Welcome to the refreshed TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe Heavy traffic is seen around Tehran as many people flee Iran’s capital. / BBC News A visual guide to the nuclear
If you enjoy TMN, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe Iran has been urgently signaling that it wants an end to hostilities and resumption of talks over its nuclear program. / The Wall Street Journal [$] Jeffrey Lewis: The
Thanks for reading TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe Israel launches a massive attack against Iran and its nuclear program that is likely to last “many days.” / The Guardian US officials
If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe The United States now spends far more on immigration enforcement than on preventing violent crime, terrorism, tax fraud—or all of those combined. / Marginal Revolution An
If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe “No Kings” protests are being planned across the country for Saturday’s Flag Day, which is also Trump’s birthday. / Newsweek Texas Gov. Abbott says the
Welcome to the new TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe As Trump dispatches marines to Los Angeles, protests over immigration raids spread to Texas, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. / BBC News What’s
California is seeking to reverse Trump’s move to “federalize” the state’s National Guard, arguing the act breaks the 10th Amendment. / Politico See also: “If the Trump-Hegseth threats have little purpose as law enforcement, they signify great purpose as political strategy.” For Trump, this is a dress rehearsal. / The
Welcome to the refreshed TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe Finding themselves unable to accomplish any of their essential tasks, federal officials are rushing to rehire many of the workers DOGE
Welcome to the refreshed TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe A former ICE chief of staff says to get the immigration detention numbers Stephen Miller wants—3,000 a day—will
Welcome to the new TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe The CBO estimates Trump’s bill will cut taxes by $3.7 trillion, add $2.4 trillion to deficits, and leave
Hello and thank you for reading! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe A map shows where the Trump Organization has expanded internationally since the 2024 election. / The Wall Street Journal [$] The White
Welcome to the new TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe The alarms are sounding for those worried about privacy and intent as the Trump administration begins combining detailed data on Americans
Welcome to the refreshed TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe The citations to the 500-plus studies referenced in RFK’s “Make America Healthy Again” report are riddled with errors and misstated
Welcome to the refreshed TMN! If you enjoy these headlines, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe Trump’s tariffs are ruled illegal in a sweeping ruling from a federal judicial panel. / Reuters Trump dislikes Wall Street’s
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RFK Jr. said he wouldn’t “take away anybody's vaccines,” but HHS’s new regulatory moves do just that by altering who can access—or possibly afford—Covid shots. / NBC News, NPR The White House and many Congressional Republicans have all but stopped talking about Elon Musk. / Politico
Welcome back to the refreshed TMN! As a reminder, we depend on your support. So if you enjoy what we do, please join us as a Sustaining Member to keep this newsletter running, plus unlock access to paywalled links. Subscribe “Call it the French Watergate.” A scandal involving Perrier threatens
Hello and welcome to the refreshed TMN! If you enjoy this newsletter, please join us as a Sustaining Member to support what we do and get unlocked access to paywalled links. Subscribe With this weekend’s presidential election, Romania joins 2025’s growing number of nations where a Trump-aligned candidate
Researchers attempting to explain why the universe exists are studying neutrinos in underground “cathedrals to science.” / BBC News New therapeutic strategies for cancer are beginning to emerge, “providing safer, more targeted delivery directly to tumors.” / Undark Magazine Chinese scientists have a new way of extracting uranium from seawater. / New Scientist
Scientists say the universe is expected to decay in 10⁷⁸ years, “much sooner than previously thought.” / Phys.org Meanwhile, the United States and China agree to a 90-day pause on tariffs. / Reuters Regarding the new foreign plane for President Trump, the crypto deals and golf courses—is it all so
“Some of what Trump calls good news, like the falling price of oil, is actually caused by bad news, which is the world expecting the possibility of a global recession.” / The Washington Post Already an ethical catastrophe, Trump’s private dinner for top memecoin holders is becoming even suspect, as
In India and Pakistan, both countries “know that the real danger is the specter of uncontrolled escalation.” / Dawn Experts weigh whether India’s new rules for satellite internet operators will thwart Amazon’s Project Kuiper and Elon Musk’s Starlink. / rest of world Stockholm scoffs at a US letter demanding
India launches missile strikes in several parts of Pakistan and Pakistan-controlled territory. / The Guardian Pakistan claims to have shot down five Indian jets. / CNN A hospital bombing raises concerns that South Sudan may return to civil war. / UN News Immigration advocates warn of a potential mass immigration enforcement operation in
Latin America is reportedly the only place right now where traditional right-wing economics is on the upswing. / Semafor Saudi Arabia’s budget deficit jumped in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a sharp drop in oil revenues. / Arabian Gulf Business Insight The conservative leader Friedrich Merz wins a parliament
Israel has reportedly approved plans to seize control of the entire Gaza Strip and occupy the region for an indefinite period of time. / Associated Press One of Pope Francis’s final requests was to retrofit one of his popemobiles to provide frontline health care “for the children of Gaza.” / BBC
"At the heart of the 11-page agreement is a joint investment fund that is intended to help rebuild Ukraine once the Russian invasion...ends." What's in the US-Ukraine minerals agreement. / Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty Experts cite a spike in postponed container ships previously set to
Tesla board members reportedly spent the last month looking for a new CEO to replace Elon Musk. / The Wall Street Journal [+] For its part, Tesla denies the story. / The Guardian Plunging trade means the port of Los Angeles will see shipping volume drop 35% next week. / CNBC A tour through
Pakistan may reach the global April heat record of 122 degrees Fahrenheit this week. / The Washington Post [+] India and Pakistan are said to be periously close to military conflict (once again). / Foreign Affairs India pushes mining groups to pursue reserves in the "lithium triangle" between Argentina, Bolivia, and
Power is slowly returning after a massive power outage in Spain and Portugal. / The Guardian Meanwhile, Spain's electricity grid recently ran entirely on renewable energy for the first time. / pv magazine President Trump's meme coin has "eviscerated the boundary between private enterprise and government policy.
HHS says there won't be an autism registry, walking back NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya's controversial announcement from earlier this week. / STAT As government and fringe groups—kind of the same thing right now—promote the pseudoscience of eugenics, geneticists must take a stand. / Nature The Dept.
Russia hits Kyiv with missiles and drones, one of the deadliest attacks on the capital since last year. / The Kyiv Independent A tunnel between Denmark and Germany will link 90 individual segments, piece by piece, "like Lego bricks." / BBC News Italy's transformation into "a recycling
The trade war between Washington and Beijing looks good for African nations. / Semafor From February, a round-up of China's top trading partners on the continent. / China Global South Fourteen reasons why tariffs won't bring manufacturing back to the United States—among them: "most Americans are
The dollar falls to a three-year low, as a trade war and threats against the Federal Reserve drive "Sell America" trades. / Semafor Andrew Burmon: If the fig leaf of prestige falls, the upper middle class will discover how angry it is at "the misalignment of their expectations
Pope Francis has died at 88, "the first [pope] in generations to make the Vatican feel less like a fortress and more like a field hospital." / Migrant Insider The Bush administration argued Guantanamo should be beyond the reach of the courts; CECOT is the Trump administration's
Staffing cuts at HHS will apparently force the FDA to suspend its network of labs that test food for pathogens and contaminants. / Reuters World Health Organization members agree on a treaty to prevent pandemic disorganization and competition for resources—"the US will not be bound by the pact when
Chinese President Xi Jinping wraps up a Southeast Asia tour to strengthen already robust trade relations. / The Associated Press Goldman Sachs says a decoupling of the United States and China may cost the US $2.5 trillion. / The South China Morning Post The World Trade Organization expects trade of merchandise
A day in the life of northeastern Ukraine, where there are no signs Vladimir Putin wants to end his war. / The New York Times [+] A whistleblower explains that as DOGE staffers exfiltrated data, someone in Russia followed them through the door. / NPR Related: The EU issues burner phones to officials
The Nile's migratory birds are threatened by tourists' poaching habits. "Maltese hunters take everything." / The New Arab New technologies are helping to regrow Arctic sea ice, but they remain controversial. / Grist El Salvador President Nayib Bukele says he can't return a mistakenly deported
The man arrested for breaking into and setting a fire in the Pennsylvania governor's mansion planned to beat Gov. Shapiro with a small sledgehammer. / AP The Trump administration is privately discussing how to "denaturalize American citizens and deport them to other countries, including El Salvador." / Rolling
"The Trump administration believes it has what game theorists call escalation dominance over China... [but] it is China that has escalation dominance in this trade war." / Foreign Affairs The EU and China are in talks to set minimum prices on Chinese-made EVs, six months after Brussels raised tariffs
Analysts say President Trump's pause on some tariff measures "upends any pretence that we understand his strategy." / ING Meanwhile, Trump now faces accusations of market manipulation. / Al Jazeera From the Financial Times: "We now know the market has Trump on a leash, and we have
The world used clean power to meet more than 40% of its electricity demand last year. / The Guardian Between 1999 and 2023, heat deaths in the United States more than doubled. / Grist Lithium-ion batteries became the leading cause of fire deaths in New York City last year—how LA removed
President Trump plans an expensive military parade for his 79th birthday. / Washington City Paper Economic tensions with the United States' trading partners begin to escalate. / Semafor Tariffs may not make other countries respect the US, "but they can make them move on without it." / The Atlantic A
Trump often blames popular resistance to his policies as bad polling, but the size and scope of the Hands Off protests were far too large to be the product of faulty data. / Strength in Numbers The Israeli military walks back its account of killing 15 Palestinian medics after video contradicts
About 70 percent of adults in the United States say they are following news about the White House. / Pew Research The administration plans to build a new "war-fighting headquarters" in Japan to deter China. / NBC News President Trump says he is not joking about running for a third
Canada's Prime Minister says the country's old relationship with the United States, "is over." / BBC News An alliance providing vaccines to poor communities says a loss of US funding would potentially cause a million-plus deaths. / The Associated Press Scientists are stunned that a long-discredited
The European Union tells residents to stockpile 72 hours of food in readiness for war. / Politico The week's long read: A reasonably condensed version of one person's saga of escaping Iran for the United States. / Outliving Iran Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza protest against Hamas. / The
Russia agrees to a ceasefire in the Black Sea following talks in Saudi Arabia, then almost immediately demands new terms. / Semafor See also: President Donald Trump receives a new portrait from Vladimir Putin. / BBC News Consumer confidence in the United States falls to a four-year low. / Al Jazeera The US
A Palestinian director of this year's Oscar-winning documentary is arrested by the Israeli army after masked settlers attack his house. / The Guardian In the fallout of a journalist being added to a Signal group discussing White House war plans, a lot of loathing for Europe is made public.
Turkey takes a step toward full autocracy after President Erdoğan jails his main political rival. / Politico The Turkish government says 1,133 people have been arrested after five days of protests across the country. / BBC News High-profile US officials are planning to visit Greenland this week, reviving concerns. / The Guardian
The Sudanese army says it has recaptured the presidential palace in Khartoum after nearly two years of fighting. / BBC News An explainer for how Germany's "fiscal flip" this week stunned Europe's diplomats. / Politico Unrelated: Photographs from Berlin's feminist noise-punk scene. / VICE London&
European leaders gather to find the money and rules needed to turn the bloc into a military superpower. / Politico Hungary passes a law banning any pride marches held by the LGBTQ+ community. / BBC News President Trump removes all democrats from the board of the Federal Trade Commission. / Vox Tesla protesters
Hundreds of Palestinians are killed after Israel resumes its war on Gaza. / Al Jazeera Peru declares another state of emergency in Lima over a crime wave. / Reuters Investors are slashing holdings of American equities by the most on record. / yahoo! Finance Military websites are scrubbing stories about Native American Code
A reporter in Canada explains how furious people are with the United States. / Vox "If you are not a citizen of the US, and you are going through an immigration process, your first thought needs to be: How can this process be weaponized against me?" / USA Today The
Greenlanders vote to rebuff President Trump's bid to control their island. / BBC News Chinese automaker BYD delivers more fully electric vehicles than Tesla for the first time in the fourth quarter. / rest of world Related: Some thoughts about "inventive arrays of everyday small vehicles" in Shanghai.
Ukraine says it is ready to accept a US-led proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia. / BBC News A separatist militant group in Pakistan says it has taken 214 hostages after hijacking a train. / The New York Times [+] The West is said to have bet on the wrong technologies in
Secretary of State Rubio says there's "no military solution" to resolving Russia's invasion of Ukraine. / The Guardian A Ukranian newspaper uncovers how Russian defense manufacturers are covertly buying American microchips. / The Kyiv Independent Historian Stephen Kotkin: Trump may be wrong in his analysis of
Since Trump's inauguration, records show multiple incidents of violence have erupted at Tesla facilities in the US, including one person who tossed molotov cocktails at vehicles. / The Washington Post [+] See also: At a dealership in France, more than a dozen Teslas were ignited in an apparent act of
Why may President Trump's $880 billion in spending cuts come from Medicaid? Because otherwise the math doesn't add up. / The 19th A now-deleted list of government properties for sale includes a secretive CIA facility. / WIRED Related: How Trump's efforts to cut environmental red tape
The 2025 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes, is now live. / Field Notes, The Tournament of Books Denmark's postal service plans to end all letter deliveries at the end of 2025. / BBC News Russia is working hard to hold on to its military bases in Syria. / The
President Trump delivers the longest presidential address to a joint session in history. Some factchecking for his main statements. / Slate, The Guardian An ongoing tragedy in the United States? The "billionaire paradox" wherein "a small elite sacrifice both democratic principles and economic growth on the altar of
Stock markets fall after President Trump imposes tariffs on goods from China, Canada, and Mexico. / BBC News Some reactions in Ukraine after Trump halts all aid. / The Kyiv Independent A study finds nearly half of US voters aren't interested in buying a Tesla after recent events. / The San
Germany's incoming chancellor says Donald Trump's Oval Office clash with Zelenskiy was an obvious trap. / Reuters Secretary of State Rubio is believed to have canceled aid programs without review, knowing it would cause immediate deaths. / ProPublica A source says FAA officials ordered staff to find tens
In Washington, the Democratic Party is historically unpopular—and on track to retake the House of Representatives in 2026. / Vox Why the DOGE takeover is worse than we realize: Agencies are being dismantled, but we haven't felt the ripples of that—at least not yet. / WIRED Most of
European Commission leaders go to India in a bid to strengthen trade ties. / Semafor Around a billion people in India lack enough money to spend on discretionary goods or services. / BBC News Natalia Antelava says Vladimir Putin has scripted a new ending to the Cold War. / coda Some reasons why
South Korea's fertility rate rises for the first time in nine years, supported by an increase in marriages. / Reuters Denmark's economy is one of Europe's fastest-growing thanks to Novo Nordisk's Wegovy and Ozempic drugs. / BBC News Brooke Harrington: Trust in government to
Ukrainian and American negotiators are said to be in the final stages of a minerals deal. / The New York Times [+] The White House's mixed signals on Russia and Ukraine may reflect an internal strategic clash. / Just Security Facilities in Mississippi and Texas are holding the most detained immigrants.
Economists say the DOGE purge of federal workers could trigger local recessions, and how bad it gets depends on the scale of the layoffs, which is still unknown. / CNBC An explainer on how the billions in cuts that DOGE's public ledger claims to have uncovered are riddled with
The White House and the Treasury will restrict DOGE's taxpayer access to read-only, anonymized data—the same as what academic researchers and IRS IT professionals can see. / The Washington Post [+] See also: Finally, my tax dollars are being used to uncover publicly available government information. / McSweeney's
Five trends that will shape urban Africa in 2025—e.g., the Addis Ababa model. / The Week in Africa William Shoki: Elon Musk's opinions about South Africa want to reinforce the idea that black political power is threatening. / Africa Is a Country How to understand President Trump best?
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is charged with leading a plot to overthrow the government. / Reuters Argentina's president tries to deflect criticism after a cryptocurrency he endorsed on X collapses, erasing $4 billion in value. / The Wall Street Journal [+] President Trump suggests Kyiv is to blame for Russia&
Scientists worry about the politicization of vital statistics. / Undark Magazine Connecting the dots between Vice President Vance's recent "Nazi apologia" and his artificial-intelligence boosterism. / Forever Wars See also: Thanks to under-moderated social platforms, anyone can write their own Mein Kampf now. / Garbage Day "What Google
Even as a decline in illegal border crossings is a gift for Trump, it makes it harder for ICE to put up the arrest and deportation numbers it wants. / The Washington Post [+] More journalists were killed in 2024 than ever before, and Israel was responsible for two-thirds of those deaths.
A central aspect of negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war is that the US would provide Ukraine with post-war security in exchange for access to rare earth minerals. / Reuters See also: "Even now, most Ukrainians see continuing to fight as incomparably better than the terror of Russian occupation."
Historians say the United States is on the cusp of "competitive authoritarianism." / Foreign Affairs Chris Geidner: Trump and Musk are trying to sell America on being an authoritarian state, "but they can't do it unless we allow them to do so." / LAWdork The State
The playbook on how to win influence over President Trump is well known—and it still works. / Wake Up to Politics Law professors explain what happens if the White House ignores the courts. / NPR Benjamin Wittes: How effective can judges be in this task? Courts, after all, don't
M. Gessen explains the five categories of arguments people use when they engage in "anticipatory obedience." / The New York Times [+] Spencer Ackerman: Regarding Palestinians, Donald Trump is "a fulfillment of longstanding currents in American history." / Forever Wars A trend forecaster plots the chart between Brat Summer
It wasn't until 2021 that the US included domestic extremism in its counterterrorism scope; Trump's pardons of insurrectionists calls into question who counts as a terrorist now. / ProPublica How to access the full data.gov archive, which as of now contains 311,000 datasets harvested in
As Israel prepares to move ahead with Trump's plan to remove Palestinians from Gaza, Egypt says doing so may threaten its peace deal with Israel. / AP A leading climatologist says limiting global warming to two degrees Celsius by 2100 is no longer possible, calling that target from the
Studies suggest people often prefer AI-generated content to human-generated material, or can't tell the difference. / Allure See also: A clamshell keyboard that turns phones into laptops. / dezeen A former Instagram researcher says Meta not only doesn't understand how friendship works, it doesn't care. / Meets
Thousands of residents flee the Greek island of Santorini after earthquakes are recorded for a fourth consecutive day. / BBC News Sweden suffers its worst school shooting, with at least 11 people killed. / Al Jazeera A growing number of countries are forging economic partnerships without the United States. / The New York
Pictures from the recent "day without immigrants" protests, mostly organized on social media. / The Los Angeles Times China responds to tariffs with export restrictions and surcharges on American coal and gas. / Semafor India extracts more groundwater than any other country worldwide, more than the US and China combined.
"Commentators should please stop using words such as 'digital' and 'progress' and 'efficiency' and 'vision' when describing this coup attempt." / Thinking about... Related: The engineers playing a key role in Elon Musk's attempt to dismantle federal infrastructure are
It's no longer enough to measure income gaps to depict inequality; now, wealth gaps paint a far bleaker picture of American prosperity. / The Conversation See also: The wildfires exposed a truth about how power operates in Los Angeles: "No city is more in need of its next
A technical glitch prevented yesterday's edition from mailing—our apologies! More than half a million displaced Palestinians have returned to northern Gaza. / Al Jazeera Kenyans ranked as the most optimistic people on the planet in 2002—an overview of their hope ever since. / Africa Is a Country No
Human-like fossils found in China appear to have extremely large brains, bigger than ours. / RNZ A study finds 55 percent of American 18 to 34-year-olds approve of the use of violence, property damage, or misinformation to enact change. / VICE College enrollment in the United States increased this fall, exceeding pre-pandemic
Something that's getting lost in yesterday's was-it-or-wasn't-it US-Colombia trade war: "Colombia accepted 475 deportation flights from the US from 2020 to 2024." / AP And also: Because Trump wants to use military—not civilian—flights to transport deportees, "American taxpayers are paying
With the inauguration of Trump's second term, the Doomsday Clock will move forward next week. / The Nation See also: A subreddit that provides "the perfect soundtrack for your personal apocalypse." / r/CollapseMusic Unrelated: When a scientist convinced members of the San Francisco 49ers to ingest radioactive
Biden's cabinet had a combined net worth of around $120 million, which is absolutely dwarfed by the $20 billion net worth of Trump's presumptive cabinet. / The Intercept Spencer Ackerman: What starts as temporary, emergency measures tend to become fixed in the firmament of American governance and
A round-up of President Trump's first day back in office, playing "ping-pong between the serious and the stunning." / The Wall Street Journal [+] Trump's political urgency may be slowed "by a more languid Congress." / Semafor The United States military debates possible deployment on
The CDC is urging labs to accelerate testing patients hospitalized with flu to determine whether they have seasonal influenza or bird flu. / NBC News The future of the West Coast is "hydroclimate whiplash," where, for example, mudslides are the result of wildfires followed by intense storms. / Defector See
Qatar, Egypt, and the United States announce a cease-fire deal, though Israel has yet to convene ministers to discuss it. / Reuters Ilan Goldenberg: The most realistic scenario is that Hamas and Israel paper over their differences on post-conflict governance. / The Contrarian Fires continue to burn in Los Angeles, and conspiracy
Yoon Suk Yeol becomes South Korea's first sitting president to be arrested. / BBC News Stories from inside "Shein village," factories that supply the world's largest fast fashion retailer. / BBC News Spain has experienced a migration of outsiders thanks to its golden visa program, which
The National Weather Service issues a "particularly dangerous situation" warning for Southern California. / NPR Since 2021, state authorities have declined to fund wildfire prevention efforts in communities devastated by the Palisades fire. / The Los Angeles Times "Altadena Girls," a recovery fund for LA teenagers, is run
There are now at least 24 dead in the Los Angeles wildfires, with increasing winds bringing the potential this week for "explosive fire growth." / Los Angeles Times "We're feeling the magnitude of shared suffering." TMN's Rosecrans Baldwin on the injustice of the
Even as calm winds are providing firefighters in Los Angeles a chance to get ahead of the wildfires, forecasts show more rounds of wind are on the way. / Accuweather As bad as the stress is right now for Angelenos, erroneous emergency alerts urging evacuations are only adding to the trauma.
California Governor Gavin Newsom says "there's no fire season—it's fire year." / The Los Angeles Times A climate reporter in Pacific Palisades relates what it was like to lose her home. Similar: watching your home burn on a Ring camera. / New York Magazine, Curbed
Migrants who successfully reach the United States use TikTok to document their new lives. / The New Yorker New documents reveal how the CIA monitored Latino civil rights pioneers. / axios The Heritage Foundation wants to "identify and target" editors at Wikipedia who it says are "abusing their position.
An Italian village forbids its residents from becoming ill—to highlight the country's decimated healthcare system. / BBC News Unhoused people explain what it's like when city workers trash their belongings. / ProPublica New and ongoing programs may be solving Los Angeles's biggest problems: traffic and
"Technically, all pandemic flus start as bird flus." Everything you never wanted to know about H5N1. / Astral Codex Ten Following the user exodus from X, Russia's "Matryoshka" disinformation network heads to Bluesky, posting videos to undermine US support of Ukraine. / The Insider A violent
"Of those 200 casualties, only 10 were confirmed as known Hamas operatives." Interviews with active-duty IDF soldiers about what's really happening in Gaza. (Content warning) / Haaretz See also: 10 conflicts to watch in 2025. / International Crisis Group As Biden departs office, a federal appeals court strikes
Tis the season... for a list of causes favored by TMN and friends. We'll see you again on January 3, 2025. Peace. The Freedom to Read Foundation protects the public's right to access information and materials in libraries without limitations. / Freedom to Read Foundation Survival International
In an unwritten, unannounced policy change, Louisiana's Dept. of Health is forbidding employees from promoting Covid, flu, or mpox vaccines. / NPR Photos of daily life for the Palestinian people—"before all hell broke loose"—by Adam Rouhana. / VICE An interactive exploration of data from the Fort
Jamelle Bouie: It's time the Democrats take up the mantle of an opposition party, if they even understand what that means. / The New York Times [+] Texas Gov. Abbott has purchased billboards in Mexico and Central America warning migrants they risk being raped if they cross the border. / San
The Department of Homeland Security says China, Russia, Iran, and Israel are spying on Americans through their phones. / 404 Media Cybersecurity officials are worried about Trump's transition team relying on private emails that can be hacked. / Politico An eye-opening look at how and why right-wing trolls are blaming
Deforestation of the Amazon in Brazil has been halved once again, thanks to president Lula da Silva. / Sustainability by numbers New studies find our skin can generate antibodies, independent of the rest of our immune system. / Nature Today's theories about the shape of the universe are thought to
Ukraine claims the killiing of Russia's head of chemical, biological, and radiological weapons with a bomb attack in Moscow. / The Kyiv Independent After many reforms, Argentina exits its deep recession. / CNN Executives in the billionaire-protection industry say business is up. / Bloomberg [+] Related: A brief history of superyachts—and
In agreeing to give $15 million to Trump's presidential library to settle a defamation lawsuit, ABC News broke the first rule of resisting autocracy: "Don't obey in advance." / AP, American Crisis Related: "Trump and his picks threaten more lawsuits over critical coverage."
Raw milk consumption hasn't been linked to H5N1; still, a Marin County toddler who drank raw milk fell ill with some kind of influenza-like illness, just not bird flu. / STAT "This idea of progress acknowledges that as soon as we have something...we see its flaws."
President-elect Trump invites Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend his inauguration next month. / CBS News Some Democrats regret going sour on Elon Musk. Meta gives $1 million to Trump's inauguration fund. / Politico, The Wall Street Journal [+] President Biden will commute the sentences of around 1,500 people. / Reuters
Which economy did best in 2024? Spain, Ireland, and Denmark. / The Economist "How has this year been for you?" Some responses from Palestinians. / The London Review of Books A photographic tour of Bashar al-Assad's presidential palace. / The Wall Street Journal [+] Once again, a massive wildfire has
Israel carries out large-scale attacks across Syria, targeting airports and strategic military infrastructure. / Al Jazeera The United States carries out dozens of airstrikes on over 75 Islamic State targets. / Politico Anne Applebaum: The end of the Assad regime creates something new, and not only in Syria. / The Atlantic [+] Thoughts on
The USDA finally orders testing of the nation's milk supply for bird flu, with the initial round of tests to begin in mid-December. / NBC News The District of Columbia is suing Amazon for neglecting to provide Prime deliveries to two predominantly Black neighborhoods, while still charging customers for
In a new study, bird flu is found to be one mutation away from becoming more easily transmitted between humans. / Scientific American The European Space Agency has launched a pair of satellites capable of creating artificial solar eclipses, which could help scientists better understand geomagnetic storms. / AP Sally Rooney: "
A visualization of places around the United States at highest risk for disasters and insurance hikes. / The Guardian An interview with a physicist focused on bio-based materials. "The question is whether we have enough." / Knowable Magazine When will we get nuclear fusion? Probably after 2050, though first "
South Korea's president faces impeachment after he unexpectedly declares martial law. / BBC News Some analysis of China, North Korea, and Russia's response to regional developments. / CNN Unrelated: Vladimir Putin has a "secret" daughter working as a DJ in France? / NME Turkey's proxies
France's prime minister faces a no-confidence vote that may leave the country without a functioning government. / BBC News France has recorded 52 Israeli violations of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire. / The National News Palestinians explain what it's like to go through an autumn olive harvest in Area C.
Scientists are still unsure why H5N1—which is known to have a fatality rate around 50%—has so far been mild in all 55 reported human cases in the US this year. / STAT "When you're homeless, you are even more vulnerable. You have no place to go,
TMN will return on Monday, following the Thanksgiving holiday. Russian forces are advancing in Ukraine at the fastest rate since the start of the 2022 invasion. / Reuters How many Ukrainian soldiers have died? As a share of population, more than America suffered in the Vietnam and Korean wars combined. / The
US prosecutors indict Indian billionaire Gautam Adani over his alleged role in a bribery scheme. / Al Jazeera The boats behind Mozambique's $2 billion "tuna bond scandal" are up for sale. / gCaptain The White House says it'll lend $6 billion to help Rivian build a
The ICC's warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant sent shockwaves, but don't expect the Court to rock American Exceptionalism, an "assertion of who the rules apply to and who they don't." / Forever Wars The first known H5N1 infection in a child in the
After 800 years of dormancy, Iceland's geological systems reactivated in 2021; since then, a volcano near Reykjavík has erupted 10 times. / Reuters The discovery of a mummified saber-toothed tiger cub is providing scientists a first-ever glimpse of the species, and providing answers to long-held questions. / National Geographic To
The International Criminal Court issues arrest warrants for Israel's prime minister and former defense minister, and Hamas's military commander. / BBC News A recap of Gaza resolutions voted on by the UN's Security Council since last October. / Al Jazeera Consulting firm McKinsey is said to
Negotiators at COP29 are stalled on how much money to raise for climate action in developing countries, "and how to raise it." / Semafor A new generation of cheaper batteries is becoming increasingly popular with EV automakers. / Canary Media The TSA expects to screen 18.3 million travelers next
Ukraine fires "longer-range" ballistic missiles into Russia on the 1,000th day of war. / CNN Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his country may soon face 100,000 North Korean troops. / The Guardian How has the Assad government maintained control in Syria despite 13 years of civil war? By becoming a
In trade journals, agriculture experts worry Trump's combination of RFK Jr. and tariffs could chill their $1.5 trillion industry. / NPR See also: Under Trump, the future of Medicare drug price negotiations—one of Biden's key domestic policy achievements—is now uncertain. / Roll Call Polls indicate
A bankruptcy judge has halted The Onion's purchase of Infowars, claiming concerns over the transparency of the auction. / Bloomberg Law How the planned construction of a Trump golf course near Hanoi might affect Vietnam's relations with the incoming administration. / The Diplomat Now that the election is
India's Supreme Court forbids "bulldozer justice," i.e., when the government demolishes someone's home after they've been accused of a crime. / BBC News The GOP retains its House majority, giving Republicans full control of Congress and the White House. / Politico Some Republican
Russian lawmakers vote to ban all media that promotes "a child-free lifestyle," including social media. / Semafor Since the 1990s, deaths have nearly always outnumbered births in Russia. / The Washington Post [+] What can President Biden do prior to Donald Trump's new term? "Use his clemency power
Israel says there will be no ceasefire or pause until its war objectives are met. / The Times of Israel A video round-up of what's happened in north Gaza since the US gave its 30-day warning a month ago. / Al Jazeera Between news-averse voters and disinformation, "Donald Trump
For the first time in history, every incumbent party in a developed nation this year lost vote share in elections. / Financial Times See also: A German far-right party won a regional election in September, which hasn't happened since the Nazi era—a result of 30 years of ignoring
The United States and Somalia sign an agreement formalizing debt cancellation worth $1.14 billion. / The South China Morning Post Cuba's power grid fails again as Hurricane Rafael crosses the island. / The Guardian Germany's ruling coalition collapses, triggering political chaos in Europe's largest economy.
Before any political news, some wanderlust to kick things off: pictures of a modern cabin in Vermont. / The New York Times [+] Also, some fashion illustrations from the roaring twenties in Très Parisien magazine. / Flashbak (Fwiw, today's clothes are made using enormous amounts of petrochemicals and fossil fuels.) (Clothes
Ukrainian officials say North Korean soldiers deployed to fight alongside Russian troops came under fire. / The Kyiv Independent A fascinating long read about an Israeli college student who wound up in a prisoner swap because of her Instagram stories. / The New York Times Magazine [+] The United States is spending an
There could be more continents than you think. Case in point: New Zealand may be part of its own continent, separate from Australia. / The New York Times [+] The Greenland Ice Sheet temporarily stores a large amount of meltwater in the summer, a discovery that may aid in accurately forecasting future
More than 200 people have now died from the flooding in Valencia, Spain, in Europe's deadliest weather disaster since the 1970s. / Reuters Long a crime that targeted Black and Latino people, jaywalking is now legal in New York City. / HuffPost "Even liberal yuppies in my Brooklyn neighborhood
North Korea launches an intercontinental ballistic missile, perhaps looking for attention prior to the US presidential election. / USA Today The Economist magazine endorses Kamala Harris, saying "being independent and being opinionated" aren't in conflict with each other. / Semafor Election officials in battleground states are trying—and
Foreign interference in this year's election is said to be far more sophisticated, and far more difficult to track. / The New York Times [+] China is considering approving $1.4 trillion in extra debt to revive its economy. / Reuters Related: If "Xi Jinping Thought" is not a
Saudi Arabia and Iran conducted a joint military drill last week in the Sea of Oman. / TRT World A good summary of current conflicts in the Middle East from Spencer Ackerman. / Forever Wars Oren Yiftachel: "Apartheid is not only a moral abyss and a crime against humanity; it is
"Donald Trump held a rally at Madison Square Garden last night that was so racist it got the New York Times to dust off the actual word 'racist' and use it in a headline." / Welcome to Hell World A look at the billionaires and businesses getting
In attempting to investigate its own citizens' abortion history, Texas is suing to access out-of-state medical records. / The Nation "Do not tell voters that Trump is rude and boorish and impolite. Tell them that Donald Trump is the motherfucking problem." The rich cause the problems they want
Israel has damaged more buildings in two weeks than in a year of fighting with Hezbollah. / BBC News A brief history of Hezbollah, Israel, and Lebanon. / Vox China cracks down on "uncivilized" puns that people use to get around censorship controls. / The Guardian One of the foremost American
Regarding the election, most of Europe is pro-Harris, while Israel, Russia, India, and other countries favor Trump. / Semafor A round-up of the rampant disinformation circulating about the election. / The New York Times [+] Related: Vladimir Putin hosts a summit for global leaders, including China's Xi Jinping and India'
Russia has suffered catastrophic losses during its invasion of Ukraine, but its policies suggest the end justifies the means. / The Guardian Mara Karlin: An era of limited war has ended; an age of comprehensive conflict has begun. / Foreign Affairs A rideshare startup in South Africa is reportedly using intimidation to
Amid shortages of food, fuel, and medicine, Cuba's electrical grid has collapsed four times since Friday, leaving 10 million people without power. / Reuters The presidential election is down to more than swing states; in fact, the outcome appears to rest on these 21 microcommunities. / The New York Times
Researchers find that people think they know enough to make informed decisions—regardless of what information they have. / Ars Technica Some thoughts on what the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar means for the Middle East. / NPR A detailed investigation into how Russian propaganda reaches and influences Americans. / NBC News
We apologize for any readers experiencing glitches with links. We're looking into it! For back-up, each day's headlines are posted at TMN. Israel's military is investigating whether Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was killed during a military operation. / CNN Mohamad Elmasry: The US warning to
China's appetite for an Iran-Israel war is said to be limited. / The Economist Five takeaways from Kamala Harris's interview with Charlamagne Tha God. / The New York Times [+] Donald Trump turns a town hall into a 39-minute "living-room listening session." / The Washington Post [+] Why does
Due to some unforseen events, we missed a couple days last week. Sorry about that. All is better now, and we appreciate the readers who reached out. Israel reportedly says any attacks on Iran will target its military, not nuclear or oil facilities. / CNN Republican campaigns spend more money at
Millions are without power after Hurricane Milton tears across Florida. / The Tampa Bay Times The hurricane also tore open the Tampa Bay Rays' roof and felled a crane. / The Weather Channel, X Photographs of Los Angeles's 400-mile network of aqueducts and hydropower plants. / Science History Institute New
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly calls President Biden to discuss Israel's plans to strike Iran. / axios The UK's Security Service says it has responded to 20 plots backed by Iran since 2022. / BBC News A review of China as a sentinel state—phone monitoring, "grid
Hurricane Milton, headed for Tampa, becomes the second-fastest storm to reach Category 5 status. / Vox John Morales: The proportion of tropical cyclones that reach very intense levels is projected to increase. / The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene tells her followers that the government controls the weather.
Brief profiles of the 97 hostages who remain unaccounted for after last year's Hamas-led attacks. / BBC News An eloquent essay from a former Gaza resident. "In the past year, I have lost many of the tangible parts of my memories." / The New Yorker Computer analysis finds
"Bolivia, too, is undergoing a kind of disillusionment with democracy." How the rest of the world views this year's US election. / The Dial See also: How British vernacular invaded America, or why everyone's saying "gutted" now. / The Guardian More solar activity could
Highlights from the newly unsealed election interference case against Donald Trump. / Politico Some 56 percent of divorced men support Trump—more than single men, married men, and women of any relationship status. / The Cut Jessica Grose: The misogyny of young Gen Z men has been overstated. / The New York Times
In light of Israel's incursion into southern Lebanon, a look back at its 1982 invasion that became an 18-year occupation. / Politico Magazine Viewers say last night's vice presidential debate was an even match, and an overwhelming majority felt the tone was positive. / CBS News Interviews with
The White House sides with Israel's ground assault of Lebanon while much of the world calls for a ceasefire. / Al Jazeera Iran is said to be preparing to launch a ballistic-missile attack. / The Wall Street Journal [+] A long profile of Ta-Nehisi Coates, whose new book criticizes Israel and
The death toll from Hurricane Helene has now reached 91 as Asheville, isolated by floods, struggles to get supplies airlifted to emergency workers. / Associated Press Every time a climate disaster like Helene happens, insurance companies gouge customers, who complain to politicians, who claim climate disasters rarely happen. / How Things Work
Nearly four million homes and businesses in the South are without power as Helene makes landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Florida. / Associated Press Conservative purists may hope a Trump defeat will end Trumpism, but the GOP is likely to remain ruled "by, and for reactionary business interests
More than four million people have been affected by floods across six countries in western and central Africa. / CBC Heavy rainfall caused parts of the Saraha Desert to turn green. / NASA Earth Observatory New analysis suggests that one in seven scientific papers is at least partly fake. / Retraction Watch A
Hezbollah launches its first long-range missile at Tel Aviv. / CNN Was Israel's detonation of the pagers an act of terrorism? "To kill civilians in a mass operation that entails their deaths is neither a tragedy nor an accident." / Zeteo American religious conservatives are working with Russia
Tens of thousands of people in Lebanon have fled their homes since Monday amid Israeli air strikes. / France24 Murders in the United States dropped 11.6 percent from 2022 to 2023, the largest single-year decline in the last 20 years. / NBC News A white paper finds that female politicians, most
Citing issues during the primary season, election officials are raising concerns about the US Postal Service's readiness to handle mail-in ballots in November. / NPR In 2017, Cards Against Humanity bought land in Texas at the Mexico border to protest Trump's wall. Now it's suing
Trump's proposed tax plan is like 2017 but more, and research confirms those gains in fact never trickled down beyond the wealthiest individuals and corporations. / Rolling Stone See also: Explainers on how Trump's tariffs would distribute wealth upward and how his backwards plan to lower grocery
A group of former Donald Trump advisers have helped to build a pro-Russia website that frequently spreads debunked conspiracy theories. / The Guardian A little more than half of Trump supporters say they believe his lies about Haitian immigrants eating pets. / The Washington Post [+] See also: "How the Trump Campaign
This year marks the centennial of the abolition of the Caliphate, or the "successorship" to the Prophet Muhammad. / Law & Liberty A brief history of the decades-long conflict between Israel and Hezbollah/Iran. / Al Jazeera Who are the best bureaucrats in the United States? There's an
The number of people killed or wounded in the Russia-Ukraine war has reached roughly one million. / The Wall Street Journal [+] Devastating flooding sweeps through Central and Western Africa. / DW Europeans are upset about Gaza, but they don't appear to be voting like it. / The Economist Unrelated: "I
California lawmakers have passed legislation that would require health warning labels to appear on gas stoves. / NPR Bill McKibben: How seeding pollinator-attracting plants in solar farms might address two climate crises at once. / The New Yorker Boar's Head has shut down the Virginia meat plant where a listeria
Covid is the only virus that has an adequate availability of tests—other infectious diseases remain dangerously lacking in diagnostics. / Financial Times In the first year after the end of affirmative action, colleges' diversity numbers are already dwindling, and many are looking at ways to reverse the trend. / Inside
Nearly 400,000 people are without power as Tropical Storm Francine makes landfall in Louisiana. / CBS News Photos of the French Quarter in New Orleans before and during Francine. / The Times-Picayune Four civilians become the first non-government astronauts to conduct a spacewalk. / CNN One of the largest US militias, AP3,
The US says Iran is shipping ballistic missiles to Russia for its war against Ukraine in a "dramatic escalation." / NBC News A first-hand account of surviving Israel's attack on Gaza's al-Mawasi "humanitarian zone." / Al Jazeera Kamala Harris won last night's
Vice President Harris will meet Donald Trump tonight in their only confirmed debate. / axios Some interviews with people who started politics-free Facebook groups. / The Wall Street Journal [+] A political reporter says the question he gets asked most often is "who will win the presidential race?" (He says it&
From restoring access to enshrining bans—including two competing measures in Nebraska—a look at the abortion initiatives on US ballots this November. / The New York Times [+] What's causing grocery price inflation? Retailer data shows it's not just corporate greed, it's also consumer spending
Data from 10 million car crashes shows larger vehicles kill more Americans—compared to compact cars, colliding with a heavy pickup increases fatality rates by roughly seven-fold. / The Economist See also: Cars have destroyed American cities, which were designed around cars. / How Things Work How office workers shifted from sharing
Researchers say they've discovered an antibody that can effectively fight against all variants of Covid-19. / KUT News Some advice from experts on when to get shots to protect against influenza, Covid, and RSV. / STAT A small study of gender-affirming care finds immune system differences in men and women.
Venezuelan strongman Nicolás Maduro moves Christmas to October, to distract from his seemingly stealing the election. / The Guardian An Iranian writer is sentenced to 12 years in prison for tweeting a period to Iran's supreme leader . / NPR Lebanon's former central bank governor, arrested over alleged financial
Acadia Healthcare, a leading chain of psychiatric hospitals, is holding some patients against their will to maximize insurance payouts. / The New York Times [+] Only about 6% of American plastic waste is recycled. "You're being lied to." / Semafor A Texas resident tracks her plastic recycling all the
Please note: We'll be off for Labor Day, and back in your inbox on Tuesday—see you then! Hundreds of California officials have been convicted of corruption in the past decade—analysts say a political supermajority and little oversight have encouraged wrongdoing. / The New York Times [+] Embroiled in
Why is the Horn of Africa on the cusp of war? Because Ethiopia wants to be a coastal nation. / The New York Times [+] Africa will finally get mpox vaccines amid a lot of criticism over delays caused by the World Health Organization's red tape. / The Guardian Thanks to
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he's ready to present a "plan of victory" to end the war with Russia. / Semafor More than 1.2 million oral polio vaccines have arrived in Gaza. How they'll be distributed without a ceasefire, or "polio pause,"
This year is tracking to be the most deadly for police shootings in a decade. The previous record was set last year. / The Economist "The moment of glamour seemed worth it." Kurt Andersen says RFK Jr. was his cocaine dealer at Harvard. / The Atlantic [+] Unrelated: Who is Kick
"The outcome of the race might hinge on whether they can keep the former president on script." Six factors that will define the final stretch of the election. / Wake Up to Politics See also: Here are the individuals and organizations that have pumped the most money into the
Seasoned Democrats warn party delegates not to think “everyone is as energetic as you are." / Politico A veteran from Capitol Hill says if you want to take politics seriously, don't send money to candidates. / Matt's Five Points Lessons gleaned from interviews with so-called low information
A mutated form of mpox has been circulating for months in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country still doesn't have a single vaccine. / Bloomberg [+] Former national security adviser HR McMaster says Vladimir Putin deliberately exploited Donald Trump's "ego and insecurities." / The Guardian Related:
President Biden approved a secret strategy in March to prepare the United States for possible coordinated nuclear confrontations with China, Russia and North Korea. / The New York Times [+] Condoleezza Rice: US-China relations badly need new procedures and lines of communication to prevent an accidental catastrophe. / Foreign Affairs Political influence campaigns
China and the United States are making progress, albeit limited, in cutting reliance on coal. / Semafor At this point of the year, global wildfire burn is about the highest it's been since 2012. / Sustainability by numbers See also: A fashion designer's rain-harvesting hats, and a skiable
Even as the GOP publicly lambastes Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, some Republican mayors in Ohio say it's making local energy projects possible. / Semafor A researcher at a US agency developing moonshot health therapies suggests replacing brain tissue as a way to treat stroke victims—and eventually
US officials say that Israel has done all it can militarily against Hamas in Gaza, and any further actions will only risk harming civilians. / The New York Times [+] See also: How Israel's finance minister is using obscure policy to connect a new West Bank settlement with Jerusalem. / The
The World Health Organization says the spread of mpox is a global public health emergency—the second such declaration in two years. / STAT Jess Craig: It remains unclear if the new designation will have any impact on mpox vaccine availability. / Vox Advice on when you should get your next Covid
Scientists discover "seismic signals" of liquid water on Mars. / BBC News China is building a massive wall of solar panels to fight desertification. / Semafor Analysts explain why Harvard canceled its solar geoengineering project. / The Verge Is carbon offsetting just greenwashing? I.e., "a mechanism that allows polluters
David Wallace-Wells explains why we shouldn't be applying lessons learned from Covid to bird flu. / The New York Times [+] A British couple compares photos of a Swiss glacier taken in 2009 and 2024. / Kottke Demand in the United States for avocados is encouraging deforestation in Mexico. / Bloomberg Immigrants
Experts say Covid can now be considered endemic, although it may take another decade to reach the predictability associated with other endemic diseases. / NPR "The CDC has likely been violating federal law for years by systematically deleting lower-level employees' emails, a federal judge ruled Friday." / Politico The
A deep dive into a US court's ruling that warrantless searches of incoming travelers' devices at the border are unconstitutional. / The Dissenter How a prominent anti-abortion doctor in San Antonio somehow became the rural representative for Texas's maternal mortality committee. / The Texas Tribune "It&
Doctors say it doesn't work, but Olympic athletes swear drinking a Coke after emerging from the polluted Seine helps "flush out anything inside of us." / The Wall Street Journal [+] Gyms depend on members not showing up—that's now a problem because new fitness trends
The Trump campaign is attacking Tim Walz for a policy that allows felons to vote, conveniently forgetting that Trump is also a convicted felon. / The New Republic Harris picking Walz as her running mate is a big win for the right-to-repair movement. / Gizmodo How we are watching the Olympics this
As part of Olympic security, French authorities are using—and critics argue, abusing—an anti-terror law to restrict the movements of hundreds of people. / AP "Aug. 2, 2024, was Black Friday for the artificial intelligence boom, as a week of rough earnings from Big Tech led to what felt
"Few questioned whether the MAGA tent was big enough to cover the tech futurists and the evangelical Christians." Inside the pro-Trump 2024 Bitcoin Conference. / The Verge Hamilton Nolan: "The Democrats are a Big Tent Party…in the way you might feel if you arrived at a group
Currently Germany's political shift toward right-wing extremism appears to be accelerating. / Semafor The Pentagon deploys more warships and fighter jets to the Middle East. / Reuters A review of bipartisan legislation that passed this week in Washington—e.g., supporting Alzheimer's research and protecting bald eagles. / Wake
Currently Bangladesh arrests more than 10,000 people after weeks of protests. / The Guardian Russia frees journalist Evan Gershkovich, part of the largest East-West prisoner swap since the Cold War. / The Associated Press See also: Fascinating details from the secret negotiations to free Gershkovich. / The Wall Street Journal [+] In addition:
Currently Iran and its proxies are meeting to discuss potential retaliation against Israel. / Reuters Spencer Ackerman: If Harris wants to be different on Israel, she quickly needs to choose "active deescalation." / Forever Wars "Why are you being so weird?" Inside the Democrats' new "big
Currently Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh is killed in Tehran. It's likely to have a chilling effect on ceasefire talks. / Al Jazeera, BBC News Etan Nechin: Pinpoint operations stand in stark contrast to five-ton bombs. / X Dan Williams: Ignorance and misperceptions are not puzzling. The challenge is to
Currently Venezuela severs diplomatic relations with countries that question this weekend's disputed presidential election. / Semafor Heather Cox Richardson: At this country's most important revolutionary moments, it has seemed as if the country turned on a dime. / Letters From an American Political rallies and fundraisers are moving
Currently Oil prices fall as traders seem to be unfazed by the risk of war between Israel and Iran's Hezbollah. / CNBC Mohanad Hage Ali: Hezbollah will likely choose restraint and de-escalation, owing to Lebanon's fragility. / Foreign Affairs Kamala Harris's team tells donors to be
Currently A few details about an investment scheme created, at the behest of Saudi and Emirati clients, to crash Qatar's currency. / The Financial Times [+] Atlanta's "Cop City" is said to have become "a case study for how solidarity itself can be criminalized."
Currently What to know about this weekend's presidential elections in Venezuela. / Chatham House Kristina Foltz: In partnership with Hezbollah, "Caracas is directly threatening security for the entire hemisphere." / Newsweek Riley Beggin explains why so many American Democrats support Israel, but not its leader. Meanwhile, the Obamas
Currently The United States economy looks to be strong for the next couple years—so, who gets to take credit for it? / The New York Times [+] Kamala Harris and her husband face sexist, racist attacks online. Same for JD Vance's wife and children. / The Guardian, ABC News Yet
Currently A big new Dexter Filkins article on whether Israel and Hezbollah, i.e., Iran, will go to war. / The New Yorker See also: How October 7 unraveled a landmark Mideast climate deal. / Grist Israel's Netanyahu will speak "in one of the few places he can count
Currently Vice President Kamala Harris says she has enough verbal commitments from delegates to clinch her party's presidential nomination. / Politico Goldman Sachs tells clients it's "impossible" to model US trade policy under a potential second Donald Trump presidency. / Semafor Could Republicans sue to keep
Currently Looking at Truman and Johnson's withdrawals and subsequent electoral defeats for Democrats, historians say Biden's circumstances differ quite a lot. / The New York Times [+] Drug-resistant bacteria often spread in war zones; as conflicts proliferate around the globe, the risk of superbugs reaching civilian populations rises.
Currently Please note: We're going on summer break starting tomorrow, and will be back on Monday, July 22—see you then! As areas of Houston continue to suffer without power, who gets access to generators has illuminated the city's socioeconomic divisions. / The New York Times [+] Nearly
Currently This week's Nato summit finds the global center left enjoying a moment together—perhaps temporarily. / Politico.eu An argument for political neutrality. "The world likely needs more thoughtful interventions and politically neutral spaces and less activism for activism's sake." / Dust to Dust The
Currently Nigeria's debt to gasoline suppliers surpasses $6 billion, doubling since early April. / Reuters Young men in Sri Lanka face an epidemic of kidney disease linked to extreme heat, dehydration, and heavy pesticide use. / The New York Times [+] "Sun kinks" refer to train tracks getting "
Currently An explanation of what just happened in France's shock election, and where it leaves Macron. / BBC News Ukranian tennis star Elina Svitolina wears black at Wimbledon after a Russian missile barrage hits Ukraine's largest children's hospital. / The Guardian Are you sure you wouldn&
Currently Tropical Storm Beryl is now pushing inland, leaving more than two million people in Houston without power. / Associated Press Scalpers have reverse-engineered the anti-scalping technology used by major ticketing platforms, and are creating counterfeit tickets that can be resold. / 404 Media Slop is rampant in video games, and AI—
Currently Please note: We'll be off the rest of the week and will return on Monday—see you then! Following yesterday's Supreme Court decision, Manhattan prosecutors agreed to delay Trump's sentencing in the hush money trial. / Associated Press "It's mind-blowing in
Currently After the far right came out ahead in yesterday's elections, France's other parties are withdrawing candidates to try and block Le Pen's party from reaching a majority. / France 24 A new lawsuit alleges Microsoft and two sex-toy retailers are tracking users' personal,
Currently By overruling the decision that led to Chevron doctrine, the Supreme Court just upended federal agencies' authority to interpret laws. / SCOTUSblog Related: The ruling could have a major effect on environmental regulations and the speed with which agencies can react to scientific findings. / Yale Environment 360 Drought and
Currently Yes, Democrats are panicking about Biden's poor debate showing, and while there are calls to replace him, he'd have to drop out first. / The New York Times [+], POLITICO Hamilton Nolan: "This is the outcome of any system in which wealth and power naturally accumulate
Currently Explaining the Supreme Court's decision in the Idaho abortion case: It "does nothing to help those same patients in the other 49 states." / Vox Since Biden's new asylum restrictions took effect, daily crossings of undocumented migrants have fallen to the lowest level of
Currently Some Providence residents say the city is too noisy, and the mayor agrees, but plans to curtail noise could unfairly target poor and immigrant communities. / The New York Times [+] See also: Johns Hopkins undergrads have invented a 40% quieter leaf blower. / Johns Hopkins University "It's designed
Currently Abortions are on the rise nationally, bans are more likely to hurt the maternal health of Black women, and other ways abortion has changed since Roe ended two years ago. / Vox A Texas medical panel has approved additional guidance for doctors performing abortions, including modifying some reporting requirements—but
Currently More than 1,170 pilgrims die during this year's hajj due to extreme heat. / The Wall Street Journal [+] A journalist shot by Minneapolis police while covering protests over the death of George Floyd is dying of her injuries. / NPR Extremist groups are using AI to spread their
Currently The White House plans to send nearly $110 million in security and police assistance to Haiti. / Reuters While Zimbabwe's economy worsens, traditional healers are making money by promising people wealth. / rest of world Congress almost unanimously passed a clean energy bill this week and it didn'
Currently Leading AI chatbots are spreading Russian disinformation created by an American fugitive operating from Moscow. / NewsGuard A major expansion is underway inside one of Iran's nuclear facilities. / Semafor A majority of Iranians now support Iran pursuing nuclear weapons. / Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists See also: How to
Currently In many regions, communicable diseases are surging past their pre-pandemic levels, "often by significant margins." / yahoo! news The surgeon general calls for a warning label on social media platforms. / The New York Times [+] You have until June 26 to prevent Meta from using your photos and text
Currently Millions in the United States, from the Midwest to the Northeast, prepare for a weeklong heat wave. / axios People explain what it's like to live through a 121 degree day. "I can't complain. Other people have it harder." / Goats and Soda Researchers say
Currently Chinese and Philippine ships collide, making for a test of Beijing's new coastguard law. / The South China Morning Post A remote outpost in the South China Sea is reportedly a front line of potential global conflict. / The Atlantic During the pandemic, the US military launched a secret
Currently G7 leaders finish their summit in Italy by telling China to quit helping Russia invade Ukraine. / Voice of America See also: The summit's final communiqué references the country 28 times, "almost always as a malign force." / The New York Times [+] Eight examples of congressional bipartisanship
Currently The US Supreme Court unanimously rejects a bid by anti-abortion groups to restrict access to mifepristone. / Reuters Ian Millhiser: This is a victory for abortion rights, but it's also unlikely to be the last word in the fight. / Vox Ukranian children describe what it's like
Currently The White House plans to signal a long-term commitment to Ukraine with a 10-year security agreement. / Newsweek France's conservative wing implodes overnight. South Africa's ANC party tries to find unity. / Politico, Semafor Regarding the climate crisis, hundreds of looming projects suggest we're on
Currently A new poll finds Donald Trump with a slight edge, but fundamentals favoring President Biden. / 538 American diplomats and White House aides say the recent far-right gains in Europe could've been much worse. / Politico Unrelated: Why is Hungary so small? An illustrated guide. / Uncharted Territories How the
Currently The UN Security Council votes to support an American resolution backing a ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas's praise for it is said to be "a hopeful sign." / BBC News, France24 Energy drinks in Ukraine, branded with patriotic machismo, are reported to be "an essential antidote&
Currently "What is going to happen when a recovered herd gets infected again? Maybe someone knows the answer to this already, but I don't." Scientists have questions about bird flu. / STAT Inside the controversy over the much-hyped Istanbul restaurant whose Syrian influencer chef has been accused
Currently The attack on Snowflake, which provides cloud services to multiple large corporations, appears to be snowballing into one of the largest data breaches ever. / TechCrunch, WIRED Ikea is hiring employees—at a rate of just under $17 an hour—to work in its Roblox store. / The Independent Unrelated: TJ
Currently In October, more than 17,000 elephant seals died in an H5N1 outbreak. According to a genetic analysis, the virus jumped at least three times before that. / The New York Times [+] Yesterday, Florida's Supreme Court gave its governor the power to remove locally elected prosecutors—and therefore
Currently Israel is found to be using fake social media accounts to encourage US lawmakers to fund its military. / The New York Times [+] An explainer unpacks the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. / Reuters Scientists aren't sure why the second half of last year was so much hotter
Currently An investigation into officials and politicians who carried out a campaign to permanently transfer Ukrainian children to Russia. / The New York Times [+] President Biden says Ukrainian defeat would mean "you'll see Poland go." Also, that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is prolonging the war in Gaza
Currently Vote counting begins in India after the world's biggest, most expensive election. / CNN, The Economist How did Mexico end up with two women on the ballot for president, only 71 years after suffrage? "Activism, electoral reform, and timing." / Interruptrr An Italian village with 46 residents
Currently A "game changer" immunotherapy drug "melts away" tumors, and may one day replace surgery and conventional chemo for bowel cancer. / The Guardian Mexico has elected its first female president, former Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. / NPR Related: An economic boom means many Mexican citizens are
Currently In a groundbreaking medical trial, thousands of NHS patients will receive personalized cancer vaccines designed to prevent tumors from returning after surgery. / The Guardian "The reaction that I encountered most often was disbelief that he was bright enough to manage such a scheme." The Hollywood hopeful behind
Currently Yes, Trump can still run for president now that he's convicted, and even from jail—and there's precedent, since Eugene V. Debs did it in 1920. / Politico Though as a former president, Trump has Secret Service protection, and if he goes to jail so does
Currently Aid entering Gaza drops by 67% after Israel begins its assault on Rafah. Meanwhile, Egypt is in a dangerous bind. / CNN, The Wall Street Journal [+] A profile of the Israeli doctor who saved the life, several years ago, of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar. / The New York Times [+] From April,
Currently South Africans go to the polls in what's viewed as a hugely consequential election. / The Guardian An overview of what's so consequential, and what else you need to know. / The Week in Africa Incidentally: Reacher is a fantasy about white power, Angelica Jade Bastién says.
Currently Israel's diplomatic isolation grows over its offensive on the Gazan town of Rafah. / Semafor According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the overall Palestinian death toll in the war is now above 36,000. / The Associated Press Taiwanese activists are using Meta's Threads app to organize
Currently We're taking the weekend off for the holiday, so we tried to make today's edition extra good. See you Tuesday. The US Air Force tracks more than 25,000 pieces of space junk larger than 10 centimeters. / Scientific American A question for the weekend: Do
Currently Nearly three in five Americans wrongly believe the United States is in an economic recession, and the majority blame the Biden administration. / The Guardian Unrelated: "Biden Carried Away By Ants." / The Onion Britain's prime minister calls for a general election in July, which the Tories
Currently Spain, Ireland and Norway say they will recognize a Palestinian state. / The Associated Press Members of Israeli security forces are telling settlers the location of aid convoys so they can intercept them. / The Guardian The EU is financing operations to detain tens of thousands of migrants in North Africa
Currently Yesterday's edition was foiled by a technical reason called forgetfulness blargh. Iran sets new elections, which may serve as a "dress rehearsal" for an upcoming power struggle. / Semafor, Atlantic Council Analysis of who inside Iran may benefit from President Raisi's death. / The Atlantic
Currently Views of the aurora borealis should return in a couple of weeks, as the massive solar storm rotates back toward Earth. / BBC "Some political scientists describe this strategy as 'state crime,' violence tacitly permitted or encouraged by the government." Why did Greg Abbott pardon a
Currently A deep investigation into how the Chinese underworld has come to dominate America's illegal marijuana trade. / ProPublica "Fewer than one in 1,000 US university courses include references to critical race theory or other so-called "woke" topics that have become flashpoints in the country&
Currently What's worse for disease spread: animal loss, urbanization, or the climate crisis? The climate crisis. / Goats and Soda Donald Trump allegedly asked big-oil executives last month for $1 billion in campaign donations. / The Guardian DNA analysis shows baobab trees first arose in Madagascar 21 million years ago.
Currently Tree rings prove that last summer was the hottest summer in the past 2,000 years. / BBC News Current solar and wind deployment rates are much faster than most countries during the nuclear boom period. / Sustainability by Numbers Investors and developers today expect 8 to 10% annual growth in
Currently Secretary of State Blinken visits Ukraine, intending to signal "strong reassurance" that the West will continue to back Kyiv. Meanwhile, Putin heads to Beijing. / Semafor Russia is conducting "hybrid warfare" in Moldova—i.e., anything "short of bombing the country." / The Week Notes
Currently Along with the aurora borealis, this weekend's solar storm wreaked havoc on farmers' GPS systems ahead of a critical moment in the planting season. / 404 Media The CDC is expected to release a public dashboard today that will track influenza A viruses, including H5N1, in sewage.
Currently Sports Illustrated was only the beginning—the company behind those fake bylines has been working with dozens of well-known publications to provide AI-generated content. / Futurism The Drake/Kendrick rap battle briefly shut down Genius, as users rushed to annotate "Euphoria" moments after its release. / The New York
Currently Explaining the Biden-Netanyahu rift over Rafah: It's about how realistic it is to dismantle Hamas, and at what cost. / The New York Times [+] See also: Will Gaza hurt Biden's reelection chances? If you ask younger voters, yes, but not as much as a host of
Currently President Biden says the United States will halt some weapon shipments to Israel if it launches a full invasion of Rafah. / CNN Interviews with people living in Rafah, forced to flee Israel's attacks. / Al Jazeera NATO members (excluding the US) increased military spending last year by 19%
Currently Only a small minority of American college students—8%—have participated in recent protests. / axios In Mexico, immigration officials and the National Guard are said to be working together as a "new cartel." / SAGA Peter Salmon: By establishing whether the sovereign can kill us, we build the
Currently Israel bans Al Jazeera and raids its offices. Meanwhile, the blasting of Rafah continues. / Semafor, Al Jazeera Thomas Friedman: MBS put his country's worst religious extremists in jail, while Netanyahu put his worst religious extremists in his cabinet. / The New York Times [+] Palestinian artists describe their daily
Russia will hold military exercises near Ukraine, apparently intending to show it could use battlefield nuclear weapons there. / The New York Times [+] It's impossible to tell how far H5N1 has spread in the US, since dairy farmers—unlike poultry farmers—aren't compensated for reporting infections. / WIRED
Protestors want universities to divest from Israel, yet schools' endowments are frequently—conveniently—opaque. / The Washington Post [+] Photos: Fifty-four years ago today, the Ohio National Guard arrived at Kent State University and opened fire on student protestors. / The Atlantic "The fact that Palestinian children are children doesn'
Members' voting patterns reveal the eight types of House Democrats and Republicans, based on how much they do (or don't) align with their caucuses. / FiveThirtyEight See also: "The House passed bipartisan bills on climate change and border security this week, and almost no one noticed."
Student demonstrators say they fear being doxxed by pro-Israel groups accusing them of antisemitism. / The New York Times [+] Spencer Ackerman explains how warrantless spying on campus protesters is easier than ever. / Forever Wars See also: Tracking the nationwide arrests of more than 1,700 campus protesters. Universities blame outside agitators.
Regarding universities and protesters, since April 18, more than 1,000 people have been arrested on more than 25 campuses across at least 21 states. / CNN The DEA plans to recommend reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug. / The Associated Press Helen Branswell breaks down what we're starting
Diplomats voice hope amid multiple signs of progress toward a Middle East truce. / Semafor The war on Gaza is thought likely to radicalize a new generation of global jihadists. / The Economist Campus protests ignite in France, inspired by American students. / Al Jazeera Unrelated: The making of France's far-right
Less than a month after seven of its team members were killed by Israeli airstrikes, World Central Kitchen says it will resume operations in Gaza. / NPR A new UK law requiring device manufacturers to ban users' weak passwords goes into effect today. / The Register Texas groups file a lawsuit
Today is Independent Bookstore Day! Here are ways you can support and celebrate your local. / Book Publishing Brick by Brick Millions of Lego pieces fell overboard near Land's End in 1997. Now, a 13-year-old has found a "holy grail" piece—one of the payload's
Testing of dairy items from store shelves in the US shows the bird flu outbreak among cows is more widespread than previously indicated. / STAT Zeynep Tufekci: "One thing that travels back and forth between cattle farms and chicken farms is human beings." / The New York Times [+] Comparing the
Over 100 students protesting Israel's war in Gaza are arrested at the University of Texas and the University of Southern California. / Al Jazeera "It's a consideration to protect your anonymity." Why protesters are wearing masks these days. / Semafor How many people died from disasters
Costa Rica consistently gets more than 99 percent of its electricity from renewables—and "it's still not enough." / The Verge An orange haze descends over Athens as dust clouds blow in from the Sahara. / BBC News Los Angeles earns its 25th-straight F for air quality. / The
Global defense spending grew 7% to a record $2.4 trillion in 2023, the fastest annual rise since 2009. / Reuters Related: "We now risk entering a pre-war era that consolidates the battle lines of conflict globally." / Noema In Myanmar, a new generation joins the rebels who've
Scientists have developed an RNA-based vaccine that targets all strains of a virus, potentially eliminating the need for chasing influenza strains every year. / UC Riverside As the WHO raises concerns about bird flu's potential to spread among humans, H5N1 has now been detected in raw milk from infected
Patagonia faces an existential crisis as it tries to navigate ways to curb the microplastic epidemic while producing apparel that contributes to the epidemic. / InsideHook "He showed [sharks] were able to 'habituate' to both visual and auditory stimuli and to the presence of humans. And they make
The limited nature of Israel's counterattack on Iran suggests both sides want to avoid escalation. / The New York Times [+] Most of the US military aid approved for Ukraine is being spent in the US—and specifically in these congressional districts. / The Washington Post [+] Tracking AI-generated election content around
The amount of homicides in major American cities is falling at its quickest rate in decades. / axios Mass shootings in the United States are said to be down 30% from this time last year. / X Funding for US-based "creator" startups more than doubled in the first three months
Photographs from four days in a Ukrainian trench with soldiers from an international legion. / The New York Times [+] "Be honest and vulnerable." Activists explain how they keep calm in a world full of crises. / Goats and Soda Spencer Ackerman: A world with exceptions to international law is one
In China, companies making fentanyl precursors and analogues can apply for state tax rebates. / NPR Nearly 200 American colleges and universities hold contracts with Chinese businesses, valued at $2.32 billion. / The Wall Street Journal [+] Argentina experiences a 2,153% increase in Dengue fever cases. / The Guardian From February, some
Following Israel's thwarting of Iran's aerial attack, world leaders urge Netanyahu not to retaliate, and Biden says the US won't support an Israeli counterattack. / AP, Axios A mission to capture space junk has now rendezvoused with a second-stage rocket that's been orbiting
Following Israel's attack on Iran's consulate in Syria, Iranian forces have seized an "Israeli-linked" container ship near the Strait of Hormuz. / Al Jazeera See also: "The conventional wisdom in Washington and elsewhere has often held that Iran has become contained, even isolated. But
Bird flu outbreaks typically go away after culling poultry, but over the past three years the virus hasn't died down, and in fact is increasing. / WIRED Moira Donegan: How society's failure to help an obvious victim of domestic violence led to Nicole Brown's death.
The February heatwave in West Africa was made 10 times more likely by climate change. / CarbonBrief British farmers say this year's record rainfall suggests an ongoing emergency. / The Guardian A round-up of superlatives, senior yearbook style, for "the most surprising, actionable, and fun solutions" to the
"If the global south exists, then who leads it?" From 2000 to 2021, China funded more than 20,000 infrastructure projects across 165 countries. / The Economist Ed Conway: Elon Musk isn't going to be the Henry Ford of the electric car—China is. / Material World Jon
Over the weekend, Iran seemed to float a way to stop the Gaza genocide and a regional war. / Forever Wars From February: Gaza and the dilemmas of genocide scholars. / Al Jazeera The Moscow terror attack causes a backlash against labor migrants in Russia. / Carnegie Endowment for International Peace See also:
Israel regroups its army to move into Rafah. A round-up of statistics from a devastating six months. / The Associated Press, Al Jazeera Pankaj Mishra: The more remote the Shoah has grown, the more fiercely its memory has been possessed by Jewish Americans. / The London Review of Books Who is Portugal
Hi. Due to the work required this month to produce the Tournament of Books, we're going to take a week off and nap. See you April 8. With the Wall Street Journal's Evan Gershkovich now detained in Russia for a year, other journalists explain how they
At least 32,490 Palestinians have been killed and 74,889 wounded in Israeli attacks on Gaza since October 7. / Al Jazeera Right-wing Israelis question whether the country relies too much on the United States. / The Wall Street Journal [+] Dominic Tierney: Israelis are likely to look back on the war
Ukraine says a third of all Russian warships in the Black Sea have been sunk or disabled. / Semafor The ship that hit the Baltimore Key Bridge was involved in a collision while leaving Antwerp, Belgium, in 2016. / The Guardian See also: "The Baltimore bridge collapse is only the latest—
A bridge in Baltimore collapses after being hit by a large container ship. / The Wall Street Journal [+] The rate at which Gaza has reached its depth of food insecurity is "practically unheard of" in the 21st century. / Vox Despite some 667,000 people experiencing "catastrophic" levels
Russia marks a day of mourning for victims of the concert hall attack. / NPR Vladimir Putin brushed off American warnings about the attack as "blackmail." / The Economist Images of Emmanuel Macron punching a boxing bag are linked to France's increasingly tougher stance against Russia. / CNN Some
At least 133 people are dead after an attack on a crowded concert hall outside Moscow. An ISIL affiliate claims the assault. / BBC News, Al Jazeera The United States warned Russia weeks ago of an impending attack. / The New York Times [+] Negotiators at the United Nations are working to recognize
The United States drafts a new security council resolution calling for Israel to commence an immediate ceasefire. / Al Jazeera China and Russia veto the measure, partly due to the US linking the ceasefire to a condemnation of Hamas. / axios See also: A round-up of things to know about ongoing efforts
MacKenzie Scott's latest round of giving sends $640 million to 361 small nonprofits—more than double what she pledged. / The Associated Press A list of the organizations that received grants. / Yield Giving Meanwhile, a study finds only a small fraction of Amazon's plastic packaging ever makes
A study says 71 percent of the world's population now lives in autocracies, up from 48 percent just a decade ago. / The Washington Post [+] All but one of the 100 cities with the world's worst air pollution last year were in Asia; 83 were in India.
The EPA announces a comprehensive ban on asbestos, which is still used in bleach and brake pads. / STAT As China and India grow richer, they may decide "that the costs of asbestos have come to outweigh its benefits." / Works in Progress What do American households use electricity for?
Vladimir Putin wins a fifth term in Russia, partly because the Kremlin made sure he didn't have real opponents. / BBC News Thousands of Russian voters silently protested Putin by showing up to the polls at noon. / Reuters Berlin's techno scene is now registered as part of
More than 300 people are believed to have been kidnapped this week in northern Nigeria. / CBS News "I started dragging myself like a snake." An account of a 17-year-old boy who got away. / BBC News A round-up of recent events in Haiti. / Interruptrr France and Germany's
Voters begin casting ballots in Russia where the Kremlin "remains determined" to render a semblance of legitimacy. / BBC News A day of mourning is declared after another Russian missile attack in Odesa. / The Guardian Protesters at the New York Times hand out editions of the New York Crimes.
A list of key events on day 160 of Israel's war on Gaza. / Al Jazeera "Every day felt like an eternity." A short interview with a freed Israeli hostage. / BBC News Unrelated? "That the U.S. military establishment employs so many historians should be little
The European Union's foreign policy chief accuses Israel of using starvation as a "weapon of war." / The Times of Israel In photographs: what it's like right now to hunt for food in Gaza. Meanwhile, food insecurity in Nigeria, in Haiti. / The New York Times
The director of the World Peace Foundation says he was wrong to predict the end of large-scale famines. / The New York Times [+] Linking indifference toward suffering in Sudan to a pattern of antiblackness. / Africa Is a Country See also: An argument that "you, personally, should want a larger human
An error in Saturday's newsletter suggested this year's Tournament of Books just concluded. In fact, the second week is just beginning! Palestinians in Gaza are afraid of attending Ramadan evening prayers for fear of being bombed. / Al Jazeera The United States removes non-essential staff from its
Sailor Cole Brauer becomes the first American woman to race nonstop around the world by herself. / The Newport Daily News Republican and Democrat First Ladies are said to both deal with different versions of the "same gendered expectations." / Politico See also: A roundtable with three female watch collectors.
Sweden joins NATO as the 32nd member of the alliance, ending decades of post-World War II neutrality. / The Associated Press Related: How Sweden and Finland went from neutral to NATO. / BBC News A report finds an Israeli tank crew killed a Reuters reporter in October by firing two shells at
Remember the 43 Mexican students who vanished in 2014? Families are still hunting for answers—and nothing looks good for the government's cover-ups. / The New Yorker Hungary's Viktor Orbán arrives in the United States to meet with Donald Trump. / The Guardian A German man who got
Russia uses facial recognition to identify and detain attendees of Alexei Navalny's funeral. / Semafor Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, European states have spent more than €100 billion on military equipment—80% outside the EU, with more than 60% going to the United States. / Reuters A new
Ghana's president steps back slightly from an anti-LGBTQ bill for fear of losing $3.8 billion in World Bank funding. / BBC News France becomes the first country to enshrine abortion as a constitutional right. / Al Jazeera Birth control pills are about to be sold in the United States
Political candidates are being attacked across swaths of Mexico where cartels dominate. / The Associated Press About 900 Chinese nationals who were forced to work at "scam centers" in Myanmar returned home this weekend. / Semafor France's Macron says he'll swim in the Seine River to
A United Nations team finds many people injured in Thursday's attack on Palestinians awaiting food in Gaza City had gunfire wounds. / Al Jazeera Researchers project excess deaths in Gaza may climb to between 74,290 and 85,750 if the war escalates. / Goats and Soda A California congressman
Thousands of mourners defy arrest by gathering in Moscow for Alexei Navalny's funeral. Music is played from Terminator 2, Navalny's favorite film. / The Wall Street Journal [+], USA Today Antara Haldar: Blame Putin for Navalny's death, sure, but also blame "shock therapy" economic
More than a hundred Palestinians are killed in an incident around an aid convoy in northern Gaza. / BBC News A new report says antiterrorism law "has been structurally anti-Palestinian from its inception." / Forever Wars The Supreme Court grants Donald Trump "an extended pause" on his trial
More than 100,000 Michigan primary voters vote "uncommitted," protesting Biden's handling of the war in Gaza. / Politico Related: Netanyahu is sacrificing Israel's legitimacy for his personal needs, and "he will not hesitate to take Biden down with him." / The New York
The White House says Israel will halt military activities in Gaza during Ramadan. / Reuters Meanwhile, tension increases as Hezbollah and Israel exchange strikes on the Israel-Lebanon border. / Al Jazeera Hungary approves Sweden's bid to join NATO after two years of negotiations. / Semafor Bellingcat investigates a global network of
Countries and legal experts try to make "ecocide" the fifth crime that the International Criminal Court can prosecute. / Grist The climate benefits of planting forests may be 15 to 30 percent lower than previously thought. / NewScientist Why are there so many new chairs for public use in London?
International leaders visit Kyiv to mark the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. / BBC News American military officials warn that the best Ukrainians can hope for is "a largely frozen conflict." / The New York Times [+] Clinics in Alabama halt offering in vitro fertilization after the
The White House announces new sanctions connected to Russia's war machine and the death of Alexei Navalny. / NPR Six things the executive branch did this week—e.g., student-debt cancellation, an upgrade for water infrastructure. / Wake Up to Politics A satirical social media post brings a ton of
The EU moves to sanction Indian and Chinese companies accused of helping to supply Russia's war on Ukraine. / The South China Morning Post Debunking four myths about Ukraine that have taken hold. / Politico Your weekly white paper: An annual poll of experts ranks Joe Biden in the top
A docked ship carrying 19,000 cows envelops Cape Town with a putrid smell. / The Associated Press Three of the world's biggest meatpackers are linked to illegal deforestation in Brazil. / BBC News Farmworkers in Florida band together to create the United States' "strongest set of workplace
Scientists spot the most luminous object ever detected in the known universe, with a brightness equivalent to 500 trillion suns. / BBC News Yulia Navalnaya, Alexei Navalny's widow, urges the world not to recognize Russia's election, scheduled for March. / Reuters Britain and France have 500 nuclear warheads
Making the case that Vladimir Putin assassinated his imprisoned rival Alexei Navalny. / Why It Matters See also: Navalny seen in video a day before his reported death. / BBC News How Navalnyorganized anti-Putin Russians—who remain and are in larger numbers than ever. / Foreign Affairs Tucker Carlson's quip on
A family struggles amid health issues, financial turmoil, and an unsupportive state government: the year after a denied abortion. / ProPublica Yesterday, SpaceX launched a lunar launder that, if successful, will be the first private spacecraft to land on the moon. / Quartz See also: The legal and ethical tug of war
Britain and Japan fell into technical recessions in the final quarter of 2023. / ABC News Meanwhile, the sneaker resale market is plummeting. / Business of Fashion "Tooth fairy inflation" refers to parents competing over Generation Alpha's average payout per lost tooth. / The Wall Street Journal [+] "People
The United States CDC plans to drop its five-day COVID-19 isolation recommendations. / Reuters Michigan becomes the first state in decades to repeal the union-restricting law known as "right-to-work." / The Associated Press See also: A day in the life of our "most prolific" professional bridesmaid. / The Hustle
South Africa says it's sending 3,000 troops to fight groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo. / Reuters In 2022, the DRC produced almost three-quarters of the world's cobalt—"essential in the green-energy transition." / Semafor Taylor Swift's private flight to the Super
Even as guns remain a cornerstone of Republican politics, the NRA is in decline, losing more than a million members over the last five years. / The New York Times [+] According to a new report, climate change is erasing many of the gains in air quality over the past few decades.
"Part of the reason why our immigration debate is so bad is the perception among many people that there is a fixed number of jobs in this country." / How Things Work Thirty seconds of Super Bowl advertising alone is not worth $7 million. / Axios See also: A Super
In describing Biden as a "sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory," the special counsel's report opened a new front in the election. / Vox See also: "[The special counsel], a lifelong Republican and creature of DC, didn't have a case against Biden,
For the first time on record, global warming exceeds the 1.5 degrees Celsius limit over a 12-month period. / Al Jazeera An unlikely coalition behind the White House's natural gas pivot: climate activists and manufacturing facilities. / Grist Some good news? "Hungry sea otters are helping save California’
Three scenarios imagine how the Supreme Court may handle Donald Trump's imminent appeal to avoid an election-subversion trial. / Politico Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi never lost a vote in eight years as leader. Speaker Mike Johnson just lost two in one night. / Wake Up to Politics Fox Corp.
A profile of Esmail Qaani, head of Iran's covert paramilitary operations, whose lack of charisma is said to make managing different groups difficult. / The Wall Street Journal [+] Why is there growing interest in economic degrowth? Young people want radical change, claims Kohei Saito. / Grist The United States Supreme
After Jan. 6, big business rebuffed Trump—now some CEOs are signaling they wouldn't mind the former president's return to the White House. / The New Republic See also: Celebrated two years ago for saying it would not finance new coal projects, Bank of America is now
In retaliation for Iran's attack that killed US troops, the US launches airstrikes against targets in Iraq and Syria linked to Iran-backed groups. / Reuters See also: Why the war in Gaza makes a nuclear Iran more likely. / Foreign Affairs Following a history teacher's viral video, Target
Campaign finance reports show that last year, Trump donors spent more than $50 million on the former president's legal fees. / Axios See also: In the last quarter of 2023, Trump raised $19 million to Biden's $33 million. / Reuters The Texas Supreme Court halted depositions in the
The European Union reaches a deal on $54 billion of support for Ukraine after months of obstruction by Hungary. / Deutsche Welle Some 1,300 farmers blockaded central Brussels with trucks and tractors to protest new biodiversity legislation—and combined with other protests, it worked. / Bloomberg, The Guardian Related/unrelated: Why
Israel's Netanyahu vows to continue the Gaza attack despite widespread pressure to reach a ceasefire. Perhaps he fears losing power? / Al Jazeera, Haaretz Israel's influential far right ministers want to resettle Gaza and exclude Palestinians. / The Wall Street Journal [+] A pediatrician visiting Gaza calls it "
Our understanding of the devastation in Gaza is fast dimming as Palestinian journalists leave, quit, or die. / The New York Times [+] Nazia Kazi: With increasing fervour, Muslim America is united in demanding a shift in Middle East policy. / Al Jazeera Documents show the Kremlin is studying ways to undermine the
EU officials reportedly plan to sabotage Hungary's economy if its Putin-friendly prime minister again blocks support for Ukraine. / The Guardian Related/unrelated: Seven laws of pessimism. / Quillette E-commerce revenue in the United States is forecast to exceed $2.5 trillion by 2027. Growing alongside it: a rise in
Though Biden's poll numbers are currently underwater, polls on incumbents are notoriously imperfect predictors of reelection. / NPR How ultraviolet light—which is incredibly effective at killing viruses lurking indoors—might be used to stop the next pandemic before it starts. / Vox After winning 33 straight matches at the
The United States economy grows 3.3% in the final quarter of 2023, beating analysts' predictions. / Semafor Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova say they didn't grow women's tennis for it to be exploited by Saudi Arabia. / The Washington Post [+] Four women from Myanmar relate what
The world's deadliest humanitarian crisis in 2022 was not in Afghanistan or Ukraine, but the Central African Republic. / Undark Ten countries have now been dragged into the "ever-expanding" Middle East war. / The Economist An investigation finds the United Arab Emirates funding more than 100 assassinations in
In the past year, the Pentagon has successfully tested a wide range of autonomous weapons, and while there's more to come, international consensus remains iffy. / Defense One The US is currently on pace to produce more oil—13.3 million barrels of a day—than any country in
In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court rules Border Patrol can once again remove razor wire installed by Texas at the Mexico border. / The Dallas Morning News An investigation of the White House's pharmacy uncovers disturbing findings, including a request to "hook up" someone with a
Israel appears to be following the advice of the Biden administration and other allies by waging a more targeted war to reduce civilian casualties. / The New York Times [+] Still, the death toll of Palestinians in the Gaza war surpasses 25,000, as Israel announces the death of another hostage. / AP
Some of these certainly flew under the radar, but here are 20 things the US government did this week. / Wake Up to Politics A surprising number of Americans think they live in the Midwest, even when they're as far away as Colorado or Arkansas. / The Wall Street Journal
Ambassadors to Washington are betting against American democracy, thanks to the GOP-Democratic divide. / Politico Magazine Richard Louv: Reconnecting children and nature may be the last cause in the US that transcends political barriers. / MIT Press Reader Related, perhaps: "Poverty doesn't cause societal violence—how you become an
The United States attacks Houthi ballistic missiles in Yemen over the Iran-aligned group's targeting of Red Sea shipping. / PBS Iran's Revolutionary Guards say they attacked Israel's "spy headquarters" in Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region. / Reuters Pakistan warns of retaliation for an
Despite facing multiple indictments, Donald Trump wins the Iowa Republican primary by a historic margin. / Politico A round-up of African migration trends to watch in 2024—e.g., state fragility, seasonal economic opportunities. / Africa Center The world's most "powerful" passports, ranked. / The Points Guy A very
Internet and telecom services in Gaza get cut as a result of Israel's bombardment. / Al Jazeera Jeremy Bowen: It's time to stop talking about the war spreading elsewhere—it's already happened. / BBC News Spencer Ackerman: You did it, Joe! You escalated the war you
A report says Niger, Senegal, and Rwanda will be among this year's highest growth economies. / Semafor Whither pandemic preparedness and global health cooperation? Helen Branswell's public health questions for 2024. / STAT Unrelated: Collective online archiving as a way to mourn a friend. / Dirt In normal times
Taiwan says it doesn't consider the launch of a Chinese satellite, whose rocket flew over southern Taiwan, an attempt at election interference. / Reuters Related: Breaking down Wang Yi's speech on China's diplomacy in 2023 and priorities for 2024. / Tracking People's Daily Ethiopia
Hezbollah says one of its commanders has been killed in a strike in southern Lebanon. / BBC News Alon Pinkas: Maybe the most ominous thing about an Israeli-Hezbollah war in Lebanon is the feeling that it's a foregone conclusion. / Haaretz In 2024, more than half of humanity will live
Xi's military leadership shake-up—apparently part of his plan to tackle corruption and disloyalty—raises questions about China's combat readiness. / The Wall Street Journal [+] The history of the US government's comic books, which run the gamut from educating Americans on safety to pushing all-out
Three years after Jan. 6, more than 80 people are yet to be identified for their roles in the violence, and the mystery of who placed the pipe bombs remains unsolved. / AP Related: This morning, three Jan. 6 fugitives were captured at a ranch in Florida. / NBC News A breakdown
The White House has confirmed that Russia has been using ballistic missiles provided by North Korea in Ukraine. / The Hill House Democrats claim during Trump's presidency his businesses took in at least $7.8 million from foreign entities—similar to what Republicans allege against Biden. / CBS News A
Technical difficulties prevented yesterday's newsletter from being published. Sorry about that. Recent events—the killing of a senior Hamas leader, explosions in Iran and Lebanon—raise fear of wider conflict in the Middle East. / Politico A round-up of trends likely to drive humanitarian need in 2024. / The New
A political crisis may be brewing in Israel, as its Supreme Court strikes down a law proposed by Netanyahu's government that would have limited the court's government oversight. / Axios As we head into a major election year, you can expect a tug of war over the
We asked some of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2023, and what were the least?
