House, NBC News reports that Bahrain will also move toward establishing a diplomatic relationship with Israel. The New Yorker’s Bernard Avishai, who’s been writing about Israeli foreign relations for decades, offers his analysis of the deal. Dennis Ross writes for the Washington Post that the agreement could cause other Arab nations facing crises to see a helpful ally in Israel. And Al Jazeera explains what it all means for Palestine. NBC News describes how issues with this year’s census could lead to a major undercount. National Geographic breaks down the recent discovery of a possible sign of life on Venus and the resulting debate in the science community. And “early voting” or “in-person absentee voting” begins today in six states. If you’re a voter in Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, South Dakota, Wyoming, or Virginia, check out our election guide to see if you can vote early in your county.
9/15/20208 minutes, 42 seconds
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As wildfires spread in the U.S., so do conspiracy theories

CNN details recent conspiracy theories — which law enforcement has made clear are untrue — that have emerged about the Oregon wildfires. And for Time magazine, Charlotte Alter spoke to voters across Wisconsin and found that conspiracy theories have become entrenched in the American psyche. Bloomberg Businessweek spoke with workers at several companies who say they were told not to discuss COVID-19 workplace cases. The Washington Post reports that after hundreds of meatpacking plants saw outbreaks among their workers, only two plants have been fined. And the Intercept reveals that employees who have gotten sick with the coronavirus are not receiving workers’ compensation. California Sunday Magazine breaks down how the vote-by-mail industry works. The Atlantic explains why smartphones can’t quite capture the red skies from recent wildfires.
9/14/20208 minutes, 36 seconds
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Some teachers have already died of COVID-19 this school year

As schools reopen, the Washington Post reports that at least six teachers across several states have died of COVID-19 since early August. The Post also looks at Florida, which has a high coronavirus positivity rate among children, and where half of the state’s K-12 students returned to their classrooms in recent weeks. The State has the story of the youngest reported teacher death, Demetria “Demi” Bannister, a 28-year-old third-grade teacher. And the president of the American Federation of Teachers tells the Associated Press that schools in certain areas of the country should not hold in-person classes. The New Yorker’s Isaac Chotiner interviews Washington’s secretary of state, Kim Wyman, about the advantages of voting by mail and her concerns for the upcoming election. Bloomberg details a recent report that found that between 1970 and 2016, animal populations around the world fell by 68% on average. And on the 19th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, the LA Times describes the recently completed “Tower of Voices” – a massive wind chime that is part of the Flight 93 National Memorial.
9/11/20208 minutes, 20 seconds
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The Trump tapes: What the president knew about COVID-19

CNN and the Washington Post report on revelations that President Trump knew more about the dangers of COVID-19 during the early stages of the pandemic than he conveyed to the American public. Politico breaks a story about how administration appointees encouraged the altering of information for seemingly political purposes. And Fox News asks Dr. Anthony Fauci for his thoughts on the controversy. The Marshall Project talks with formerly incarcerated people who are helping to fight California’s wildfires — after having fought fires while in prison. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, a professional football player who is also a doctor in training, decided to sit out of this season to help fight the pandemic. Sports Illustrated has his story. The Guardian has an op-ed written by an A.I. language generator.
9/10/20209 minutes, 10 seconds
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The West Coast is in flames. It doesn’t have to be this way.

The LA Times has the latest on the massive fires burning across California. And ProPublica explains why the country doesn't effectively manage these wildfires and says the problem was avoidable. Poynter warns that election results may not be available until a week or more after November 3. The Washington Post has the story of a man who discovered he has at least 19 children from sperm donations made nearly three decades ago. Bloomberg describes the surprising ways airlines are making money during the coronavirus pandemic.
9/9/20209 minutes
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A tale of two economies

Politico describes how the pandemic is making economic inequality in the United States even worse. The Atlantic profiles people who have kept their well-paying jobs and, with fewer expenses, have increased their saving rates. And the Wall Street Journal talks to people with lower incomes who are continuing to struggle during the recession. Joshua Yaffa, a  Moscow correspondent for the New Yorker, writes that by focusing too much on Russian disinformation and election interference, we’re letting existing societal issues go unresolved. BuzzFeed News reports that Hurricane Laura has led to oil refineries and chemical plants in the Gulf Coast states spilling or leaking toxic substances into areas affected by the storm — jeopardizing the health of nearby residents. A number of famous Americans got their start at the U.S. Postal Service. National Geographic has the story.
9/8/20209 minutes, 19 seconds
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Could a vaccine be approved in October?