We'll be back with more headlines on Jan. 3. In the spirit of giving, here are some charities and groups favored by TMN contributors. Happy holidays! The Clean Air Task Force works to reduce air pollution in the US and beyond by pushing for the technology and policies
As Israel expands the ground war against Hamas, the Palestinian death toll tops 20,000—nearly 1% of Gaza's population before the war. / AP There's scant evidence to support Israel's claims that Hamas was using Gaza's largest hospital as a command and
The Pentagon says China hopes to double its nuclear arsenal to over 1,000 operational warheads by 2030. / BBC News Some thoughts on the three bomb problem: "In all likelihood the United States will continue to seek nuclear primacy behind a screen of superficially reasonable rhetoric." / The London
The European Union reaches a deal on how "to collectively receive, manage and relocate the irregular arrival of migrants." / Euronews Some thoughts on the current state of citizenship, and how the concept has been declining since the 1960s. / Sidecar Askfhsjkd, kkkk, awdjyt—how different societies laugh online. / rest
Footage of a volcano in south-west Iceland erupting, following weeks of seismic activity. / BBC News The United States announces a 10-nation task force to protect ships traveling through the Red Sea. / The Associated Press The British Library suffered a cyberattack back in October, and the library's reading rooms
Migrants from as far away as Africa and China are making their way through the jungle between Colombia and Panama to reach North America. / AP Fifty years ago, US auto regulations loosened the definition of "trucks," setting in motion an epidemic of bigger and bigger cars and more
A binder of classified intel on Russian election interference went missing at the end of Trump's presidency, and still hasn't been located. / CNN The British Library's vast digital collections vanished in a cyberattack. The physical editions remain intact, but we lost something nearly as
There were 34 legal abortions in Texas in the first half of the year, far below the expected number of cases where the mother's health is in danger. / STAT See also: "No sector of the Texas economy is immune." Fifty-one Texas businesses sign onto a letter
The House of Representatives votes to authorize an impeachment inquiry into President Biden. / BBC News Related: "An impeachment inquiry into Biden very likely does not happen without organizations like Fox News rewarding members of Congress." / Reliable Sources A report says the Ukraine war has cost Russia 315,000
The COP28 summit concludes with the world's governments agreeing that "the era of fossil-fuel consumption and production is ending." / Semafor The United States expects solar and wind power generation to surpass coal-fired energy for the first time in 2024. / AEE Related: "Noctalgia." "Global
The United Nations climate talks in Dubai, aka COP28, may be in jeopardy over a draft deal on fossil fuels deemed "weak." / BBC News Young people around the world are holding their governments accountable for climate change inaction. / The Kid Should See This A day in the life
Citing incorrect analysis, the National Retail Federation retracts its claim that "organized retail crime" is to blame for nearly half of shrink losses. / CNBC See also: "Nearly one in seven shoppers admitted to having purposely stolen items at self-checkout, and nearly half of those said they would
No surprise here, but scientists say 2023 will be the hottest year on record. / ABC News Jakarta is sinking, and what happens next could come down to one billionaire's plan to save the city—which would also rake in profits for one of his businesses. / Bloomberg The Electoral
Teenagers' math and reading skills are in an unprecedented decline across dozens of countries, and Covid is only partly to blame. / Reuters The world's largest iceberg is on the move for the first time in more than 35 years. / CNBC The United States' first utility-scale offshore
At least 2,456 fossil fuel lobbyists have passes to Dubai's COP28 climate talks. / Kick Big Polluters Out Jonathan Krishner: Washington's bipartisan hawkish consensus on China's hawkish intentions is wrong. / The Los Angeles Review of Books Related: Americans did the "China shock"
Young South Africans have a "love-hate relationship" with Nelson Mandela on the 10th anniversary of his death. / BBC News Mexican politicians find "a goldmine" among Swiftie fandoms on TikTok. / rest of world The United States breaks its record for the most mass shootings in a single
While everyone's paying attention to Gaza, Israeli settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank is on the rise—and could lead to outright war. / Vox Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen fired ballistic missiles on multiple vessels, including a US warship, which shot down three drones. / Associated Press
Fighting has resumed between Israel and Hamas—the White House blames the ceasefire's end on Hamas's failure to produce a new list of hostages for release. / Reuters Gaza City officials accuse Israel of deliberately destroying its main public library, home to thousands of books and historical
US life expectancy has rebounded by more than a year, but still remains below 2020 levels. / Associated Press Following on yesterday's news about African cocoa producers, farms in Ghana that supply the Mars company have children as young as five harvesting cocoa beans. / CBS News Untold numbers of
Peru's glaciers are melting, forming high mountain lagoons that are trapping Peruvians' water reserves—should the lagoons overflow, widespread flooding may follow. / Reuters The COP28 president has been using his role at the climate summit to lobby foreign governments on oil and gas deals. / Center for Climate
TMN is taking a break for the Thanksgiving holiday and will resume publishing on Wednesday, November 29. Hamas and Israel agree to a four-day ceasefire and an exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. / Al Jazeera The Harvard Law Review spikes a fact-checked article about genocide in Gaza. / The Intercept
Qatar's foreign ministry says negotiations between Israel and Hamas are in their "final stages" over a potential release of hostages. / Al Jazeera Casualities are mounting on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border. / The New York Times [+] Julien Barnes-Dacey and Jeremy Shapiro: Now's the moment
The Dept. of Defense fails its sixth consecutive Congressionally mandated audit, and doesn't appear to have any plans for that to change. / The Intercept When wildfires hit the tundra, thawing permafrost releases ancient carbon that converts into large amounts of methane, further accelerating climate change. / High Country News
New research finds gig workers may be missing from government job reports, which could have massive implications for how the Fed assesses inflation risk. / Reuters Signal's president breaks down what it costs to keep the platform afloat, which by 2025 will add up to around $50 million a
The FTC is trying to stop industry groups and nutrition influencers from pushing guidance without disclosing that it's paid advertising. / The Washington Post [+] Did Osama bin Laden's "Letter to America" really go viral on TikTok? Not exactly—and besides, how views are counted on
A long lull in Russian bombing has left people in Kyiv finally getting some decent sleep. / The New York Times [+] Of the 36,000 small- and medium-sized companies registered in Ukraine this year, 51% are run by women. / The Economist The IMF says central bank digital currencies have the potential
The United States now experiences a "billion dollar" disaster event every three weeks. (It was every four months in the 1980s.) / The Wall Street Journal [+] ICYMI: The veterans and civilians who volunteer to do disaster relief together as a form of group therapy. / GQ "Do we or
A high-ranking Israeli official says the country and Hamas are closing in on a deal to free some hostages. / The Washington Post From Gaza to Ukraine, Myanmar to Sudan, diplomats are "running out of bandwidth." / The Economist Global negotiators reconvene in Kenya to create a landmark treaty to
Launched on Saturday, a first-of-its-kind satellite will detect carbon dioxide emissions from individual facilities. / Reuters An explainer on the subsea cables that the internet depends on, and that will surely be targets in any sort of kinetic conflict." / CNET As if deepfaked nudes of private individuals weren't
Diagrams suggest how extensive Hamas militants' underground passageways under Gaza could be, and how the tunnels are used. / The New York Times [+] An explainer of what's going on with the multiple investigations into NYC Mayor Eric Adams's campaign fundraising. / The City "I asked him
Diagrams suggest how extensive Hamas militants' underground passageways under Gaza could be, and how the tunnels are used. / The New York Times [+] An explainer of what's going on with the multiple investigations into NYC Mayor Eric Adams's campaign fundraising. / The City "I asked him
Hundreds have reportedly been killed in ethnic murders in the Sudanese region of West Darfur, forcing thousands of people to flee. / BBC News Related: Gaza has the world's attention—as it should—yet no one seems to have noticed the world's largest child displacement crisis is
Hundreds of people have reportedly been killed in ethnic murders in the Sudanese region of West Darfur, forcing thousands more to flee. / BBC News Related: Gaza has the world's attention—as it should—yet no one seems to have noticed the world's largest child displacement crisis
Spain's Socialist Party secures the backing of Junts, a Catalan separatist party, to form a new government. / Reuters Guinea's former president, Moussa Dadis Camara, nearly broke out of prison last weekend. / Africa Is a Country An argument for Taiwan as China's "best province.
Spain's Socialists secure the backing of Junts, a Catalan separatist party, to form a new government. / Reuters Guinea's former president, Moussa Dadis Camara, nearly broke out of prison last weekend. / Africa Is a Country An argument for Taiwan as China's "best province."
The European Commission recommends that formal talks should begin with Ukraine on joining the European Union. / BBC News At least 45 American service members may have been injured in Iran-linked attacks. / NBC News Five takeaways from last night's off-year elections, where abortion rights fueled big Democratic wins. / Politico,
The European Commission recommends that formal talks should begin with Ukraine on joining the European Union. / BBC News At least 45 American service members may have been injured in Iran-linked attacks. / NBC News Five takeaways from last night's off-year elections, where abortion rights fueled big Democratic wins. / Politico,
Prime Minister Netanyahu says Israel intends to resume "overall security responsibility" for the Gaza Strip "for an indefinite period." / BBC News Watch: A day in the life of a young surgeon at al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza's largest medical facility. / Aljazeera China boasts the world'
US Marines with heavy artillery deployed to fight the Islamic State returned with a strange set of symptoms—which may have been caused by the very weapons they were using. / The New York Times [+] Around the US, cities are trying to enact laws to protect outdoor workers from extreme heat—
US Marines with heavy artillery deployed to fight the Islamic State returned with a strange set of symptoms—which may have been caused by the very weapons they were using. / The New York Times [+] Around the US, cities are trying to enact laws to protect outdoor workers from extreme heat—
Iran, Russia, and China are mounting anti-Israel disinformation campaigns that are "larger than anything seen before." / The New York Times [+] Retail workers and thieves explain what's going on with all the shoplifting, a problem the businesses don't seem to care about enough to try
Iran, Russia, and China are mounting anti-Israel disinformation campaigns that are "larger than anything seen before." / The New York Times [+] Retail workers and thieves explain what's going on with all the shoplifting, a problem the businesses don't seem to care about enough to try
By 2050, one in four people on the planet will be African, "a seismic change that's already starting to register." / The New York Times [+] South Africa's rugby team, which recently won the World Cup, is said to be among the few things holding the
By 2050, one in four people on the planet will be African, "a seismic change that's already starting to register." / The New York Times [+] South Africa's rugby team, which recently won the World Cup, is said to be among the few things holding the
Hamas says it's prepared to repeat October's attack on Israel over and over until the country no longer exists. / The Toronto Sun In the first days of the Israel-Hamas war, 15 people have been killed every hour in Gaza, six of whom are children. / Al Jazeera
Hamas says it's prepared to repeat October's attack on Israel over and over until the country no longer exists. / The Toronto Sun In the first days of the Israel-Hamas war, 15 people have been killed every hour in Gaza, six of whom are children. / Al Jazeera
The world's largest fusion reactor fires up in Japan and produces plasma. / Science China's first domestic gene-therapy breakthrough restores natural hearing pathways for deaf children. / MIT Technology Review Unrelated: The British Navy ends its tradition of "Chinese laundrymen on warships," and will now hire
The world's largest fusion reactor fires up in Japan and produces plasma. / Science Magazine China's first domestic gene-therapy breakthrough restores natural hearing pathways for deaf children. / MIT Technology Review Unrelated: The British Navy ends its tradition of "Chinese laundrymen on warships," and will now
David Remnick reports from Israel. "The only way to tell this story is to try to tell it truthfully and to know that you will fail." / The New Yorker "It's not even one house in Gaza that they don't have death." On
David Remnick reports from Israel. "The only way to tell this story is to try to tell it truthfully and to know that you will fail." / The New Yorker "It's not even one house in Gaza that they don't have death." On
The United Auto Workers have now reached a tentative deal with GM, effectively ending a 40-day strike against the big three Detroit automakers. / Reuters Shouting antisemitic slogans, a mob storms a Russian airport in search of passengers on a flight from Tel Aviv. / BBC Retail analysts say chains are blaming
The United Auto Workers have now reached a tentative deal with GM, effectively ending a 40-day strike against the big three Detroit automakers. / Reuters Shouting antisemitic slogans, a mob storms a Russian airport in search of passengers on a flight from Tel Aviv. / BBC Retail analysts say chains are blaming
Ethiopian-born scientist Gebisa Ejeta receives the National Medal of Science for his contribution to plant genetics. / BBC News A 2021 study predicted there would be a surplus of 8,000 emergency physicians by 2030 in the United States—and it had ripple effects. / STAT Colorectal cancer is highly curable when
Ethiopian-born scientist Gebisa Ejeta receives the National Medal of Science for his contribution to plant genetics. / BBC News A 2021 study predicted there would be a surplus of 8,000 emergency physicians by 2030 in the United States—and it had ripple effects. / STAT Colorectal cancer is highly curable when
The United States attacks two facilities in Syria used by Iran and Iran-backed groups, according to the Pentagon. / Al Jazeera The White House says Russia is killing soldiers who fail to follow orders, also threatening entire units with death. / The Associated Press A very long, very good assessment of China&
The United States attacks two facilities in Syria used by Iran and Iran-backed groups, according to the Pentagon. / Al Jazeera The White House says Russia is killing soldiers who fail to follow orders in Ukraine, also threatening entire units with death. / The Associated Press A very long, very good assessment
"We won things no one thought possible." The United Auto Workers reach a tentative agreement with Ford, as strikes remain at GM and Jeep maker Stellantis. / AP Following weeks of Republican infighting, hard-right election-denier Mike Johnson has been elected House speaker. / NPR This aged poorly—from Tuesday, "
"We won things no one thought possible." The United Auto Workers reach a tentative agreement with Ford, as strikes remain at Jeep maker Stellantis and GM. / AP Following weeks of Republican infighting, hard-right election-denier Mike Johnson has been elected House speaker. / NPR This aged poorly—from Tuesday, "
Analyzing the missile video that purports to provide evidence of what happened at the Gaza hospital blast. / The New York Times [+] At the UN, the US wants "humanitarian pauses" for aid to reach Gaza, and Israel calls for the Secretary-General to resign for saying Israel bears some responsibility
Analyzing the missile video that purports to provide evidence of what happened at the Gaza hospital blast. / The New York Times [+] At the UN, the US wants "humanitarian pauses" for aid to reach Gaza, and Israel calls for the Secretary-General to resign for saying Israel bears some responsibility
No matter what measures are taken to reduce emissions, the West Antarctic Ice Sheet will continue melting, according to a new study. / Reuters Though Jim Jordan lost his bid for House speaker, how Republicans voted shows how the party's right wing may win out soon enough. / The New
No matter what measures are taken to reduce emissions, the West Antarctic Ice Sheet will continue melting, according to a new study. / Reuters Though Jim Jordan lost his bid for House speaker, how Republicans voted shows how the party's right wing may win out soon enough. / The New
Israel's Defense Minister says its upcoming ground offensive in the Gaza Strip may last three months. / The Times of Israel The White House promises a "continued flow" of aid into Gaza. / NBC News China launches a tax investigation into Foxconn, Taiwan's iPhone maker. / Reuters
Israel is pressed to delay its ground offensive. Israel's Defense Minister says its attack plan may last three months. / Al Jazeera, The Times of Israel The White House promises a "continued flow" of aid into Gaza. / NBC News China launches a (seemingly) politically motivated tax investigation
The first humanitarian aid convoy has arrived in the Gaza Strip. Israel says the aid doesn't include fuel, and can only go to areas where civilians have amassed. / Reuters Diagrams of Gaza's dense neighborhoods explain what a ground war could look like—and how Hamas has
The first humanitarian aid convoy has arrived in the Gaza Strip. Israel says the aid doesn't include fuel, and can only go to areas where civilians have amassed. / Reuters Diagrams of Gaza's dense neighborhoods explain what a ground war could look like—and how Hamas has
The Biden administration is asking Congress for $105 billion in a package that includes aid and resources for Ukraine and Israel. / CNN Yesterday, a US warship intercepted three cruise missiles and several drones launched from Iran-aligned Houthi fighters in Yemen, potentially toward Israel. / Reuters With people now down to an
The Biden administration is asking Congress for $105 billion in a package that includes aid and resources for Ukraine and Israel. / CNN Yesterday, a US warship intercepted three cruise missiles and several drones launched from Iran-aligned Houthi fighters in Yemen, potentially toward Israel. / Reuters With people now down to an
President Biden is expected to ask Congress to approve $100 billion in emergency funds to arm Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan. / Reuters At least 15 journalists have been killed in the first 10 days of the Hamas-Israel war. / axios Misinformation on X has reached unprecedented levels, with aggregators posting thousands of
President Biden is expected to ask Congress to approve $100 billion in emergency funds to arm Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan. / Reuters At least 15 journalists have been killed in the first 10 days of the Hamas-Israel war. / axios Misinformation on X has reached unprecedented levels, with aggregators posting thousands of
China and the Kremlin see an opportunity in the Israel-Hamas war to distract and discredit the United States. / The Wall Street Journal [+] Minxin Pei: "The weaker they both are, the greater their incentive to hang together." / Bloomberg Analysis of how the war is being interpreted differently in the
China and the Kremlin see an opportunity in the Israel-Hamas war to distract and discredit the United States. / The Wall Street Journal [+] Minxin Pei: "The weaker they both are, the greater their incentive to hang together." / Bloomberg Maziar Motamedi explains why Jordan cancelled its summit with President Biden.
Some 400,000 of Gaza's 1.1 million residents have feld south, following Israel's order to leave. / BBC News Even before the Israeli evacuation order, one-fifth of Gaza's population had been displaced. / The Economist President Biden prepares to visit Israel and Jordan tomorrow. / The
Some 400,000 of Gaza's 1.1 million residents have feld south, following Israel's order to leave. / BBC News Even before the Israeli evacuation order, one-fifth of Gaza's population had been displaced. / The Economist President Biden prepares to visit Israel and Jordan tomorrow. / The
Iran: "It is highly probable that many other fronts will be opened" if Israel mounts a ground invasion of Gaza. / Al Jazeera The Likud government is pushing regulations to imprison Israelis who spread information that could "harm national morale" or be used for enemy propaganda. / Haaretz
Iran: "It is highly probable that many other fronts will be opened" if Israel mounts a ground invasion of Gaza. / Al Jazeera The Likud government is pushing regulations to imprison Israelis who spread information that could "harm national morale" or be used for enemy propaganda. / Haaretz
Thomas Friedman: "Now Israel believes it must restore its deterrence by proving that it can outcrazy Hamas's latest craziness." / The New York Times [+] Related: A senior Hamas political leader explains the group's strategy. / The New Yorker "There is an unspoken but notable fervor
Thomas Friedman: "Now Israel believes it must restore its deterrence by proving that it can outcrazy Hamas's latest craziness." / The New York Times [+] Related: A senior Hamas political leader explains the group's strategy. / The New Yorker "There is an unspoken but notable fervor
With a ground attack in northern Gaza imminent, Israel's military warns around 1.1 million Palestinians to evacuate within 24 hours. / CBS News The UN's response: "This will only lead to unprecedented levels of misery and further push people in Gaza into abyss." / Reuters
With a ground attack in northern Gaza imminent, Israel's military warns around 1.1 million Palestinians to evacuate within 24 hours. / CBS News The UN's response: "This will only lead to unprecedented levels of misery and further push people in Gaza into abyss." / Reuters
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman speak on the phone about the Israel-Hamas war. / Al Jazeera American intelligence says Iranian leaders were surprised by the operation. / The New York Times [+] In case your social media is flooding with misinformation about the war, here are some
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman speak on the phone about the Israel-Hamas war. / Al Jazeera American intelligence says Iranian leaders were surprised by the operation. / The New York Times [+] In case your social media is flooding with misinformation about the war, here are some
Israel's defense minister "releases all restraints" on troops. Hamas and Israel at war: what we know on day five. / The Times of Israel, The Guardian Unpacking how X and Telegram beat television networks this weekend to report on Hamas's attack. / Haaretz The notion of
Israel’s defense minister “releases all restraints” on troops in Gaza. TK CIV DEATHS / The Times of Israel Unpacking how Twitter and Telegram beat television networks this weekend to report on Hamas’s attack. / Haaretz The notion of “the poverty line” dominates the language of international development, and there may
Updates on the war in Gaza. The United States sends a carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean. / The Associated Press Jonathan Guyer: Everyone forgot about the Palestinians, and Biden's focus on Israel-Saudi talks may have lit a match. / Vox "It inevitably creates a situation that leaves
Updates on the war in Gaza, while the United States sends a carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean. / The Associated Press Jonathan Guyer: Everyone forgot about the Palestinians, and President Biden's focus on Israel-Saudi talks may have lit a match. / Vox "It inevitably creates a situation
Netanyahu says Israel is "at war" after Palestinian militants fired around 2,200 rockets into Israeli territory. / CNN See also: Maps and videos chronicle this morning's rapid escalation in fighting. / The Washington Post [+] 23AndMe confirms stolen data from Ashkenazi Jews is circulating on the dark web.
Netanyahu says Israel is "at war" after Palestinian militants fired around 2,200 rockets into Israeli territory. / CNN See also: Maps and videos chronicle this morning's rapid escalation in fighting. / The Washington Post [+] 23AndMe confirms stolen data from Ashkenazi Jews is circulating on the dark web.
Following a two-year battle, a federal court orders Alabama to use a redrawn congressional map—here's how the decision will change the makeup of districts. / The New York Times [+] Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi, jailed but still fighting the regime's oppression against women, wins the Nobel Peace
Following a two-year battle, a federal court orders Alabama to use a redrawn congressional map—here's how the decision will change the makeup of districts. / The New York Times [+] Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi, jailed but still fighting the regime's oppression against women, wins the Nobel Peace
Climate change is making public health gains harder to achieve and undoing some of the world's hard-earned progress. / The New York Times [+] In a quarter of counties in the United States, mostly in the South and Midwest, working-age people are dying at a higher rate than 40 years
Climate change is making public health gains harder to achieve and undoing some of the world's hard-earned progress. / The New York Times [+] In a quarter of counties in the United States, working-age people are dying at a higher rate than 40 years ago. / The Washington Post Related: Some
Anticipating winter, Russia attacks Ukraine's power grid with missiles, drones, and cyber attacks. / The Economist NATO says its members are running out of ammunition to supply to Ukraine. / CNN Slovakia's recent election shows how vulnerable other democracies are to Moscow's "weapons of mass
Anticipating winter, Russia attacks Ukraine's power grid with missiles, drones, and cyber attacks. / The Economist NATO says its members are running out of ammunition to supply Ukraine. / CNN Slovakia's recent election shows how vulnerable other democracies are to Moscow's "weapons of mass manipulation.
Climate change and the rapid evolution of mosquitoes are driving up malaria deaths. / The New York Times [+] Related: A cheap malaria vaccine that can be produced on a massive scale has been recommended for use by the World Health Organization. / BBC News In light of yesterday's Nobel winners,
Climate change and the rapid evolution of mosquitoes are driving up malaria deaths. / The New York Times [+] Related: A cheap malaria vaccine that can be produced on a massive scale has been recommended for use by the World Health Organization. / BBC News Three physicists win the Nobel Prize for exploring
The Panama Canal Authority says that due to ongoing drought conditions, it will again reduce the daily number of ships that can travel the waterway. / AP "The past month in Tefé has seemed like a science-fiction climate-change scenario." More than 100 Amazonian river dolphins have died over the
The Panama Canal Authority says that due to ongoing drought conditions, it will again reduce the daily number of ships that can travel the waterway. / AP "The past month in Tefé has seemed like a science-fiction climate-change scenario." More than 100 Amazonian river dolphins have died over the
A suspect who police say was the "shot caller" in Tupac Shakur's murder has been arrested, 27 years after the shooting. / AP Photos and videos of the sudden, intense flooding yesterday in New York City. / Digg "All drainage systems have their limitations and New York
A suspect who police say was the "shot caller" in Tupac Shakur's murder has been arrested, 27 years after the shooting. / AP Photos and videos of the sudden, intense flooding yesterday in New York City. / Digg "All drainage systems have their limitations and New York
Google, Meta, and H&R Block "jointly schemed" to scrape and transmit taxpayers' data, alleges a new class-action lawsuit. / Gizmodo Cochran County, Texas, which borders New Mexico, has passed an ordinance prohibiting travel on its roads for the purpose of seeking an abortion. / Lubbock Avalanche-Journal A
Google, Meta, and H&R Block "jointly schemed" to scrape and transmit taxpayers' data, alleges a new class-action lawsuit. / Gizmodo Cochran County, Texas, which borders New Mexico, has passed an ordinance prohibiting travel on its roads for the purpose of seeking an abortion. / Lubbock Avalanche-Journal A
The price of crude oil surges to $97.56 a barrel, its highest price in more than a year. / CNBC Foreign direct investment in China was just $4.9 billion in the second quarter of 2023, down by 94% from the same period in 2021. / The Economist Switzerland's
The price of crude oil surges to $97.56 a barrel, its highest price in more than a year. / CNBC Foreign direct investment in China was just $4.9 billion in the second quarter of 2023, down by 94% from the same period in 2021. / The Economist Switzerland's
A top European Union official says that X, formerly known as Twitter, is the biggest source of fake news. / Quartz See also: A data-driven overview of populist, far-left and far-right parties in Europe from 1989 until 2022. / The PopuList Amazon's new Cape Town headquarters is on a site
In just a decade, China has amassed the world's largest coast guard fleet, and its patrol vessels often resemble warships. / The New York Times [+] With elections looming, "China wants Taiwanese voters to think America is their greatest threat." / The Economist With elections scheduled in Poland and
As the Northern Hemisphere emerges from the hottest summer on record, South America exits winter with temperatures pushing 110 degrees in parts of Brazil. / Grist Since the beginning of summer, Ukraine has "massively" stepped up strikes on the Crimean peninsula. / The Economist For United States foreign policy, the
As the Northern Hemisphere emerges from the hottest summer on record, South America exits winter with temperatures pushing 110 degrees in parts of Brazil. / Grist Since the beginning of summer, Ukraine has "massively" stepped up strikes on the Crimean peninsula. / The Economist For US foreign policy, the ouster
NASA has brought back its first asteroid samples—the 4.5 billion-year-old specimens are the largest sample return since the Apollo moon landings. / AP Biden's push to remove medical debt from credit scores is a good start, advocates say, but should extend to banning medical credit cards and
NASA has brought back its first asteroid samples—the 4.5 billion-year-old specimens are the largest sample return since the Apollo moon landings. / AP Biden's push to remove medical debt from credit scores is a good start, advocates say, but should extend to banning medical credit cards and
The US and Vietnam may be approaching the largest-ever arms transfer ever between the countries—edging out Russia, which has been Vietnam's main supplier since 2016. / Reuters For only the second time in history, surgeons have transplanted a heart from a genetically engineered pig into a human. / STAT
The US and Vietnam may be approaching the largest-ever arms transfer ever between the countries—edging out Russia, which has been Vietnam's main supplier since 2016. / Reuters For only the second time in history, surgeons have transplanted a heart from a genetically engineered pig into a human. / STAT
"Wearing radiation monitors, safety goggles, and seven layers of gloves, they practice shaping new warhead plutonium cores—by hand." How America maintains its aging nuclear weapons. / AP America's relationship with air conditioning went from fascination to addiction in the 20th century—from here on out, life
"Wearing radiation monitors, safety goggles, and seven layers of gloves, they practice shaping new warhead plutonium cores—by hand." How America maintains its aging nuclear weapons. / AP America's relationship with air conditioning went from fascination to addiction in the 20th century—from here on out, life
Russia launches a large aerial assault on several Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv. / The South China Morning Post In 2022, South Korea sold $17 billion in weapons, more than twice the amount of the previous year. / The Economist Syrian President Bashar al-Assad goes to China for a bilateral summit with President
Russia launches a large aerial assault on several Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv. / The South China Morning Post In 2022 South Korea sold $17 billion in weapons, more than twice the amount of the previous year. / The Economist Syrian President al-Assad goes to China for a bilateral summit with President Xi.
A study finds that 98% of Europeans live in areas with highly damaging fine particulate pollution. / The Guardian A climate research firm says 39 million homes in the United States are at risk of losing their insurance. / Axios More than a year ahead of its deadline, California installs 10,000
A study finds that 98% of Europeans live in areas with highly damaging fine particulate pollution. / The Guardian A climate research firm says 39 million homes in the United States are at risk of losing their insurance. / Axios More than a year ahead of its deadline, California installs 10,000
Congressional Republicans are divided on a short-term bill to fund the government through Halloween. / The Hill One theory about our government shutdowns: maybe blame it on Congress's embrace of air conditioning. / Politico Seoul has a 3,000 square meter void underneath one of its most iconic plazas. / The
Congressional Republicans are divided on a short-term bill to fund the government through Halloween. / The Hill One theory about our government shutdowns: maybe blame it on Congress's embrace of air conditioning. / Politico A windowless telecommunications hub in New York City "embodies an architecture of surveillance and paranoia.
In a deal that also releases $6 billion in Iranian funds frozen by sanctions, the US and Iran swap five detainees each. / Reuters Vocational schools in China are providing student labor to annotate data in order to feed the country's AI industry. / Rest of World The "healthy
In a deal that also releases $6 billion in Iranian funds frozen by sanctions, the US and Iran swap five detainees each. / Reuters Vocational schools in China are providing student labor to annotate data in order to feed the country's AI industry. / Rest of World The "healthy
The death toll from flooding in the Libyan coastal city of Serna has now reached an astonishing 11,300 people. / Al Jazeera The CDC says that, compared to last year, it's expecting a similar number of hospitalizations this year from Covid, RSV, and flu. / Reuters Related: "Some
The death toll from flooding in the Libyan coastal city of Serna has now reached an astonishing 11,300 people. / Al Jazeera The CDC says that, compared to last year, it's expecting a similar number of hospitalizations this year from Covid, RSV, and flu. / Reuters Related: "Some
Nigeria gets hit by widespread power cuts following a "total system collapse." / BBC News Increasing protectionism in South Africa, which currently has an unemployment rate around 30 percent, hurts thousands of skilled migrants. / rest of world Previously known as the murder capital of the world, Medellín, Colombia, is
Nigeria gets hit by widespread power cuts following a "total system collapse." / BBC News Increasing protectionism in South Africa, which currently has an unemployment rate around 30 percent, hurts thousands of skilled migrants. / rest of world Previously known as the murder capital of the world, Medellín, Colombia, is
Officials in Libya say more than 5,000 people died after the flooding in Derna, and some 10,000 are reported missing. / Reuters NASA publishes maps from the first space probe designed to measure air quality above North America. / It's Nice That As climate change fuels the destruction
Officials in Libyasay more than 5,000 people died after the flooding in Derna, and some 10,000 are reported missing. / Reuters NASA publishes maps from the first space probe designed to measure air quality above North America. / It's Nice That As climate change fuels the destruction of
Much of the Libyan city Derna is under water after two dams and four bridges collapsed, killing at least 1,500. / BBC News A new report finds the United States responsible for more than a third of the expansion of global oil and gas production planned by mid-century. / Oil Change
Much of the Libyan cityDerna is under water after two dams and four bridges collapse, killing at least 1,500. / BBC News A new report finds the United States responsible for more than a third of the expansion of global oil and gas production planned by mid-century. / Oil Change International
The death toll in the Morocco earthquake has now topped 2,100, as survivors struggle to find food, water, and shelter. / Reuters Covid cases and hospitalizations are rising, mask debates are brewing, and boosters are coming: "This is our life now." / STAT After entering the tournament as a
The death toll in the Morocco earthquake has now topped 2,100, as survivors struggle to find food, water, and shelter. / Reuters Covid cases and hospitalizations are rising, mask debates are brewing, and boosters are coming: "This is our life now." / STAT After entering the tournament as a
More than 1,000 people have died in Morocco in the strongest earthquake to strike the country in 120 years. / AP For all the countries that are not China, Russia, or the US, hedging remains a sound strategy—though one that becomes harder to maintain over time. / Foreign Affairs Apple&
More than 1,000 people have died in Morocco in the strongest earthquake to strike the country in 120 years. / AP For all the countries that are not China, Russia, or the US, hedging remains a sound strategy—though one that becomes harder to maintain over time. / Foreign Affairs Apple&
Mexico's Supreme Court decriminalized abortion this week, ruling all federal health services and institutions must provide the procedure to anyone who requests it. / ABC This summer, heat records in the northern hemisphere were "not just broken but smashed." / Financial Times Related: August was the second hottest
Mexico's Supreme Court decriminalized abortion this week, ruling all federal health services and institutions must provide the procedure to anyone who requests it. / ABC This summer, heat records in the northern hemisphere were "not just broken but smashed." / Financial Times Related: August was the second hottest
The "new" Middle East has more money and less war—but now here comes the climate crisis. / The Economist The Biden Administration moves to cancel all remaining oil and gas leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. / Grist The chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party is a
Palestinian officials present their list of demands in the event of a historic deal involving Israel and Saudi Arabia. / BBC News See also: The "new" Middle East has more money and less war—but now here comes the climate crisis. / The Economist The Biden Administration moves to cancel
The European Union says six tech companies—including Alphabet, Amazon and Apple—will be subject to new antitrust regulations. / NBC News Unrelated: A platform for discovering facts about representation in street names across Europe. / Mapping Diversity Bullet points for the "pretty big mess" that Congress returns to after
Flooding caused by heavy rain leads to at least 10 deaths in Bulgaria, Turkey, and Greece. / BBC News The European Union says six tech companies—including Alphabet, Amazon and Apple—will be subject to new antitrust regulations. / NBC News Unrelated: A platform for discovering facts about representation in street names
Spotted lanternflies, the "Labor Day pest," seem like a plague to residents of New York City and Pittsburgh. Invasive hornets are "wreaking havoc" in mainland Europe. / MSNBC, BBC News Unrelated: Werner Herzog pays tribute to a family that adopted him (in Pittsburgh). / The New Yorker The
Spotted lanternflies, the "Labor Day pest," seem like a plague to some residents of New York City and Pittsburgh. / MSNBC Invasive hornets are "wreaking havoc" in mainland Europe. / BBC News Blending the two: German director Werner Herzog pays tribute to a family that adopted him (in
We'll be off for the holiday weekend—see you Tuesday! Hospitalizations in the US are up 39% due to the new Omicron subvariant, nicknamed Eris—the Greek goddess of strife. / The Independent, The Theoi Project The White House is offering automakers and suppliers $12 billion in grants to
We'll be off for the holiday weekend—see you Tuesday! Hospitalizations in the US are up 39% due to the new Omicron subvariant, nicknamed Eris—the Greek goddess of strife. / The Independent, The Theoi Project The White House is offering automakers and suppliers $12 billion in grants to
Tropical storm Idalia knocks out power for thousands in the Carolinas after leaving a trail of destruction across the Southeast. / CNN Climate protesters park a 28-foot trailer across the road to Burning Man, causing miles of gridlock. / Vox A pharmacist in DC admits she's filled Alzheimer's
Tropical storm Idalia knocks out power for thousands in the Carolinas after leaving a trail of wreckage across the Southeast. / CNN Climate protesters park a 28-foot trailer across the entry road to Burning Man, causing miles of gridlock. / Vox A pharmacist in DC admits she's filled prescriptions for
The Kremlin accuses Ukraine of launching strikes on targets in six Russian regions. / The Associated Press A profile of Ukranian tennis player Evita Svitolina about the impact of Russia's war in her country and her sport. / The New York Times Magazine See also: What it's like,
The Kremlin accuses Ukraine of launching strikes on targets in six Russian regions. / The Associated Press A profile of Ukranian tennis player Evita Svitolina about the impact of Russia's war on her country and her sport. / The New York Times Magazine See also: What it's like,
Medicare announces the 10 drugs that will be up first for price negotiation. / STAT News Scientists search for ways to improve air quality in dilapidated school buildings in order to prevent Covid breakouts. / The New York Times In today's Covid wave, experts advise putting a mask on if
Medicare announces the 10 drugs that will be up first for price negotiation. / STAT News Scientists search for ways to improve air quality in school buildings in order to prevent Covid breakouts. / The New York Times In today's Covid wave, experts advise putting a mask on if you&
The FAA has been investigating around 4,800 active pilots who are still flying, yet collecting veterans benefits for disabilities that could ground them. / The Washington Post Tropical Storm Idalia appears poised to become a hurricane, and is projected to rake across Florida and Georgia later this week. / Orlando Sentinel
The FAA has been investigating around 4,800 active pilots who are still flying, yet collecting veterans benefits for disabilities that could ground them. / The Washington Post Tropical Storm Idalia appears poised to become a hurricane, and is projected to rake across Florida and Georgia later this week. / Orlando Sentinel
The new, highly mutated Covid variant—BA.2.86—still appears to be in "low numbers," but is now spreading to multiple countries. / Reuters While health officials are still trying to understand the new variant, it appears to have greater potential to evade antibodies. / The Washington Post More
The new, highly mutated Covid variant—BA.2.86—still appears to be in "low numbers," but is now spreading to multiple countries. / Reuters While health officials are still trying to understand the new variant, it appears to have greater potential to evade antibodies. / The Washington Post More
Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the mercenary Wagner Group, is believed dead after a private jet crashes near Moscow. The cause of the crash remains unclear. / Reuters See also: In Russia, nobody expects to be told the truth. / The Economist A Russian court extends the detention of Wall Street Journal reporter
Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the mercenary Wagner Group, is believed dead after a private jet crashes near Moscow. The cause of the crash remains unclear. / Reuters ICYMI: Joshua Yaffa's long look inside the Wagner Group's uprising. / The New Yorker See also: In Russia, nobody expects to
India becomes the first country to land a spacecraft near the Moon's south pole. / Space Ronan Farrow on Elon Musk's emerging role at the Pentagon. "We'll talk to you if Elon wants us to." / The New Yorker Fires that have killed 20
India becomes the first country to land a spacecraft near the Moon's south pole. / Space Ronan Farrow reports on Elon Musk's emerging role at the Pentagon. "We'll talk to you if Elon wants us to." / The New Yorker In Greece, fires that
To pass exemptions for Texas's abortion ban, a new state law—which focuses on how the previous legislation threatens mothers' lives—avoids the word "abortion." / NPR In history and experiments, randomly chosen leaders perform more democratically than elected officials. / The New York Times See also:
To pass exemptions for Texas's abortion ban, a new state law—which focuses on how the previous legislation threatens mothers' lives—avoids the word "abortion." / NPR In history and experiments, randomly chosen leaders perform more democratically than elected officials. / The New York Times See also:
Hilary brings historic flooding to Southern California—here are photos and videos of the devastation. It's the first tropical storm to hit the area since 1939. / Axios, Digg, The New York Times See also: Why the US was unprepared for this summer's extreme heat. / POLITICO Russia&
Hilary brings historic flooding to Southern California—here are photos and videos of the devastation. It's the first tropical storm to hit the area since 1939. / Axios, Digg, The New York Times See also: Why the US was unprepared for this summer's extreme heat. / POLITICO Russia&
A new, highly mutated Covid variant differs from the latest omicron subvariant by more than 30 amino acid changes—a similar scale to what originally led to omicron. / CNN "It's really difficult to torque up a planet...but relatively simple to change the moment of inertia and
A new, highly mutated Covid variant differs from the latest omicron subvariant by more than 30 amino acid changes—a similar scale to what originally led to omicron. / CNN "It's really difficult to torque up a planet...but relatively simple to change the moment of inertia and
A US appeals court has now ruled that mifepristone should remain on the market, but must be obtained through in-person doctor visits and cannot be mailed. / NPR In a major step toward using animal organs to save people, for over a month a pig's kidney has been working
A US appeals court has now ruled that mifepristone should remain on the market, but must be obtained through in-person doctor visits and cannot be mailed. / NPR In a major step toward using animal organs to save people, for over a month a pig's kidney has been working
"The timing right now is a little bit funny." With Covid again on the rise, experts weigh in on whether you should get a booster now or wait until fall. / NPR A new report says Earth is facing an "unprecedented water crisis," citing increasing demand and
"The timing right now is a little bit funny." With Covid again on the rise, experts weigh in on whether you should get a booster now or wait until fall. / NPR A new report says Earth is facing an "unprecedented water crisis," citing increasing demand and
A Georgia grand jury indicts Donald Trump and 18 others for an alleged racketeering scheme to overturn the state's 2020 election results. / NPR John Dean, White House counsel to former President Richard Nixon, says the indictment is "a very, very impressive document." / The Week Record companies
A Georgia grand jury indicts Donald Trump and 18 others for an alleged racketeering scheme to overturn the state's 2020 election results. / NPR John Dean, White House counsel to former President Richard Nixon, calls the indictment "a very, very impressive document." / The Week Small-scale experiments around
Local police raid a Marion County, Kan., newspaper office, seizing computers and reporters' devices, in what appears to be a violation of federal law. / Kansas Reflector Music labels are suing the Internet Archive over its "Great 78 Project," which contains recordings between 1878 and the 1950s. / TorrentFreak
Local police raid a Marion County, Kan., newspaper office, seizing computers and reporters' devices, in what appears to be a violation of federal law. / Kansas Reflector Music labels are suing the Internet Archive over its "Great 78 Project," which contains recordings between 1878 and the 1950s. / TorrentFreak
As Hawaii's death toll climbs to 80 people, the state attorney general announces an investigation into decisions that were made before, during, and after the wildfires. / Honolulu Star-Advertiser The WHO says worldwide Covid cases have risen 80% over the past month, but the true number may be higher
As Hawaii's death toll climbs to 80 people, the state attorney general announces an investigation into decisions that were made before, during, and after the wildfires. / Honolulu Star-Advertiser The WHO says worldwide Covid cases have risen 80% over the past month, but the true number may be higher
At least 55 people have now died in the Maui wildfires, and more than 1,700 buildings have been destroyed. / The Honolulu Star-Advertiser How a changing environment—with less precipitation and more invasive species—dried out Hawaii's landscape and increased its susceptibility to wildfires. / The New York Times
At least 55 people have now died in the Maui wildfires, and more than 1,700 buildings have been destroyed. / The Honolulu Star-Advertiser How a changing environment—with less precipitation and more invasive species—dried out Hawaii's landscape and increased its susceptibility to wildfires. / The New York Times
Fires on Maui kill at least 36 and destroy historic Lahaina, the Hawaiian kingdom’s original seat of power. / The Honolulu Star Advertiser The term “global warming” first appeared in print 48 years ago this week. / History To prepare for future heat waves, cities and architects need to think past
Fires on Maui kill at least 36 and destroy historic Lahaina, the Hawaiian kingdom's original seat of power. / The Honolulu Star Advertiser The term "global warming" first appeared in print 48 years ago this week. / History To prepare for future heat waves, cities and architects need
China's economy slips into deflation, with consumer prices falling for the first time in more than two years. / CNN The United States has a new Covid-19 strain, nicknamed Eris, which the CDC estimates is causing 17.3 percent of current cases. / Vox Evidence suggests social media is serving
China's economy slips into deflation, with consumer prices falling for the first time in more than two years. / CNN The United States has a new Covid-19 strain, nicknamed Eris, estimated to be causing 17 percent of current cases. / Vox Evidence suggests social media is serving as an accelerant
Italy's government approves a 40% tax on its major banks' 2023 windfall profits. / The Guardian Why does Britain export 80% of its oil? "It makes far more sense for individuals to focus on what they're good at." / Material World Some thoughts on the
Italy's government approves a 40% tax on its major banks' 2023 windfall profits. / The Guardian Why does Britain export 80% of its oil? "It makes far more sense for individuals to focus on what they're good at." / Material World Some thoughts on the
From outright lies to demands for loyalty, Trump's actions following his latest indictment follow an authoritarian playbook. / NPR Ocean temperatures are rising, in part because of a 2020 measure to reduce ships' sulfur emissions, resulting in lower cloud coverage overall. / The Telegraph "Google knows my home
From outright lies to demands for loyalty, Trump's actions following his latest indictment follow an authoritarian playbook. / NPR Ocean temperatures are rising, in part because of a 2020 measure to reduce ships' sulfur emissions, resulting in lower cloud coverage overall. / The Telegraph "Google knows my home
Federal prosecutors seek measures to bar Trump from disclosing evidence, citing his social media posts that could result in witness tampering. / NBC News A Texas judge issues an injunction allowing women with complicated pregnancies to receive abortions, and shielding doctors who provide care from prosecution. / The Texas Tribune In a
Federal prosecutors seek measures to bar Trump from disclosing evidence, citing his social media posts that could result in witness tampering. / NBC News A Texas judge issues an injunction allowing women with complicated pregnancies to receive abortions, and shielding doctors who provide care from prosecution. / The Texas Tribune In a
Florida has "effectively banned" AP psychology after the College Board declined to remove gender and sexual orientation material from coursework. / The Washington Post "The rates of suicide, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are skyrocketing." The health effects of extreme heat are worse than you think. / STAT
Florida has "effectively banned" AP psychology after the College Board declined to remove gender and sexual orientation material from coursework. / The Washington Post "The rates of suicide, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are skyrocketing." The health effects of extreme heat are worse than you think. / STAT
The oddity of the federal indictment of former President Donald Trump is that a great deal of it "is already quite familiar." / Lawfare Richard L. Hasen: It is hard to overstate the stakes riding on this indictment. / Slate Joyce Vance: Trump is finding out that democracy and the
One oddity of former President Trump's federal indictment is that a great deal of it "is already quite familiar." / Lawfare Richard L. Hasen: It is hard to overstate the stakes riding on this indictment. / Slate Joyce Vance: Trump is finding out that democracy and the Constitution
Donald Trump is charged with four federal counts connected to his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. / NPR Fitch downgrades the United States' credit rating partly due to a "steady deterioration" in fiscal governance—e.g., all the debt-ceiling standoffs. / Reuters A good overview of China&
Donald Trump is charged with four federal counts connected to his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. / NPR Fitch downgrades the United States' credit rating partly due to a "steady deterioration" in fiscal governance—e.g., all the debt-ceiling standoffs. / Reuters A good overview of China&
Among 18 high-income countries, the United States has fallen to dead last on life expectancy. / The Economist As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve into "a global investment powerhouse," some thoughts on the prospects of a Saudi century. / The New Statesman Related: Walmart didn't just compete with
Among 18 high-income countries, the United States is now dead last on life expectancy. / The Economist As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve into "a global investment powerhouse," some thoughts on the prospects of a Saudi century. / The New Statesman Related: Walmart didn't just compete with small
At least 43 people were killed by a suicide bomber at a political rally in Pakistan, in what may be escalating tensions between groups aligned with ISIS and the Taliban. / The Week The coup in Niger completes a coast-to-coast line of six African countries now under military rule, almost all
At least 43 people were killed by a suicide bomber at a political rally in Pakistan, in what may be escalating tensions between groups aligned with ISIS and the Taliban. / The Week The coup in Niger completes a coast-to-coast line of six African countries now under military rule, almost all
Medical board disciplinary records reveal that US doctors who spread Covid misinformation faced few repercussions. / The Washington Post "Things don't just snap back to normal." Removing CO2 from the atmosphere won't entirely undo climate change—it's vital to avoid polluting in the
Medical board disciplinary records reveal that US doctors who spread Covid misinformation faced few repercussions. / The Washington Post "Things don't just snap back to normal." Removing CO2 from the atmosphere won't entirely undo climate change—it's vital to avoid polluting in the
China plans to increase its global power by building overseas ethnic-Chinese communities. / The Washington Post A tally of 900 tech firms around the world finds more than 220,000 jobs cut in 2023. / The Economist Seven global automakers band together to build an electric vehicle charging network in North America.
China plans to increase its global power by building overseas ethnic-Chinese communities. / The Washington Post A tally of 900 tech firms around the world finds more than 220,000 jobs cut in 2023. / The Economist Seven global automakers band together to build an electric vehicle charging network in North America.
Russia raises the conscription age to 30, making more men liable to serve in the armed forces. / BBC News Ukraine demonstrates the power small countries can wield, but its "sovereignty, democracy and post-war stability are Europe's to lose." / Eurozine The total number of Japanese citizens falls
Russia raises its conscription age to 30, making more men liable to serve in the armed forces. / BBC News Ukraine demonstrates the power small countries can wield, but its "sovereignty, democracy and post-war stability are Europe's to lose." / Eurozine The total number of Japanese citizens falls
For the first time known to scientists, Antarctic sea ice extent has been unable to substantially recover over the winter. / ABC News "It should be obvious by now that fossil fuel companies have no real plans to change in response to the climate crisis." / The Los Angeles Times
For the first time known to scientists, Antarctic sea ice extent has been unable to substantially recover over the winter. / ABC News "It should be obvious by now that fossil fuel companies have no real plans to change in response to the climate crisis." / The Los Angeles Times
Russia's defense ministry says it downed two drones—which it claims were Ukrainian—over Moscow. / The Guardian According to a new study, watching a one-minute gun-safety video can influence whether children pull the trigger after finding a firearm. / The Washington Post Why pedestrian deaths are on the rise
Russia's defense ministry says it downed two drones—which it claims were Ukrainian—over Moscow. / The Guardian According to a new study, watching a one-minute gun-safety video can influence whether children pull the trigger after finding a firearm. / The Washington Post Why pedestrian deaths are on the rise
The UN warns of food shortages and price increases from Russia's continued assault on Ukraine's grain exports. / Reuters Alabama's new congressional map, now approved by the governor, flouts a court order requiring two majority-Black districts. / CNN Country music's political chasm widens as
The UN warns of food shortages and price increases from Russia's continued assault on Ukraine's grain exports. / Reuters Alabama's new congressional map, now approved by the governor, flouts a court order requiring two majority-Black districts. / CNN Country music's political chasm widens as
A federal judge rules Florida has been unlawfully institutionalizing disabled children who should have been eligible for state-provided home care. / The Washington Post Videos of school board incidents reveal patterns around how the tension escalates, and that instigators are nearly always white. / ProPublica More than 9,000 authors sign an
A federal judge rules Florida has been unlawfully institutionalizing disabled children who should have been eligible for state-provided home care. / The Washington Post Videos of school board incidents reveal patterns around how the tension escalates, and that instigators are nearly always white. / ProPublica More than 9,000 authors sign an
New York City plans to distribute fliers at the United States' southern border telling migrants it has run out of room. / BBC News For many seniors in Europe, heat has become the new Covid. / The New York Times Unrelated: Photographs of skyscrapers on the Spanish Mediterranean coast. / designboom A
New York City plans to distribute fliers at the United States' southern border telling migrants it has run out of room. / BBC News For many seniors in Europe, heat has become the new Covid. / The New York Times Unrelated: Photographs of skyscrapers on the Spanish Mediterranean coast. / designboom A
Phoenix breaks a 1974 heat record with 19 days of temperatures at 110 degrees or higher. / The Guardian Sophie Benson: What do global sustainability summits actually achieve? "Excitement, cynicism, and hope." / Dazed How doctors are preparing for a future of extreme heat: charity clinics, (lifesaving) body bags, "
Phoenix breaks a 1974 heat record with 19 days of temperatures at 110 degrees or higher. / The Guardian Sophie Benson: What do global sustainability summits actually achieve? "Excitement, cynicism, and hope." / Dazed How doctors are preparing for a future of extreme heat: charity clinics, (lifesaving) body bags, "
Jane Birkin's name was misspelled in yesterday's newsletter. Nous sommes désolés pour l'erreur. 340,000 UPS workers are poised to start the largest single-employer strike in United States history over protections from extreme heat. / LAist Pennsylvania locomotive manufacturing workers go on strike for greener
Jane Birkin's name was misspelled in yesterday's newsletter. Nous sommes désolés pour l'erreur. 340,000 UPS workers are poised to start the largest single-employer strike in United States history over protections from extreme heat. / LAist Pennsylvania train manufacturing workers go on strike for greener
Russia says there's no connection between an attack on the bridge to Crimea and its about-face on allowing Ukraine to ship grain out of the Black Sea. / BBC News "The total number of Americans dying each day—from any cause—is no longer historically abnormal." Covid
Russia says there's no connection between an attack on the bridge to Crimea and its about-face on allowing Ukraine to ship grain out of the Black Sea. / BBC News "The total number of Americans dying each day—from any cause—is no longer historically abnormal." Covid
How is Tommy Tuberville single-handedly able to shut down confirmations for military leaders? Because of the Senate's arcane unanimous consent rules. / NPR Three artists are suing Shein, accusing the fast-fashion brand of using AI to spot trendy designs and then steal them. / Hyperallergic From lawsuits to sabotage, a
How is Tommy Tuberville single-handedly able to shut down confirmations for military leaders? Because of the Senate's arcane unanimous consent rules. / NPR Three artists are suing Shein, accusing the fast-fashion brand of using AI to spot trendy designs and then steal them. / Hyperallergic From lawsuits to sabotage, a
The heat dome over the Southwest US is expected to continue through the weekend, with record-setting temperatures expected on Sunday. / SFGATE Even in Laredo, where locals are used to hot weather, heat-related deaths are climbing. / The New York Times Heat off the Florida coast reaches unprecedented highs, due to a
The heat dome over the Southwest US is expected to continue through the weekend, with record-setting temperatures expected on Sunday. / SFGATE Even in Laredo, where locals are used to hot weather, heat-related deaths are climbing. / The New York Times Heat off the Florida coast reaches unprecedented highs, due to a
Nearly 90 million Americans face heat alerts this week while Republican Senators complain about climate measures in President Biden's proposed 2024 budget. / The Guardian Scientists at Purdue create a white paint that, when applied, can reduce the surface temperature on a roof and cool the building beneath it.
Nearly 90 million Americans face heat alerts while Republican Senators complain about climate measures in President Biden's proposed 2024 budget. / The Guardian Scientists at Purdue create a white paint that can reduce the surface temperature on a roof and cool the building beneath it. / The New York Times
Inflation continues to cool in the United States, where consumer prices rose three percent in the year through June. / The Hill A new report says Europe may see heat-related deaths increase to more than 100,000 per summer by midcentury. / Nature medicine Amazon delivery drivers go on strike in Southern
Inflation continues to cool in the United States, where consumer prices rose three percent in the year through June. / The Hill A new report says Europe may see heat-related deaths increase to more than 100,000 per summer by midcentury. / Nature Amazon delivery drivers go on strike in Southern California
The "Achilles heel of Finnish defense" against Russia is a demilitarized group of islands in the Baltic Sea. / Spiegel Related: Why NATO is growing, but not to include Ukraine (for now). / Wake Up to Politics A study finds drinking water from nearly half of US faucets likely contains
The "Achilles heel of Finnish defense" against Russia is a demilitarized group of islands in the Baltic Sea. / Der Spiegel Related: Why NATO is growing, but not to include Ukraine (for the moment). / Wake Up to Politics A study finds drinking water from nearly half of faucets in
Abortion bans in the US are expected to break an already strained foster system, with up to 11% more children in Texas's foster care by 2040. / Vox Fossil records provide evidence that Earth is now at its hottest—not just in recorded history, but in the past 100,
Abortion bans in the US are expected to break an already strained foster system, with up to 11% more children in Texas's foster care by 2040. / Vox Fossil records provide evidence that Earth is now at its hottest—not just in recorded history, but in the past 100,
"The larger threat to Putin's regime may not have been Prigozhin's mutiny itself but the reaction of the military and the security services to that mutiny." / Foreign Affairs Russians rely on Telegram for uncensored news about the war in Ukraine—yet without platform oversight,
"The larger threat to Putin's regime may not have been Prigozhin's mutiny itself but the reaction of the military and the security services to that mutiny." / Foreign Affairs Russians rely on Telegram for uncensored news about the war in Ukraine—yet without platform oversight,
Janet Yellen begins her first day of meetings in China by criticizing the country's "unfair economic practices." / Reuters Syracuse, NY, is about to become an economic test of whether aggressive policies—and $100 billion—can rebuild the United States' manufacturing prowess. / MIT Technology Review The
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen starts her first day of meetings in China by criticizing the country's "unfair economic practices." / Reuters Syracuse, NY, is about to become an economic test of whether aggressive policies—and $100 billion—can rebuild the United States' manufacturing prowess. / MIT Technology
According to officials, the US intends to supply Ukraine with cluster munitions, which can endanger civilians by spreading unexploded bomblets. / NPR Russian jets harassed US military drones that were carrying out an operation against the Islamic State in Syria. / CBS News How grassroots movements near and (often very) far have
According to officials, the US intends to supply Ukraine with cluster munitions, which can endanger civilians by spreading unexploded bomblets. / NPR Russian jets harassed US military drones that were carrying out an operation against the Islamic State in Syria. / CBS News How grassroots movements near and (often very) far have
A new database finds more than 1,500 lobbyists working on behalf of fossil-fuel companies while also representing environmental groups. / The Guardian The Earth experienced the hottest day ever recorded on July 3. / Quartz July has already seen 11 mass shootings in the United States. / NPR Israel ends its attack
A new database finds more than 1,500 lobbyists working on behalf of fossil-fuel companies while also representing environmental groups. / The Guardian The Earth experienced the hottest day ever recorded on July 3. / Quartz July has already seen 11 mass shootings in the United States. / NPR Israel ends its attack
We're headed off for the holiday weekend and will see you on Wednesday. A detailed explanation and history of the Supreme Court's big decision on affirmative action in colleges. / Vox From Ketanji Brown Jackson's dissent: "Deeming race irrelevant in law does not make
We're headed out for the holiday weekend and will see you on Wednesday. A detailed explanation and history of the Supreme Court's big decision on affirmative action in colleges. / Vox From Ketanji Brown Jackson's dissent: "Deeming race irrelevant in law does not make
Riots spread across France overnight in response to the shooting of a teenager by police. / Reuters Wagner mercenaries apparently will no longer fight in Ukraine after the mercenary group's leader refuses to sign contracts with the Kremlin. / The Guardian Remember that recent Chinese spy balloon? The spying tech
Riots spread across France overnight in response to the shooting of a teenager by police. / Reuters Wagner mercenaries apparently will no longer fight in Ukraine after the mercenary group's leader refuses to sign contracts with the Kremlin. / The Guardian Remember that Chinese spy balloon? The spying tech on-board
The Supreme Court dismantles a legal theory that would have upended how elections are conducted—and sets up a power grab down the line. / Slate Amia Srinivasan: To hear that your views aren't worth engaging with isn't trampling on your free speech; it might simply be
The Supreme Court dismantles a legal theory that would have upended how elections are conducted—and sets up a power grab down the line. / Slate Amia Srinivasan: To hear that your views aren't worth engaging with isn't trampling on your free speech; it might simply be
Rising corporate profits account for almost half the increase in Europe's inflation over the past two years. / IMF Two-thirds of North America may suffer blackouts this summer due to extreme heat. / CNN Related: The MittiCool is a small refrigerator that works without electricity or greenhouse gas refrigerants. / The
Rising corporate profits account for almost half the increase in Europe's inflation over the past two years. / IMF Two-thirds of North America may suffer blackouts this summer due to extreme heat. / CNN Related: The MittiCool is a small refrigerator that works without electricity or greenhouse gas refrigerants. / The
Millions of Muslims arrive in Mecca to start the Hajj pilgrimage, expected to be the largest in the event's history. / Al Jazeera Regarding the weekend's events in Russia: "This was a preview of how the war in Ukraine ends." / Thinking about… A list of
Millions of Muslims arrive in Mecca to start the Hajj pilgrimage, expected to be the largest in the event's history. / Al Jazeera Regarding the weekend's events in Russia: "This was a preview of how the war in Ukraine ends." / Thinking about… A list of
The head of the Wagner Group has mounted an insurgency against Russia; troops captured a southern city overnight and are now headed to Moscow. / Reuters Is it a coup? Not yet, as there has been no attempt to seize power from the government. / BBC News "If EVs are the
The head of the Wagner Group has mounted an insurgency against Russia; troops captured a southern city overnight and are now headed to Moscow. / Reuters Is it a coup? Not yet, as there has been no attempt to seize power from the government. / BBC News "If EVs are the
In 2022, 34,600 migrants had crossed the Mediterranean by the end of May. In the first five months of 2023, 65,000 made the journey. / The Economist Related: "How Deterrence Policies Create Border Chaos." / The Atlantic The search for the privately owned submersible exploring the Titanic ends
In 2022, 34,600 migrants crossed the Mediterranean by the end of May. In the first five months of 2023, 65,000 made the journey. / The Economist The search for the privately owned submersible exploring the Titanic ends after evidence is found of an implosion with no survivors. / The Associated
As concerns mount over Alito's vacations with a billionaire who later had cases before the Supreme Court, the justice claims innocence in an op-ed. / ProPublica, the Wall Street Journal Even as many Americans may want to believe political norms still exist, their political parties simply don't
As concerns mount over Alito's vacations with a billionaire who later had cases before the Supreme Court, the justice claims innocence in an op-ed. / ProPublica, the Wall Street Journal Even as many Americans may want to believe political norms still exist, their political parties simply don't
During a fundraiser, President Joe Biden equates Xi Jinping, his Chinese counterpart, to a "dictator." / The Economist China introduces a $72.3 billion package of tax breaks over four years for electric vehicles. / Reuters See also: An account of recovering and restoring missing Orient Express train cars. / Messy
During a fundraiser, President Joe Biden equates Xi Jinping, his Chinese counterpart, to a "dictator." / The Economist China introduces a $72.3 billion package of tax breaks over four years for electric vehicles. / Reuters See also: An account of recovering and restoring missing Orient Express train cars. / Messy
Hunter Biden will plead guilty to failure to pay taxes in 2017 and 2018 and enters an agreement over a firearm charge, ending a lengthy criminal investigation. / The Washington Post "The red lines are long gone for Putin." In 2020, Russia attempted to assassinate a CIA informant on
Hunter Biden will plead guilty to failure to pay taxes in 2017 and 2018 and enters an agreement over a firearm charge, ending a lengthy criminal investigation. / The Washington Post "The red lines are long gone for Putin." In 2020, Russia attempted to assassinate a CIA informant on
Happy Saturday, everyone! We'll be off on Monday for Juneteenth, and will see you again on Tuesday. Putin says Russia has begun moving tactical nuclear weapons into Belarus for use "in case there is a danger to Russian statehood." / BBC News In a horrific attack on
Happy Saturday, everyone! We'll be off on Monday for Juneteenth, and will see you again on Tuesday. Putin says Russia has begun moving tactical nuclear weapons into Belarus for use "in case there is a danger to Russian statehood." / BBC News In a horrific attack on
Following a two-year probe, the Justice Dept. finds Minneapolis police have systematically discriminated against Black and Native American people. / AP The personal information of more than 6.5 million residents of Louisiana and Oregon has been exposed in a massive cyberattack targeting government agencies. / Ars Technica "The government believes
Following a two-year probe, the Justice Dept. finds Minneapolis police have systematically discriminated against Black and Native American people. / AP The personal information of more than 6.5 million residents of Louisiana and Oregon has been exposed in a massive cyberattack targeting government agencies. / Ars Technica "The government believes
An investigation finds over half of the pills at Mexican pharmacies are counterfeit—meth is sold as Adderall, and many painkillers test positive for fentanyl. / Los Angeles Times A group that counts most House GOP among its members proposes cutting Social Security by raising the retirement age—and turning Medicare
An investigation finds over half of the pills at Mexican pharmacies are counterfeit—meth is sold as Adderall, and many painkillers test positive for fentanyl. / Los Angeles Times A group that counts most House GOP among its members proposes cutting Social Security by raising the retirement age—and turning Medicare
The wars in Ukraine and Sudan have resulted in the largest annual increase in displaced people in decades. / The Guardian What happens now that the Supreme Court has upheld the Voting Rights Act? Election maps in the Deep South will likely be redrawn, which could flip House seats. / ProPublica Lydia
The wars in Ukraine and Sudan have resulted in the largest annual increase in displaced people in decades. / The Guardian What happens now that the Supreme Court has upheld the Voting Rights Act? Election maps in the Deep South will likely be redrawn, which could flip House seats. / ProPublica Lydia
Investigating the effects of noise on health, reporters measure sounds in rural Mississippi, New York City, and suburban California and New Jersey. / The New York Times A real-time view of the subreddits now dark or read-only in protest of Reddit's decision to implement new API charges that would
Investigating the effects of noise on health, reporters measure sounds in rural Mississippi, New York City, and suburban California and New Jersey. / The New York Times A real-time view of the subreddits now dark or read-only in protest of Reddit's decision to implement new API charges that would
Among the classified material Trump allegedly sought to hide: information on "potential vulnerabilities" for attacks on the US and allies. / The New Republic "Making a public case is part of what's going on here." Why the Trump indictment is unavoidably political. / The New York
Among the classified material Trump allegedly sought to hide: information on "potential vulnerabilities" for attacks on the US and allies. / The New Republic "Making a public case is part of what's going on here." Why the Trump indictment is unavoidably political. / The New York
The Trump indictment has been unsealed, revealing 37 felony counts, including violating the Espionage Act and attempting to obstruct the investigation. / POLITICO Related: The indictment document, annotated. / The New York Times The Trump-appointed judge assigned to the case ruled last year to grant Trump's request for a special
The Trump indictment has been unsealed, revealing 37 felony counts, including violating the Espionage Act and attempting to obstruct the investigation. / POLITICO Related: The indictment document, annotated. / The New York Times The Trump-appointed judge assigned to the case ruled last year to grant Trump's request for a special
The Justice Dept. plans to charge Trump over mishandling of classified documents—and possibly in South Florida, which could curtail potential legal challenges. / The Washington Post Parroting claims of voter fraud, right-wing groups in the US have targeted a system that actually helps identify cross-state voter fraud. / NPR Facing a
The Justice Dept. plans to charge Trump over mishandling of classified documents—and possibly in South Florida, which could curtail potential legal challenges. / The Washington Post Parroting claims of voter fraud, right-wing groups in the US have targeted a system that actually helps identify cross-state voter fraud. / NPR Facing a
Smoke from Canadian wildfires causes New York to become the world's most polluted city. / Quartz An investigation finds Texas companies releasing 1.1 billion pounds of pollution beyond their permit limits since 2002. / Grist See also: "Mussel poop may help clear oceans of microplastics." / Science A
Smoke from Canadian wildfires causes New York to become the world's most polluted city. / Quartz An investigation finds Texas companies releasing 1.1 billion pounds of pollution beyond their permit limits since 2002. / Grist See also: "Mussel poop may help clear oceans of microplastics." / Science A
A dam in a Russian-controlled part of southern Ukraine gets blown up, unleashing torrents of water across the region. / The Economist A schedule for when European airports and trains are set to strike this summer. / The Points Guy French public television replaces traditional weathercasts with weather-and-climate reports. / Covering Climate Now
A dam in a Russian-controlled part of Ukraine gets blown up, unleashing torrents of water across the region. / The Economist A schedule for when European airports and trains are set to strike this summer. / The Points Guy French public television replaces traditional weather forecasts with weather-and-climate reports. / Covering Climate Now
The NYPD has been experimenting with letting neighborhoods—not police—respond to low-level street crime. / The New York Times Sulking is unique in its role as an indirect communication device, the purpose of which is either a plea for help or a tool of manipulation. / Aeon An illustrated guide to
The NYPD has been experimenting with letting neighborhoods—not police—respond to low-level street crime. / The New York Times Sulking is unique in its role as an indirect communication device, the purpose of which is either a plea for help or a tool of manipulation. / Aeon An illustrated guide to
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Debt-ceiling talks are causing a pileup of DC lawmakers' priorities, including spending bills. / Politico Reviewing the week in Washington policy news. / Wake Up to Politics See also: "A Day in the Life of a Woke Third-Grade Teacher, as Imagined by a Far-Right Politician." / McSweeney's Internet
Debt-ceiling talks are causing a pileup of DC lawmakers' other priorities, including spending bills. / Politico Reviewing the week in other Washington policy news. / Wake Up to Politics See also: "A Day in the Life of a Woke Third-Grade Teacher, as Imagined by a Far-Right Politician." / McSweeney'
Ukraine says it shot down 10 missiles and more than 20 drones launched by Russia at Kyiv. / Reuters An investigation finds previously unreported attacks that killed or wounded hundreds of Cambodian civilians during Henry Kissinger's reign in the White House. / The Intercept See also: "Henry Kissinger at
Ukraine says it shot down 10 missiles and more than 20 drones launched by Russia at Kyiv. / Reuters An investigation finds previously unreported attacks that killed or wounded hundreds of Cambodian civilians during Henry Kissinger's reign in the White House. / The Intercept See also: "Henry Kissinger at
Florida Governor Ron Desantis's presidential campaign does not get a smooth launch on Elon Musk's Twitter. / The New York Times Even without any glitches, "launching the campaign on a Twitter Space would have been bizarre." / Vox Somes notes on how ProPublica broke the Clarence
Florida Governor Ron Desantis's presidential campaign does not get a smooth launch on Elon Musk's Twitter. / The New York Times Even without any glitches, "launching the campaign on a Twitter Space would have been bizarre." / Vox Some notes on how ProPublica broke the Clarence
Russia's prime minister says relations with China are "at an unprecedented high level." / Reuters Since the Covid-19 pandemic, no American governors have visited China, though four have visited Taiwan since the start of last year. / Politico An investigation finds Chevron's efforts to offset its
Russia's prime minister says relations with China are "at an unprecedented high level." / Reuters Since the pandemic, no American governors have visited China, though four have visited Taiwan since the start of last year. / Politico An investigation finds Chevron's efforts to offset its enormous
An astonishing story of Afghans seeking refuge in the United States after crossing the Darién Gap. / The New York Times A Ukranian refugee moves back to Kyiv because living in Ohio is worse. / Talking Points Memo A fake image showing an explosion near the Pentagon goes viral on Twitter after
An astonishing story of Afghans seeking refuge in the United States after crossing the Darién Gap. / The New York Times A Ukranian refugee moves back to Kyiv because living in Ohio is worse. / Talking Points Memo A fake image showing an explosion near the Pentagon goes viral on Twitter after
President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy return to negotiations over a debt ceiling deal. / Wake Up to Politics China calls the recent G7 summit, hosted by Japan, an "anti-China workshop." / Al Jazeera "The infantry hasn't changed since the First World War." Luke Mogelson
President Biden and House Speaker McCarthy return to negotiations over a debt ceiling deal. / Wake Up to Politics China calls the recent G7 summit, hosted by Japan, an "anti-China workshop." / Al Jazeera "The infantry hasn't changed since the First World War." Luke Mogelson joins
Visualizing all the ways your personal information has been leaked in major data breaches. / ABC It's not just emails and passwords: By collecting trace amounts of human DNA lingering in the air, water—anywhere, really—your privacy could be compromised. / The New York Times In a test to
Visualizing all the ways your personal information has been leaked in major data breaches. / ABC It's not just emails and passwords: By collecting trace amounts of human DNA lingering in the air, water—anywhere, really—your privacy could be compromised. / The New York Times In a test to
Our apologies for yesterday's interruption in service. The day job couldn't be tamed. Fair use and transformative works just took a big hit with the Supreme Court's ruling against Warhol, who used photographer Lynn Goldsmith's work in a set of screen prints.
Our apologies for yesterday's interruption in service. The day job couldn't be tamed. Fair use and transformative works just took a big hit with the Supreme Court's ruling against Warhol, who used photographer Lynn Goldsmith's work in a set of screen prints.
In the next five years, global temperatures are expected to rise—temporarily, but more frequently—above the critical 1.5-degree threshold. / The Guardian As flooding increases in Jakarta, where 40% of the city lies below sea level—Indonesia's president plans to relocate the capital to Borneo, 800 miles
In the next five years, global temperatures are expected to rise—temporarily, but more frequently—above the critical 1.5-degree threshold. / The Guardian As flooding increases in Jakarta, where 40% of the city lies below sea level—Indonesia's president plans to relocate the capital to Borneo, 800 miles
In Florida, DeSantis signs a series of bills to limit diversity initiatives in education beyond what's required by accreditors. / Miami Herald Related: Texas Gov. Abbott tells state agencies and public universities it's illegal to consider diversity when making hiring decisions. / The Texas Tribune See also: What
In Florida, DeSantis signs a series of bills to limit diversity initiatives in education beyond what's required by accreditors. / Miami Herald Related: Texas Gov. Abbott tells state agencies and public universities it's illegal to consider diversity when making hiring decisions. / The Texas Tribune See also: What
Voters in Thailand overwhelmingly cast ballots in favor of opposition parties that have pledged to curtail the military. / Reuters The World Health Organization ends the global health emergency for mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. / STAT Responses from residents of Kibera, Africa's largest urban slum, to news of the
Voters in Thailand overwhelmingly cast ballots in favor of opposition parties that want to curtail the military. / Reuters The World Health Organization ends the global health emergency for mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. / STAT Responses from residents of Kibera, Africa's largest urban slum, to the end of the
A year after the invasion, Ukraine is in full de-Russification mode, erasing remnants of Russia, as well as the Russian language, from public life. / The Washington Post Palantir says it's seeing "unprecedented" demand for its AI platform for militaries. / Fortune "Face to face with a
A year after the invasion, Ukraine is in full de-Russification mode, erasing remnants of Russia, as well as the Russian language, from public life. / The Washington Post Palantir says it's seeing "unprecedented" demand for its AI platform for militaries. / Fortune "Face to face with a
Sudan's warring factions fail to agree to a ceasefire and continue fighting, despite vowing to protect civilians. / Reuters Alex de Waal: The fighting in Khartoum is a war of choice; allowing it to happen was a failure of international diplomacy. / The London Review of Books At campaign rallies
Sudan's warring factions fail to agree to a ceasefire and continue fighting, despite vowing to protect civilians. / Reuters Alex de Waal: The fighting in Khartoum is a war of choice; allowing it to happen was a failure of international diplomacy. / The London Review of Books At campaign rallies
Climate disasters and war displaced a record 71.1 million people worldwide last year. / Reuters Title 42 expires tonight, ending a rule that made it easier for the US to send migrants back to Mexico. Officials believe attempted border crossings are poised to skyrocket. / BBC News Related: Anticipating an influx
Climate disasters and war displaced a record 71.1 million people worldwide last year. / Reuters Title 42 expires tonight, ending a rule that made it easier for the US to send migrants back to Mexico. Officials believe attempted border crossings are poised to skyrocket. / BBC News Related: Anticipating an influx
A federal jury finds former President Donald Trump liable for battery and defamation in a lawsuit brought by writer E. Jean Carroll. / NPR The monetary outcome of the trial is "a minor facet of her victory." / Slate Alex Tabarrok: The FDA shows once again it doesn't
A federal jury finds former President Donald Trump liable for battery and defamation in a lawsuit brought by writer E. Jean Carroll. / NPR The monetary outcome of the trial is only "a minor facet of her victory." / Slate Alex Tabarrok: The Food and Drug Administration shows once again
The Biden administration plans to introduce regulations requiring airlines compensate passengers for cancellations and delays. / Associated Press "There are no fixed borders between a pandemic...and the ensuing endemic phase." Does the end of Covid emergency declarations mean the pandemic is over? / STAT See also: "Any headline
The Biden administration plans to introduce regulations requiring airlines compensate passengers for cancellations and delays. / Associated Press "There are no fixed borders between a pandemic...and the ensuing endemic phase." Does the end of Covid emergency declarations mean the pandemic is over? / STAT See also: "Any headline
Russia launches a new wave of attacks on Ukrainian cities, just one day ahead of Moscow's planned Victory Day celebrations. / CNBC Ukrainian prosecutors have opened more than 80,000 war-crimes cases since the invasion. / The Economist Nobody wants a Trump-Biden rematch in 2024, yet each man's
Russia launches a new wave of attacks on Ukrainian cities, just one day ahead of Moscow's planned Victory Day celebrations. / CNBC Ukrainian prosecutors have opened more than 80,000 war-crimes cases since the invasion. / The Economist Nobody wants a Biden-Trump rematch in 2024, yet each man's
American employers added 253,000 jobs in April, exceeding forecasts. / The Economist Bernie Sanders doesn't know the difference between equality and equity—and apparently neither does anybody else. / Vox Unrelated: Adidas faces a $772 million if it can't sell its surplus of shoes designed by Ye.
American employers added 253,000 jobs in April, exceeding forecasts. / The Economist Bernie Sanders doesn't know the difference between equality and equity—and apparently neither does anybody else. / Vox Unrelated: Adidas faces a $772 million loss if it can't sell its surplus of shoes designed by
Today, the World Health Organization officially ended its Covid-19 Health Emergency—but also reasserted that the pandemic is not over. / STAT Russia sends drone attacks to Kyiv, and now claims the US was behind the drone that exploded above the Kremlin. / Reuters The leader of the Wagner Group threatens to
Today, the World Health Organization officially ended its Covid-19 Health Emergency—but also reasserted that the pandemic is not over. / STAT Russia sends drone attacks to Kyiv, and now claims the US was behind the drone that exploded above the Kremlin. / Reuters The leader of the Wagner Group threatens to
Shell is accused of a "profiteering bonanza" after posting record first-quarter profits of more than $9.6 billion. / The Guardian France's finance minister explains to his critics why he's published five novels in the last four years: "It's a need."
Shell is accused of a "profiteering bonanza" after posting record first-quarter profits of more than $9.6 billion. / The Guardian France's finance minister explains to his critics why he's published five novels in the last four years: "It's a need."
Russia accuses Ukraine of sending a drone that exploded over the Kremlin—a claim Ukraine says is an excuse for "a large-scale terrorist attack." / Al Jazeera At this point, geopolitics have wholly infected space exploration—but maybe nations can work together to start picking up their space trash.
Russia accuses Ukraine of sending a drone that exploded over the Kremlin—a claim Ukraine says is an excuse for "a large-scale terrorist attack." / Al Jazeera At this point, geopolitics have wholly infected space exploration—but maybe nations can work together to start picking up their space trash.
China is increasingly barring people, including foreign executives, from leaving the country. / The Guardian Young Chinese people have been migrating to Sweden in record numbers, only to discover it's less than ideal. / Sixth Tone A Palestinian militant dies in an Israeli jail after almost three months of hunger
China is increasingly barring people, including foreign executives, from leaving the country. / The Guardian Young Chinese people have been migrating to Sweden in record numbers, only to discover it's less than ideal. / Sixth Tone A Palestinian militant dies in an Israeli jail after three months of hunger strike—
For May Day, workers demonstrate in cities across Asia and Europe—including in France, where unions continue rallying against increasing the retirement age. / Associated Press Actually related: Searching for the best croissant in Paris. / YouTube "You have a completely different experience of transparency when you are the subject."
For May Day, workers demonstrate in cities across Asia and Europe—including in France, where unions continue rallying against increasing the retirement age. / Associated Press Actually related: Searching for the best croissant in Paris. / YouTube "You have a completely different experience of transparency when you are the subject."