Stat explains the process the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would follow to approve a COVID-19 vaccine before clinical trials have ended. The Washington Post reports that some people are concerned about the FDA using emergency authorization to do so, while others argue such action could save lives if properly executed. And NPR talks with a White House vaccine adviser who is skeptical of the timeline. Reuters describes the debate around qualified immunity — a legal doctrine that shields police from lawsuits while they’re on the job. Derek Thompson writes for the Atlantic about how, throughout history, visionary responses to catastrophes have changed urban life for the better. And he argues that the coronavirus pandemic might present another such opportunity for us to improve our cities. The Wall Street Journal collects advice from executives and career experts about how to look for a job during the pandemic.
9/4/20209 minutes, 43 seconds
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Debunking COVID-19 death-count misinformation

Foreign-born voters make up an unprecedented 10% of eligible voters. FiveThirtyEight looks at the impact of this group, as well as the challenges newly naturalized citizens face in registering to vote. Slate breaks down a recent CDC report about the number of deaths from COVID-19 in the United States. Vox talks with a cognitive scientist who provides insight into why some Americans are skeptical of the virus death-toll. And CNBC highlights Dr. Anthony Fauci’s recent interview confirming that more than 180,000 people have died from COVID-19 in this country. The future of fashion might be clothing and accessories made out of fungi. The Washington Post talks to biomaterials company founders about their fungal products.
9/3/20208 minutes, 10 seconds
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The CDC bans evictions through the end of the year

Politico describes the evictions ban that was enacted through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday. Meanwhile, CNBC explains how the payroll tax deferment could affect Americans’ paychecks. The Washington Post says the tax deferment will apply to millions of federal workers. And CNN breaks down how President Trump’s executive actions from last month have played out on the ground. The Wall Street Journal talks with college students who question whether online instruction is worth paying full tuition, and explains the challenges of lowering tuition fees for institutions. And MarketWatch points out that public colleges are the most likely to face funding issues over the next few years. National Geographic profiles the woman who developed the first successful antiviral drug.
9/2/20209 minutes, 34 seconds
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The police response to right-wing protesters

The Washington Post looks at recent clashes between left- and right-wing protesters and asks whether law enforcement is treating both equally. CNN reviews evidence that militia activity is growing. And a former FBI agent, who previously worked undercover in far-right groups, writes for the Guardian about his recent research, showing a growing alliance between the far right, police officers, and the White House.
9/1/20208 minutes, 55 seconds
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Political pressure casts doubt on FDA’s independence

The Washington Post gives an inside look into how the White House pressured the FDA to rush the approval of convalescent plasma as a treatment for COVID-19, as well as overstate its efficacy. After the tragic death of Chadwick Boseman, the Wall Street Journal has a helpful Q&A about colorectal cancer. And Time says the pandemic has caused delays to preventative screenings that could help diagnose early-stage cancers. ESPN has the details of the NBA and its players union’s plan to support social justice and advance civic engagement. And Slate has a piece about how WNBA players have been protesting against inequality and racial injustice for years.
8/31/20209 minutes, 37 seconds
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What would a second Trump term mean for America?

On the final night of the Republican National Convention, President Trump highlighted his record in office, and painted a dark picture of the country overrun by angry mobs and violence. The Atlantic analyzes the effectiveness of this type of messaging. Politico speaks to top current and former officials at the Department of Homeland Security who say they tried to warn the administration about the rising threat of violent domestic-extremists — but that their concerns fell on deaf ears.  Plus, what would a second term for Trump bring? Fox News explains why the Republican Party decided not to put forward a new platform this year, opting instead to adopt the 2016 platform. In the Atlantic, David Frum lists 13 ideas that he argues unite the Republican Party.  Vox offers an explainer on what a second term could mean for health care. And the Washington Monthly looks at what’s at stake for immigration.
8/28/202011 minutes, 31 seconds
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Pence addresses voters amid a trifecta of crises

Apple News has coverage of the third night of the RNC. The Washington Post is out with a profile of Mike Pence that describes his role in the White House and his relationship with President Trump. The Guardian says Pence can reach voters that Trump struggles to win over himself. ESPN, the Washington Post, and Yahoo Sports roundup a remarkable day in sports, after multiple teams from the NBA and other professional leagues postponed games over the shooting of Jacob Blake by police. Apple News highlights essential reporting of Hurricane Laura which made landfall in southwest Louisiana. An AP reporter hikes into a redwood forest in California and finds that many of the trees survived the recent wildfires.
8/27/202011 minutes, 45 seconds
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The sibling rivalry inside the Trump family

Apple News has the highlights from the second night of the Republican National Convention.   The Washington Post profiles the president’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., and his rise as a cultural icon of the right. The Atlantic has an inside look at the internal rivalries among the Trump siblings and the competition to take over their father’s legacy.   The Washington Post has the story of how scientists have been able to trace a chain of coronavirus infections from a conference in Boston to patients all over the world.   Frustrated athletes, parents, and coaches have questioned the Big Ten Conference commissioner’s decision to cancel all fall sports due to coronavirus concerns. ESPN finds out exactly what happened and examines whether the criticism is justified.
8/26/20209 minutes, 10 seconds
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RNC speakers say suburbs are under threat. Is it true?

Apple News has key takeaways from the first day of the RNC, where a big theme was that America’s suburbs are at risk. Politico reports that the Trump administration has previously supported the removal of exclusionary housing regulations. And Politico reporter Zack Stanton talks to Thomas Sugrue, director of metropolitan studies at New York University, about the evolution of the suburbs and some misunderstandings about these areas. NPR and the Washington Post report that more than half a million mailed ballots were rejected in this year’s primaries. And ABC News says Florida could be a surprising model for states preparing to count more mail-in votes during the election this fall. Plus, some tips from Apple News to make sure your vote counts.   Vox breaks down why the flu vaccine might be more important than ever this year. And NPR  explains how to make sure you get a flu shot.
8/25/202010 minutes, 2 seconds
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How Trump has forever changed the Republican Party

Gerald F. Seib writes for the Wall Street Journal that Donald Trump has fundamentally reshaped the Republican Party. And, in the Washington Post, Ashley Parker says the president’s “outsider” messaging needs to pivot to that of an incumbent.   ProPublica reports that election officials are fielding harassment and threats from both ends of the political spectrum.   The Atlantic has an essay by two Brooklyn high school teachers explaining why they may go on strike over school reopening plans.   And it’s Kobe Bryant Day. The LA Times explains how the Lakers and the wider basketball world are honoring the late star.
8/24/20208 minutes, 56 seconds
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Joe Biden closes out the DNC, while Republicans look ahead

Apple News has a roundup of Democratic National Convention coverage. And Politico describes the lessons Republicans have learned from the DNC as they prepare for their own convention next week. Two weeks after opening, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill announced it would move to remote learning due to a spike in COVID-19 cases. The News & Observer talks with students as they move out of their dorms. GPS is becoming increasingly vulnerable to interference and could be nearing the end of its usefulness. The New Yorker has the story.
8/21/20209 minutes, 44 seconds
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After Kamala Harris wins VP nomination, a look at her record

Roll Call and Politico look at Kamala Harris’s legislative record and her positions on key issues and policies. The Washington Post fact-checks some of the statements Harris made during her presidential campaign. USA Today asks experts why the stock market continues to perform well amid economic and health crises. The Washington Post describes how a heat dome is causing extreme weather across the Southwest.
8/20/202010 minutes, 43 seconds
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A week after severe weather, Iowans feel abandoned

Vox explains the policies that make up the Democratic platform. A news anchor from Iowa tells PBS NewsHour that many residents are still desperate for help, a week after severe weather tore through the state. And in an op-ed for Washington Post, a local newspaper columnist says Iowa has been abandoned by the national media. USA Today breaks down the challenges facing this year’s census and why many experts are concerned about a historic undercount.
8/19/20209 minutes, 3 seconds
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Highlights from the first night of a virtual DNC

Apple News provides a roundup from the first night of this year’s unconventional Democratic National Convention. Bloomberg has some key takeaways from a Census Bureau survey that has been measuring the many ways the coronavirus pandemic has affected people in the U.S. The Wall Street Journal says cities weighing up how to decrease police spending are discovering how hard it is. And Politico looks at how the current economic crisis is already leading to police budget cuts, with unintended consequences. ESPN reports that Miami Heat player Jimmy Butler has started his own coffee business inside the NBA bubble.
8/18/20208 minutes, 41 seconds
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Crisis at the Postal Service ahead of the 2020 election