Florida changes its laws to allow DeSantis to run for president without first resigning as governor. / POLITICO Brazil's da Silva grants federal recognition of Indigenous lands, though progress may be slow with Bolsonaro allies controlling most of the Amazon states. / Associated Press Putin signs a decree allowing those
Florida changes its laws to allow DeSantis to run for president without first resigning as governor. / POLITICO Brazil's da Silva grants federal recognition of Indigenous lands, though progress may be slow with Bolsonaro allies controlling most of the Amazon states. / Associated Press Putin signs a decree allowing those
Diplomats in Sudan worry the longer the conflict rages, the more room for malign outside actors to fan the flames. / The Guardian An annual survey finds South Africans fed up with their prospects and their democracy. / The Conversation A consortium of scientific and public health experts chronicle the failures of
Diplomats in Sudan worry the longer the conflict rages, the more room for malign outside actors to fan the flames. / The Guardian An annual survey finds South Africans fed up with their prospects and their democracy. / The Conversation A consortium of scientific and public health experts chronicle the failures of
The UK blocks Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, citing concerns it would harm competition in cloud gaming. / Reuters How British American Tobacco circumvented sanctions in order to sell cigarettes to North Korea—a scheme that ended in a $635 million fine. / Financial Times Why the demise
The UK blocks Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, citing concerns it would harm competition in cloud gaming. / Reuters How British American Tobacco circumvented sanctions in order to sell cigarettes to North Korea—a scheme that ended in a $635 million fine. / Financial Times Why the demise
President Joe Biden wants four more years in office "to finish the job." Here's a report card on his key pledges. / The Economist, Politico Some 14% of Biden's 2020 voters now prefer to support Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.. / Wake Up to Politics This month,
President Joe Biden wants four more years in office "to finish the job." Here's a report card on some key pledges. / The Economist, Politico Some 14% of Biden's 2020 voters now prefer to support Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. / Wake Up to Politics This month,
China's ambassador to France questions the sovereignty of former Soviet states, a comment China afterward deemed "totally unacceptable." / The Guardian North Dakota becomes the latest state to ban abortion, with exceptions for rape, incest, and medical emergencies in the first six weeks. / Associated Press An analysis
China's ambassador to France questions the sovereignty of former Soviet states, a comment China afterward deemed "totally unacceptable." / The Guardian North Dakota becomes the latest state to ban abortion, with exceptions for rape, incest, and medical emergencies in the first six weeks. / Associated Press An analysis
Long lines of United Nations vehicles and buses are seen leaving Sudan's Khartoum as thousands flee the fighting. / BBC News "The night before street warfare broke out, I was at a cultural center listening to a panel of feminist speakers." / 1843 Magazine Russian mercenaries The Wagner
Long lines of United Nations vehicles and buses are seen leaving Sudan's Khartoum as thousands flee the fighting. / BBC News "The night before street warfare broke out, I was at a cultural center listening to a panel of feminist speakers." / 1843 Magazine Russian mercenaries The Wagner
The United States Supreme Court maintains access to the abortion pill mifepristone pending litigation. / Politico In the US, the risk of death at every age is now higher for boys and men than for girls and women. / The Washington Post Derek Thompson: The average American my age is roughly six
The United States Supreme Court maintains access to the abortion pill mifepristone pending litigation. / Politico In the US, the risk of death at every age is now higher for boys and men than for girls and women. / The Washington Post Derek Thompson: The average American my age is roughly six
In his first visit to Kyiv since the invasion, NATO's chief states his support for Ukraine's membership—though there's no clear roadmap for when it might happen. / CNN A Russian warplane accidentally bombed Belgorod, a Russian city 25 miles from the Ukrainian border. / BBC
In his first visit to Kyiv since the invasion, NATO's chief states his support for Ukraine's membership—though there's no clear roadmap for when it might happen. / CNN A Russian warplane accidentally bombed Belgorod, a Russian city 25 miles from the Ukrainian border. / BBC
In the United States, people ages 65 and older and those who are immunocompromised can receive an additional dose of Covid-19 vaccine this spring. / STAT A new low-cost Covid vaccine that doesn't require refrigeration provided immunity in rhesus monkeys for one year. / Stanford Medicine The case for universal
In the United States, people ages 65 and older and those who are immunocompromised can receive an additional dose of Covid-19 vaccine this spring. / STAT A new low-cost Covid vaccine that doesn't require refrigeration provided immunity in rhesus monkeys for one year. / Stanford Medicine The case for universal
An investigation into the "black box" of website content that's been used to train the most popular AI chatbots. / The Washington Post Related: To scrape back money from the AI companies that have scraped its content, Reddit will begin charging companies for API access. / Engadget Multiple
An investigation into the "black box" of website content that's been used to train the most popular AI chatbots. / The Washington Post Related: To scrape back money from the AI companies that have scraped its content, Reddit will begin charging companies for API access. / Engadget Multiple
Despite any doomsday scenarios, there appears to be little urgency in Washington around the debt ceiling. / Wake Up to Politics The United States' astonishing economic record should be reassuring, but for our poisonous politics. / The Economist Related: A leaked cache of emails from 2019 and 2020 shows the anti-trans
No matter any doomsday scenarios discussed, there appears to be little urgency in Washington around the debt ceiling. / Wake Up to Politics The United States' astonishing economic record would be reassuring if not for our poisonous politics. / The Economist Related: A leaked cache of emails from 2019 and 2020
A new study finds that in countries with higher numbers of Black primary care physicians, Black patients have longer life expectancies. / STAT Four people were killed on Saturday night and up to 20 injured in a shooting at a 16th birthday party in Alabama. / AL.com In Kansas City, a
A new study finds that in countries with higher numbers of Black primary care physicians, Black patients have longer life expectancies. / STAT Four people were killed on Saturday night and up to 20 injured in a shooting at a 16th birthday party in Alabama. / AL.com In Kansas City, a
Alito extends the hold to lift mifepristone restrictions as the Supreme Court considers whether to allow a federal judge's decision to take effect. / CNN At a campaign event today in Japan, PM Kishida was evacuated when someone threw an explosive device at him, nine months after former PM
Alito extends the hold to lift mifepristone restrictions as the Supreme Court considers whether to allow a federal judge's decision to take effect. / CNN At a campaign event today in Japan, PM Kishida was evacuated when someone threw an explosive device at him, nine months after former PM
The FBI arrests an Air Force guardsman who was part of a gun-loving Discord group that hosted leaked American intelligence files. / CNN See also: "From Discord to 4chan—the improbable journey of a US intelligence leak." / Bellingcat A tech consultant is arrested in the recent San Francisco murder
The FBI arrests an Air Force guardsman who was part of a gun-loving Discord group that hosted leaked American intelligence files. / CNN See also: "From Discord to 4chan—the improbable journey of a US intelligence leak." / Bellingcat A tech consultant is arrested in the recent San Francisco murder
The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals partially blocks the decision overturning FDA approval of mifepristone—the medication will remain available, but cannot be mailed. / NBC News Arcturus is the new omicron subvariant; while no more deadly than its kin, it may be 1.2 times more infectious than the
The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals partially blocks the decision overturning FDA approval of mifepristone—the medication will remain available, but cannot be mailed. / NBC News Arcturus is the new omicron subvariant; while no more deadly than its kin, it may be 1.2 times more infectious than the
The UN says almost 8,500 civilians have been killed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with many thousands more unverified deaths feared. / Reuters According to the recent leak of US intelligence, a number of countries have military special forces operating inside Ukraine. / BBC News Author Dave Eggers sends
The UN says almost 8,500 civilians have been killed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with many thousands more unverified deaths feared. / Reuters According to the recent leak of US intelligence, a number of countries have military special forces operating inside Ukraine. / BBC News Author Dave Eggers sends
"They are propping up our fossil fuel industry, and that's exactly what we want." An investigation into US bitcoin miners' emissions. / The New York Times Related: Bitcoin mining is expected to cause Texas's electricity costs to increase by nearly 5% this year. / Quartz
"They are propping up our fossil fuel industry, and that's exactly what we want." An investigation into US bitcoin miners' emissions. / The New York Times Related: Bitcoin mining is expected to cause Texas's electricity costs to increase by nearly 5% this year. / Quartz
China begins a third day of military exercises around Taiwan after Taiwan's president returns from meeting with American lawmakers. / NBC News Analysis of those US intelligence documents circulating on social media. / The New York Times Stuart Lau: Beijing wants to use France as a wedge between European and
China begins a third day of military exercises around Taiwan after Taiwan's president returns from meeting with American lawmakers. / NBC News Stuart Lau: Beijing wants to use France as a wedge between European and American strategies on China. / Politico Analysis of the US intelligence documents circulating on social
A grand jury votes to indict Donald Trump, making him the first president in United States history to face criminal charges. / CNN Trump anticipates the media attention may help him win support and sympathy. / Politico Only eight percent of government employees are under the age of 30. / The Washington Post
A grand jury votes to indict Donald Trump, making him the first president in United States history to face criminal charges. / CNN Trump anticipates the media attention may help him win support and sympathy. / Politico Only eight percent of government employees are under the age of 30. / The Washington Post
In an effort to return war powers to Congress, the Senate votes to repeal the 2002 resolution that led to the invasion of Iraq as well as the 1991 Gulf War authorization. / Associated Press How much would it cost to pay the Russian Army to defect? About $20 billion. / Model
In an effort to return war powers to Congress, the Senate votes to repeal the 2002 resolution that led to the invasion of Iraq as well as the 1991 Gulf War authorization. / Associated Press How much would it cost to pay the Russian Army to defect? About $20 billion. / Model
As of yesterday, in the 87 days of 2023, there have been 131 mass shootings in the United States. / Wake Up to Politics Related: 3D animations show the destructive power of an AR-15 on a human body. / The Washington Post President Biden again calls for a ban on assault weapons.
As of yesterday, in the 87 days of 2023, there have been 131 mass shootings in the United States. / Wake Up to Politics Related: 3D animations show the destructive power of an AR-15 on a human body. / The Washington Post President Biden again asks Republicans to ban assault weapons. Evidence
Volodymyr Zelenskyy accuses Russia of "radiation blackmail" by holding a Ukrainian nuclear power station "hostage." / Al Jazeera An official in the Ukrainian frontline city Avdiivka says the town "is being wiped off the face of the Earth" by Russian shelling. / The Guardian Noah Smith:
Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy accuses Russia of "radiation blackmail" for holding a nuclear power station "hostage." / Al Jazeera An official in the Ukrainian frontline city Avdiivka says the town "is being wiped off the face of the Earth" by Russian shelling. / The Guardian
NATO criticizes Vladimir Putin's plan to station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. / Reuters Daniel Ellsberg (famous for leaking the Pentagon Papers): President Biden should fulfill his promise to declare a policy of no first use of nuclear weapons. / The New York Times Thousands of demonstrators hit the streets
NATO criticizes Vladimir Putin's plan to station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. / Reuters Daniel Ellsberg (famous for leaking the Pentagon Papers): President Biden should fulfill his promise to declare a policy of no first use of nuclear weapons. / The New York Times Thousands of demonstrators hit the streets
Canada and the United States agree to new rules governing asylum-seekers crossing their shared border. / NPR Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the two countries must "double down" on their shared values while facing China. / Politico American intelligence officials expect a slew of new assets due to the
Canada and the United States agree to new rules governing asylum-seekers crossing their shared border. / NPR Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the two countries must "double down" on their shared values to face China. / Politico American intelligence officials expect a slew of new assets due to the
AI-generated photos of Donald Trump getting arrested garner five million views, especially after Trump shares one himself. / Quartz A rundown of the ongoing criminal investigations faced by Trump. / NPR Russia gifts fertilizer to Malawi in hope for support of its Ukraine invasion. Meanwhile, Uganda passes one of Africa's
Fake photos of Donald Trump being arrested garner five million views, especially after Trump shares one himself. / Quartz A rundown of the ongoing criminal investigations faced by Trump. / NPR Russia gifts fertilizer to Malawi, hoping for support of its attack on Ukraine. Meanwhile, Uganda passes some of Africa's
Shou Zi Chew, the head of TikTok, faces a grilling before the House of Representatives, amid much talk about a ban. / MarketWatch, Wake Up to Politics Recalling a headline from January: "Air Force general predicts war with China in 2025." / NBC News Employees at 100 different Starbucks stores
Shou Zi Chew, head of TikTok, faces a grilling before the House of Representatives, amid much talk about a ban. / MarketWatch, Wake Up to Politics Recalling a headline from January: "Air Force general predicts war with China in 2025." / NBC News Employees at 100 different Starbucks stores plan
A bipartisan group of lawmakers is seeking to claw back the White House’s war powers. / Wake Up to Politics Related: 2,500 American troops remain in Iraq. / The Economist Texas’s new anti-abortion law is causing doctors and nurses to leave the state—a drain felt most acutely outside
A bipartisan group of lawmakers seeks to claw back the White House's war powers. / Wake Up to Politics Related: 2,500 American troops remain in Iraq. / The Economist Texas's new anti-abortion law is causing doctors and nurses to leave the state—a drain felt most acutely
A United Nations report says the world needs a "quantum leap" in climate ambition to stave off devastating consequences. / Grist A truly eco-friendly golf course in Burkina Faso is played on "browns." / France24 Unrelated/related: A profile of one of America's only airplane repo
A United Nations report says the world needs a "quantum leap" in climate ambition to stave off devastating consequences. / Grist A truly eco-friendly golf course in Burkina Faso is played on "browns." / France24 Unrelated/related: A profile of one of America's only airplane repo
Slovakia says it will send fighter jets to Ukraine in the coming weeks, joining fellow NATO member Poland. / NPR Vladimir Putin visits the Ukrainian port city Mariupol. / BBC News The Federal Reserve and the central banks of Britain, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, and the EU announce co-ordinated measures to "ease
Slovakia saysit will send fighter jets to Ukraine in the coming weeks, joining fellow NATO member Poland. / NPR Vladimir Putin visits the Ukrainian port city Mariupol. / BBC News The Federal Reserve and the central banks of Britain, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, and the EU announce co-ordinated measures to "ease strains
The International Criminal Court issues an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes. / The Associated Press The Ukrainian government says 16,221 children have been forcibly taken to Russia. / BBC News Another spot shaken by the Silicon Valley Bank collapse: construction of affordable housing in California.
The International Criminal Court issues an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes. / The Associated Press The Ukrainian government says 16,221 children have been forcibly taken to Russia. / BBC News Another spot shaken by the Silicon Valley Bank collapse: construction of affordable housing in California.
Tropical cyclone Freddy has now killed more than 400 people in Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar. / Reuters By mid-century, storm damage in the northeastern United States is anticipated to rise 87%. / Bloomberg Some $229 billion has been wiped off the market value of America's banks so far this month.
Tropical cyclone Freddy has now killed more than 400 people in Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar. / Reuters By mid-century, storm damage in the northeastern United States is anticipated to rise 87%. / Bloomberg Some $229 billion has been wiped off the market value of America's banks so far this month.
Ukrainian prosecutors use a chart to track war crimes, mapping hundreds of Russian soldiers all the way up to Vladimir Putin. / The Guardian An argument against Israel's proposed judicial reform and an argument for it. / The Free Press Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is confirmed as US ambassador
Ukrainian prosecutors use a chart to track war crimes, mapping hundreds of Russian soldiers all the way up to Vladimir Putin. / The Guardian An argument against Israel's proposed judicial reform and an argument for it. / The Free Press Eric Garcetti is confirmed as the ambassador to India after
Honduras plans to establish diplomatic ties with China and sever them with Taiwan. / NPR Argentina's annual inflation rate hits 102.5%, its highest level since hyperinflation in the 1990s. / The Buenos Aires Herald A list of banks that have failed since 2000. / FDIC A guide to the issues
Honduras planstoestablish diplomatic ties with China and sever them with Taiwan. / NPR Argentina's annual inflation rate hits 102.5%, its highest level since hyperinflation in the 1990s. / The Buenos Aires Herald A list of banks that have failed since 2000. / FDIC A guide to issues dividing the prospective
Despite pledging no more drilling on federal land, president Joe Biden approves a sprawling oil project in Alaska. / Quartz Elizabeth Warren: Silicon Valley Bank is gone. It's critical that those responsible not be rewarded. / The New York Times Some $25 billion was spent on industrial robots in 2020.
Despite pledging no more drilling on federal land, President Joe Biden approves a sprawling oil project in Alaska. / The Associated Press Elizabeth Warren: Silicon Valley Bank is gone. It's critical that those responsible not be rewarded. / The New York Times The United States' "drunk shopping habit&
Silicon Valley Bank reportedly paid out annual bonuses to eligible US employees on Friday, just hours before the bank was seized by the US government. / Axios Noah Smith: This was a very normal bank run on a very unusual bank. / Noahpinion SVB is the largest lender to fail since Washington
Silicon Valley Bank reportedly paid out annual bonuses to eligible US employees on Friday, just hours before the bank was seized by the US government. / Axios Noah Smith: This was a very normal bank run on a very unusual bank. / Noahpinion SVB is the largest lender to fail since Washington
Saudi Arabia and Iran agree to re-establish diplomatic ties, a move that was facilitated by China. / The New York Times Singapore rates its Covid performance: several big calls right, several big mistakes. / The Straits Times Zeynep Tufekci: Actually, the science is quite clear that Covid masks work. / The New York
Saudi Arabia and Iran agree to re-establish diplomatic ties, a move facilitated by China. / Reuters Singapore rates its Covid performance: several big calls right, several big mistakes. / The Straits Times Zeynep Tufekci: Actually, the science is quite clear that Covid masks work. / The New York Times Congress came together this
Xi Jinping secures a precedent-breaking third term as China's president after his re-appointment is unanimously rubber-stamped. / Reuters A primer on President Xi and how he'll potentially rule China for life. / The Economist Chinese lingerie companies use male models for their sexiest products to avoid disturbing online
Xi Jinping secures a precedent-breaking third term as China's president after his re-appointment is unanimously rubber-stamped. / Reuters A primer on President Xi and how he'll potentially rule China for life. / The Economist Chinese lingerie companies dress male models in their sexiest products to avoid disturbing online
Protesters in Israel began a "day of resistance to dictatorship," following weeks of demonstrations against the government's plans to overhaul the judiciary. / TIME Staff working for a Democratic Senator decide to unionize. / Quartz Among big cities, New York, London, Hong Kong, and Los Angeles have the
Protesters in Israel begin a "day of resistance to dictatorship," following weeks of demonstrations against the government's plans to overhaul the judiciary. / TIME Staff working for a United States Senator decide to unionize. / Quartz A researcher appears to have tracked the location of a former top
Four former bank executives are charged with helping cellist Sergei Roldugin launder funds suspected of belonging to Russian President Vladimir Putin. / BBC News Alice Su: Taiwan's fate ultimately will be decided by the battle-readiness of its people. / The Economist The most polluted places to live in the United
Four former bank executives are charged with helping a cellist launder funds suspected of belonging to Russian President Vladimir Putin. / BBC News Alice Su: Taiwan's fate ultimately will be decided by the battle-readiness of its people. / The Economist The most polluted places to live in the United States:
Ukraine is using the eastern city of Bakhmut as "a kill box" to "grind down" newly mobilized Russian soldiers. / The Week An interview with a Ukrainian colonel touches on the importance of civilians' "wedding drones" early in the war. / War Translated Several hundred
Ukraine is using the eastern city of Bakhmut as "a kill box" to "grind down" newly mobilized Russian soldiers. / The Week An interview with a Ukrainian colonel touches on the importance of civilians' "wedding drones" early in the war. / War Translated Several hundred
Eric Topol: It's an inconvenient truth that Covid-19 is associated with an excess of heart attacks and strokes beyond the first month of infection. / Ground Truths A loss of social capital, as well as opioids, explains rising middle-aged mortality. / The Economist By cutting insulin prices, Eli Lilly avoids
Eric Topol: It's an inconvenient truth that Covid-19 is associated with an excess of heart attacks and strokes beyond the first month of infection. / Ground Truths A loss of social capital, as well as opioids, explains rising middle-aged mortality. / The Economist By cutting insulin prices, Eli Lilly avoids
"Altasia" is a portmanteau referring to Asian countries that could lure manufacturing away from China. / The Economist Hong Kong convicts three organizers of vigils commemorating the Tiananmen Square massacre under its national security law. / The Guardian A longtime Chinese diplomat says the window to stabilize relations between Beijing
"Altasia" is a portmanteau referring to Asian countries that could lure manufacturing away from China. / The Economist Hong Kong convicts three organizers of vigils commemorating the Tiananmen Square massacre under its national security law. / The Guardian A longtime Chinese diplomat says the window to stabilize relations between Beijing
Foreign ministers of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States say Russia's nuclear threats are "unacceptable." / NBC News A cruise ship has become a shelter for more than a thousand Turkish earthquake survivors. / The Washington Post Regarding the recent study that reignited a debate over wearing
Foreign ministers from Australia, India, Japan, and the United States say Russia's nuclear threats are "unacceptable." / NBC News A cruise ship becomes a shelter for more than a thousand Turkish earthquake survivors. / The Washington Post Regarding the recent study that reignited a debate over wearing masks
Protests and strikes in Greece over a railway accident that killed at least 42 people. / CNN Space organizations are considering giving the moon its own time zone. / Sky News Drivers in the United States killed 3,434 people on foot in the first six months of 2022, an 18% increase
Protests and strikes in Greece after a railway accident kills at least 42 people. / CNN The recent train disaster in Ohio represents "the tip of a chemical iceberg that supports many of our lives." / Material World See also: Ohio's archaeological heritage can be traced by finding
China starts a propaganda campaign to rewrite the public's memory of its handling of the pandemic. / The New York Times A study finds people are less likely to wear masks to prevent Covid if they perceive themselves as good-looking. / NPR FBI director Christopher Wray endorses the lab-leak theory.
China starts a propaganda campaign to rewrite the public's memory of its handling of the pandemic. / The New York Times A study finds people are less likely to wear masks to prevent Covid if they perceive themselves as good-looking. / NPR FBI director Christopher Wray endorses the lab-leak theory.
Community leaders in coal country are eager to be the staging ground for dozens of small, "modular" nuclear plants. / The Washington Post Semiconductor manufacturers wanting part of the $40 billion in new federal subsidies need to ensure affordable child care for their workers. / Quartz In Montana, an investigation
Communitiesin coal country are eager to be staging grounds for dozens of small, "modular" nuclear plants. / The Washington Post Semiconductor manufacturers who want part of the $40 billion in new federal subsidies need to ensure affordable child care for their workers. / Quartz In Montana, an investigation finds the
The United States Energy Department concludes—with "low confidence"—that an accidental laboratory leak in China likely caused the coronavirus pandemic. / The Star Tribune National security adviser Jake Sullivan: "There is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question." / CNN
The United States Energy Department concludes—with "low confidence"—that an accidental laboratory leak in China likely caused the coronavirus pandemic. / The Star Tribune National security adviser Jake Sullivan: "There is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question." / CNN
Volodymyr Zelensky says he is open to meeting Xi Jinping to talk through a peace plan released by China on Friday. / BBC News, CNN What the war in Ukraine has done to Europe's economy: an energy crisis, low growth, and stubborn inflation. / The Economist South Korea breaks its
Volodymyr Zelensky says he is open to meeting Xi Jinping to talk through a peace plan released by China on Friday. / BBC News, CNN What the war in Ukraine has done to Europe's economy: an energy crisis, low growth, and stubborn inflation. / The Economist South Korea breaks its
Approximately 200,000 Russian troops and 100,000 Ukrainian troops have been killed or wounded in one year of war. / Grid A tracker shows vast differences in different countries' support for Kyiv this year. / Kiel Institute for the World Economy A "volunteer ecosystem" of foreign visitors—mercenaries,
Approximately 200,000 Russian troops and 100,000 Ukrainian troops have been killed or wounded in one year of war. / Grid A tracker shows vast differences in different countries' support for Kyiv this year. / Kiel Institute for the World Economy A "volunteer ecosystem" of foreign visitors—mercenaries,
Vladimir Putin hails "new frontiers" reached in Russia's relationship with China. / The Straits Times The United States says Beijing is considering supplying "lethal support" to Russia, allegations which China denies. / BBC News Everything you need to know before this weekend's election in
Vladimir Putin hails "new frontiers" achieved in Russia's relationship with China. / The Straits Times The United States says Beijing is considering supplying "lethal support" to Russia, allegations which China denies. / BBC News Everything you need to know before this weekend's general election
One year later, Russia's war seems to be making Ukraine into a more Western country. / The Economist American fossil fuel companies have locked in 45 long-term contracts and contract expansions since the war's start. / The Guardian The White House proposes making migrants ineligible for asylum if
One year later, Russia's war seems to be making Ukraine into a more Western country. / The Economist American fossil fuel companies have locked in 45 long-term contracts and contract expansions since the war's start. / The Guardian The White House proposes making migrants ineligible for asylum if
President Biden makes an unannounced visit to Ukraine before the one year anniversary of Russia's invasion. / The Associated Press Vladimir Putin says Russia will suspend its participation in New START, its last remaining nuclear arms control agreement with the United States. / Reuters Turkey gets hit by two powerful
President Biden makes an unannounced visit to Ukraine prior to the one year anniversary of Russia's invasion. / The Associated Press Vladimir Putin says Russia will suspend its participation in New START, its last remaining nuclear arms control agreement with the United States. / Reuters Turkey gets hit by two
The head of the United Nations calls for "a total rethink" of how the financial system works so it can benefit Africa. / BBC News All the reporting on non-African powers in the Sahel betrays a Western-centric bias in international news coverage. / Africa Is a Country Unrelated/related: "
The United Nations head calls for "a total rethink" of how the financial system works so it can benefit Africa. / BBC News Reporting on non-African powers in the Sahel betrays a Western-centric bias in international news coverage. / Africa Is a Country Unrelated/related: "It Is Journalism'
Sorry for the repeated subject line yesterday. Unfortunately it was human error, not a Bing/Sydney lovebomb mistake! Another billionaire banker goes missing in China, likely disappeared in the government's anti-corruption campaign. / Quartz Portugal ends its "golden visas" scheme for foreign property buyers, to address the
Sorry for the repeated subject line yesterday. Unfortunate human error, not a Bing/Sydney lovebomb mistake! Another billionaire banker goes missing in China, likely disappeared in the government's anti-corruption campaign. / Quartz Portugal ends its "golden visas" scheme for foreign property buyers, to address the country'
Thousands of Chinese retirees take to the streets of Wuhan and Dalian, to protest against cuts to their health benefits. / Al Jazeera French unions stage another day of strikes in protest of a plan to raise the retirement age. / Bloomberg Residents of the Ohio village upended by a train derailment
Thousands of Chinese retirees take to the streets of Wuhan and Dalian, to protest against cuts to their health benefits. / Al Jazeera French unions stage yet another day of strikes in protest of a plan to raise the retirement age. / Bloomberg Residents of the Ohio village upended by a train
Rough estimates suggest between 1 and 1.5 million people have died since China ended "zero Covid." / The New York Times A new understanding of spillover viruses may help scientists prevent the next pandemic. / NPR At least 6,000 children from Ukraine have attended Russian "re-education"
Rough estimates suggest between 1 and 1.5 million people have died since China ended "zero Covid." / The New York Times A new understanding of spillover viruses may help scientists prevent the next pandemic. / NPR At least 6,000 children from Ukraine have been sent to Russian "
The energy crunch caused by the war in Ukraine may have fast-tracked the green transition by five to ten years. / The Economist Africa will be responsible for over 11% of all gas supplies by 2050, double its share now. / Quartz Inflation cools very slightly on an annual basis for a
The energy crunch caused by the war in Ukraine may have fast-tracked the green transition by five to 10 years. / The Economist Africa will be responsible for over 11% of all gas supplies by 2050, double its share now. / Quartz Inflation cooled very slightly on an annual basis for a
Russian soldiers are dying in greater numbers in Ukraine than at any time since the war's first week, according to Ukrainian data. / BBC News In Saudi Arabia, 37% of women have a job or are looking for one. In 2017 it was 17%. / The Economist Why so many
Russian soldiers are dying in greater numbers in Ukraine than at any time since the invasion's first week, according to Ukrainian data. / BBC News In Saudi Arabia, 37% of women have a job or are looking for one. In 2017 it was 17%. / The Economist Why so many
President Biden recently taunted Republicans with a phrase he's been using for 25 years that no one understands. / NPR See also: "Joe Biden Won an Otherwise Very Foolish Week." / Slate Vincent Lloyd recounts teaching an anti-racism seminar that turned into a cult. / Compact An essay from
President Biden recently taunted Republicans with a phrase he's been using for 25 years that no one understands. / NPR See also: "Joe Biden Won an Otherwise Very Foolish Week." / Slate Vincent Lloyd recounts teaching an anti-racism seminar that turned into a cult. / Compact A moving essay
Pressure mounts on the UN to provide support to northwestern Syria, which is yet to receive meaningful aid, largely due to the ongoing war. / The Guardian The Turkish government blocks Twitter, citing technical problems. Typically, "problems" coincide "with periods of intense criticism of the government." / rest
Pressure mounts on the UN to provide support to northwestern Syria, which is yet to receive meaningful aid due to the ongoing war. / NBC News The Turkish government blocks Twitter, citing technical problems. Typically, "problems" coincide with "periods of intense criticism of the government." / rest of
United States officials say China's balloon was part of a surveillance fleet spanning five continents. / Al Jazeera The Australian government says it will remove 900 Chinese-made surveillance cameras from more than 250 of its facilities. / VICE Assessing what's known publicly about the jurors who will face
United States officials say China's balloon was part of a surveillance fleet spanning five continents. / Al Jazeera The Australian government plans to remove 900 Chinese-made surveillance cameras from more than 250 of its facilities. / VICE Assessing what's known publicly about the jurors who will face the
Six takeaways from President Biden's State of the Union address. / Wake Up to Politics A look back at 10 years of the "worst job in politics"—delivering official responses to State of the Union addresses. / Washingtonian Turkey's earthquake death toll passes 11,000. Experts
Six takeaways from President Biden's State of the Union address. / Wake Up to Politics A look back at 10 years of the "worst job in politics"—delivering official responses to State of the Union addresses. / Washingtonian Turkey's earthquake death toll passes 11,000. Experts
President Joe Biden will tout his administration's efforts to make healthcare more affordable as part of tonight's State of the Union address. / Politico Private companies have committed to invest $4.2 billion in Central America as part of an effort to reduce migration by targeting economic
President Joe Biden plans to touthis efforts to make healthcare more affordable as part of tonight's State of the Union address. / Politico Private companies have committed $4.2 billion to Central America as part of an effort to reduce migration by targeting economic development. / Reuters Meanwhile, monthly crossing
Two large earthquakes strike southern Turkey and Syria killing at least 2,000 people. / The Guardian Earthquakes can't be predicted, but machine learning may soon change that. / The Economist Europe begins its ban on Russian diesel fuel and other refined oil products. / PBS NewsHour What is hybrid warfare?
Two large earthquakes strike southern Turkey and Syria killing at least 2,000 people. / The Guardian Earthquakes can't be predicted, but machine learning may soon change that. / The Economist Europe begins its ban on Russian diesel fuel and other refined oil products. / PBS NewsHour What is hybrid warfare?
The Pentagon reports a second suspected Chinese spy balloon flying over Latin America. / The Guardian. Residents in North Carolina are asked not to take potshots at the balloon. / Twitter On the China-Russia border, locals explain why Putin isn't a pariah to them. / The Economist Esteban Almiron (from December)
The Pentagon reports a second suspected Chinese spy balloon flying over Latin America. / The Guardian Residents in North Carolina are asked not to take potshots at the first balloon. / Twitter On the China-Russia border, locals explain why Putin isn't a pariah to them. / The Economist Esteban Almiron (from
The United States unemployment rate is at its lowest level in more than 50 years. / CBS News Lackluster earnings reports from Amazon and Alphabet suggest Big Tech's golden age is fading. / The Washington Post Another way to look at it: "It's fair to say Big
The United States unemployment rate is at its lowest level in more than 50 years. / CBS News Lackluster earnings reports from Amazon and Alphabet suggest Big Tech's golden age is fading. / The Washington Post Or, another way to look at it: "It's fair to say
In Ukraine, Moscow's forces are becoming more capable before a critical—and increasingly uncertain—spring period as the war drags on. / The Guardian Russia's export system has become less reliant on the West's infrastructure, "and has therefore escaped the scope of sanctions."
In Ukraine, Moscow's forces are becoming more capable before a critical spring period as the war drags on. / The Guardian Russia's export system has gotten less reliant on Western infrastructure, "and has therefore escaped the scope of sanctions." / The Economist A mess of global
Oil giants Exxon, Chevron, BP, Shell, and TotalEnergies record a combined $190 billion in profits for 2022. / Quartz See also: Oil companies vs. "oil bunkering" (oil siphoning) in the Niger Delta. / New Lines Magazine Allison Morrow: Chevron's big stock buyback—rewarding wealthy executives and shareholders, rather
Oil giants Exxon, Chevron, BP, Shell, and TotalEnergies record a combined $190 billion in profits for 2022. / Quartz Chevron's big stock buyback—rewarding wealthy executives and shareholders, rather than investing in energy projects—is another way of saying "screw the optics." / CNN After suffering decades of
President Biden tells Congress he's ending the dual states of emergency that were declared to address the pandemic. / Deadline From earlier this month: What Democrats achieved—and didn't—in two years of controlling Congress. / The Guardian The death toll from yesterday's suicide bombing at
President Biden tells Congress he's ending the dual states of emergency that were declared to address the pandemic. / Deadline From earlierthis month: What Democrats achieved—and didn't—in two years of controlling Congress. / The Guardian The death toll from yesterday's suicide bombing at a
A new study finds a simple nasal swab can provide early warning of emerging viruses. / YaleNews Related: Nine diseases "that keep epidemiologists up at night." / Goats and Soda A field guide to House Republicans' various investigations, all set to begin this week. / Politico Residents of suburban Atlanta&
A new study finds a simple nasal swab can provide early warning of emerging viruses. / YaleNews Related: Nine diseases "that keep epidemiologists up at night." / Goats and Soda A field guide to House Republicans' various investigations, all set to begin this week. / Politico Residents of suburban Atlanta&
A night of mostly peaceful protests around the United States after video is released showing the killing of Tyre Nichols. / NPR See also: Video of Tyre Nichols skateboarding, "living his best life." / Twitter A look at what all three branches of government did this week. / Wake Up to
A night of protests around the United States after video is released showing police officers killing Tyre Nichols. / NPR See also: Video of Nichols skateboarding, "living his best life." / Twitter A look at what all three branches of government did this week. / Wake Up to Politics A Republican
Despite growing faster than expected in the fourth quarter, the US economy is under threat from reduced demand by consumers—who are trying to save rather than spend. / Reuters "It's still difficult to fight the feeling that CEOs are willing this recession into existence to create a
Despite growing faster than expected in the fourth quarter, the US economy is under threat from reduced demand by consumers—who are trying to save rather than spend. / Reuters "It's still difficult to fight the feeling that CEOs are willing this recession into existence to create a
The world spent $1.1 trillion transitioning to clean power in 2022, the same as the amount spent producing gas and oil. / Bloomberg Alissa Walker: We can't lithium-mine our way out of the climate crisis. / New York Magazine A new report suggests the United States can have a
The world spent $1.1 trillion transitioning to clean power in 2022, the same as the amount spent producing gas and oil. / Bloomberg The United States' switch to electric vehicles may require three times as much lithium as is currently produced for the entire world. / The Guardian Alissa Walker:
The United States and Germany agree to send tanks to Ukraine's front lines. / Al Jazeera Germany's Leopard 2 tanks: what are they and why does Ukraine want them? Basically, to shift the balance of the war. / The Guardian See also: "If you want a negotiated
The United States and Germany agree to send tanks to Ukraine's front lines. / Al Jazeera Germany's Leopard 2 tanks: What are they and why does Ukraine want them? Basically, to shift the balance of the war. / The Guardian See also: "If you want a negotiated
There have been more mass shootings in the United States in 2023 than there have been days in January. I.e., "tragedy upon tragedy." / Gun Violence Archive, The New York Times A gunman kills seven people in California's second mass shooting in three days. / The Los
There have been more mass shootings in the United States in 2023 than there have been days in January. I.e., "tragedy upon tragedy." / Gun Violence Archive, The New York Times A gunman kills seven people in California's second mass shooting in three days. / The Los
Statistics, anecdotal evidence, and "unconventional indicators" suggest Covid-19 may have swept through large parts of China. / The Economist Helen Branswell: Do you need to keep up with Omicron's ever-expanding offspring? Not really. / STAT Twelve people are responsible for 65% of disinformation about Covid vaccines on social
Statistics, anecdotal evidence, and "unconventional indicators" suggest Covid-19 may have swept through large parts of China. / The Economist Helen Branswell: Do you need to keep up with Omicron's ever-expanding offspring? Not really. / STAT Twelve people are responsible for 65% of disinformation about Covid vaccines on social
Why this debt ceiling crisis is different: After the McCarthy tug of war, right-wing diehards now hold sway in the House and are willing to hold the economy hostage. / NPR Related: The White House's stance of not conceding to Republican holdouts makes a showdown over the debt limit
Why this debt ceiling crisis is different: After the McCarthy tug of war, right-wing diehards now hold sway in the House and are willing to hold the economy hostage. / NPR Related: The White House's stance of not conceding to Republican holdouts makes a showdown over the debt limit
After an eight-month investigation, the US Supreme Court has been unable to identify who leaked its ruling overturning Roe v. Wade. / Reuters It turns out the reason thousands of flights were grounded in the US last week was that FAA contractors mistakenly deleted files from a critical system. / NPR More
After an eight-month investigation, the US Supreme Court has been unable to identify who leaked its ruling overturning Roe v. Wade. / Reuters It turns out the reason thousands of flights were grounded in the US last week was that FAA contractors mistakenly deleted files from a critical system. / NPR More
New Zealand's esteemed prime minister resigns at 42, saying basically she ran out of energy. / Quartz The White House press corps is nearly in open revolt against press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. / Reliable Sources The Treasury Department prepares to use "extraordinary measures" when the United States hits
New Zealand's esteemed prime minister resigns at 42, saying she ran out of energy. / Quartz The White House press corps is nearly in open revolt—over obfuscation, basically—against press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. / Reliable Sources The Treasury Department prepares to use "extraordinary measures" when the United
This week's World Economic Forum in Davos is catnip for online conspiracy theorists. / The Associated Press McKinsey executives at Davos say Gen Z workers are more comfortable than millennials working for corporations. / Business Insider The head of the United Nations accuses fossil fuel companies of refusing to abandon
This week's World Economic Forum in Davos is catnip for online conspiracy theorists. / The Associated Press McKinsey executives at Davos say Gen Z workers are more comfortable than millennials at working for corporations. / Business Insider The head of the United Nations accuses fossil fuel companies of refusing to
China sees its population shrink for the first time in more than 60 years. / Quartz Municipal authorities begin offering financial incentives to couples, but critics say the subsidies are far from sufficient. / The South China Morning Post Restaurant workers in the United States unwittingly pay—via mandatory safety classes—for
China sees its population shrink for the first time in more than 60 years. / CNN Municipal authorities begin offering financial incentives to couples, but critics say the subsidies are far from sufficient. / The South China Morning Post Restaurant workers in the United States unwittingly pay—via mandatory safety classes—for
We're off on Monday and will see you again on Tuesday. A House panel led by Jim Jordan is opening an investigation into the classified documents found at Biden's Delaware home and former Washington office. / NBC News See also: Here's what we know about
We're off on Monday and will see you again on Tuesday. A House panel led by Jim Jordan is opening an investigation into the classified documents found at Biden's Delaware home and former Washington office. / NBC News See also: Here's what we know about
Merrick Garland has appointed a special counsel to review the classified material found at Biden's Delaware home. / NBC News A timeline of the Biden documents case. / The New York Times Before drawing too many parallels between Biden and Trump's document handling, remember the latter resisted official
Merrick Garland has appointed a special counsel to review the classified material found at Biden's Delaware home. / NBC News A timeline of the Biden documents case. / The New York Times Before drawing too many parallels between Biden and Trump's document handling, remember the latter resisted official
Uganda declares the end of its latest Ebola epidemic after four months and dozens of people killed. / Reuters Some trends that will shape urban Africa in 2023: Gentrification, increased focus on emerging cities, confronting flooding. / This Week in Africa Venice's lagoon contains an estimated 2,000 abandoned vessels.
Uganda declares the end of its latest Ebola epidemic after four months and dozens of people killed. / Reuters Some trends that will shape urban Africa in 2023: Gentrification, increased focus on emerging cities, confronting flooding. / This Week in Africa Venice's lagoon contains an estimated 2,000 abandoned vessels.
California storm costs may add up to the country's first billion-dollar disaster of 2023. / yahoo! News The entire community of Planada, a town of about 4,000 people, was evacuated amid rising waters from a breached levee. / The Los Angeles Times Some notes on military-funded E-girl warfare, where
California storm costs may add up to the United States' first billion-dollar disaster of 2023. / Yahoo! News The entire community of Planada, a town of about 4,000 people, was evacuated amid rising waters from a breached levee. / The Los Angeles Times Some notes on military-funded TikTok girl warfare,
Earth's last eight years were the hottest on record. The poles continue to see "worrisome changes as well." / Axios, MarketWatch A study finds the earth's ozone layer on track to repair itself in four decades. / NPR What the House speaker's deal with
Earth's last eight years were the hottest on record. The poles continue to see "worrisome changes as well." / Axios, MarketWatch A study finds the earth's ozone layer on track to repair itself in four decades. / NPR What Kevin McCarthy's deal with ultraconservatives
Thousands of supporters of Jair Bolsonaro mount an insurrection in Brazil. / The Guardian Questions will be asked about whose side the police were on. More obvious, it seems, were Trump's allies. / The Economist, BBC News Analysis of Xi Jinping's bookshelf from the background of his New
Thousands of supporters of Jair Bolsonaro mount an insurrection in Brazil. / The Guardian Questions will be asked about whose side the police were on. More obvious, it seems, were Donald Trump's allies. / The Economist, BBC News Analysis of Xi Jinping's bookshelf from the background of his
It took all week, but late last night—following a historical, debasing 15th ballot—Kevin McCarthy became House speaker, crediting Trump for getting the final votes. / Associated Press Here's video from last night of Rep. Mike Rogers being restrained after he appears to go after Rep. Matt Gaetz,
It took all week, but late last night—following a historical, debasing 15th ballot—Kevin McCarthy became House speaker, crediting Trump for getting the final votes. / Associated Press Here's video from last night of Rep. Mike Rogers being restrained after he appears to go after Rep. Matt Gaetz,
Twelve experts offer thoughts on how we can avoid war with China over Taiwan, or anywhere else. / Foreign Policy Related: What we know on day 317 of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. / The Guardian An online black market for Covid-19 drugs is said to be thriving in China. / rest
Twelve experts offer thoughts on how to avoid war with China over Taiwan, or anywhere else. / Foreign Policy Related: What we know on day 317 of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. / The Guardian An online black market for Covid-19 drugs is said to be thriving in China. / rest of
Retail pharmacies will now be able to distribute abortion pills, no longer requiring patients to receive the drugs directly from their medical provider or a mail-order pharmacy. / STAT However, a federal judge who openly opposed Roe v. Wade might freeze the FDA's approval of one of the drugs
Retail pharmacies will now be able to distribute abortion pills, no longer requiring patients to receive the drugs directly from their medical provider or a mail-order pharmacy. / STAT However, a federal judge who openly opposed Roe v. Wade might freeze the FDA's approval of one of the drugs
Twenty-three experts tell Helen Branswell what surprised them the most about the pandemic. / STAT China is now proclaimed "the center of Covid." A professor at Yale Law School offers China-related predictions for 2023. / The Guardian, Twitter Temperatures for January reach an all-time high in a number of nations
Twenty-three experts tell Helen Branswell what surprised them the most about the pandemic. / STAT China is now proclaimed "the center of Covid." A professor at Yale Law School gives China-related predictions for 2023. / The Guardian, Twitter Temperatures for January reach an all-time high in a number of nations
China lashes out at a dozen nations placing "discriminatory" restrictions on its travelers. Meanwhile, the year's biggest economic event gets going. / Forbes, The Economist California prepares for a third atmospheric river. The rest of the country prepares for severe weather as a result of the second
China lashes out at a dozen nations placing "discriminatory" restrictions on its travelers. Meanwhile, the year's biggest economic event gets going. / Forbes, The Economist California prepares for a third atmospheric river as much of the rest of the country prepares for consequences from the second one.
We asked some of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2022, and what were the least?
TMN is going on a long winter's nap and will resume publishing on January 3, 2023. Until then, here are some groups our friends and family like to support. Survival International fights for Indigenous cultural and land rights worldwide, including uncontacted tribes. / Survival International Bangkok Community Help works
In a visit to DC, Zelenskyy requests more US support through aid and weapons. / Politico See also: Possible explanations for how Zelenskyy even traveled to the US. / BBC News US life expectancy falls for a second straight year—to its shortest since 1996—due to Covid deaths and drug overdoses.
In a visit to DC, Zelenskyy requests more US support through aid and weapons. / Politico See also: Possible explanations for how Zelenskyy even traveled to the US. / BBC News US life expectancy falls for a second straight year—to its shortest since 1996—due to Covid deaths and drug overdoses.
The House Ways and Means Committee votes to release former President Trump's tax returns in the next couple days. / NPR Details on the government funding package expected to pass this week. / Wake Up to Politics Wells Fargo will pay a record $3.7 billion to settle claims of
The House Ways and Means Committee votes to release former President Trump's tax returns in the next couple days. / NPR Details on the government funding package expected to pass this week. / Wake Up to Politics Wells Fargo will pay a record $3.7 billion to settle claims of
Russia's war in Ukraine and Iran's protests limited their respective abilities to interfere in America's midterm elections, according to a US military official. / Associated Press The big takeaway from the final Jan. committee hearing: Though Trump and others will be referred to the DoJ
Russia's war in Ukraine and Iran's protests limited their respective abilities to interfere in America's midterm elections, according to a US military official. / Associated Press The big takeaway from the final Jan. committee hearing: Though Trump and others will be referred to the DoJ
A Chinese health official says his country faces three waves of Covid infections this winter. / BBC News Helen Branswell: Early flu season in the US may be peaking early. / STAT Research shows doctors and their families are less likely to follow guidelines about medicine. / MIT News Which countries performed best
A Chinese health official says his country faces three waves of Covid infections this winter. / BBC News Helen Branswell: Early flu season in the US may be peaking early. / STAT Research shows doctors and their families are less likely to follow guidelines about medicine. / MIT News Which countries performed best
The US pledges $55 billion to the African continent over the next three years, playing catch-up to China’s investments. / Reuters, South China Morning Post Elections across Africa are becoming increasingly competitive. / The Economist Ukrainian commanders say Russia may be planning a new attack on Kyiv early next year. / BBC
The US pledges $55 billion to the African continent over the next three years, playing catch-up to China's investments. / Reuters, South China Morning Post Elections across Africa are becoming increasingly competitive. / The Economist Ukrainian commanders say Russia may be planning a new attack on Kyiv early next year.
The Senate passes $858 billion defense legislation that includes funding for Ukraine and Taiwan and rescinds the military's vaccine mandate. / CNN EU leaders agree on more sanctions for Russia and €18 billion in financing for Ukraine. / Reuters The Senate has also approved a short-term funding bill to avoid
The Senate passes $858 billion defense legislation that includes funding for Ukraine and Taiwan and rescinds the military's vaccine mandate. / CNN EU leaders agree on more sanctions for Russia and €18 billion in financing for Ukraine. / Reuters The Senate has also approved a short-term funding bill to avoid
The Federal Reserve raises its benchmark interest rate to the highest level in 15 years, indicating no reductions until 2024. / CNBC Eight social media influencers are charged in a $100 million stock manipulation scheme. / Business Insider A study from the CDC says US deaths tied to long Covid exceeds 3,
The Federal Reserve raises its benchmark interest rate to the highest level in 15 years, indicating no reductions until 2024. / CNBC Eight social media influencers are charged in a $100 million stock manipulation scheme. / Business Insider A study from the CDC says US deaths tied to long Covid exceed 3,
Biden signs legislation requiring same-sex and interracial marriages to be recognized across state lines. / NPR Because it also provides concessions to nonprofit religious groups, the Respect for Marriage Act opens the door for further discrimination against same-sex couples. / The New Yorker From 2014: After moving to a state that doesn&
Biden signs legislation requiring same-sex and interracial marriages to be recognized across state lines. / NPR Because it also provides concessions to nonprofit religious groups, the Respect for Marriage Act opens the door for further discrimination against same-sex couples. / The New Yorker From 2014: After moving to a state that doesn&
US scientists produce a nuclear fusion reaction resulting in a net energy gain—a very, very small version of what powers the sun. / CNN Fusion looks unlikely to play a major role in power production before the 2060s or '70s. / NPR Maps show households in denser neighborhoods close to
US scientists produce a nuclear fusion reaction resulting in a net energy gain—a very, very small version of what powers the sun. / CNN Fusion looks unlikely to play a major role in power production before the 2060s or '70s. / NPR Maps show households in denser neighborhoods to be
Arizona's outgoing governor is pressing forward with a scheme to erect hundreds of shipping containers topped with razor wire along the state's border with Mexico. / Associated Press US legal experts on how free speech can be modified to punish lying—or at the very least curtail
Arizona's outgoing governor is pressing forward with a scheme to erect hundreds of shipping containers topped with razor wire along the state's border with Mexico. / Associated Press US legal experts on how free speech can be modified to punish lying—or at the very least curtail
Please forgive today's delayed appearance. People are getting sick out here! The White House says Russia and Iran's relationship has warmed to a fully fledged defense partnership. / Al Jazeera Interviews with a self-appointed king living inside Germany, a state he doesn't recognize as legitimate.
Please forgive today's delayed appearance in your inbox. People are getting sick out here! The White House says Russia and Iran's relationship has warmed to a fully fledged defense partnership. / Al Jazeera Interviews with a self-appointed king living inside Germany, a state he doesn't
Here are the books, judges, and Zombie poll for the 2023 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
The BBC's list of 100 influential women includes Olena Zelenska, Billie Eilish, and Iranian climber Elnaz Rekabi. / BBC News Iranian medics say security forces are targeting women's faces, breasts, and genitals. / The Guardian Since 2013, Nigeria's military has run a secret mass abortion program
The BBC's list of 100 influential women this year includes Olena Zelenska, Billie Eilish, and Iranian climber Elnaz Rekabi. / BBC News Iranian medics say security forces are targeting women's faces, breasts, and genitals. / The Guardian Since 2013, Nigeria's military has run a secret mass
China eases its harsher coronavirus policies amid mounting public pressure. / Quartz Social media suggests a growing number of Chinese people know someone who has Covid, a month prior to millions celebrating the lunar new year. / The Economist See also: "Based on what we have seen in Hong Kong, this
China eases its harsher coronavirus policies amid mounting public pressure. / Quartz Social media suggests a growing number of Chinese people know someone who has Covid, a month prior to millions celebrating the lunar new year. / The Economist See also: "Based on what we have seen in Hong Kong, this
In the week ending November 26, more than 34,000 positive flu tests were reported in the US, the most in a single week during any flu season on record. / Vox Avian influenza has led to the deaths of over 52 million birds in the United States this year. / Smithsonian
In the week ending November 26, more than 34,000 positive flu tests were reported in the US, the most in a single week during any flu season on record. / Vox Avian influenza has led to the deaths of over 52 million birds in this year in the United States.
More drone strikes attack Russia. Ukraine doesn't claim responsibility, but a presidential advisor taunts the Kremlin on Twitter. / USA Today, Twitter An explainer why sanctions against Russia will cause long-term damage, but presently aren't working. / NPR For today's Senate runoff in Georgia, five key
More drone strikes attack Russia. Ukraine doesn't claim responsibility, but a presidential advisor taunts the Kremlin on Twitter. / USA Today, Twitter An explainer why sanctions against Russia will cause long-term damage, but presently aren't working. / NPR For today's Senate runoff in Georgia, five key
A senior official in Iran suggests the morality police have been disbanded, but local media say his remarks have been "misinterpreted." / BBC News Supposedly, a decision will be made in December on whether to abolish the mandatory hijab altogether. / The Economist France bans short haul domestic flights in
A senior official in Iran suggests the morality police have been disbanded, but local media say his remarks have been "misinterpreted." / BBC News Supposedly, a decision will be made in December on whether to abolish Iran's mandatory hijab altogether. / The Economist France bans short domestic flights
Russia says it "will not accept" the G7's $60-a-barrel price cap on its oil exports. / Reuters Internal documents show the US Army planned to sponsor Call of Duty streamers to attract Gen Z recruits. / Motherboard "It is easy to see Metallica as an instigating force—
Russia says it "will not accept" the G7's $60-a-barrel price cap on its oil exports. / Reuters Internal documents show the US Army planned to sponsor Call of Duty streamers to attract Gen Z recruits. / Motherboard "It is easy to see Metallica as an instigating force—
China plans to announce an easing of its Covid quarantine protocols and a reduction in mass testing. / Reuters Helen Branswell: Hong Kong's zero Covid policy, in the face of Omicron, led to half the population getting infected within two months. / STAT Unrelated: A Buddhist temple in Thailand goes
China plans to announce an easing of its Covid quarantine protocols and a reduction in mass testing. / Reuters Hong Kong's zero Covid policy, in the face of Omicron, led to half the population getting infected within two months. / STAT Unrelated: A Buddhist temple in Thailand goes empty after
France becomes the first major western power to support trying Russian officials over the war in Ukraine. / The Guardian Millions of people in Ukraine are said to be without power as winter nears. / BBC News Christopher Blatterman: Peace gets tricky when both sides of a war find the idea of
France becomes the first major western power to support trying Russian officials over the war in Ukraine. / The Guardian Millions of people in Ukraine are said to be without power as winter nears. / BBC News Christopher Blatterman: Peace gets tricky when both sides of a war find the idea of
The United States Senate passes legislation to protect same-sex and interracial marriage. Meanwhile, a court in Japan upholds a ban. / CNN, Reuters The White House asks Congress to avert a rail strike, which could cost the American economy as much as $2 billion per day. / Voice of America Jay Caspian
The United States Senate passes legislation to protect same-sex and interracial marriage. Meanwhile, a court in Japan upholds a ban. / CNN, Reuters The White House asks Congress to avert a rail strike, which could cost the American economy as much as $2 billion per day. / Voice of America Jay Caspian
China announces a new social credit law, attempting to codify past experiments. / MIT Technology Review To understand China's zero-covid policy, it's helpful to think of it "as a steampunk pandemic response." / The Economist Unrelated: Cities where "vision zero," regarding traffic deaths, is
China announces a new social credit law, attempting to codify past experiments. / MIT Technology Review To understand China's zero-covid policy, it's helpful to think of it "as a steampunk pandemic response." / The Economist Unrelated: Cities where "vision zero," regarding traffic deaths, is
In China, protests over Covid lockdown restrictions intensify across multiple cities and universities. / BuzzFeed News Related: With its anti-propaganda team now decimated, Twitter is being overwhelmed by spam in attempts to drown out coverage of the protests. / The Washington Post Iran wants the US suspended from the World Cup over
In China, protests over Covid lockdown restrictions intensify across multiple cities and universities. / BuzzFeed News Related: With its anti-propaganda team now decimated, Twitter is being overwhelmed by spam in attempts to drown out coverage of the protests. / The Washington Post Iran wants the US suspended from the World Cup over
TMN is going on holiday for a couple days. See you Monday. As 2023 begins, the world's most important climate system remains locked in La Niña. / The Economist Iranian security forces use ambulances against protesters. They also use sexual assault. / The New York Times, CNN Workers at Foxconn&
TMN is going on holiday for a couple days. See you Monday. As 2023 begins, the world's most important climate system remains locked in La Niña. / The Economist Iranian security forces use ambulances against protesters. They also use sexual assault. / The New York Times, CNN Workers at Foxconn&
More than 50 million people are traveling this weekend, reaching 98% of pre-pandemic Thanksgiving travel. / MarketWatch A reporter is detained for wearing a rainbow T-shirt to the World Cup. / Fútbol with Grant Wahl See also: "'It feels,' says one journalist, 'like a country that's
More than 50 million people are traveling this weekend, reaching 98% of pre-pandemic Thanksgiving travel. / MarketWatch A reporter is detained for wearing a rainbow T-shirt to the World Cup. / Fútbol with Grant Wahl See also: "'It feels,' says one journalist, 'like a country that's
An earthquake shakes Indonesia's main island of Java, killing at least 46 people. / BBC News A 22-year-old gunman opens fire inside a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs, killing five people before he's subdued by patrons. / NPR Helen Branswell: How infectious disease experts are responding to Covid
An earthquake shakes Indonesia's main island of Java, killing at least 46 people. / BBC News A 22-year-old gunman opens fire inside a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs, killing five people before he's subdued by patrons. / NPR Helen Branswell: How infectious disease experts are responding to Covid
A group of conspiracy theorists have convinced Arizona officials to delay certifying last week's election results, claiming voting machines weren't certified. / Associated Press As the threat of the Supreme Court overturning Obergefell looms, here's what in Congress's new bill to protect same-sex
A group of conspiracy theorists have convinced Arizona officials to delay certifying last week's election results, claiming voting machines weren't certified. / Associated Press As the threat of the Supreme Court overturning Obergefell looms, here's what in Congress's new bill to protect same-sex
Fiji's "unprecedented" progress in relocating people threatened by climate change previews challenges to come. / The Guardian While the climate crisis reduces avian populations, an Indigenous-led effort is underway to ensure tribes don't lose access to feathers they need for ceremonies. / Atmos Four dams on
Looking ahead to the 2023 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes, with 68 works of fiction we admired this year.
Fiji's "unprecedented" progress in relocating people threatened by climate change previews challenges to come. / The Guardian While the climate crisis reduces avian populations, an Indigenous-led effort is underway to ensure tribes don't lose access to feathers they need for ceremonies. / Atmos Four dams on
An interactive explanation of how Ukraine blew up the Kerch Strait Bridge connecting Russia to Crimea. / The New York Times "Everybody's a Joe Manchin." By only the slimmest of margins, Republicans have won the House of Representatives. Expect turmoil. / Politico After two decades of leading House
An interactive explanation of how Ukraine blew up the Kerch Strait Bridge connecting Russia to Crimea. / The New York Times "Everybody's a Joe Manchin." By only the slimmest of margins, Republicans have won the House of Representatives. Expect turmoil. / Politico After two decades of leading House
Poland says the missile strike on its land appears to be an accident by Ukraine. / NPR On the day FTX declared insolvency, El Salvador, suffering the Bitcoin crash, announced a free trade agreement with China. / The Guardian A South Korean regional leader's dislike of a new Legoland park
Poland says the missile strike on its land appears to be an accident by Ukraine. / NPR On the day FTX declared insolvency, El Salvador, suffering the Bitcoin crash, announced a free trade agreement with China. / The Guardian A South Korean regional leader's dislike of a new Legoland park
Republicans are one seat away from taking back the House of Representatives. / Politico Former President Trump is expected to announce a third run for presidency tonight. Meanwhile, former Vice President Pence is denouncing him on book tour. / CNN, Reliable Sources Michele Obama says Trump's victory in 2016 still
Republicans are one seat away from taking back the House of Representatives. / Politico Former President Trump is expected to announce a third run for presidency tonight. Meanwhile, former Vice President Pence is denouncing him on book tour. / CNN, Reliable Sources Michele Obama says Trump's victory in 2016 still
The planet's population is expected to reach eight billion tomorrow. "Whether this constitutes a threat to civilization is not so clear." / The Economist Demand for lithium may grow more than 40 times its current levels if the world wants to meet its Paris goals. / BBC Future
The planet's population is expected to reach eight billion tomorrow. "Whether this constitutes a threat to civilization is not so clear." / The Economist Demand for lithium may grow more than 40 times its current levels if the world wants to meet its Paris goals. / BBC Future
Why the FBI is so far behind on cybercrime—the bureau's culture prizes agents who can do "any job, anywhere," which pushes out specialists. / The New York Times "The emergency gyno shook her head... 'Whoever did this to you ought to be shot in
Why the FBI is so far behind on cybercrime—the bureau's culture prizes agents who can do "any job, anywhere," which pushes out specialists. / The New York Times "The emergency gyno shook her head... 'Whoever did this to you ought to be shot in
Ukraine's armed forces reach the center of Kherson, a key port city, as Russian forces retreat. / The Guardian Imagining peace in Ukraine: How a stable and successful country could emerge from the trauma of Russia's invasion. / The Economist Winnipeg's police chief explains why his
Ukraine's armed forces reach the center of Kherson, a key port city, as Russian forces retreat. / The Guardian Imagining peace in Ukraine: How a stable and successful country could emerge from the trauma of Russia's invasion. / The Economist Winnipeg's police chief explains why his
New York passes a $4 billion environmental bond act to disburse benefits to communities most impacted by the climate crisis. / The Guardian France plans to require all large parking lots to be covered by solar panels. Japan seeks to turn down private air conditioners remotely. / Electrek, Japan Today During the
New York passes a $4 billion environmental bond act with a plan to disburse benefits to communities most impacted by the climate crisis. / The Guardian France plans to require all large parking lots to be covered by solar panels. Japan seeks to turn down private air conditioners remotely. / Electrek, Japan
As of this morning, the US Senate is still up for grabs with Georgia, Arizona, Nevada, and Wisconsin in play. / Politico Republicans are expected to retake control of the House, even if a "red wave" or "red tsunami" isn't getting them there. / Wake Up
As of this morning, the US Senate is still up for grabs with Georgia, Arizona, Nevada, and Wisconsin in play. / Politico Republicans are expected to retake control of the House, even if a "red wave" or "red tsunami" isn't getting them there. / Wake Up
Election day arrives in the United States "shadowed by inflation, abortion, and threats to democracy." / NPR Robert Reich: Please don't say inflation is at a 40-year high without also mentioning that corporate profits are at a 70-year high. / Twitter See also: How can you walk by
Election day arrives in the United States "shadowed by inflation, abortion, and threats to democracy." / NPR Robert Reich: Please don't say inflation is at a 40-year high without also mentioning that corporate profits are at a 70-year high. / Twitter Unrelated: How can you walk by $3
For the first time in modern US history, most white Americans don't live in predominantly white neighborhoods. / The Washington Post This week's contest for US Senate control is said to be a "toss up," while the House of Representatives is going "likely Republican.
For the first time in modern US history, most white Americans don't live in predominantly white neighborhoods. / The Washington Post This week's contest for US Senate control is said to be a "toss up," while the House of Representatives is going "likely Republican.
America was fighting domestic terrorism before Sept. 11—when intelligence resources shifted to the war on terror, far-right extremism grew in the shadows. / Foreign Affairs Fears of nuclear war were replaced by fears of climate change—which makes it all the more strange now that the former has again reared
America was fighting domestic terrorism before Sept. 11—when intelligence resources shifted to the war on terror, far-right extremism grew in the shadows. / Foreign Affairs Fears of nuclear war were replaced by fears of climate change—which makes it all the more strange now that the former has again reared
"Roughly five million Americans would be willing to kill someone to achieve a political purpose, according to a new UC Davis study." / Los Angeles Times Qatar has been preparing for the World Cup for over a decade, in which time thousands of migrants working on the project have
"Roughly five million Americans would be willing to kill someone to achieve a political purpose, according to a new UC Davis study." / Los Angeles Times Qatar has been preparing for the World Cup for over a decade, in which time thousands of migrants working on the project have
According to the United Nations, more than 14 million people have fled their homes in Ukraine since Russia's invasion in February. / PBS A gay Russian journalist relates a very compelling, horrifying story about participating in conversion therapy. / GQ See also: "'Restoring Beds, or Wombs,' and
According to the United Nations, more than 14 million people have fled their homes in Ukraine since Russia's invasion in February. / PBS A gay Russian journalist relates a very compelling, horrifying story about participating in conversion therapy. / GQ See also: "'Restoring Beds, or Wombs,' and
Russia says it will resume participating in an agreement allowing Ukraine to export grain via the Black Sea. / Reuters Eastern Europe's largest bat rescue and research facility keeps operating despite accusations of spreading bioweapons. / Undark Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears to be on the verge of
Russia says it will resume participating in an agreement allowing Ukraine to export grain via the Black Sea. / Reuters Eastern Europe's largest bat rescue and research facility keeps the lights on despite accusations of spreading bioweapons. / Undark In Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu appears to be on the verge of
Some experts say Russia's recent mixed nuclear rhetoric is an attempt to pressure the West into forcing Ukraine to reach a peace settlement. / Vox Masha Gessen: The more the Kremlin signals its readiness to go nuclear, the more the world seeks a reason to believe that it will
Some experts say Russia's recent mixed nuclear rhetoric is an attempt to pressure the West into forcing Ukraine to reach a peace settlement. / Vox Masha Gessen: The more the Kremlin signals its readiness to go nuclear, the more the world seeks a reason to believe that it will
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva wins a third term in Brazil after beating Jair Bolsonaro. / The Economist The Disney resort in Shanghai shuts down and prevents guests from leaving unless they test negative for Covid. / Reuters Thanks to the Omicron variant, Covid-19 symptoms look increasingly like those of the flu,
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva wins a third term in Brazil after beating Jair Bolsonaro. / The Economist The Disney resort in Shanghai shuts down and prevents guests from leaving unless they test negative for Covid-19. / Reuters Workers break out of Apple's largest iPhone assembly factory in China after
A new UN report says Russian forces have committed an array of war crimes against Ukrainian civilians. (Content warning.) / CNBC Members of Florida's two medical boards approve language for the state's standard of care that would ban children from gender-affirming care. / Politico "What I found
A new UN report says Russian forces have committed an array of war crimes against Ukrainian civilians. (Content warning.) / CNBC Members of Florida's two medical boards approve language for the state's standard of care that would ban children from gender-affirming care. / Politico "What I found
Protests continue in Iran, with outrage spreading beyond the middle class. / The Economist Same-sex marriage goes legal nationwide in Mexico. / Al Jazeera An index measures countries' contributions outside their borders. / Good Country Index Ballot measures to watch across the country this November: abortion, slavery, referenda on referenda. / Wake Up
Protests continue in Iran, with outrage spreading beyond the middle class. / The Economist Same-sex marriage goes legal nationwide in Mexico. / Al Jazeera An index measures countries' contributions outside their borders. / Good Country Index Ballot measures to watch across the country this November: abortion, slavery, referenda on referenda. / Wake Up
The world's three main greenhouse gasses hit record high levels last year in the atmosphere. / The Associated Press New York City wants to use sunken basketball courts to soak up tomorrow's extreme rain. / Grist Meanwhile, the "shed insurgency" of New York City dining, where
The world's three main greenhouse gasses hit record high levels last year in the atmosphere. / The Associated Press New York City wants to use sunken basketball courts to soak up tomorrow's extreme rain. / Grist Meanwhile, the "shed insurgency" of New York City dining, where
Following a Russian court's denial of her appeal, Brittney Griner could now be sent to a penal colony for the next eight years. / CNBC Here's what you should read by and about "author and activist, radical hero, and family man" Mike Davis, who died
Following a Russian court's denial of her appeal, Brittney Griner could now be sent to a penal colony for the next eight years. / CNBC Here's what you should read by and about "author and activist, radical hero, and family man" Mike Davis, who died
The Kremlin is said to be weighing how to respond to yet another anticipated battlefield defeat in Ukraine. / The Guardian Related: The three fundamentals that guide Putin's decision-making. / Just Security Ukrainian officials complain that Russia is once more weaponizing water. / Reuters Refugees share pictures and stories of things
The Kremlin is said to be weighing how to respond to yet another anticipated battlefield defeat in Ukraine. / The Guardian See also: The three fundamentals that guide Putin's decision-making. / Just Security Ukrainian officials complain that Russia is once more weaponizing water. / Reuters Refugees share pictures and stories of
Kjetil Tronvoll: The world´s largest ongoing armed conflict isn't Russia's attack on Ukraine, but Ethiopia and Eritrea´s massive offensives on Tigray. / Twitter Nigeria's extensive flooding this year has killed more than 300 people. / The Republic Europe seems to be ready for winter
Kjetil Tronvoll: The world´s largest ongoing armed conflict isn't Russia's attack on Ukraine, but Ethiopia and Eritrea´s massive offensives on Tigray. / Twitter Nigeria's extensive flooding this year has killed more than 300 people. / The Republic Europe seems to be ready for winter
Canada's legislation to "freeze" all sales and purchases of handguns took effect yesterday. The measure was introduced after the mass shootings in Uvalde and Buffalo. / CBC, NPR Jamelle Bouie: "To wait to rectify the sins of the present—to sidestep justice in favor of comfort—
Canada's legislation to "freeze" all sales and purchases of handguns took effect yesterday. The measure was introduced after the mass shootings in Uvalde and Buffalo. / CBC, NPR Jamelle Bouie: "To wait to rectify the sins of the present—to sidestep justice in favor of comfort—
The White House says Iranian military experts are on the ground in Crimea, helping Russia launch drone attacks on Ukraine. / BBC News Liz Truss entered the role of PM amid economic uncertainty—now her resignation has compounded the challenges facing Britain. / The New York Times Related: Among the possible candidates
The White House says Iranian military experts are on the ground in Crimea, helping Russia launch drone attacks on Ukraine. / BBC News Liz Truss entered the role of PM amid economic uncertainty—now her resignation has compounded the challenges facing Britain. / The New York Times Related: Among the possible candidates
The current protests in Iran, which have spread to more than 100 cities, suggest "the grandchildren are devouring the revolution." / Foreign Affairs A jubilant crowd in Tehran meets the Iranian climber who competed without wearing a hijab. / BBC News Related: An Iranian woman describes her first day at
Since 2015, more than 500 retired US military personnel—including generals and admirals— have worked for foreign governments, mostly in countries known for human rights abuses. / The Washington Post In the past year, people in more than 90 countries have protested over fuel prices. / BBC News Vladimir Putin declares martial
Since 2015, more than 500 retired US military personnel—including generals and admirals—have worked for foreign governments, mostly in countries known for human rights abuses. / The Washington Post In the past year, people in more than 90 countries have protested over fuel prices. / BBC News Vladimir Putin declares martial
From Connecticut to South Dakota, a roundup of close political contests to watch next month. / Wake Up to Politics Racist appeals from the GOP appear to be receiving less pushback from Republicans than in previous election cycles. / The Washington Post Francis Fukuyama finds yet more evidence that we really are
From Connecticut to South Dakota, a roundup of close political contests to watch next month. / Wake Up to Politics Racist appeals from the GOP appear to be receiving less pushback from Republicans than in previous election cycles. / The Washington Post Francis Fukuyama finds yet more evidence that we really are
About half of American voters aged 19 to 29 say they're absolutely certain to vote in November, much less than their older counterparts. / MSNBC A new poll finds Republicans leading by three points nationally. / The New York Times The current government in the United Kingdom is "a
About half of American voters aged 19 to 29 say they're absolutely certain to vote next month, much less than their older counterparts. / MSNBC A new poll finds Republicans leading by three points nationally. / The New York Times The current government in the United Kingdom is "a
Visualizing the scale of Russia's attacks this week on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. / The Washington Post See also: Fearing nuclear exposure stemming from the war in Ukraine, some European countries are stockpiling iodine tablets. / Associated Press "It is far more possible than most outside observers realize.
Visualizing the scale of Russia's attacks this week on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. / The Washington Post See also: Fearing nuclear exposure stemming from the war in Ukraine, some European countries are stockpiling iodine tablets. / Associated Press "It is far more possible than most outside observers realize.
Representatives drawn from 46 national parliaments across Europe call for Putin's Russia to be declared a "terrorist" regime. / CNN Iranian protesters explain why, four weeks later, they're still in the streets. / Intelligencer Background info on the Basij, the volunteers leading the crackdown on Iran&
Representatives drawn from 46 national parliaments across Europe call for Putin's Russia to be declared a "terrorist" regime. / CNN Iranian protesters explain why, four weeks later, they're still in the streets. / Intelligencer Background info on the Basij, the volunteers leading the crackdown on Iran&
In its strongest support for Ukraine since the invasion, the UN General Assembly votes to demand Russia reverse its annexation ploy. / PBS NewsHour Since Florida's ban, enacted in July, at least two children who were the victims of incest have been denied abortions. / BuzzFeed News Social Security is
In its strongest support for Ukraine since the invasion, the UN General Assembly votes to demand Russia reverse its annexation ploy. / PBS NewsHour Since Florida's ban, enacted in July, at least two children who were the victims of incest have been denied abortions. / BuzzFeed News Social Security is
Protests in Iran continue despite the crackdown by security forces that one human rights group says has killed at least 201 people. / BBC News The midsummer polling "tick" in Democrats' favor "has duly been answered by a Republican 'tock' this autumn." / The Economist
Protests in Iran continue despite the crackdown by security forces that one human rights group says has killed at least 201 people. / BBC News The midsummer polling "tick" in Democrats' favor "has duly been answered by a Republican 'tock' this autumn." / The Economist
Art Laboe, a radio DJ who helped desegregate American music—and who broadcast his final show on Sunday after 79 years on the air—has died at 97. / NBC News The story of Shervin Hajipour's "Baraye," the song that's become the anthem of the
Art Laboe, a radio DJ who helped desegregate American music—and who broadcast his final show on Sunday after 79 years on the air—has died at 97. / NBC News The story of Shervin Hajipour's "Baraye," the song that's become the anthem of the
Russian missiles hit civilian targets around Ukraine after an explosion disrupts Crimea's only bridge to Russia. / BBC News The UN opens debate on a resolution condemning Russia's annexation of four Ukrainian regions. / The Times of Israel See also: How many days since specific types of incident.
Russian missiles hit civilian targets around Ukraine after an explosion disrupts Crimea's only bridge to Russia. / BBC News The UN opens debate on a resolution condemning Russia's annexation of four Ukrainian regions. / The Times of Israel Related/unrelated: How many days since specific types of incidents.
We'll be away next week and will return on Monday, Oct. 10—see you then! Surrounded by Ukrainian forces, Russian troops abandon Lyman in Donetsk, a day after Putin declared the annexation of the region. / Reuters "Amid the bluster and veiled threats, [Putin] made three distinct points
We'll be away next week and will return on Monday, Oct. 10—see you then! Surrounded by Ukrainian forces, Russian troops abandon Lyman in Donetsk, a day after Putin declared the annexation of the region. / Reuters "Amid the bluster and veiled threats, [Putin] made three distinct points
How to understand Xi Jingping: as the builder of "a high-tech apparatus of incentives and coercion" designed to maintain party control. / The Economist After a turbulent week for UK markets, some see British Prime Minister Liz Truss causing a political earthquake. / The Guardian Unrelated/related: What's
After a turbulent week for UK markets, some see British Prime Minister Liz Truss causing a political earthquake. / The Guardian Unrelated/related: What's up with Truss's signature necklace and its potential ties to BDSM culture? / Gawker Preliminary analysis suggests the monkeypox vaccine is reducing the risk
Hear intercepted calls from Russian soldiers describing battlefield disasters and war crimes. (Content warning.) / The New York Times Claiming occupied areas of Ukraine voted in favor of the move, Russia says it will annex the regions—repeating the process it used to take over the Crimean Peninsula in 2014. / NPR
Hear intercepted calls from Russian soldiers describing battlefield disasters and war crimes. (Content warning.) / The New York Times Claiming occupied areas of Ukraine voted in favor of the move, Russia says it will annex the regions—repeating the process it used to take over the Crimean Peninsula in 2014. / NPR
Floods along Nigeria's borders with Niger, Chad, and Cameroon kill hundreds and leave tens of thousands homeless. / Foreign Policy Iranian women abroad are watching the ongoing protests "with pride and fear." / BuzzFeed News Patricia Cohen: The dollar being strong is good for the US but bad
Floods along Nigeria's borders with Niger, Chad, and Cameroon kill hundreds and leave tens of thousands homeless. / Foreign Policy Iranian women abroad are watching the ongoing protests "with pride and fear." / BuzzFeed News Patricia Cohen: The dollar being strong is good for the US but bad
Areas in Cuba are evacuating and Florida prepares as Hurricane Ian gains strength. / NBC News According to the Congressional Budget Office, the Biden administration's student loan forgiveness plan will cost $400 billion over 30 years. / CNBC A school shooting in central Russia leaves 17 dead, including 11 children.
Areas in Cuba are evacuating and Florida prepares as Hurricane Ian gains strength. / NBC News According to the Congressional Budget Office, the Biden administration's student loan forgiveness plan will cost $400 billion over 30 years. / CNBC A school shooting in central Russia leaves 17 dead, including 11 children.
Global banks seek to manage exposures in China, considering tensions over Taiwan. / Bloomberg, USA Today Far-right leader Giorgia Meloni claims victory in Italy's election, and is on course to become the country's first female prime minister. / The Economist Denmark and Germany are building the world'
Global banks seek to manage exposures in China, considering tensions over Taiwan. / Bloomberg, USA Today Far-right leader Giorgia Meloni claims victory in Italy, on course to become the country's first female prime minister. / The Economist Denmark and Germany are building the world's longest immersed tunnel. / CNN
The White House is sending private warnings to Moscow against using a nuclear weapon in Ukraine. / The Washington Post In 2020 and 2021, 109 soldiers assigned to Fort Bragg lost their lives, almost entirely stateside. Eleven soldiers were murdered or charged with murder. / Rolling Stone Thousands of oral histories from
The White House is sending private warnings to Moscow against using a nuclear weapon in Ukraine. / The Washington Post In 2020 and 2021, 109 soldiers assigned to Fort Bragg lost their lives, almost entirely stateside. Eleven soldiers were murdered or charged with murder. / Rolling Stone Thousands of oral histories from
Protests in Iran over the death of a young woman in police custody spread to more than a dozen cities, as shutdowns take effect to disrupt mobile internet and social media access. / Associated Press, The Guardian "This is unprecedented. We haven't seen this level of fury and
Protests in Iran over the death of a young woman in police custody spread to more than a dozen cities, as shutdowns take effect to disrupt mobile internet and social media access. / Associated Press, The Guardian "This is unprecedented. We haven't seen this level of fury and
Security forces in Russia detain more than 1,300 people at protests denouncing Putin's mobilization. / The Guardian Russian men explain how they're trying to resist Putin's call-up of soldiers. / BBC News Protests spread in Iran after a 22-year-old woman is killed by the morality
Security forces in Russia detain more than 1,300 people at protests denouncing Putin's mobilization. / The Guardian Russian men explain how they're trying to resist Putin's call-up of soldiers. / BBC News Protests spread in Iran after a 22-year-old woman is killed by the morality
One-way flights out of Russia sell out as Putin mobilizes 300,000 reservists. / Reuters In what Ukraine and Western leaders are calling a sham referendum, Russian-controlled regions in Ukraine are voting on whether to become part of Russia. / Associated Press Ranking states based on where it's easiest (Oregon)
One-way flights out of Russia sell out as Putin mobilizes 300,000 reservists. / Reuters In what Ukraine and Western leaders are calling a sham referendum, Russian-controlled regions in Ukraine are voting on whether to become part of Russia. / Associated Press Ranking states based on where it's easiest (Oregon)
President Biden says the pandemic is over. Whether or not it was a gaffe, his health advisors seek to clarify. / Politico Helen Branswell: Reaching the end of a pandemic is not like driving out of one county into the next. / STAT Recalling the New York Times recent investigation into politicians
President Biden says the pandemic is over. Whether or not his comment's a gaffe, his health advisors would like to clarify. / Politico Helen Branswell: Reaching the end of a pandemic is not like driving out of one county into the next. / STAT Recalling the recent investigation by the
Citing concerns over authoritarianism and money mismanagement, the EU's executive branch recommends suspending funding to Hungary. / ABC News Russia looks to tighten its "comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation" with China. / Associated Press See also: "How the war in Ukraine turned Moscow into Beijing's
Citing concerns over authoritarianism and money mismanagement, the EU's executive branch recommends suspending funding to Hungary. / ABC News Russia looks to tighten its "comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation" with China. / Associated Press See also: "How the war in Ukraine turned Moscow into Beijing's
A Venezuelan migrant says he was paid $200 to recruit people in San Antonio to go to Florida, where they were then flown to Martha's Vineyard. / San Antonio Report Abbott and DeSantis's transporting of migrants echos the 1962 Reverse Freedom Rides concocted by white southern segregationists.
A Venezuelan migrant says he was paid $200 to recruit people in San Antonio to go to Florida, where they were then flown to Martha's Vineyard. / San Antonio Report Abbott and DeSantis's transporting of migrants echos the 1962 Reverse Freedom Rides concocted by white southern segregationists.
The weather phenomenon La Niña has formed for the third consecutive year in the Pacific. / BBC News What La Niña is, how it forms, and why it poses a $1 trillion problem for homes and businesses. / Bloomberg The White House wants to develop 15 gigawatts of new floating offshore wind
The weather phenomenon La Niña has formed for the third consecutive year in the Pacific. / BBC News What La Niña is, how it forms, and why it poses a $1 trillion problem for homes and businesses. / Bloomberg The White House wants to develop 15 gigawatts of new floating offshore wind
Railroads and union representatives reach a tentative labor agreement, averting a rail strike that could have sent the US economy into a tailspin. / The New York Times, Associated Press Photos and videos of the military equipment Russian troops left behind while fleeing Izyum. / The Washington Post Patagonia's owners
Railroads and union representatives reach a tentative labor agreement, averting a rail strike that could have sent the US economy into a tailspin. / The New York Times, Associated Press Photos and videos of the military equipment Russian troops left behind while fleeing Izyum. / The Washington Post Patagonia's owners
Ed Yong: Brain fog, one of Long Covid's worst symptoms, leaves people struggling with minds "that are less nimble than before." / The Atlantic China's zero-Covid policy is stressful for students, but perhaps much worse for their teachers. / Sixth Tone Europe follows the US, kinda,
Ed Yong: Brain fog, one of Long Covid's worst symptoms, leaves people struggling with minds "that are less nimble than before." / The Atlantic China's zero-Covid policy is stressful for students, but perhaps much worse for their teachers. / Sixth Tone Europe follows the US, kinda,
The Justice Dept. approves one of Trump's special master candidates—and escalates its Jan. 6 investigation, issuing around 40 subpoenas in the past week. / The Washington Post, NBC News "In Texas, oncologists say they now wait for pregnant women with cancer to get sicker before they treat
The Justice Dept. approves one of Trump's special master candidates—and escalates its Jan. 6 investigation, issuing around 40 subpoenas in the past week. / The Washington Post, NBC News "In Texas, oncologists say they now wait for pregnant women with cancer to get sicker before they treat
"They asked, in Ukrainian, 'is anyone alive?'" New momentum in the biggest war in Europe since WWII. / BBC News A new report says an estimated 50 million people are victims of forced marriage and forced labor. / CNN China emerges as an IMF competitor by doling out
"They asked, in Ukrainian, 'is anyone alive?'" New momentum in the biggest war in Europe since WWII. / BBC News A new report says an estimated 50 million people are victims of forced marriage and forced labor. / CNN China emerges as an IMF competitor by doling out
Luke Mogelson looks at how MAGA Republicans have leaped from "backing the blue" to attacking law-enforcement officials. / The New Yorker A review of what your leaders in Washington worked on this week. / Wake Up to Politics How newspaper covers in Britain and around the world are covering Queen
Luke Mogelson reviews how MAGA Republicans have leaped from "backing the blue" to attacking law-enforcement officials. / The New Yorker What your leaders in Washington worked on this week. / Wake Up to Politics How newspaper covers in Britain and around the world are covering Queen Elizabeth's death.
CIA director on Putin's war: "There is going to be long-term damage done to the Russian economy and to generations of Russians." / The Guardian An elected county official has been arrested in connection with the murder of a Las Vegas journalist who was in the midst
CIA director on Putin's war: "There is going to be long-term damage done to the Russian economy and to generations of Russians." / The Guardian An elected county official has been arrested in connection with the murder of a Las Vegas journalist who was in the midst
Ukraine's president says his troops have recaptured several settlements from Russian forces. / BBC News France's dearth of Dijon mustard isn't about the war in Ukraine so much as Burgundian farmers and their crop yields. / BBC News By the end of 2022, China will have
Ukraine's president says his troops have recaptured several settlements from Russian forces. / Radio Free Europe France's dearth of Dijon mustard isn't about the war in Ukraine so much as Burgundian farmers and their crop yields. / BBC News By the end of 2022, China will
Among the materials seized from Mar-a-Lago were documents so highly classified that they required authorized clearance on a need-to-know basis. / The Washington Post For the first time, a judge has referred to Jan. 6 as an "insurrection," in a decision to remove a county commissioner from office for
Among the materials seized from Mar-a-Lago were documents so highly classified that they required authorized clearance on a need-to-know basis. / The Washington Post For the first time, a judge has referred to Jan. 6 as an "insurrection," in a decision to remove a county commissioner from office for
Liz Truss becomes the UK's prime minister with seeming plans to spend $116 billion to freeze household energy bills. / Reuters Related: Russia's weaponization of its energy supplies is testing Europe's financial resources. / The Economist Unrelated: An unofficial guide to London's most heterosexual
Liz Truss becomes the UK's prime minister with plans, or so it seems, to spend $116 billion to freeze household energy bills. / Reuters Related: Russia's weaponization of energy supplies is testing Europe's financial resources. / The Economist Unrelated: An unofficial guide to London's
We'll be off for Labor Day on Monday, and will see you again on Tuesday! Dictators have long used various methods to manipulate public opinion, and AI may become their most promising tool yet. / Foreign Affairs See also: The number of electoral autocracies is growing, resulting in more
We'll be off for Labor Day on Monday, and will see you again on Tuesday! Dictators have long used various methods to manipulate public opinion, and AI may become their most promising tool yet. / Foreign Affairs See also: The number of electoral autocracies is growing, resulting in more
The UN's outgoing human rights commissioner says China may have committed crimes against humanity by abusing Uyghur Muslims. / BBC News The US imposes new restrictions on sales of some sophisticated computer chips to China and Russia. / The New York Times French tax authorities use AI to spot thousands
The UN's outgoing human rights commissioner says China may have committed crimes against humanity by abusing Uyghur Muslims. / BBC News The US imposes new restrictions on sales of some sophisticated computer chips to China and Russia. / Reuters French tax authorities use AI to spot thousands of undeclared swimming
In its steepest decline in almost a century, US life expectancy has dropped sharply over the past two years. / STAT The latest national test results among American schoolchildren show the pandemic has reversed two decades of math and reading progress. / The New York Times As US bases reduced pandemic restrictions,
In its steepest decline in almost a century, US life expectancy has dropped sharply over the past two years. / STAT The latest national test results among American schoolchildren show the pandemic has reversed two decades of math and reading progress. / The New York Times As US bases reduced pandemic restrictions,
A study finds Black and Asian people in England have to wait longer for a cancer diagnosis than white people, with some forced to wait an extra six weeks. / The Guardian Congress's first Gen Z member is likely to be a Black anti-gun activist from central Florida. / The
A study from England finds Black and Asian people waiting longer than white people for a cancer diagnosis, with some forced to wait an extra six weeks. / The Guardian Congress's first Gen Z member is likely to be a Black anti-gun activist from central Florida. / The Root Unrelated/
In a "monster monsoon," a third of Pakistan is now underwater. / NBC News Related: Before-and-after satellite photos of the destruction in Pakistan. / Axios The Greenland ice sheet is losing ice at a rate that will add nearly a foot to sea levels—and there's no turning
In a "monster monsoon," a third of Pakistan is now underwater. / NBC News Related: Before-and-after satellite photos of the destruction in Pakistan. / Axios The Greenland ice sheet is losing ice at a rate that will add nearly a foot to sea levels—and there's no turning
NASA cancels today's "mega-moon" rocket launch due to an engine problem. / NPR The project's conception and execution are said to be "a near-perfect example of pork-barrel politics." / The Economist Related: How to eat desert like an Apollo 11 astronaut. / Atlas Obscura Scientists
NASA cancels today's "mega-moon" rocket launch due to an engine problem. / NPR The project's conception and execution are said to be "a near-perfect example of pork-barrel politics." / The Economist Related: How to eat desert like an Apollo 11 astronaut. / Atlas Obscura Scientists
Russia blocks adoption of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty over a Ukraine mention. / BBC News Remembering a largely forgotten Navy catastrophe that helped force the US military to desegregate. / Smithsonian Magazine State and federal authorities investigate the killing of a Yellowstone wolf by a veteran Park Service employee. / The Intercept An
Russia blocks adoption of The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty over a Ukraine mention. / BBC News Remembering a forgotten Navy catastrophe that helped force the US military to desegregate. / Smithsonian Magazine State and federal authorities investigate the killing of a Yellowstone wolf by a veteran Park Service employee. / The Intercept An endangered
Moderna is suing Pfizer and BioNTech, alleging they infringed on patents for the mRNA technology behind the Covid vaccines. / NBC News Following the fall of Roe, trigger laws took effect yesterday in Idaho, Tennessee, and Texas, banning abortion in those states. / CNN Unaccompanied immigrant children who are in US custody
Moderna is suing Pfizer and BioNTech, alleging they infringed on patents for the mRNA technology behind the Covid vaccines. / NBC News Following the fall of Roe, trigger laws took effect yesterday in Idaho, Tennessee, and Texas, banning abortion in those states. / CNN Unaccompanied immigrant children who are in US custody
Are sanctions on Russia working? Yes, but they're not a knockout blow, and other autocracies are watching. / The Economist Suketu Mehta: It is crucial that India remains a democracy for all its citizens. / Scroll.in The White House says it will cancel up to $20,000 of federal
Are sanctions on Russia working? Yes, but they're not a knockout blow, and other autocracies are watching. / The Economist Suketu Mehta: It is crucial that India remains a democracy for all its citizens. / Scroll.in The White House says it will cancel up to $20,000 of student
Six months after Russia's invasion, Ukraine today marks 31 years of independence, forgoing large celebrations over worries of "brutal strikes." / Associated Press See also: "We cannot stop, and we cannot move into a boring, low-intensity war. We need to think how we can squeeze them
Six months after Russia's invasion, Ukraine today marks 31 years of independence, forgoing large celebrations over worries of "brutal strikes." / Associated Press See also: "We cannot stop, and we cannot move into a boring, low-intensity war. We need to think how we can squeeze them
The cost of grains and oils has returned to a level last seen before Russia invaded Ukraine. / The Economist Meanwhile, French supermarkets and gas stations freeze prices for the next few months. / CNN See also: A bull rampages through a bank in Israel. / The Times of Israel In the UK,
The costs of grains and oils have returned to levels last seen before Russia invaded Ukraine. / The Economist French supermarkets and gas stations freeze prices for the next few months. / CNN See also: A bull rampages through a bank in Israel. / The Times of Israel In the UK, heatwaves and
Russia claims Ukraine is responsible for the car-bombing death near Moscow of Darya Dugina, daughter of Putin ally and invasion proponent Alexander Dugin. / BBC News Visualizing data from American mass killings—when four or more people are murdered—underscores how most of the deaths aren't those that generate
Russia claims Ukraine is responsible for the car-bombing death near Moscow of Darya Dugina, daughter of Putin ally and invasion proponent Alexander Dugin. / BBC News Visualizing data from American mass killings—when four or more people are murdered—underscores how most of the deaths aren't those that generate
TMN is taking a week's vacation. See you Monday, August 22. The White House unveils a new Africa strategy that seeks to avoid "painting African countries as geopolitical pawns." / Foreign Policy Kenya's presidential election remains too close to call, not to mention a test
TMN is going on a week's vacation. See you Monday, August 22. The White House unveils a new Africa strategy that seeks to avoid "painting African countries as geopolitical pawns." / Foreign Policy Kenya's presidential election remains too close to call, not to mention a
In the raid on Mar-a-Lago, the FBI was searching for classified documents, including some concerning nuclear weapons. / The Washington Post With an estimated 95% of Americans over 16 having some level of Covid immunity, the CDC relaxes its guidelines on quarantining, social distancing, and school testing. / Associated Press Johnson &
In the raid on Mar-a-Lago, the FBI was searching for classified documents, including some concerning nuclear weapons. / The Washington Post With an estimated 95% of Americans over 16 having some level of Covid immunity, the CDC relaxes its guidelines on quarantining, social distancing, and school testing. / Associated Press Johnson &
A large fire near the French city of Bordeaux forces 10,000 residents to flee. / BBC News It's unclear if the fossil fuel industry will use Joe Manchin's provisions on the senator's terms. / Grist Ahead of last weekend's big vote, Senate Democrats
A large fire near the French city of Bordeaux forces 10,000 residents to flee. / BBC News It's unclear if the fossil fuel industry will use Joe Manchin's provisions on the senator's terms. / Grist Ahead of last weekend's big vote, Senate Democrats
Biden signs a bill to invest more than $200 billion in American semiconductors in an effort to loosen dependence on overseas manufacturing. / CNN See also: Western chipsets have continued flowing to Russia, even after the invasion. And that same technology is turning up in weapons used to strike Ukraine. / Reuters
Biden signs a bill to invest more than $200 billion in American semiconductors in an effort to loosen dependence on overseas manufacturing. / CNN See also: Western chipsets have continued flowing to Russia, even after the invasion. And that same technology is turning up in weapons used to strike Ukraine. / Reuters
The FBI searches Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, part of an investigation into the handling of presidential documents. / Politico Maggie Haberman's forthcoming book reports that White House staff periodically found wads of paper clogging a toilet, and there are photos. / Axios Tucker Carlson is said to be
The FBI searches Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, part of an investigation into the handling of presidential documents. / Politico Maggie Haberman's forthcoming book reports that White House staff periodically found wads of paper clogging a toilet—and there are photos. / Axios Tucker Carlson is said to be
The $740 billion Inflation Reduction Act—nearly $375 billion of which is dedicated to fighting climate change—passed in the Senate along party lines. / Associated Press How does the Inflation Reduction Act ease the inflation we're feeling right now? It doesn't, but it will curtail persistent
The $740 billion Inflation Reduction Act—nearly $375 billion of which is dedicated to fighting climate change—passed in the Senate along party lines. / Associated Press How does the Inflation Reduction Act ease the inflation we're feeling right now? It doesn't, but it will curtail persistent
Yesterday, Indiana became the first state to pass a near-total abortion ban since Roe was overturned. / CNN Predicting how other states would vote if they had a Kansas-style abortion referendum. / The New York Times Ineffectual government guidance and Covid vaccine disinformation led to countless stillbirths that didn't have
Yesterday, Indiana became the first state to pass a near-total abortion ban since Roe was overturned. / CNN Predicting how other states would vote if they had a Kansas-style abortion referendum. / The New York Times Ineffectual government guidance and Covid vaccine disinformation led to countless stillbirths that didn't have
Russia indicates it's ready to talk about a prisoner swap, a day after it convicts Brittney Griner of drug smuggling. / CNN What we know on day 163 of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. / The Guardian Europe's Baltic ferries may not seem like the most pressing
Russia indicates it's ready to talk about a prisoner swap, a day after it convicts Brittney Griner of drug smuggling. / CNN What we know on day 163 of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. / The Guardian Europe's Baltic ferries may not seem like the most pressing
The Senate voted almost unanimously for the US to approve Finland and Sweden's entry into NATO. / Politico Biden signs an executive order that would use Medicaid to protect interstate travel for abortion access. / Associated Press "If any feminist progress is going to prompt outrage and resistance from
The Senate voted almost unanimously for the US to approve Finland and Sweden's entry into NATO. / Politico Biden signs an executive order that would use Medicaid to protect interstate travel for abortion access. / Associated Press "If any feminist progress is going to prompt outrage and resistance from
Senator Pelosi leaves behind a "full-on Pelosi lovefest" after her visit to Taiwan. Some detailing of six ways China may respond. / BBC News, Bloomberg Companies are moving operations out of China in the interest of "friendshoring"—looking for places where they won't be caught
Speaker of the House Pelosi leaves behind a "full-on lovefest" after her visit to Taiwan. Details on six ways China may respond. / BBC News, Bloomberg Companies are moving operations out of China in the interest of "friendshoring"—looking for places where they won't be
In the first Jan. 6 case to go to trial, a Texas man who brought a gun and zip ties to the Capitol has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison. / NBC News See also: A right-wing influencer cooperated with the FBI's Jan. 6 investigation, and
In the first Jan. 6 case to go to trial, a Texas man who brought a gun and zip ties to the Capitol has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison. / NBC News See also: A right-wing influencer cooperated with the FBI's Jan. 6 investigation, and
The world's nuclear stockpile is set to expand again this year, "and in many cases is being modernized." / The Economist Inflation continues while the US economy slows, but workers still see their wages rise. / Quartz Millennials gained $4.8 trillion of wealth in the past two
The world's nuclear stockpile is set to expand again, "and in many cases is being modernized." / The Economist Inflation continues while the US economy slows, but workers still see their wages rise. / Quartz Millennials gained $4.8 trillion of wealth in the past two years. Generation
Some key provisions in the climate bill that Democrats hope to get past Republicans next week, provided Kyrsten Sinema goes along. / The New York Times, The New Republic With the US Senate the oldest it's ever been, how are old people hanging on so long? / The Diff An
Some key provisions in the climate bill that Democrats hope to get past Republicans, provided Kyrsten Sinema goes along. / The New York Times, The New Republic With the US Senate the oldest it's ever been, how are old people hanging on so long? / The Diff An interesting roundtable
What's in the surprise Manchin-Schumer legislation, "one of the most consequential pieces of economic policy in recent US history." / The Washington Post In a call yesterday, Jinping warned Biden against "playing with fire" regarding Taiwan. / The Guardian See also: As the likelihood grows that
What's in the surprise Manchin-Schumer legislation, "one of the most consequential pieces of economic policy in recent US history." / The Washington Post In a call yesterday, Jinping warned Biden against "playing with fire" regarding Taiwan. / The Guardian See also: As the likelihood grows that
A melting glacier shifts the border between Switzerland and Italy. A mountain lodge says it's not changing its menu or wine list. / Euronews.green Gen-Z eco-activists on New York City's Upper East Side are deflating tires on SUVs. / The Guardian Saudi Arabia wants to build a
A melting glacier shifts the border between Switzerland and Italy. A mountain lodge says it's not changing its menu or wine list. / Euronews.green Gen-Z eco-activists on New York City's Upper East Side deflate tires on SUVs. / The Guardian Saudi Arabia wants to build a roadless,
As Russia continues to put the squeeze on Europe's natural gas supplies, EU governments strike an agreement to reduce their consumption by 15%. / Associated Press Russia says it will leave the International Space Station after its partnership with the US expires in 2024. Both Roscosmos and NASA are
As Russia continues to put the squeeze on Europe's natural gas supplies, EU governments strike an agreement to reduce their consumption by 15%. / Associated Press Russia says it will leave the International Space Station after its partnership with the US expires in 2024. Both Roscosmos and NASA are
The United States resurrects the green-energy loan program that put Tesla on the map. / The Verge A brief history of the devastating early '90s PR campaign that convinced the media that climate change wasn't real. / BBC News Some anecdotal theories as to why certain people still haven&
The United States resurrects the green-energy loan program that put Tesla on the map. / The Verge A brief history of the devastating '90s PR campaign that persuaded reporters that climate change wasn't real. / BBC News Anecdotal theories as to why some people still haven't gotten
As of this weekend, the World Health Organization has three declared public health emergencies right now: monkeypox, Covid, and polio. / BuzzFeed News The WHO warns against assuming monkeypox will remain concentrated among gay and bisexual communities, and that it could turn into a wider outbreak. / CNBC In the first three
As of this weekend, the World Health Organization has three declared public health emergencies right now: monkeypox, Covid, and polio. / BuzzFeed News The WHO warns against assuming monkeypox will remain concentrated among gay and bisexual communities, and that it could turn into a wider outbreak. / CNBC In the first three
Russia launches missile strikes on the Ukrainian port of Odesa a day after agreeing Ukraine could resume grain exports. / CNN Zelenskyy: Unless Russia returns occupied areas, a ceasefire will only prolong the conflict. / The Jerusalem Post "In their adherence to invisible rules, Putin and Biden have recaptured an important
Russia launches missile strikes on the Ukrainian port of Odesa a day after agreeing Ukraine could resume grain exports. / CNN Zelenskyy: Unless Russia returns occupied areas, a ceasefire will only prolong the conflict. / The Jerusalem Post "In their adherence to invisible rules, Putin and Biden have recaptured an important
The Jan. 6 Committee's "season finale" makes Trump's complicity clear. Four takeaways on his actions and inaction. / Slate, The Washington Post An unvaccinated young adult from New York contracts polio, the first U.S. case in nearly a decade. / The Associated Press Amazon, "
The Jan. 6 committee's "season finale" makes Trump's complicity clear. Four takeaways on his actions and inaction. / Slate, The Washington Post An unvaccinated young adult from New York contracts polio, the first US case in nearly a decade. / The Associated Press Amazon, "still
A bipartisan group of senators have finalized legislation to update the 1887 Electoral Count Act, which Trump and his allies exploited to try and pressure Pence to overturn the election. / POLITICO The Secret Service has been ignoring requests for Jan. 6 records since at least October of last year, according
A bipartisan group of senators have finalized legislation to update the 1887 Electoral Count Act, which Trump and his allies exploited to try and pressure Pence to overturn the election. / POLITICO The Secret Service has been ignoring requests for Jan. 6 records since at least October of last year, according
Europe finds its infrastructure struggling under extreme temperatures—roads buckling and train tracks bending. / Vox Extinction Rebellion protesters smash windows at Rupert Murdoch's media company after Britain's heatwave is treated as an upbeat story. / The Guardian Emily Atkin: We've been pushing news outlets to
Europe's infrastructure struggles with extreme temperatures—roads buckling and train tracks bending. / Vox Extinction Rebellion protesters smash windows at Rupert Murdoch's media company for treating Britain's heatwave as an upbeat story. / The Guardian Emily Atkin: We've been pushing news outlets for years
The UK is now the hottest it's ever been, as record highs continue to blast much of Europe. / AccuWeather Wildfires have forced thousands to flee in Europe, and heat-related causes have killed more than 1,100 in Spain and Portugal. / BBC News, Axios See also: The dangers of
The UK is now the hottest it's ever been, as record highs continue to blast much of Europe. / AccuWeather Wildfires have forced thousands to flee in Europe, and heat-related causes have killed more than 1,100 in Spain and Portugal. / BBC News, Axios See also: The dangers of
Extreme heat batters the United States and other nations, while Democratic Senators in DC are in a frenzy to pass anything. / Punchbowl News The head meteorologist for the UK's national weather service says heatwaves caused by the climate crisis are likely to be regular things. / The Guardian People
Extreme heat batters the United States and other nations, while Democratic Senators in DC are in a frenzy to pass anything. / Punchbowl News The head meteorologist for the UK's national weather service says heatwaves caused by the climate crisis are likely to become regular things. / The Guardian People
Biden pledges executive action on climate change following Manchin's choice to sink the administration's environmental legislation. / Associated Press The fossil-fuel industry is doubling down on plastic. A major player is Saudi Arabia, though the costs are being felt in Texas. / Public Health Watch How record-breaking temperatures
Shortly after officials requested the Secret Service's texts from Jan. 5 and Jan. 6, 2021, the messages were deleted as part of a "device-replacement program." / The Intercept See also: A DC police officer has corroborated details from Cassidy Hutchinson's secondhand account that Trump argued
Biden pledges executive action on climate change following Manchin's choice to sink the administration's environmental legislation. / Associated Press The fossil-fuel industry is doubling down on plastic. A major player is Saudi Arabia, though the costs are being felt in Texas. / Public Health Watch How record-breaking temperatures
Shortly after officials requested the Secret Service's texts from Jan. 5 and Jan. 6, 2021, the messages were deleted as part of a "device-replacement program." / The Intercept See also: A DC police officer has corroborated details from Cassidy Hutchinson's secondhand account that Trump argued
The FDA authorizes a Novavax Covid vaccine, in hopes the shot will convince holdouts who fear mNRA technology to get inoculated. / STAT For two months of intense lockdown, a network of volunteers delivered necessities to Shanghai's vulnerable. Then the bureaucracy shut it down. / 1843 Magazine A Los Angeles
The FDA authorizes a Novavax Covid vaccine, in hopes the shot will convince holdouts who fear mNRA technology to get inoculated. / STAT For two months of intense lockdown, a network of volunteers delivered necessities to Shanghai's vulnerable. Then the bureaucracy shut it down. / 1843 Magazine A Los Angeles
Disturbing footage from the Uvalde school shooting shows the infuriating inaction by law enforcement, who loitered in the hallway as children were murdered. (Discretion advised.) / Austin American-Statesman Globally, banning abortion tends not to reduce (by much) the number of abortions. But it makes every pregnancy more dangerous. / The Economist A
Disturbing footage from the Uvalde school shooting shows the infuriating inaction by law enforcement, who loitered in the hallway as children were murdered. (Discretion advised.) / Austin American-Statesman Globally, banning abortion tends not to reduce (by much) the number of abortions. But it makes every pregnancy more dangerous. / The Economist A
The White House says hospitals must provide abortion services in "emergency situations" to save the life or health of the patient, citing a federal law that supersedes state bans. / BuzzFeed News Related: Such emergency conditions include "ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss, or emergent hypertensive disorders, such
The White House says hospitals must provide abortion services in "emergency situations" to save the life or health of the patient, citing a federal law that supersedes state bans. / BuzzFeed News Related: Such emergency conditions include "ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss, or emergent hypertensive disorders, such
The world's population will reach eight billion in November, with India likely to surpass China in 2023 as the world's most populous nation. / Quartz A round-up of significant events that happened in China last week. / Twitter The US census is flawed. One answer? Expand the House
The world's population will reach eight billion in November, with India likely to surpass China in 2023 as the world's most populous nation. / Quartz A round-up of significant events that happened in China last week. / Twitter The US census is flawed. One answer? Expand the House
Biden signs a mostly noncommittal executive order on abortion access, and tells women it's up to them to vote for representatives who will protect abortion rights. / The 19th Ana Marie Cox on why it's time to make Democratic leadership fear voters. / The New York Times In
Biden signs a mostly noncommittal executive order on abortion access, and tells women it's up to them to vote for representatives who will protect abortion rights. / The 19th Ana Marie Cox on why it's time to make Democratic leadership fear voters. / The New York Times In
Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe is assassinated while campaigning, killed reportedly with a homemade gun. / NPR, The Guardian There were 10 shooting incidents in Japan last year, leaving one person dead and four wounded. / Bloomberg Around 2,000 migrants in Morocco attempt to cross into a Spanish
Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe is assassinated while campaigning. He was killed reportedly with a homemade gun. / NPR, The Guardian There were 10 shooting incidents in Japan last year, leaving one person dead and four wounded. / Bloomberg Around 2,000 migrants in Morocco attempt to cross into
Following mass resignations by his party, Boris Johnson finally announces he'll resign as prime minister—but wants to stay on until a successor is chosen. / Vox See also: A laundry list of the major scandals from Boris Johnson's three-year premiership. / Reuters Here are the most likely
Following mass resignations by his party, Boris Johnson finally announces he'll resign as prime minister—but wants to stay on until a successor is chosen. / Vox See also: A laundry list of the major scandals from Boris Johnson's three-year premiership. / Reuters Here are the most likely
Millions battle flooding and overflowing sewers in Mumbai as monsoon rains, exacerbated by climate change, lash the city. / BBC News More than 60 million people in central states and the Southwest are under heat alerts. / The Washington Post See also: Political topics to watch for in the news in the
Millions battle flooding and overflowing sewers in Mumbai as monsoon rains, exacerbated by climate change, lash the city. / BBC News More than 60 million people in central states and the Southwest are under heat alerts. / The Washington Post See also: Political topics to watch for in the news in the
Six people were murdered and two dozen more were injured in a mass shooting at yesterday's Highland Park Independence Day parade. / Chicago Tribune The specter of civil war has long been used in American politics to stoke fear and avoid addressing citizens' grievances. / The New Statesman "
Six people were murdered and two dozen more were injured in a mass shooting at yesterday's Highland Park Independence Day parade. / Chicago Tribune The specter of civil war has long been used in American politics to stoke fear and avoid addressing citizens' grievances. / The New Statesman "
TMN will be off for the Fourth of July, and we'll see you again on Tuesday. Despite the Supreme Court decision limiting the EPA on greenhouse gasses, officials still have ways to address climate change—that may spawn more lawsuits. / The New York Times The Supreme Court'
TMN will be off for the Fourth of July, and we'll see you again on Tuesday. Despite the Supreme Court decision limiting the EPA on greenhouse gasses, officials still have ways to address climate change—that may spawn more lawsuits. / The New York Times The Supreme Court'
The Department of Health and Human Services plans to release 296,000 doses of monkeypox vaccine in the coming weeks. / NPR A roundup of data on the rise and spread of the BA.5 Covid subvariant: what we know, where it's gaining, and how to defend against it.
The Department of Health and Human Services plans to release 296,000 doses of monkeypox vaccine in the coming weeks. / NPR A roundup of data on the rise and spread of the BA.5 Covid subvariant—what we know, where it's gaining, and how to defend against it.
A federal court allows Tennessee's six-week abortion ban to go into effect, as challenges to post-Roe restrictions reach courthouses in multiple US states. / Associated Press Related: A Texas judge has blocked the state's abortion ban enacted last year, allowing many clinics to resume services ahead of
A federal court allows Tennessee's six-week abortion ban to go into effect, as challenges to post-Roe restrictions reach courthouses in multiple US states. / Associated Press Related: A Texas judge has blocked the state's abortion ban enacted last year, allowing many clinics to resume services ahead of
Brittney Griner will stand trial Friday on cannabis possession charges, more than four months after her Moscow arrest. / The Associated Press What we know on day 124 of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. / The Guardian At least 46 people are found dead inside of a semi-truck in San Antonio.
Are LGBT rights and contraception next in the Supreme Court's crosshairs? Perhaps, but more likely targets are affirmative action, election laws, and business regulation. / The New York Times "Somebody who doesn't even know me took my options away from me, and it makes me furious.
Are LGBT rights and contraception next in the Supreme Court's crosshairs? Perhaps, but more likely targets are affirmative action, election laws, and business regulation. / The New York Times "Somebody who doesn't even know me took my options away from me, and it makes me furious.
This morning, Biden signed the gun-safety bill into law—the first major gun legislation in 30 years. Here's what's included in the bill. / NPR, CNN An annotated version of the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson, the case that overturned Roe v. Wade
This morning, Biden signed the gun-safety bill into law—the first major gun legislation in 30 years. Here's what's included in the bill. / NPR, CNN An annotated version of the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson, the case that overturned Roe v. Wade
As the US Senate passes a gun control bill, the Supreme Court says Americans don't need a license to carry guns in public. / NPR, The Los Angeles Times Meanwhile, war fatigue in the West may doom Ukraine to "slow strangulation." / The Guardian The UN's
As the US Senate passes a gun control bill, the Supreme Court says Americans don't need a license to carry guns in public. / NPR, The Los Angeles Times Meanwhile, war fatigue in the West may doom Ukraine to "slow strangulation." / The Guardian The UN's
The Supreme Court just struck down New York's law requiring people have "proper cause" to carry a concealed weapon. / Axios Checking the "good guy with a gun" theory: In 22 of 433 shooting attacks, a bystander shot the perpetrator. / The New York Times "
The Supreme Court just struck down New York's law requiring people have "proper cause" to carry a concealed weapon. / Axios Checking the "good guy with a gun" theory: In 22 of 433 shooting attacks, a bystander shot the perpetrator. / The New York Times "
An earthquake in Afghanistan, the deadliest in decades, kills at least a thousand people. / The Associated Press Border-crossing data show a steady flow of Ukranian refugees returning to their country. / The Economist Interview with a Ukrainian software engineer on what it's like to live with air raid sirens,
An earthquake in Afghanistan, the deadliest in decades, kills at least a thousand people. / The Associated Press Border-crossing data show a steady flow of Ukrainian refugees returning to their country. / The Economist Interview with a Ukrainian software engineer about what it's like to live with air raid sirens,
The Kremlin says the Geneva Conventions would not apply to the two Americans thought to have been captured while fighting for Ukraine. / CBS News A heartbreaking, infuriating examination of the footage showing Uvalde law enforcement's inaction on May 24 at Robb Elementary. / The Texas Tribune Related: Families of
The Kremlin says the Geneva Conventions would not apply to the two Americans thought to have been captured while fighting for Ukraine. / CBS News A heartbreaking, infuriating examination of the footage showing Uvalde law enforcement's inaction on May 24 at Robb Elementary. / The Texas Tribune Related: Families of
TMN will resume publishing on Tuesday. Have a good weekend. Susan B. Glasser summarizes what we've learned so far about Trump, Pence, and the January 6th mob. / The New Yorker A round-up of what happened in the Russia-Ukraine war this week. / The Guardian A breakdown of the sophisticated
TMN will resume publishing on Tuesday. Have a good weekend. Susan B. Glasser summarizes what we've learned so far about Trump, Pence, and the January 6th mob. / The New Yorker A summary of what happened in the Russia-Ukraine war this week. / The Guardian Interesting breakdown of the sophisticated
New research findings show people infected with the omicron variant, compared to those who caught delta, are around half as likely to develop long Covid. / NPR See also: Long-term Covid infections give the virus more time for recombination—which it can use to spawn new variants. / Nature Following yesterday'
New research findings show people infected with the omicron variant, compared to those who caught delta, are around half as likely to develop long Covid. / NPR See also: Long-term Covid infections give the virus more time for recombination—which it can use to spawn new variants. / Nature Following yesterday'
The Federal Reserve raises its benchmark interest rate by 0.75%, the biggest increase since 1994. Five things to know about how it will affect you. / CNBC, The Conversation Consumer sentiment has declined by 14% since May, continuing a downward trend over the last year. / Surveys of Consumers GiveDirectly is
The Federal Reserve raises its benchmark interest rate by 0.75%, the biggest increase since 1994. Five things to know about how it will affect you. / CNBC, The Conversation Consumer sentiment has declined by 14% since May, continuing a downward trend over the last year. / Surveys of Consumers GiveDirectly is
According to a new study, more than 338,000 lives could have been saved from Covid if America had universal health care. / Scientific American For a glimpse of post-Roe life, look to Poland—abortions have been banned for 29 years and doctors still don't know the rules. / The
According to a new study, more than 338,000 lives could have been saved from Covid if America had universal health care. / Scientific American For a glimpse of post-Roe life, look to Poland—abortions have been banned for 29 years and doctors still don't know the rules. / The
What we know on day 111 of Russia's invasion: Zelenskiy calls the fighting in Sievierodonetsk "one of the most violent battles in Europe." / The Guardian Ukraine still has a chance of winning, although the scope of its victory "would most likely be limited." / Foreign
What we know on day 111 of Russia's invasion: Zelenskiy calls the fighting in Sievierodonetsk "one of the most violent battles in Europe." / The Guardian Ukraine still has a chance of winning, although the scope of its victory "would most likely be limited." / Foreign
Senators announced a promising new bipartisan gun law yesterday. Red-flag laws and the "boyfriend loophole" are included, but expanded background checks are not. / CNN Several members of Patriot Front from around the US descended on Coeur d'Alene this weekend with a drawn-up plan for disrupting a
Senators announced a promising new bipartisan gun law yesterday. Red-flag laws and the "boyfriend loophole" are included, but expanded background checks are not. / CNN Several members of Patriot Front from around the US descended on Coeur d'Alene this weekend with a drawn-up plan for disrupting a
Inflation increased 8.6% last month, the highest since 1981, and shelter costs reached their fastest 12-month gain since 1991. / CNBC Related: Average gas prices in the US have also now reached $5 for the first time. / NPR See also: "OPEC is a price-fixing conspiracy by 13 oil-producing countries.
Inflation increased 8.6% last month, the highest since 1981, and shelter costs reached their fastest 12-month gain since 1991. / CNBC Related: Average gas prices in the US have also now reached $5 for the first time. / NPR See also: "OPEC is a price-fixing conspiracy by 13 oil-producing countries.
The number of African migrants trying to make it to the US southern border may soon hit a record high. (By 2050, 86 million Africans will be displaced because of climate events.) / Bloomberg For the first time, microplastics have been found in freshly fallen Antarctic snow. / BBC News Six takeaways
For the first time, microplastics have been found in freshly fallen Antarctic snow. / BBC News The number of African migrants trying to make it to the US southern border may soon hit a record high. (By 2050, 86 million Africans will be displaced because of climate events.) / Bloomberg Six takeaways
The House of Representatives committee investigating the January 6 riot holds its first first public hearing tonight. / The Associated Press A former president of ABC News is producing tonight's hearing "as if it were a blockbuster investigative special." (Unrelated? Newspapers can be woven into art.) / Axios,
The House of Representatives committee investigating January 6 holds its first first public hearing tonight. / The Associated Press A former president of ABC News is producing tonight's hearing "as if it were a blockbuster investigative special." (Unrelated: Newspapers can be woven into art.) / Axios, Colossal The
In yesterday's primaries, San Francisco voted to oust its progressive DA, Chesa Boudin, just over halfway through his four-year term. / San Francisco Chronicle Elsewhere, Republicans who voted to create the Jan. 6 Committee survived their primaries—a possible signal of Trump's waning influence over the party.
In yesterday's primaries, San Francisco voted to oust its progressive DA, Chesa Boudin, just over halfway through his four-year term. / San Francisco Chronicle Elsewhere, Republicans who voted to create the Jan. 6 Committee survived their primaries—a possible signal of Trump's waning influence over the party.
Boris Johnson remains the United Kingdom's Prime Minister despite 148 of his MPs voting to oust him. / The Guardian Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky says the country has lost too many to "simply cede our territory." / BBC News Tick-tock reporting of the 2021 attack on Mozambique&
Boris Johnson remains the United Kingdom's Prime Minister despite 148 of his MPs voting to oust him. / The Guardian Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky says the country has lost too many to "simply cede our territory." / BBC News Tick-tock reporting of the 2021 attack on Mozambique&
Russia has restarted its attacks on Kyiv, launching missles into the city for the first time in more than a month. / Reuters According to US officials, Russia is trying to sell up to a half-million tons of grain it stole in Ukraine—possibly to countries facing possible famine. / The New
Russia has restarted its attacks on Kyiv, launching missles into the city for the first time in more than a month. / Reuters According to US officials, Russia is trying to sell up to a half-million tons of grain it stole in Ukraine—possibly to countries facing possible famine. / The New
This week in the Russia-Ukraine war: assessing 100 days of an invasion that is reshaping Europe. / The Guardian A recession in 2024 looks likely for the United States, and likely to be mild, but it will expose "glaring fragilities" around the world. / The Economist Microsoft says it will
A batch of Associated Press photographs, many harrowing, depict the Russian invasion of Ukraine at the 100-day mark. / The Associated Press President Biden urges Congress to work on gun control. Minutes later: another shooting. / Al Jazeera The US adds 390,000 jobs in May in another month of strong growth.
Beijing orders a $120 billion infrastructure push while China's economy slows. / China Macro Economy The White House forges closer ties to Taiwan through trade and supply chains. / MarketWatch A summary of recent progress on gun control that has—and hasn't—been made at various levels of
Beijing orders a $120 billion infrastructure push while China's economy slows. / China Macro Economy The White House forges closer ties to Taiwan through trade and supply chains. / MarketWatch A summary of recent progress on gun control that has—and hasn't—been made at various levels of
Shanghai eases its two-month Covid-19 lockdown for 25 million residents. / BBC News Americans who catch Covid abroad are using a backdoor to get home: flying to Canada or Mexico, then crossing a land border. / The New York Times Helen Branswell interviews a WHO official on the challenges of responding to
Shanghai eases its two-month Covid-19 lockdown for 25 million residents. / BBC News Americans who catch Covid abroad are using a backdoor to get home: flying to Canada or Mexico, then crossing a land border. / The New York Times Helen Branswell interviews a WHO official on the challenges of responding to
"The science is clear: Gun control saves lives." / Scientific American This week, the cruel irony of Texas Republicans' chant that they're "protecting children" has never been so grotesque. / Texas Monthly More from the hypocrisy desk: "If these leaders were truly worried about
"The science is clear: Gun control saves lives." / Scientific American This week, the cruel irony of Texas Republicans' chant that they're "protecting children" has never been so grotesque. / Texas Monthly More from the hypocrisy desk: "If these leaders were truly worried about
Texas Governor Abbott cancels his appearance at today’s NRA meeting in Houston. / CNN More than a quarter of a million people died in Somalia's 2011 famine, most of them children. This year is looking to be the same. / Reuters The Supreme Court blocks a request from Louisiana
Texas Governor Abbott cancels his appearance at today's NRA meeting in Houston. / CNN More than a quarter of a million people died in Somalia's 2011 famine, most of them children. This year is looking to be the same. / Reuters The Supreme Court blocks a request from
"Layla, 10, liked dancing to TikToks, won six races at the school's field day, and loved to swim." These are the victims of the Uvalde school shooting. / BuzzFeed News The Uvalde school district had recently doubled its security budget, which included enhanced safety protocols, new monitoring
"Layla, 10, liked dancing to TikToks, won six races at the school's field day, and loved to swim." These are the victims of the Uvalde school shooting. / BuzzFeed News The Uvalde school district had recently doubled its security budget, which included enhanced safety protocols, new monitoring
On day 91 of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, President Putin's military campaign enters its most active phase. / The Guardian The European Union bends to Putin's demands and gives companies permission to buy gas in rubles. / Al Jazeera Five takeaways from yesterday's primaries
Hacked files from Xinjiang reveal new evidence of abuse of Uyghurs at detention camps, including a shoot-to-kill policy for escapees. / Bloomberg From 1825 to the present day, France and the US have bilked Haiti's economy out of billions of dollars. / The New York Times According to a study,
Hacked files from Xinjiang reveal new evidence of abuse of Uyghurs at detention camps, including a shoot-to-kill policy for escapees. / Bloomberg From 1825 to the present day, France and the US have bilked Haiti's economy out of billions of dollars. / The New York Times According to a study,
A Ukrainian photographer documented the siege of the Azovstal steel works. Before his capture by Russia, he put his pictures online to be shared. / The Guardian Russia bans 963 Americans from entering, including President Biden and Mark Zuckerberg, though not Obama or Trump. / USA Today Biden says he'll
A Ukrainian photographer documented the siege of the Azovstal steel works. Before his capture by Russia, he put his pictures online to be shared. / The Guardian Russia bans 963 Americans, including President Biden and Mark Zuckerberg, though not Obama or Trump. / USA Today Biden says he'll defend Taiwan
Pennsylvania's Republican primary for Senate is likely headed for a statewide recount. / The Associated Press An interactive record of proposed redistricting maps shows whether they'll benefit Democrats or Republicans in the midterms. / FiveThirtyEight A roundup of recent bills that passed (or failed) in the House or
Pennsylvania's Republican primary for Senate is likely headed to a statewide recount. / The Associated Press An interactive record of proposed redistricting maps shows whether they'll benefit Democrats or Republicans in the midterms. / FiveThirtyEight A roundup of recent bills that passed (or failed) in the House or
Stunning video by a Ukrainian medic who recorded her time in Maripol—before she was captured by Russian troops. / Associated Press See also: A visual investigation of video evidence shows a group of Ukrainian men were in the custody of Russian soldiers before being executed. / The New York Times Related:
Stunning video by a Ukrainian medic who recorded her time in Maripol—before she was captured by Russian troops. / Associated Press See also: A visual investigation of video evidence shows a group of Ukrainian men were in the custody of Russian soldiers before being executed. / The New York Times Related:
Here is one possible future for Covid-19: some people get reinfected many times, and a few experience symptoms for months or years. / The New York Times This op-ed is dully written but ultimately correct: when we discuss long Covid, we need to include medicine's uncertainty about it. / STAT
Here is one possible future for Covid-19: some people get reinfected many times, and a few experience symptoms for months or years. / The New York Times When we discuss long Covid, we need to include medicine's uncertainty about it. / STAT Related: A comic about health data and the
A 10-year project finds, compared to those who received care, women denied abortions suffer more economically and mentally. / NPR Awareness of abortion medication remains dangerously low—and as recently as 2017, most people trying to end pregnancies on their own did so without pills. / The 19th A Michigan judge has
A 10-year project finds, compared to those who received care, women denied abortions suffer more economically and mentally. / NPR Awareness of abortion medication remains dangerously low—and as recently as 2017, most people trying to end pregnancies on their own did so without pills. / The 19th A Michigan judge has
David Leonhardt: The American political right has a violence problem "that has no equivalent on the left." / The New York Times Exploring domestic extremist-related killings by perpetrator affiliation, 2012-2021. / The Anti-Defamation League Seven things to watch in today's primaries across Idaho, Kentucky, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and
David Leonhardt: The American political right has a violence problem with no equivalent on the left. / The New York Times Exploring domestic extremist-related killings by perpetrator affiliation, 2012-2021. / The Anti-Defamation League Seven things to watch in today's primaries in Idaho, Kentucky, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Oregon. / Politico Unrelated:
"A hero in our eyes." These are the people who were murdered at a Buffalo supermarket on Saturday. / The Buffalo News The shooting suspect wrote a document invoking the "great replacement theory," the once-fringe, now-popular racist refrain in conservative media. / The Washington Post See also: A
"A hero in our eyes." These are the people who were murdered at a Buffalo supermarket on Saturday. / The Buffalo News The shooting suspect wrote a document invoking the "great replacement theory," the once-fringe, now-popular racist refrain in conservative media. / The Washington Post See also: A
Ukraine says Russian troops are retreating from Kharkiv. / The Guardian With more than three million refugees to inform, a Polish news agency is now reporting and publishing in Ukrainian. / Nieman Journalism Lab "This ... reaffirms the stories we all grew up with." In an investigation into US Indian boarding
Ukraine says Russian troops are retreating from Kharkiv. / The Guardian With more than three million refugees to inform, a Polish news agency is now reporting and publishing in Ukrainian. / Nieman Journalism Lab "This ... reaffirms the stories we all grew up with." In an investigation into US Indian boarding
Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskiy reiterates his offer to hold direct talks with Vladimir Putin. / The Guardian Why does Russia fear Sweden and Finland joining NATO? For one thing, it would mean "tightening the strategic Nordic grip" on the Baltic Sea. / The Associated Press The global scramble for metals—
Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskiy reiterates his offer to hold direct talks with Vladimir Putin. / The Guardian Why does Russia fear Sweden and Finland joining NATO? For one thing, it would mean "tightening the strategic Nordic grip" on the Baltic Sea. / The Associated Press The global scramble for metals—
In its first war-crimes trial, Ukraine will try a captured Russian soldier accused of killing a civilian. / NPR Finland's leaders are in favor of dropping the nation's neutral status, and apply for NATO membership "without delay." / Associated Press "She left her cellphone behind
In its first war-crimes trial, Ukraine will try a captured Russian soldier accused of killing a civilian. / NPR Finland's leaders are in favor of dropping the nation's neutral status, and apply for NATO membership "without delay." / Associated Press "She left her cellphone behind
Fossil fuel companies are quietly planning multiple projects that function as multibillion-dollar bets "against humanity halting global heating." / The Guardian Republican states like Utah and South Carolina pass clean energy bills in the name of freedom and economics. / Grist Five indicators suggest Anglophone countries are suffering the most
Fossil fuel companies are quietly planning multiple projects that function as multibillion-dollar bets "against humanity halting global heating." / The Guardian Republican states like Utah and South Carolina pass clean energy bills in the name of freedom and economics. / Grist Five indicators suggest Anglophone countries are suffering the most
A look at how much of Ukraine is now held by Russia, and where the conflict now stands. / The New York Times The UN says Ukraine's civilian deaths may be far higher than the official toll of 3,381. / The Guardian Ukraine's volunteer IT Army has
A look at how much of Ukraine is now held by Russia, and where the conflict now stands. / The New York Times The UN says Ukraine's civilian deaths may be far higher than the official toll of 3,381. / The Guardian Ukraine's volunteer IT Army has
New leaks at the Supreme Court say the five jurists opposing Roe are holding steady, despite Chief Justice Roberts trying to pull them away. / The Washington Post NPR's Nina Totenberg says the most likely source of the original leak is a conservative clerk who's afraid of
New leaks at the Supreme Court say the five jurists opposing Roe are holding steady, despite Chief Justice Roberts trying to pull them away. / The Washington Post NPR's Nina Totenberg says the most likely source of the original leak is a conservative clerk who's afraid of
Two months into the invasion, no one knows how many Ukrainian civilians have died, mainly due to the ferocity of Russia's attack. / New Lines Millions of Russians are using VPNs to communicate with the outside world. / Yahoo! News Newly released documents shed fresh light on NATO's
Two months into the invasion, no one knows how many Ukrainian civilians have died, mainly due to the ferocity of Russia's attack. / New/Lines Millions of Russians are using VPNs to communicate with the outside world. / Yahoo! News Newly released documents shed fresh light on NATO's
"Mailed pills are hard to police. That has not stopped [states] from trying." If Roe falls, abortion pills are the next target. / The Washington Post Even though Louisiana has a trigger law to criminalize abortion if Roe is overturned, lawmakers are pursuing a bill to make abortion a
"Mailed pills are hard to police. That has not stopped [states] from trying." If Roe falls, abortion pills are the next target. / The Washington Post Even though Louisiana has a trigger law to criminalize abortion if Roe is overturned, lawmakers are pursuing a bill to make abortion a
The Federal Reserve approves a rare half-percentage-point interest rate increase to fight inflation. / CNBC To manage pandemic-related economic fallout, Sri Lanka switched to organic farming. The result is "ongoing catastrophe." / Foreign Policy For your weekly soothe, a 24-hour time-lapse video filmed at a polar station in northern Norway.
The Federal Reserve approves a rare half-percentage-point interest rate increase to fight inflation. / CNBC To manage pandemic economic fallout, Sri Lanka switched to organic farming. The result is "ongoing catastrophe." / Foreign Policy For your weekly soothe, a 24-hour time-lapse video filmed at a polar station in northern Norway.
"In the US, the rights of many marginalized groups are tied to the legal precedents established in the fight for abortion rights." Alito's plan to repeal the 20th century. / The Atlantic In fact, leaks do frequently emerge from the modern Supreme Court, including for the original
"In the US, the rights of many marginalized groups are tied to the legal precedents established in the fight for abortion rights." Alito's plan to repeal the 20th century. / The Atlantic In fact, leaks do frequently emerge from the modern Supreme Court, including for the original
The Supreme Court plans to strike down Roe v. Wade according to a draft of the decision—the first to be leaked in the modern era while a case is still pending. / Politico According to the National Catholic Register, if the decision holds in July, more than a dozen states
The Supreme Court plans to strike down Roe v. Wade according to a draft of the decision—the first draft to be leaked in the modern era while a case is still pending. / Politico If the decision holds this summer, more than a dozen states plan to immediately outlaw abortion.
Long lines and rationing at gas stations in Ukraine may signal the start of a fuel crisis. / The New York Times Russian troops have stolen nearly $5 million in farm equipment and sent it to Chechnya—where it was learned all the machinery had been locked remotely. / CNN Over the
Long lines and rationing at gas stations in Ukraine may signal the start of a fuel crisis. / The New York Times Russian troops have stolen nearly $5 million in farm equipment and sent it to Chechnya—where it was learned all the machinery had been locked remotely. / CNN Over the
Charts explain why, for the first time since early 2020, the US economy shrank. / The Washington Post Who's to blame for the recent uptick in robocalls? Ajit Pai didn't help the situation, but the true culprits are the carriers. / Slate The FDA proposes banning menthol tobacco
Charts explain why, for the first time since early 2020, the US economy shrank. / The Washington Post Who's to blame for the recent uptick in robocalls? Ajit Pai didn't help the situation, but the true culprits are the carriers. / Slate The FDA proposes banning menthol tobacco
Moscow confirms it carried out an airstrike on Kyiv during a visit by the UN secretary general. / The Guardian Since Russia invaded Ukraine, the country has faced an unprecedented barrage of hacking. / WIRED President Biden asks Congress to authorize $33 billion to support Ukraine. / BBC News Bernie Sanders wants Democrats
Moscow confirms it carried out an airstrike on Kyiv during a visit by the UN secretary general. / The Guardian Since Russia invaded Ukraine, the country has faced an unprecedented barrage of hacking. / WIRED President Biden asks Congress to authorize $33 billion to support Ukraine. / BBC News Bernie Sanders wants Democrats
Fauci says even though the pandemic is still active, we may now have entered a "transition phase" that may hopefully lead to fewer disruptions. / CNN Moderna has asked the FDA to authorize the first Covid vaccine manufactured for children under the age of six. / NPR Russia halts gas
Fauci says even though the pandemic is still active, we may now have entered a "transition phase" that may hopefully lead to fewer disruptions. / CNN Moderna has asked the FDA to authorize the first Covid vaccine manufactured for children under the age of six. / NPR Russia halts gas
Helen Branswell: Vaccine experts are worried the US is sleepwalking into annual Covid-19 boosters without evidence they're needed. / STAT As of the end of February, nearly 60 percent of Americans have been infected with the coronavirus, including three out of four children. / Poynter Reports from the Coachella Valley&
Helen Branswell: Vaccine experts are worried the US is sleepwalking into annual Covid-19 boosters without evidence they're needed. / STAT As of the end of February, nearly 60 percent of Americans have been infected with the coronavirus, including three out of four children. / Poynter Reports from the Coachella Valley
In the first clemency grants of his presidency, Biden pardons three and commutes sentences for 75 serving sentences for non-violent drug offenses. / Axios New reports show more countries are now working on anti-satellite and other "counter-space" weaponry. / WIRED "If enforcing abortion bans is hard, that might encourage
In the first clemency grants of his presidency, Biden pardons three and commutes sentences for 75 serving sentences for non-violent drug offenses. / Axios New reports show more countries are now working on anti-satellite and other "counter-space" weaponry. / WIRED "If enforcing abortion bans is hard, that might encourage
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says he wants to see Russia weakened to a point of being unable to invade its neighbors. / BBC News The US plans to reopen its embassy in Kyiv. / Haaretz Why doesn't the whole world stand against Russia? Rising food prices and a history of
Defense Secretary Austin says he wants to see Russia weakened to a point of being unable to invade its neighbors. / BBC News The US plans to reopen its embassy in Kyiv. / Haaretz Why doesn't the world stand united against Russia? Rising food prices and a history of Western
More than a million children in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi have received at least one dose of the first anti-malaria vaccine. / France24 Turkey makes a broad push into Africa in search of markets, resources, and diplomatic influence. / The Economist Recent floods that ravaged South Africa made for one of the
More than a million children in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi have received at least one dose of the first anti-malaria vaccine. / France24 Turkey makes a broad push into Africa in search of markets, resources, and diplomatic influence. / The Economist Recent floods that ravaged South Africa made for one of the
Satellite photos near Mariupol show what appear to be mass graves that Ukrainians say may hold 9,000 bodies. / Associated Press Relatives of crewmen missing after the sinking of Russia's flagship have come forward publicly to demand answers from the government. / The New York Times According to the
Satellite photos near Mariupol show what appear to be mass graves that Ukrainians say may hold 9,000 bodies. / Associated Press Relatives of crewmen missing after the sinking of Russia's flagship have come forward publicly to demand answers from the government. / The New York Times According to the
Vladimir Putin claims victory in the port city of Mariupol, declaring it "liberated" after nearly two months of siege. / Reuters David Herszenhorn: Western allies’ additional help for Ukraine may be too little, too late. / Politico Europe Mystery clouds the case of Brittney Griner in Moscow, “easily the most
Vladimir Putin claims victory in the port city of Mariupol, declaring it "liberated" after nearly two months of siege. / Reuters David Herszenhorn: Western allies' extra help for Ukraine may be too little, too late. / Politico Europe Mystery clouds the case of Brittney Griner in Moscow, "easily
Kreminna, in eastern Ukraine, is the first city in the Donbas region that appears to have been captured by Russian forces. / Al Jazeera Claims of tanks' obsolescence have circulated since WWI, yet—except in the hands of Russia—they can still dominate battlefields. / VICE "I bet Russian satellites
Kreminna, in eastern Ukraine, is the first city in the Donbas region that appears to have been captured by Russian forces. / Al Jazeera Claims of tanks' obsolescence have circulated since WWI, yet—except in the hands of Russia—they can still dominate battlefields. / VICE "I bet Russian satellites
The story of a wedding between two Ukrainian soldiers: "We had a night off but returned to the site we guard." / New York Magazine What we know on day 55 of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. / The Guardian A Ukrainian man tracks the redeployment of Russian troops
Three mass shootings in the US over the holiday weekend left two dead and at least 31 wounded. / Associated Press Infowars and two other companies owned by Alex Jones have filed for bankruptcy, after several defamation lawsuits. / CBS News Florida rejected 41%—a state record—of math textbooks for its
Three mass shootings in the US over the holiday weekend left two dead and at least 31 wounded. / Associated Press Infowars and two other companies owned by Alex Jones have filed for bankruptcy, after several defamation lawsuits. / CBS News Florida rejected 41%—a state record—of math textbooks for its
Ukraine is using facial recognition on dead Russians to contact their families—some experts deem it "classic psychological warfare" and worry it could backfire. / The Washington Post Taiwan is top of mind when we talk about US-China relations now, yet those discussions elude easy Cold War metaphors. / Dissent
Ukraine is using facial recognition on dead Russians to contact their families—some experts deem it "classic psychological warfare" and worry it could backfire. / The Washington Post Taiwan is top of mind when we talk about US-China relations now, yet those discussions elude easy Cold War metaphors. / Dissent
Russia formally warns the United States of "unpredictable consequences" if Washington continues to arm Ukraine. / Reuters In France's presidential contest, Marine Le Pen is said to find her strongest support in places that embrace middlebrow Americana / UnHerd A proposal in London would send migrants seeking asylum
Russia formally warns the United States of "unpredictable consequences" if Washington continues to arm Ukraine. / Reuters In France's presidential contest, Marine Le Pen is said to find her strongest support in places that embrace middlebrow Americana / UnHerd A proposal in London would send migrants seeking asylum
Maps show the Russian military has entered the center of Mariupol, after a siege that's lasted more than 40 days. / The New York Times This week, Kentucky lawmakers overrode the governor's veto of a bill that effectively ends abortion access, and Oklahoma's governor signed
Maps show the Russian military has entered the center of Mariupol, after a siege that's lasted more than 40 days. / The New York Times This week, Kentucky lawmakers overrode the governor's veto of a bill that effectively ends abortion access, and Oklahoma's governor signed
The world surpasses half a billion known cases of the novel coronavirus, but it's most likely an undercount. / Axios According to Merriam-Webster, "Covid-19" was the fastest term ever to be accepted in the dictionary. / The Los Angeles Review of Books Millions of people in Shanghai are
The world passes half a billion known cases of the novel coronavirus, but it's most likely an undercount. / Axios According to Merriam-Webster, "Covid-19" is the fastest term ever to be accepted in the dictionary. / The Los Angeles Review of Books Millions of people in Shanghai are
Putin's war in Ukraine has spurred Finland and Sweden to push for NATO membership. / The Washington Post Experts say there's little evidence—so far, at least—to show Russia used chemical weapons in Mariupol. / The Guardian "I never understood how people got so moved by
Putin's war in Ukraine has spurred Finland and Sweden to push for NATO membership. / The Washington Post Experts say there's little evidence—so far, at least—to show Russia used chemical weapons in Mariupol. / The Guardian "I never understood how people got so moved by
The White House is worried over Marine Le Pen, a Putin sympathizer, possibly winning France's presidential election. / POLITICO See also: Macron and Le Pen have advanced in the first round of voting in France, and will enter an April 24 runoff for the presidency. / CBS News British prime
The White House is worried over Marine Le Pen, a Putin sympathizer, possibly winning France's presidential election. / POLITICO See also: Macron and Le Pen have advanced in the first round of voting in France, and will enter an April 24 runoff for the presidency. / CBS News British prime
With today's conclusion of the 2022 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes, your TMN editors really need to take a nap. This newsletter will resume publishing Monday, April 11. Declassified intelligence suggests Russia's Vladimir Putin is being given less than truthful information from his advisers.
With today's conclusion of the 2022 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes, your TMN editors really need to take a nap. This newsletter will resume publishing on Monday, April 11. Declassified intelligence says Russia's Vladimir Putin is being given less than truthful information from his
We had a link error in yesterday's newsletter regarding the story about Covid-19 deaths in red and blue states. Here's the proper link. Residents in half of Shanghai brace for the second phase of a citywide lockdown. / The Guardian Three-quarters of children worldwide who experienced the
We had a link error yesterday regarding the story about Covid-19 deaths in different states. Here's the proper link. Residents in Shanghai brace for the second phase of a citywide lockdown. / The Guardian Three-quarters of children worldwide who experienced the death of a parent during the pandemic lost
Russia says it will "fundamentally cut back military activity in the direction of Kyiv and Chernihiv" prior to peace talks in Turkey. / The Guardian G7 countries agree to ignore Moscow's demand to pay for Russian natural gas in rubles. / PBS Headline of the week (darkly): "
Russia says it will "fundamentally cut back military activity in the direction of Kyiv and Chernihiv" prior to peace talks in Turkey. / The Guardian G7 countriesagree to ignore Moscow's demand to pay for Russian natural gas in rubles. / PBS Headline of the week (darkly): "Holocaust
Ukraine and Russian officials prepare to meet in Turkey for peace talks. / Reuters Meanwhile, Ukraine says it won't open humanitarian corridors from its cities due to warnings of Russian "provocations" on routes. / BBC News Vladimir Putin's cult of war is a mix of "
Ukraine and Russian officials prepare to meet in Turkey this week for peace talks. / Reuters Meanwhile, Ukraine says it won't open humanitarian corridors from its cities due to warnings of Russian "provocations" on routes. / BBC News Vladimir Putin's cult of war is a mix
US President Biden holds a meeting in Warsaw with Ukrainian foreign and defense ministers. Meanwhile, Russia scales back its war goals. / BBC News, Reuters Svyatoslav Vakarchuk, Ukraine's top rock star, is performing in bomb shelters and stations filled with refugees. / The Guardian Ideally, the war in Ukraine unleashes
US President Biden holds a meeting in Warsaw with Ukrainian foreign and defense ministers. Meanwhile, Russia scales back its war goals. / BBC News, Reuters Svyatoslav Vakarchuk, a Ukrainian rock star, is performing in bomb shelters and stations filled with refugees. / The Guardian Ideally, the war in Ukraine unleashes demand for
The United States and the European Union announce a landmark gas deal, in an attempt to cut Europe's reliance on Russian energy. / BBC News US volunteers have been seen fighting on the frontlines in Ukraine. / The Guardian See also: "Inside Ukraine's army of misfits, veterans,
The United States and the European Union announce a landmark gas deal, in an attempt to cut Europe's reliance on Russian energy. / BBC News US volunteers are spotted fighting on the frontlines in Ukraine. / The Guardian See also: "Inside Ukraine's army of misfits, veterans, and
The latest version of the coronavirus, BA.2, now accounts for as much as 70 percent of new infections in many parts of the United States. / Kaiser Health News New Covid trial results may point toward quicker, cheaper ways to study medicines. / STAT Alex Tabarrok: Operation Warp Speed was a
The latest version of the coronavirus, BA.2, accounts for as much as 70 percent of new infections in many parts of the United States. / Kaiser Health News New Covid-19trial results may point toward quicker, cheaper ways to study medicines. / STAT Alex Tabarrok: Operation Warp Speed was a huge success,
Russia's combat power in Ukraine is said (by the United States) to have declined below 90% of its pre-invasion levels. / The Guardian Joel Simon: For journalists, Ukraine is all about Whats App, Signal, and Telegram. / The Columbia Journalism Review A Russian philosopher asks what everyday Russians are responsible
Russia's combat power in Ukraine is said (by the United States) to have declined below 90% of its pre-invasion levels. / The Guardian Joel Simon: For journalists, Ukraine is all about Whats App, Signal, and Telegram. / The Columbia Journalism Review A Russian philosopher asks what everyday Russians are responsible
Russian advances in Ukraine grind to a halt in some areas, with Ukrainian forces holding out in several cities. / BBC News Gay Ukranian soldiers discuss fighting in part from a fear of "Russian repression." / Openly "If plan A doesn't work, and it hasn't,
Russian advances in Ukraine grind to a halt in some areas, with Ukrainian forces holding out in several cities. / BBC News Gay Ukranian soldiers discuss fighting in part from a fear of "Russian repression." / Openly "If plan A doesn't work, and it hasn't,
Ukrainian officials reject a Russian demand to abandon the besieged port city of Mariupol, where "death is everywhere." / The Associated Press Zelenskiy: Russia's destruction of Mariupol is "a terror that will be remembered for centuries to come." / Reuters The last journalists in Mariupol explain
Ukrainian officials reject a Russian demand to abandon the besieged port city of Mariupol, where "death is everywhere." / The Associated Press Zelenskiy: Russia's destruction of Mariupol is a terror that will be "remembered for centuries to come." / Reuters The last journalists in Mariupol explain
President Biden's tense call on Friday with Chinese President Jinping is seen as a pivot point in the two countries' relationship. / CNN Since 2012, Jinping has been gradually dismantling China's collective leadership system. Ukraine may unravel all of that. / Nikkei Asia See also: Fantasy worlds
President Joe Biden's tense call on Friday with Chinese President Xi Jinping is seen as a pivot point in the two countries' relationship. / CNN Since 2012, Jinping has been gradually dismantling China's collective leadership system. Ukraine may unravel all of that. / Nikkei Asia Unrelated/related:
A trio of drone incidents amplifies concerns that Russia's war may spill over into NATO countries, if unintentionally. / CNN Russia's attacks on Ukraine's hospitals are part of "a terrible wartime tradition." / Goats and Soda In countries friendly toward Putin, some people think
A trio of drone incidents amplifies concerns that Russia's war may spill over into NATO countries, if unintentionally. / CNN Russia's attacks on Ukraine's hospitals are part of "a terrible wartime tradition." / Goats and Soda In countries friendly toward Putin, some people think
Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia appear to be progressing. Meanwhile, Russia bombs a theater. / The Associated Press Dave Pell: "You gotta love the members who stood behind Trump when he blackmailed Zelensky on the topic of Ukraine defense weapons and who are standing for Zelensky and democracy today.
Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia appear to be progressing. Meanwhile, Russia bombs a theater. / Reuters, The Associated Press Dave Pell: "You gotta love the members who stood behind Trump when he blackmailed Zelensky on the topic of Ukraine defense weapons and who are standing for Zelensky and democracy
A list of companies, updated daily, that have left Russia, and those that continue to operate undeterred. / Yale School of Management Ukraine pays $215 to all workers who have lost their jobs due to the invasion. / The Economist What we know on day 21 of Russia's invasion of
A list of companies, updated daily, that have left Russia, and those that continue to operate undeterred. / Yale School of Management Ukraine pays $215 to all workers who have lost their jobs due to the attack. / The Economist What we know on day 21 of Russia's invasion of
The leaders of Poland, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic visit Kyiv to show support for the country. / The Associated Press The Kremlin urges state-friendly media outlets to use more Tucker Carlson clips. / Mother Jones Jane Ferguson: This war is incredibly tough to cover as a field reporter. / Twitter A 69-year-old
The leaders of Poland, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic visit Kyiv to show support for the country. / The Associated Press The Kremlin urges state-friendly media outlets to use more Tucker Carlson clips. / Mother Jones Jane Ferguson: This war is incredibly tough to cover as a field reporter. / Twitter A 69-year-old
US officials say Russia is running out of weaponry and has asked China for help. The United States says, "We will not allow that to go forward." / Axios, The Associated Press Russia hits a military base in Ukraine about 15 miles from the Polish border. / Reuters Keith Gessen
United States officials say Russia is running out of weaponry and has asked China for help. The US says, "We will not allow that to go forward." / Axios, The Associated Press Russia hits a military base in Ukraine about 15 miles from the Polish border. / Reuters Keith Gessen
Russian President Vladimir Putin wants foreign volunteers to fight against Ukrainian forces. / BBC News Moscow stalls the Iran nuclear deal, seeking to shield itself from the full effect of Western sanctions. / Foreign Policy Murtala Abdullahi explains the risks facing Nigeria from Russia's war. / HumAngle Natalia Datskevych: Russia'
Russian President Vladimir Putin wants foreign volunteers to fight against Ukrainian forces. / BBC News Moscow stalls the Iran nuclear deal, seeking to shield itself from the full effect of Western sanctions. / Foreign Policy Murtala Abdullahi explains the risks facing Nigeria from Russia's war. / HumAngle Natalia Datskevych: Russia'
An oral history of March 11, 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic "seemed to crystallize in the national consciousness." / WIRED Only two percent of Americans now live in counties with high Covid-19 levels. / Reuters Moscow wants to seize assets from businesses that have stopped operating in Russia. Its foreign
An oral history of March 11, 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic "seemed to crystallize in the national consciousness." / WIRED Only two percent of Americans now live in counties with high Covid-19 levels. / Reuters Moscow wants to seize assets from businesses that have stopped operating in Russia. Its foreign
Foreign ministers from Russia and Ukraine meet without any agreement on a cease-fire. / The Guardian Russia strikes a maternity and children's hospital. In the same city, people bury their dead in a large communal grave. / BBC News, The Associated Press While Russian artists fear being canceled, Ukrainian curators
Foreign ministers from Ukraine and Russia meet but can't reach an agreement on a cease-fire. / The Guardian Russia strikes a maternity and children's hospital. In the same city, people bury their dead in a large communal grave. / BBC News, The Associated Press While Russian artists fear
The US bans Russian oil imports in response to Russia's Ukraine invasion. Most Americans say they're willing to pay more for gas. / Quartz Farida Rustamova: How Russian officials and parliament members really feel about what's happening. / Faridaily McDonald's, Starbucks, and Coca-Cola suspend
The US bans Russian oil imports in response to the Ukraine invasion. Most Americans say they're willing to pay more for gas. / Quartz Farida Rustamova: How Russian officials and parliament members really feel about what's happening. / Faridaily McDonald's, Starbucks, and Coca-Cola suspend operations in
The United Nations’ refugee agency says more than 1.7 million Ukrainians fleeing Russia's invasion have so far crossed into Central Europe. / RadioFreeEurope Some humanitarian corridors are open, some are closed due to Russian shelling. / Deutsche Welle A lengthy explanation of the letter “Z” being embraced by Russians
The United Nations' refugee agency says more than 1.7 million Ukrainians have so far crossed into Central Europe. / RadioFreeEurope Some humanitarian corridors are open, some are closed due to Russian shelling. / Deutsche Welle An illustrated explanation of the letter "Z" being embraced by Russians and others
Ukraine says Russia's proposed evacuation routes for civilians—to Belarus or Russia—are immoral. / BBC News Edward Ongweso Jr. says sanctions targeting oligarchs are too broad—we should start seizing yachts, everybody's yachts. / VICE A sanctions scholar says Russia's economic isolation will have dramatic
Ukraine says Russia's proposed evacuation routes for civilians—to Belarus or Russia—are immoral. / BBC News Perhaps sanctions targeting oligarchs are too broad and we should start seizing yachts, everybody's yachts. / VICE A sanctions scholar says Russia's economic isolation will have dramatic repercussions for
Headline of the week? "In the nation's darkest hours, Ukrainians look out for each other." / The Kyiv Independent A Russian in Ukraine is unable to convince her parents back home that she's being shelled. / BBC News Related: "It's surreal to be
Headline of the week? "In the nation's darkest hours, Ukrainians look out for each other." / The Kyiv Independent A Russian in Ukraine is unable to convince her parents back home that she's being shelled. / BBC News Related: "It's surreal to be
A pair of legal developments suggest the Jan. 6 investigation is closing in on former President Trump's inner circle. / The Washington Post Former US Attorney General Bill Barr says he told Trump that his claims about election fraud were "bullshit." / The Hill Related: Merrick Garland'
A pair of legal developments suggest the Jan. 6 investigation is closing in on former President Trump's inner circle. / The Washington Post Former US Attorney General Bill Barr says he told Trump that his claims about election fraud were "bullshit." / The Hill Related: Merrick Garland'
Eight experts in public health discuss whether the pandemic is behind us. “For many in the United States: Probably.” / Vox Rachel Cohrs: Ending the pandemic is going to be a huge headache for the entire health care system. / STAT Russian attacks besiege key cities around Ukraine as war refugees hit
Eight experts in public health discuss whether the pandemic is behind us. "For many in the United States: Probably." / Vox Rachel Cohrs: Ending the pandemic is going to be a big headache for the entire health care system. / STAT Russian attacks besiege key cities around Ukraine as war
Russia attacks key Ukraine cities as invasion intensifies in its seventh day. / BBC News The city of Lviv, previously a hub for tourism, is now a hub for the internally displaced. / The Washington Post In Khakiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, "devastated buildings, failing electricity, and constant fear."
Russia attacks key cities in Ukraine as the invasion intensifies in its seventh day. / BBC News In Khakiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, "devastated buildings, failing electricity, and constant fear." / The New York Times The city of Lviv, previously a hub for tourism, is now a hub for
A summary of what's known on day six of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Much of the focus is on a Russian military column outside Kyiv that's 40 miles long. / The Guardian, CNN Some analysis from a Russia expert on how the invasion's
A summary of what's known on day six of the invasion of Ukraine. Much of the focus is on a Russian military column outside Kyiv that's 40 miles long. / The Guardian, CNN Some analysis from a Russia expert on how the invasion's first 96
The Russian military issues little in the way of reporting on the Ukraine war, suggesting things are not going as planned. / The Washington Post Did Russian state media accidentally publish an essay describing its fantasy Kyiv victory? / Twitter Masha Gessen spends a night in Moscow's last independent TV
The Russian military issues little in the way of reporting on the Ukraine war, suggesting things are not going as planned. / The Washington Post Did Russian state media accidentally publish an essay describing its fantasy of a Kyiv victory? / Twitter Masha Gessen spends a night in Moscow's last
Russian troops pour into Ukraine and launch missile strikes on major cities. Tracking the attack with maps. / BBC News Matthew C. Klein explains why Europe is at greater risk of Russian pressure than the other way around. / The Overshoot From 2012: "Putin is a Soviet person who did not
Russian troops pour into Ukraine and launch missile strikes on major cities. Tracking the attack with maps. / The Guardian, BBC News Matthew C. Klein explains why Europe is at greater risk from Russian pressure than the other way around. / The Overshoot From 2012: "Putin is a Soviet person who
The Biden administration is investigating ways to train Ukrainian forces remotely, should the country fall to Russia—though it may not be legal, and may make the US a co-combatant. / Axios, Foregin Policy "My internet went down, and I felt fear crawling in my guts. I had never felt
The Biden administration is investigating ways to train Ukrainian forces remotely, should the country fall to Russia—though it may not be legal, and may make the US a co-combatant. / Axios, Foregin Policy "My internet went down, and I felt fear crawling in my guts. I had never felt
The head of NATO: "We now have war in Europe on a scale and of a type we thought belonged to history." / Axios A stream of Ukranians flee the country for Poland. / Reuters Already suffering high prices for natural gas, Europe now faces risks to Ukrainian gas-transport infrastructure.
The head of NATO: "We now have war in Europe on a scale and of a type we thought belonged to history." / Axios Ukranians flee their country for neighboring Poland. / Reuters Europe now faces risks to Ukrainian gas-transport infrastructure. / The Wall Street Journal China denies backing the attack
Biden enacts sanctions against Russia in response to Putin sending troops into eastern Ukraine. / BuzzFeed News "Although the day would end with advancing columns of Russian armor in eastern Ukraine, it began almost normally for the fourth graders of Avdiivka's School Number 7." / Foreign Policy See
Biden enacts sanctions against Russia in response to Putin sending troops into eastern Ukraine. / BuzzFeed News "Although the day would end with advancing columns of Russian armor in eastern Ukraine, it began almost normally for the fourth graders of Avdiivka's School Number 7." / Foreign Policy See
Putin orders troops into two rebel-held regions in eastern Ukraine, after recognizing them as independent states. / CNN Opinions differ on whether it's an "invasion" of the country. / The Washington Post As the EU prepares to unveil the scale of sanctions to be imposed, the west struggles
Russian President Vladimir Putin orders troops into two rebel-held regions in eastern Ukraine, after recognizing them as independent states. / CNN Opinions differ on whether it's an "invasion" of the country. / The Washington Post As the EU prepares to unveil the scale of sanctions to be imposed,
Average daily Covid cases continue to fall in the US, with total infections hovering near 100,000—down from more than 800,000 a day five weeks ago. / Associated Press US officials have informed the UN that Moscow has lists of Ukrainians "to be killed or sent to camps
Average daily Covid cases continue to fall in the US, with total infections hovering near 100,000—down from more than 800,000 a day five weeks ago. / Associated Press US officials have informed the UN that Moscow has lists of Ukrainians "to be killed or sent to camps
Ikea claims the majority of its timber is sustainably harvested, yet it's the largest landowner in Romania, where illegal cutting is rampant. / The New Republic The National Archives has confirmed Trump took classified documents to Mar-a-Lago and that White House staff did not properly keep social media records.
Ikea claims the majority of its timber is sustainably harvested, yet it's the largest landowner in Romania, where illegal cutting is rampant. / The New Republic The National Archives has confirmed Trump took classified documents to Mar-a-Lago and that White House staff did not properly keep social media records.
Japan plans to relax its border control measures after two years of lockdown, though not for tourists. / The Guardian Hong Kong, sticking to its "zero Covid" ambitions, identifies more than 20,000 hotel rooms for quarantine accommodation. / US News & World Report Some evolutionary scenarios for the future
Japan plans to relax its border control measures after two years of lockdown, though not for tourists. / The Guardian Hong Kong, sticking to its "zero Covid-19" ambitions, identifies more than 20,000 hotel rooms for quarantine accommodation. / US News & World Report Some evolutionary scenarios for the future
Putin says Russia doesn't want war, but now there's a genocide to address. The White House says this is the fake crisis we told you about. / US News & World Report, The State Department Critical Russian military units continue to move toward Ukraine, not away from
Putin says Russia doesn't want war, but now there's a genocide he needs to address. The White House says this is the fake crisis we told you about. / US News & World Report, The State Department Critical Russian military units continue to move toward Ukraine, not
Sandy Hook families have settled with Remington in the first case of a gun manufacturer being held liable for a mass shooting in the US. / ABC News An Army lawyer says Russian strategy relies on "infolawfare"—high-stakes diplomatic and legal challenges combined with propaganda. / Lawfare This is good:
Sandy Hook families have settled with Remington in the first case of a gun manufacturer being held liable for a mass shooting in the US. / ABC News An Army lawyer says Russian strategy relies on "infolawfare"—high-stakes diplomatic and legal challenges combined with propaganda. / Lawfare This is good:
Russia's plans to withdraw some of its troops from the border with Ukraine in a possible threat de-escalation. / The Guardian Canada invokes rarely-used special measures to end protests that have shut some border crossings and paralyzed Ottawa. / Reuters Canada plans to bring in more than a million newcomers
Russia plans to withdraw some troops from the border with Ukraine in a possible threat de-escalation. / The Guardian Canada invokes rarely-used special measures to end protests that have shut some border crossings and paralyzed Ottawa. / Reuters Canada plans to bring in more than a million newcomers to support its post-pandemic
A UK minister says Europe is closer to war than at any point over the past 70 years. / The Guardian See also: Russia is engaged in the largest military build-up in Europe since the cold war. / The Economist The US warns that Russia may create a surprise pretext for an
A UK minister says Europe is closer to war than at any point over the past 70 years. / The Guardian See also: Russia is engaged in the largest military build-up in Europe since the cold war. / The Economist The US warns that Russia may create a surprise pretext for an
Pfizer and the FDA pull back from a plan to expedite the review of a Covid-19 vaccine in young children. / STAT Coups and Covid-19 loom large at an African Union summit. / France24 For all of NATO's primacy, it cannot solve the Russia problem, especially without the US. "
Pfizer and the FDA pull back from a plan to expedite the review of a Covid-19 vaccine in young children. / STAT Coups and Covid-19 loom large at an African Union summit. / France24 For all of NATO's primacy, it cannot solve the Russia problem, especially without the US. "
What we know about the fast-spreading variant of the Omicron variant that's already circulating in 69 countries, including the US. / Vox New York City is set to fire 3,000 unvaccinated employees today. / The Hill Police shot and killed at least 1,055 people in the US last
What we know about the fast-spreading variant of the Omicron variant that's already circulating in 69 countries, including the US. / Vox New York City is set to fire 3,000 unvaccinated employees today. / The Hill Police shot and killed at least 1,055 people in the US last
Ford and Toyota stop some production as anti-coronavirus mandate protesters block US-Canada border crossings. / Reuters One problem facing Ottawa: towing a big truck without driver cooperation is virtually impossible. / CBC News See also: Fifteen things not to do when using a rapid antigen test. / The Conversation Russia's force
Ford and Toyota stop some production as anti-coronavirus mandate protesters block US-Canada border crossings. / Reuters One problem facing Ottawa: towing a big truck without driver cooperation is virtually impossible. / CBC News See also: Fifteen things not to do when using a rapid antigen test. / The Conversation Russia's force
Ford and Toyota stop some production as anti-coronavirus mandate protesters block US-Canada border crossings. / Reuters One problem facing Ottawa: towing a big truck without driver cooperation is virtually impossible. / CBC News See also: Fifteen things not to do when using a rapid antigen test. / The Conversation Russia's force
Total worldwide Covid cases reach 400 million, just over a month after hitting 300 million. / Reuters Johnson & Johnson has halted—for now—production of its single-dose Covid vaccine. / CBS News An AstraZeneca vaccine scientist says politicians and other scientists harmed its vaccine's reputation and "probably killed
Total worldwide Covid cases reach 400 million, just over a month after hitting 300 million. / Reuters Johnson & Johnson has halted—for now—production of its single-dose Covid vaccine. / CBS News An AstraZeneca vaccine scientist says politicians and other scientists harmed its vaccine's reputation and "probably killed
Governors in Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, and Oregon announce the end of their statewide school mask mandates. / CNN Anya Kamenetz: A post-masking consensus may be closer than it appears. / NPR A thrifty billionaire, who's only making money in order to give away even more, feels misunderstood. / The Washington
Governors in Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, and Oregon announce the end of their statewide school mask mandates. / CNN Anya Kamenetz: A post-masking consensus may be closer than it appears. / NPR A thrifty billionaire, who's only making more money in order to give it away, feels misunderstood. / The Washington
In the US, there have been more school shootings in the 2021-22 school year so far than at any point in the past decade. / Reuters A 2012 Supreme Court decision that blocked patent protections for diagnostic tests is one of the reasons why Americans can't get Covid tests.
In the US, there have been more school shootings in the 2021-22 school year so far than at any point in the past decade. / Reuters A 2012 Supreme Court decision that blocked patent protections for diagnostic tests is one of the reasons why Americans can't get Covid tests.
"Viral fragments with novel patterns of mutations appeared repeatedly." NYC sewage hints at Covid's future. / The New York Times Newly filed tax records show one of the best-funded anti-vax groups in the US saw a 60% bump in revenue in 2020. / NBC News Why have our
"Viral fragments with novel patterns of mutations appeared repeatedly." NYC sewage hints at Covid's future. / The New York Times Newly filed tax records show one of the best-funded anti-vax groups in the US saw a 60% bump in revenue in 2020. / NBC News Why have our
The US added 467,000 jobs in January despite the omicron variant surge. / The Washington Post Shares of Facebook parent company Meta plunge in the biggest one-day decline for a stock in US history. / CNBC Explainer: How Apple's push for privacy on the iPhone cost Meta $10 billion.
The US added 467,000 jobs in January despite the omicron variant surge. / The Washington Post Shares of Facebook parent company Meta plunge in the biggest one-day decline for a stock in US history. / CNBC Explainer: How Apple's push for privacy on the iPhone cost Meta $10 billion.
Biden revives the "cancer moonshot" program he led as vice president, and this time aims to cut death rates by more than half over the next 25 years. / The New York Times A decade after receiving CAR T-cell therapy, two cancer patients still show no signs of their
Biden revives the "cancer moonshot" program he led as vice president, and this time aims to cut death rates by more than half over the next 25 years. / The New York Times A decade after receiving CAR T-cell therapy, two cancer patients still show no signs of their
Assailants attacked Guinea-Bissau's government palace for hours on Tuesday, but the coup was thwarted. / The Associated Press What local power tells us about national politics in South Africa, Ghana, Senegal, and Nigeria. / This Week in Africa President Biden to deploy more troops in Germany, Poland, and Romania, as
Assailants attacked Guinea-Bissau's government palace for hours on Tuesday, but the coup was thwarted. / The Associated Press What local power tells us about national politics in South Africa, Ghana, Senegal, and Nigeria. / This Week in Africa President Biden plans to deploy more troops in Germany, Poland, and Romania,
The US State Dept. has ordered embassy family members to depart Belarus after a Russian troop buildup on the country's border with Ukraine. / CNN According to new accounts, Trump was a lot more involved than previously thought in efforts to seize voting machines after the 2020 election. / The
The US State Dept. has ordered embassy family members to depart Belarus after a Russian troop buildup on the country's border with Ukraine. / CNN According to new accounts, Trump was a lot more involved than previously thought in efforts to seize voting machines after the 2020 election. / The
World leaders apply diplomatic pressure on Russia ahead of a series of United Nations meetings over the Ukraine crisis. / The Washington Post Even relatively friendly countries in Eastern Europe "mistrust Russian expansionism." / The Economist Portugal's ruling Socialist Party wins parliamentary election, returning it to power. / TIME
World leaders apply diplomatic pressure to Russia ahead of a series of United Nations meetings over the Ukraine crisis. / The Washington Post Even relatively friendly countries in Eastern Europe "mistrust Russian expansionism." / The Economist Portugal's ruling Socialist Party wins parliamentary election, returning it to power. / TIME
A Nor'easter slams the United States' East Coast with extreme snow and wind. / The Washington Post Jane Mayer's big read for the weekend: Is Ginni Thomas, Justice Clarence Thomas's wife, a threat to the Supreme Court? / The New Yorker There's a
A Nor'easter slams the United States' East Coast with extreme snow and wind. / The Washington Post Jane Mayer's big read for the weekend: Is Ginni Thomas, Justice Clarence Thomas's wife, a threat to the Supreme Court? / The New Yorker There's a
Though officials won't "get into the specifics," the US says if Ukraine is invaded it may halt the opening of a Russian pipeline into Western Europe. / BBC A new Omicron variant is spreading rapidly in Asia and Europe, and has now reached the US. Early evidence
Though officials won't "get into the specifics," the US says if Ukraine is invaded it may halt the opening of a Russian pipeline into Western Europe. / BBC A new Omicron variant is spreading rapidly in Asia and Europe, and has now reached the US. Early evidence
The cost of visiting Hong Kong during Omicron can include being sent to the city's government quarantine camp. / CNN Helen Branswell: Hong Kong may become a living laboratory in search for Covid-19 answers. / STAT Headlines of the week? "At Beijing Games, hugs discouraged but condoms available."
The cost of visiting Hong Kong during Omicron can include being sent to the city's government quarantine camp. / CNN Helen Branswell: Hong Kong may become a living laboratory in search for Covid-19 answers. / STAT Headlines of the week? "At Beijing Games, hugs discouraged but condoms available."
As pressures build around a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine, the cracks within NATO are showing. / The Washington Post "Trump has succeeded at one of his foreign-policy goals: creating distance between the US and at least some parts of NATO." How Trumpism looms over the West's
As pressures build around a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine, the cracks within NATO are showing. / The Washington Post "Trump has succeeded at one of his foreign-policy goals: creating distance between the US and at least some parts of NATO." How Trumpism looms over the West's
Burkina Faso's President Roch Kaboré sees his government dissolved in a military coup. / CNN The ousting of Kaboré is the fourth coup in West Africa in the last 17 months. / BBC News See also: Five Trends that will shape urban Africa in 2022. / This Week in Africa How
Burkina Faso's President Roch Kaboré sees his government dissolved in a military coup. / CNN The ousting of Kaboré is the fourth coup in West Africa in the last 17 months. / BBC News See also: Five Trends that will shape urban Africa in 2022. / This Week in Africa How
NATO is sending more ships and fighter jets to eastern Europe in response to Russia's military build-up in and around Ukraine. / Axios After ordering embassy family members to leave Kyiv, the US recommends all Americans in Ukraine depart immediately. The UK is also withdrawing staff from its Ukraine
NATO is sending more ships and fighter jets to eastern Europe in response to Russia's military build-up in and around Ukraine. / Axios After ordering embassy family members to leave Kyiv, the US recommends all Americans in Ukraine depart immediately. The UK is also withdrawing staff from its Ukraine
How Jan. 22, 1973, changed American history: Kissinger flew to Paris to end the Vietnam War, the Supreme Court decided in Roe v. Wade, and LBJ died. / The Washington Post "There was a couple in the farmhouse. They laid me down on a table and gave me a mask.
How Jan. 22, 1973, changed American history: Kissinger flew to Paris to end the Vietnam War, the Supreme Court decided in Roe v. Wade, and LBJ died. / The Washington Post "There was a couple in the farmhouse. They laid me down on a table and gave me a mask.
Ukranians wait for news while Western diplomats face off against their Russian counterparts. / BBC News The UN makes a deal for 11 countries to produce a low-cost version of Merck's Covid-19 pill. / The South China Morning Post Unrelated: Reflections on what a vow of poverty means when you
The Senate failed to change the filibuster, further stalling voting-rights legislation and sending the fight back to statehouses. / BuzzFeed News, CNN See also: "Tonight the president—and his party—learned the true definition of the phrase 'slim majority.'" / The Atlantic The Supreme Court denies Trump'
The Senate failed to change the filibuster, further stalling voting-rights legislation and sending the fight back to statehouses. / BuzzFeed News, CNN See also: "Tonight the president—and his party—learned the true definition of the phrase 'slim majority.'" / The Atlantic The Supreme Court denies Trump'
Secretary of State Antony Blinken flies to Europe in an effort to defuse tensions over Ukraine. / The Associated Press Sudanese security forces kill seven and injure at least 100 ahead of a visit by senior American diplomats. / The New York Times Democrats are attempting to change Senate rules today to
Secretary of State Antony Blinken flies to Europe in an effort to defuse tensions over Ukraine. / The Associated Press Sudanese security forces kill seven and injure at least 100 ahead of a visit by senior American diplomats. / The New York Times Democrats are attempting to change Senate rules today to
Moderna and Pfizer predict their boosters will become annual shots for the next few years. / Ars Technica "If it's purely left to be a commercial decision, I'm not so sure that decision will necessarily be the best one." The WHO wants science—not vaccine
Moderna and Pfizer predict their boosters will become annual shots for the next few years. / Ars Technica "If it's purely left to be a commercial decision, I'm not so sure that decision will necessarily be the best one." The WHO wants science—not vaccine
The Morning News will not publish on Monday. See you Tuesday. Tsunami waves caused by a giant underwater volcanic eruption hit the Pacific country of Tonga. / BBC News Six months after anti-government demonstrations, Cuban courts have started imposing draconian sentences on protesters. / The Guardian Uganda illegally detains novelist Kakwenza Rukirabashaija
The Morning News will not publish on Monday. See you Tuesday. Tsunami waves caused by a giant underwater volcanic eruption hit the Pacific country of Tonga. / BBC News Six months after anti-government demonstrations, Cuban courts begin imposing draconian sentences on protesters. / The Guardian Uganda illegally detains novelist Kakwenza Rukirabashaija for
The Supreme Court has blocked the Biden administration's Covid requirements for large businesses, but will allow a vaccine mandate for health workers to proceed. / Associated Press Jan. 6 prosecutors have filed the rarely used charge of seditious conspiracy against the leader of the Oath Keepers. / Associated Press The
The Supreme Court has blocked the Biden administration's Covid requirements for large businesses, but will allow a vaccine mandate for health workers to proceed. / Associated Press Jan. 6 prosecutors have filed the rarely used charge of seditious conspiracy against the leader of the Oath Keepers. / Associated Press The
China cancels a growing number of flights from the United States because of passengers who later test positive for Covid-19. / Reuters One woman in a locked-down China city is locked in with a blind date. / BBC News Kazakhstan's protests in six objects, from a Birkin bag to bitcoin.