For further reading on everything related to the U.S. Postal Service: The Washington Post gives an overview of how policy and organizational changes at the U.S. Postal Service could lead to disenfranchisement. BuzzFeed News explains the issues the Postal Service is facing right now, including how a 2006 law contributed to the agency’s financial problems.  The Atlantic says restrictions and reforms introduced by the recently appointed postmaster general are the most significant threat to voting by mail. FiveThirtyEight has a polling roundup that encapsulates how Americans feel about voting by mail. The Associated Press and ABC News describe how a history of disenfranchisement has led to mistrust of mail-in voting among many Black Americans.
8/17/20209 minutes, 38 seconds
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As Congress leaves town without a deal, economists worry

FiveThirtyEight surveys economists about their predictions for the U.S, without a federal stimulus bill. At the start of the pandemic, grocery-store employees were called heroes. The Washington Post talks with workers about what has changed since then. BBC News has the latest on the environmental emergency off the coast of Mauritius, where a Japanese cargo ship has leaked over 1,000 metric tons of oil into the surrounding waters. And Al Jazeera explains how this accident relates to ongoing debates about protections for the most vulnerable parts of our ecosystem. The New Yorker analyzes the video of Gen Z twin brothers discovering “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins and explains why their reaction so perfect.FiveThirtyEight surveys economists about their predictions for the U.S, without a federal stimulus bill. At the start of the pandemic, grocery-store employees were called heroes. The Washington Post talks with workers about what has changed since then. BBC News has the latest on the environmental emergency off the coast of Mauritius, where a Japanese cargo ship has leaked over 1,000 metric tons of oil into the surrounding waters. And Al Jazeera explains how this accident relates to ongoing debates about protections for the most vulnerable parts of our ecosystem. The New Yorker analyzes the video of Gen Z twin brothers discovering “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins and explains why their reaction so perfect.
8/14/20208 minutes, 6 seconds
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This doctor could decide the fate of a coronavirus vaccine

The Washington Post profiles a top Food and Drug Administration official who will decide whether a coronavirus vaccine is safe and effective enough to be given to millions of Americans. Politico has the story of retired West Virginia miners taking political action to get more help to fellow workers with black lung. Vox explains how a stay-at-home mom took on Belarus’s autocratic leader and sparked a democratic movement in Europe’s last remaining dictatorship. Every two years, the German city of Munich puts children in charge of their own mini-city, called Mini-Munich. Fast Company reveals what happens when kids take over.
8/13/20208 minutes, 11 seconds
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Everything you need to know about Kamala Harris

Joe Biden has chosen Kamala Harris as his running mate. Apple News has everything you need to know about the decision. The New Yorker looks at the role Wisconsin farmers could play in November’s election. In O, The Oprah Magazine, Oprah writes about her conversation with Tamika Palmer, Breonna Taylor’s mother. The Marshall Project and the Guardian break down the legal challenges of bringing charges against the officers involved in Taylor’s killing. NPR’s Planet Money reports on an underground operation that has emerged during lockdowns around the country: prohibition gyms.
8/12/20209 minutes, 41 seconds
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How teachers are protecting themselves from COVID-19

As some schools reopen during the coronavirus pandemic, the Wall Street Journal spoke with teachers about their concerns that school districts are not doing enough to protect staff. And Chalkbeat describes the significance of a national teachers union endorsing the use of strikes if the safety of teachers isn’t adequately supported. One year after the ICE raids of poultry-processing plants in Mississippi, CNN looks back on the lingering effects of that day. And the Mississippi Clarion Ledger reports on the lack of consequences for the plants’ executives and upper management, while migrant workers continue to face repercussions. The Washington Post profiles the women who opposed women’s voting rights: the anti-suffragists. In an effort to prevent COVID-19 from reaching Antarctica, fewer scientists are being sent to the continent — which could mean delays for field research, National Geographic says.
8/11/20208 minutes, 25 seconds
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How will the media treat the next female VP candidate?