China cancels a growing number of flights from the United States because of passengers who later test positive for Covid-19. / Reuters One woman in a locked-down China city is locked in with a blind date. / BBC News Kazakhstan's protests in six objects, from a Birkin bag to bitcoin.
The latest lockdowns in China are throttling factories and ports, further disrupting supply chains for companies like Samsung, Volkswagen, and Nike. / Sky News Australia Pfizer's Omicron-specific vaccine will be ready by March—though that's likely too late, given the current speed of infections. / CNBC A new
The latest lockdowns in China are throttling factories and ports, further disrupting supply chains for companies like Samsung, Volkswagen, and Nike. / Sky News Australia Pfizer's Omicron-specific vaccine will be ready by March—though that's likely too late, given the current speed of infections. / CNBC A new
A World Health Organization official says the Omicron variant will infect more than half of Europe in the next two months. / CNN Hundreds of thousands of students in Los Angeles return to school from winter break today. Chicago schools reopen tomorrow. / The Los Angeles Times, ABC7 Related: In case you
A World Health Organization official says the Omicron variant will infect more than half of Europe in the next two months. / CNN Hundreds of thousands of students in Los Angeles return to school from winter break. Chicago schools reopen tomorrow. / The Los Angeles Times, ABC7 Related: In case you missed
The US is now averaging 700,000 new Covid cases per day. / USA Today A malfunctioning space heater caused a fire in a Bronx apartment building that killed 19 people, including nine children. / News 12 Brooklyn With Omicron, pediatric hospitalizations—while still the lowest compared to other groups—have hit
The US is now averaging 700,000 new Covid cases per day. / USA Today A malfunctioning space heater caused a fire in a Bronx apartment building that killed 19 people, including nine children. / News 12 Brooklyn With Omicron, pediatric hospitalizations—while still the lowest compared to other groups—have hit
The three men convicted of murdering Ahmaud Arbery were sentenced to life in prison. / NBC News Kazakhstan's former anti-terror chief has been arrested on charges of attempting to overthrow the government following the recent violent protests. / Associated Press Texas claims 246 people died in the 2021 winter power-grid
The three men convicted of murdering Ahmaud Arbery were sentenced to life in prison. / NBC News Kazakhstan's former anti-terror chief has been arrested on charges of attempting to overthrow the government following the recent violent protests. / Associated Press Texas claims 246 people died in the 2021 winter power-grid
Kazakhstan orders security forces to "fire without warning" amid a crackdown on anti-government protests. / BBC News The situation presents Russia with another opportunity to reassert influence in its former Soviet domain. / The New York Times When Putin issues demands down the barrel of a gun, "it should
Kazakhstan orders security forces to "fire without warning" amid a crackdown on anti-government protests. / BBC News The situation presents Russia with yet another opportunity to reassert influence in its former Soviet domain. / The New York Times When Putin issues demands down the barrel of a gun, "it
Garland has told Justice Dept. employees that prosecutors remain "committed to holding all Jan. 6 perpetrators, at any level, accountable under law." / Associated Press One year after Jan. 6, here are the numbers on where the legal efforts stand. / BuzzFeed News In unrest sparked by rising gas prices
Garland has told Justice Dept. employees that prosecutors remain "committed to holding all Jan. 6 perpetrators, at any level, accountable under law." / Associated Press One year after Jan. 6, here are the numbers on where the legal efforts stand. / BuzzFeed News In unrest sparked by rising gas prices
One month before the Olympics, China puts a second city into total lockdown after just three asymptomatic Covid-19 cases were detected. / BBC News In Hong Kong, one of the few places still pursuing a zero-Covid policy, testing positive for Covid means lockdown for nearly a month, symptoms or not. / CNN
One month before the Olympics, China puts a second city into total lockdown after just three asymptomatic Covid-19 cases are detected. / BBC News In Hong Kong, one of the few places still pursuing a zero-Covid policy, testing positive means lockdown for nearly a month, symptoms or not. / CNN French President
Driven by the Omicron variant, new Covid infections in the US shatter prior coronavirus records, with more than a million cases reported yesterday. / USA Today As schools across the US open today—or try to, anyway—the FDA authorizes Pfizer boosters for 12-to-15-year-olds. / NBC News, NPR Some people with compromised
Driven by the Omicron variant, new Covid infections in the US shatter prior coronavirus records, with more than a million cases reported yesterday. / USA Today As schools across the US open today—or try to, anyway—the FDA authorizes Pfizer boosters for 12-to-15-year-olds. / NBC News, NPR Some people with compromised
We asked some of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2021, and what were the least?
TMN is going on holiday break. Below you'll find some of our favorite groups to support at this time of year (or, frankly, year-round). We'll return January 4, 2022. Stay safe yall. Give Directly facilitates direct cash transfers and lets people spend the money however they
TMN is going on holiday break. Below you'll find some of our favorite groups to support. We'll return January 4, 2022. Stay safe, yall. Give Directly facilitates direct cash transfers and lets people spend the money however they need. / Give Directly Plan International helps girls and
Omicron now accounts for 73% of all new US Covid cases, and has surpassed delta as the most prominent variant in the country. / Associated Press So far, the onset of omicron looks different from previous variants; early symptoms resemble the common cold. / KTLA "After waiting about 35 minutes in
Omicron now accounts for 73% of all new US Covid cases, and has surpassed delta as the most prominent variant in the country. / Associated Press So far, the onset of omicron looks different from previous variants; early symptoms resemble the common cold. / KTLA "After waiting about 35 minutes in
Moderna says its booster shot significantly raises the level of antibodies that can foil the Omicron coronavirus variant. / The Guardian Only one in six Americans has received a booster, worrying health officials. / The New York Times Scouring the web for information about the Omicron storm? Here are some deeper dives
Moderna says its booster shot significantly raises the level of antibodies that can foil the Omicron coronavirus variant. / The Guardian Only one in six Americans has received a booster, worrying health officials. / The New York Times Scouring the web for info about the Omicron storm? Here are some deeper dives
Biden's vaccine mandate for large employers is once again a go, after an appeals court overruled a previous judge's decision. / Associated Press Eight charts that show how Covid vaccines shaped 2021. / Nature This week, the Biden administration finally reversed Trump's loosening of shower head
Biden's vaccine mandate for large employers is once again a go, after an appeals court overruled a previous judge's decision. / Associated Press Eight charts that show how Covid vaccines shaped 2021. / Nature This week, the Biden administration finally reversed Trump's loosening of shower head
The CDC now recommends the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines over J&J, citing blood-clotting concerns. / NBC News One reason omicron is spreading so much quicker than delta: It multiplies about 70 times faster inside the respiratory tract. / Goats and Soda In 2020, due to the pandemic, the FDA relaxed
The CDC now recommends the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines over J&J, citing blood-clotting concerns. / NBC News One reason omicron is spreading so much quicker than delta: It multiplies about 70 times faster inside the respiratory tract. / Goats and Soda [Correction] In 2020, due to the pandemic, the FDA
The CDC now recommends the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines over J&J, citing blood-clotting concerns. / NBC News One reason omicron is spreading so much quicker than delta: It multiplies about 70 times faster inside the respiratory tract. / Goats and Soda In 2020, due to the pandemic, the FDA relaxed
It's estimated that without vaccines, the United States would have experienced approximately 1.1 million additional Covid-19 deaths. / The Commonwealth Fund New CDC data show where Covid deaths have been higher than publicly reported. / Muckrock An Omnicron surge in the US is likely, given the variant's
Without vaccines, it's estimated the United States would have experienced approximately 1.1 million additional Covid-19 deaths. / The Commonwealth Fund New CDC data show where Covid deaths have been higher than publicly reported. / Muckrock An Omnicron surge in the US is likely, given the variant's rapid
In a massive journalistic effort that will change zero minds, a review of potential cases of 2020 voter fraud shows there wasn't enough to tip the election. / Associated Press Related: Three residents of the Villages in Florida face felony charges for casting more than one vote in the
In a massive journalistic effort that will change zero minds, a review of potential cases of 2020 voter fraud shows there wasn't enough to tip the election. / Associated Press Related: Three residents of the Villages in Florida face felony charges for casting more than one vote in the
North and South Korea have agreed to officially declare an end to the Korean war after nearly seventy years. / Forbes Germany warns Russia that any military action in Ukraine will jeopardize the Nordstream 2 gas pipeline. / Barrons In Brazil, sometimes political disputes are solved (not really) with an MMA fight.
North and South Korea agree to officially declare an end to the Korean war after nearly 70 years. / Forbes Germany warns Russia that any military action in Ukraine will jeopardize the Nordstream 2 gas pipeline. / Barrons In Brazil, sometimes political disputes are solved (not really) with an MMA fight. / The
Correction: We misrepresented a link in Saturday's newsletter about photos of Finland's Prime Minister that were edited to make her resemble a cat. The photos are the work of right-wing trolls, not the PM. Our sincere apologies for the error. As of Sunday, more than 800,
Correction: We misrepresented a link in Saturday's newsletter about photos of Finland's Prime Minister that were edited to make her resemble a cat. The photos are the work of right-wing trolls, not the PM. Our sincere apologies for the error. As of Sunday, more than 800,
A series of devastating tornadoes hit Kentucky and other states last night, leaving at least 70 people dead. / NBC News Aerial footage of the aftermath in Mayfield, Ken. / Twitter Now that the Supreme Court has left Texas's abortion law in place, expect more states to pass similar laws.
A series of devastating tornadoes hit Kentucky and other states last night, leaving at least 70 people dead. / NBC News Aerial footage of the aftermath in Mayfield, Ken. / Twitter Now that the Supreme Court has left Texas's abortion law in place, expect more states to pass similar laws.
The Supreme Court will allow Texas's six-week abortion ban to remain in place, but has ruled abortion providers can sue over the law. / NPR, the 19th See also: California releases a plan to become an abortion sanctuary should Roe be overturned. / Associated Press This week marks two years
The Supreme Court will allow Texas's six-week abortion ban to remain in place, but has ruled abortion providers can sue over the law. / NPR, the 19th See also: California releases a plan to become an abortion sanctuary should Roe be overturned. / Associated Press This week marks two years
The Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 shot loses power against the Omicron coronavirus variant, the manufacturer says, but a booster restores protection. / STAT Recent: Some of the recent Omicron news explained by Sciencewhizliz. / Instagram Some high-profile Democrats are starting to oppose vaccine mandates, specifically applied to private business. / Politico Two years later, the
The Pfizer-BioNTech shot loses power against the Omicron coronavirus variant, the manufacturer says, but a booster restores protection. / STAT See also: Some of the recent Omicron news explained by Sciencewhizliz. / Instagram Some high-profile Democrats are starting to oppose vaccine mandates, specifically applied to private business. / Politico Two years later, the
If net-zero goals are to be met, by 2050 the world needs no fewer than 200 million public charging points for electric vehicles. / The Economist Many unions representing workers affected by climate legislation have struck deals, but opposition from coal miners persists. / The New York Times See also: The top
If net-zero goals are to be met, by 2050 the world needs no fewer than 200 million public charging points for electric vehicles. / The Economist Many unions representing workers affected by climate legislation have struck deals, but opposition persists from coal miners. / The New York Times See also: The top
Russia is said to be planning a massive military offensive against Ukraine involving 175,000 troops, seemingly in a bid to keep Ukraine out of NATO. / The Washington Post The US government plans to diplomatically boycott the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. / Quartz More people died of malaria in 2020
Russia is said to be planning a massive military offensive against Ukraine involving 175,000 troops, seemingly in a bid to keep Ukraine out of NATO. / The Washington Post The US government plans to diplomatically boycott the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. / Quartz More people died of malaria in 2020
Early indications suggest the omicron variant of the coronavirus may be less dangerous than delta, which continues to drive a surge of hospitalizations. / The Associated Press All private sector employers in New York City will now be required to implement a Covid-19 vaccine mandate by December 27. / CNN Myanmar'
Early indications suggest the omicron variant of the coronavirus may be less dangerous than delta, which continues to drive a surge of hospitalizations. / The Associated Press All private sector employers in New York City will be required to implement a Covid-19 vaccine mandate by December 27. / CNN Myanmar's
Russia appears to be planning an invasion of Ukraine, and has demanded the US guarantee Ukraine won't join NATO. / The Washington Post Ahead of Biden's "summit for democracy," China's Communist Party issues a statement saying the Western democratic model is "doomed
Russia appears to be planning an invasion of Ukraine, and has demanded the US guarantee Ukraine won't join NATO. / The Washington Post Ahead of Biden's "summit for democracy," China's Communist Party issues a statement saying the Western democratic model is "doomed
Some tips on how to interpret the coming flood of data about the Omicron Covid-19 variant. / STAT A survey of Omicron's best- and worst-Case scenarios. If it ends up causing milder symptoms than Delta, "there's a real upside." / The Atlantic Related: An atomic simulation
Here are the shortlist, judges, and Zombie poll for the 2022 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
Some tips on how to interpret the coming flood of data about the Omicron Covid-19 variant. / STAT A survey of Omicron's best- and worst-Case scenarios. "If it ends up causing milder symptoms than Delta, there's a real upside." / The Atlantic Related: An atomic simulation
The European Commission president says the EU must consider mandatory vaccination in response to the spread of the Omicron Covid-19 variant. / The Guardian Germany's incoming chancellor wants vaccinations to be mandatory by February. / Politico Public health experts say mandates are unlikely to win over those with deep-rooted opposition.
The European Commission president says the EU needs to consider mandatory vaccination in response to the Omicron Covid-19 variant. / The Guardian Germany's incoming chancellor wants vaccinations to be mandatory by February. / Politico Public health experts say mandates are unlikely to win over those with deep-rooted opposition. / TIME The
A good primer on today's abortion case at the Supreme Court. / Wake Up to Politics Brazil and Japan report cases of the omicron variant. Of the 11 European countries where omicron has appeared, all cases have been mild or asymptomatic. / Associated Press, Bloomberg The CDC says it plans
A good primer on today's abortion case at the Supreme Court. / Wake Up to Politics Brazil and Japan report cases of the omicron variant. Of the 11 European countries where omicron has appeared, all cases have been mild or asymptomatic. / Associated Press, Bloomberg The CDC says it plans
Unpublished documents directly link China's crackdown on Uyghur Muslims to the highest levels of the Chinese Communist party. / The Guardian Meanwhile, the party is trying to cleanse Chinese cyberspace of entertainment at odds with socialist values. / The Economist Regarding tennis pro Peng Shuai, Beijing seems to be relying
Unpublished documents link China's crackdown on Uyghur Muslims to the highest levels of the Chinese Communist party. / The Guardian Meanwhile, the party is trying to cleanse Chinese cyberspace of entertainment at odds with socialist values. / The Economist Regarding tennis pro Peng Shuai, Beijing seems to be relying on
After scientists in South Africa discovered the omicron Covid variant, which appears to have higher rates of reinfection, the country says it's being unjustly punished through travel bans. / BBC See also: If previous Covid mutations are any guide, travel bans likely won't help quell the spread
After scientists in South Africa discovered the omicron Covid variant, which appears to have higher rates of reinfection, the country says it's being unjustly punished through travel bans. / BBC See also: If previous Covid mutations are any guide, travel bans likely won't help quell the spread
We're going to be off next week, and will return on Monday, Nov. 29. See you then! The House of Representatives approves the "Build Back Better" plan, with funding for social benefits and billions to address climate change. / The Washington Post Op-ed: The plan also includes
We're going to be off next week, and will return on Monday, Nov. 29. See you then! The House of Representatives approves the "Build Back Better" plan, with funding for social benefits and billions to address climate change. / The Washington Post Op-ed: The plan also includes
Belarus has relocated the refugees and migrants from its border with Poland. Of those who were stuck at the border, hundreds are Iraqis who have now flown home. / Al Jazeera, Associated Press The man who shot and killed Ahmaud Arbery admits Arbery did not threaten him, despite claiming he acted
Belarus has relocated the refugees and migrants from its border with Poland. Of those who were stuck at the border, hundreds are Iraqis who have now flown home. / Al Jazeera, Associated Press The man who shot and killed Ahmaud Arbery admits Arbery did not threaten him, despite claiming he acted
Total deaths in the United States from Covid-19 could reach 1 million by spring as vaccination rates remain lower than 60%. / The Guardian Drug overdose deaths in the US top 100,000 for the first time. / NPR "The Daily" podcast has policies designed to prevent misinformation in its
Total deaths in the United States from Covid-19 could reach one million by spring as vaccination rates remain lower than 60%. / The Guardian Drug overdose deaths in the US top 100,000 for the first time. / NPR "The Daily" podcast has policies designed to prevent misinformation in its
Tensions escalate at the border of Belarus and Poland, with Polish forces now using tear gas and water cannons as migrants try to cross into the country. / BBC In what may be the second-ever case, a patient has naturally cleared HIV without antiviral treatments or a bone marrow transplant. / Gizmodo
Tensions escalate at the border of Belarus and Poland, with Polish forces now using tear gas and water cannons as migrants try to cross into the country. / BBC In what may be the second-ever case, a patient has naturally cleared HIV without antiviral treatments or a bone marrow transplant. / Gizmodo
China's Communist Party published a landmark document that sets up President Xi Jinping to potentially rule for life. / Bloomberg Presidents Joe Biden and Jinping pledge to avoid conflict and improve cooperation. / Reuters Russia blasted one of its own satellites out of orbit. The resulting debris forced crew on
China's Communist Party publishes a landmark document that sets up President Xi Jinping to potentially rule for life. / Bloomberg Presidents Joe Biden and Jinping pledge to avoid conflict and improve cooperation. / Reuters Russia blasts one of its own satellites out of orbit. The resulting debris forces crew on
Covid cases are rising in the US, with 23 states reporting increases, and Vermont setting a record case count. / USA Today Amid rising infections across Europe, Austria will restrict unvaccinated people to leaving their homes only for essential shopping and work. / Reuters Why do residents support Denmark's reintroduction
Covid cases are rising in the US, with 23 states reporting increases, and Vermont setting a record case count. / USA Today Amid rising infections across Europe, Austria will restrict unvaccinated people to leaving their homes only for essential shopping and work. / Reuters Why do residents support Denmark's reintroduction
A panel of the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals upholds the hold on the White House's vaccine mandate for companies with more than 100 employees. / Reuters Steve Bannon has been indicted by a federal grand jury on contempt for refusing to comply with a subpoena from the
A panel of the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals upholds the hold on the White House's vaccine mandate for companies with more than 100 employees. / Reuters Steve Bannon has been indicted by a federal grand jury on contempt for refusing to comply with a subpoena from the
Anticipating the 2022 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes, here are the 68 most Rooster-worthy books of 2021.
At the close of the COP26 climate summit, commitments to end the use of coal and other fuels are falling apart as countries race to reach a deal. / BBC News The Pacific island nation Tuvalu is looking at legal ways to be a state if it is submerged. / Reuters Unrelated/
At the close of the COP26 climate summit, commitments to end the use of coal and other fuels are falling apart as countries race to reach a deal. / BBC News The Pacific island nation Tuvalu is looking at legal ways to be a state if it is submerged. / Reuters Unrelated/
In a surprise announcement at COP26, the US and China say they'll work together to achieve climate goals. / CNN "Packing up and moving is, if not impossible, then highly unlikely for the stateless." Those most vulnerable to climate change. / NPR More US cities are ramping up
In a surprise announcement at COP26, the US and China say they'll work together to achieve climate goals. / CNN "Packing up and moving is, if not impossible, then highly unlikely for the stateless." Those most vulnerable to climate change. / NPR More US cities are ramping up
A federal court pauses the new vaccinate-or-test rule for businesses with over 100 employees. / The Washington Post The partisan nature of US politics has gotten so extreme, public health groups hide news of emerging science for fear of backlash. / BuzzFeedNews See also: A new book from NextDraft's Dave
A federal court pauses the new vaccinate-or-test rule for businesses with over 100 employees. / The Washington Post The partisan nature of US politics has gotten so extreme, public health groups hide news of emerging science for fear of backlash. / BuzzFeedNews See also: A new book from NextDraft's Dave
Fleeing Belarusian forces, migrants at a camp near the country's western border are trying to push their way into Poland. / Associated Press The European Commission accuses Belarus's authoritarian leader of creating the problem at the border by luring migrants with the promise of entry into the
Fleeing Belarusian forces, migrants at a camp near the country's western border are trying to push their way into Poland. / Associated Press The European Commission accuses Belarus's authoritarian leader of creating the problem at the border by luring migrants with the promise of entry into the
President Biden scores passage of the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Time to assess what comes next. / Wake Up to Politics The likelihood that Americans born in the 1980s have of earning more than their parents: 50 percent. For those born in the 1940s? Ninety percent. / The
President Biden scores passage of the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Time to assess what comes next. / Wake Up to Politics The likelihood that Americans born in the 1980s will earn more than their parents: 50 percent. For those born in the 1940s? Ninety percent. / The Economist
Nine anti-government factions in Ethiopia say they've formed an alliance "amid growing fears they will attempt to overthrow the government." / The Guardian In Venezuela, a rum company offers gangsters a life outside of crime. In turn, they've helped the company thrive. / The New York
Nine anti-government factions in Ethiopia say they've formed an alliance "amid growing fears they will attempt to overthrow the government." / The Guardian In Venezuela, a rum company offers gangsters a life outside of crime. In turn, they've helped the company thrive. / The New York
Why the theory that fears over critical race theory hurt Democrats in Virginia and New Jersey doesn't hold much water. / Vox More than a century after the Benin Bronzes were looted by the British Army, the Smithsonian has begun the process of repatriating them to Nigeria. / The New
Why the theory that fears over critical race theory hurt Democrats in Virginia and New Jersey doesn't hold much water. / Vox More than a century after the Benin Bronzes were looted by the British Army, the Smithsonian has begun the process of repatriating them to Nigeria. / The New
On Wednesday night the United States surpassed 750,000 deaths from the coronavirus, according to Johns Hopkins data. / The Week Covid infections reach their highest level yet in England. The World Health Organization's Europe director says all 53 countries in the region are facing "a real threat
On Wednesday night, the United States surpassed 750,000 deaths from the coronavirus, according to Johns Hopkins data. / The Week Covid infections reach their highest level yet in England. / Bloomberg The World Health Organization's Europe director says all 53 countries in the region are facing "a real
The Taliban says ISIS-K is responsible for the attack on a Kabul hospital that has killed at least 19 people and wounded 50 more. / CBS News What does Youngkin's win in Virginia over McAuliffe mean? For Republicans, distancing themselves from Trump—without alienating his base—can mean a
The Taliban says ISIS-K is responsible for the attack on a Kabul hospital that has killed at least 19 people and wounded 50 more. / CBS News What does Youngkin's win in Virginia over McAuliffe mean? For Republicans, distancing themselves from Trump—without alienating his base—can mean a
Today is Election Day 2021. It may be an off-year, "but there are still some important races going on across the country." / Wake Up to Politics Tressie McMillan Cottom: To talk about what Kyrsten Sinema is wearing—denim vest et al—is to take her power and politics
Today is Election Day 2021. It may be an off-year, "but there are still some important races going on across the country." / Wake Up to Politics Tressie McMillan Cottom: To talk about what Kyrsten Sinema is wearing—denim vest et al—is to take her power and politics
In the days and weeks prior to the insurrection, the FBI and other law enforcement failed to act on numerous leads that signaled violence was on the horizon. / The Guardian Related: A timeline of what happened in the 187 minutes between the beginning of the Capitol attack and Trump reluctantly
In the days and weeks prior to the insurrection, the FBI and other law enforcement failed to act on numerous leads that signaled violence was on the horizon. / The Guardian Related: A timeline of what happened in the 187 minutes between the beginning of the Capitol attack and Trump reluctantly
This week in Congress, petroleum companies denied ever downplaying fossil fuels' role in climate change. Six decades of corporate documents show otherwise. / The Conversation See also: "In a three-degrees-warmer world, the coastlines of today will largely be gone, endlessly reduced over the coming centuries by rising seas."
This week in Congress, petroleum companies denied ever downplaying fossil fuels' role in climate change. Six decades of corporate documents show otherwise. / The Conversation See also: "In a three-degrees-warmer world, the coastlines of today will largely be gone, endlessly reduced over the coming centuries by rising seas."
Why does Puerto Rico lead the United States in vaccination and low coronavirus transmission rate? Because Covid's been politicized "in a different way." / NPR Unrelated: Why did Joe Biden give Olivia Rodrigo a shoehorn? / The Cut Your unvaccinated friends and family are roughly 20 times more
Your unvaccinated friends and family are roughly 20 times more likely to give you Covid. / The Conversation Why does Puerto Rico lead the United States in vaccination and low coronavirus transmission rate? Because Covid-19's been politicized "in a different way." / NPR Unrelated: Why did Joe Biden
Less known than Facebook's danger to the West is how it allows the rest of the world to drown in misinformation and abuse. / Slate "My body—or bodies like mine—is used to help design military technology." The prosthetics industry and the military share a long
Less known than Facebook's danger to the West is how it allows the rest of the world to drown in misinformation and abuse. / Slate "My body—or bodies like mine—is used to help design military technology." The prosthetics industry and the military share a long
Sudan's military leader defends the takeover of the country, placing blame on political leaders. Soldiers tried to capture injured protesters inside hospitals. / The Guardian Jihadism, crime, and political violence have grown so intense in Nigeria that the country is said to be "sliding towards ungovernability." / The
Sudan's military leader defends the takeover of the country, placing blame on political leaders. Meanwhile, soldiers try to abduct injured protesters inside hospitals. / The Guardian Jihadism, crime, and political violence have grown so intense in Nigeria that the country is said to be "sliding towards ungovernability."
The tug of war over spending bills has delayed Congressional action on securing the nation's pandemic infrastructure. / STAT The Biden administration says that after months of legal reviews, it doesn't have the authority to share Moderna's mRNA vaccine process. / The Washington Post Rather than
The tug of war over spending bills has delayed Congressional action on securing the nation's pandemic infrastructure. / STAT The Biden administration says that after months of legal reviews, it doesn't have the authority to share Moderna's mRNA vaccine process. / The Washington Post Rather than
China struggles with new outbreaks of Covid-19's delta variant ahead of the Winter Olympics in February. / The Week A study says "funny or cute memes" made people feel more confident in their ability to face the global health crisis. / The Washington Post Substandard and falsified coronavirus
China struggles with new outbreaks of Covid-19's delta variant ahead of the Winter Olympics in February. / The Week A study says "funny or cute memes" made people feel more confident in their ability to face the global health crisis. / The Washington Post Substandard and falsified coronavirus
New research proves that Viking voyagers lived in Newfoundland as far back as 1021. / The Wall Street Journal The country of Westarctica has evolved from an internet stunt to a micronation, to a charity trying to affect climate change. / AFAR A bus company in Hong Kong launched a five-hour tour
New research proves that Viking voyagers lived in Newfoundland as far back as 1021. / The Wall Street Journal The country of Westarctica has evolved from an internet stunt to a micronation, to a charity trying to affect climate change. / AFAR A bus company in Hong Kong launched a five-hour tour
"We do not know who has your ear, but it clearly isn't us or your constituents." Five members of Sen. Kyrsten Sinema's advisory board quit. / CNN See also: "Under the actual ruling principles of the United States, Manchin is currently the most powerful
"We do not know who has your ear, but it clearly isn't us or your constituents." Five members of Sen. Kyrsten Sinema's advisory board quit. / CNN See also: "Under the actual ruling principles of the United States, Manchin is currently the most powerful
A leak finds Saudi Arabia, Japan and Australia among countries asking the UN to play down the need to move rapidly away from fossil fuels. / BBC News One way to sequester carbon dioxide? Buy a coal mine (only $7.8 million) and shutter it. / Marginal Revolution West Virginia senator Manchin
A leak finds Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Australia among countries asking the United Nations to play down the need to move rapidly away from fossil fuels. / BBC News One way to sequester carbon dioxide? Buy a coal mine (only $7.8 million) and shutter it. / Marginal Revolution West Virginia senator
When a leader in the field of scientific integrity pointed out errors in a hydroxychloroquine proponent's work, he went on the attack—and unleashed his followers. / BuzzFeed News San Francisco temporarily shut down its only In-N-Out Burger location for not properly checking patrons' vaccination status. / NPR Lockdown
When a leader in the field of scientific integrity pointed out errors in a hydroxychloroquine proponent's work, he went on the attack—and unleashed his followers. / BuzzFeed News San Francisco temporarily shut down its only In-N-Out Burger location for not properly checking patrons' vaccination status. / NPR Lockdown
The FDA plans to allow Americans to "mix and match," i.e., receive a different Covid-19 vaccine as a booster than the one they initially received. / US News & World Report The coronavirus is still mutating—how much does that matter? "I see nothing that suggests this
The FDA plans to allow Americans to "mix and match," i.e., receive a different Covid-19 vaccine as a booster than the one they initially received. / US News & World Report The coronavirus is still mutating—how much does that matter? "I see nothing that suggests this
One of the people shot by Kyle Rittenhouse in Kenosha last year is suing the police, accusing them of coordinating with white nationalists. / BuzzFeed News Jury selection has begun in the trial for the three white men charged with shooting and killing Ahmaud Arbery while he was jogging. / The Atlanta
One of the people shot by Kyle Rittenhouse in Kenosha last year is suing the police, accusing them of coordinating with white nationalists. / BuzzFeed News Jury selection has begun in the trial for the three white men charged with shooting and killing Ahmaud Arbery while he was jogging. / The Atlanta
An FDA panel recommends those who received the J&J Covid vaccine should get a booster—essentially saying it requires two doses to be effective. / STAT Data visualizations explain how, at companies where institutional sexism exists, fewer women reach executive levels. / The New York Times The inequality of today&
An FDA panel recommends those who received the J&J Covid vaccine should get a booster—essentially saying it requires two doses to be effective. / STAT Data visualizations explain how, at companies where institutional sexism exists, fewer women reach executive levels. / The New York Times The inequality of today&
Crucial UN climate talks next month are likely to fall short of the global target for cutting coal, gas, and oil emissions. / The Associated Press Nearly half the homes in the US use natural gas for heat, and they may end up paying 30% more than a year ago. / The
Crucial UN climate talks next month are likely to fall short of the global target for cutting coal, gas, and oil emissions. / The Associated Press Nearly half of homes in the US use natural gas for heat, and this winter they may end up paying 30% more than a year
Why is America's upper middle class so unhappy? Too much work, and abject disbelief in a meritocracy. / Vox This week's white paper to wonder about says billionaires are better-looking than average for their age. / National Bureau of Economic Research Jessa Crispin: Most laptops provided to US
Why is America's upper middle class so unhappy? Too much work, and abject disbelief in a meritocracy. / Vox This week's white paper to wonder about says billionaires are better-looking than average for their age. / National Bureau of Economic Research Jessa Crispin: Most laptops provided to US
The International Monetary Fund says the persistence of the coronavirus and global supply chain crisis is weighing on economies. / Bloomberg The White House announces that the Port of Los Angeles will begin working "24/7" to ease supply chain woes. / NPR "Right now, everyone is blaming the
The International Monetary Fund says the persistence of the coronavirus and global supply chain crisis is weighing on economies. / Bloomberg The White House announces that the Port of Los Angeles will begin working "24/7" to ease supply chain woes. / NPR "Right now, everyone is blaming the
Helen Branswell compiles a primer on what’s known about mixing and matching Covid-19 vaccines. / STAT Texas Governor Greg Abbott bans all organizations, including private companies, from enforcing vaccinations in his state. / BBC News Coronavirus question: Should I humor my friend's request for a pointless Covid precaution? / NPR
Helen Branswell compiles a primer on what's known about mixing and matching Covid-19 vaccines. / STAT Texas Governor Greg Abbott bans all organizations, including private companies, from enforcing vaccinations in his state. / BBC News Coronavirus question: Should I humor my friend's request for a pointless Covid precaution?
Severe flooding recently displaced more than 1.76 million people in Shanxi province in northern China, according to local media. / BBC News Southwest Airlines canceled more than 2,000 flights this weekend, citing weather and air traffic controller problems. No other airlines seemed to be impacted. / CNN Related: An illustrated
Severe flooding recently displaced more than 1.76 million people in Shanxi province in northern China, according to local media. / BBC News Southwest Airlines canceled more than 2,000 flights this weekend, citing weather and air traffic controller problems. No other airlines seem to have been impacted. / CNN Related: An
Over the last five years, the top 100 law firms in the United States represented fossil fuel clients in 358 legal cases and transactions worth $1.36 trillion. / The Guardian China is ratcheting up military pressure on Taiwan. / The Economist Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's forces intensify airstrikes
Over the last five years, the top 100 law firms in the United States represented fossil fuel clients in 358 legal cases and transactions worth $1.36 trillion. / The Guardian China is ratcheting up military pressure on Taiwan. / The Economist Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's forces intensify airstrikes
Following this week's ruling from a federal judge, at least one Texas healthcare provider is again performing abortions past six weeks of pregnancy. / BuzzFeed News The estate of Henrietta Lacks is suing a pharmaceutical company for selling her cells, which were taken without her knowledge or consent by
Following this week's ruling from a federal judge, at least one Texas healthcare provider is again performing abortions past six weeks of pregnancy. / BuzzFeed News The estate of Henrietta Lacks is suing a pharmaceutical company for selling her cells, which were taken without her knowledge or consent by
The WHO is rolling out the first vaccine for malaria, a disease that kills hundreds of thousands every year, most of them under five years of age. / STAT Pfizer has officially requested the FDA provide Emergency Use Authorization for its Covid vaccine for children aged 5 to 11. / NPR Studies
The WHO is rolling out the first vaccine for malaria, a disease that kills hundreds of thousands every year, most of them under five years of age. / STAT Pfizer has officially requested the FDA provide Emergency Use Authorization for its Covid vaccine for children aged 5 to 11. / NPR Studies
How the Facebook outage affected the developing world, which depends on WhatsApp for health services and to shield communications from totalitarian governments. / NBC News, People Related: Telegram says it added 70 million new users while Facebook was down. / The Guardian The Facebook outage forced small business owners to realize that
How the Facebook outage affected the developing world, which depends on WhatsApp for health services and to shield communications from totalitarian governments. / NBC News, People Related: Telegram says it added 70 million new users while Facebook was down. / The Guardian The Facebook outage forced small business owners to realize that
In a brief glimmer of hope, Facebook and all of its services were down for nearly six hours yesterday. / Associated Press Facebook says the outage was caused by a configuration change, and here's a fascinating observation of how the services disappeared from the web. / The Verge, Cloudflare According
In a brief glimmer of hope, Facebook and all of its services were down for nearly six hours yesterday. / Associated Press Facebook says the outage was caused by a configuration change, and here's a fascinating observation of how the services disappeared from the web. / The Verge, Cloudflare According
An explosive new report on the vast offshore systems used by the powerful—including 14 current country leaders—to hide billions of dollars. / The Washington Post Litigation over the opioid crisis now shifts to major pharmacy chains, which are accused of dispensing opioids while ignoring monitoring protocols. / NPR The whistleblower
An explosive new report on the vast offshore systems used by the powerful—including 14 current country leaders—to hide billions of dollars. / The Washington Post Litigation over the opioid crisis now shifts to major pharmacy chains, which are accused of dispensing opioids while ignoring monitoring protocols. / NPR The whistleblower
The US death toll from Covid has now surpassed 700,000 people. / Associated Press "Each year, our moon moves distinctly, inexorably farther from Earth—just a tiny bit, about an inch and a half, a nearly imperceptible change." / The Atlantic The FCC wants to curtail SIM hijacking by
The US death toll from Covid has now surpassed 700,000 people. / Associated Press "Each year, our moon moves distinctly, inexorably farther from Earth—just a tiny bit, about an inch and a half, a nearly imperceptible change." / The Atlantic The FCC wants to curtail SIM hijacking by
Despite telehealth’s expansion in the past year and a half, it has largely failed to reach the 57 million people in rural parts of the country. / STAT Covid-19 is killing rural Americans at twice the rate of people in urban areas. / NBC News Britain’s government-funded furlough program ended
Despite telehealth's expansion in the past year and a half, it has largely failed to reach about 57 million people in rural parts of the United States. / STAT Covid-19 is killing rural Americans at twice the rate of people in urban areas. / NBC News Britain's government-funded
"Today's actions are already writing the opening chapters of the next pandemic's history." We're already not doing enough to prepare for whatever's next. / The Atlantic YouTube says it's extending its ban on Covid vaccine misinformation to cover many
"Today's actions are already writing the opening chapters of the next pandemic's history." We're already not doing enough to prepare for whatever's next. / The Atlantic YouTube says it's extending its ban on Covid vaccine misinformation to cover many
Amid rising demand, oil prices climbed above $80 a barrel on Tuesday, hitting their highest level in three years. / BBC News Britain's gas crisis is now seen as a Brexit crisis. / CNN If the race to electric between Ford and General Motors is tight, "the longer-distance one
Amid rising demand, oil prices climb above $80 a barrel, hitting their highest level in three years. / BBC News Britain's gas crisis is now being seen as a Brexit crisis. / CNN If the race to electric between Ford and General Motors is tight, "the longer-distance one to
The FBI says there was a record increase in murders—a nearly 30% jump—in the US last year. / USA Today See also: Originally stolen from a Wisconsin shop, a single handgun has been linked to 27 shootings in Chicago, including two homicides. / Chicago Tribune Using a technique called "
The FBI says there was a record increase in murders—a nearly 30% jump—in the US last year. / USA Today See also: Originally stolen from a Wisconsin shop, a single handgun has been linked to 27 shootings in Chicago, including two homicides. / Chicago Tribune Using a technique called "
Germany is set for weeks or even months of coalition talks after the center-left Social Democrats claim victory. / BBC News See also: Who is Olaf Scholz, and what kind of Germany would he lead? / The Economist Arizona finishes its "audit" of the 2020 election—President Biden actually picked
Germany is set for weeks or even months of coalition talks after the center-left Social Democrats claim victory. / BBC News See also: Who is Olaf Scholz, and what kind of Germany would he lead? / The Economist Arizona finishes its "audit" of the 2020 election—President Biden actually picked
China returns two Canadians in exchange for a Huawei executive, resolving a 1,030-day standoff with the United States. / The New York Times A good article from The Continent's archives on "the un-Hollywood fate of Paul Rusesabagina," who just received a 25-Year prison sentence in Rwanda.
China returns two Canadians in exchange for a Huawei executive, resolving a 1,030-day standoff with the United States. / The New York Times A good article from The Continent's archives on "the un-Hollywood fate of Paul Rusesabagina," who just received a 25-Year prison sentence in Rwanda.
China's massive Evergrande property developer misses its $83 million bond payment, and now has 30 days before it defaults. / CNBC After a series of moves to crack down on cryptocurrencies, today China banned all crypto transactions. / VICE The Maricopa County recount funded by "Stop the Steal"
China's massive Evergrande property developer misses its $83 million bond payment, and now has 30 days before it defaults. / CNBC After a series of moves to crack down on cryptocurrencies, today China banned all crypto transactions. / VICE The Maricopa County recount funded by "Stop the Steal"
The FDA approves a Pfizer booster for people who are 65 or older or at high risk of severe Covid-19, including from their jobs. / The Wall Street Journal Over the last 30 days, the world has vaccinated one billion people. / Marginal Revolution A memorial in DC honors the number of
The FDA approves a Pfizer booster for people who are 65 or older or at high risk of severe Covid-19, including from their jobs. / The Wall Street Journal Over the last 30 days, the world has vaccinated one billion people. / Marginal Revolution A memorial in DC honors the number of
Human Rights Watch calls the Biden administration's immigration policies with regard to Haitian migrants "abusive and racially discriminatory." / Human Rights Watch "An unexpected $500 cost is a serious problem for many." What it's like to try and get an abortion in Texas
Human Rights Watch calls the Biden administration's immigration policies with regard to Haitian migrants "abusive and racially discriminatory." / Human Rights Watch "An unexpected $500 cost is a serious problem for many." What it's like to try and get an abortion in Texas
Canadians give Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a win in Monday's parliamentary elections, but his gamble to win a majority of seats fails. / The Associated Press The US will lift its travel ban for vaccinated travelers come November. / Quartz More people died in Alabama during 2020 than were born,
Canadians give Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a win in Monday's parliamentary elections, but his gamble to win a majority of seats fails. / The Associated Press The US will lift its travel ban for vaccinated travelers come November. / Quartz More people died in Alabama during 2020 than were born,
Conditions are dire at a makeshift camp in Texas for the approximately 13,000 migrants, mostly from Haiti, who are hoping to enter the US. / BuzzFeed News Related: An on-the-ground report of a day at the migrant camp. / Twitter As of yesterday, the US began flying migrants back to Haiti,
Conditions are dire at a makeshift camp in Texas for the approximately 13,000 migrants, mostly from Haiti, who are hoping to enter the US. / BuzzFeed News Related: An on-the-ground report of a day at the migrant camp. / Twitter As of yesterday, the US began flying migrants back to Haiti,
Following Russia's accusations of election meddling, Apple and Google have removed Navalny's tactical voting app from their stores. / Reuters The Wall Street Journal's new series on Facebook finds no evidence of any sort of good the company brings to the world. / Recode Related: Cue
Following Russia's accusations of election meddling, Apple and Google have removed Navalny's tactical voting app from their stores. / Reuters The Wall Street Journal's new series on Facebook finds no evidence of any sort of good the company brings to the world. / Recode Related: Cue
Helen Branswell live-blogs today’s FDA advisory panel meeting on Covid-19 booster shots. / STAT The debate over who deserves credit for pioneering mRNA technology is heating up. Hundreds of scientists have worked on it for decades. / Nature France suspends 3,000 health workers without pay for refusing a Covid vaccine.
Helen Branswell live-blogs today's FDA advisory panel meeting on the Covid-19 booster shots. / STAT The debate over who deserves credit for pioneering mRNA technology is heating up. Hundreds of scientists have worked on it for decades. / Nature France suspends 3,000 health workers without pay for refusing a
A new law in Poland barring restitution for Holocaust survivors takes effect today, during Yom Kippur. / THINK An incredibly detailed tool for calculating Covid risk for various activities based on location, vaccination status, and more. / microCOVID Valley fever, a fungal infection that can turn deadly, is on the rise in
A new law in Poland barring restitution for Holocaust survivors takes effect today, during Yom Kippur. / THINK An incredibly detailed tool for calculating Covid risk for various activities based on location, vaccination status, and more. / microCOVID Valley fever, a fungal infection that can turn deadly, is on the rise in
California Governor Newsom beats back the recall effort that dominated his third year in office. / The San Francisco Chronicle The list of politicians and activists excluded from Russia's upcoming elections reads like "a Who's Who of the Russian opposition." / BBC News A personal essay
California Governor Newsom beats back the recall effort that dominated his third year in office. / The San Francisco Chronicle The list of politicians and activists excluded from Russia's upcoming elections reads like "a Who's Who of the Russian opposition." / BBC News A personal essay
A guide to today's California recall election—and yes, Trump and Republicans are already saying there's fraud. / Wake Up to Politics See also: Right now the polls look good for Newsom. But you know, polls. / FiveThirtyEight "Serial plaintiffs are protected to litigate each of their
A guide to today's California recall election—and yes, Trump and Republicans are already saying there's fraud. / Wake Up to Politics See also: Right now the polls look good for Newsom. But you know, polls. / FiveThirtyEight "Serial plaintiffs are protected to litigate each of their
The last known missile fired by the United States in its 20-year war in Afghanistan appears to have killed a longtime worker for a US aid group and seven children. / The New York Times On that note: "A US military robot ship has fired a large missile for the
The last known missile fired by the United States in its 20-year war in Afghanistan appears to have killed a longtime worker for a US aid group and seven children. / The New York Times On that note: "A US military robot ship has fired a large missile for the
Serge Schmemann: "I Wrote the Lead Times Article on 9/11. Here's What Still Grips Me." / The New York Times As Ethiopia confronts a new year, Tigrays are accused of pillaging towns and killing supposed enemies. / AFP, The Telegraph Military leaders deposed Guinea's president
Serge Schmemann: "I Wrote the Lead Times Article on 9/11. Here's What Still Grips Me." / The New York Times As Ethiopia confronts a new year, Tigrays are accused of pillaging towns and killing supposed enemies. / AFP, The Telegraph Military leaders deposed Guinea's president
What to know about Biden's new vaccine mandates, which will apply to more than 80 million Americans. / USA Today Labor unions are backing vaccine mandates from Tyson Foods and Disney World. / Quartz As of today, Denmark's high vaccination rates have allowed the country to lift all
What to know about Biden's new vaccine mandates, which will apply to more than 80 million Americans. / USA Today Labor unions are backing vaccine mandates from Tyson Foods and Disney World. / Quartz As of today, Denmark's high vaccination rates have allowed the country to lift all
The White House releases a plan showing how the US could produce almost half of its electricity from solar power by 2050. / CNBC Burning fossil fuels must decline almost immediately, a new study finds, for us to avoid more extreme disasters. / NPR The world's largest "direct air
The White House releases a plan showing how the US could produce almost half of its electricity from solar power by 2050. / CNBC Burning fossil fuels must decline almost immediately, a new study finds, for us to avoid more extreme disasters. / NPR The world's largest "direct air
The Texas abortion ban is the latest in a long history of state officials' efforts to thwart women's health care. / The New York Times "I was used as an expert voice against vaccines." What it's like when anti-vaxxers weaponize your words. / The Guardian
The Texas abortion ban is the latest in a long history of state officials' efforts to thwart women's health care. / The New York Times "I was used as an expert voice against vaccines." What it's like when anti-vaxxers weaponize your words. / The Guardian
The US marks its 40 millionth Covid-19 case since the start of the pandemic, as delta continues to spread. / NBC News Helen Branswell covers the debate over vaccine boosters, what to call them, and whether they're needed. / STAT Advice for travelers reconsidering their trips in light of the
The US marks its 40 millionth Covid-19 case since the start of the pandemic, as delta continues to spread. / NBC News Helen Branswell covers the debate over vaccine boosters, what to call them, and whether they're needed. / STAT Advice for travelers reconsidering their upcoming trips in light of
We're headed out for the weekend. We'll see you on Tuesday. Be safe, be well. Going into Labor Day, the Forest Service is closing every national forest in California, citing the extraordinary risk of fires. / NPR Photos from the battle to stop the Caldor Fire from
We're headed out for the weekend. We'll see you on Tuesday! Despite Covid, India remains "very much on track" to achieve the world's fastest growth this year. / Bloomberg Who is to blame for Venezuela's vaccine crisis and black market? Mismanagement,
The final plane evacuating Americans from Afghanistan departs, ending the longest war in US history. / NBC News A timeline of America's involvement in Afghanistan from 1999 to the present. / Council on Foreign Relations "This is the least reported war since at least WWI." / Axios The Biden
The final plane evacuating Americans from Afghanistan departs, ending the longest war in US history. / NBC News A timeline of America's involvement in Afghanistan from 1999 to the present. / Council on Foreign Relations "This is the least reported war since at least WWI." / Axios The Biden
The United States evacuated 1,200 people out of Kabul from early Sunday into early Monday as the Aug. 31 deadline nears. / The Hill Anti-missile defences intercepted rockets fired at the airport this morning, as the US flew out its core diplomats. / Reuters Much of Louisiana is without power following
The United States evacuated 1,200 people out of Afghanistan from early Sunday into early Monday, with the Aug. 31 deadline looming. / The Hill Anti-missile defences intercepted rockets fired at the Kabul airport this morning, as the US flew out its core diplomats. / Reuters Stephen Walt: Why are so many
The Pentagon says it killed the planner of the Kabul airport attack. President Biden has been warned that additional attacks are likely. / USA Today, CNN Several of the American soldiers killed at the airport were babies when the US invaded Afghanistan in 2001. / The Guardian Lessons from Africa that apply
The Pentagon says it killed the planner of the Kabul airport attack. President Biden has been warned that additional attacks are likely. / USA Today, CNN Several of the US soldiers killed at the airport were babies when we invaded Afghanistan in 2001. / The Guardian Lessons from Africa that apply to
Satellite images and diagrams of the Kabul airport show the danger and complexity of the evacuations. / USA Today The US Supreme Court has ended the moratorium on residential evictions. / Reuters According to a study, light pollution disrupts moths' nocturnal behavior, resulting in a decline in caterpillars' numbers. / BBC
Satellite images and diagrams of the Kabul airport show the danger and complexity of the evacuations. / USA Today The US Supreme Court has ended the moratorium on residential evictions. / Reuters According to a study, light pollution disrupts moths' nocturnal behavior, resulting in a decline in caterpillars' numbers. / BBC
Complex bomb attacks at the Kabul airport kill many. The White House had been worried that ISIS-K, a sworn enemy of the Taliban, planned to carry out multiple attacks. / BBC News, CNN The story of how an Afghan interpreter and his family escaped Kabul. / NPR The founder of Blackwater has
Complex bomb attacks at the Kabul airport kill many. The White House had been worried that ISIS-K, a sworn enemy of the Taliban, planned to carry out multiple attacks. / BBC News, CNN The story of how an Afghan interpreter and his family escaped Kabul. / NPR The founder of Blackwater has
How the Trump administration's deal with the Taliban—"a concession without any clear precedent in US history"—and Biden's adherence to it sabotaged the Afghanistan withdrawal. / Foreign Affairs In a vaguely worded decision, the Supreme Court upholds a Texas judge's demand that
This week, we discuss the conclusion of Rivka Galchen's Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch—and it's time for you to vote on which of our August novels advances to our end-of-summer finale!
How the Trump administration's deal with the Taliban—"a concession without any clear precedent in US history"—and Biden's adherence to it sabotaged the Afghanistan withdrawal. / Foreign Affairs In a vaguely worded decision, the Supreme Court upholds a Texas judge's demand that
Hawaii's governor tells tourists to stay away amid a surge in COVID-19 infections on the islands. / The Hill With approval expected for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines in a month, Dr. Fauci predicts the US will have Covid under control by Spring 2022. / Reuters Afghan filmmaker
Hawaii's governor tells tourists to stay away amid a surge in Covid-19 infections on the islands. / The Hill With approval expected for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines in a month, Dr. Fauci predicts the US will have Covid under control by Spring 2022. / Reuters Afghan filmmaker
Biden's approval rating has dropped below 50% for the first time in his presidency, due to rising Covid cases and the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal. / NBC News Afghan evacuees may be housed at a Texas border facility previously used to hold migrant children, and that has already been deemed
Biden's approval rating has dropped below 50% for the first time in his presidency, due to rising Covid cases and the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal. / NBC News Afghan evacuees may be housed at a Texas border facility previously used to hold migrant children, and that has already been deemed
The Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine could receive full FDA approval as soon as Monday, a move some US corporations have cited as necessary for mandates. / CNBC For the first time in recorded history, rather than snowing, it rained at Greenland's summit. / CNN By thinking of Earth as just another
The Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine could receive full FDA approval as soon as Monday, a move some US corporations have cited as necessary for mandates. / CNBC For the first time in recorded history, rather than snowing, it rained at Greenland's summit. / CNN By thinking of Earth as just another
The Taliban are carrying out a door-to-door hunt for people who collaborated with the US and Western allies. / BBC News High-profile sportswomen in Afghanistan have been urged to wipe their social media and burn their uniforms. / The Guardian Sarah Zhang: The coronavirus is here forever. Here is how we live
The Taliban are carrying out a door-to-door hunt for people who collaborated with the US and Western allies. / BBC News High-profile sportswomen in Afghanistan have been urged to wipe their social media and burn their uniforms. / The Guardian Sarah Zhang: The coronavirus is here forever. Here is how we live
Statistically, the difference between states with 30% and 70% Covid vaccination rates is a nearly 40-fold increase in weekly cases. / Ars Technica The pandemic has changed abortion access, shifting from in-person visits to telemedicine—and legal challenges may lie ahead. / The New York Times As water shortages loom, towns across
Statistically, the difference between states with 30% and 70% Covid vaccination rates is a nearly 40-fold increase in weekly cases. / Ars Technica The pandemic has changed abortion access, shifting from in-person visits to telemedicine—and legal challenges may lie ahead. / The New York Times As water shortages loom, towns across
Five books down, one to go. This week, we start our final book of the season: Rivka Galchen's Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch.
Regional powers Russia, China, Iran and Pakistan express their interest in working with Afghanistan's new leaders. / Newsweek An all-girls Afghan robotics team inspired the world. "Now they're trapped, waiting to be rescued." / The Washington Post Remembering the civilian planes that airlifted refugees out of
Regional powers Russia, China, Iran, and Pakistan express their interest in working with Afghanistan's new leaders. / Newsweek An all-girls Afghan robotics team inspired the world. "Now they're trapped, waiting to be rescued." / The Washington Post Remembering the civilian planes that airlifted refugees out of
US health officials are likely to recommend Covid vaccine boosters eight months after recipients' second doses. / Associated Press Health officials are convincing skeptics to get vaccinated by telling them if they don't trust the government, they should talk with their doctor instead. / VICE A Chicago pharmacist has
US health officials are likely to recommend Covid vaccine boosters eight months after recipients' second doses. / Associated Press Health officials are convincing skeptics to get vaccinated by telling them if they don't trust the government, they should talk with their doctor instead. / VICE A Chicago pharmacist has
Chaos and desperate crowds at Kabul airport. Five people have been killed as people try to flee the Taliban. / The Guardian, Reuters "To blame Afghans for not getting their act together in light of… history is just wrong." / The New Yorker Officials in Haiti say at least 1,
Chaos and desperate crowds at Kabul airport. Five people have been killed as people try to flee the Taliban. / The Guardian, Reuters "To blame Afghans for not getting their act together in light of… history is just wrong." / The New Yorker Officials in Haiti say at least 1,
Helen Branswell: The FDA has authorized an additional dose of Pfizer and Moderna Covid vaccines for the immunocompromised. / STAT Good news from Chicago: Health officials say Lollapalooza doesn't appear to have been a superspreader event. / Slate "I think you have to live your best life. But be
Helen Branswell: The FDA has authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna Covid vaccines for the immunocompromised. / STAT Good news from Chicago: Health officials say Lollapalooza doesn't appear to have been a superspreader event. / Slate "You have to live your best life. But be cautious.
"The models in late spring were pretty consistent that we were going to have a 'normal' summer." Yes, Delta changed everything. / The Atlantic According to 2020 Census data released yesterday, the number of white people in the US has fallen for the first time since 1790.
"The models in late spring were pretty consistent that we were going to have a 'normal' summer." Yes, Delta changed everything. / The Atlantic According to 2020 Census data released yesterday, the number of white people in the US has fallen for the first time since 1790.
The delta variant is one of the most contagious respiratory viruses known. Is it as contagious as chicken pox? Not really. / NPR Parents in Japan are sending bags of rice that weigh the same as their newborn babies to relatives who are unable to visit. / The Guardian California will become
The delta variant is one of the most contagious respiratory viruses known. Is it as contagious as chicken pox? Not really. / NPR Parents in Japan are sending bags of rice that weigh the same as their newborn babies to relatives who are unable to visit. / The Guardian California will become
This week, we discuss the second half of Helen Oyeyemi's Peaces, and are left with even more questions than we had after the first half.
The White House prepares for Kabul to fall to the Taliban much sooner than feared. "They've got to fight for themselves," Biden said. / The Washington Post, BBC News Kathy Hochul will become New York's first female governor, following Andrew Cuomo's resignation for
The Senate appears to be on track to give final approval to the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure plan. / The Associated Press The EU mounts one of its largest ever firefighting operations to tackle wildfires in Italy and Greece. / The Guardian Half of all invasive species in the ocean have only
The US Senate appears to be on track to give final approval to a $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure plan. / The Associated Press The EU mounts one of its largest ever firefighting operations to tackle wildfires in Italy and Greece. / The Guardian Half of all invasive species in the ocean have
The Dixie Fire in Northern California is now estimated to be the second largest wildfire in state history. / NPR A new UN climate report cites recent extreme weather as further evidence of human-induced climate change—though swift action can still reverse some (but not all) effects. / BuzzFeed News See also:
The Dixie Fire in Northern California is now estimated to be the second largest wildfire in state history. / NPR A new UN climate report cites recent extreme weather as further evidence of human-induced climate change—though swift action can still reverse some (but not all) effects. / BuzzFeed News See also:
Scientists are detecting signs that the Gulf Stream may be collapsing. / The Guardian The US has returned to winter levels of daily Covid infections, averaging around 100,000 new cases a day. / Associated Press Related: If last year is any guide, Covid might surge in the fall and winter. Or
Scientists are detecting signs that the Gulf Stream may be collapsing. / The Guardian The US has returned to winter levels of daily Covid infections, averaging around 100,000 new cases a day. / Associated Press Related: If last year is any guide, Covid might surge in the fall and winter. Or
Moderna says a booster shot of its vaccine will be necessary to contend with the Delta variant going into winter. / The New York Times Mattel releases a Barbie doll of vaccinologist Sarah Gilbert, the scientist who designed the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid vaccine. / BBC News An argument for Project Bioshield as the
Moderna says a booster shot of its vaccine will be necessary to contend with the Delta variant going into winter. / The New York Times Mattel releases a Barbie doll of vaccinologist Sarah Gilbert, the scientist who designed the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. / BBC News An argument for Project Bioshield as the most
Mexico is suing American gun manufacturers, accusing them of facilitating a "deadly flood" of military-grade weapons to cartels. / The New York Times A majority of New York State Assembly members say they support impeachment if Cuomo doesn't resign. / Associated Press Niall Reddy: What happened last week
Mexico is suing American gun manufacturers, accusing them of facilitating a "deadly flood" of military-grade weapons to cartels. / The New York Times A majority of New York State Assembly members say they support impeachment if Cuomo doesn't resign. / Associated Press Niall Reddy: What happened last week
Starting in September, New York City will require people to prove they've been vaccinated to eat indoors, visit gyms, or go to theaters. / Vox For the moment, New York Governor Cuomo defies calls, including from President Biden, to resign. / The New York Times The Biden administration issues a
It's a new month and a new book matchup at Camp ToB 2021! This week, we embark on the mystery train of Helen Oyeyemi's Peaces.
Starting in September, New York City will require people to prove they've been vaccinated to eat indoors, visit gyms, or go to theaters. / Vox For the moment, New York Governor Cuomo defies calls, including from President Biden, to resign. / The New York Times The White House issues a
The rate of Covid-19 vaccinations in the United States continues to rise, a positive sign amid rising cases and hospitalizations. / CNN As of last week, nine states have enacted 11 laws with prohibitions on vaccine mandates (two each for Arizona and Arkansas). / NPR A Florida school district drops its mask
The rate of Covid vaccinations in the United States continues to climb, a positive sign amid rising cases and hospitalizations. / CNN As of last week, nine states have enacted 11 laws with prohibitions on vaccine mandates (two each for Arizona and Arkansas). / NPR A Florida school district drops its mask
Dozens of vaccinated staff at San Francisco hospitals developed Covid over the past six weeks. Good news? None have been so sick they need to be hospitalized. / The San Francisco Chronicle Everything you need to know about how the Delta variant works. / Nature An overview of last week's
Dozens of vaccinated staff at San Francisco hospitals developed Covid over the past six weeks. Good news? None have been so sick they need to be hospitalized. / The San Francisco Chronicle Everything you need to know about how the Delta variant works. / Nature An overview of last week's
The pace of US vaccinations is ticking upward as the delta variant drives up demand for shots. / CNBC Your weekend white paper: A study shows Ohio's Covid lottery preventing one infection for every six vaccinations the cash prizes successfully encouraged. / SSRN The mainstream media comes under fire for
The pace of US vaccinations is ticking upward as the delta variant drives up demand for shots. / CNBC Your weekend white paper: A study shows Ohio's Covid lottery preventing one infection for every six vaccinations the cash prizes successfully encouraged. / SSRN The mainstream media comes under fire for
According to the CDC, the Delta variant appears to spread as easily as measles and chickenpox. / CNN The life sciences sector is booming to the point that office space emptied by the pandemic is being converted into labs. / The New York Times "The BDSM industry is really big on
According to the CDC, the Delta variant appears to spread as easily as measles and chickenpox. / CNN The life sciences sector is booming to the point that office space emptied by the pandemic is being converted into labs. / The New York Times "The BDSM industry is really big on
The increase in government aid prompted by the coronavirus will cut poverty nearly in half this year from prepandemic levels. / The New York Times Congressional Republicans want to move on from the 2020 presidential election, but Trump won't let his party shift gears. / Slate Norman Lear is a
The bump in government aid prompted by the coronavirus will cut poverty nearly in half this year from prepandemic levels. / The New York Times Congressional Republicans want to move on from 2020, but Trump won't let his party shift gears. / Slate Norman Lear is a century old and
From 2051 to 2080, prolonged, record-breaking events are expected to become three to 21 times more probable. / The Verge Whether or not the human body can survive in our heat-riddled future comes down to humidity and wet-bulb temperatures. / Slate The fastest-growing places in the US are also some of the
This week we'll discuss the second half of Jhumpa Lahiri's Whereabouts. What will the change in seasons bring? More loneliness and misery? Plus, it's time to vote on which of our July novels will head to the summer finale.
From 2051 to 2080, prolonged, record-breaking events are expected to become three to 21 times more probable. / The Verge Whether or not the human body can survive in our heat-riddled future comes down to humidity and wet-bulb temperatures. / Slate The fastest-growing places in the US are also some of the
California, New York City, and the Department of Veterans Affairs announce that employees must get vaccinated or face weekly testing. / Politico Meanwhile, a restaurant in Huntington Beach says patrons must show proof of being unvaccinated. / The Orange County Register France approves a law requiring special virus passes for all domestic
California, New York City, and the Department of Veterans Affairs announce that employees must get vaccinated or face weekly testing. / Politico Meanwhile, a restaurant in Huntington Beach says patrons must show proof of being unvaccinated. / The Orange County Register France approves a law requiring special virus passes for all domestic
"All five influenza pandemics we have details about developed more virulent variants before settling down." A history of variants. / The Washington Post The very important differences between how vaccinated and unvaccinated bodies respond to Covid. / The Atlantic Now that Covid is endemic, like influenza, life expectancy in the
"All five influenza pandemics we have details about developed more virulent variants before settling down." A history of variants. / The Washington Post The very important differences between how vaccinated and unvaccinated bodies respond to Covid. / The Atlantic Now that Covid is endemic, like influenza, life expectancy in the
By tracking marsquakes, NASA's InSight mission has been able to create the first detailed map of the red planet's interior. / The New York Times "Broadcast TV morning shows spent nearly as much time on Jeff Bezos's space launch in one day than on
By tracking marsquakes, NASA's InSight mission has been able to create the first detailed map of the red planet's interior. / The New York Times "Broadcast TV morning shows spent nearly as much time on Jeff Bezos's space launch in one day than on
Photos and impressions from the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics Opening Ceremony. / The Japan Times A Spanish swimmer wanted to nurse her baby in Tokyo, but the rules are so "drastic," she chose to leave him home. / The Washington Post Kurt Streeter: The Olympics rely on, but don&
Photos and impressions from the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics Opening Ceremony. / The Japan Times A Spanish swimmer wanted her nursing baby in Tokyo, but the rules are so "drastic," she chose to leave him home. / The Washington Post Kurt Streeter: The Olympics rely on, but don'
Over the past two weeks, Covid cases in the US have nearly tripled. / Associated Press Success in driving down new Covid cases may have caused many Americans to forego vaccination. Unfortunately, it might take a new surge in deaths to make them reconsider. / The Atlantic "The FDA's
Over the past two weeks, Covid cases in the US have nearly tripled. / Associated Press Success in driving down new Covid cases may have caused many Americans to forego vaccination. Unfortunately, it might take a new surge in deaths to make them reconsider. / The Atlantic "The FDA's
Moving as briskly along as the summer heat allows, this week we're in Italy to discuss the first half of Jhumpa Lahiri's Whereabouts.
Will Hoenig: I think the reality of endemic Covid needs to be communicated to the world at this point. / Twitter If you're fully vaccinated, what's your risk of "long Covid" as the delta variant spreads? / The San Francisco Chronicle Helen Branswell: More than 200
Will Hoenig: I think the reality of endemic Covid needs to be communicated to the world at this point. / Twitter If you're fully vaccinated, what's your risk of "long Covid" as the delta variant spreads? / The San Francisco Chronicle Helen Branswell: More than 200
Yesterday, the UK reopened with "freedom day," even as new Covid cases surged by 41%. / The Guardian, NPR Also yesterday: The US State Dept. and CDC told Americans they should avoid traveling to the UK due to Covid infections. / Reuters With new Covid cases spreading across the US,
Yesterday, the UK reopened with "freedom day," even as new Covid cases surged by 41%. / The Guardian, NPR Also yesterday: The US State Dept. and CDC told Americans they should avoid traveling to the UK due to Covid infections. / Reuters With new Covid cases spreading across the US,
Journalists from multiple news groups present evidence of industrial-scale spying that targets reporters activists, politicians, and business executives around the world. / The Washington Post Here is an overview of the findings thus far. / PBS Oregon’s Bootleg fire grew to more than 476 square miles over the weekend, an area
Journalists from multiple news groups present evidence of industrial-scale spying that targets reporters, activists, politicians, and business executives around the world. / The Washington Post Here is an overview of the findings thus far. / PBS Oregon's Bootleg fire grew to more than 476 square miles over the weekend, an
The combination of more Delta and more unmasked, unvaccinated people means "your vaccine-induced immunity is challenged more often." / STAT Fewer than half of people in the U.S. ages 18 to 24 are fully vaccinated. / NBC News Rescuers race to find survivors of floods that have killed more
The combination of more Delta and more unmasked, unvaccinated people means "your vaccine-induced immunity is challenged more often." / STAT Fewer than half of people in the US ages 18 to 24 are fully vaccinated. / NBC News Rescuers race to find survivors of floods that have killed more than
The US surgeon general has published an advisory warning that vaccine misinformation is a "serious threat to public health." / CNN As coronavirus cases surge, Los Angeles County once again will require masks to be worn indoors. / Los Angeles Times After allegedly destroying a "Back the Blue"
The US surgeon general has published an advisory warning that vaccine misinformation is a "serious threat to public health." / CNN As coronavirus cases surge, Los Angeles County once again will require masks to be worn indoors. / Los Angeles Times After allegedly destroying a "Back the Blue"
One week before the Olympics, Tokyo reports its highest number of new Covid cases in almost six months. / ABC News A record number of French people sign up for vaccinations after being told they'll need them to return to cafés. Restaurant workers aren't thrilled about doing
One week before the Olympics, Tokyo reports its highest number of new Covid cases in almost six months. / ABC News A record number of French people sign up for vaccinations after being told they'll need them to return to cafés. Restaurant workers aren't thrilled about doing
Canada and Thailand defend mixing Covid vaccines after the World Health Organization's chief scientist calls the strategy "chaotic." / The Washington Post See also: Weed becomes the latest giveaway for vaccines in Long Beach. / The Long Beach Post Because they won't have to deal with
This week we discuss the back half of Kazuo Ishiguro's Klara and the Sun. If you thought the first half was fraught with ethical dilemmas, well, get ready to get thorny.
Canada and Thailand defend mixing Covid vaccines after the World Health Organization's chief scientist calls the strategy "chaotic." / The Washington Post Cannabis becomes the latest giveaway for vaccines in Long Beach. / The Long Beach Post Because they won't need to deal with Covid absences,
Vladimir Putin's United Russia party is loath to lock down ahead of fall elections, creating a Covid doom loop. / Foreign Policy David Wallace-Wells: Now is the time to rethink COVID safety protocols for children. / New York Magazine One couple's way of traveling (more) safely this summer:
Vladimir Putin's United Russia party is loath to lock down ahead of fall elections, creating a Covid doom loop. / Foreign Policy David Wallace-Wells: Now is the time to rethink COVID safety protocols for children. / New York Magazine One couple's way of traveling (more) safely this summer:
Asthma attacks plummeted during the pandemic, and researchers are now reconsidering the most common triggers. / The Atlantic Crypto traders are running into a big problem in trying to sue Binance for losses during a service outage: The company has no headquarters. / The Verge With his Wimbledon win yesterday, Novak Djokovic
Asthma attacks plummeted during the pandemic, and researchers are now reconsidering the most common triggers. / The Atlantic Crypto traders are running into a big problem in trying to sue Binance for losses during a service outage: The company has no headquarters. / The Verge With his Wimbledon win yesterday, Novak Djokovic
Thursday's dramatic flooding in New York City is a sign the city's infrastructure isn't prepared for future climate conditions. / The Guardian A tour of the "Anom" phone the FBI sold to unwitting criminals as part of a honeypot scheme. / VICE If the
Thursday's dramatic flooding in New York City is a sign the city's infrastructure isn't prepared for future climate conditions. / The Guardian A tour of the "Anom" phone the FBI sold to unwitting criminals as part of a honeypot scheme. / VICE If the
Several Asian countries rush to implement tough new restrictions to fight variants of the coronavirus. / The Associated Press Five undervaccinated clusters, mostly in the South, put the entire United States at risk. / CNN BLK, the dating app for single Black people, has a new song encouraging users to "vax
Several Asian countries rush to implement tough new restrictions to fight variants of the coronavirus. / The Associated Press Five undervaccinated clusters, mostly in the South, put the entire United States at risk. / CNN BLK, the dating app for single Black people, has a new song encouraging users to "vax
Last month was the warmest June on record for North America. / The Boston Globe Scientists say last week's Pacific Northwest heat wave would have been "virtually impossible" without climate change. / BuzzFeed News Another effect of climate change: Wild animals are shrinking in body size. / Vox How
Last month was the warmest June on record for North America. / The Boston Globe Scientists say last week's Pacific Northwest heat wave would have been "virtually impossible" without climate change. / BuzzFeed News Another effect of climate change: Wild animals are shrinking in body size. / Vox How
Helen Branswell runs through 12 lessons Covid-19 taught us about developing vaccines during a pandemic. / STAT Heathrow airport is trying fast-track lanes for fully-vaccinated arrivals. / BBC News ICU nurses in Appalachia who risked their lives during the pandemic feel like they fought a war that no one acknowledges. / The Washington
Helen Branswell runs through 12 lessons learned about developing vaccines during a pandemic. / STAT Heathrow airport is testing out fast-track lanes for fully-vaccinated arrivals. / BBC News ICU nurses in Appalachia who risked their lives during the pandemic feel like they fought a war that no one acknowledges. / The Washington Post
The world's poorest nations won't receive Covid vaccines for another two years. / Nature See also: How countries without adequate Covid vaccine access are simultaneously fighting the pandemic and negotiating for vaccines. / NPR "A 40-minute panoramic take on Jan. 6, the most complete visual depiction of
The world's poorest nations won't receive Covid vaccines for another two years. / Nature See also: How countries without adequate Covid vaccine access are simultaneously fighting the pandemic and negotiating for vaccines. / NPR "A 40-minute panoramic take on Jan. 6, the most complete visual depiction of
As we leave June behind for hot, sunny July, this week we discuss the first half of Kazuo Ishiguro's Klara and the Sun.
TMN is heading out early to beat the holiday traffic. See you Tuesday. Canada broke its temperature record for a third straight day on Tuesday, with dozens of heat-related fatalities. / BBC News The World Health Organization certifies that China is malaria-free. / Quartz The Delta variant is forcing public health officials
TMN is heading out early to beat the traffic. See you Tuesday. TK NEWS TK NEWS For escape during the next pandemic? A new "yacht liner" is stocked with three dozen condos that are said to retail for $11 million each. / The Daily Mail The rise and fall
The UN calls for global action on reparations, citing institution racism against people of African descent in North America, Europe, and Latin America. / BBC In a victory for trans student rights, the Supreme Court declines to revisit a lower court's decision on a case that began seven years
The UN calls for global action on reparations, citing institution racism against people of African descent in North America, Europe, and Latin America. / BBC In a victory for trans student rights, the Supreme Court declines to revisit a lower court's decision on a case that began seven years
As of Sunday night, 152 people are unaccounted for and 134 are accounted for in the collapse of Surfside's Champlain Towers. / CNN Surfside's chief building official told residents the condominium was "in very good shape" after reading a report that flagged major structural damage.
As of Sunday night, 152 people are unaccounted for and 134 are accounted for in the collapse of Surfside's Champlain Towers. / CNN Surfside's chief building official told residents the condominium was "in very good shape" after reading a report that flagged major structural damage.
The Pentagon has released its long-awaited UFO report, detailing 143 sightings, most—but not all—of which are probably equipment malfunctions. / VICE X-Files creator Chris Carter says the government's new UFO report reveals more about who we are than whether aliens exist. / The New York Times Oklahoma City
The Pentagon has released its long-awaited UFO report, detailing 143 sightings, most—but not all—of which are probably equipment malfunctions. / VICE X-Files creator Chris Carter says the government's new UFO report reveals more about who we are than whether aliens exist. / The New York Times Oklahoma City
Rescuers search for survivors trapped in the rubble of a collapsed 12-story residential building north of Miami. / BBC News "It just doesn't happen. You don't see buildings falling down in America." / The Miami Herald More Americans quit their jobs in May than any other
Rescuers search for survivors trapped in the rubble of a collapsed 12-story residential building north of Miami. / Al Jazeera "It just doesn't happen. You don't see buildings falling down in America." / The Miami Herald More Americans quit their jobs in May than any other
The US intelligence community thinks Afghanistan's government may collapse as soon as six months after US troops withdraw. / The Hill Related: Ahead of US troops' departure, some members of Congress are urging the White House to evacuate Afghans who aided the US. / Associated Press The Saudi Royal
The US intelligence community thinks Afghanistan's government may collapse as soon as six months after US troops withdraw. / The Hill Related: Ahead of US troops' departure, some members of Congress are urging the White House to evacuate Afghans who aided the US. / Associated Press The Saudi Royal
We wrap up the discussion on our second book of June—and it's time to vote for which of this month's books you want to send to our end-of-summer finale!
The Chinese government has organized a campaign to produce and spread thousands of videos in which citizens deny Beijing’s abuses against their communities. / ProPublica Morgan Stanley plans to bar unvaccinated staff from its New York headquarters. / BBC News Junaid Nabi: Vaccine hesitancy and refusal in the US are a
The Chinese government has quietly produced and spread thousands of videos in which citizens deny Beijing's abuses against their communities. / ProPublica Morgan Stanley plans to bar unvaccinated staff from its New York headquarters. / BBC News Junaid Nabi: Vaccine hesitancy and refusal in the US are a sign of
The Supreme Court unanimously agreed that the NCAA's limits on the ways schools compensate athletes violate antitrust laws. / BuzzFeed News A new report finds algorithmic bias in medicine is influencing nearly every aspect of how patients are treated. / STAT "I procured more than 60 inches worth of
The Supreme Court unanimously agreed that the NCAA's limits on the ways schools compensate athletes violate antitrust laws. / BuzzFeed News A new report finds algorithmic bias in medicine is influencing nearly every aspect of how patients are treated. / STAT "I procured more than 60 inches worth of
A new poll shows a majority of Americans are open to a progressive police reform bill. / Vox Politicians around the world are borrowing Trump’s “Stop the Steal” tactics. / The Atlantic The Barstool-ification of the GOP could reconfigure its cultural politics for a generation. / Politico Fareed Zakaria: The decay of
A new poll shows a majority of Americans are open to a progressive police reform bill. / Vox Politicians around the world are borrowing Trump's "Stop the Steal" tactics. / The Atlantic The Barstool-ification of the GOP could reconfigure its cultural politics for a generation. / Politico Fareed Zakaria:
We're off tomorrow in observance of Juneteenth, and will return on Monday. The Delta variant is on the rise in the US, and could further cleave the nation by surging in areas with higher unvaccinated populations—but barely registering elsewhere. / BuzzFeed News How the pandemic is an example
We're off tomorrow in observance of Juneteenth, and will return on Monday. The Delta variant is on the rise in the US, and could further cleave the nation by surging in areas with higher unvaccinated populations—but barely registering elsewhere. / BuzzFeed News How the pandemic is an example
Biden is now set to sign into law the bill that will make Juneteenth a federal holiday. / Associated Press How will teachers explain to students why they have the day off in states that are banning critical race theory in classrooms? / BuzzFeed News An Alabama lawmaker who wants to ban
To celebrate the release of Everything Now by TMN co-founder Rosecrans Baldwin, we're partnering with his publisher to give away a skateboard.
Biden is now set to sign into law the bill that will make Juneteenth a federal holiday. / Associated Press How will teachers explain to students why they have the day off in states that are banning critical race theory in classrooms? / BuzzFeed News An Alabama lawmaker who wants to ban
This week we begin discussing our second book of the summer, Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters.
An emboldened President Biden meets an unbothered Vladimir Putin—but they both find themselves craving some predictability. / The Washington Post Unrelated: A new computer simulation shows that a technologically advanced civilization can colonize a galaxy in a modest amount of time. / Gizmodo At the height of the pandemic, workers were
An emboldened President Biden meets an unbothered Vladimir Putin. Both may find themselves craving some predictability. / The Washington Post Unrelated: A new simulation shows that an advanced civilization can colonize a galaxy in a modest amount of time. / Gizmodo At the height of the pandemic in the US, workers were
President Biden and European Union leaders reach a deal to end a 17-year-old trade dispute. / The Washington Post The uncrewed aerial vehicle business is booming thanks to regulators starting to relax laws that govern drones. / The Economist Reality Winner, a former intelligence contractor jailed for leaking classified information, has been
President Biden and European Union leaders reach a deal to end a 17-year-old trade dispute. / The Washington Post The uncrewed aerial vehicle business is booming thanks to regulators starting to relax laws that govern drones. / The Economist Reality Winner, a former intelligence contractor jailed for leaking classified information, has been
Covid cases are no longer falling in the US, due to a slowing vaccination rate as well as the more contagious and severe Delta variant. / The New York Times Related: US governors are assessing whether to keep emergency orders in place. / Associated Press "They were so close, they weren&
Covid cases are no longer falling in the US, due to a slowing vaccination rate as well as the more contagious and severe Delta variant. / The New York Times Related: US governors are assessing whether to keep emergency orders in place. / Associated Press "They were so close, they weren&
Between Friday afternoon and Saturday morning, four shooting incidents killed at least two people and injured at least 34 in Austin, Dallas, Savannah, and Chicago. / CNN Trump's Dept. of Justice secretly subpoenaed Apple to hand over metadata on some members of the House Intelligence Committee. / The Verge See
Between Friday afternoon and Saturday morning, four shooting incidents killed at least two people and injured at least 34 in Austin, Dallas, Savannah, and Chicago. / CNN Trump's Dept. of Justice secretly subpoenaed Apple to hand over metadata on some members of the House Intelligence Committee. / The Verge See
A new outbreak of the coronavirus suggests that lockdown measures could be a part of Chinese life for some time to come. / The New York Times More children and adolescents are experiencing chronic symptoms after Covid even as the pandemic ebbs in the US. / STAT Researchers hope that work on
A new outbreak of the coronavirus suggests that lockdown measures could be a part of Chinese life for some time to come. / The New York Times More children and teenagers are experiencing chronic symptoms after Covid even as the pandemic ebbs in the US. / STAT Researchers hope that work on
The number of undocumented migrants at the US-Mexico border has reached its highest number—180,034—since April 2000. / BBC These are the countries the State Dept. says vaccinated Americans can travel to—though there's no guarantee they'll be let in. / Quartz June appears to be
The number of undocumented migrants at the US-Mexico border has reached its highest number—180,034—since April 2000. / BBC These are the countries the State Dept. says vaccinated Americans can travel to—though there's no guarantee they'll be let in. / Quartz June appears to be
In which we discuss the conclusion of Patricia Lockwood's No One Is Talking About This, in which we became very invested.
ProPublica publishes tax and income details of people like Jeff Bezos and Warren Buffett to expose how the wealthy avoid income tax. / ProPublica As a result, internal and external investigations are beginning—to find out who leaked. / The Wall Street Journal Your weekly white paper: Less educated citizens in democracies
ProPublica publishes tax and income details of people like Jeff Bezos and Warren Buffett to expose how the wealthy avoid income tax. / ProPublica As a result, internal and external investigations are beginning—to find out who leaked. / The Wall Street Journal Your weekly white paper: Less educated citizens in democracies
According to the NOAA, there was "no discernible" change in carbon emissions during the pandemic. / USA Today A sinking ship near Sri Lanka carried 78 metric tons of plastic pellets that now pose unimaginable environmental consequences. / NPR The Justice Dept. has recovered $2.3 million of the ransom
According to the NOAA, there was "no discernible" change in carbon emissions during the pandemic. / USA Today A sinking ship near Sri Lanka carried 78 metric tons of plastic pellets that now pose unimaginable environmental consequences. / NPR The Justice Dept. has recovered $2.3 million of the ransom
Major Indian states that were virus hotpots are easing restrictions as Covid numbers continue to fall. / BBC News A study of federal pandemic aid finds the largest benefits going to the poorest households and those with children. / The New York Times One unexpected upside of the pandemic: The flu virus
Major Indian states that were virus hotpots are easing restrictions as Covid numbers continue to fall. / BBC News A study of federal pandemic aid says the largest benefits went to the poorest households and those with children. / The New York Times One unexpected upside of the pandemic: The flu virus
As the vaccination rollout continues, many people have embraced group activities, while many others are entering a new phase of anxiety. / The New Yorker Related/unrelated: “‘I took part in the psilocybin trial and it changed my life.” / The Independent The Army Corps of Engineers recommends a 20-foot, six-mile seawall
As the vaccination rollout continues, many people have embraced group activities, while many others are entering a new phase of anxiety. / The New Yorker Related/unrelated: "'I took part in the psilocybin trial and it changed my life." / The Independent The Army Corps of Engineers recommends a
The NIH director says states with vaccination rates below 70% are at increased risk for future outbreaks. / CNN See also: Charts and maps show how Covid cases are declining across the US. / BuzzFeed News Say what you will—and many have—about the AstraZeneca vaccine, but it was instrumental in
The NIH director says states with vaccination rates below 70% are at increased risk for future outbreaks. / CNN See also: Charts and maps show how Covid cases are declining across the US. / BuzzFeed News Say what you will—and many have—about the AstraZeneca vaccine, but it was instrumental in
The president of Tokyo 2020 says the Olympics will go ahead “100 percent,” though perhaps without spectators. / BBC News American and Southwest Airlines won’t resume serving alcohol until passengers stop attacking their flight attendants. / Food & Wine Movie theater chain AMC offers free popcorn to retail investors in response
The president of Tokyo 2020 says the Olympics will go ahead "100 percent," though perhaps without spectators. / BBC News American and Southwest Airlines won't resume serving alcohol until passengers stop attacking their flight attendants. / Food & Wine Movie theater chain AMC offers free popcorn to retail
Camp ToB 2021 is officially in session! This week, we're discussing the first half of Patricia Lockwood's No One Is Talking About This.
Innovative shifts in manufacturing processes have resulted in huge profit windfalls—and now, massive supply shortages globally. / The New York Times A recruiter explains why restaurants really can’t find enough staff. “Restaurants are just going to have to pay people more or have better benefits.” / Washingtonian Related: “The Post-Covid-19
Innovative shifts in manufacturing processes have resulted in huge profit windfalls—and now, massive supply shortages globally. / The New York Times A recruiter explains why restaurants really can't find enough staff. "Restaurants are just going to have to pay people more or have better benefits." / Washingtonian
Vietnam says it has detected a highly transmissible new variant of the coronavirus that’s helping fuel a new wave of infections. / The Washington Post As Covid dissipates in the US, cold and flu viruses may return with a vengeance. / STAT Millions of people registered with Dr. B for a
We're taking a long weekend to rest and will resume publishing on Wednesday (the same day Camp ToB 2021 commences). See you then! Helen Branswell: As Covid dissipates in the US, cold and flu viruses may return with a vengeance. / STAT Millions of people registered with Dr. B
It’s entirely possible that most Covid deaths could occur after there are enough vaccines to protect those most at risk globally. / The New York Times See also: “Coronavirus Variant Excited To Compete With World’s Top Mutations In Tokyo This Summer.” / The Onion “It absolutely has not processed yet.
It's entirely possible that most Covid deaths could occur after there are enough vaccines to protect those most at risk globally. / The New York Times See also: "Coronavirus Variant Excited To Compete With World's Top Mutations In Tokyo This Summer." / The Onion "It
President Biden tells the US intelligence community to redouble its efforts in investigating the origins of Covid-19 and report back in 90 days. / CNN Daniel Engber: The shift in public thinking about the lab leak theory is "all the more remarkable for its lack of any major associated revelations.
President Biden tells the US intelligence community to redouble its efforts in investigating the origins of Covid-19 and report back in 90 days. / CNN Daniel Engber: The shift in public thinking about the lab leak theory is "all the more remarkable for its lack of any major associated revelations.
The Wuhan "lab leak" theory suddenly goes mainstream, leading to renewed calls for a real investigation. / The Washington Post Jonathan Chait: Notice how the media originally dismissed the theory and smeared its supporters. / New York Magazine Maggie Haberman: The media was responding to Trump making it instantly political.
The Wuhan "lab leak" theory suddenly goes mainstream, leading to renewed calls for a real investigation. / The Washington Post Jonathan Chait: Notice how the media originally dismissed the theory and smeared its supporters. / New York Magazine Maggie Haberman: The media was responding to Trump making it instantly political.
After being deployed on Jan. 6, the National Guard will fully depart the US Capitol grounds this week. / The Washington Post Texas Gov. Abbott is set to sign a bill that will allow Texans to carry handguns without a license. / The Texas Tribune "White tears hit different in a
After being deployed on Jan. 6, the National Guard will fully depart the US Capitol grounds this week. / The Washington Post Texas Gov. Abbott is set to sign a bill that will allow Texans to carry handguns without a license. / The Texas Tribune "White tears hit different in a
Helen Branswell: Here’s how the Covid pandemic in the United States reaches its end. / STAT Stores in the US begin to give away their abundance of hand sanitizer. “It’s worth more to us gone.” / The Wall Street Journal Kaitlyn Tiffany: We’ve just lived through the most online
Helen Branswell: Here's how the Covid pandemic in the United States reaches its end. / STAT Stores in the US start to give away their abundance of hand sanitizer. "It's worth more to us gone." / The Wall Street Journal Kaitlyn Tiffany: We've just
In 2020, more than twice as many folks were displaced within their own country by climate disaster as were forced out as refugees. / The Guardian “We think we’re taught history. But we’re really taught propaganda.” Geography is the chessboard of history. / Uncharted Territories Israeli population cartography incorporated Palestinians
In 2020, more than twice as many folks were displaced within their own country by climate disaster as were forced out as refugees. / The Guardian "We think we're taught history. But we're really taught propaganda." Geography is the chessboard of history. / Uncharted Territories Israeli
Federal prosecutors say there was a "leadership meeting" among right-wing extremists in the days leading up to Jan. 6. / BuzzFeed News See also: "All your 1/6 Commission questions, answered." / Wake Up to Politics If you don't think Republicans can minimize the Jan. 6
Federal prosecutors say there was a "leadership meeting" among right-wing extremists in the days leading up to Jan. 6. / BuzzFeed News See also: "All your 1/6 Commission questions, answered." / Wake Up to Politics If you don't think Republicans can minimize the Jan. 6
As fighting winds down in a ruined Syria, Iran and Russia compete for influence and spoils of war. / The Washington Post A senior official with Hamas says he expects a ceasefire with Israel "within a day or two." / BBC News Analysis of the Israeli leadership’s grim status
As fighting winds down in a ruined Syria, Iran and Russia compete for influence and the spoils of war. / The Washington Post A senior official with Hamas says he expects a ceasefire with Israel "within a day or two." / BBC News Analysis of the Israeli leadership's
As US Covid cases reach their lowest levels in a year, India just set the new global record for daily coronavirus deaths. / CNN, Associated Press The five profiles that capture Americans' attitudes toward the Covid vaccine: the enthusiast, the watchful, the cost-anxious, the system distruster, and the Covid skeptic.
As US Covid cases reach their lowest levels in a year, India just set the new global record for daily coronavirus deaths. / CNN, Associated Press The five profiles that capture Americans' attitudes toward the Covid vaccine: the enthusiast, the watchful, the cost-anxious, the system distruster, and the Covid skeptic.
The US will release an additional 20 million doses of Covid vaccines, bringing the total being shipped out to 80 million. / Yahoo! News Generation Z showed improved mental health during the start of the pandemic. Why? Better sleep and more time with family. Meanwhile, veterinarians report feeling toasted. / The Wall
The US will release an additional 20 million doses of Covid vaccines, bringing the total being shipped out to 80 million. / Yahoo! News Generation Z showed improved mental health during the start of the pandemic. Why? Better sleep and more time with family. Meanwhile, veterinarians report feeling toasted. / The Wall
The CDC defends its latest mask guidance, and says the decision wasn't influenced by political pressure. / PBS Related: Scientists say you're going to want to hold onto your masks for when cold and flu season rolls around. / STAT Australia could reopen its international border by the
The CDC defends its latest mask guidance, and says the decision wasn't influenced by political pressure. / PBS Related: Scientists say you're going to want to hold onto your masks for when cold and flu season rolls around. / STAT Australia could reopen its international border by the
Today, after the Israeli military ordered the building evacuated, an airstrike destroyed the AP and Al Jazeera offices in Gaza City. / Associated Press As the Israeli-Palestinian violence continues to escalate, the White House hasn't taken a meaningful public stand. / NPR See also: How social media misinformation is further
Today, after the Israeli military ordered the building evacuated, an airstrike destroyed the AP and Al Jazeera offices in Gaza City. / Associated Press As the Israeli-Palestinian violence continues to escalate, the White House hasn't taken a meaningful public stand. / NPR See also: How social media misinformation is further
The CDC says people fully vaccinated against Covid-19 can safely participate in indoor and outdoor activities without a mask. Meanwhile, Singapore re-imposes Covid curbs. / STAT, Reuters “Is it OK to ask someone for proof of vaccination status?” “Is oral sex more Covid-safe than kissing?” And other questions to guide the
The CDC says people vaccinated against Covid can participate in indoor and outdoor activities without a mask. Meanwhile, Singapore re-imposes Covid curbs. / STAT, Reuters "Is oral sex more Covid-safe than kissing?" And other questions to guide the horny summer. / The Guardian South Korean couples in their 20s and
Unlike in previous conflicts, Israeli politicians are blaming the incumbent government for the escalating crisis. / The New York Times See also: Last month, Human Rights Watch accused Israel of committing "crimes against humanity" in its treatment of Palestinians. / NPR Instagram removed content about one of Islam's
Unlike in previous conflicts, Israeli politicians are blaming the incumbent government for the escalating crisis. / The New York Times See also: Last month, Human Rights Watch accused Israel of committing "crimes against humanity" in its treatment of Palestinians. / NPR Instagram removed content about one of Islam's
Dozens are killed—mostly Palestinians—as Hamas and Israel approach war. "We have not seen this kind of violence since October 2000." / The Economist, The Washington Post What led to the escalation? The forced expulsion of Palestinian families from an East Jerusalem neighborhood. / Al Jazeera Ezra Klein interviews
Dozens are killed—mostly Palestinians—as Hamas and Israel approach war. "We have not seen this kind of violence since October 2000." / The Economist, The Washington Post What led to the escalation? The forced expulsion of Palestinian families from an East Jerusalem neighborhood. / Al Jazeera Ezra Klein interviews
In an escalation of violence between Gaza and Israel, 24 people—including nine children—were killed, most in Israeli airstrikes. / Associated Press America's energy infrastructure is a patchwork of internet-connected and legacy equipment—creating vulnerabilities that can be exploited, as evidenced by the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack. / The Washington
In an escalation of violence between Gaza and Israel, 24 people—including nine children—were killed, most in Israeli airstrikes. / Associated Press America's energy infrastructure is a patchwork of internet-connected and legacy equipment—creating vulnerabilities that can be exploited, as evidenced by the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack. / The Washington
India’s coronavirus infections and deaths hold close to record daily highs, increasing calls for a nationwide lockdown. / Reuters The Lancet blasts the Indian government for ignoring warnings of a second wave and failing to be transparent on Covid data. / Lancet See also: What it’s like to be a
India's coronavirus infections and deaths hold close to record daily highs, increasing calls for a nationwide lockdown. / Reuters The Lancet blasts the Indian government for ignoring warnings of a second wave and failing to be transparent on Covid data. / Lancet See also: What it's like to
President Biden’s separation from past Democratic presidents reflects an evolution in thinking among economists and “a bet that boldness may be a better political strategy than moderation.” / The Atlantic Making the case for a new Reconstruction Finance Corporation—to become “a new bulwark for states and cities against the
President Biden's separation from past Democratic presidents reflects an evolution in economists' thinking and "a bet that boldness may be a better political strategy than moderation." / The Atlantic Making the case for a new Reconstruction Finance Corporation—to become "a new bulwark for states
Together, Florida and Texas represent 70 Electoral College votes. This week, Republicans in both states have passed—or are ready to pass—new voting restrictions. / The New York Times Related: A breakout of the limits included in each state's bill. / Wake Up to Politics A postmortem on Bernie
Together, Florida and Texas represent 70 Electoral College votes. This week, Republicans in both states have passed—or are ready to pass—new voting restrictions. / The New York Times Related: A breakout of the limits included in each state's bill. / Wake Up to Politics A postmortem on Bernie
The White House backs a World Trade Organization proposal to waive intellectual property protections for Covid-19 vaccines. / NPR Alex Tabarrok says patents are not the problem! Helen Branswell says it’s more of a symbolic milestone anyway. / Marginal Revolution, STAT Canada is the first to authorize Pfizer’s vaccine for
The White House backs a World Trade Organization proposal to waive intellectual property protections for Covid vaccines. / NPR Alex Tabarrok says patents are not the problem! Helen Branswell says it's more of a symbolic milestone anyway. / Marginal Revolution, STAT Canada is the first to authorize Pfizer's
The number of US births has fallen to its lowest level since 1979. / CBS News What's changing Covid vaccine skeptics' minds: loved ones, trusted figures, and not thinking about Will Smith's I Am Legend. / The Washington Post Related: A demographic breakout of the three kinds
The number of US births has fallen to its lowest level since 1979. / CBS News What's changing Covid vaccine skeptics' minds: loved ones, trusted figures, and not thinking about Will Smith's I Am Legend. / The Washington Post Related: A demographic breakout of the three kinds
The FDA plans to authorize Pfizer’s Covid vaccine for adolescents aged 12 to 15 by early next week. / Ars Technica A plan to waive patents to enable other countries to make generic vaccines wins some backers in the Biden administration. It might just be in our best interest. / The
The FDA plans to authorize the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid vaccine for adolescents aged 12 to 15 by early next week. / Ars Technica A plan to waive patents to enable other countries to make generic vaccines wins some backers in the Biden administration. It might just be in our best interest.
Arundhati Roy: "[India's] government has failed. Perhaps 'failed' is an inaccurate word, because what we are witnessing is not criminal negligence, but an outright crime against humanity." / The Guardian See also: What's happening in India is what happens when rich people do
Arundhati Roy: "[India's] government has failed. Perhaps 'failed' is an inaccurate word, because what we are witnessing is not criminal negligence, but an outright crime against humanity." / The Guardian See also: What's happening in India is what happens when rich people do
Starting Tuesday, Biden will restrict travel from India, as the country deals with a second wave of Covid infections. / NBC News "Knowing something is safe and feeling safe are very different things." On post-vax anxiety. / The Atlantic Advertised as a way to keep your vaccination details handy, fake
Starting Tuesday, Biden will restrict travel from India, as the country deals with a second wave of Covid infections. / NBC News "Knowing something is safe and feeling safe are very different things." On post-vax anxiety. / The Atlantic Advertised as a way to keep your vaccination details handy, fake
President Biden is on track for the strongest stock market performance during a new president's first 100 days since John F. Kennedy in 1961. / CNN John Harris: Biden’s address to Congress was the most ambitious ideological statement made by any Democratic president in decades. / Politico Rammesh Ponnuru:
President Biden is on track for the strongest stock market performance during a new president's first 100 days since John F. Kennedy in 1961. / CNN John Harris: Biden's address to Congress was the most ambitious ideological statement made by any Democratic president in decades. / Politico Rammesh
The FBI seized phones and computers yesterday from Giuliani's apartment, as part of an investigation into his dealings in Ukraine. / The New York Times The Justice Dept. has brought federal hate crimes charges against the three men who murdered Ahmaud Arbery while he was jogging in February 2020.
The FBI seized phones and computers yesterday from Giuliani's apartment, as part of an investigation into his dealings in Ukraine. / The New York Times The Justice Dept. has brought federal hate crimes charges against the three men who murdered Ahmaud Arbery while he was jogging in February 2020.
President Joe Biden will announce a $1.8 trillion spending proposal tonight aimed at assisting American families and lifting millions out of poverty. / The Washington Post “If secondhand cars are getting cheaper and rentals are easy to book, then the US is making progress.” / Bloomberg Related: In Hawaii, a shortage
President Biden will announce a $1.8 trillion spending proposal tonight aimed at assisting American families and lifting millions out of poverty. / The Washington Post "If secondhand cars are getting cheaper and rentals are easy to book, then the US is making progress." / Bloomberg Related: In Hawaii, a
According to the new Census report, over the past decade the US population grew at its second slowest rate since 1790, due to less immigration and a declining birthrate. / The New York Times The numbers are also in on redistricting, and California and New York are among the states that
According to the new Census report, over the past decade the US population grew at its second slowest rate since 1790, due to less immigration and a declining birthrate. / The New York Times The numbers are also in on redistricting, and California and New York are among the states that
President Biden will mark his 100th day in office on Friday. Some brief analysis of how he compares to Franklin D. Roosevelt, who set the (arbitrary) benchmark. / Wake Up to Politics Health officials around the country resume offering Johnson & Johnson’s Covid-19 vaccine. / The Wall Street Journal A vaccine
President Biden will mark his 100th day in office on Friday. Some brief analysis of how he compares to Franklin D. Roosevelt, who set the (arbitrary) benchmark. / Wake Up to Politics Health officials around the country resume offering Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine. / The Wall Street Journal A
US health officials reinstate the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which will now have a warning label about the rare risk of blood clots. / The Washington Post The Biden administration says healthcare workers no longer need to ration N95 masks, and should return to a one-mask-per-patient policy. / Associated Press If you
US health officials reinstate the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which will now have a warning label about the rare risk of blood clots. / The Washington Post The Biden administration says healthcare workers no longer need to ration N95 masks, and should return to a one-mask-per-patient policy. / Associated Press If you
Following two days of daily global records of new Covid cases, India now faces a devastating oxygen shortage, with some hospitals hours away from depletion. / The Guardian Four possible pandemic endings, from the best (vaccines restore normality) to the worst (variants revive the pandemic). / BuzzFeed News See also: New research
Following two days of daily global records of new Covid cases, India now faces a devastating oxygen shortage, with some hospitals hours away from depletion. / The Guardian Four possible pandemic endings, from the best (vaccines restore normality) to the worst (variants revive the pandemic). / BuzzFeed News See also: New research
Derek Chauvin was found guilty on all counts in the death of George Floyd. / Star Tribune The conviction is exceedingly rare. For the sake of comparison, police officers are prosecuted for murder in less than 2% of fatal shootings. / Vox See also: The Chauvin verdict isn't justice. But
Derek Chauvin was found guilty on all counts in the death of George Floyd. / Star Tribune The conviction is exceedingly rare. For the sake of comparison, police officers are prosecuted for murder in less than 2% of fatal shootings. / Vox See also: The Chauvin verdict isn't justice. But
Deaths from Covid-19 are accelerating globally. "It took nine months to reach 1 million deaths, four months to reach 2 million and three months to reach 3 million deaths." / Vox, CNN Rising cases push German hospitals to the limit. Meanwhile, English beer gardens have never been so busy.
Deaths from Covid-19 are accelerating globally. "It took nine months to reach 1 million deaths, four months to reach 2 million and three months to reach 3 million deaths." / Vox, CNN Rising cases push German hospitals to the limit. Meanwhile, English beer gardens have never been so busy.
The closing arguments are happening right now in the Derek Chauvin trial for the killing of George Floyd. / CNN "Since testimony in Derek Chauvin's trial began on March 29, more than three people a day have died at the hands of law enforcement." / The New York
The closing arguments are happening right now in the Derek Chauvin trial for the killing of George Floyd. / CNN "Since testimony in Derek Chauvin's trial began on March 29, more than three people a day have died at the hands of law enforcement." / The New York
Three million people worldwide have now died of Covid-19. / Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center Current vaccination rates show states that had larger shares of Trump voters in 2020 are likely to have more vaccine-hesitant adults. / The New York Times "Man accidentally gets one Moderna and one Pfizer COVID vaccine.
Three million people worldwide have now died of Covid-19. / Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center Current vaccination rates show states that had larger shares of Trump voters in 2020 are likely to have more vaccine-hesitant adults. / The New York Times "Man accidentally gets one Moderna and one Pfizer COVID vaccine.
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Eight people were shot and killed in a shooting late Thursday at a FedEx facility. A list of recent mass shootings in the United States. / The Associated Press Toure: We interrupt our coverage of the protests of the police murder of Daunte Wright which interrupted the trial of the police
Eight people were killed in a shooting late Thursday at a FedEx facility. A list of recent mass shootings in the United States. / The Associated Press Toure: "We interrupt our coverage of the protests of the police murder of Daunte Wright which interrupted the trial of the police murder
A US health panel has requested more data before deciding how and whether to resume use of Johnson & Johnson's Covid vaccine. / Reuters The CDC has found that keeping the middle seats open on airlines could limit passengers' Covid exposure by a third. / BuzzFeed News Health investigators
A US health panel has requested more data before deciding how and whether to resume use of Johnson & Johnson's Covid vaccine. / Reuters The CDC has found that keeping the middle seats open on airlines could limit passengers' Covid exposure by a third. / BuzzFeed News Health investigators
The United States, European Union, and South Africa pause the Johnson & Johnson rollout—a relatively common event in the world of vaccines. / ABC News, Quartz Joan Walsh: Anyone worried that the pause may sow vaccine hesitancy should be more concerned about how ignoring medical issues provides grist for the
The United States, European Union, and South Africa pause the Johnson & Johnson rollout—a relatively common event in the world of vaccines. / ABC News, Quartz Joan Walsh: Anyone worried that the pause may sow vaccine hesitancy should be more concerned about how ignoring medical issues provides grist for the
Federal authorities recommend states pause use of the Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine while investigators try to find out what caused clotting problems. / STAT Biden has yet to make good on his plan to raise the annual refugee cap above Trump's historically low 15,000. / The Washington Post
Federal authorities recommend states pause use of the Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine while investigators try to find out what caused clotting problems. / STAT Biden has yet to make good on his plan to raise the annual refugee cap above Trump's historically low 15,000. / The Washington Post
India produces most of the world's vaccine doses but its own vaccination drive appears to be struggling. / BBC News Covid-19 is fueling a “Zoom-boom” in face-lifts and lip-plumping. Meanwhile, beauty filters are said to be changing the way that young girls see themselves. / The Economist, MIT Technology Review
India produces most of the world's vaccine doses but its own vaccination drive appears to be struggling. / BBC News Covid-19 is fueling a "Zoom-boom" in face-lifts and lip-plumping. Meanwhile, beauty filters are said to be changing the way that young girls see themselves. / The Economist, MIT
Parts of the United States may be close to meeting demand for the coronavirus vaccine—”well before the country has reached herd immunity.” / Axios Countries around the world hit new records for virus cases and deaths. / The Associated Press Scientists work toward an elusive dream: a simple pill to treat
Parts of the United States may be close to meeting demand for the coronavirus vaccine—well before the country has reached herd immunity. / Axios Countries around the world hit new records for virus cases and deaths. / The Associated Press Scientists work toward an elusive dream: a simple pill to treat
In March, US authorities took 172,331 migrants into custody at the Mexico border—the most people in nearly two decades, including a record number of unaccompanied minors. / The Washington Post Biden announces steps to curb gun violence, including regulations on untraceable guns and allowing law enforcement to remove guns
In March, US authorities took 172,331 migrants into custody at the Mexico border—the most people in nearly two decades, including a record number of unaccompanied minors. / The Washington Post Biden announces steps to curb gun violence, including regulations on untraceable guns and allowing law enforcement to remove guns
Scientists and researchers call for a new investigation—with or without China’s participation—into Covid-19’s origins. / US World & News Report Six months after being diagnosed with Covid, one in three patients experiences a psychiatric or neurological illness. / STAT See also: Your Nespresso pods can be converted into
Scientists and researchers call for a new investigation—with or without China's participation—into the origins of Covid-19. / US World & News Report Six months after being diagnosed with Covid, one in three patients experiences a psychiatric or neurological illness. / STAT See also: Your Nespresso pods can be
Biden moves up the deadline for states to open Covid vaccinations for all adults, to April 19. / CNBC A new "double mutant" strain of Covid that may be behind a surge of cases in India has now been detected in the US. / The Hill In the US, "
Biden moves up the deadline for states to open Covid vaccinations for all adults, to April 19. / CNBC A new "double mutant" strain of Covid that may be behind a surge of cases in India has now been detected in the US. / The Hill In the US, "
More than four million people in the United States received a coronavirus vaccine on Saturday amid a rising caseload and increase in hospitalizations. / The Washington Post At the same time, more than six million people have taken flights since Thursday, many of them spring breakers. "America appears to be
More than four million people in the United States received a coronavirus vaccine on Saturday amid a rising caseload and increase in hospitalizations. / The Washington Post At the same time, more than six million people have taken flights since Thursday, many of them spring breakers. "America appears to be
The CDC says fully vaccinated people can safely travel at "low risk to themselves." / BuzzFeed News It's unclear whether the US is now entering a fourth Covid wave, or simply another pandemic upswing. / The Washington Post Scientists worry the UK's new Covid-risk traffic-light plan
The CDC says fully vaccinated people can safely travel at "low risk to themselves." / BuzzFeed News It's unclear whether the US is now entering a fourth Covid wave, or simply another pandemic upswing. / The Washington Post Scientists worry the UK's new Covid-risk traffic-light plan
President Biden will announce a $2 trillion package of infrastructure spending to be paid for by a substantial increase in corporate taxes. / The New York Times Why isn't the Federal Reserve more worried about inflation? Because even if the economy booms again, it's still in bad
President Biden will announce a $2 trillion package of infrastructure spending to be paid for by a substantial increase in corporate taxes. / The New York Times Why isn't the Federal Reserve more worried about inflation? Because even if the economy booms again, it's still in bad
Deborah Birx, the coronavirus response coordinator under President Trump, says most deaths in the US could have been prevented. / The Washington Post The CDC director warns of "impending doom" as Covid cases tick upward in the United States. / The Week Senate Minority Leader McConnell urges Republican men to
Deborah Birx, the coronavirus response coordinator under President Trump, says most deaths in the US could have been prevented. / The Washington Post The CDC director warns of "impending doom" as Covid cases tick upward in the United States. / The Week Senate Minority Leader McConnell urges Republican men to
The trial of Derek Chauvin begins this week with the whole world watching. / The Guardian Juvenile incarceration is down generally, but many young people in facilities have gone months without seeing their families. / NPR After violent crime plummeted during the pandemic, Baltimore decides to continue to decline prosecution of drug
The trial of Derek Chauvin begins this week with the whole world watching. / The Guardian After violent crime plummeted during the pandemic, Baltimore decides to continue to decline prosecution of drug possession, prostitution, minor traffic, and misdemeanor cases. / The Washington Post Juvenile incarceration is down generally, but many young people
Dominion Voting Systems has filed a $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox News. / Associated Press Biden on Georgia's new voting restrictions: "This is Jim Crow in the 21st century. It must end. We have a moral and constitutional obligation to act." / The Washington Post The
Dominion Voting Systems has filed a $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox News. / Associated Press Biden on Georgia's new voting restrictions: "This is Jim Crow in the 21st century. It must end. We have a moral and constitutional obligation to act." / The Washington Post The
The coronavirus’s "psychological grip on the US has weakened" thanks to pandemic fatigue, warmer weather, and the surge in vaccinations. / The Washington Post What to make of the AstraZeneca vaccine data—and the surrounding controversy. / STAT New analysis finds that fear-mongering articles connecting vaccines and death have
The coronavirus's psychological grip on the US is said to have weakened thanks to pandemic fatigue, warmer weather, and the surge in vaccinations. / The Washington Post What to make of the AstraZeneca vaccine data—and the surrounding controversy. / STAT New analysis finds that fear-mongering articles connecting vaccines and
A new study asserts the US national news coverage of Covid-19 has been "much more negative than coverage by" scientific journals, major international publications, and regional media. / The New York Times Every state’s vaccine website measured for accessibility and privacy protections. / The Markup Behind the scenes, companies
A new study asserts the US national news coverage of Covid-19 has been "much more negative" than coverage by scientific journals, major international publications, and regional media. / The New York Times See also: Every state's vaccine website measured for accessibility and privacy protections. / The Markup Behind
The EU finalizes new rules that will likely severely cut vaccine exports to Britain and other countries to ease supply shortages at home. / The New York Times Germany announces an intensified coronavirus lockdown going into Easter. "We are now basically in a new pandemic." / NPR Some 60% of
The EU finalizes new rules that will likely cut vaccine exports to Britain and other countries to ease supply shortages at home. / The New York Times Germany announces an intensified coronavirus lockdown going into Easter. "We are now basically in a new pandemic." / NPR Some 60% of Americans
In less than a week, the news media is again reporting on a mass shooting. This time, the scene is in Colorado. / The New York Times, The Associated Press "I've been a reporter in Colorado for 11 years (including four in college) and this is at least
In less than a week, the news media is again reporting on a mass shooting. This time, the scene is in Colorado. / The New York Times, The Associated Press "I've been a reporter in Colorado for 11 years (including four in college) and this is at least
The outer fencing erected around the Capitol was removed this weekend. Still, the legislative branch remains “toxic and unsettled.” / CNN, The Associated Press Charges against officers in the Capitol riot ignite concerns about extremists working in law enforcement. / USA Today A new video shows how Capitol police tried and failed
The outer fencing erected around the Capitol was removed this weekend. Still, the legislative branch remains "toxic and unsettled." / CNN, The Associated Press Charges against officers in the Capitol riot fuel concerns about extremists working in law enforcement. / USA Today A new video shows how Capitol police tried
Another of Cuomo's current aides has come forward with claims of sexual harassment by the governor. / The New York Times See also: The surprise isn't that Cuomo is embroiled in scandals, but that he's finally being held to account for the toxicity he'
Another of Cuomo's current aides has come forward with claims of sexual harassment by the governor. / The New York Times See also: The surprise isn't that Cuomo is embroiled in scandals, but that he's finally being held to account for the toxicity he'
The United States plans to send millions of doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine to Mexico and Canada. Meanwhile, Europe resumes its use. / The Wall Street Journal, CNBC Did the EU halt on AstraZeneca increase vaccine hesitancy? / Marginal Revolution "It's really hard to go back on on a
The United States plans to send millions of doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine to Mexico and Canada. Meanwhile, Europe resumes its use. / The Wall Street Journal, CNBC Did the EU's halt on AstraZeneca increase vaccine hesitancy? / Marginal Revolution "It's really hard to go back on
The UN Conference on Trade and Development revises its global growth forecast from 4.3% to 4.7% for this year. / Reuters Two recent studies quantify the consequences of flooding hospitals with Covid patients. / NPR Post-pandemic advertising is coming up fast, but brands are wary of celebrating prematurely. / Vox Related:
The UN Conference on Trade and Development revises its global growth forecast from 4.3% to 4.7% for this year. / Reuters Two recent studies quantify the consequences of flooding hospitals with Covid patients. / NPR Post-pandemic advertising is coming up fast, but brands are wary of celebrating prematurely. / Vox Related:
Shootings killed eight people at three massage parlors in Atlanta. Six of the victims were Asian American women. / The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, CNN Graphs show lifestyle and mental health disruptions during Spring 2020. / Twitter In early January, a secretive scramble took place inside the White House: political appointees trying to crash
Shootings killed eight people at three massage parlors in Atlanta. Six of the victims were Asian American women. / The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, CNN In early January, a scramble took place inside the White House: political appointees trying to crash the vaccination list. / Vanity Fair Six reasons why the Covid-19 vaccines were
A cascading number of European countries have halted distributing the AstraZeneca/Oxford Covid-19 vaccine over concerns about blood clotting. / The Associated Press More than 17 million people have received the AZ vaccine. As of March 8, only 37 people subsequently developed blood clots. / Quartz The EU's medicine regulator
A cascading number of European countries have halted distributing the AstraZeneca/Oxford Covid-19 vaccine over concerns about blood clotting. / The Associated Press More than 17 million people have received the AZ vaccine. As of March 8, only 37 people subsequently developed blood clots. / Quartz The EU's medicine regulator
The White House is about to unveil a billion-dollar PR campaign aimed at convincing every American to get vaccinated. / STAT A large Facebook study on users’ doubt in vaccines finds a small group appears to play a big role in pushing skepticism. / The Washington Post Congress has its own supply
The White House is about to unveil a billion-dollar PR campaign aimed at convincing every American to get vaccinated. / STAT A large Facebook study on users' doubt in vaccines finds a small group appearing to play a big role in pushing skepticism. / The Washington Post Congress has its own
The Justice Dept. says its Capitol attack investigation "will likely be one of the largest in American history, both in terms of the number of defendants prosecuted and the nature and volume of the evidence." / NPR New York congressional Democrats, now including Schumer and Gillibrand, are calling on
The Justice Dept. says its Capitol attack investigation "will likely be one of the largest in American history, both in terms of the number of defendants prosecuted and the nature and volume of the evidence." / NPR New York congressional Democrats, now including Schumer and Gillibrand, are calling on
Dexter Filkins assesses the state of negotiations in Afghanistan amid an ongoing assassination campaign (possibly from both sides). / The New Yorker Statistics reveal that the police in South Africa are substantially more violent than those in the US. / Africa Is a Country In France, the Redouane case represents the agonizing
Dexter Filkins assesses the state of negotiations in Afghanistan amid an ongoing assassination campaign (possibly from both sides). / The New Yorker Statistics reveal that the police in South Africa are substantially more violent than those in the US. / Africa Is a Country In France, the Redouane case represents the futility
Today marks the one-year anniversary of coronavirus taking hold in the United States. An oral history of where people were, from the Oval Office to the Utah Jazz locker room. / WIRED, BuzzFeed News Readers share the final picture they took before the coronavirus was declared a pandemic. / NBC News Ramesh
Today marks the one-year anniversary of the coronavirus taking hold in the United States. An oral history of where people were, from the Oval Office to the Utah Jazz locker room. / WIRED, BuzzFeed News Readers share the final picture they took before the coronavirus was declared a pandemic. / NBC News
White House officials prepare a sprawling sales campaign designed to draw attention to the benefits of President Biden’s Covid-relief package. / Politico “Many Republican politicians conservative commentators had other priorities in recent days.” / The Associated Press Both administrations deserve credit for the vaccine rollout, although “neither wants to grant much
White House officials prepare a campaign designed to draw attention to the benefits of President Biden's Covid-relief package, being voted on today by the House. / Politico, CNN "Many Republican politicians and conservative commentators had other priorities in recent days." / The Associated Press Both administrations deserve credit
The Centers for Disease Control grants fully vaccinated Americans more freedom to socialize and engage in routine daily activities. / The Washington Post In the last week, an average of 2.17 million doses per day were administered. / Bloomberg A new Pew Research survey finds public intent to get vaccinated is
The Centers for Disease Control grants fully vaccinated Americans more freedom to socialize and engage in routine daily activities. / The Washington Post In the last week, an average of 2.17 million doses per day were administered. / Bloomberg A new Pew Research survey finds public intent to get vaccinated is
It was around this week last year that CNN began to use the term “pandemic” to describe the outbreak. / CNN See also: Comments from Fox’s Sean Hannity around that time. / Twitter To travel backward a bit further, here’s Ed Yong in 2018: “The Next Plague Is Coming. Is
It was around this week last year that CNN began to use the term "pandemic" to describe the outbreak. / CNN Comments from Fox's Sean Hannity from around that time. / Twitter To travel backward a bit further, here's Ed Yong in 2018: "The Next
The Senate has passed Biden's $1.9 trillion Covid relief bill. / CNBC Details on the legislation: Lower caps on who receives checks, no minimum wage hike. / Vox Biden is currently polling around 10 points higher than Trump ever did. / The New York Times A lack of presidential landslides,
The Senate has passed Biden's $1.9 trillion Covid relief bill. / CNBC Details on the legislation: Lower caps on who receives checks, no minimum wage hike. / Vox Biden is currently polling around 10 points higher than Trump ever did. / The New York Times A lack of presidential landslides,
The Senate moves towards passage of President Joe Biden's $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package. / The Washington Post Action was delayed after Sen. Ron Johnson called for a reading of the 628-page bill. / Vox What a "vote-a-rama" is and what it means for Biden's
The Senate moves towards passage of President Joe Biden's $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package. / The Washington Post Action was delayed after Sen. Ron Johnson called for a reading of the 628-page bill. / Vox What a "vote-a-rama" is and what it means for Biden's
The House of Representatives is closed today out of concern that QAnon believers—who believe Trump is to be restored to power on March 4—may attempt to storm the Capitol. / BBC, the Week An intelligence bulletin discusses extremists' plans to "take control of the US Capitol...on
The House of Representatives is closed today out of concern that QAnon believers—who believe Trump is to be restored to power on March 4—may attempt to storm the Capitol. / BBC, the Week An intelligence bulletin discusses extremists' plans to "take control of the US Capitol...on
Gov. Greg Abbott says it's time to "open Texas 100%" and end the statewide mask order. / Austin American-Statesman Companies like General Motors, Toyota, Target, and Macy’s say their Texas employees will keep their masks on, thank you very much. / Reuters Meanwhile: Houston is the first
Gov. Greg Abbott says it's time to "open Texas 100%" and end the statewide mask order. / Austin American-Statesman Companies like General Motors, Toyota, Target, and Macy's say their Texas employees will keep their masks on, thank you very much. / Reuters Meanwhile: Houston is the
The Biden administration will allow families separated at the border under Trump to reunite and settle in the US. / POLITICO Reporters Without Borders accuses Crown Prince Mohammed of crimes against humanity in connection with the murder of Jamal Khashoggi and the prosecution of other journalists. / The Hill A third person
The Biden administration will allow families separated at the border under Trump to reunite and settle in the US. / POLITICO Reporters Without Borders accuses Crown Prince Mohammed of crimes against humanity in connection with the murder of Jamal Khashoggi and the prosecution of other journalists. / The Hill A third person
A steady decline in new coronavirus cases in the United States appears to have stalled. / The Washington Post Zeynep Tufekci lays out five key fallacies and pitfalls that have affected public-health messaging. / The Atlantic Vaccine refusal is actually a portfolio of issues—dissent, deliberation, distrust—requiring a portfolio of strategies.
A steady decline in new coronavirus cases in the United States appears to have stalled. / The Washington Post Zeynep Tufekci lays out five key fallacies and pitfalls that have affected public-health messaging. / The Atlantic Vaccine refusal is actually a portfolio of issues—dissent, deliberation, distrust—requiring a portfolio of strategies.
US intelligence concludes Prince Mohammed approved the assassination of Jamal Khashoggi, but the Biden administration says penalizing him would risk American interests. / The New York Times This morning, the House passed the $1.9 trillion pandemic relief package. The bill now heads to the Senate, where debate is expected to
US intelligence concludes Prince Mohammed approved the assassination of Jamal Khashoggi, but the Biden administration says penalizing him would risk American interests. / The New York Times This morning, the House passed the $1.9 trillion pandemic relief package. The bill now heads to the Senate, where debate is expected to
The House of Representatives votes on the $1.9 trillion stimulus bill today. It has already lost its minimum wage provision. / CNBC, NPR Anne Helen Petersen: The future of the middle class depends on student loan forgiveness. / Vox Related: The inhumanity of America's minimum wage, as told by
The House of Representatives votes on the $1.9 trillion stimulus bill today. The bill already lost its minimum wage provision. / CNBC, NPR Anne Helen Petersen: The future of the middle class depends on student loan forgiveness. / Vox Related: The inhumanity of America's minimum wage, as told by
US regulators find the single-shot Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine to be safe and effective, paving the way for it to be authorized within days. / BBC News A sweeping new Covid-19 data platform offers access to more than 5 million anonymized records from 160 countries. / STAT Helen Lewis: The scarcity
US regulators find the single-shot Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine to be safe and effective, paving the way for it to be authorized within days. / BBC News A sweeping new Covid-19 data platform offers access to more than 5 million anonymized records from 160 countries. / STAT Helen Lewis: The scarcity
A federal judge has banned Biden's 100-day moratorium on deportations, but did not require them to resume at their previous pace. / Associated Press The Biden administration has reopened a Trump-era facility in Texas to hold migrant teens. / The Washington Post Related: "Biden unveils cool teen migrant detainment
A federal judge has banned Biden's 100-day moratorium on deportations, but did not require them to resume at their previous pace. / Associated Press The Biden administration has reopened a Trump-era facility in Texas to hold migrant teens. / The Washington Post Related: "Biden unveils cool teen migrant detainment
The United States' Covid-19 death toll passes half a million people. Mourners share stories of their loved ones on an Instagram post from the White House. / BBC News, Instagram Unrelated: Four years of stories from employees at DC's Trump Hotel, where directions for pouring the former president&
The United States' Covid-19 death toll passes half a million people. Mourners share stories of their loved ones on an Instagram post from the White House. / BBC News, Instagram Unrelated: Four years of stories from employees at DC's Trump Hotel, where directions for pouring the former president&
In February 2011, frigid temperatures took down part of Texas's power infrastructure. Officials ignored the warnings, setting the state up for last week's disaster. / BuzzFeed News After the 2011 freeze, El Paso—which isn't on the same grid as most of Texas—prepared its
In February 2011, frigid temperatures took down part of Texas's power infrastructure. Officials ignored the warnings, setting the state up for last week's disaster. / BuzzFeed News After the 2011 freeze, El Paso—which isn't on the same grid as most of Texas—prepared its
Dozens of Texans died during this week's winter storm, but the true death toll won't be known for weeks or months. / The Texas Tribune Last year, Texas utility regulators cut ties with a group that had been hired to monitor and enforce reliability standards—including weatherization
Dozens of Texans died during this week's winter storm, but the true death toll won't be known for weeks or months. / The Texas Tribune Last year, Texas utility regulators cut ties with a group that had been hired to monitor and enforce reliability standards—including weatherization
The Biden administration pledges $4 billion to a coronavirus vaccination program for poorer countries. Boris Johnson pledges to donate most of the UK's surplus supply. / Reuters, BBC A 90-year-old woman walks six miles through snow to get her vaccine. / The New York Times A "vaccine passport"
The Biden administration pledges $4 billion to a coronavirus vaccination program for poorer countries. Boris Johnson pledges to donate most of the UK's surplus supply. / Reuters, BBC A 90-year-old woman walks six miles through the snow to get her vaccine. / The New York Times A "vaccine passport&
Millions in Texas are now under a boil-water notice. / NPR This morning, Texas's energy authority announced all controlled outages have ended, and local utility companies may now begin restoring power as they see fit. / KXAN Republicans are trying to blame Texas's power grid failure on wind
Millions in Texas are now under a boil-water notice. / NPR This morning, Texas's energy authority announced all controlled outages have ended, and local utility companies may now begin restoring power as they see fit. / KXAN Republicans are trying to blame Texas's power grid failure on wind
Millions in Texas are still without power, while more snow and ice are expected to sweep across the South and East in the coming days. / The New York Times "It's worse than a hurricane. I think we are going to be more days without light, that is
Millions in Texas are still without power, while more snow and ice are expected to sweep across the South and East in the coming days. / The New York Times "It's worse than a hurricane. I think we are going to be more days without light, that is
Amid record low temperatures in Texas, more than four million people remain without power. / NBC News "It limped along on underinvestment and neglect until it finally broke under predictable circumstances." What broke the Texas power grid? / Houston Chronicle See also: Why does Texas have its own power grid,
Amid record low temperatures in Texas, more than four million people remain without power. / NBC News "It limped along on underinvestment and neglect until it finally broke under predictable circumstances." What broke the Texas power grid? / Houston Chronicle See also: Why does Texas have its own power grid,
Two days before Presidents Day, the Senate acquits former President Trump of inciting an insurrection (no matter Sen. McConnell's condemnation afterward). / POLITICO, Vox The vast majority of Republicans standing by Trump is "a clear indication of the firm—if slightly weakened—grip that he retains on the
Two days before Presidents Day, the Senate acquits former President Trump of inciting an insurrection (no matter Sen. McConnell's condemnation afterward). / POLITICO, Vox The vast majority of Republicans standing by Trump is "a clear indication of the firm—if slightly weakened—grip that he retains on the
Republican senators face a historic choice after both sides in the impeachment trial of former President Trump rest their case. / The Hill A desire to "overwhelm the problem" has become the mantra for President Biden's Covid team. / The Associated Press Fwiw: Inadequate healthcare killed 461,000
Republican senators face a historic choice after both sides in the impeachment trial of former President Trump rest their case. / The Hill A desire to "overwhelm the problem" has become the mantra for President Biden's Covid team. / The Associated Press Fwiw: Inadequate healthcare killed 461,000
Biden says the US will have enough doses by July to inoculate 300 million Americans. / Associated Press Fauci: In April, "virtually everybody and anybody, in any category, could start to get vaccinated." / People About 40% of America's coronavirus deaths could have been prevented, says a new
Biden says the US will have enough doses by July to inoculate 300 million Americans. / Associated Press Fauci: In April, "virtually everybody and anybody, in any category, could start to get vaccinated." / People About 40% of America's coronavirus deaths could have been prevented, says a new
Today’s newsletter was delayed by a technical glitch. Sorry about that! The Biden administration is considering whether to impose domestic travel restrictions, including on Florida, to contain coronavirus mutations. / The Miami Herald The UK government defends its threat of a 10-year jail term for anyone found to have falsified
Today’s newsletter was delayed by a technical glitch. Sorry about that! The Biden administration is considering whether to impose domestic travel restrictions to contain coronavirus mutations. / The Miami Herald The UK government defends its threat of a 10-year jail term for anyone found to have falsified their recent travel
The Senate voted 56 to 44 to proceed with Trump's impeachment trial, rejecting the argument that the trial is unconstitutional. / The Washington Post Takeaways from the first day of Trump's trial, which included a shocking video montage of what happened on Jan. 6. (Warning: graphic content)
The Senate voted 56 to 44 to proceed with Trump's impeachment trial, rejecting the argument that the trial is unconstitutional. / The Washington Post Takeaways from the first day of Trump's trial, which included a shocking video montage of what happened on Jan. 6. (Warning: graphic content)
A team of WHO scientists in China says the coronavirus likely first spread to humans through an animal. / The Guardian A new study finds that people with dementia are at significantly greater risk of contracting Covid-19 and suffering its worst outcomes. / The New York Times. Texas Republican Ron Wright becomes
A team of WHO scientists in China says the coronavirus likely first spread to humans through an animal. / The Guardian A new study finds that people with dementia are at significantly greater risk of contracting Covid-19 and suffering its worst outcomes. / The New York Times. Texas Republican Ron Wright becomes
The WHO says Ebola has returned in an area of Congo that was one of the epicenters of the second-largest outbreak. / Bloomberg Biden refuses to lift economic sanctions on Iran unless it complies with the 2015 nuclear deal. Khamenei says sanctions must be eased first. / BBC Demand remains lower, but
The WHO says Ebola has returned in an area of Congo that was one of the epicenters of the second-largest outbreak. / Bloomberg Biden refuses to lift economic sanctions on Iran unless it complies with the 2015 nuclear deal. Khamenei says sanctions must be eased first. / BBC Demand remains lower, but
"This is the definition of defamation." Legal experts weigh in on voting software company Smartmatic's $2.7 billion lawsuit against Fox News. / CNN Following the Smartmatic lawsuit, Fox News cancels Lou Dobbs Tonight, its highest-rated show and a promoter of Trump's election fraud claims.
"This is the definition of defamation." Legal experts weigh in on voting software company Smartmatic's $2.7 billion lawsuit against Fox News. / CNN Following the Smartmatic lawsuit, Fox News cancels Lou Dobbs Tonight, its highest-rated show and a promoter of Trump's election fraud claims.
Ed Yong: How Covid-19 has changed science this past year—and offered the industry an opportunity for self-correction. / The Atlantic Scientists have been overwhelmed by media attention lately. Some advice (for anybody, really) on how to engage. / Science Helen Branswell: Don't believe everything you hear about the AstraZeneca
Ed Yong: How Covid-19 has changed science this past year—and offered the industry an opportunity for self-correction. / The Atlantic Scientists have been overwhelmed by media attention lately. Some advice (for anybody, really) on how to engage. / Science Helen Branswell: Don't believe necessarily what you hear about the
Israel becomes the first country where vaccinations are beginning to drive down Covid numbers. / BuzzFeed News The side effects of the Covid vaccine's second dose are a feature, not a bug. / The Atlantic Anti-vaxxers are using a long-standing database of vaccine side effects to spread misinformation about Covid
Israel becomes the first country where vaccinations are beginning to drive down Covid numbers. / BuzzFeed News The side effects of the Covid vaccine's second dose are a feature, not a bug. / The Atlantic Anti-vaxxers are using a long-standing database of vaccine side effects to spread misinformation about Covid
Why rich countries should foot the bill for the world’s vaccination: to save several trillion dollars. / The New Yorker Now trending: Criminals selling forged negative Covid-19 test results to people looking to bypass travel restrictions. / CNBC Dr. Fauci urges Americans to “lay low” and not hold Super Bowl parties
Why rich countries should foot the bill for the world’s vaccination: to save several trillion dollars. / The New Yorker Now trending: Criminals selling forged negative Covid-19 test results to people looking to bypass travel restrictions. / CNBC Dr. Fauci urges Americans to “lay low” and not hold Super Bowl parties
Following the deadliest month of the pandemic so far, US cases and hospitalizations are plummeting. / Associated Press Also: "More Americans have now received at least one dose [of the vaccine] than have tested positive for the virus since the pandemic began." / Bloomberg An interactive simulation shows when America
Following the deadliest month of the pandemic so far, US cases and hospitalizations are plummeting. / Associated Press Also: "More Americans have now received at least one dose [of the vaccine] than have tested positive for the virus since the pandemic began." / Bloomberg An interactive simulation shows when America
David Leonhardt: The news about the vaccines continues to be excellent—and public discussion of it continues to be more negative than the facts warrant. / The New York Times On Saturday, anti-vax protesters disrupted operations at Dodger Stadium’s mass vaccination site. / The Los Angeles Times See also: A Chick-fil-A
David Leonhardt: The news about the vaccines continues to be excellent—and public discussion of it continues to be more negative than the facts warrant. / The New York Times On Saturday, anti-vax protesters disrupted operations at Dodger Stadium’s mass vaccination site. / The Los Angeles Times See also: A Chick-fil-A
Video shows the suspect believed to have planted pipe bombs at the RNC and DNC headquarters the night before the Capitol insurrection. / The Washington Post A reporter's terrifying, minute-by-minute account of being in the Senate during the Jan. 6 attacks. / Poynter The CDC mandates that masks will be
Video shows the suspect believed to have planted pipe bombs at the RNC and DNC headquarters the night before the Capitol insurrection. / The Washington Post A reporter's terrifying, minute-by-minute account of being in the Senate during the Jan. 6 attacks. / Poynter The CDC mandates that masks will be
Johnson & Johnson's Covid vaccine is only 66% effective at preventing moderate to severe illness, but appears to be 100% effective at preventing hospitalization or death. / STAT Covid can trigger antibodies that attack a patient's own tissues—rather than the virus—in a condition that can
Johnson & Johnson's Covid vaccine is only 66% effective at preventing moderate to severe illness, but appears to be 100% effective at preventing hospitalization or death. / STAT Covid can trigger antibodies that attack a patient's own tissues—rather than the virus—in a condition that can
The world surpasses 100 million confirmed cases of the coronavirus, a figure almost unimaginable 12 months ago. / CNN U.S. coronavirus hospitalizations have been declining since Jan. 12. / The Wall Street Journal A day in the life, in photos, at Dodger Stadium’s mass vaccination site. Unfortunately, a different story
The world surpasses 100 million confirmed cases of the coronavirus, a figure almost unimaginable 12 months ago. / CNN Virus-related hospitalizations in the US have been declining since Jan. 12. / The Wall Street Journal A day in the life, in photos, at Dodger Stadium’s mass vaccination site. Unfortunately, a different
Battle lines form in President Biden’s effort to address the climate crisis: unlikely allies in corporate America, opposition from senators in fossil-fuel states. / The New York Times The government’s fleet of 600,000-plus vehicles is about to go all-American, all-electric. / Jalopnik Unrelated: A picture of a 1954 Swallow
Battle lines form in President Biden’s effort to address the climate crisis: unlikely allies in corporate America, opposition from senators in fossil-fuel states. / The New York Times The government’s fleet of 600,000-plus vehicles is about to go all-American, all-electric. / Jalopnik Unrelated: A picture of a 1954 Swallow
President Biden says he’s hopeful that the US soon can ramp up its capacity to administer 1.5 million vaccine shots daily. / POLITICO In just a month, Israel has vaccinated over a quarter of its 9.2 million people. / The Associated Press One Israeli healthcare group reports a 60
President Biden says he’s hopeful that the US soon can ramp up its capacity to administer 1.5 million vaccine shots daily. / POLITICO In just a month, Israel has vaccinated over a quarter of its 9.2 million people. / The Associated Press One Israeli healthcare group reports a 60
The US reaches 25 million cases of Covid-19. Now it's a race between vaccines and variants. / CNN The White House restricts entry of non-US citizens from the UK, South Africa, and Brazil, where new Covid strains have emerged. / CNBC Why scientists are more worried about the Covid-19 variant
The US reaches 25 million cases of Covid-19. Now it's a race between vaccines and variants. / CNN The White House restricts entry of non-US citizens from the UK, South Africa, and Brazil, where new Covid strains have emerged. / CNBC Why scientists are more worried about the Covid variant
The Justice Dept. has learned one of its lawyers devised a plan with Trump to replace the attorney general with a loyalist who would force Georgia to overturn its presidential election results. / The New York Times "Healing and unity will only come if there is truth and accountability."
The Justice Dept. has learned one of its lawyers devised a plan with Trump to replace the attorney general with a loyalist who would force Georgia to overturn its presidential election results. / The New York Times "Healing and unity will only come if there is truth and accountability."
President Biden signs 10 executive orders directed at ramping up vaccinations, including by invocation of the Defense Production Act. / The Wall Street Journal See also: Biden’s new national plan to fight Covid-19, explained. / Vox If the pace of vaccination only reaches one million doses a day, the virus won’
President Biden signs 10 executive orders directed at ramping up vaccinations, including by invocation of the Defense Production Act. / The Wall Street Journal See also: Biden’s new national plan to fight Covid-19, explained. / Vox If the pace of vaccination only reaches one million doses a day, the virus won’
From reentering the Paris climate agreement to repealing Trump's travel bans, here are details on the 17 executive orders Biden signed yesterday. / The New York Times "Getting Americans to mask up will be critical during the early months of Biden's tenure." The nine biggest
From reentering the Paris climate agreement to repealing Trump's travel bans, here are details on the 17 executive orders Biden signed yesterday. / The New York Times "Getting Americans to mask up will be critical during the early months of Biden's tenure." The nine biggest
President-elect Joe Biden will be sworn in today as the United States’ 46th president at an inauguration like no other. / Vox Kamala Harris makes history as the first female vice president in the nation's history, also the first Black vice president and first female vice president of South
President-elect Joe Biden will be sworn in today as the United States’ 46th president at an inauguration like no other. / Vox Kamala Harris makes history as the first female vice president in the nation's history, also the first Black vice president and first female vice president of South
Online caches show Trump campaign members played key roles in the rally that happened before the insurrection, and have attempted to erase posts connecting them to the event. / Associated Press "What is striking about the videos, though, is how often this entitlement is laced with insecurity." Important moments
Online caches show Trump campaign members played key roles in the rally that happened before the insurrection, and have attempted to erase posts connecting them to the event. / Associated Press "What is striking about the videos, though, is how often this entitlement is laced with insecurity." Important moments
The speeches of Martin Luther King Jr. find particular resonance “amid a year of sickness and death, Black Lives Matter protests and the storming of the Capitol.” / The New York Times Washington DC will host 25,000 members of the National Guard to help provide security at this week'
The speeches of Martin Luther King Jr. find particular resonance “amid a year of sickness and death, Black Lives Matter protests, and the storming of the Capitol.” / The New York Times Washington DC will host 25,000 members of the National Guard to help provide security at this week'
"Our current state of affairs is a paradox." Balancing the need to talk about 1/6 with the worry of inspiring other wrongdoers. / Bloomberg Darren Walker: The ideal of democracy is the greatest threat to the ideology of white supremacy. / Ford Foundation for Social Justice A vivid report
"Our current state of affairs is a paradox." Balancing the need to talk about 1/6 with the worry of inspiring other wrongdoers. / Bloomberg Darren Walker: The ideal of democracy is the greatest threat to the ideology of white supremacy. / Ford Foundation for Social Justice A vivid report
Biden introduces a $1.9 trillion pandemic rescue plan that includes more checks, unemployment benefits, and healthcare measures. / BuzzFeed News Because of security concerns, Biden's inauguration rehearsal has been postponed. / POLITICO In a court filing, federal prosecutors say Capitol insurrectionists intended "to capture and assassinate elected officials.
Biden introduces a $1.9 trillion pandemic rescue plan that includes more checks, unemployment benefits, and healthcare measures. / BuzzFeed News Because of security concerns, Biden's inauguration rehearsal has been postponed. / POLITICO In a court filing, federal prosecutors say Capitol insurrectionists intended "to capture and assassinate elected officials.
Donald Trump becomes the first American president to be impeached twice. Any trial in the Senate won’t begin before he leaves office. / Vox, CNN Macaulay Culkin joins calls to get Donald Trump’s cameo removed from Home Alone 2. / The Guardian Washington DC locks down a week before Biden’
Donald Trump becomes the first American president to be impeached twice. Any trial in the Senate likely won’t begin before he leaves office. / Vox, CNN Macaulay Culkin joins calls to get Donald Trump’s cameo removed from Home Alone 2. / The Guardian Washington DC locks down a week before
The House of Representatives is currently engaged in debate over impeaching Trump for inciting insurrection. / The Guardian In yesterday's House vote to request Pence invoke the 25th Amendment, all but one Republican voted against it. / BuzzFeed News McConnell reportedly approves of impeachment, hoping it will make it easier
The House of Representatives is currently engaged in debate over impeaching Trump for inciting insurrection. / The Guardian In yesterday's House vote to request Pence invoke the 25th Amendment, all but one Republican voted against it. / BuzzFeed News McConnell reportedly approves of impeachment, hoping it will make it easier
According to a new study, Covid-19 immunity likely lasts for years after someone is vaccinated or recovers from infection. / MIT Technology Review For one couple, a cancer diagnosis during the pandemic led them to move into a contemporary commune, to have more “OSOs” (Other Significant Others). / The New York Times
According to a new study, Covid-19 immunity likely lasts for years after someone is vaccinated or recovers from infection. / MIT Technology Review For one couple, a cancer diagnosis during the pandemic led them to move into a contemporary commune, to have more “OSOs” (Other Significant Others). / The New York Times
Pelosi tells Democrats that the House will begin impeachment proceedings "with urgency." / The Guardian The House releases its Articles of Impeachment, charging Trump with "incitement of insurrection." / CNN "The key issue is this: One of the three branches of the federal government has just incited
Pelosi tells Democrats that the House will begin impeachment proceedings "with urgency." / The Guardian The House releases its Articles of Impeachment, charging Trump with "incitement of insurrection." / CNN "The key issue is this: One of the three branches of the federal government has just incited
Twitter permanently suspends Donald Trump "due to the risk of further incitement of violence." / Twitter "Can a disgraced president addicted to outrage and innately governed by the same forces as the attention economy survive without his primary outlet?" / The New York Times Trump has been trying
Twitter permanently suspends Donald Trump "due to the risk of further incitement of violence." / Twitter "Can a disgraced president addicted to outrage and innately governed by the same forces as the attention economy survive without his primary outlet?" / The New York Times Trump has been trying
More officials resign in protest as President Trump reluctantly concedes defeat without giving up his lies about election fraud. / The New York Times Online researchers race to identify raid participants. / The Verge Some of the wanted rioters: Holocaust deniers, white supremacists, conspiracy theorists, and six Republican lawmakers. / The Independent Interviews
More officials resign in protest as President Trump reluctantly concedes defeat without giving up his lies about election fraud. / The New York Times Online researchers race to identify raid participants. / The Verge Some of the wanted rioters: Holocaust deniers, white supremacists, conspiracy theorists, and six Republican lawmakers. / The Independent Interviews
"On Jan. 6, at the president’s direction, the constitutionally scheduled process for the transfer of power was interrupted by violence." / Slate Watch: This report from ITV shows the moment Trump's mob breached the US Capitol. / YouTube Accounts of what it was like inside the Capitol
"On Jan. 6, at the president’s direction, the constitutionally scheduled process for the transfer of power was interrupted by violence." / Slate Watch: This report from ITV shows the moment Trump's mob breached the US Capitol. / YouTube Accounts of what it was like inside the Capitol
Today’s joint session of the House and Senate may be the last attempt by the president and his allies to overturn the election results. Here’s what to expect. / POLITICO, CNN Protests in DC are feared to turn ugly, egged on by the president’s Twitter feed. / The Washington
Today’s joint session of the House and Senate may be the last attempt by the president and his allies to overturn the election results. Here’s what to expect. / POLITICO, CNN Protests in DC are feared to turn ugly, egged on by the president’s Twitter feed. / The Washington
To combat the new, more infectious Covid variant, Boris Johnson announces a national lockdown for England until at least mid-February. / ABC News California, Colorado, and Florida have confirmed cases of the new, more infectious Covid variant. / CNBC Battling a Covid surge, Los Angeles County ambulance crews have been told not
To combat the new, more infectious Covid variant, Boris Johnson announces a national lockdown for England until at least mid-February. / ABC News California, Colorado, and Florida have confirmed cases of the new, more infectious Covid variant. / CNBC Battling a Covid surge, Los Angeles County ambulance crews have been told not
In leaked recordings of a one-hour phone call, President Trump urges Georgia’s secretary of state to “find” enough votes to overturn his defeat. / The Washington Post Carl Bernstein: This is “far worse” than what occurred in the Watergate scandal. / Huffpost All 10 living former defense secretaries say that involving
In leaked recordings of a one-hour phone call, President Trump urges Georgia’s secretary of state to “find” enough votes to overturn his defeat. / The Washington Post Carl Bernstein: This is far worse than what occurred in the Watergate scandal. / Huffpost All 10 living former defense secretaries say that involving
We asked some of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2020, and what were the least?
TMN will be offline through the holidays, and the newsletter will return on Monday, Jan. 4. Until then, here's our annual round-up of some of the places we like to give money. Advice on how to give to charity if you're not wealthy. The Human Restoration
TMN will be offline through the holidays, and the newsletter will return on Monday, Jan. 4. Until then, here's our annual round-up of some of the places we like to give money. Advice on how to give to charity if you're not wealthy. The Human Restoration
Pfizer and BioNTech will provide the US with an additional 100 million doses of coronavirus vaccine by mid-summer. / The Guardian The Chilean army reports 36 cases of the coronavirus at its research station on the Antarctic Peninsula. / BBC News Why are Americans so numb to the coronavirus death toll? Blame
Pfizer and BioNTech will provide the US with an additional 100 million doses of coronavirus vaccine by mid-summer. / The Guardian The Chilean army reports 36 cases of the coronavirus at its research station on the Antarctic Peninsula. / BBC News Why are Americans so numb to the coronavirus death toll? Blame
Nine months after the CARES act, Congress has passed a second stimulus bill that’s half the size of its predecessor. / The New York Times In addition to direct payments to Americans and more unemployment benefits, the stimulus extends tax breaks for film and TV production companies and includes funding
Nine months after the CARES act, Congress has passed a second stimulus bill that’s half the size of its predecessor. / The New York Times In addition to direct payments to Americans and more unemployment benefits, the stimulus extends tax breaks for film and TV production companies and includes funding
US lawmakers agree to issue stimulus payments of $600 and distribute a federal unemployment benefit of $300 for 11 weeks. / The New York Times, The Washington Post Moderna’s Covid vaccine begins rolling out. / Reuters The CDC says that adults 75 and older, as well as frontline essential workers, be
US lawmakers agree to issue stimulus payments of $600 and distribute a federal unemployment benefit of $300 for 11 weeks. / The New York Times, The Washington Post Moderna’s Covid vaccine begins rolling out. / Reuters The CDC says that adults 75 and older, as well as frontline essential workers, be
The World Health Organization says its Covid-19 vaccine program has secured 2 billion doses. / STAT Moderna’s vaccine becomes the second to receive emergency use authorization. / Reuters The coronavirus vaccines, developed and tested at record speed, are the breakthrough of the year. / Science Magazine Dhruv Khullar: The vaccine will make
The World Health Organization says its Covid-19 vaccine program has secured 2 billion doses. / STAT Moderna’s vaccine becomes the second to receive emergency use authorization. / Reuters The coronavirus vaccines, developed and tested at record speed, are the breakthrough of the year. / Science Magazine Dhruv Khullar: The vaccine will make
The shortlist, judges, and Zombie poll for the 2021 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
Research suggests July was the deadliest month in modern American history for people between the ages 25 and 44. / The New York Times ICU capacity in Southern California has dropped to 0% based on available beds and the ratio of Covid patients. / NBC Southern California “I saw a guy with
Research suggests July was the deadliest month in modern American history for people between the ages 25 and 44. / The New York Times ICU capacity in Southern California has dropped to 0% based on available beds and the ratio of Covid patients. / NBC Southern California “I saw a guy with
Congress is closing in on a roughly $900 billion coronavirus relief deal, lacking the Democrats’ aid to states and cities or the Republicans’ liability protections for companies. / The Washington PostMacKenzie Scott, ex-wife of Jeff Bezos, lists the 384 organizations she found to give away more than $4 billion this year.
Congress closes in on a $900 billion coronavirus relief deal, lacking the Democrats’ aid to states and cities or the Republicans’ liability protections for companies. / The Washington PostMacKenzie Scott, ex-wife of Jeff Bezos, lists the 384 organizations she found to give away more than $4 billion this year. / Medium Unrelated:
Citing Monday's Electoral College votes, Mitch McConnell acknowledged Joe Biden as president-elect. McConnell also urged against disputing the Electoral College tally on Jan. 6, as it would result in Republicans voting against Trump. / CNN, Associated Press Why sowing election doubt helps Republicans post-Trump: It's fuel for
Citing Monday's Electoral College votes, Mitch McConnell acknowledged Joe Biden as president-elect. McConnell also urged against disputing the Electoral College tally on Jan. 6, as it would result in Republicans voting against Trump. / CNN, Associated Press Why sowing election doubt helps Republicans post-Trump: It's fuel for
The Food and Drug Administration supports authorizing Moderna’s Covid-19 vaccine for emergency use. / NPR Helen Branswell: A guide to who can safely get the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine. / STAT Videos of vaccine deliveries are making people burst into tears. / The Washington Post Related: Each day is a small room
The Food and Drug Administration supports authorizing Moderna’s Covid-19 vaccine for emergency use. / NPR Helen Branswell: A guide to who can safely get the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine. / STAT Videos of vaccine deliveries are making people burst into tears. / The Washington Post Related: Each day is a small room
This morning, an ICU nurse at Long Island Jewish Medical Center became the first person in the US to receive the Covid-19 vaccine as part of Operation Warp Speed. / Reuters Right now, the Electoral College is meeting to cast its votes for president. / CNN Why the Electoral College doesn'
This morning, an ICU nurse at Long Island Jewish Medical Center became the first person in the US to receive the Covid-19 vaccine as part of Operation Warp Speed. / Reuters Right now, the Electoral College is meeting to cast its votes for president. / CNN Why the Electoral College doesn'
The Supreme Court rejected the Texas lawsuit intended to overturn election outcomes in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. / CNN US officials say Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine will start arriving in states on Monday morning. / Associated Press Tracking coronavirus vaccine distribution, state by state. / The Washington Post Russian health officials
The Supreme Court rejected the Texas lawsuit intended to overturn election outcomes in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. / CNN US officials say Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine will start arriving in states on Monday morning. / Associated Press Tracking coronavirus vaccine distribution, state by state. / The Washington Post Russian health officials
The FDA says it will rapidly work toward approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine now that federal advisers have endorsed it. / The Washington Post The timeline for vaccine distribution keeps slipping. Experts say it will change again. / STAT Emily Oster on how the pandemic will end: slowly, in drips, with
The FDA says it will rapidly work toward approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine now that federal advisers have endorsed it. / Science The timeline for vaccine distribution keeps slipping. Experts say it will change again. / STAT Emily Oster on how the pandemic will end: slowly, in drips, with a whimper.
On Wednesday, 3,054 people died from the coronavirus in the US—the highest daily death toll in the pandemic so far. / NPR We posted a link to an article yesterday stating that Biden wants "100 million Americans vaccinated in his first 100 days." The president-elect's
On Wednesday, 3,054 people died from the coronavirus in the US—the highest daily death toll in the pandemic so far. / NPR We posted a link to an article yesterday stating that Biden wants "100 million Americans vaccinated in his first 100 days." The president-elect's
Turns out that reimagining the music you know and love through a dub filter makes you love it even more.
More than a third of Americans live in areas where hospitals are running critically short of intensive care beds. / The New York Times Another Trump lawyer tests positive for the coronavirus, stirring fears of an additional White House superspreader event after she attended a party without a mask. / Axios More
More than a third of Americans live in areas where hospitals are running critically short of intensive care beds. / The New York Times Another Trump lawyer tests positive for the coronavirus, stirring fears of an additional White House superspreader event after she attended a party without a mask. / Axios More
The UK begins the first Pfizer Covid-19 immunization rollout. A grandmother who turns 91 next week was the first person to receive the vaccine as part of the program. / BBC An exhaustive look back at how we got to the vaccines—and the distribution challenges yet to come. / The New
The UK begins the first Pfizer Covid-19 immunization rollout. A grandmother who turns 91 next week was the first person to receive the vaccine as part of the program. / BBC An exhaustive look back at how we got to the vaccines—and the distribution challenges yet to come. / The New
Most of California goes back under lockdown, with the latest stay-at-home order to remain in place through December. / BBC News A Korean study shows how a person can (and did) infect another person 21 feet away indoors in only five minutes. / Insight Media coverage of the pandemic continues to overlook
Most of California goes back under lockdown, with the latest stay-at-home order to remain in place through December. / BBC News A Korean study shows how a person can (and did) infect another person 21 feet away indoors in only five minutes. / Insight Media coverage of the pandemic continues to overlook
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges “universal mask use” anywhere outside people’s homes. / The Washington Post To visit Iowa right now is to go back to the pandemic's early days, "when the horror was fresh and the sirens never stopped." / The Atlantic Related:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges “universal mask use” anywhere outside people’s homes. / The Washington Post To visit Iowa right now is to go back to the pandemic's early days, "when the horror was fresh and the sirens never stopped." / The Atlantic Related:
With ICUs around the state filling up, California will issue its strictest stay-at-home order since the beginning of the pandemic. / The Guardian Despite locals' entreaties, tourists continue flocking to West Texas—a virus hot spot that's running out of hospital beds. / The Texas Tribune While US air
With ICUs around the state filling up, California will issue its strictest stay-at-home order since the beginning of the pandemic. / The Guardian Despite locals' entreaties, tourists continue flocking to West Texas—a virus hot spot that's running out of hospital beds. / The Texas Tribune While US air
Helen Branswell: The Covid-19 vaccines are a marvel of science. Here’s how we can make the best use of them. / STAT A factory in New York is racing to make enough glass vials to deliver more than 100 million vaccine doses by January. / The New Yorker On Wednesday, the
Helen Branswell: The Covid-19 vaccines are a marvel of science. Here’s how we can make the best use of them. / STAT A factory in New York is racing to make enough glass vials to deliver more than 100 million vaccine doses by January. / The New Yorker On Wednesday, the
The CDC voted in favor of a Covid-19 vaccine schedule that prioritizes health care workers and elderly people living in long-term care facilities. / Science Related: A broad timeline of when various groups in the US can get vaccinated, based on risk. / CNN The new recommended Covid-19 quarantine period from the
The CDC voted in favor of a Covid-19 vaccine schedule that prioritizes health care workers and elderly people living in long-term care facilities. / Science Related: A broad timeline of when various groups in the US can get vaccinated, based on risk. / CNN The new recommended Covid-19 quarantine period from the
Moderna says that if its vaccine is approved for emergency use, Americans could get injections as soon as December 21. / The Associated Press Centers for Disease Control advisers will vote today on who should get first priority for vaccines. / CNN The number of people hospitalized with Covid-19 in the US
Moderna says that if its vaccine is approved for emergency use, Americans could get injections as soon as December 21. / The Associated Press Centers for Disease Control advisers will vote today on who should get the vaccines first. / CNN The number of people hospitalized with Covid-19 in the US reached
An in-depth look at the past 20 incredibly stupid days of Trump's attempt to overturn the election. / The Washington Post The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has thrown out US Rep. Mike Kelly's election challenge, which would have invalidated millions of mail-in votes. / NBC News "And now
An in-depth look at the past 20 incredibly stupid days of Trump's attempt to overturn the election. / The Washington Post The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has thrown out US Rep. Mike Kelly's election challenge, which would have invalidated millions of mail-in votes. / NBC News "And now
Trump's demand for a recount in Wisconsin's two largest counties has so far resulted in a net gain of 132 votes for Biden. / The Guardian What was behind Michigan’s fake voter fraud scandal? Endangered Republicans vying to prove their loyalty to Trump. / POLITICO Following a
Trump's demand for a recount in Wisconsin's two largest counties has so far resulted in a net gain of 132 votes for Biden. / The Guardian What was behind Michigan’s fake voter fraud scandal? Endangered Republicans vying to prove their loyalty to Trump. / POLITICO Following a
Thanksgiving is seen as a test that will make or break the United States’ coronavirus response. / The Associated Press The share of Americans who plan to eat Thanksgiving dinner with people outside their household is highest among Libertarians. / The New York Times “These holidays are going to be the real
We will resume publishing on Saturday. We wish our American readers a very safe, very small, happy holiday. Thanksgiving is seen as a test that will make or break the United States’ coronavirus response. / The Associated Press The share of Americans who plan to eat Thanksgiving dinner with people outside
Michigan has certified Biden's win, ending Trump's fight to delay the election results in the state. / BuzzFeed News Following Michigan's vote to certify, the General Services Administration officially recognized President-elect Biden, and has started the transition process. / Associated Press Biden's cabinet picks
Michigan has certified Biden's win, ending Trump's fight to delay the election results in the state. / BuzzFeed News Following Michigan's vote to certify, the General Services Administration officially recognized President-elect Biden, and has started the transition process. / Associated Press Biden's cabinet picks
US approval for distributing a Covid vaccine produced by Pfizer Inc and German partner BioNTech may come as soon as Dec. 11. / Reuters British company AstraZeneca says its new vaccine is up to 90% effective. / The Associated Press How Americans can make the best of a very small holiday this
US approval for distributing a Covid vaccine produced by Pfizer Inc and German partner BioNTech may come as soon as Dec. 11. / Reuters British company AstraZeneca says its new vaccine is up to 90% effective. / The Associated Press How Americans can make the best of a small holiday this week.
A poll of more than 2,000 Americans finds that 38 percent intend to gather with 10 or more people during the holiday season. / Vox California institutes a limited stay-at-home order that will last through December. / The Associated Press Rachel Maddow was off for most of the past two weeks
A poll of more than 2,000 Americans finds that 38 percent intend to gather with 10 or more people during the holiday season. / Vox California institutes a limited stay-at-home order that will last through December. / The Associated Press Rachel Maddow was off for most of the past two weeks
In preparation for the 2021 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes, here are 77 of the most Rooster-worthy books of 2020.
At current rates, the US could reach 2,000 daily coronavirus deaths within a month—the highest toll since the spring. / The Atlantic "This is a strong recommendation." The CDC is asking people not to travel for Thanksgiving. / BuzzFeed News Losing her mother to cancer during the pandemic,
At current rates, the US could reach 2,000 daily coronavirus deaths within a month—the highest toll since the spring. / The Atlantic "This is a strong recommendation." The CDC is asking people not to travel for Thanksgiving. / BuzzFeed News Losing her mother to cancer during the pandemic,
More than three million people in the US are estimated to be contagious with the coronavirus. Over 250,000 people have died. And yet little changes. / The Washington Post More than 900 Mayo Clinic staff have contracted COVID-19 in the past two weeks. New York City shuts down its schools.
More than three million people in the US are estimated to be contagious with the coronavirus. Over 250,000 people have died. And yet little changes. / The Washington Post More than 900 Mayo Clinic staff have contracted Covid-19 in the past two weeks. New York City shuts down its schools.
It's now been one year since the first known case of COVID-19 was identified. / Futurism Pfizer and BioNTech announce their COVID-19 vaccine has 95% efficacy. / STAT See also: A million-dollar donation from Dolly Parton helped fund the Moderna vaccine. / The Guardian Blood samples from those who've
It's now been one year since the first known case of COVID-19 was identified. / Futurism Pfizer and BioNTech announce their COVID-19 vaccine has 95% efficacy. / STAT See also: A million-dollar donation from Dolly Parton helped fund the Moderna vaccine. / The Guardian Blood samples from those who've
Governors issue new restrictions in Iowa, North Dakota, West Virginia, and other states as the coronavirus surges. / The New York Times Despite having no federal mandates to follow, more US airlines and airports are offering preflight coronavirus testing. / The Washington Post New Zealand's Chatham Islands are experiencing overtourism
Governors issue new restrictions in Iowa, North Dakota, West Virginia, and other states as the coronavirus surges. / The New York Times Despite having no federal mandates to follow, more US airlines and airports are offering preflight coronavirus testing. / The Washington Post New Zealand's Chatham Islands are experiencing overtourism
Last week, the US added one million new cases of the coronavirus, bringing its total to more than 11 million confirmed infections. / Reuters North Dakota alters course, issuing a statewide mask mandate, as New Mexico and Oregon enter partial lockdowns. / NBC News "Even transmission from surfaces may pose a
Last week, the US added one million new cases of the coronavirus, bringing its total to more than 11 million confirmed infections. / Reuters North Dakota alters course, issuing a statewide mask mandate, as New Mexico and Oregon enter partial lockdowns. / NBC News "Even transmission from surfaces may pose a
As Biden calls for the current administration to take urgent action against the coronavirus, Trump says the White House won't go into lockdown. / The Hill The last few weeks of Trump rallies are linked to more than 130 Secret Service agents becoming infected with COVID-19 or quarantining. / The
As Biden calls for the current administration to take urgent action against the coronavirus, Trump says the White House won't go into lockdown. / The Hill The last few weeks of Trump rallies are linked to more than 130 Secret Service agents becoming infected with COVID-19 or quarantining. / The
Eight days after the U.S. hit 100,000 cases in a day for the first time, the number topped 160,000 on Thursday. / The New York Times US Civil War combat deaths per day: 449. US combat deaths per day during World War II: 297. US deaths per day
Eight days after the US hit 100,000 cases in a day for the first time, the number topped 160,000 on Thursday. / The New York Times US Civil War combat deaths per day: 449. US combat deaths per day during World War II: 297. US deaths per day from
The coronavirus is spreading wildly across the US: "Any number of cities and states might now be considered the worst off, depending on the measurement used." / The New York Times In just one week, new daily coronavirus infections in the US have shot up from 104,000 to
The coronavirus is spreading wildly across the US: "Any number of cities and states might now be considered the worst off, depending on the measurement used." / The New York Times In just one week, new daily coronavirus infections in the US have shot up from 104,000 to
On Tuesday, the US hit another one-day record, logging more than 135,000 new coronavirus cases. There are now 40 percent more people hospitalized with COVID-19 than there were two weeks ago. / The Washington Post, The Atlantic US hospitalizations overall have nearly doubled since September. Experts fear multiple epicenters where
The US hits another one-day record, logging more than 135,000 new coronavirus cases. There are now 40 percent more people hospitalized with Covid-19 than there were two weeks ago. / The Washington Post, The Atlantic US hospitalizations overall have nearly doubled since September. Experts fear multiple epicenters where hospitals are
Coronavirus cases in the US and Europe are surging as global infections approach 50 million. / The New York Times Early results from Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine trial show the drug is strongly effective and exceeded expectations. / STAT In response to the vaccine news, the Dow and S&P
Coronavirus cases in the US and Europe are surging as global infections approach 50 million. / The New York Times Early results from Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine trial show the drug is strongly effective and exceeded expectations. / STAT In response to the vaccine news, the Dow and S&P
Joe Biden is declared President-elect of the United States, becoming the first person since 1992 to oust a sitting president. / The News & Observer Kamala Harris makes history as the first woman and woman of color as Vice President-elect. That said, this is nothing new for the rest of the
Joe Biden is declared President-elect of the United States, becoming the first person since 1992 to oust a sitting president. / The News & Observer Kamala Harris makes history as the first woman and woman of color as Vice President. That said, this is nothing new for the rest of the
Four days after the election, the US presidential race hovers in suspended animation. Three storylines to watch over the weekend. / POLITICO Meanwhile, the president’s chief of staff and several employees of the White House and Trump’s campaign team test positive for the coronavirus. / The Associated Press Joe Biden
Four days after the election, the US presidential race hovers in suspended animation. Three storylines to watch over the weekend. / POLITICO Meanwhile, the president’s chief of staff and several employees of the White House and Trump’s campaign team test positive for the coronavirus. / The Associated Press Joe Biden
The US continues to break daily coronavirus records, with more than 121,000 new cases on Thursday. / The New York Times "At this point, I didn't really give a shit." The Americans who are traveling internationally, and don't care. / The Cut Trump voters turned
The US continues to break daily coronavirus records, with more than 121,000 new cases on Thursday. / The New York Times "At this point, I didn't really give a shit." The Americans who are traveling internationally, and don't care. / The Cut Trump voters turned
Joe Biden wins the battleground prizes of Michigan and Wisconsin, leaving him one battleground state away from victory. / The Associated Press The Trump campaign launches a flurry of lawsuits. Meanwhile, Biden maintains narrow leads in Arizona and Nevada. / The Washington Post, The New York Times As long as Biden’s
Joe Biden wins Michigan and Wisconsin, leaving him one battleground state away from victory. / The Associated Press The Trump campaign launches a flurry of lawsuits. Meanwhile, Biden maintains narrow leads in Arizona and Nevada. / The Washington Post, The New York Times As long as Biden retains his edge in Arizona,
The US presidential election is still too close to call. However, early this morning Trump made good on his plan to declare victory anyway, claim fraud, and call for votes to stop being counted. / AP, The Washington Post Democrats will maintain control of the House, but it's looking
The US presidential election is still too close to call. However, early this morning Trump made good on his plan to declare victory anyway, claim fraud, and call for votes to stop being counted. / AP, The Washington Post Democrats will maintain control of the House, but it's looking
A politics wonk in DC explains how to properly "enjoy" today’s elections, broken down by segments of the day. / Five Points by Matt Glassman Voting in person is roughly as safe as going to the grocery store. / Vox Reuters is equipping its reporters with protective gear. Retailers
A politics wonk in DC explains how to properly “enjoy” today’s elections, broken down by segments of the day. / Five Points by Matt Glassman Voting in person is roughly as safe as going to the grocery store. / Vox Reuters is equipping its reporters with protective gear. Retailers prepare for
Trump's alleged plan to win reelection: Prematurely claim victory on election night so remaining vote counting appears fraudulent. / Axios "Competent criminals rarely announce their crimes in advance." The Trump's campaign's "illegitimate and stupid plan" to win the election. / The Message
Trump's alleged plan to win reelection: Prematurely claim victory on election night so remaining vote counting appears fraudulent. / Axios "Competent criminals rarely announce their crimes in advance." The Trump's campaign's "illegitimate and stupid plan" to win the election. / The Message
On Friday the US had more than 99,000 new coronavirus infections—the highest single-day figure for any country since the start of the pandemic. / The Washington Post Taiwan reaches a record 200 days without any domestically transmitted cases of COVID-19. / The Guardian Your weekly white paper: COVID-19 trends in
On Friday the US had more than 99,000 new coronavirus infections—the highest single-day figure for any country since the start of the pandemic. / The Washington Post Taiwan reaches a record 200 days without any domestically transmitted cases of COVID-19. / The Guardian Your weekly white paper: COVID-19 trends in
The United States, which reported its first known coronavirus case in Washington State 282 days ago, surpasses nine million total infections. / The New York Times Helen Branswell: It may be time to reset expectations on when we’ll get a Covid-19 vaccine. Fauci says he doesn’t expect “semblances of
The United States, which reported its first known coronavirus case in Washington 282 days ago, surpasses nine million total infections. / The New York Times Helen Branswell: It may be time to reset expectations on when we’ll get a Covid-19 vaccine. Fauci says he doesn’t expect “semblances of normality”
In the US, more than 71,000 people a day are testing positive on average, up from 51,000 two weeks ago. / The Associated Press Related: “A room, a bar, and a classroom: how the coronavirus is spread through the air.” / El País Cases of the coronavirus grew at a
In the US, more than 71,000 people a day are testing positive on average, up from 51,000 two weeks ago. / The Associated Press Related: “A room, a bar, and a classroom: how the coronavirus is spread through the air.” / El País Cases of the coronavirus grew at a
As of Monday, more than 42,000 people were hospitalized in the United States with Covid-19. / The Washington Post A Scottish bishop asks for a Christmas truce—a one-day break from Covid restrictions—as if the virus was a German army. / BBC News France is Europe’s epicenter of the
As of Monday, more than 42,000 people are hospitalized in the United States with Covid-19. / The Washington Post A Scottish bishop asks for a Christmas truce—a one-day break from Covid restrictions—as if the virus was a German army. / BBC News France is Europe’s epicenter of the
The third wave of the novel coronavirus in the United States is officially worse than the last two. / TIME "If we took aggressive steps right now, we could potentially forestall the worst of it, but we're not going to do that." The US is close to
The third wave of the novel coronavirus in the United States is officially worse than the last two. / TIME "If we took aggressive steps right now, we could potentially forestall the worst of it, but we're not going to do that." The US is close to
The US average of new daily cases is now at its highest point of the entire pandemic. / CNN After five aides to Vice President Pence test positive for Covid-19, the White House admits it can’t control what’s happening. / CNBC In Italy, gyms, swimming pools, cinemas, and theatres are
The US average of new daily cases is now at its highest point of the entire pandemic. / CNN After five aides to Vice President Pence test positive for Covid-19, the White House admits it can’t control what’s happening. / CNBC In Italy, gyms, swimming pools, cinemas, and theatres are
The US sets a daily record of over 85,000 new cases on Friday while the resurgent virus attacks the heartland. / The New York Times As cases spike across Europe, Italy imposes lockdowns on its three largest cities: Rome, Milan, and Naples. / The Associated Press Curfews across England and France,
The US sets a daily record of over 85,000 new cases on Friday while the resurgent virus attacks the heartland. / The New York Times As cases spike across Europe, Italy imposes lockdowns on its three largest cities: Rome, Milan, and Naples. / The Associated Press Curfews across England and France,
In their final debate, Donald Trump and Joe Biden fight over how to tame the coronavirus. Pundits credit the quality of the debate to “muted mic deterrence.” “It’s not the actual power of the mute but the threat of the mute.” / The Associated Press, The New York Times, Twitter
In their final debate, Joe Biden and Donald Trump clash over how to tame the coronavirus. Pundits credit the quality of the debate to “muted mic deterrence.” / The Associated Press, The New York Times, Twitter Nate Silver projects total turnout in the presidential race to be 154 million, with an
Some good news to start: A pair of peer-reviewed studies show a sharp drop in mortality among hospitalized Covid-19 patients. / NPR The only two residents of a remote Italian village both wear masks when they meet for coffee. "It's a matter of principle." / CNN In case
Some good news to start: A pair of peer-reviewed studies show a sharp drop in mortality among hospitalized Covid-19 patients. / NPR The only two residents of a remote Italian village both wear masks when they meet for coffee. "It's a matter of principle." / CNN The Department
The United States is averaging 59,000 new cases a day of the novel coronavirus—on pace to record the most new daily cases of the entire pandemic in the coming days. / The New York Times Argentina becomes the fifth country to surpass 1 million Covid-19 cases, after the US,
The United States is averaging 59,000 new cases a day of the novel coronavirus—on pace to record the most new daily cases of the entire pandemic in the coming days. / The New York Times Argentina becomes the fifth country to surpass 1 million Covid-19 cases, after the US,
As Covid infections soar, Trump attacks Fauci, dismissing his scientific advisers as “these idiots.” / The New York Times A report from inside the White House task force as the coronavirus surges. / The Washington Post The president attacking a top doctor amid a global pandemic “would normally make for shocking news.