CNN reports on the increase in part-time work and the number of Americans returning to jobs with fewer hours and less pay. Annie Lowrey points out in the Atlantic that although underemployment existed before the pandemic, the problem is affecting millions more in the current economic crisis. Vanity Fair has the letter written by a group, called “We Have Her Back,” of prominent women advocates calling on the media for more nuanced and fair coverage of Joe Biden’s VP pick. In 1984, Geraldine Ferraro was the first woman to appear on a major party ticket. Politico interviews her daughter Donna Zaccaro about her mother’s candidacy and the current election cycle. The Washington Post profiles the women who opposed women’s voting rights: the anti-suffragists. As the coronavirus spreads in prisons, the Washington Post says compassionate release has been frequently opposed and ignored as a method of letting vulnerable inmates out of these facilities. The Orlando Sentinel reveals that several inmates in Florida who died from COVD-19 were eligible for parole. Amid travel constraints during the pandemic, people around the world are finding creative ways to get to their destination. The Wall Street Journal has the story. Annie Lowrey points out in the Atlantic that although underemployment existed before the pandemic, the problem is affecting millions more in the current economic crisis. Vanity Fair has the letter written by a group, called “We Have Her Back,” of prominent women advocates calling on the media for more nuanced and fair coverage of Joe Biden’s VP pick. In 1984, Geraldine Ferraro was the first woman to appear on a major party ticket. Politico interviews her daughter Donna Zaccaro about her mother’s candidacy and the current election cycle. The Washington Post profiles the women who opposed women’s voting rights: the anti-suffragists. As the coronavirus spreads in prisons, the Washington Post says compassionate release has been frequently opposed and ignored as a method of letting vulnerable inmates out of these facilities. The Orlando Sentinel reveals that several inmates in Florida who died from COVD-19 were eligible for parole. Amid travel constraints during the pandemic, people around the world are finding creative ways to get to their destination. The Wall Street Journal has the story.
8/10/20208 minutes, 36 seconds
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Why 1 in 13 Black adults can’t vote

NPR reports on the recent executive order signed by Iowa’s governor restoring the right to vote to Iowans convicted of felonies. And the Guardian gives an overview of a controversial bill in Florida that limits the voting rights of those with a felony conviction.  PBS NewsHour has an interview with author Anne Applebaum on the rise of authoritarian regimes during the pandemic. Washington Post columnist George Will echoes her concerns and argues the shift is motivated by both ends of the political spectrum. The Washington Post looks at how low health literacy has become an even larger problem as doctors and health officials communicate information about COVID-19. The Wall Street Journal has the story of how Eddy Alvarez went from Olympic speedskater to professional baseball player.
8/7/20207 minutes, 51 seconds
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Lebanon faces a crisis within a crisis

After the devastating explosion in Beirut, BBC News provides an overview of the economic, political, and health crises Lebanon has faced leading up to this point. And Al Jazeera speaks to Beirut residents about their experiences of the recent incident. Apple News has a collection of Lebanon coverage. Politico looks at how U.S. governors have responded to the coronavirus pandemic in their states. The Atlantic says COVID-19 will continue to exist after the pandemic has ended. The U.S. dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima 75 years ago. The Washington Post has the story of an American who was a child in the Japanese city that day.
8/6/20208 minutes, 33 seconds
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Lessons from the 2020 primaries

Most primaries have run smoothly this year, FiveThirtyEight finds. The New Yorker highlights one government institution that has had a successful pandemic: the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  The Wall Street Journal describes how parents and educators are creating “pandemic pods” that are more inclusive. And NPR says forests are on the move.
8/5/20208 minutes, 10 seconds
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The failed American COVID-19 response, ballot delays, life on a private jet

Ed Yong writes for the Atlantic about America’s failure to control the spread of COVID-19, and the changes that would better prepare this country for future pandemics. As the election approaches, the Washington Post reports on concerns that new Postal Service rules could lead to delivery delays and uncounted ballots. And Vice News has the story of post offices notifying the public of closures and reduced hours, only to abruptly walk back those announcements. An essay from BuzzFeed News explores the unsustainable combination of parenting while working from home. Bloomberg Businessweek gives an inside look at the ultra-rich who fly on private jets.
8/4/20208 minutes, 15 seconds
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Coronavirus lawsuits, the declining birth rate, teenagers work the polls

The Wall Street Journal says lawsuits have been filed against employers across the country over worker deaths from COVID-19. Bloomberg Businessweek examines the potential for a significant decrease in U.S. births next year and asks what it could mean for the future economy. One hundred years after women won the right to vote, Smithsonian Magazine describes the challenges the first female voters faced when trying to cast their ballots. CNN suggests one possible solution to the poll worker shortage: teenagers.
8/3/20208 minutes, 5 seconds
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$600 on the line, Supreme Court secrets, Van Gogh’s final days