As Covid infections soar, President Trump attacks Dr. Fauci, dismissing his scientific advisers as “these idiots.” / The New York Times A report from inside the White House task force as the coronavirus surges. / The Washington Post The president attacking a top doctor amid a global pandemic “would normally make for
The United States surpassed eight million known Covid cases last week, and reported more than 70,000 new infections on Friday, the most in a single day since July. / The New York Times Some senior living facilities are quietly using automated tracking systems to guide contact tracing. / The Verge “How
The United States surpassed eight million known Covid cases last week, and reported more than 70,000 new infections on Friday, the most in a single day since July. / The New York Times Some senior living facilities are quietly using automated tracking systems to guide contact tracing. / The Verge “How
Health experts offer advice on how to plan for a safe Thanksgiving during the Covid period. / STAT In Switzerland, yodelers created a superspreader event in late September. / The Daily Beast Five reasons why Covid-19 has been less deadly in Africa than elsewhere. / BBC News James Carville: Americans are coming together
Health experts offer advice on how to plan for a safe Thanksgiving during the Covid period. / STAT In Switzerland, yodelers and the fans who love them created a superspreader event in late September. / The Daily Beast Five reasons why Covid-19 has been less deadly in Africa than elsewhere. / BBC News
What happened when the United States’ emergency aid money ran out: eight million people entered poverty. / The New York Times Public health officers across the country rush to plan for the distribution of a coronavirus vaccine. / NPR How the CDC was felled by a virus, the president, and “the capitulation
What happened when the United States’ emergency aid money ran out: eight million people entered poverty. / The New York Times Public health officers across the country rush to plan for the distribution of a coronavirus vaccine. / NPR How the CDC was felled by a virus, the president, and “the capitulation
A proposal to speed up herd immunity to the coronavirus gets White House attention “but appalls top scientists.” / The Washington Post See also: “Which states had the best pandemic response?” / POLITICO Paris and other French cities enter a curfew to curb the virus’s rapid spread. / BBC News Helen Branswell:
A proposal to speed up herd immunity to the coronavirus gets White House attention “but appalls top scientists.” / The Washington Post Related: Which states have had the best pandemic response. / POLITICO Paris and other French cities enter a curfew to curb the virus’s rapid spread. / BBC News Helen Branswell:
The Czech Republic has Europe’s highest rate of coronavirus infection, despite July’s massive “Farewell Covid” party. / NBC News In the UK, the resurgence is blamed on lax social distancing and the prime minister’s public health directives. / Vox Cristiano Ronaldo becomes yet another major soccer player to test
How can we keep this autumn Covid surge from becoming a winter catastrophe? "Empiricism and imperfection." / CNN, The Atlantic In the UK, the resurgence is blamed on lax social distancing and the prime minister’s public health directives. / Vox The Czech Republic has Europe’s highest rate of
An otherwise healthy 25-year-old man from Nevada was reinfected with Covid-19, and the second bout was worse than the first. / BBC News Johnson & Johnson pauses its Covid vaccine study due to unexplained illness in a participant. / STAT Sean Penn has created the United States’ largest coronavirus testing program. Somebody
An otherwise healthy 25-year-old man from Nevada was reinfected with Covid-19, and the second bout was worse than the first. / BBC News Johnson & Johnson pauses its Covid vaccine study due to an unexplained illness in a participant. / STAT Sean Penn has created the United States’ largest coronavirus testing program.
A new wave of COVID-19 cases is building across the United States, a harbinger of difficult winter months ahead. / Vox President Trump will hold a rally today in Florida, though he won’t say whether he has tested negative yet for the coronavirus. / The Washington Post “Taking Page From Authoritarians,
A new wave of COVID-19 cases is building across the United States, a harbinger of difficult winter months ahead. / Vox President Trump will hold a rally today in Florida, though he won’t say whether he has tested negative yet for the coronavirus. / The Washington Post “Taking Page From Authoritarians,
Spain imposes a state of emergency on Madrid to bring down COVID-19 infection rates. Cases are inching up in New England. / BBC News, The New York Times Wearing masks doesn’t harm your health, but the idea has lived on through multiple debunkings. / The Atlantic See also: See if you
Spain imposes a state of emergency on Madrid to bring down COVID-19 infection rates. Cases are inching up in New England. The WHO sets a new daily record. / BBC News, The New York Times, The Associated Press Wearing masks doesn’t harm your health, but the idea has lived on
The Nobel Peace Prize goes to the UN’s World Food Program for its efforts to combat a surge in global hunger amid the coronavirus pandemic. / The New York Times Most of the infections faced by our ancestors are still with us. A review of how other pandemics came to
The Nobel Peace Prize goes to the UN’s World Food Program for its efforts to combat a surge in global hunger amid the coronavirus pandemic. / The New York Times An overview of how other pandemics came to an end. / BBC News Some 171 countries are teaming up for a
The New England Journal of Medicine condemns the White House’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic and calls for Trump to be voted out of office. / The New England Journal of Medicine Dexamethasone, the steroid being administered to the president as part of his kitchen-sink treatment for COVID-19, makes musicians
The New England Journal of Medicine condemns the White House’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic and calls for Trump to be voted out of office. / The New England Journal of Medicine Dexamethasone, the steroid being administered to the president as part of his kitchen-sink treatment for COVID-19, makes musicians
Washington, DC, records its highest number of daily coronavirus cases in more than four months. / WAMU Several members of the Pentagon's senior leadership are quarantining after a top Coast Guard official tests positive. / CNN First President Trump says he won’t negotiate a new fiscal stimulus package, then
Washington, DC, records its highest number of daily coronavirus cases in more than four months. / WAMU Several members of the Pentagon's senior leadership are quarantining after a top Coast Guard official tests positive. / CNN President Trump says he won’t negotiate a new fiscal stimulus package, then reverses.
The US has reported more than 97,000 new Covid cases since the news of President Trump’s positive test. / Vox The Midwest keeps reopening as states reel from new virus cases. Meanwhile, the White House is doing almost nothing to investigate its outbreak. / POLITICO, The New York Times The
The US has reported more than 97,000 new cases of COVID-19 since the news of President Trump’s positive test. / Vox Meanwhile, the White House is doing almost nothing to investigate its outbreak. / The New York Times The White House blocks new FDA guidelines on bringing potential vaccines to
Yesterday, Trump took a brief motorcade with two Secret Service members to wave to supporters outside Walter Reed hospital. / BuzzFeed News A Walter Reed attending physician: "Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary presidential ‘drive-by’ just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might
Yesterday, Trump took a brief motorcade with two Secret Service members to wave to supporters outside Walter Reed hospital. / BuzzFeed News A Walter Reed attending physician: "Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary presidential ‘drive-by’ just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might
Please note: We chose to delay yesterday's Headlines until today, now that it appears the news regarding Trump's condition has slowed a bit. Trump’s medical team says the president has had two concerning drops in oxygen levels, but may be discharged from Walter Reed as
Please note: We chose to delay yesterday's newsletter until today, now that it appears the news regarding Trump's condition has slowed a bit. Trump’s medical team says the president has had two concerning drops in oxygen levels, but may be discharged from Walter Reed as
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have contracted the novel coronavirus. / Vox The news arrives just hours after reports surfaced that Hope Hicks, one of Trump’s closest aides, tested positive for the virus as well. / CNBC A list of other world leaders who have contracted the virus.
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have contracted the novel coronavirus. / Vox The news arrives just hours after reports surfaced that Hope Hicks, one of Trump’s closest aides, tested positive for the virus as well. / CNBC A list of other world leaders who have contracted the virus.
Democrats had a fundraising spike following Biden's debate with Trump, receiving close to $8 million between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. / CNBC On Wednesday, Fox & Friends hosts and guests offered pointers to Trump for the next debate—probably since there was a good chance the
Democrats had a fundraising spike following Biden's debate with Trump, receiving close to $8 million between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. / CNBC On Wednesday, Fox & Friends hosts and guests offered pointers to Trump for the next debate—probably since there was a good chance the
Biden and Trump’s first debate was a fiasco, where Trump was “nothing short of a horror show,” standing by white supremacists and actively sowing doubt about election integrity. / USA Today, The Washington Post, The New York Times See also: Trump highlighted his hunger for a rushed, election-eve vaccine approval.
Biden and Trump’s first debate is a fiasco, where Trump, “nothing short of a horror show,” stood by white supremacists and sowed doubt about election integrity. / USA Today, The Washington Post, The New York Times Not to forget: Trump emphasized his hunger for a rushed, election-eve vaccine approval. / STAT
More than one million people worldwide have now died from COVID-19, and many regions are still reporting surges of new infections. / BBC Of the one million deaths, one in five victims was an American. / The Washington Post See also: Based on an average over the past month, more than 5,
More than one million people worldwide have now died from COVID-19, and many regions are still reporting surges of new infections. / BBC Of the one million deaths, one in five victims was an American. / The Washington Post See also: Based on an average over the past month, more than 5,
Twenty-one states report increased COVID-19 cases as experts warn of a fall surge. / CNN An interactive model lets your neighborhood become the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic in the United States. / The Washington Post An org chart of Operation Warp Speed shows a highly structured organization in which military personnel
Every president since the mid-1970s has made his tax information public. Trump’s returns, recently leaked, show chronic losses and years of tax avoidance. / The New York Times Related: “I Paid More in Taxes than Donald Trump” stickers. / Twitter A brief profile of the registered Democrat who runs the “decision
The White House is expected to nominate Amy Coney Barrett to fill fill the Supreme Court vacancy left by the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. / The Washington Post Operation Warp Speed is the White House's best attempt at fighting coronavirus. Trump can't seem to help
The White House is expected to nominate Amy Coney Barrett to fill fill the Supreme Court vacancy left by the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. / The Washington Post Operation Warp Speed is the White House's best attempt at fighting coronavirus. Trump can't seem to help
Senate Republicans, including McConnell, dismiss Trump's refusal to commit to a peaceful transfer of power if he loses. The Senate also passed a resolution reaffirming its support for such a transition. / NBC News, The Hill Letters from presidents to their successors show what a peaceful transfer of power
Senate Republicans, including McConnell, dismiss Trump's refusal to commit to a peaceful transfer of power if he loses. The Senate also passed a resolution reaffirming its support for such a transition. / NBC News, The Hill Letters from presidents to their successors show what a peaceful transfer of power
A large genetic study shows the coronavirus mutating and potentially evolving amid its rapid spread in the United States. / The Washington Post Johnson & Johnson says it has made advancements with its potential Covid-19 vaccine and hopes to know its efficacy by the end of the year. / The New York
We were unable to publish the newsletter yesterday due to, you know, life. Today’s edition includes extra links. Thanks for understanding. A large genetic study shows the coronavirus mutating and potentially evolving amid its rapid spread in the United States. / The Washington Post Johnson & Johnson says it hopes
France and Spain, currently Europe’s hardest-hit countries, are tracking a rise of coronavirus cases even worse than their springtime peaks. / Vox Over the weekend, multiple states including Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Utah experienced a record number of new daily cases. / Esquire Charting the pandemic over the next 12 months.
France and Spain, currently Europe’s hardest-hit countries, are tracking a rise in coronavirus cases even worse than their springtime peaks. / Vox Over the weekend, multiple states including Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Utah experienced a record number of new daily cases. / Esquire Charting the pandemic over the next 12 months.
The CDC has now reverted its guidance on COVID-19, removing language added on Friday stating the virus can spread through the air. / CNN What we've learned over the past six months of the pandemic: You don't need to disinfect your groceries, but you do need to
The CDC has now reverted its guidance on COVID-19, removing language added on Friday stating the virus can spread through the air. / CNN What we've learned over the past six months of the pandemic: You don't need to disinfect your groceries, but you do need to
Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has died at 87. / The Washington Post Ginsburg in 2004: "My heritage as a Jew and my occupation as a judge fit together symmetrically. The demand for justice runs through the entirety of Jewish history and Jewish tradition." / The Washington Post Ginsburg
Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has died at 87. / The Washington Post Ginsburg in 2004: "My heritage as a Jew and my occupation as a judge fit together symmetrically. The demand for justice runs through the entirety of Jewish history and Jewish tradition." / The Washington Post Ginsburg
A new allegation accuses the President of the United States of sexual assault, increasing the tally to at least two dozen. / The Guardian Related: Trump's former lawyer says Trump hit on his 15-year-old daughter in front of him. The daughter, Samantha Cohen, told her version to CNN earlier
A new allegation accuses the President of the United States of sexual assault, increasing the tally to at least two dozen. / The Guardian Trump's former lawyer says Trump hit on his 15-year-old daughter in front of him. The daughter told her version to CNN earlier this week. / The
The US National Hurricane Center says the flooding caused by Hurricane Sally on the Alabama-Florida coastline is "historic and catastrophic." / The Guardian Following the CDC director's Senate testimony in which he said a coronavirus vaccine wouldn't be widely available until at least mid-2021, Trump
The US National Hurricane Center says the flooding caused by Hurricane Sally on the Alabama-Florida coastline is "historic and catastrophic." / The Guardian Following the CDC director's Senate testimony in which he said a coronavirus vaccine wouldn't be widely available until at least mid-2021, Trump
The last 10 years have broken fire records in California, and 2020 tops them all. / The Los Angeles Times Photos from the last month of wildfires in Brazil, Greece, and Argentina, during what may go down as the hottest year yet recorded. / Heated Can you slap an HVAC filter on
The last 10 years have broken fire records in California, and 2020 tops them all. / The Los Angeles Times Photos from a month of wildfires in Brazil, Greece, and Argentina, during what may go down as the hottest year yet recorded. / Heated Can you slap an HVAC filter on a
Phosphine, a gas produced by bacteria, has been detected in the atmosphere of Venus. On Earth, phosphine hints at the presence of life. / CNN The air quality in Portland, Ore., currently ranks as the worst among the world's cities. / NPR Smoke from the fires on the West Coast
Phosphine, a gas produced by bacteria, has been detected in the atmosphere of Venus. On Earth, phosphine hints at the presence of life. / CNN The air quality in Portland, Ore., currently ranks as the worst among the world's cities. / NPR Smoke from the fires on the West Coast
Firefighters across the American West brace for strong winds may fan uncontrolled blazes. / The New York Times A big chunk of ice has broken away from the Arctic's largest remaining ice shelf. / BBC News See also: “How Big Oil Misled The Public Into Believing Plastic Would Be Recycled.
Firefighters across the American West brace for strong winds that may fan uncontrolled blazes. / The New York Times A large chunk breaks away from the Arctic's biggest remaining ice shelf. / BBC News A food critic gathers three weeks of packaging from ordering takeout to understand his role in
Links between wildfires and the climate crisis are straightforward, and effects to come likely will be larger than any we've seen. / The New York Times With nearly five million acres burned, Oregon prepares for a “mass fatality incident.” Photographs of Oregon’s deadly fires. / The East Oregonian, NPR
Links between wildfires and the climate crisis are straightforward, and effects to come likely will be larger than any we've seen. / The New York Times Oregon prepares for a “mass fatality incident.” Photographs of Oregon’s deadly fires. / The East Oregonian, NPR To keep the United States on
A federal court has blocked Trump's attempt to exclude undocumented immigrants from being counted in the census for apportionment, calling the move "unlawful." / The Washington Post Senate Republicans were unable to advance their coronavirus stimulus plan, marking the fifth failed congressional aid package. / CNBC Microsoft has
A federal court has blocked Trump's attempt to exclude undocumented immigrants from being counted in the census for apportionment, calling the move "unlawful." / The Washington Post Senate Republicans were unable to advance their coronavirus stimulus plan, marking the fifth failed congressional aid package. / CNBC Microsoft has
In February, Trump told Bob Woodward he knew exactly how deadly the virus was, and in March, admitted he kept that knowledge from the public. / Vox Related: A list of unfiltered moments from Woodward’s new book. / CNN For Joe Biden, the revelation is a "life-and-death betrayal.” Carl Bernstein,
In February, Trump told Bob Woodward he knew exactly how deadly the virus was, and in March, admitted he kept that knowledge from the public. / Vox Related: Unfiltered moments from Woodward’s new book. / CNN For Joe Biden, the revelation is "life-and-death betrayal.” Carl Bernstein, Woodward’s former reporting
The Justice Dept. has moved to take over the defense of E. Jean Carroll's defamation lawsuit from Trump’s lawyers, arguing the president’s remarks were made while performing his official duties. / NPR Georgia Republicans disenfranchised hundreds of thousands of voters, claiming residents changed addresses—two thirds had
The Justice Dept. has moved to take over the defense of E. Jean Carroll's defamation lawsuit from Trump’s lawyers, arguing the president’s remarks were made while performing his official duties. / NPR Georgia Republicans disenfranchised hundreds of thousands of voters, claiming residents changed addresses—two thirds had
California sets a grim record with more than two million acres burned, with several weeks remaining in the middle of fire season. / USA Today One backpacking party’s frightening story of escaping the Creek Fire. / Twitter In Los Angeles, a pyrotechnic device that was part of a gender-reveal party started
California sets a grim record of more than two million acres burned, with several weeks remaining in the middle of fire season. / USA Today One backpacking party’s frightening story of escaping the Creek Fire. / Twitter In Los Angeles, a pyrotechnic device that was part of a gender-reveal party started
Russian “malign influence actors” have targeted the absentee voting process by spreading disinformation since at least March. / ABC News The former assistant secretary for counterterrorism and threat prevention at Homeland Security says President Trump’s encouragement of white-supremacist terrorism is a significant threat. / The New York Times A new book
Russian “malign influence actors” have targeted the absentee voting process by spreading disinformation since at least March. / ABC News The former Assistant Secretary for counterterrorism and threat prevention at Homeland Security says President Trump’s encouragement of white-supremacist terrorism is a significant threat. / The New York Times A new book
Major European drug companies GSK and Sanofi say they're starting clinical trials of their coronavirus vaccine. / BBC News How a fast vaccine approval might play out, if all goes well—and some warning signs that a science-based process is being skipped. / STAT Since the start of the pandemic&
Coming this October to a lockdown near you, all the winners from the Tournament of Books compete for a prize 16 years in the making: the Super Rooster, presented by Bookshop.
Spain enters a second wave of the coronavirus—spreading at eight times the rate in Italy, 10 times the pace in Germany. / The New York Times The Trump administration says it won’t join a global vaccine effort in part because the World Health Organization is involved. / The Washington Post
Spain enters a second wave of the coronavirus—spreading at eight times the rate in Italy, 10 times the pace in Germany. / The New York Times The White House says it won’t join a global vaccine effort in part because the WHO is involved. / The Washington Post Scientists maintain
Around 145,000 fewer Americans would have died if the US had done an average job of fighting COVID-19. / The New York Times See also: Sorting the COVID-19 death data to try and ascertain how many people have died as a result of the outbreak. / Nature According to post-mortem analysis,
Around 145,000 fewer Americans would have died if the US had done an average job of fighting COVID-19. / The New York Times See also: Sorting the COVID-19 death data to try and ascertain how many people have died as a result of the outbreak. / Nature According to post-mortem analysis,
The Justice Department secretly took steps in 2017 to keep investigators from completing an examination of President Trump’s personal and business ties to Russia. / The New York Times A man was killed in Portland on Saturday after clashes between a caravan of Trump supporters and counterprotesters. / The Associated Press
The Justice Department secretly took steps in 2017 to keep investigators from completing an examination of President Trump’s personal and business ties to Russia. / The New York Times A man was killed in Portland on Saturday after clashes between a caravan of Trump supporters and counterprotesters. / The Associated Press
Interviews with unemployed Americans going without federal funds find rage toward Trump and the Republicans for the lapse. / The Washington Post Reporter Kevin Roose put together a Twitter feed that tracks each day’s 10 top-performing posts by Facebook pages in the United States. All of them are alt-right or
Interviews with unemployed Americans going without federal funds find rage toward Trump and the Republicans for the lapse. / The Washington Post Reporter Kevin Roose put together a Twitter feed that tracks each day’s 10 top-performing posts by Facebook pages in the United States. All of them are alt-right or
Making landfall early yesterday morning, Hurricane Laura pummeled parts of Louisiana, leaving six people dead. / CNN Japan's Shinzo Abe, the country's longest serving prime minister, is resigning due to poor health. / Reuters Trump's speech last night at the Republican National Convention echoed the speech
Making landfall early yesterday morning, Hurricane Laura pummeled parts of Louisiana, leaving six people dead. / CNN Japan's Shinzo Abe, the country's longest serving prime minister, is resigning due to poor health. / Reuters Trump's speech last night at the Republican National Convention echoed the speech
Half a million residents have been told to leave parts of Texas and Louisiana as Hurricane Laura makes landfall overnight. / BBC News Britain to pay low-income residents to self-isolate if they test positive for the coronavirus: £130 for 10 days of isolation. / World Economic Forum New Covid-19 testing guidelines, crafted
Half a million residents have been told to leave parts of Texas and Louisiana as Hurricane Laura made landfall overnight. / BBC News New Covid-19 testing guidelines, crafted at the White House, alarm public health experts. / STAT Usain Bolt tests positive just days after a party where he danced with dozens
The first documented COVID-19 reinfection has been reported. The patient had a new immune response, but was asymptomatic. / The New York Times Nigeria becomes the last African country to be declared free from wild polio. / BBC News Medical experts say the FDA "grossly misrepresented" its stat that blood
We've reached our final discussion of the summer—and it's time for you to vote on our August matchup.
The first documented COVID-19 reinfection has been reported. The patient had a new immune response, but was asymptomatic. / Science Nigeria becomes the last African country to be declared free from wild polio. / BBC News Medical experts say the FDA "grossly misrepresented" its stat that blood plasma reduces COVID-19
Even in the context of recent years, the size and scope of Northern California’s fires are historically unprecedented. / Weather West See also: A useful fire and smoke map for people living in the Western United States. / AirNow To study disease-carrying mosquitoes, scientists let them feed on their own blood.
Even in the context of recent years, the size and scope of Northern California’s fires are historically unprecedented. / Weather West See also: Useful fire and smoke maps for people living in the Western US: one and two. / AirNow, The Los Angeles Times To study disease-carrying mosquitoes, scientists let them
The Republican National Convention begins today, and Trump will make an appearance every single night. / NPR, CNN The Republican National Committee won't present a party platform at the convention, and will instead "enthusiastically support the president’s America-first agenda." / MarketWatch See also: What happens when a
The Republican National Convention begins today, and Trump will make an appearance every single night. / NPR, CNN The Republican National Committee won't present a party platform at the convention, and will instead "enthusiastically support the president’s America-first agenda." / MarketWatch See also: What happens when a
In the past week, the wildfires in California have now engulfed 918,000 acres, prompting requests for out-of-state firefighting assistance. / Los Angeles Times It's now been more than five months since Breonna Taylor was murdered, and calls for the officers' arrests are intensifying. / The Washington Post As
In the past week, the wildfires in California have now engulfed 918,000 acres, prompting requests for out-of-state firefighting assistance. / Los Angeles Times It's now been more than five months since Breonna Taylor was murdered, and calls for the officers' arrests are intensifying. / The Washington Post As
Joe Biden’s big speech at an all-virtual DNC is “rousting, emotional, surprisingly effective,” proving he’s still an American romantic. / The New Yorker Close watches of Elizabeth Warren’s speech noticed several Easter Eggs in the background. / The Morning News The Postal Service, run by a staunch Trump supporter,
Joe Biden’s big speech at an all-virtual DNC is “rousting, emotional, surprisingly effective,” proving he’s still an American romantic. / The New Yorker Close watchers of Elizabeth Warren’s speech noticed several Easter Eggs in the background. / The Morning News The Postal Service, run by a staunch Trump supporter,
Russian opposition leader and staunch Putin critic Alexei Navalny is in serious condition after being poisoned this morning. / BuzzFeed News Steve Bannon has been arrested and charged with defrauding donors out of hundreds of thousands of dollars as part of the "We Build the Wall" crowdfunding campaign. / Axios
Russian opposition leader and staunch Putin critic Alexei Navalny is in serious condition after being poisoned this morning. / BuzzFeed News Steve Bannon has been arrested and charged with defrauding donors out of hundreds of thousands of dollars as part of the "We Build the Wall" crowdfunding campaign. / Axios
The second night of the Democrats’ convention offers moments of confusion, but also some unexpected joy. / Vox “The program’s very existence was a kind of political argument: If this doesn’t look normal, it’s because none of this is normal right now.” / The New York Times Why are
This week at Camp ToB we begin discussing our final book of the summer—wait, really, already?—Weather by Jenny Offill.
Night two of the Democrats’ convention offers moments of confusion, but also some unexpected joy. / Vox “The program’s very existence was a kind of political argument: If this doesn’t look normal, it’s because none of this is normal right now.” / The New York Times Why are networks
More than a dozen US states may sue the Trump administration over postal service cuts. / Reuters Postmaster General Louis DeJoy will testify before a senate panel on Friday over concerns about mail delays ahead of the election. / The Hill A history of how the US Postal Service has been repeatedly
More than a dozen US states may sue the Trump administration over postal service cuts. / Reuters Postmaster General Louis DeJoy will testify before a senate panel on Friday over concerns about mail delays ahead of the election. / The Hill A history of how the US Postal Service has been repeatedly
The Democratic Convention begins today as a television production combining live feeds, taped segments, and a telethon. / The New York Times “At a regular convention, audience reaction is a huge part of the speeches. We needed a way to do that technologically and virtually.” / The Washington Post See also: The
The Democratic Convention begins as a television production combining live feeds, taped segments, and a telethon. / The New York Times “At a regular convention, audience reaction is a huge part of the speeches. We needed a way to do that technologically and virtually.” / The Washington Post See also: The all-virtual
The Postal Service warns states it may not be able to meet deadlines for delivering last-minute mail-in ballots. / The New York Times Thanks to the social media panic, though, it pledges to quit removing mailboxes (for now). / The Washington Post Considering the Republican Party’s attacks on the voting by
The Postal Service warns states it may not be able to meet deadlines for delivering last-minute mail-in ballots. / The New York Times Thanks to the social media panic, though, it pledges to quit removing mailboxes (for now). / The Washington Post Considering the Republican Party’s attacks on voting by mail,
The US Senate has now adjourned for a month—a sign that there won't be a coronavirus relief package passed this summer. / BuzzFeed News In a deal brokered by the White House, Israel and the United Arab Emirates agree to establish full diplomatic relations. / Associated Press The number
The US Senate has now adjourned for a month—a sign that there won't be a coronavirus relief package passed this summer. / BuzzFeed News In a deal brokered by the White House, Israel and the United Arab Emirates agree to establish full diplomatic relations. / Associated Press The number
A new study isolates live virus from aerosols at a distance of seven to 16 feet from patients hospitalized with COVID-19. / The New York Times Charts and maps help to explain the spread of COVID-19 in the United States. In the country’s largest county, 1 in 8 have likely
A new study isolates live virus from aerosols at a distance of seven to 16 feet from patients hospitalized with COVID-19. / The New York Times Charts and maps help to explain the spread of COVID-19 in the United States. In the country’s largest county, 1 in 8 have likely
This week, we're discussing the second half of Lily King's Writers & Lovers. (Beware: Every possible spoiler is ahead!)
Joe Biden picks Senator Kamala Harris for vice president, making Harris the first woman of color to be nominated for vice president by a major political party. / The Washington Post, NPR “When Kamala was Attorney General, she worked closely with Beau. I watched as they took on the big banks,
Joe Biden picks Senator Kamala Harris for vice president, making Harris the first woman of color to be nominated for vice president by a major political party. / The Washington Post, NPR “When Kamala was Attorney General, she worked closely with Beau. I watched as they took on the big banks,
The world reaches 20 million confirmed coronavirus cases and is edging closer to 750,000 deaths globally. / CNN The United States’ fumbling response to the pandemic is making it one of the chief risks to a global rebound. / The Associated Press According to different indices, the American passport is fast
The world reaches 20 million confirmed coronavirus cases and is edging closer to 750,000 deaths globally. / CNN The United States’ fumbling response to the pandemic is making it one of the chief risks to a global rebound. / The Associated Press According to different indices, the American passport is fast
Executive actions Trump signed on Saturday may not hold water, crossing the line into congressional tax and spending powers. / The Washington Post TikTok is planning to sue the Trump administration over the president's executive order banning the service from the US. / NPR Police in Hong Kong have arrested
Executive actions Trump signed on Saturday may not hold water, crossing the line into congressional tax and spending powers. / The Washington Post TikTok is planning to sue the Trump administration over the president's executive order banning the service from the US. / NPR Police in Hong Kong have arrested
Congressional Democrats call for an investigation of the postmaster general over cost-cutting measures that have delayed delivery of mail-in ballots. / The Washington Post The postmaster general refutes accusations that he's beholden to Trump. / The News & Record See also: What Democrats must do to save the USPS in
Congressional Democrats call for an investigation of the postmaster general over cost-cutting measures that have delayed delivery of mail-in ballots. / The Washington Post The postmaster general refutes accusations that he's beholden to Trump. / The News & Record See also: What Democrats must do to save the USPS in
The White House and Democrats seem resigned to the likelihood that Congress won't reach a stimulus deal amid the economic crisis. / The Washington Post Congress can’t even agree on the kind of thermometer to use test lawmakers for coronavirus symptoms. / The Washington Post Incidentally, “the White House”
The White House and Democrats seem resigned to the likelihood that Congress can't reach a stimulus deal amid the economic crisis. / The Washington Post Note: Congress can’t even agree on the kind of thermometer to use to test lawmakers for coronavirus symptoms. / The Washington Post Incidentally, the
Following the massive blast in Beirut that killed 135 people and injured thousands, people are accusing the government of negligence over the storage of ammonium nitrate. / Associated Press Related: Mapping the damage from the Beirut explosion. / The New York Times Defense Secretary Mark Esper refutes Trump's claim that
Following the massive blast in Beirut that killed 135 people and injured thousands, people are accusing the government of negligence over the storage of ammonium nitrate. / Associated Press Related: Mapping the damage from the Beirut explosion. / The New York Times Defense Secretary Mark Esper refutes Trump's claim that
A massive explosion in Beirut kills at least 100 people and injures more than 4,000. Photos show a city in tatters. / BBC News, Al Jazeera A study finds Americans feel overwhelmed by the volume and speed of news they see online. / Knight Foundation How to evaluate COVID-19 news? You
Two months down, one to go. Welcome to August at Camp ToB 2020, where we're discussing the first half of Writers & Lovers by Lily King.
A massive explosion in Beirut kills at least 100 people and injures more than 4,000. Photos show a city in tatters. / BBC News, Al Jazeera A study finds Americans feel overwhelmed by the volume and speed of news they see online. / Knight Foundation How to evaluate COVID-19 news? Find
The chief adviser to the Trump administration's accelerated vaccine program says media scrutiny into his pharma stock ownership could delay a vaccine. / BuzzFeed News How the pandemic defeated America: chronically underfunded public health and an unhealthy population. / The Atlantic See also: Trump has signed an executive order to
The chief adviser to the Trump administration's accelerated vaccine program says media scrutiny into his pharma stock ownership could delay a vaccine. / BuzzFeed News How the pandemic defeated America: chronically underfunded public health and an unhealthy population. / The Atlantic See also: Trump has signed an executive order to
Six months into a respiratory pandemic, people are still doing surprisingly little to mitigate airborne transmission. / The Atlantic A school that opened in Indiana this week had to quarantine students within hours. / The New York Times A school superintendent in Arizona: “I’m worried. I’m worried about everything.” / The
Six months into a respiratory pandemic, people are still doing surprisingly little to mitigate airborne transmission. / The Atlantic A school that opened in Indiana this week had to quarantine students within hours. / The New York Times A school superintendent in Arizona: “I’m worried. I’m worried about everything.” / The
The World Health Organization reports a record increase in global coronavirus cases, with the total rising by 292,527. / The Guardian Russia plans a mass vaccination campaign against the coronavirus in October, the health minister says. Dr. Fauci says the United States’ lack of a unified federal plan helps to
The World Health Organization reports a record increase in global coronavirus cases, with the total rising by 292,527. / The Guardian Russia plans a mass vaccination campaign against the coronavirus in October, the health minister says. / BBC News Dr. Fauci says the United States’ lack of a unified federal plan
In a tweet yesterday, Trump suggested delaying the election. Though he doesn't have the legal authority to change that date, his point was really to cast doubt on mail-in ballots and the election results. / CNN A co-founder of the Federalist Society: "This latest tweet is fascistic and
In a tweet yesterday, Trump suggested delaying the election. Though he doesn't have the legal authority to change that date, his point was really to cast doubt on mail-in ballots and the election results. / CNN A co-founder of the Federalist Society: "This latest tweet is fascistic and
Russia continues to run operations against the US, and the president continues to be unwilling to confront the Kremlin about it. / The Washington Post Related: Trump confirms he has never raised the bounty issue with Putin. / Politico China's incarceration of its Uighur population is the largest mass internment
Russia continues to run operations against the US, and the president continues to be unwilling to confront the Kremlin about it. / The Washington Post Trump confirms he never has raised the bounty issue with Putin. / Politico China's incarceration of its Uighur population is the largest mass internment of
Arkansas, California, Florida, Montana, Oregon and Texas report record spikes in coronavirus fatalities on Tuesday, and cases in Texas pass the 400,000 mark. / Reuters The head of the Republican party attacks the government’s top infectious disease official, alleging a scheme to spread COVID-19. / The Wall Street Journal The
We're wrapping up our July reading with the conclusion of Such a Fun Age. Then it's your turn to decide which of this month's book heads to our end-of-summer finale.
Arkansas, California, Florida, Montana, Oregon, and Texas report record spikes in coronavirus fatalities on Tuesday, while cases in Texas pass the 400,000 mark. / Reuters The head of the Republican party attacks the government’s top infectious disease official, alleging a scheme to spread COVID-19. / The Wall Street Journal The
Details on what’s inside the Republicans’ delayed $1 trillion stimulus bill as they enter negotiations with Democrats, who prefer the $3 trillion plan they passed back in May. / NPR To make Trump care more about the coronavirus, advisors present him with maps showing spikes in cases among “our people.
Details on what’s inside the Republicans’ delayed $1 trillion stimulus bill as they enter negotiations with Democrats, who prefer the $3 trillion plan they passed back in May. / NPR To make Trump care more about the coronavirus, advisors present him with maps showing spikes in cases among “our people.
Coronavirus deaths in the US are at their highest level in two months, topping 1,000 for four consecutive days. / The Washington Post One way South Korea has been able to quash the coronavirus: Contract tracers working in a society willing to sacrifice privacy for the greater good. / Bloomberg North
Coronavirus deaths in the US are at their highest level in two months, topping 1,000 for four consecutive days. / The Washington Post One way South Korea has been able to quash the coronavirus: Contract tracers working in a society willing to sacrifice privacy for the greater good. / Bloomberg North
Over the past week, nearly 40 countries had record single-day increases in confirmed COVID-19 infections. Fauci: A coronavirus vaccine likely won't be widely available until deeper into 2021. With just two drugs shown effective against COVID-19, the NIH will begin a "flurry" of large clinical trials
Over the past week, nearly 40 countries had record single-day increases in confirmed COVID-19 infections. 1/22 | Reuters Fauci: A coronavirus vaccine likely won't be widely available until deeper into 2021. 2/22 | CNBC With just two drugs shown effective against COVID-19, the NIH will begin a "
With 1 million new cases in the past 15 days, the US has now passed 4 million total coronavirus cases, with hospitalizations reaching a record high. California now finds itself at the center of the pandemic twice over. In Southern California, Huntington Beach has come “to symbolize resistance to many
Some additional technical difficulties prevented yesterday’s newsletter from going out (sigh), so here’s an extra-large batch. Have a safe, good weekend. With 1 million new cases in the past 15 days, the US has now passed 4 million total coronavirus cases, with hospitalizations reaching a record high. 1/
Three books down, three to go. We're on to the back half of Camp ToB 2020, as we begin our second July read: Kiley Reid's debut novel, Such a Fun Age.
Coronavirus infections in the US are much higher than confirmed, but far below what’s required for widespread immunity. In light of expiring CARES Act benefits, how state jobless benefits stack up against workers’ wages. Republican arguments about unemployment insurance de-incentivizing people to work ignore a harsh reality: many people
Coronavirus infections in the US are much higher than confirmed, but far below what’s required for widespread immunity. 1/23 | NPR In light of expiring CARES Act benefits, how state jobless benefits stack up against workers’ wages. 2/23 | CBS News Republican arguments about unemployment insurance de-incentivizing people to
Trump doubles down on sending federal law enforcement to cities with protests—and says of the cities he's considering, all are “run by very liberal Democrats." Portland, Ore., vet in viral video says he was struck after asking unmarked feds if they would uphold their oath to
Trump doubles down on sending federal law enforcement to cities with protests—and says of the cities he's considering, all are "run by very liberal Democrats." 1/21 | The Washington Post The Portland, Ore., vet in a viral video says he was struck after asking unmarked
The White House is trying to block billions in the upcoming coronavirus relief bill for states to conduct testing and contact tracing. The US has been incapable of controlling the pandemic, and now the government resists addressing the resulting economic reality. The source of our inability to control the pandemic
The US has been incapable of controlling the pandemic, and now the government resists addressing the resulting economic reality. 1/17 | Vox The source of our inability goes back to mid-April, when Trump embraced "overly rosy projections to proclaim victory and move on." 2/17 | The New York
The US hit a new record high in new coronavirus infections this week, with more than 77,000 cases reported on Thursday. Florida, South Carolina, and Texas also reported their largest one-day spikes in fatalities. See also: Texas ICUs are overwhelmed with coronavirus patients, some of whom are being transported
Please note: We ran into some technical difficulties yesterday and were unable to send out the newsletter. So here's a double edition of Headlines—enjoy! The US hit a new record high in new coronavirus infections this week, with more than 77,000 cases reported on Thursday. Florida,
The number of deaths from the coronavirus in Latin America for the first time exceeds the figure for North America. Meanwhile, a second death surge is coming for the United States. Governors and mayors scramble to issue new mask orders and limit the size of gatherings. COVID-19 vaccine trials are
The number of deaths from the coronavirus in Latin America for the first time exceeds the figure for North America. Meanwhile, a second death surge is coming for the United States. 1/25 | Reuters, The Atlantic Governors and mayors scramble to issue new mask orders and limit the size of
In what's thought to be the first case, a baby contracted COVID-19 while still in the womb (and has made a full recovery). Echocardiograms of COVID-19 patients show heart damage in 55% of the scans. One in seven have "severe abnormalities." Some first-person reporting: “I took
This week we're discussing the second half of Louise Erdrich's The Night Watchman—shockers, spoilers, and all.
In what's thought to be the first case, a baby contracted COVID-19 while still in the womb (and has made a full recovery). 1/22 | VICE Echocardiograms of COVID-19 patients show heart damage in 55% of scans. One in seven have "severe abnormalities." 2/22 | The
As of last week, the President of the United States has made over 20,000 false or misleading claims. A 30-year-old Texan dies after attending “a COVID party,” saying he thought the disease was a hoax. Dr. Fauci, now frequently derided by the White House and Donald Trump, says on
As of last week, the President of the United States has made over 20,000 false or misleading claims. 1/22 | The Washington Post A 30-year-old Texan dies after attending “a COVID party,” saying he thought the disease was a hoax. 2/22 | KSAT Dr. Fauci, now frequently derided by
On Saturday, Florida reported at least 15,299 new COVID-19 cases, a new record for the most new cases in a single day in any state. Now with no active coronavirus cases, New Zealand lifts most restrictions, though its borders remain closed to foreigners. New York City has reported its
On Saturday, Florida reported at least 15,299 new COVID-19 cases, a new record for the most new cases in a single day in any state. 1/19 | CNN Now with no active coronavirus cases, New Zealand lifts most restrictions, though its borders remain closed to foreigners. 2/19 | BBC
Trump has commuted the prison sentence for Roger Stone, who had reportedly been "praying" for Trump to do so. After months of decline, America's death rate from coronavirus has risen sharply, with death tolls increasing by more than 100% in Texas, Arizona, and South Carolina. Scientists
Trump has commuted the prison sentence for Roger Stone, who had reportedly been "praying" for Trump to do so. 1/21 | POLITICO, The Hill After months of decline, America's death rate from coronavirus has risen sharply, with death tolls increasing by more than 100% in Texas,
The Supreme Court says Trump doesn’t enjoy absolute immunity from a state prosecutor’s criminal investigation. They also say he enjoys special rules. In a 5-to-4 decision invoking the country’s long history of mistreating Native Americans, the Court rules that much of eastern Oklahoma remains Indian land. A
The Supreme Court says Trump doesn’t enjoy absolute immunity from a state prosecutor’s criminal investigation. It also says he enjoys special rules. 1/27 | Vox In a 5-to-4 decision invoking the country’s long history of mistreating Native Americans, the Court rules that much of eastern Oklahoma remains
The Supreme Court has ruled Trump isn't immune from the Manhattan DA’s request to obtain the president's tax returns. Civil rights groups are concerned by potential fallout from the Supreme Court ruling in favor of employers who want to deny birth control coverage for religious
The Supreme Court has ruled Trump isn't immune from the Manhattan DA's request to obtain the president's tax returns. 1/21 | NBC News Civil rights groups are concerned by potential fallout from the Supreme Court ruling in favor of employers who want to deny
Secretary of State Pompeo says the US may follow India and ban TikTok for security concerns. The FBI says it’s opening a new China-related counterintelligence case “approximately every ten hours.” Canada's Trudeau turns down a White House invitation to visit. Were he to travel to the US,
It's a new month and a new book matchup at Camp ToB. This week we're discussing the first half of Louise Erdrich's The Night Watchman.
Secretary of State Pompeo says the US may follow India and ban TikTok for security concerns. The FBI says it’s opening a new China-related counterintelligence case “approximately every ten hours.” 1/24 | CNBC, Axios Canada's Trudeau turns down a White House invitation to visit. Were he to
The US is now approaching three million COVID-19 cases, and hospitals in many states are reporting unprecedented levels of hospitalizations. After weeks of controlling coronavirus outbreaks, California is becoming a new hot spot, with cases up 90% over the past two weeks. An honest attempt to answer Cornyn's
The US is now approaching three million COVID-19 cases, and hospitals in many states are reporting unprecedented levels of hospitalizations. 1/25 | US News & World Report After weeks of controlling coronavirus outbreaks, California is becoming a new hot spot, with cases up 90% over the past two weeks. 2/
About 45 million Americans have recently lost their jobs during the pandemic. At the same time, US. billionaires made $584 billion. Seattle clears the Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone. Russia votes for constitutional changes to enable Putin to rule until 2036. Polls show a high level of enthusiasm for voting this
TMN is taking a few days off. We’ll see you on Monday. About 45 million Americans have lost their jobs during the pandemic. At the same time, US billionaires made $584 billion. 1/22 | ABC News Seattle clears the Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone. 2/22 | The Seattle Times Russia
Fauci says at the current pace, US coronavirus infections could top 100,000 new cases a day. The CDC calls American Airlines' decision to resume full flight capacity a "substantial disappointment." The EU announces it will now allow travel from certain countries that have been hit by
Fauci says at the current pace, US coronavirus infections could top 100,000 new cases a day. 1/21 | STAT The CDC calls American Airlines' decision to resume full flight capacity a "substantial disappointment." 2/21 | CNBC The EU announces it will now allow travel from certain
China formally adopts a controversial security law, giving it new powers over Hong Kong. In anticipation, the US begins eliminating Hong Kong’s special status. The CDC says the coronavirus is spreading too rapidly and broadly for the US to get it under control. Looking back on January and February,
China formally adopts a controversial security law, giving it new powers over Hong Kong. In anticipation, the US begins eliminating Hong Kong’s special status. 1/25 | BBC News, CNBC The CDC says the coronavirus is spreading too rapidly and broadly for the US to get it under control. 2/
As of yesterday, there have now been 500,000 confirmed deaths worldwide and 10 million cases of COVID-19—and record-breaking daily new infections. Public health experts dispute Pence and Azar's claims that increased testing, not reopening, is the cause for the uptick in COVID-19 cases. One possibility for
As of yesterday, there have now been 500,000 confirmed deaths worldwide and 10 million cases of COVID-19—and record-breaking daily new infections. 1/19 | The Associated Press Public health experts dispute Pence and Azar's claims that increased testing, not reopening, is the cause for the uptick in
The White House renews trying to kill the Affordable Care Act in a brief filed with the Supreme Court. Democrats see the effort playing in their favor. The House of Representatives votes to make Washington DC the 51st state; the Senate is not expected to consider the legislation. Pending US
The White House renews trying to kill off the Affordable Care Act in a brief filed with the Supreme Court. Democrats see the effort playing in their favor. 1/22 | NPR, Politico The House of Representatives votes to make Washington DC the 51st state; the Senate is not expected to
The US has had more than 1 million jobless claims a week for 14 straight weeks. Millions face an “income cliff” if their CARES Act support ends in July. Across the United States, 39,327 new coronavirus infections were on Thursday, topping the previous single-day record of 38,115, which
The US has had more than 1 million jobless claims a week for 14 straight weeks. Millions face an “income cliff” if their CARES Act support ends in July. 1/18 | NBC News, CNBC Across the United States, 39,327 new coronavirus infections were reported Thursday, topping the previous single-day
The US experienced its highest single day of new coronavirus cases on Wednesday with more than 45,500, breaking its April record. A study finds cable news appearances by the White House’s coronavirus task force have fallen from 61 appearances in March to just one appearance so far in
We added a new feature where we name our sources under each headline. Reply and let us know if you spot any bugs. Thanks! The US experienced its highest single day of new coronavirus cases on Wednesday with more than 45,500, breaking the April record. 1/22 | NBC News
Dr Fauci, America's top infectious disease expert, warns of "a disturbing surge of infection" and "increased community spread" in many southern and western states. The CDC’s director says Covid-19 has "brought this nation to its knees." The US has handled the
Dr Fauci, America's top infectious disease expert, warns of "a disturbing surge of infection" and "increased community spread" in many southern and western states. 1/24 The CDC’s director says Covid-19 has "brought this nation to its knees." 2/24 The
This week we finish discussing the second half of Sharks in the Time of Saviors—and then it's time for you to decide which of our June reads heads to the end-of-summer finale.
State and city leaders in the US respond to a surge in coronavirus cases by implementing new rules, scaling back on reopening plans. In many areas, Latinos comprise a dramatically higher percentage of positive COVID-19 tests. The director of the Harvard Global Health Institute says more than 100,000 Americans
State and city leaders in the US respond to a surge in coronavirus cases by implementing new rules, scaling back on reopening plans. 1/21 In many areas, Latinos comprise a dramatically higher percentage of positive COVID-19 tests. 2/21 The director of the Harvard Global Health Institute says more
The WHO reports the largest single-day increase in coronavirus cases, more than 183,000 new cases in the latest 24 hours. A dozen states have seen record highs of new COVID-19 cases since Friday. One expert likens the spread to a “forest fire.” The era of the pandemic may also
The WHO reports the largest single-day increase in coronavirus cases, more than 183,000 new cases in the latest 24 hours. 1/19 A dozen states have seen record highs of new COVID-19 cases since Friday. One expert likens the spread to a “forest fire.” 2/19 The era of
"Being Black Is not a Crime," says a full-page ad in the Oklahoma Eagle, meant to be turned into a protest poster. 1/23 From the Tulsa World’s editorial on Monday: “We don’t know why he chose Tulsa, but we can’t see any way that
"Being Black Is not a Crime," says a full-page ad in the Oklahoma Eagle, meant to be turned into a protest poster. From the Tulsa World’s editorial on Monday: “We don’t know why he chose Tulsa, but we can’t see any way that his visit
The Supreme Court has blocked Trump's plan to end DACA, concluding the administration violated the Administrative Procedure Act by not taking into account the interests of the 700,000 DREAMers. Why all Americans should celebrate Juneteenth: it helps us see all the ways that slavery still shapes this
The Supreme Court has blocked Trump's plan to end DACA, concluding the administration violated the Administrative Procedure Act by not taking into account the interests of the 700,000 DREAMers. 1/24 Why all Americans should celebrate Juneteenth: it helps us see all the ways that slavery still
The new book from John Bolton accuses Donald Trump of “obstruction of justice as a way of life.” For example, asking China to help him win reelection. “The thing is, there's not a Republican in the Senate who didn't know all this already. They chose party
The new book from John Bolton accuses Donald Trump of “obstruction of justice as a way of life.” For example, asking China to help him win reelection. 1/26 “The thing is, there's not a Republican in the Senate who didn't know all this already. They
This week we move over to our second book for June: Kawai Strong Washburn’s debut novel, Sharks in the Time of Saviors.
In its deadliest clash in 45 years, a disputed Himalayan border sees 20 Indian soldiers die in a fight with Chinese forces. Here’s the India-China border explained in 400 words. See also: “Why North Korea just blew up its de facto embassy with South Korea.” China ramps up containment
In its deadliest clash in 45 years, a disputed Himalayan border sees 20 Indian soldiers die in a fight with Chinese forces. Here’s the India-China border explained in 400 words. 1/21 Another explainer: “Why North Korea just blew up its de facto embassy with South Korea.” 2/21
Six months into the pandemic, Donald G. McNeil Jr., science and health reporter for The New York Times, tells Michael Barbaro where we’re at. The Vice President blatantly lies to reporters about the trajectory of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma, ahead of Saturday’s Trump rally. The Fed begins purchasing
Six months into the pandemic, Donald G. McNeil Jr., science and health reporter for the New York Times, tells Michael Barbaro where we’re at. 1/22 The Vice President blatantly lies to reporters about the trajectory of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma, ahead of Saturday’s Trump rally. 2/22
Protests are happening in Atlanta after police killed Rayshard Brooks, a 27-year-old Black man, shooting him in the back as he ran away during a traffic stop. In a preview of Republicans' police reform bill, a major difference with Democrats' legislation is that qualified immunity remains untouched. Firing
Protests are happening in Atlanta after police killed Rayshard Brooks, a 27-year-old Black man, shooting him in the back as he ran away during a traffic stop. 1/20 In a preview of Republicans' police reform bill, a major difference with Democrats' legislation is that qualified immunity remains
The Trump administration has rolled back Obama-era health and insurance nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people. In its coverage of Seattle protests, Fox News digitally altered photos to include a gunman. A legal analysis of whether a government drone flying over protests in Minneapolis was a violation of the Fourth Amendment.
The Trump administration has rolled back Obama-era health and insurance nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people. 1/18 In its coverage of Seattle protests, Fox News digitally altered photos to include a gunman. 2/18 A legal analysis of whether a government drone flying over protests in Minneapolis was a violation
Two months after the International Criminal Court approved an investigation into potential war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan, the White House imposes sanctions against court officials. A court-appointed adviser says the attempt to undo Michael Flynn's conviction is “a gross abuse of prosecutorial power.” The chairman of
Two months after the International Criminal Court approved an investigation into potential war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan, the White House imposes sanctions against court officials. 1/24 A court-appointed adviser says the attempt to undo Michael Flynn's conviction is “a gross abuse of prosecutorial power.” 2/
A second wave of COVID-19 cases is occurring in parts of the US, as the confirmed total number of infections tops two million. But the White House remains silent on the coronavirus. Though their coronavirus cases are still rising, India, Mexico, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan are ending lockdowns in order
A second wave of COVID-19 cases is occurring in parts of the US, as the confirmed total number of infections tops two million. But the White House remains silent on the coronavirus. 1/25 Though their coronavirus cases are still rising, India, Mexico, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan are ending lockdowns
On Tuesday, all eyes were on Houston as George Floyd was honored before being laid to rest next to his mother. A timeline uses video and other records to document the clearing of protesters outside the White House before Trump’s photo-op. A New York City police officer who shoved
On Tuesday, all eyes were on Houston as George Floyd was honored before being laid to rest next to his mother. 1/22 A timeline uses video and other records to document the clearing of protesters outside the White House before Trump’s photo-op. 2/22 A New York City
It's DNFs versus TBRs this week at Camp ToB, as we wrap up N.K. Jemisin's The City We Became.
Thousands turned out in Houston for George Floyd's public visitation yesterday. Photos of demonstrations around the US show how massive the protests are. Related: In Los Angeles, a hundred black horse riders came out for the Compton Cowboys Peace Ride. A Google Sheet has collected hundreds of videos
Thousands turned out in Houston for George Floyd's public visitation yesterday. 1/26 Photos of demonstrations around the US show how massive the protests are. 2/26 Related: In Los Angeles, a hundred black horse riders came out for the Compton Cowboys Peace Ride. 3/26 A Google
From big cities to small towns, to foreign capitals around the world, the weekend’s protests against police brutality were massive. And they may continue through November. “On Monday, they were forcibly removed from the street by law enforcement. On Saturday, they danced.” Washington D.C.’s mayor had “Black
From big cities to small towns, to foreign capitals around the world, this weekend’s protests against police brutality were massive. They may continue through November. 1/23 “On Monday, they were forcibly removed from the street by law enforcement. On Saturday, they danced.” 2/23 Washington DC’s mayor
Earth just had the hottest May on record, with 2020 on track to be one of the top 10 warmest years, alarming climate scientists. Restoring summer tourism isn’t just an economic necessity for Europe, but also a cultural one. A large group of infectious disease experts publish an open
Earth just had the hottest May on record, with 2020 on track to be one of the top 10 warmest years, alarming climate scientists. 1/23 Restoring summer tourism isn’t just an economic necessity for Europe, but also a cultural one. 2/23 A large group of infectious disease
Buffalo police claimed an elderly protestor "tripped and fell" until a viral video proved they were lying. Related: "That awful video in which a white person is getting their skull cracked by a cop? That happens to black people ALL THE TIME." Police may be killing
Buffalo police claimed an elderly protestor "tripped and fell" until a viral video proved they were lying. 1/27 Related: "That awful video in which a white person is getting their skull cracked by a cop? That happens to black people ALL THE TIME." 2/27
Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin now faces second-degree murder, and three other officers at the scene are charged with aiding and abetting. In the United States, there were only 27 days in 2019 where the police did not kill someone. In March, Manuel Ellis of Tacoma, Wash., died as a
Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin now faces second-degree murder in the killing of George Floyd. Three other officers at the scene are charged with aiding and abetting. 1/20 In the United States, there were only 27 days in 2019 where the police did not kill someone. 2/20 In
Police brutality prompted this week’s protests. In some cities and towns, the police response has only proved the protesters' point. Meanwhile, Black Lives Matter is working: the number of black people killed by the police has gone down since 2014. A bipartisan group of lawmakers is scrutinizing a
Camp ToB 2020 is officially in session! This week, we're discussing the first half of N.K. Jemisin's The City We Became.
Police brutality prompted this week’s protests. In some cities and towns, the police response has only proved the protesters' point. 1/24 Meanwhile, Black Lives Matter is working: the number of black people killed by the police has gone down since 2014. 2/24 A bipartisan group of
Peaceful protesters near the White House were gassed and shot so the President of the United States could have a photo op in a church after threatening to rain down military force on his own citizens. The New York Times takes widespread heat for treating the moment blithely on its
Peaceful protesters near the White House were gassed and shot so the President of the United States could have a photo op in a church after threatening to rain down military force on his own citizens. 1/20 The New York Times takes widespread heat for treating the moment blithely
Yesterday, peaceful demonstrations over the murder of George Floyd continued across the US—though some protests are being overshadowed by people looting and rioting. Scenes of police brutality have been on display during the protests. See also: "Police erupt in violence nationwide." Protests are now heading outside the
Yesterday, peaceful demonstrations over the murder of George Floyd continued across the US—while some protests are being overshadowed by people looting and rioting. 1/21 Scenes of police brutality have been on display during the protests. 2/21 See also: "Police erupt in violence nationwide." 3/21
Last night and this morning, protests—some turning violent—have continued across the US in response to the murder of George Floyd. Derek Chauvin, the fired Minneapolis officer who killed Floyd, has been arrested and charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. For a higher murder charge, prosecutors would need
Last night and this morning, protests—some turning violent—have continued across the US in response to the murder of George Floyd. 1/25 Derek Chauvin, the fired Minneapolis officer who killed Floyd, has been arrested and charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. 2/25 For a higher murder
Minneapolis enters a fourth day of unrest in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death. Photos capture the stark contrast in police response to the George Floyd protests and the anti-lockdown protests. Twitter hides a tweet from President Trump—"When the looting starts, the shooting starts"—for glorifying
Minneapolis enters a fourth day of unrest in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death. 1/20 Photos capture the stark contrast in police response to the Floyd protests and the anti-lockdown protests. 2/20 Twitter hides a tweet from President Trump—"When the looting starts, the shooting starts&
More than 100,000 people in the US have now died of the coronavirus. Public health experts say the CDC's new COVID-19 death rate estimates are too low, and accuse the agency of bowing to political pressure to minimize the deadliness of the coronavirus. So far, predominantly Democratic
More than 100,000 people in the US have now died of the coronavirus. 1/29 Public health experts say the CDC's new COVID-19 death rate estimates are too low, and accuse the agency of bowing to political pressure to minimize the deadliness of the coronavirus. 2/29
Latin America is now the center of the global pandemic, with cases surging in Brazil. India begins loosening restrictions. In Russia, the statistics show signs of fraud. A live-tracking map shows where the coronavirus outbreak is growing in the United States, and where it’s slowing down. In case you
Latin America is now the center of the global pandemic, with cases surging in Brazil. Meanwhile, India begins loosening restrictions. In Russia, statistics show signs of fraud. 1/24 A live-tracking map shows where the coronavirus outbreak is growing in the United States, and where it’s slowing down. 2/
Beijing will impose new security legislation for Hong Kong. It's China's most aggressive move to curtail civil liberties for Hong Kong residents since the city's 1997 handover. The man who filmed the shooting of Ahmaud Arbery has now been charged with felony murder "
Please note: We'll be off through the holiday weekend, and will return on Wednesday morning. See you then! Beijing will impose new security legislation for Hong Kong. It's China's most aggressive move to curtail civil liberties for Hong Kong residents since the city'
State officials in Florida, Arizona, and Georgia get caught censoring scientists and/or providing questionable COVID-19 case data. 1/21 Florida's top data scientist says she was ousted for refusing to manually change data "to drum up support for the plan to reopen." 2/21 Brazil
State officials in Florida, Arizona, and Georgia caught censoring scientists and/or providing questionable COVID-19 case data. Florida’s top data scientist says she was ousted for refusing to manually change data “to drum up support for the plan to reopen.” Brazil reports a record high number of COVID-19 deaths,
As of today, all 50 US states have begun easing coronavirus restrictions. States are facing accusations of manipulating COVID-19 data in order to support reopening plans. "They've already been vetted. But they need to be put on the screens." GOP advisors want doctors to publicly push
As of today, all 50 US states have begun easing coronavirus restrictions. 1/23 States are facing accusations of manipulating COVID-19 data in order to support reopening plans. 2/23 "They've already been vetted. But they need to be put on the screens." GOP advisors want
The UK announces a new post-Brexit tariff regime to replace the European Union’s external tariff. A Federalist approach to reopening the United States by July 4 requires color-coded zones across the country and testing, testing, testing. With the pandemic still spreading fast, the US and its allies may be
The UK announces a new post-Brexit tariff regime to replace the European Union’s external tariff. 1/23 A Federalist approach to reopening the United States by July 4 would require color-coded zones across the country and testing, testing, testing. 2/23 With the pandemic still spreading fast, the US
Nearly 90,000 people in the US have now died of COVID-19. The White House introduces a plan to develop and manufacture hundreds of millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses by the end of the year. Brazil now has the fourth-highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases—after the US, Russia, and
Nearly 90,000 people in the US have now died of COVID-19. 1/17 The White House introduces a plan to develop and manufacture hundreds of millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses by the end of the year. 2/17 Brazil now has the fourth-highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases—after
Graphs show which US states are seeing COVID-19 cases increasing or decreasing. See also: Where coronavirus hospitalizations are rising and falling. This week the Senate came within one vote of upending part of the Patriot Act's warrantless browser spying. With work-based health coverage taking a hit, America'
Graphs show which US states are seeing COVID-19 cases increasing or decreasing. 1/18 See also: Where coronavirus hospitalizations are rising and falling. 2/18 This week the Senate came within one vote of upending part of the Patriot Act's warrantless browser spying. 3/18 With work-based health
Russia now has the second-highest number of reported coronavirus cases in the world, behind the US. Mexico is said to be severely undercounting its virus deaths. Meanwhile, New Zealand is reopening businesses and schools after three straight days of no new cases. Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia establish Europe’s first
Russia now has the second-highest number of reported coronavirus cases in the world, behind the US. 1/24 Mexico is said to be severely undercounting its virus deaths. Meanwhile, New Zealand is reopening businesses and schools after three straight days of no new cases. 2/24 Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia
Wisconsin's Supreme Court overturns the state's stay-at-home orders and limits the governor's powers to implement future restrictions. The FBI has seized Sen. Burr's phone in a federal probe into his stock sales during the early weeks of the pandemic. The World Health
Wisconsin's Supreme Court overturns the state's stay-at-home orders and limits the governor's powers to implement future restrictions. 1/20 The FBI has seized Sen. Burr's phone in a federal probe into his stock sales during the early weeks of the pandemic. 2/
Over 80,000 Americans have died of coronavirus. Millions are out of work. And the president is busy constructing a separate reality to keep fans distracted. A list of Mr. Trump's favorite coronavirus talking points (i.e., lies) that Fauci's Senate testimony debunked. Regarding meat plants:
Over 80,000 Americans have died of the coronavirus. Millions are out of work. And the president is busy constructing a separate reality to keep fans distracted. 1/22 A list of Mr. Trump's favorite coronavirus talking points (i.e., lies) that Fauci's Senate testimony debunked.
More than 200 people were arrested during anti-government protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, as authorities seek to prevent a revival of last year’s massive demonstrations. Wuhan will test 11 million citizens for coronavirus after six new cases emerge. Governors are winning bipartisan support for handling of pandemic, but
More than 200 people were arrested during anti-government protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, as authorities seek to prevent a revival of last year’s massive demonstrations. 1/20 Wuhan will test 11 million citizens for the coronavirus after six new cases emerge. 2/20 Governors are winning bipartisan support
Here's one summer camp that definitely won't be canceled. Vote now for the books you want to see at Camp ToB 2020.
As the White House faces its own virus outbreak, the Vice President self-isolates while Dr. Fauci is under quarantine. On Tuesday, the Supreme Court will hear three cases over Trump’s financial records. Boris Johnson unveils a "conditional plan" to reopen British society with a new “Covid Alert
As the White House faces its own virus outbreak, the Vice President self-isolates while Dr. Fauci is under quarantine. 1/17 On Tuesday, the Supreme Court will hear three cases over Trump’s financial records. 2/17 Boris Johnson unveils a "conditional plan" to reopen British society with
Researchers say the coronavirus outbreak in New York City became the primary source of infections around the United States. Plane travel was already rife with small indignities. An anecdotal report finds it’s even worse right now. A fundraiser to help Native Americans fight the outbreak takes off in Ireland,
Researchers say the coronavirus outbreak in New York City became the primary source of infections around the United States. 1/19 Plane travel was already rife with small indignities. An anecdotal report finds it’s even worse right now. 2/19 A fundraiser to help Native Americans fight the outbreak
European leaders hold muted commemorations to mark the end of World War II on the continent. France (though not Paris) begins reopening next week, Australia likely soon after. Many governors across the US are disregarding or “creatively interpreting” White House guidelines for safely easing restrictions. The Trump administration buries a
European leaders hold muted commemorations to mark the end of World War II on the continent. 1/22 France (though not Paris) begins reopening next week, Australia likely soon after. 2/22 Many governors across the US are disregarding or “creatively interpreting” White House guidelines for safely easing restrictions. 3/
A day after announcing the end of the coronavirus task force, Trump says it will now continue "indefinitely." Trump is urging the Supreme Court to overturn Obamacare, apparently ignoring Barr's argument that parts of the law should remain in place during the pandemic. It will take
A day after announcing the end of the coronavirus task force, Trump says it will now continue "indefinitely." 1/24 Trump is urging the Supreme Court to overturn Obamacare, apparently ignoring Barr's argument that parts of the law should remain in place during the pandemic. 2/
The US lost another vital month in responding to COVID-19, pretty much plateauing in its number of daily coronavirus tests. The White House says its coronavirus task force will wrap up around the end of this month. A series of interactive simulations to explain how epidemics grow. According to a
The US lost another vital month in responding to COVID-19, pretty much plateauing in its number of daily coronavirus tests. 1/26 The White House says its coronavirus task force will wrap up around the end of this month. 2/26 A series of interactive simulations to explain how epidemics
The US plans to borrow $3 trillion in the second quarter to finance stimulus efforts, more than five times what it borrowed in a single quarter during 2008. The US and UK begin talks for a post-Brexit trade agreement. For the third time in two weeks, a whistleblowing Russian healthcare
The US plans to borrow $3 trillion in the second quarter to finance stimulus efforts, more than five times what it borrowed in a single quarter during 2008. 1/18 The US and UK begin talks for a post-Brexit trade agreement. 2/18 For the third time in two weeks,
Europe's longest coronavirus lockdown ends in Italy today, as four million people return to work. South Korea says it traded gunfire at the DMZ with North Korea, and reports no casualties. Pompeo says there is "enormous evidence" the coronavirus pandemic began in a Wuhan laboratory, and
Europe's longest coronavirus lockdown ends in Italy today, as four million people return to work. 1/17 South Korea says it traded gunfire at the DMZ with North Korea, and reports no casualties. 2/17 Pompeo says there is "enormous evidence" the coronavirus pandemic began in
The FDA has authorized the use of remdesivir in patients who are severely ill with suspected or diagnosed COVID-19. Canada’s Trudeau: "Effective immediately, it is no longer permitted to buy, sell, transport, import or use military-grade assault weapons in this country." Citing a state medical privacy law,
The FDA has authorized the use of remdesivir in patients who are severely ill with suspected or diagnosed COVID-19. 1/21 Canada's Trudeau: "Effective immediately, it is no longer permitted to buy, sell, transport, import or use military-grade assault weapons in this country." 2/21 Citing
Half of American adults say they find it difficult to sift through what’s true and what’s false right now. Part of that is likely due to the pandemic’s scale and pace, but part is our own fault as humans. Related: A simple method for spotting coronavirus misinformation
Half of American adults say they find it difficult to sift through what’s true and what’s false right now. Part of that is likely due to the pandemic’s scale and pace, but part is our own fault as humans. 1/23 Related: A simple method for spotting
"What it has proven is that a drug can block this virus." A clinical trial of remdesivir shows promising results—though an earlier trial in China found no "significant clinical benefits." "If the first results from antibody surveys in the US are anything to judge
"What it has proven is that a drug can block this virus." A clinical trial of remdesivir shows promising results—though an earlier trial in China found no "significant clinical benefits." 1/28 "If the first results from antibody surveys in the US are anything
The US passed 1 million confirmed Covid-19 cases on Tuesday. Frontline officials from other countries explain what the United States needs to do to re-open. About rebuilding: “The notion of putting 7,000 people in a building may be a thing of the past.” Amsterdam plans to embrace an Earth-friendly
The United States passed 1 million confirmed Covid-19 cases on Tuesday. 1/19 Frontline officials from other countries explain what the US needs to do to re-open. 2/19 About rebuilding: “The notion of putting 7,000 people in a building may be a thing of the past.” 3/19
A state-by-state breakdown of COVID-19 testing shows many fall short of the levels needed for a safe reopening. See also: A new model shows contact reduction is tied to how sharply the death toll rises in each US state. Texas will allow certain businesses and facilities to operate with reduced
A state-by-state breakdown of COVID-19 testing shows many fall short of the levels needed for a safe reopening. 1/29 See also: A new model shows contact reduction is tied to how sharply the death toll rises in each US state. 2/29 Texas will allow certain businesses and facilities
Vietnam begins easing its aggressive containment campaign after few infections and no deaths. China says all coronavirus patients in Wuhan have now been discharged. Another bright spot: during a pandemic, the odds of a war between major powers seem to go down, not up. Also, we’re getting closer to
Vietnam begins easing its aggressive containment campaign after few infections and no deaths. 1/20 China says all coronavirus patients in Wuhan have now been discharged. 2/20 Another bright spot: During a pandemic, the odds of a war between major powers seem to go down, not up. Also, we’
In the past week, the African continent has seen a more than 40 percent rise in Covid-19 cases. In Kenya and in other African countries, a tragic question for some communities: to eat or to heal? "Governance failures, economic inequalities, societal resilience." A range of young scholars talk
In the past week, the African continent has seen a more than 40 percent rise in Covid-19 cases. 1/20 In Kenya and in other countries, a tragic question for some communities: to eat or to heal? 2/20 "Governance failures, economic inequalities, societal resilience." A range of
A new model estimates that instead of the 23 cases confirmed in five major US cities on March 1, there were actually 28,000. See also: Antibody tests show one in five New Yorkers may have had COVID-19. In LA County, the coronavirus is now killing more people every day
A new model estimates that instead of the 23 cases confirmed in five major US cities on March 1, there were actually 28,000. 1/23 See also: Antibody tests show one in five New Yorkers may have had COVID-19. 2/23 In LA County, the coronavirus is now killing
For Earth Day 2020, the side effects of the pandemic offer a glimpse of an alternative future. "What the original Earth Day showed is that, when Americans are mobilized, remarkable things are possible.” Advice from an emergency planner, a mosquito hunter, a survivalist and more on how to prepare
For Earth Day 2020, the side effects of the pandemic offered a glimpse of an alternative future. 1/22 "What the original Earth Day showed is that, when Americans are mobilized, remarkable things are possible.” 2/22 Advice from an emergency planner, a mosquito hunter, a survivalist, and more
The Senate passes a $484 billion coronavirus relief plan that expands testing and provides aid to small businesses and hospitals. The House hopes to approve the legislation today. “If 9/11 and 2008 wore out trust in the old political establishment, 2020 should kill off the idea that anti-politics is
The Senate passes a $484 billion coronavirus relief plan that expands testing and provides aid to small businesses and hospitals. The House hopes to approve the legislation today. 1/20 "If 9/11 and 2008 wore out trust in the old political establishment, 2020 should kill off the idea
The president wants to suspend all immigration to protect the country from an “invisible enemy.” "Trump, who says the country is ready to begin reopening, says the crisis is so bad that he is signing an order 'temporarily suspend immigration into the United States!'" According to
The American president wants to suspend all immigration to protect the country from an “invisible enemy.” 1/21 Another way to put it: "Trump, who says the country is ready to begin reopening, says the crisis is so bad that he is signing an order 'temporarily suspend immigration
The US coronavirus death toll from COVID-19 has topped 40,000 people, among more than 750,000 cases. A live, state-by-state measure of Rt, an important value for how fast COVID-19 is growing. In Nova Scotia, a gunman murdered at least 16 people over the course of 12 hours in
The US coronavirus death toll from COVID-19 has topped 40,000 people, among more than 750,000 cases. 1/21 A live, state-by-state measure of Rt, an important value for how fast COVID-19 is growing. 2/21 In Nova Scotia, a gunman murdered at least 16 people over the course
Health experts say coronavirus testing needs to double or triple before the US can safely reopen. "It's the paradox of public health: When you do it right, nothing happens." Why America is not overreacting to the coronavirus. Florida reopens some of its beaches and parks, but
Health experts say coronavirus testing needs to double or triple before the US can safely reopen. 1/25 "It's the paradox of public health: When you do it right, nothing happens." Why America is not overreacting to the coronavirus. 2/25 Florida reopens some of its
A study finds severe Covid-19 patients who take the antiviral medicine remdesivir experience rapid recoveries, with nearly all patients discharged in less than a week from a Chicago hospital. In case you missed it: TMN’s Rosecrans Baldwin profiles the scientist who figured out remdesivir’s capabilities. New guidelines released
A study finds severe Covid-19 patients who take the antiviral medicine remdesivir experience rapid recoveries, with nearly all patients discharged in less than a week from a Chicago hospital. 1/24 In case you missed it: TMN’s Rosecrans Baldwin profiles the scientist who figured out remdesivir’s capabilities. 2/
This week brings the total number of people in the US who've filed for unemployment benefits to 22 million. The unemployment rate is about to appear artificially low, because the number of people who want work but have been discouraged from looking is exceptionally high—a better measure
This week brings the total number of people in the US who've filed for unemployment benefits to 22 million. 1/21 The unemployment rate is about to appear artificially low, because the number of people who want work but have been discouraged from looking is exceptionally high—a
Think your job has gotten strange in the past month? Imagine being tasked with rescuing humanity from a pandemic. See also: How Anthony Fauci became America’s doctor. The UN and Bill Gates criticize President Trump’s decision to withdraw funding for the World Health Organization. President Obama endorses Joe
Think your job has gotten strange in the past month? Imagine being tasked with rescuing humanity from a pandemic. 1/25 See also: How Anthony Fauci became America’s doctor. 2/25 The UN and Bill Gates criticize President Trump’s decision to withdraw funding for the World Health Organization.
After governors on the East and West coasts formed coalitions to decide when their states will reopen, Trump breaks with the Constitution, claiming his "authority is total" in ordering when to lift restrictions. In a joint livestream, Bernie Sanders endorsed Joe Biden, and asked his supporters to get
After governors on the East and West coasts formed coalitions to decide when their states will reopen, Trump breaks with the Constitution, claiming his "authority is total" in ordering when to lift restrictions. 1/26 In a joint livestream, Bernie Sanders endorsed Joe Biden, and asked his supporters
Tornadoes in Mississippi and Louisiana caused "catastrophic" damage after touching down Sunday. The US overtakes Italy with nearly 22,000 fatalities from Covid-19, the most in the world. There have been at least 3,620 deaths in nursing homes and long-term care facilities, up from around 450 just
Tornadoes in Mississippi and Louisiana caused "catastrophic" damage after touching down Sunday. 1/21 The US overtakes Italy with nearly 22,000 fatalities from Covid-19, the most in the world. 2/21 There have been at least 3,620 deaths in nursing homes and long-term care facilities, up
In the absence of federal direction, states and America’s top experts forge the path ahead. A guide to the stimulus checks being sent to a large majority of American adults. Worries about liquidity in the mortgage finance system have been building for years. As the pandemic exposes the US
In the absence of federal direction, states and America’s top experts forge the path ahead. 1/23 A guide to the stimulus checks being sent to a large majority of American adults. 2/23 Worries about liquidity in the mortgage finance system have been building for years. 3/23
New York state now has more cases of the coronavirus than any other country in the world. Boris Johnson has left intensive care, but remains under observation. The US unemployment rate is currently 13%, the highest since the Great Depression. A landlord trade organization says 69% of tenants were able
New York state now has more cases of the coronavirus than any other country in the world. 1/27 Boris Johnson has left intensive care, but remains under observation. 2/27 The US unemployment rate is currently 13%, the highest since the Great Depression. 3/27 A landlord trade organization
A coronavirus surge in Singapore raises fears of post-lockdown breakouts, perhaps a glimpse of what the US faces. The Chinese government has been "hugely successful" in convincing China that the US Army brought the coronavirus to Wuhan. Unlike the United States and other countries, New Zealand chose "
A coronavirus surge in Singapore raises fears of post-lockdown breakouts, perhaps a glimpse of what the US will face. 1/25 The Chinese government has been "hugely successful" in convincing China that the US Army brought the coronavirus to Wuhan. 2/25 Unlike the United States and other
Scientists in China say some people who've recovered from COVID-19 are showing low or no antibody levels, which could mean there's potential for reinfection. People crowded into China's parks and public spaces over the weekend after quarantine regulations were lifted. The death toll in
Scientists in China say some people who've recovered from COVID-19 are showing low or no antibody levels, which could mean there's potential for reinfection. 1/25 People crowded into China's parks and public spaces over the weekend after quarantine regulations were lifted. 2/25
China reports no Covid-19 deaths for the first time since January. In Italy, a feeling grows that the worst has passed. Meanwhile, a state of emergency settles in Japan. The UK’s Boris Johnson spent the night in intensive care receiving oxygen support. Ireland’s prime minister, a physician before
China reports no Covid-19 deaths for the first time since January. In Italy, a feeling grows that the worst has passed. Meanwhile, a state of emergency settles in Japan. 1/21 The UK’s Boris Johnson spent the night in intensive care receiving oxygen support. 2/21 Ireland’s prime
Yesterday, Dr. Anthony Fauci prepared Americans: "We've got to get through this week that's coming up, because it is going to be a bad week." "If things collapse, and cases start to go up substantially, then you need to go back to the
Yesterday, Dr. Anthony Fauci prepared Americans: "We've got to get through this week that's coming up, because it is going to be a bad week." 1/22 "If things collapse, and cases start to go up substantially, then you need to go back
3M responds to Trump's order that the company should stop exporting N95 respirators to Canada and Latin America: "There are...significant humanitarian implications." Along with pledging to send 1,000 ventilators, China “shipped 12 million gloves, 130,000 N95 masks, 1.7 million surgical masks, 50,
3M responds to Trump's order that the company should stop exporting N95 respirators to Canada and Latin America: "There are...significant humanitarian implications." 1/29 Along with pledging to send 1,000 ventilators, China "shipped 12 million gloves, 130,000 N95 masks, 1.7 million
The White House invokes the Defense Production Act for ventilator manufacturing. Google will start releasing user location data in 131 countries, “aggregated and anonymized,” to assess the effectiveness of social distancing rules. The Earth is actually moving less, thanks to the coronavirus. Related/unrelated: Mars may be made of “mashed-up
The White House invokes the Defense Production Act for ventilator manufacturing. 1/21 Google will start releasing user location data in 131 countries, “aggregated and anonymized,” to assess the effectiveness of social distancing rules. 2/21 The Earth is moving less, thanks to the coronavirus. 3/21 Unrelated: Mars may
In a report, US intelligence concludes China intentionally underreported its COVID-19 cases and deaths. The number of people filing for unemployment benefits in the US reaches a new high, with an additional 6.6 million claims this week—bringing the total to around 10 million over the past two weeks.
In a report, US intelligence concludes China intentionally underreported its COVID-19 cases and deaths. 1/21 The number of people filing for unemployment benefits in the US reaches a new high, with an additional 6.6 million claims this week—bringing the total to around 10 million over the past
The last thing America needs right now is partisan squabbling. “But when we’re back on our feet, the country needs to know what went wrong.” On pretense of pandemic, Hungary's Orban is granted sweeping new powers, becoming the dictator of his dreams. Turkmenistan bans the word “coronavirus.
The last thing America needs right now is partisan squabbling. “But when we’re back on our feet, the country needs to know what went wrong.” 1/23 On pretense of pandemic, Hungary's Orban is granted sweeping new powers, becoming the dictator of his dreams. 2/23 Turkmenistan
"12 million gloves, 130,000 N95 masks, 1.7 million surgical masks." America is massively airlifting in medical supplies. Here are some pictures of field hospitals treating patients. John Krasinski, best known for The Office, offers good news from around the world. Why the government should pay people
"12 million gloves, 130,000 N95 masks, 1.7 million surgical masks." America is massively airlifting in medical supplies. 1/24 Here are some pictures of field hospitals treating patients. 2/24 John Krasinski, best known for The Office, offers good news from around the world. 3/24
With businesses closed, streets quiet and neighborhood walks becoming a national pastime, it’s a great time to get into bird-watching. 1/17 From bats to humans, how a coronavirus evolves. 2/17 Researchers in New York City begin collecting blood from COVID-19 survivors, with the hope that their immunity
With businesses closed, streets quiet and neighborhood walks becoming a national pastime, it’s a great time to get into bird-watching. From bats to humans, how a coronavirus evolves. Researchers in New York City begin collecting blood from COVID-19 survivors, with the hope that their immunity can be shared with
The White House orders General Motors to manufacture ventilators to help handle the surge of coronavirus patients. The $2 trillion relief package passed by Congress is meant to flush the economy with cash, but much of the money will take weeks to arrive. The governor of Alabama won’t issue
The White House orders General Motors to manufacture ventilators to help handle the surge of coronavirus patients. 1/22 The $2 trillion relief package passed by Congress is meant to flush the economy with cash, but much of the money will take weeks to arrive. 2/22 The governor of
The United States overtakes China to have the highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the world. China will no longer accept most foreign citizens into the country. In Nepal, hundreds of trekkers are stranded on high-altitude mountain trails. Related/unrelated: Virtual reconstructions of Europe’s fortified past. Smartphone data
The United States overtakes China to have the highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the world. 1/20 China will no longer accept most foreign citizens into the country. In Nepal, hundreds of trekkers are stranded on high-altitude mountain trails. 2/20 See also: Virtual reconstructions of Europe’s
"We will survive. This is a time to overprotect but not overreact." That discomfort we’re all feeling just might be grief. A chart about St. Louis's response to the 1918 flu pandemic shows how ending social distancing now will only make things worse. Thanks to
"We will survive. This is a time to overprotect but not overreact." That discomfort we’re all feeling just might be grief. 1/20 A chart about St. Louis's response to the 1918 flu pandemic shows how ending social distancing now will only make things worse.