The Wall Street Journal asks whether the weekly $600 in unemployment aid is disincentivizing people from rejoining the workforce. And PBS NewsHour has economists on both sides of the aisle weigh in on the debate. CNN obtains internal memos that reveal the inner workings of this year’s Supreme Court deliberations. Read the four-part series: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4. Journalists at the San Francisco Chronicle follow Theo, a 7-year-old boy who’s been homeless his whole life. And a new discovery about Vincent Van Gogh’s final painting. Newsweek has the story. 
7/31/20208 minutes, 38 seconds
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Have we grown numb to the soaring U.S. death toll?

As the United States surpasses 150,000 coronavirus deaths, NPR explains why people become numb to statistics.  The Wall Street Journal explores how colleges are attempting to get ready for fall classes. As NASA prepares to send a rover to Mars, the Verge describes its goals for the mission. Rudy Gobert speaks with the Washington Post about the upcoming NBA season and what it’s like to be known as the league’s Patient Zero.
7/30/20208 minutes, 27 seconds
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The U.S. has a child care crisis

POLITICO has an interview with labor economist Betsey Stevenson, who warns that the pandemic-era child care crisis will change the economy for decades to come. NPR reports that millions of Americans are struggling to pay their utility bills as moratoriums on payments expire. And Bloomberg explores the implications of a heat wave during the pandemic. Vanity Fair explains the rise of TikTok and the new class of celebrity the app has created. The LA Times describes why some TikTok stars have announced they’re leaving the platform. And the Wall Street Journal has an exclusive on Instagram’s efforts to recruit TikTok creators for its future service Reels.  Pop-culture writer Joe Berkowitz at Fast Company has a theory that a shortage of new TV shows could be beneficial.
7/29/20208 minutes, 25 seconds
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Biden's choice

Ryan Lizza for POLITICO analyzes the field of possible contenders for Joe Biden’s vice presidential nominee. Many people are taking advantage of the country’s national parks to get outdoors amid the coronavirus pandemic. But TIME reports that visitors are failing to socially distance, leaving behind trash, and disregarding the surrounding communities. Sports Illustrated and the Ringer have stories about the outbreak of the virus in Major League Baseball, focusing on how the league’s lack of precautions led to this point. Plus, Bloomberg provides some helpful tips for people concerned about facing unemployment.
7/28/20208 minutes, 42 seconds
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The federal response to protests

In an essay for the New Yorker, Masha Gessen delivers an ominous warning about the Department of Homeland Security under President Trump. Hannah Dreier profiles a police officer in Huntsville, Alabama, for the Washington Post as part of a focus on how cops respond to mental-health calls. CNN says Eugene, Oregon, shows one way a town can shift responsibility for mental health off of its police department. Thirty years after the passage of the Americans With Disabilities Act, TIME reflects on the challenges still faced by people with disabilities in the U.S. And Fast Company examines why so much of our infrastructure is still not ADA-compliant. And if you’re having trouble making sense of the latest political polls, WIRED and FiveThirtyEight have useful guides ahead of November’s elections.
7/27/20208 minutes, 59 seconds
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Climate change and the looming migration crisis

ProPublica and the New York Times Magazine report on the urgency of the global migration crisis as climate change forces millions from their homelands. POLITICO and the Washington Post explain how a divided Congress was able to pass a bipartisan conservation bill to guarantee $900 million every year toward maintaining American public lands. As Confederate monuments fall across the country, the Wall Street Journal looks into where these rejected memorials are ending up. And Dahlia Lithwick and Molly Olmstead for Slate talk with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg about being one of 10 women in the Harvard Law School class of 1959.
7/24/20207 minutes, 49 seconds
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Portland's “Wall of Moms”

Bloomberg and USA Today say a record number of lawsuits are being filed ahead of November’s elections. The Atlantic and the Marshall Project highlight the power of restorative justice — and its limitations. As protests escalate in Portland, Oregon, the Washington Post speaks to the women forming the city’s “Wall of Moms”, who are demanding an end to the federal response. And today is opening day for Major League Baseball. The Ringer asks whether a shortened season might be better for the sport.
7/23/20208 minutes, 49 seconds
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Hackers target vaccine research

As concerns over foreign hackers targeting U.S. vaccine research increase, congressional Republicans are introducing legislation to beef up enforcement. But with the world’s nations pushing for a coronavirus vaccine, POLITICO Magazine says this arms-race approach might be counterproductive. The Washington Post has an op-ed signed by the leaders of eight nations, calling for international cooperation in developing a vaccine. And a cybersecurity expert tells PBS NewsHour he’s not concerned about hackers trying to gain access to vaccine research. China and the U.S. are launching competing Mars probes in a modern-day space race, the Wall Street Journal reports. National Geographic charts the evolution of the vice presidency. And the Atlantic proposes that Joe Biden’s VP pick could be the most influential in history. Finally, the Washington Post brings us an interview with an original Rosie the Riveter.
7/22/20208 minutes, 26 seconds
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Coronavirus vaccine trials show encouraging results

In the race to bring a coronavirus vaccine to market, Oxford University may be winning. Bloomberg Businessweek has a profile on the researcher who has been prepping for this moment for decades. As school districts around the country debate holding in-person classes this fall, a growing trend points to wealthier families taking matters into their own hands. The Washington Post reports on the rise of “micro-schooling.” GQ profiles Atlanta rapper Killer Mike about his complicated political identity and his fight for racial justice and Black prosperity. And from the L.A. Times, a review of Alex Trebek’s new memoir, and how the Jeopardy! host’s battle with cancer has punctuated a legendary career.
7/21/20207 minutes, 32 seconds
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America honors John Lewis

On today’s show, we reflect on the life and legacy of the civil-rights icon and 17-term congressman. Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, and Apple News editors collected some of the best ones in this Spotlight Collection. Plus, Vox compiled six of his most memorable speeches; and New York Magazine shares one of the Congressman’s last interviews before his death as he reflects on the Black Lives Matter protests. Political analyst Perry Bacon Jr. charts the new and shifting landscape of Black politics for FiveThirtyEight. In Portland, Oregon, federal authorities have cracked down on protesters. NPR and Oregon Public Broadcasting explain how tensions reached this point. And the Washington Post offers analysis on the legality of this escalation of force by the federal government. And, Smithsonian Magazine brings us a list of scientific breakthroughs that were achieved during quarantine, by researchers mostly working from home.
7/20/20208 minutes, 6 seconds
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Two very different environmental plans

Welcome to Apple News Today, a new show from Apple News. In today's episode:President Trump and Joe Biden are offering two different visions for environmental policy. The Wall Street Journal breaks down their plans.After a week in which members of the White House came out against Dr. Anthony Fauci, the infectious-diseases expert sat down for interviews with the Atlantic and InStyle. The Los Angeles Times is out with an investigation into a Qatari prince’s California college education. And NPR’s Planet Money makes the case for getting rid of the penny.
7/17/20209 minutes, 24 seconds
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The cost of voting in a pandemic

Welcome to Apple News Today, a new show from Apple News. In today's episode:USA Today and Columbia Journalism Investigations look at how states and counties are running short on funds to hold elections. The city of Asheville, North Carolina, takes a step toward reparations. The News & Observer has the story. And Business Insider tracks how reparations are perceived on a national scale. According to Scientific American, humans aren’t the only animals who practice social distancing.And Condé Nast Traveler says Iceland is giving us all permission to scream.
7/16/20207 minutes, 45 seconds
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Apple News Today

Get all the day’s news in less than 15 minutes. Start your day with Apple News Today.
7/15/20201 minute, 5 seconds
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Introducing Apple News Today

Every weekday morning, hosts Shumita Basu and Duarte Geraldino bring you up to speed on top headlines and discuss some of the most fascinating stories in the news. You can find links to everything mentioned in today’s show right here.Some of the country’s largest school districts are abandoning plans for in-person classes this fall. The Atlantic hears from former government officials on what steps could be taken to get students back in class. And Vox offers an explainer on the debate behind reopening schools.Alabama Republicans voted Tuesday in a runoff election that effectively ended Jeff Sessions’s political career. The Washington Post examines the former attorney general’s rise and fall. With extra unemployment benefits set to expire in two weeks, The New Yorker looks at how one California town is trying to offset poverty through a universal basic income program. And from Bloomberg Businessweek, a story about why our dogs won’t be happy when the pandemic is over.
7/15/20208 minutes, 31 seconds