Nobel-winning economist Paul Romer: If we screen the public on a weekly basis and boost protective equipment, we can save the economy. One Harvard economist’s proposal for social insurance: monthly payments that last the entire pandemic. The White House and Senate lawmakers reached a $2-trillion stimulus deal. The World
Nobel-winning economist Paul Romer: If we screen the public on a weekly basis and boost protective equipment, we can save the economy. 1/21 One Harvard economist’s proposal for social insurance: monthly payments that last the entire pandemic. 2/21 The White House and Senate lawmakers reached a $2-trillion
Authorities are planning to lift the mass quarantine on Wuhan, where the global coronavirus outbreak began. Meanwhile, the UK becomes the latest country to go into lockdown. Sweden is trying a “laissez-faire” model. Trump says he may soon push businesses to reopen, defying the advice of coronavirus experts. A man
Authorities are planning to lift the mass quarantine on Wuhan, where the global coronavirus outbreak began. 1/20 The UK becomes the latest country to go into lockdown. Meanwhile, Sweden continues its “laissez-faire” model. 2/20 Trump says he may soon push businesses to reopen, defying the advice of coronavirus
In the absence of meaningful national leadership, the public’s response to the coronavirus “will stand as a remarkable moment of national mobilization.” Regarding leadership: Mr. Trump is no stranger to crisis. He has spent a lifetime grappling with bankruptcy, fending off creditors, evading tax collectors, defending lawsuits, deflecting regulators,
The latest updates on the coronavirus from Pro Publica, Slate, and Politico. 1/19 In the absence of meaningful national leadership, the public’s response to the coronavirus “will stand as a remarkable moment of national mobilization.” 2/19 Regarding leadership: "Mr. Trump is no stranger to crisis. He
Related: An excellent round-up of links and news (COVID and other) from the past week in Africa. A nice comic by Laura Gao, "The Wuhan I Know," about her hometown. This is how we can beat the coronavirus: “If we screen everyone, and do so regularly, we can
The latest updates on the coronavirus from the Hong Kong Free Press, the Sydney Morning Herald, and African Arguments. 1/25 Related: An excellent round-up of links and news (COVID and other) from the past week in Africa. 2/25 A nice comic by Laura Gao, "The Wuhan I
California governor says citizens should stay at home indefinitely. Los Angeles goes one step further and requires its citizens to stay home. Let’s strive for physical rather than social distancing; social isolation has the equivalent adverse impact on physical health to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. See also: An
The latest updates on the coronavirus from Reuters, the Associated Press, Al Jazeera. 1/18 California's governor says citizens should stay at home indefinitely. Los Angeles goes one step further and orders its citizens to stay home. 2/18 Why to strive for physical rather than social distancing:
The latest updates on the coronavirus from the Guardian, the Boston Globe, Buzzfeed News. A ray of hope: For the first time since the pandemic began, China announces no new locally transmitted infections. Financial columnist Andrew Ross Sorkin spent the week talking to people behind other bailouts and came up
The latest updates on the coronavirus from the Guardian, the Boston Globe, Buzzfeed News. 1/22 A ray of hope: For the first time since the pandemic began, China announces no new locally transmitted infections. 2/22 Financial columnist Andrew Ross Sorkin spent the week talking to people behind other
For news round-ups on the coronavirus, try the New York Times, CNN, Washington Post, or the BBC. We also like updates from Andy Slavitt. Internet providers such as AT&T and Verizon are on high alert for dramatic changes in home internet consumption. Scientists warn we may need to
For news round-ups on the coronavirus, try the New York Times, CNN, Washington Post, or the BBC. We also like updates from Andy Slavitt. 1/18 Internet providers such as AT&T and Verizon are on high alert for dramatic changes in home internet consumption. 2/18 Scientists warn
Olympic Games organizers meet via teleconference today to discuss the virus’s impact on the 2020 Tokyo Games. How to play tennis in the time of cholera. Norway’s leader holds a press conference just for children to reassure them. Also: A nice example of a woman calmly talking her
Olympic Games organizers meet via teleconference today to discuss the coronavirus’s impact on the 2020 Tokyo Games. 1/22 How to play tennis in a time of cholera. 2/22 Norway’s leader holds a press conference just for children to reassure them. Also: A nice example of a
There are now more reported cases of the coronavirus outside China than in, for the first time since the outbreak began in December. Los Angeles and New York shutter entertainment venues and bars and limit restaurants to take-out and delivery. The US central bank said it is targeting a federal
Correction: An earlier version of this newsletter suggested we're switching to full-time Covid coverage. Not so! With all that's happening, we're simply switching to six days of newsletters, not five—to give you all the news and not-news we're known for. Today&
For the foreseeable future, this newsletter will run six days a week and emphasize the best stories we find around the coronavirus outbreak. Feel free to tip us to great stories, and share with others if you like! There are now more reported cases of the coronavirus outside than inside
The House passes a coronavirus economic relief package that includes paid sick leave, unemployment insurance, free testing, and money for food stamps. As to what’s next in the Senate: More legislating. Covid-19 resources: statistics updated live; envelope calculations by a virus expert; Johns Hopkins situation reports; some excellent coverage
The House passes a coronavirus economic relief package that includes paid sick leave, unemployment insurance, free testing, and money for food stamps. 1/27 As to what’s next in the Senate: More legislating. 2/27 Some Covid-19 resources: Statistics updated live; envelope calculations by a virus expert; Johns Hopkins
“No one alive has ever experienced what the next two months will be like around the world, but here we are.” In South Korea, the number of new cases is less than the number of patients who recovered. Italy now has over 10,000 cases of the coronavirus, too many
Correction: The story we included in an earlier edition of this newsletter about the actor Tom Hanks was a spoof. (D'oh!) This is no time for misinformation, and we'll do better over the coming days to scrutinize our links. Our apologies.—ed. “No one alive has
“No one alive has ever experienced what the next two months will be like around the world, but here we are.” 1/24 In South Korea, the number of new cases now is less than the number of patients who recovered. 2/24 Italy has over 10,000 cases of
The coronavirus is now officially a pandemic. President Trump orders a month-long travel ban to the US from Europe. Americans snap to attention as big events get cancelled. Congress's in-house doctor tells Capitol Hill staffers that he expects 70-150 million people in the US to contract Covid-19. This
The coronavirus is now officially a pandemic. President Trump orders a month-long travel ban to the US from Europe. Americans snap to attention as big events get cancelled. 1/25 Congress's in-house doctor tells Capitol Hill staffers that he expects 70-150 million people in the US to contract
Biden closes in on the Democratic nomination with primary wins in Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi and Idaho. Coronavirus cases pass 115,000 worldwide, including at least 1,000 in the US. "In most cases, symptoms are mild, and young people are at very low risk." Reasons to be reassured
Biden closes in on the Democratic nomination with primary wins in Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi and Idaho. 1/19 Coronavirus cases pass 115,000 worldwide, including at least 1,000 in the US. 2/19 "In most cases, symptoms are mild, and young people are at very low risk."
Last week Trump told aides he's afraid journalists will try to purposefully contract coronavirus to give it to him on Air Force One. “None of us want to be Chicken Little, but there is too much consistent data to not begin to rattle the cage pretty loudly.” Life
Last week Trump told aides he's afraid that journalists will try to purposefully contract coronavirus to give it to him on Air Force One. 1/20 “None of us want to be Chicken Little, but there is too much consistent data to not begin to rattle the cage
China’s cases of Covid-19 are finally declining, which suggests the virus may have peaked there (for now). An editor at CNBC Business News suggests giving every American the coronavirus—meaning about 11 million deaths—to calm the markets. What the fight against Ebola can teach us about beating Covid-19.
China’s cases of Covid-19 are finally declining, which suggests the virus may have peaked there (for now). 1/22 An editor at CNBC Business News suggests giving every American the coronavirus—meaning about 11 million deaths—to calm the markets. 2/22 What the fight against Ebola can teach
Donald Trump has a plan for nothing. So why did voters reject the candidate who has a plan for everything? Martina Navratilova: Warren had a plan for everything with one major thing missing—the “right” sex. “I was told when I first got into this, there are two lanes,” Warren
Donald Trump has a plan for nothing. So why did voters reject the candidate who has a plan for everything? 1/20 “I was told when I first got into this, there are two lanes,” Warren said. “I thought it was possible that wasn’t the case, and there was
Just days after the US and Taliban announce a peace deal, “Afghanistan is once more embroiled in deadly violence.” 1/19 Iran has fuel for a bomb again, though evidence suggests it’s mainly to pressure Trump and Europe. 2/19 California declares a coronavirus state of emergency. 3/19
In the biggest day of voting in the primary season, Joe Biden posts victories in nine states, maybe 10, in a rout that has no comparison in the history of party primaries. Mike Bloomberg, who spent $500 million in ads, only won in American Samoa. Alexandra Petri: “I just remembered
In the biggest day of voting in the primary season, Joe Biden posts victories in nine states, maybe 10, in a rout that has no comparison in the history of party primaries. 1/22 Mike Bloomberg, who spent $500 million in advertising, only won in American Samoa. 2/22 Alexandra
Four more people in the Seattle area have died after contracting the coronavirus, bringing the total of US deaths associated with COVID-19 to six. A World Health Organization expert explains why China's COVID-19 cases are now declining: "The faster you can find the cases, isolate the cases,
Four more people in the Seattle area have died after contracting the coronavirus, bringing the total of US deaths associated with COVID-19 to six. 1/26 A World Health Organization expert explains why China's COVID-19 cases are now declining: "The faster you can find the cases, isolate
Around 84,000 people in at least 56 countries have now been infected with the coronavirus, and about 2,900 have died, suggesting a global pandemic is inevitable. Whether or not the global economy tips into a recession depends on the coronavirus’s spread, and how governments manage the outbreak.
Around 84,000 people in at least 56 countries have now been infected with the coronavirus, and about 2,900 have died, suggesting a global pandemic is inevitable. 1/22 Whether or not the global economy tips into a recession depends on the coronavirus’s spread, and how governments manage
A whistleblower says the Dept. of Health and Human Services sent more than a dozen workers—without protective gear or proper training—to receive American evacuees from Wuhan. "It’s clear that the virus is spreading undetected in the United States—but how broadly it’s spreading is an
A whistleblower says the Dept. of Health and Human Services sent more than a dozen workers—without protective gear or proper training—to receive American evacuees from Wuhan. 1/20 "It's clear that the virus is spreading undetected in the United States—but how broadly it'
US health authorities say they’ve identified the first case of coronavirus that doesn’t have known ties to an existing outbreak. Saudi Arabia halts travel to the holiest sites in Islam over coronavirus fears just months ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Amid the coronavirus lockdown, Chinese social media
US health authorities say they’ve identified the first case of coronavirus that doesn’t have known ties to an existing outbreak. 1/22 Saudi Arabia halts travel to the holiest sites in Islam just months ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. 2/22 Amid the Covid-19 lockdown, Chinese social
"It’s not a question of if this will happen but when this will happen and how many people in this country will have severe illnesses." The CDC expects the COVID-19 coronavirus to spread in the US and warns that disruptions to daily life could be “severe.” "
"It's not a question of if this will happen but when this will happen and how many people in this country will have severe illnesses." The CDC expects the COVID-19 coronavirus to spread in the US and warns that disruptions to daily life could be "
After five days of deliberation, a jury in New York finds Harvey Weinstein guilty of rape and a felony sex crime. Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, who first broke the story, explain what the jurors were asked to do and what it means that they did it. Photographs of the
After five days of deliberation, a jury in New York finds Harvey Weinstein guilty of rape and a felony sex crime. 1/22 Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, who first broke the Weinstein story, explain what the jurors were asked to do and what it means that they did it.
In addition to trying to help Trump, a new report says Moscow has been attempting to mess with the Democratic primaries to aid Senator Bernie Sanders. Trump appears more concerned about the politics of Russian meddling than the ongoing attack itself. The Nevada caucuses, occurring today, explained. Twitter will suspend
In addition to trying to help President Trump, a new report says Moscow has been attempting to mess with the Democratic primaries to aid Senator Sanders. 1/19 Trump appears more concerned with the politics of Russian meddling than the ongoing attack itself. 2/19 The Nevada caucuses, occurring today,
A hundred new coronavirus cases are reported in South Korea, bringing the country’s total to 204. According to a Chinese expert, patients who think they’re fully recovered may still be infectious. Last week, intelligence officials warned House lawmakers that Russia is meddling to re-elect Trump. Which explains why
A hundred new coronavirus cases are reported in South Korea, bringing the country’s total to 204. According to a Chinese expert, patients who think they’re fully recovered may still be infectious. 1/20 Last week, intelligence officials warned House lawmakers that Russia is meddling to re-elect Trump... 2/
Roger Stone is currently being sentenced. Despite Trump's complaints, the initial recommendation of seven to nine years "has not been withdrawn." Related: Trump's interference in the Stone case may be unwise, but the Constitution assigns the president the power to do exactly this. What
Roger Stone is currently being sentenced. Despite Trump's complaints, the initial recommendation of seven to nine years "has not been withdrawn." 1/20 Related: Trump's interference in the Stone case may be unwise, but the Constitution assigns the president the power to do exactly
Democracies die in two ways: gradually, then suddenly. If Trump represents top-down oligarchy, Bloomberg is the bottom-up version. Want to eat and drink well for free? Attend a Bloomberg event. John Oliver kicks off the latest season of his talk show by analyzing the pros and cons—and siding with
Democracies die in two ways: gradually, then suddenly. If Donald Trump represents top-down oligarchy, Mike Bloomberg is the bottom-up version. 1/20 Want to eat and drink well for free? Attend a Bloomberg event. 2/20 John Oliver kicks off the latest season of his talk show by analyzing the
White House report on the drone strike that killed Soleimani contradicts the original justification the administration provided. A national association of federal judges called an emergency meeting over concerns about Trump and DoJ officials' intervention in the Roger Stone case. Bloomberg qualifies for the next Democratic debate, thanks to
We apologize for the late delivery of today's newsletter. We should be back to our normal schedule tomorrow. The White House report on the drone strike that killed Soleimani contradicts the original justification the administration provided. 1/19 A national association of federal judges called an emergency meeting
Attorney General Barr boosts worries of political interference in the Justice Department by installing an outside prosecutor to reexamine the case against former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn. Trump ignores Barr’s request to stop tweeting about the DOJ. Before he died, Daniel arap Moi was a disgraced former dictator.
Attorney General Barr boosts worries of political interference in the Justice Dept. by installing an outside prosecutor to reexamine the case against former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn. 1/21 Trump ignores Barr’s request to stop tweeting about the DOJ. 2/21 Before he died, Daniel arap Moi was
The US House voted to remove the 1982 deadline on the Equal Rights Amendment. During the debate, Republicans against the ERA argued it would mean abortion couldn't be restricted. According to newly available data, the effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill were "larger than generally publicized.
The US House voted to remove the 1982 deadline on the Equal Rights Amendment. During the debate, Republicans against the ERA argued it would mean abortion couldn't be restricted. 1/18 According to newly available data, the effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill were "larger than
“This year, the race looks like no other Democratic primary in modern history, an increasingly muddled mix of ideologies, backgrounds and theories on what has unfolded." To win the primary, Sanders needs to broaden his appeal. He might start with his “normie” contemporaries. Bloomberg receives three endorsements from the
“This year, the race looks like no other Democratic primary in modern history, an increasingly muddled mix of ideologies, backgrounds and theories on what has unfolded." 1/19 To win the primary, Sanders needs to broaden his appeal. He might start with his “normie” contemporaries. 2/19 Bloomberg receives
Six takeaways from the New Hampshire primary, which Bernie Sanders won, trailed closely by Buttigieg and Klobuchar. See also: Five takeaways, 10 takeaways, four takeaways, a bunch of takeaways... The opinions: Mainstream Democrats should not be afraid of Sanders, vs. mainstream Democrats should pray for Bloomberg. Universal basic income candidate
Six takeaways from the New Hampshire primary, which Bernie Sanders won, trailed closely by Buttigieg and Klobuchar. 1/17 See also: Five takeaways, 10 takeaways, four takeaways, a bunch of takeaways... 2/17 The opinions: Mainstream Democrats should not be afraid of Sanders, vs. mainstream Democrats should pray for Bloomberg.
The daily death toll from coronavirus tops 100 for the first time, pushing the total above 1,000. "To our delight, Princess gave us free internet and added many new movies." A couple blogs while quarantined on a cruise ship in Japan. As New Hampshire votes in the
The daily death toll from coronavirus tops 100 for the first time, pushing the total above 1,000. The disease now also has a name: "COVID-19." 1/22 "To our delight, Princess gave us free internet and added many new movies." A couple blogs while quarantined
A new political theory says there is no swing voter, only pro- and anti-Trumpers. For either side to win, fear of America’s future must be stoked. ICYMI: Internet trolls and Trump supporters clogged Iowa caucus hotlines for reporting results. Going into Tuesday’s primary, the Iowa debacle is shaking
A new political theory says there is no swing voter, only pro- and anti-Trumpers. For either side to win, fear of America’s future must be stoked. 1/22 ICYMI: Internet trolls and Trump supporters clogged Iowa caucus hotlines for reporting results. 2/22 Going into Tuesday’s primary, the
To curtail the spread of coronavirus in China—where infections are doubling every four days—officials have ordered house-to-house searches in Wuhan, moving the sick to massive quarantine centers. Chinese authorities appear to be trying to censor the news that the doctor who alerted the medical community about the start
To curtail the spread of coronavirus in China—where infections are doubling every four days—officials have ordered house-to-house searches in Wuhan, moving the sick to massive quarantine centers. 1/20 Chinese authorities appear to be trying to censor the news that the doctor who alerted the medical community about
Trump’s acquittal gives him a moment of triumph and a shot of momentum, but not the finality he craves. Trump quickly makes a mockery of comments by Republican senators Collins, Alexander, and Portman, who thought he might behave better going forward. Related/unrelated: New paintings in Luke Pelletier'
Trump’s acquittal gives him a moment of triumph and a shot of momentum, but not the finality he craves. 1/24 Trump quickly makes a mockery of comments by Republican senators Collins, Alexander, and Portman, who thought he might behave better going forward. 2/24 Related/unrelated: New paintings
Partial results from the Iowa caucuses—the outcome of which is now unlikely to change—show Buttigieg and Sanders in the lead, followed by Warren, Biden, Klobuchar, and Yang. Today, senators will almost certainly vote to acquit Trump and bring an end to the impeachment trial. According to Gallup, Trump&
Partial results from the Iowa caucuses—the outcome of which is now unlikely to change—show Buttigieg and Sanders in the lead, followed by Warren, Biden, Klobuchar, and Yang. 1/15 Today, senators will almost certainly vote to acquit Trump and bring an end to the impeachment trial. 2/15
The Iowa Democratic Party says a "coding issue" in its reporting app is to blame for the delay in last night's presidential caucus results, but says the data recorded by the app is accurate. With no actual outcome in place in Iowa, each of the Democratic
The Iowa Democratic Party blames a "coding issue" in its reporting app for the delay in last night's presidential caucus results, but says the data recorded by the app is accurate. 1/17 With no actual outcome in place in Iowa, each of the Democratic candidates
By not wanting to hear witnesses, Lamar Alexander has done us all a favor: the trial that wasn’t really a trial will soon be over, “and we will no longer have to listen to it.” Republicans feel trapped by Trump in Washington and by his “cult” of supporters back
By not wanting to hear witnesses, Lamar Alexander has done us all a favor: the trial that wasn’t really a trial will soon be over, “and we will no longer have to listen to it.” 1/25 Republican lawmakers feel trapped by Trump in Washington and by his “cult”
Republican senators appear likely to vote down a motion to call witnesses, which likely means the end of the impeachment trial. As of midnight in Brussels, Britain will no longer part part of the EU. Here's what happens next in trade and other negotiations. Acknowledging that coronavirus poses
Republican senators appear likely to vote down a motion to call witnesses, which likely means the end of the impeachment trial. 1/18 As of midnight in Brussels, Britain will no longer part part of the EU. Here's what happens next in trade and other negotiations. 2/18
The World Health Organization meets again to consider whether coronavirus—170 dead, over 7,000 infected—is a global health emergency. Related: Questions about the virus that scientists are struggling to answer. Infectious disease mortality rates were declining long before vaccines or antibiotics, thanks to cleaning up the environment. Hundreds
The World Health Organization meets again to consider whether coronavirus—170 dead, 7,000 infected—is a global health emergency. 1/26 Related: Questions about the virus that scientists are struggling to answer. 2/26 Infectious disease mortality rates were declining long before vaccines or antibiotics, thanks to cleaning up
McConnell says he doesn't have the votes to block witnesses at the impeachment trial. "By 2016, the nation’s political map corresponded neatly to the distribution of prosperity." Explaining the GOP's identity shift. As panic over coronavirus spreads, it's a good time
McConnell says he doesn't have the votes to block witnesses at the impeachment trial. 1/20 "By 2016, the nation's political map corresponded neatly to the distribution of prosperity." Explaining the GOP's identity shift. 2/20 As panic over coronavirus spreads, it&
The White House works to contain potential damage from allegations in John Bolton’s forthcoming book. How long can Republicans really play dumb about Bolton? Here’s a view we don’t endorse, but do appreciate: Your vote doesn’t matter, also you’re likely to harm others. The AP
The White House works to contain potential damage from allegations in John Bolton’s forthcoming book. 1/25 How long can Republicans really play dumb about Bolton? 2/25 Here’s a view we don’t endorse, but do appreciate: Your vote doesn’t matter, also you’re likely to
Please note that we’ll be off next week, and the newsletter will return on Jan. 28. See you then! How far has US election security come since 2016? It's improved, but so have the hackers. "Sure, that might lead to a dystopian future or something, but
Please note that we'll be off next week, and the newsletter will return on Jan. 28. See you then! How far has US election security come since 2016? It's improved, but so have the hackers. 1/16 "Sure, that might lead to a dystopian future
Impeachment proceedings officially started yesterday in the Senate, with the trial set to begin next week. The Government Accountability Office has concluded that the White House broke the law when it withheld aid to Ukraine. This week, Virginia became the final state necessary to ratify the ERA, though legal battles
Impeachment proceedings officially started yesterday in the Senate, with the trial set to begin next week. 1/19 The Government Accountability Office has concluded that the White House broke the law when it withheld aid to Ukraine. 2/19 This week, Virginia became the final state necessary to ratify the
New material shows Trump’s team offering yet another quid pro quo in Ukraine, as well as surveilling the US ambassador there. Lessons from a former Obama speechwriter who recently conducted focus groups in Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Miami. What political reporters forget: Twitter stories and micro-scandals don't
New material shows Trump’s team offering yet another quid pro quo in Ukraine, as well as surveilling the US ambassador there. 1/21 Lessons from a former Obama speechwriter who recently conducted focus groups in Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Miami. 2/21 What political reporters forget: Twitter stories and
Takeaways from the final Democratic debate before voting begins in the Iowa caucuses. The New York Public Library waited 25 years to carry Goodnight Moon, finding the book "unbearably sentimental." Related: The New York Public Library’s 10 most checked-out books of all time. A duo has pled
Takeaways from the final Democratic debate before voting begins in the Iowa caucuses. 1/17 The New York Public Library waited 25 years to carry Goodnight Moon, finding the book "unbearably sentimental." 2/17 Related: The New York Public Library's 10 most checked-out books of all
The US delists China as a currency manipulator. China commits to spend $200 billion on US agricultural products. Democrats hold their final debate before Iowa—a state that remains up for grabs. Across 32 countries, 64% of people say they do not have confidence in Trump to do the right
The US delists China as a currency manipulator. China commits to spend $200 billion on US agricultural products. 1/20 Evan Osnos interviews a range of key figures to predict the future of the United States’ contest with China. 2/20 Demand in China for ginseng is so great, illicit
Iran says its military unintentionally shot down the Ukrainian airline, blaming "human error" for the incident. Three weeks ahead of Caucus Day in Iowa, a new poll shows Sanders is now leading the Democratic presidential contenders. Pelosi announces that articles of impeachment against Trump will be sent to
Iran says its military unintentionally shot down the Ukrainian airline, blaming "human error" for the incident. 1/18 Three weeks ahead of Caucus Day in Iowa, a new poll shows Sanders is now leading the Democratic presidential contenders. 2/18 Pelosi announces that articles of impeachment against Trump
That Ukraine International Airlines flight in Tehran appears to have been downed by an Iranian missile, possibly fired by mistake. Iran’s civil aviation chief disagrees. After severe earthquakes recently damaged Puerto Rico, hundreds of thousands are without water. Australians prepare for another weekend of fire. In Island Park, Idaho,
That Ukraine International Airlines flight in Tehran appears to have been downed by an Iranian missile, possibly fired by mistake. Iran’s civil aviation chief disagrees. 1/21 After severe earthquakes damage Puerto Rico, hundreds of thousands are without water. 2/21 Australians prepare for another weekend of fire. 3/
Pelosi says the House will vote to limit Trump's war powers—though any legislation isn't likely to pass the Senate. "You may be giving up your children, but by advocating for war, I’m risking my reputation." The case for war, by someone whose
Pelosi says the House will vote to limit Trump's war powers—though any legislation isn't likely to pass the Senate. 1/20 "You may be giving up your children, but by advocating for war, I'm risking my reputation." The case for war,
Iran launches missile attacks against Iraqi bases hosting US troops, though in a manner to avoid casualties. Iraq was warned ahead of time, “The US military was anticipating an attack and personnel had taken cover. Iran can claim it took revenge. Feels more like an escalation to deescalate.” A Ukrainian
Iran launches missile attacks against Iraqi bases hosting US troops, though in a manner to avoid casualties. Iraq was warned ahead of time. 1/19 “The US military was anticipating an attack and personnel had taken cover. Iran can claim it took revenge. Feels more like an escalation to deescalate.
Iran's supreme leader: Any retaliation against American interests for the death of Soleimani must be direct and proportional, and carried out by Iranian forces, rather than proxies. The Pentagon says the letter claiming the US would withdraw from Iraq was "poorly worded," and that there are
Iran's supreme leader: Any retaliation against American interests for the death of Soleimani must be direct and proportional, and carried out by Iranian forces, rather than proxies. 1/20 The Pentagon says the letter claiming the US would withdraw from Iraq was "poorly worded," and that
Trump insisted that Obama would start a war with Iran to get re-elected. Will fighting a war now be an extension of his domestic politics? Two US presidents before Trump rejected plans to kill Soleimani, fearing the risks of wider war. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promises “harsh retaliation” for the assassination
Trump insisted that Obama would start a war with Iran to get re-elected. Will fighting a war now be an extension of his domestic politics? 1/16 Two US presidents before Trump rejected plans to kill Gen. Soleimani, fearing the risks of wider war. 2/16 Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promises
Amid escalating US-Iran tensions, Trump ordered an airstrike in Baghdad that killed Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the head of Iran’s elite Quds force. "The targeted strike, and any retaliation by Iran, could ignite a conflict that engulfs the whole region, endangering US troops in Iraq, Syria, and beyond."
Amid escalating US-Iran tensions, Trump ordered an airstrike in Baghdad that killed Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite Quds force. 1/22 "The targeted strike, and any retaliation by Iran, could ignite a conflict that engulfs the whole region, endangering US troops in Iraq, Syria,
Following US airstrikes in Iraq and Syria against Iran-backed militias, hundreds of protestors storm the US embassy in Baghdad, chanting "Death to America" and slogans in support of the militias. See also: Photos from the embassy attack. The Chinese scientist who created the first gene-edited babies has been
Following US airstrikes in Iraq and Syria against Iran-backed militias, hundreds of protestors storm the US embassy in Baghdad, chanting "Death to America" and slogans in support of the militias. 1/19 See also: Photos from the embassy attack. 2/19 The Chinese scientist who created the first
Ninety-three albums that sounded like this year.
We asked some of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2019, and what were the least? This week, New York City's transit quagmire made it cheaper for Uber riders to take a helicopter than a car. Graphing 2019's brief,
We asked some of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2019, and what were the least? 1/17 This week, New York City's transit quagmire made it cheaper for Uber riders to take a helicopter than a car. 2/17 Graphing
We asked some of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2019, and what were the least?
A round-up of six of the most high-impact, cost-effective, evidence-based organizations fighting the climate crisis. In case you want to feel better about flying this year: certified carbon offsets from Green-e. See also: How to buy carbon offsets, and a calculator for tallying your offsets for the year. Oil Change
TMN will be offline through the holidays, but the newsletter will return on Friday, Dec. 27. Until then, our annual round-up of some of the places we like to give money. A round-up of six of the most high-impact, cost-effective, evidence-based organizations fighting the climate crisis. 1/17 In case
Trump signs two spending packages totaling $1.4 trillion that include funding for the federal government, the border wall, and Space Force. Boris Johnson's Brexit bill passes a House of Commons vote, setting up the UK for a Jan. 31 departure from the EU. "The United States
Trump signs two spending packages totaling $1.4 trillion that include funding for the federal government, the border wall, and Space Force. 1/22 Boris Johnson's Brexit bill passes a House of Commons vote, setting up the UK for a Jan. 31 departure from the EU. 2/22
Pelosi refuses to send the articles of impeachment to the Senate until more information is released about how the trial will be conducted. Christianity Today calls for Trump's removal from office, deeming the president's Ukraine actions "profoundly immoral," and encouraging evangelicals to abandon their
Pelosi refuses to send the articles of impeachment to the Senate until more information is released about how the trial will be conducted. 1/16 Christianity Today calls for Trump's removal from office, deeming the president's Ukraine actions "profoundly immoral," and encouraging evangelicals to
“This will only strengthen him,” a bartender at the president’s hotel said as he prepared another round of cocktails. “Right?” For his conduct toward Ukraine and his refusal to cooperate with an inquiry, Donald Trump is the third president in US history to be impeached. At his annual end-of-year
“This will only strengthen him,” a bartender at the president’s hotel said as he prepared another round of cocktails. “Right?” 1/19 For his conduct toward Ukraine and his refusal to cooperate with an inquiry, Donald Trump is the third president in US history to be impeached. 2/19
What to watch for as the House of Representatives prepares to vote on two articles of impeachment against Donald Trump. Boeing says it will suspend production of its flawed 737 Max jetliner in January. The $50 billion merger of Fiat Chrysler and Peugeot will create the world’s fourth-largest auto
What to watch for as the House of Representatives prepares to vote on two articles of impeachment against Donald Trump. 1/17 Boeing says it will suspend production of its flawed 737 Max jetliner in January. 2/17 The $50 billion merger of Fiat Chrysler and Peugeot will create the
The Supreme Court delivers a victory to homeless advocates and deals a setback to Western cities trying to regulate encampments. A side-by-side comparison, with lots of video, of a homeless camp in Oakland and one in Mexico City. UN climate negotiations end in disarray amid worries that Donald Trump will
The Supreme Court delivers a victory to homeless advocates and deals a setback to Western cities in the US trying to regulate encampments. 1/22 A side-by-side comparison, with lots of video, of a homeless camp in Oakland and one in Mexico City. 2/22 UN climate negotiations end in
Our shortlist, judges, and Zombie poll for the 2020 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
Next week, the full House of Representatives will vote on the articles of impeachment against Trump. Here is how their votes are shaping up so far. The Supreme Court will hear three cases related to the release of Trump's financial records in March, which could delay a decision
Next week, the full House of Representatives will vote on the articles of impeachment against Trump. Here is how their votes are shaping up so far. 1/22 The Supreme Court will hear three cases related to the release of Trump's financial records in March, which could delay
Boris Johnson’s Conservative party wins a big majority, its largest since Margaret Thatcher’s 1987 landslide. The Scottish National Party wins 48 out of 59 seats north of the border, strengthening the possibility of another independence referendum. A popular tradition in Britain: taking pets to the polls. Johnson now
Boris Johnson’s Conservative party wins a big majority, its largest since Margaret Thatcher’s 1987 landslide. 1/19 The Scottish National Party wins 48 out of 59 seats north of the border, strengthening the possibility of another independence referendum. 2/19 A popular tradition in Britain: taking pets to
Jersey City officials say the shootings at a Jewish kosher deli on Tuesday were a "targeted attack." Trump signs an executive order prohibiting federal funding for colleges and universities that allow anti-Semitism. Opponents of the order say it would "have a chilling effect on free speech and.
Jersey City officials say the shootings at a Jewish kosher deli on Tuesday were a "targeted attack." 1/20 Trump signs an executive order prohibiting federal funding for colleges and universities that allow anti-Semitism. Opponents of the order say it would "have a chilling effect on free
Merriam-Webster’s word of the year for 2019 is "they." Top contenders included "crawdad," "egregious," and "tergiversation." For your final commutes of 2019: every top article from Longreads' weekly "Top 5" emails this year. China imprisoned at least 48
Merriam-Webster’s word of the year for 2019 is "they." Top contenders included "crawdad," "egregious," and "tergiversation." 1/19 For your final commutes or coffee breaks of 2019: every top article from Longreads' weekly "Top 5" emails. 2/19
Democrats will unveil two articles of impeachment against the president this morning, one charging him with abuse of power, the other with obstruction of Congress. Through three presidents, US officials knew they were lying about a war they couldn't win. These are the "Afghanistan Papers." The
Democrats unveil two articles of impeachment against Trump this morning, one charging him with abuse of power, the other with obstruction of Congress. 1/19 Through three presidents, US officials knew they were lying about a war they couldn't win. These are the "Afghanistan Papers." 2/
Justice Ginsburg orders a temporary stay on the release of Trump's financial records, as the Supreme Court considers whether to grant additional time for Trump's legal team to formally appeal. "New York drivers called, texted, or swiped through apps about 22% of the time.” On
Justice Ginsburg orders a temporary stay on the release of Trump's financial records, as the Supreme Court considers whether to grant additional time for Trump's legal team to formally appeal. 1/19 "New York drivers called, texted, or swiped through apps about 22% of the
According to Uber's first-ever safety report, there were 3,045 sexual assaults and nine murders during Uber rides last year. China's version of 23andMe includes longevity, skincare advice, and—though the company isn't clear if it's shared—Uighur ancestry. Pinterest and The
According to Uber's first-ever safety report, there were 3,045 sexual assaults and nine murders during Uber rides last year. 1/17 China's version of 23andMe includes longevity, skincare advice, and—though the company isn't clear if it's shared—Uighur ancestry. 2/
The House of Representatives begins drafting impeachment articles against President Trump. A new Trump rule may lead to hundreds of thousands of people losing their food stamps. Under Trump, the US pays more to NATO and dedicates more troops to Europe. Lisa Page says being insulted by the president isn’
The House of Representatives begins drafting impeachment articles against President Trump. 1/26 A new Trump rule may lead to hundreds of thousands of people losing their food stamps. 2/26 Oddly enough, under Trump the US pays more to NATO and dedicates more troops to Europe. 3/26 Lisa
The House Intelligence Committee voted to send its impeachment report to the House Judiciary Committee, which will determine whether the findings constitute high crimes or misdemeanors. Kamala Harris ends her presidential campaign, citing a lack of financial resources. ICE contracted with McKinsey to find "detention savings opportunities.” Among the
The House Intelligence Committee voted to send its impeachment report to the House Judiciary Committee, which will determine whether the findings constitute high crimes or misdemeanors. 1/23 Kamala Harris ends her presidential campaign, citing a lack of financial resources. 2/23 ICE contracted with McKinsey to find "detention
The Washington Post makes the Mueller Report available as a six-part illustrated series drawn by Jan Feindt. The Democrats prepare their impeachment report while Republicans insist Trump did nothing wrong. What does chaos look like for Democrats this winter? Iowa to Buttigieg, New Hampshire to Warren, South Carolina to Biden,
The Washington Post makes the Mueller Report available as a six-part illustrated series drawn by Jan Feindt. 1/22 The Democrats prepare their impeachment report while Republicans insist Trump did nothing wrong. 2/22 What does chaos look like for Democrats this winter? Iowa to Buttigieg, New Hampshire to Warren,
Akin to a Starr Report, here is a synthesized narrative of the Ukraine affair based on what we know so far. "Effective disinformation is embedded in an account you agree with." How Russian trolls are breaching America's political divide in 2019. Ohio's state legislature
Akin to a Starr Report, here is a synthesized narrative of the Ukraine affair based on what we know so far. 1/23 "Effective disinformation is embedded in an account you agree with." How Russian trolls are breaching America's political divide in 2019. 2/23 Ohio&
A new UN report finds the world further off course than ever from averting climate catastrophe. Mass protests in Iran leave 731 banks and 140 government sites torched. Protesters in Iraq block roads with burning tires. Heavy snows, hurricane-force winds, and a “bomb cyclone” disrupt Thanksgiving travel around the US.
Please note TMN will be offline tomorrow and Friday. This newsletter will resume Saturday morning. A new UN report finds the world further off course than ever from averting climate catastrophe. 1/22 Mass protests in Iran leave 731 banks and 140 government sites torched. Protesters in Iraq block roads
The House Intelligence Committee says it has the evidence necessary to advance the impeachment inquiry to the next phase: determining whether to draw up articles of impeachment. A federal court rules former Trump White House attorney Don McGahn must comply with a House subpoena: "The primary takeaway from the
The House Intelligence Committee says it has the evidence necessary to advance the impeachment inquiry to the next phase: determining whether to draw up articles of impeachment. 1/23 A federal court rules former Trump White House attorney Don McGahn must comply with a House subpoena: "The primary takeaway
Not surprisingly, Trump doubles-down on his debunked Ukraine conspiracy theory, and finds new ways to attack former Ambassador Yovanovitch. Btw, that conspiracy theory Trump loves? It’s a yearslong operation run by the Kremlin. A forthcoming Justice Dept. report is expected to find that political bias did not taint top
Not surprisingly, Donald Trump doubles-down on his debunked Ukraine conspiracy theory, and finds new ways to attack former Ambassador Yovanovitch. 1/20 That conspiracy theory Trump loves? It’s a yearslong operation run by the Kremlin. 2/20 A forthcoming Justice Dept. report is expected to find that political bias
At yesterday's impeachment hearings, Trump's former lead adviser on Russia, Fiona Hill, testified that the GOP's theory that Ukraine—and not Russia—meddled in US elections "is a fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."
At yesterday's impeachment hearings, Trump's former lead adviser on Russia, Fiona Hill, testified that the GOP's theory that Ukraine—and not Russia—meddled in US elections "is a fictional narrative that has been perpetrated and propagated by the Russian security services themselves."
Gordon Sondland, US Ambassador to the European Union, says there was a quid pro quo with Ukraine and “everyone was in the loop.” Fiona Hill, Trump's former Russia aide, plans to warn Republican lawmakers to not push politically driven falsehoods “that so clearly advance Russian interests.” In the
Gordon Sondland, US Ambassador to the European Union, says there was a quid pro quo with Ukraine and “everyone was in the loop.” 1/22 Fiona Hill, Trump's former Russia aide, plans to warn Republican lawmakers to not push politically driven falsehoods “that so clearly advance Russian interests.
In his testimony to Congress today, Ambassador Gordon Sondland confirmed Trump ordered US support to Ukraine be withheld in exchange for investigating Biden and the 2016 election. "Everyone was in the loop." See also: Takeaways from yesterday's impeachment hearings. With Evo's exit, Latin America&
In his testimony to Congress today, Ambassador Gordon Sondland confirmed Trump ordered US support to Ukraine be withheld in exchange for investigating Biden and the 2016 election. "Everyone was in the loop." 1/17 See also: Takeaways from yesterday's impeachment hearings. 2/17 With Evo'
Leaked documents show how China is carrying out the mass detentions of ethnic minorities in the Xinjiang region. Iranian intelligence cables find Tehran deeply embedded in Baghdad's affairs, but struggling to maintain its hegemony. Stories from three journalists travelling through every mainland country in West Africa. A parable
Leaked documents show how China is carrying out the mass detentions of ethnic minorities in the Xinjiang region. 1/17 Iranian intelligence cables find Tehran deeply embedded in Baghdad's affairs, but struggling to maintain its hegemony. 2/17 Stories from three journalists travelling through every mainland country in
In her testimony at yesterday's impeachment hearings, former US ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch described the smear campaign against her by Trump and his allies. Trump attacked Yovanovitch on Twitter during her testimony, amounting to what Schiff called "witness intimidation in real time" and what Fox
In her testimony at yesterday's impeachment hearings, former US ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch described the smear campaign against her by Trump and his allies. 1/22 Trump attacked Yovanovitch on Twitter during her testimony, amounting to what Schiff called "witness intimidation in real time" and
The latest in impeachment news: Giuliani has “insurance,” Pelosi sees “bribery,” and Marie Yovanovitch returns. Giuliani may soon be indicted on campaign finance violations and/or a failure to register as a foreign agent. Can Republicans afford to be pro-immigrant? Only if they make peace with socialized medicine and other
The latest in impeachment news: Giuliani has “insurance,” Pelosi sees “bribery,” and Marie Yovanovitch returns. 1/19 Giuliani may soon be indicted on campaign finance violations and/or a failure to register as a foreign agent. 2/19 Can Republicans afford to be pro-immigrant? Only if they make peace with
Key takeaways from the first day of public impeachment hearings, which included Ambassador Taylor's testimony that a member of his staff overheard Trump ask Sondland about "the investigations." The Washington Post's Jennifer Rubin called that moment in the hearing "a bombshell," and
Key takeaways from the first day of public impeachment hearings, which included Ambassador Taylor's testimony that a member of his staff overheard Trump ask Sondland about "the investigations." 1/25 The Washington Post's Jennifer Rubin called that moment in the hearing "a bombshell,
The House impeachment inquiry into Donald Trump enters its public phase. A guide to who will testify and how the questioning will work. Related: Key people, facts and documents in the inquiry. The Republicans and the Democrats signal how they plan “to present radically different interpretations of Trump’s actions.
The House impeachment inquiry into Donald Trump enters its public phase. A guide to who will testify and how the questioning will work. 1/23 Related: Key people, facts and documents in the inquiry. 2/23 The Republicans and the Democrats signal how they plan to present radically different interpretations
The most excellent, Rooster-worthy books of 2019. Look for our shortlist of competitors next month for the 2020 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
After being removed from office in what many are describing as a coup, former Bolivian president Evo Morales has been granted asylum in Mexico. Six brief notes on how to interpret Latin American coups, from historian of empire Greg Grandin. An American libertarian who moved to Chile drove through a
After being removed from office in what many are describing as a coup, former Bolivian president Evo Morales has been granted asylum in Mexico. 1/21 Six brief notes on how to interpret Latin American coups, from historian of empire Greg Grandin. 2/21 An American libertarian who moved to
After a week of transcripts, a quid pro quo in Ukraine seems locked, if only from Giuliani's hand. Bolton's lawyer says the former National Security Adviser has info that hasn't been disclosed. A New York judge rules that Donald Trump must pay $2 million
After a week of transcripts, a quid pro quo in Ukraine seems locked, if only from Giuliani's hand. Bolton's lawyer says the former National Security Adviser has info that hasn't been disclosed. 1/20 A New York judge rules that Donald Trump must pay
In his testimony to the impeachment inquiry, a senior State Dept. official said Trump "wanted nothing less than President Zelensky to go to a microphone and say investigations, Biden and Clinton." Also at the inquiry, a Pence aide on the Ukraine call testifies she found the conversation unusual
In testimony to the impeachment inquiry, a senior State Dept. official said Trump "wanted nothing less than President Zelensky to go to a microphone and say investigations, Biden, and Clinton." 1/22 Also at the inquiry, a Pence aide on the Ukraine call testifies she found the conversation
In late September, Trump wanted the Attorney General to hold a press conference clearing him of wrongdoing on Ukraine. Barr declined. A good summary: “Impeachment transcripts reveal a consistent, damaging narrative for Trump.” Confirmation of two judges this week will mean Trump has seated a quarter of the 179 federal
In late September, Trump wanted the Attorney General to hold a press conference clearing him of wrongdoing on Ukraine. Barr declined. 1/21 A good summary: “Impeachment transcripts reveal a consistent, damaging narrative for Trump.” 2/21 Confirmation of two judges this week will mean Trump has seated a quarter
This week, the US ambassador to the EU backtracked his impeachment inquiry testimony, acknowledging Trump and Giuliani pushed for a quid pro quo with Ukraine. In last night's elections, Virginia flipped both houses of the General Assembly, and is now on track to become the 38th and final
This week, the US ambassador to the EU backtracked his impeachment inquiry testimony, acknowledging Trump and Giuliani pushed for a quid pro quo with Ukraine. 1/31 In last night's elections, Virginia flipped both houses of the General Assembly, putting it on track to become the 38th and
It’s election day in California, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, with races that may lead to major shifts in political power. Get out, have fun, go vote! Today in impeachment news: One of Giuliani’s Ukrainian-American associates is
It’s election day in California, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, with races that may lead to major shifts in political power. Get out, have fun, go vote! 1/21 Today in impeachment news: One of Giuliani’s Ukrainian-American
Smugglers are sawing through sections of Trump's border wall using relatively inexpensive power tools. Beto O'Rourke ends his presidential campaign, telling supporters he won't run for office next year—and that includes a Senate bid. "People dismiss 15-year-old girls, but they know what’
Smugglers are sawing through sections of Trump's border wall using relatively inexpensive power tools. 1/23 Beto O'Rourke ends his presidential campaign, telling supporters he won't run for office next year—and that includes a Senate bid. 2/23 "People dismiss 15-year-old girls,
The House of Representatives approves its first resolution related to an impeachment inquiry into Donald Trump: an explainer. Another Trump aide confirms that military aid to Ukraine was linked to an investigation of Trump’s political rivals. “We think we’re ready.” Democrats reach the end of closed-door depositions. Trump
The House of Representatives approves its first resolution related to an impeachment inquiry into Donald Trump: an explainer. 1/26 Another Trump aide confirms that military aid to Ukraine was linked to an investigation of Trump’s political rivals. 2/26 “We think we’re ready.” Democrats near the end
After hearing the White House's top Ukraine adviser's concerns about Trump's Ukraine call, the national security legal adviser broke protocol by moving the transcript to a highly classified server. Responding to an invitation to voluntarily testify at the House impeachment inquiry, Bolton's
After hearing the White House's top Ukraine adviser's concerns about Trump's Ukraine call, the national security legal adviser broke protocol by moving the transcript to a highly classified server. 1/29 Responding to an invitation to voluntarily testify at the House impeachment inquiry, Bolton&
Lebanon's Prime Minister Saad Hariri submits his resignation, after nearly two weeks of anti-government protests. Hariri’s ouster was sparked by a proposed tax on the first WhatsApp call users make each day. Officials fear that Turkey-backish militias are killing civilians in US-abandoned areas, using weapons that the
Lebanon's prime minister submits his resignation after nearly two weeks of anti-government protests. 1/22 Hariri’s ouster was sparked by a proposed tax on the first WhatsApp call users make each day. 2/22 Officials fear that Turkey-backish militias are killing civilians in US-abandoned areas, using weapons
"We are taking this step to eliminate any doubt as to whether the Trump Administration may withhold documents, prevent witness testimony, disregard duly authorized subpoenas, or continue obstructing the House of Representatives." The House will vote to formalize its impeachment inquiry. The National Security's Council'
"We are taking this step to eliminate any doubt as to whether the Trump Administration may withhold documents, prevent witness testimony, disregard duly authorized subpoenas, or continue obstructing the House of Representatives." The House will vote to formalize its impeachment inquiry. 1/22 The National Security's
In a victory for the impeachment inquiry, a federal judge ruled the Justice Dept. must supply Mueller's grand jury materials to the House Judiciary Committee. 1/18 The US government's annual budget deficit widened to $984 billion—its largest since 2012 and the first time since
In a victory for the impeachment inquiry, a federal judge ruled the Justice Dept. must supply Mueller's grand jury materials to the House Judiciary Committee. The US government's annual budget deficit widened to $984 billion—its largest since 2012 and the first time since the early
Thousands have been evacuated in Southern California as four separate wildfires burn. The Justice Dept.'s review of the probe into Russian election interference is reportedly now a criminal investigation. "Nothing kills a global political scandal like debate about process, and that’s exactly what Republicans are betting
Thousands have been evacuated in Southern California as four separate wildfires burn. 1/24 The Justice Dept.'s review of the probe into Russian election interference is reportedly now a criminal investigation. 2/24 "Nothing kills a global political scandal like debate about process, and that's
Despite Russia’s “peace plan,” Kurdish forces say a Turkish land offensive has forced thousands to flee. Turkey doesn’t deny it. Trump’s betrayal of Kurdish allies for Russia and Iran worries evangelical supporters. Approval of the impeachment inquiry reaches its highest level, with 55% in favor of possibly
Despite Russia’s “peace plan,” Kurdish forces say a new Turkish land offensive has forced thousands to flee. Turkey doesn’t deny it. 1/22 Trump’s betrayal of Kurdish allies for Russia and Iran worries (some of) his evangelical supporters. 2/22 Approval of the impeachment inquiry reaches its
In a shocking testimony, a top US diplomat has testified that Trump was indeed engaging in a quid pro quo arrangement with Ukraine, holding back military aid in exchange for investigating Democrats and the Biden family. Hong Kong has withdrawn the bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China,
In a shocking testimony, a top US diplomat has testified that Trump was indeed engaging in a quid pro quo arrangement with Ukraine, holding back military aid in exchange for investigating Democrats and the Biden family. 1/20 Hong Kong has withdrawn the bill that would have allowed extraditions to
With nine days to go until Britain's scheduled EU departure, Boris Johnson will try and gain support for his Brexit deal and push it through Parliament. If unsuccessful, Johnson says he'll call for a general election. Trudeau wins reelection in Canada, though without the majority government
With nine days to go until Britain's scheduled EU departure, Boris Johnson will try and gain support for his Brexit deal and push it through Parliament. If unsuccessful, Johnson says he'll call for a general election. 1/24 Trudeau wins reelection in Canada, though without the
In a Saturday session to vote on Boris Johnson's Brexit deal, the UK parliament instead passed an amendment requiring Johnson to write to the EU to request a Brexit delay. 1/16 Chile's president declares a state of emergency after days of violent protests in Santiago
In a Saturday session to vote on Boris Johnson's Brexit deal, the UK parliament instead passed an amendment requiring Johnson to write the EU and request a Brexit delay. 1/16 Chile's president declares a state of emergency after days of violent protests in Santiago and
White House chief of staff Mulvaney says Trump withheld military aid from Ukraine to pressure an investigation of his political rival, “absolutely.” Hours later, “after Mr. Trump told aides to clean up the mess,” Mulvaney denies saying this at all. In a podcast episode, David Sanger from the New York
Due to technical issues, some subscribers didn’t receive yesterday’s newsletter. We apologize. You can still find that issue here. White House chief of staff Mulvaney says Trump withheld military aid from Ukraine to pressure an investigation of his political rival, “absolutely.” 1/23 Hours later, “after Mr. Trump
“Don’t be a tough guy!” The White House leaks a letter that Trump wrote to Erdoğan. It reads like something written by a third-grader. Erdoğan threw the letter in the trash. Related: The musical anatomy of “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish. More from our president: “They’ve got a
“Don’t be a tough guy!” The White House leaks a letter that Trump wrote to Erdoğan. It reads like something written by a third-grader. Erdoğan threw the letter in the trash. 1/21 Related: The musical anatomy of “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish. 2/21 More from our president:
Haiti enters a fifth week of being locked down by protests, with some protesters vowing to paralyze the country until President Moïse steps down. Edwidge Danticat: Protesters in Haiti want Haitian-led solutions. "They want an end to impunity." A report explains the failed promise of USAid in Haiti—
Haiti enters a fifth week of being locked down by protests, with some protesters vowing to paralyze the country until President Moïse steps down. 1/21 Edwidge Danticat: Protesters in Haiti want Haitian-led solutions. "They want an end to impunity." 2/21 A report explains the failed promise
Russia says its units are patrolling between Turkish and Syrian forces following Trump’s pullout of US troops. An investigation by the New York Times finds Russia has repeatedly bombed hospitals in Syria “to crush the last pockets of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad.” Kurdish forces hold out in a
Russia says its units are patrolling between Turkish and Syrian forces following Trump’s pullout of US troops. 1/18 An investigation by the New York Times finds Russia has repeatedly bombed hospitals in Syria “to crush the last pockets of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad.” 2/18 Kurdish forces
The former ambassador to Ukraine defied orders from the State Department and testified before Congress. Ambassador Yovanovitch, despite doing “nothing wrong,” was recalled from Ukraine because Trump wanted her out, she told investigators. In a stunning day of setbacks, five federal courts dealt blows to the president. Also, the president’
The former ambassador to Ukraine defied orders from the State Department and testified before Congress. 1/20 Ambassador Yovanovitch, despite doing “nothing wrong,” was recalled from Ukraine because Trump wanted her out, she told investigators. 2/20 In a stunning day of setbacks, five federal courts dealt blows to the
Our apologies, but technical difficulties prevented us from sending out today’s newsletter this morning. Two men who had been helping Giuliani investigate Biden were arrested—as they were attempting to flee the US—on charges that they were funneling foreign money to American politicians. Capitulating to Chinese pressure, Apple
Our apologies, but technical difficulties prevented us from sending out today's newsletter this morning. Two men who had been helping Giuliani investigate Biden were arrested—as they were attempting to flee the US—on charges that they were funneling foreign money to American politicians. 1/23 Capitulating to
Pacific Gas & Electric cuts power to 800,000 customers in California to avoid wildfires caused by winds damaging power equipment. The utility has long warned it would such a cut, but critics are still furious. SoCal may get cuts next as Santa Ana winds roll in. Maybe it’s
Pacific Gas & Electric cuts power to 800,000 customers in California to avoid wildfires caused by winds damaging power equipment. 1/24 The utility has long warned it would make such a cut, but critics are still furious. SoCal may get cuts next as Santa Ana winds roll in.
In a scathing letter, the White House says it refuses to participate in the House impeachment inquiry, a move Pelosi calls "further evidence of obstruction." A GOP-led Senate committee calls for congressional action to ensure social media isn't used to interfere in the 2020 presidential election.
In a scathing letter, the White House says it refuses to participate in the House impeachment inquiry, a move Pelosi calls "further evidence of obstruction." 1/23 A GOP-led Senate committee calls for congressional action to ensure social media isn't used to interfere in the 2020
The White House blocks Gordon Sondland, hotelier-turned-US Ambassador to the European Union (and Ukraine fixer), from appearing for a deposition. Why Trump fears Sondland’s testimony: it could show the president directing a cover-up. Here’s all the evidence collected so far in the Trump impeachment inquiry. Republicans join Democrats
The White House blocks Gordon Sondland, hotelier-turned-US Ambassador to the EU (and Ukraine fixer), from appearing for deposition. 1/18 Why Trump fears Sondland’s testimony: it could show the president directing a cover-up. 2/18 Here’s all the evidence collected so far in the Trump impeachment inquiry. 3/
The Trump administration announces it will deny visas to immigrants who cannot prove they have health insurance or can pay for their own medical expenses. A second intelligence official more directly tied to Trump's involvement with Ukraine may file a whistleblower complaint. "The Guardian traced the munition
The Trump administration announces it will deny visas to immigrants who cannot prove they have health insurance or cover their own medical expenses. 1/19 A second intelligence official more directly tied to Trump's involvement with Ukraine may file a whistleblower complaint. 2/19 "The Guardian traced
President Trump openly encourages China and Ukraine to investigate his political rival while his impeachment defense is under siege. Text messages show that Ukraine-US relations depended on Ukraine’s new president investigating Biden and discrediting Robert Mueller's Russia probe. A private pilot explains what it's like
President Trump openly encourages China and Ukraine to investigate his political rival while his impeachment defense is under siege. 1/22 Text messages show that Ukraine-US relations depended on Ukraine’s new president investigating Biden and discrediting Robert Mueller's Russia probe. 2/22 A private pilot explains what
The Trump administration wants to reverse a 2010 regulation and extend the collection of DNA samples of undocumented immigrants to those who are not detained on criminal charges or who are awaiting deportation. After experiencing chest discomfort on Tuesday, Bernie Sanders received two stents to ease a blocked artery. Amber
The Trump administration wants to reverse a 2010 regulation and extend the collection of DNA samples of undocumented immigrants to those who are not detained on criminal charges or who are awaiting deportation. 1/22 After experiencing chest discomfort on Tuesday, Bernie Sanders received two stents to ease a blocked
Hong Kong reels after an 18-year-old protester is shot in the chest with a live bullet, one of six live rounds fired by police. In March, President Trump suggested any migrants trying to reach the United States on foot should be shot in the legs. When it comes to any
Hong Kong reels after an 18-year-old protester is shot in the chest with a live bullet, one of six live rounds fired by police. 1/20 In March, President Trump suggested any migrants trying to reach the United States on foot should be shot in the legs. 2/20 When
Trump and Barr have been asking foreign governments to help in a Justice Dept. inquiry to discredit the Mueller investigation. The State Dept. has now been tied to the Ukraine quagmire, with reports that Pompeo was also on the Trump call. Three House committees have subpoenaed Giuliani to turn over
Trump and Barr have been asking foreign governments to help in a Justice Dept. inquiry to discredit the Mueller investigation. 1/21 The State Dept. has now been tied to the Ukraine quagmire, with reports that Pompeo was also on the Trump call. 2/21 Three House committees have subpoenaed
Please note: We’ll be off next week for a short break, and will be back on Tuesday, Oct. 1—see you then! As seen at yesterday's climate strike, teens and children are making their voices heard. Twenty-three states are suing the Trump administration for overreaching on emissions
Please note: We'll be off next week for a short break, and will be back on Tuesday, Oct. 1—see you then! As seen at yesterday's climate strike, teens and children are making their voices heard. 1/20 Twenty-three states are suing the Trump administration for
The whistleblower complaint about Trump made by an intelligence official would appear to involve Ukraine. On CNN, Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani denies asking Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, then admits he did just that. Nicholas Kristof (invoking Robert Gates): Saudi Arabia “wants to fight the Iranians to the last American.
The whistleblower complaint about Trump made by an intelligence official would appear to involve Ukraine. 1/17 On CNN, Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani denies asking Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, then admits he did just that. 2/17 "These are remarkable stances to take, and they should be viewed
"This is the moment in history we need to be wide awake." Climate activist Greta Thunburg addresses Congress. Trump says the US will pursue sanctions against Iran in retaliation for the attack on Saudi Arabia's oil installations. Alleging Trump made a "promise" to a
"This is the moment in history we need to be wide awake." Climate activist Greta Thunburg addresses Congress. 1/18 Trump says the US will pursue sanctions against Iran in retaliation for the attack on Saudi Arabia's oil installations. 2/18 Alleging Trump made a "
The White House plans to revoke California’s authority to set the country’s strictest automobile emissions standards. On a visit to the state, Trump’s comments about the housing problem sound similar to those of California’s most liberal politicians. See also: A round-up of more than 200 tweets
The White House plans to revoke California’s authority to set the country’s strictest automobile emissions standards. 1/17 On a visit to the state, Trump’s comments about the housing/homelessness problem sound similar to those of California’s most liberal politicians. 2/17 See also: A look
Officials say Iranian weapons were used in the attack on Saudi oil installations that removed 5% of the world's oil output. As part of its investigation into hush money payments, the New York County DA's office has subpoenaed eight years of Trump's tax returns.
Officials say Iranian weapons were used in the attack on Saudi oil installations that removed 5% of the world's oil output. 1/24 As part of its investigation into hush money payments, the New York County DA's office has subpoenaed eight years of Trump's
Actress Felicity Huffman gets two weeks in prison for paying to rig her daughter’s university entrance exams. “I don’t wish this for anyone, but a sentence to 14 days for actual serious fraud just shows how unfair my sentence is.” A response from Crystal Mason, the black Texas
Actress Felicity Huffman gets two weeks in prison for paying to rig her daughter’s university entrance exams. 1/17 “I don’t wish this for anyone, but a sentence of 14 days for actual serious fraud just shows how unfair my sentence is.” A response from Crystal Mason, the
The third Democratic presidential primary debate's winners and losers, according to the New York Times opinion desk. The US government's budget deficit has broken the $1 trillion mark for the first time in seven years. California passes a bill banning for-profit prisons and immigration detention facilities
The third Democratic presidential primary debate's winners and losers, according to the New York Times opinion desk. 1/16 The US government's budget deficit has broken the $1 trillion mark for the first time in seven years. 2/16 California passes a bill banning for-profit prisons
The top 10 Democratic presidential candidates debate tonight, with the three frontrunners facing off for the first time. Biden is expected to attack Warren, his new top competitor, with accusations of hypocrisy, and for having too many solutions. Meanwhile, in the White House: President Trump postpones more China tariffs as
The top 10 Democratic presidential candidates debate tonight, with the three frontrunners facing off for the first time. 1/19 Biden is expected to attack Warren, his new top competitor, with accusations of hypocrisy, and for having too many solutions. 2/19 Meanwhile, in the White House: President Trump postpones
John Bolton has left the Trump administration, after either resigning or being fired. Trump is expected to announce the fourth national security advisor of his presidency next week. Ahead of an appeal that will be heard by the UK's Supreme Court next week, Scotland's highest civil
John Bolton has left the Trump administration, after either resigning or being fired. Trump is expected to announce the fourth national security advisor of his presidency next week. 1/16 Ahead of an appeal that will be heard by the UK's Supreme Court next week, Scotland's
In 2017, the US extracted a top spy in Russia, worrying that Trump’s cavalier handling of intelligence information might expose them. David Leonhardt: If Democrats insist on ending private health insurance and decriminalizing border crossings, they’re playing into Trump’s hands. Some Democrats see Trump using the presidency
In 2017, the US extracted a top spy from Russia, worrying that Trump’s cavalier handling of intelligence information might expose them. 1/19 David Leonhardt: If Democrats insist on ending private health insurance and decriminalizing border crossings, they’re playing into Trump’s hands. 2/19 Some Democrats see
The death toll from Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas is currently at 43, and expected to rise drastically. Many buildings are underwater and hundreds of residents are stranded on an island in North Carolina's Outer Banks, after Dorian moved up the coast. "A hurricane doesn't
The death toll from Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas is currently at 43, and expected to rise drastically. 1/20 Many buildings are underwater and hundreds of residents are stranded on an island in North Carolina's Outer Banks, after Dorian moved up the coast. 2/20 "A
Hurricane Dorian picks up speed, loses strength, while approaching North Carolina, where more than 200,000 have lost power. In the Bahamas, the horror of the hurricane’s destruction continues to unfold. One consequence of Hurricane Dorian: bricks of cocaine floating up on Florida beaches. Robert Mugabe, the Zimbabwean independence
Hurricane Dorian picks up speed, loses strength, on its way to North Carolina, where more than 200,000 have lost power. 1/19 In the Bahamas, the horror of the hurricane’s destruction continues to unfold. 2/19 Other consequences of Hurricane Dorian: bricks of cocaine floating up on Florida
Photos of the Bahamas before and after the devastation of Hurricane Dorian. Dorian has strengthened to a Category 3 hurricane, and is now projected to move "dangerously close" to the Carolinas' coast today. Visualizing the number and scale of fires that burned in Brazil during August. Key
Photos of the Bahamas before and after the devastation of Hurricane Dorian. 1/23 Dorian has strengthened to a Category 3 hurricane, and is now projected to move "dangerously close" to the Carolinas' coast today. 2/23 Visualizing the number and scale of fires that burned in
It's the last day of camp—and time to announce which book you voted to send to the 2020 Tournament of Books.
The Pentagon will divert $3.6 billion in military construction funds to build President Trump's proposed border wall. The Justice Department drafts legislation to address recent incidents of gun violence—with faster executions. Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas brace for Dorian—"the greatest national crisis" in
The Pentagon will divert $3.6 billion in military construction funds to build President Trump's proposed border wall. 1/16 The Justice Department drafts legislation to address recent incidents of gun violence—with faster executions. 2/16 Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas brace for Dorian—"the greatest
The latest maps on where and how hard Hurricane Dorian is expected to affect Florida and the east coast of the US. Trying to force rebel Tory MPs to back his government and abandon blocking a no-deal Brexit, Boris Johnson has threatened a snap general election. Johnson can afford to
The latest maps on where and how hard Hurricane Dorian is expected to affect Florida and the east coast of the US. 1/17 Trying to force rebel Tory MPs to back his government and abandon blocking a no-deal Brexit, Boris Johnson has threatened a snap general election. 2/17
We will be off tomorrow for Labor Day, and we’ll see you on Tuesday. All of Florida is under a state of emergency with Hurricane Dorian potentially arriving as a Category 4 storm on Monday. We read hurricane maps as predictions, but they're really averages—a misinterpretation
We will be off this weekend for Labor Day—see you on Tuesday. All of Florida is under a state of emergency with Hurricane Dorian potentially arriving as a Category 4 storm on Monday. 1/19 We read hurricane maps as predictions, but they're really averages—a misinterpretation
The Trump administration significantly loosens restrictions on methane emissions. Even major oil and gas companies oppose the move. Russia and China move to exploit the Arctic as the climate crisis opens up “a whole new ocean.” Nicholas Kristof: Seattle has done an outstanding job halting the war on drugs, but
The Trump administration significantly loosens restrictions on methane emissions. Even major oil and gas companies oppose the move. 1/22 Russia and China move to exploit the Arctic as the climate crisis opens up “a whole new ocean.” 2/22 Nicholas Kristof: Seattle did an outstanding job halting the war
It's the final day of discussion at Camp ToB, as we finish up the second half of Black Leopard, Red Wolf—and you decide which of our August reads is triumphant.
Boris Johnson asks England’s Queen to suspend Parliament to stop lawmakers from blocking a no-deal Brexit. From the Fed to China to Obama, a rundown of those Trump will most likely blame in case of recession. "The next recession—this year, next year, whenever it comes—will likely
Boris Johnson asks England’s Queen to suspend Parliament to stop lawmakers from blocking a no-deal Brexit. 1/14 From the Fed to China to Obama, a rundown of those Trump will most likely blame in case of recession. 2/14 "The next recession—this year, next year, whenever
Johnson & Johnson ordered to pay $572 million in the first ruling in the US holding a drugmaker accountable for helping fuel the opioid epidemic. As a final gesture of the G7 summit, leaders offer a $20 million aid package to Brazil to fight wildfires. Brazil refuses. See also: Trump
Johnson & Johnson ordered to pay $572 million in the first ruling in the US holding a drugmaker accountable for helping fuel the opioid epidemic. 1/16 As a final gesture of the G7 summit, leaders offer a $20 million aid package to Brazil to fight wildfires. Brazil refuses. 2/
Yesterday, China announced $75 billion in tariffs on US goods, Trump answered with increased tariffs on Chinese goods and "ordering" US companies to cut ties with China, and the Dow ended the day by dropping 600 points. Related: Exemptions to Trump’s China tariffs read like a laundry
Yesterday, China announced $75 billion in tariffs on US goods, Trump answered with increased tariffs on Chinese goods and "ordering" US companies to cut ties with China, and the Dow ended the day by dropping 600 points. 1/22 Related: Exemptions to Trump's China tariffs read
South Korea will scrap its intelligence-sharing pact with Japan. The move, benefiting North Korea and China, shows the weakness of this White House. 1/15 For a 12th weekend of protests, Hong Kong plans for a 33-kilometer human chain of some 100,000 people holding hands. 2/15 Putin critic
South Korea will scrap its intelligence-sharing pact with Japan. The move, benefiting North Korea and China, shows the weakness of the White House. For a 12th weekend of protests, Hong Kong plans for a 33-kilometer human chain of some 100,000 people holding hands. Putin critic Alexei Navalny is released
The Trump administration wants to remove limits on how long undocumented families can be detained, arguing the regulation incentivizes migration. The Congressional Budget Office forecasts the federal deficit will reach nearly $1 trillion this year. The deficit's share of the economy in the next decade will far surpass
The Trump administration wants to remove limits on how long undocumented families can be detained, arguing the regulation incentivizes migration. 1/15 The Congressional Budget Office forecasts the federal deficit will reach nearly $1 trillion this year. The deficit's share of the economy in the next decade will
Five books down, one big, gory, complicated, shock-inducing book to go. This week, we discuss the first half of Marlon James's Black Leopard, Red Wolf.
Boris Johnson visits Berlin in an attempt to negotiate a new deal, with only two months before the Brexit deadline. The Danish legal system is being roiled because of errors in cellphone tracking data offered as evidence. “Bemusement has turned to fury in Denmark” after Donald Trump cancels his planned
Boris Johnson visits Berlin in an attempt to negotiate a new deal, with only two months before the Brexit deadline. 1/19 The Danish legal system is being roiled because of errors in phone tracking data offered as evidence. 2/19 “Bemusement has turned to fury in Denmark” after Donald
Five years after choking Eric Garner to death, NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo has been fired. Planned Parenthood withdraws from federal funding, citing the Trump administration's rule barring abortion referrals. Related: You can donate to Planned Parenthood at its website. For the first time, Facebook and Twitter have identified
Five years after choking Eric Garner to death, NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo has been fired. 1/23 Planned Parenthood withdraws from federal funding, citing the Trump administration's rule barring abortion referrals. 2/23 Related: You can donate to Planned Parenthood at its website. 3/23 For the first
If Trump gets his way, we may soon have a complete withdrawal from Afghanistan, to end America’s longest war. 1/18 “He’s actually worse than a racist. He is so narcissistic, he doesn’t see people as people. He sees them as objects in his field of vision.
Topical headline TK Topical headline TK Topical headline TK Some think democracy is having a midlife crisis. New books suggest we don’t even know what democracy is. This year is stocked with police officers being shot by people who were not legally allowed to possess guns. We should expect
A new Trump proposal would allow federally contracted businesses to use religious objections as a means of discriminating against workers based on nearly anything. Following reports that Trump repeatedly asked his staff about buying Greenland from Denmark, Greenland responds that it's "not for sale." Greenlanders overwhelmingly
A new Trump proposal would allow federally contracted businesses to use religious objections as a means of discriminating against workers based on nearly anything. 1/19 Following reports that Trump repeatedly asked his staff about buying Greenland from Denmark, Greenland responds that it's "not for sale."
Global markets continue to slide, with the 30-year US government bond yield dropping to its lowest level on record. People who buy expensive bunkers—a booming business currently—feel that global forces have left society increasingly vulnerable. A large survey of voting machine security finds a significant number of voters
Global markets continue to slide, with the 30-year US government bond yield dropping to its lowest level on record. 1/17 People who buy expensive bunkers—a booming business currently—feel that global forces have left society increasingly vulnerable. 2/17 A large survey of voting machine security finds a
This week, we wrap up our discussion of the first book in our August matchup: Lauren Wilkinson's American Spy.
Since El Paso, at least six men have been arrested in separate threats to undertake copycat murders. A lack of diversity in media is seen in the short shrift given to the targeted nature of the El Paso attack. A comparison of right-wing media and the El Paso killer'
At least six men have been arrested since El Paso in separate threats to undertake copycat murders. 1/15 A lack of diversity in media is found in the short shrift given to the targeted nature of the El Paso attack. 2/15 A comparison of right-wing media and the
For yet another day, protesters practically shut down Hong Kong’s airport. Hong Kong’s chief executive refused to offer a political solution to the crisis. “What we have is racist harmony.” Singapore’s government likes to think it's unprejudiced. Furor over a "brownface" ad proves
For yet another day, protesters practically shut down Hong Kong’s airport. Hong Kong’s chief executive refuses to offer a political solution to the crisis. 1/18 “What we have is racist harmony.” Singapore’s government likes to think it's unprejudiced. Furor over a "brownface"
Accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein was found dead by apparent suicide in his jail cell this morning. Critical US voting systems remain vulnerable, with many still accessible online, despite officials' assurances to the contrary. With 8chan's shutdown, far-right users head to messaging platforms, the dark web, and
Accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein was found dead by apparent suicide in his jail cell this morning. 1/18 Critical US voting systems remain vulnerable, with many still accessible online, despite officials' assurances to the contrary. 2/18 With 8chan's shutdown, far-right users head to messaging platforms,
The annual Hajj pilgrimage begins today. In 2018, 2.37 million Muslims made the journey to Mecca. Russians plan protests tomorrow in Moscow and 40 other cities for another weekend of civil unrest. Domino's spent $8.5 million stockpiling ingredients to prepare for a hard Brexit. Many companies
The annual Hajj pilgrimage begins today. In 2018, 2.37 million Muslims made the journey to Mecca. 1/15 Russians plan protests tomorrow in Moscow and 40 other cities for another weekend of civil unrest. 2/15 Domino's spent $8.5 million stockpiling ingredients to prepare for a
In raids on seven food-processing plants in Mississippi, 680 undocumented workers were arrested, in some cases leaving children with no one to pick them up from school. Swept up in Trump's immigration enforcement, a 41-year-old Detroit man was deported to Iraq, where he died on Tuesday from lack
In raids on seven food-processing plants in Mississippi, 680 undocumented workers were arrested, in some cases leaving children with no one to pick them up from school. 1/16 Swept up in Trump's immigration enforcement, a 41-year-old Detroit man was deported to Iraq, where he died on Tuesday
Four books down, and two to go until our end-of-summer finale, where you'll decide which of our Camp ToB reads goes to the 2020 Tournament of Books. This week, we begin our final matchup of the summer with the first half of American Spy.
The President visits Dayton and El Paso. Dayton’s mayor says Trump’s comments on guns are “unhelpful.” Leaders in El Paso urge Trump to stay away. Venezuela and Uruguay issue a travel warning about the US, warning visitors about violence and hate crimes. For 24 hours, 36 journalists spread
The President visits Dayton and El Paso. Dayton’s mayor says Trump’s comments on guns are “unhelpful.” Leaders in El Paso wish Trump would stay away. 1/14 Venezuela and Uruguay issue a travel warning about the US, warning visitors about violence and hate crimes. 2/14 For 24
Two more people have died from this weekend's mass shooting in El Paso, bringing the death toll to 22 victims. How the Trump campaign has used Facebook advertising to promote the use of the term "invasion" in the context of immigration. "You’re a good
Two more people have died from this weekend's mass shooting in El Paso, bringing the death toll to 22 victims. 1/23 How the Trump campaign has used Facebook advertising to promote the use of the term "invasion" in the context of immigration. 2/23 "
The US officially quits the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces agreement, so maybe we’ll have a new arms race with Russia. Trump lets it be known he doesn’t believe Mueller’s warnings about Russian election-hacking. More than 110 US towns and cities can claim that a 2020 presidential candidate put
The US officially quits the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces agreement, so maybe we’ll have a new arms race with Russia. 1/19 Trump lets it be known he doesn’t believe Mueller’s warnings about Russian election-hacking. 2/19 More than 110 US towns and cities can claim that a
No one knows who will become Puerto Rico's governor after Rosselló steps down at 5 p.m. today. In a memo, the FBI has identified fringe conspiracy theories—specifically naming QAnon and Pizzagate—as a domestic terrorist threat. Today the US formally withdraws from a landmark 1987 arms
No one knows who will become Puerto Rico's governor after Rosselló steps down at 5 p.m. today. 1/21 In a memo, the FBI has identified fringe conspiracy theories—specifically naming QAnon and Pizzagate—as a domestic terrorist threat. 2/21 Today the US formally withdraws from
The winner of Wednesday’s debate? Universal healthcare. The theme of the debate? Joe Biden is too far behind the Democrats’ shift to the left. The Republicans’ real nightmare: Among black Americans, the most common age is 27, same for nonwhite Americans overall. The most common age among whites is
The winner of Wednesday’s debate? Universal healthcare. The theme of the debate? Joe Biden is too far behind the Democrats’ shift to the left. 1/20 The Republicans’ real nightmare: Among black Americans, the most common age is 27, same for nonwhite Americans overall. The most common age among
This week, we take a very unexpected turn as we enter the second half of Susan Choi's Trust Exercise. And it's time for you to tell us which of our two July books you want to see in our end-of-summer finale.
Winners from night one of the second Democratic debate: Warren, Delaney, and “Republican talking point.” For tonight’s round two, expect to see Harris and Biden square off again. Here’s a guide to where 2020 Democrats stand on various policies. "Race and politics is really the story of
Winners from night one of the second Democratic debate: Warren, Delaney, and “Republican talking point.” 1/19 For tonight’s round two, expect to see Harris and Biden square off again. Here’s a guide to where 2020 Democrats stand on various policies. 2/19 "Race and politics is
Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders face off tonight alongside eight other candidates in another round of Democratic debates. How to approach the Democratic presidential candidates like Marie Kondo. Hundreds of residents mourn the three people shot and killed at the Gilroy Garlic Festival. The shooter’s semiautomatic weapon, illegal to
Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders face off tonight alongside eight other candidates in another round of Democratic debates. 1/22 How to approach the Democratic presidential candidates like Marie Kondo. 2/22 Hundreds of residents mourn the three people shot and killed at the Gilroy Garlic Festival. 3/22 The
Three University of Mississippi students are under investigation for posing with guns in front of a bullet-riddled sign honoring Emmett Till, the 14-year-old African American who was tortured and murdered in 1955. Yesterday the Supreme Court ruled the Trump administration can use money from the Dept. of Defense for a
Three University of Mississippi students are under investigation for posing with guns in front of a bullet-riddled sign honoring Emmett Till, the 14-year-old African American who was tortured and murdered in 1955. 1/22 Yesterday the Supreme Court ruled the Trump administration can use money from the Dept. of Defense
The United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the Netherlands all broke high-temperature records yesterday. Europe's hottest summers for the last 500 years have come in the past 17. 1/18 There's a strong likelihood that July will end up being the warmest month ever measured on Earth.
The United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the Netherlands all broke high-temperature records yesterday.Europe's hottest summers for the last 500 years have come in the past 17. There's a strong likelihood that July will end up being the warmest month ever measured on Earth. Forget the
In Mueller's Congressional testimony yesterday, Republicans claimed bias, Democrats claimed obstruction, and no one paid attention to the former special counsel's repeated warning that Russia and other nations are actively working to undermine the 2020 election. Following days of protests, Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rosselló announces
In Mueller's Congressional testimony yesterday, Republicans claimed bias, Democrats claimed obstruction, and no one paid attention to the former special counsel's repeated warning that Russia and other nations are actively working to undermine the 2020 election. 1/18 Following days of protests, Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo
We head into the latter half of Camp ToB with the second book in our July matchup, Susan Choi's Trust Exercise.
Members of the NAACP, the nation’s oldest civil rights organization, voted unanimously Tuesday to impeach President Trump. Former special counsel Robert Mueller testifies today before the House Judiciary Committee and the House Intelligence Committee. To elect Boris Johnson prime minister, only 160,000 members of the Conservative Party voted—
Members of the NAACP, the nation’s oldest civil rights organization, voted unanimously Tuesday to impeach President Trump. 1/15 Former special counsel Robert Mueller testifies today before the House Judiciary Committee and the House Intelligence Committee. 2/15 To elect Boris Johnson prime minister, only 160,000 members of
After winning the Tory leadership, Boris Johnson will succeed Theresa May as Britain's next prime minister. Amid Gov. Rosselló's refusal to resign, hundreds of thousands of Puerto Ricans protested in the streets of San Juan yesterday. The ICE raids that targeted thousands of families in the
After winning the Tory leadership, Boris Johnson will succeed Theresa May as Britain's next prime minister. 1/20 Amid Gov. Rosselló's refusal to resign, hundreds of thousands of Puerto Ricans protested in the streets of San Juan yesterday. 2/20 The ICE raids that targeted thousands
A slip of the tongue may best explain Trump's collective foreign policy: to align the United States with white nations. Secretary of State Pompeo calls China's large-scale detention of Muslims and other minorities the human rights "stain of the century." From a meeting with
A slip of the tongue may best explain Trump's collective foreign policy: to align the United States with white nations. 1/16 Secretary of State Pompeo calls China's large-scale detention of Muslims and other minorities the human rights "stain of the century." 2/16
Trump says the Navy shot down an Iranian drone that came within 1,000 yards of a US warship, a claim Iran denies, saying none of its drones have been lost, and that the US may have downed one of its own drones. The EPA has rejected a ban on
Trump says the Navy shot down an Iranian drone that came within 1,000 yards of a US warship, a claim Iran denies, saying none of its drones have been lost, and that the US may have downed one of its own drones. 1/18 The EPA has rejected a
The White House’s immigration policies follow a model pioneered by the European Union and Australia. What the US-China trade war is really about: Huawei's communications technologies and the future of Taiwan. “Send her back” joins “build that wall” as the latest Trump rally chant. On the appeal
The White House’s immigration policies follow a model pioneered by the European Union and Australia. 1/19 What the US-China trade war is really about: Huawei's communications technologies and the future of Taiwan. 2/19 “Send her back” joins “build that wall” as the latest Trump rally
This week, we wrap up Valeria Luiselli's Lost Children Archive, and we have so much to talk about.
Federal prosecutors won’t bring criminal charges against the New York City cop who choked Eric Garner to death. "Trump appeared in a live-action remake of racial comments," and other handy euphemisms for white supremacists. Snopes stops saying "fake news," as the term is too imprecise,
Federal prosecutors won’t bring criminal charges against the New York City cop who choked Eric Garner to death. 1/21 "Trump appeared in a live-action remake of racial comments," and other handy euphemisms for white supremacists. 2/21 Snopes stops saying "fake news," as the
The White House projects the deficit to surpass $1 trillion for the first time in US history. A new Trump rule effectively kills asylum protections for most migrants at our southern border. Democrats will censure the president for doubling down on remarks that four of its members “go back” to
The White House projects the deficit to surpass $1 trillion for the first time in US history. 1/20 A new Trump rule kills asylum protections for most migrants at our southern border. 2/20 Democrats will censure the president for doubling down on remarks that four of its members
Now 40 miles off the coast of Lafayette, La., Hurricane Barry is currently a Category 1, and is expected to make landfall sometime today. A Palantir user manual shows how the secretive company, which manages information for ICE and other government agencies, uses data to identify and track individuals. A
Now 40 miles off the coast of Lafayette, La., Hurricane Barry is currently a Category 1, and is expected to make landfall sometime today. 1/20 A Palantir user manual shows how the secretive company, which manages information for ICE and other government agencies, uses data to identify and track
Tropical Storm Barry presents New Orleans with an unprecedented problem: a Mississippi river cresting at 19 feet. Secretary of Labor R. Alexander Acosta steps down amid criticism of the Jeffrey Epstein plea deal. See also: R. Kelly arrested on a 13-count federal indictment of child pornography and sex trafficking charges.
Tropical Storm Barry presents New Orleans with an unprecedented problem: a Mississippi river cresting at 19 feet. 1/18 Secretary of Labor Acosta steps down amid criticism of the Jeffrey Epstein plea deal. 2/18 See also: R. Kelly arrested on a 13-count federal indictment of child pornography and sex
The ICE raids that were postponed a few weeks ago are now scheduled to begin on Sunday. Today's White House social media summit won't include anyone from Facebook or Twitter, but will have invitees from a site once popular with neo-nazis. Photos from yesterday's
The ICE raids that were postponed a few weeks ago are now scheduled to begin on Sunday. 1/18 Today's White House social media summit won't include anyone from Facebook or Twitter, but will have invitees from a site once popular with neo-nazis. 2/18 Photos
Migrant arrests at the US-Mexico border fell 28% in June after reaching a 13-year high in May. Mexico's finance minister quit abruptly, saying the current administration's policymaking was not "based on evidence." The Affordable Care Act is being challenged in court again. "If
It's a new month and a new matchup. This week, we're discussing the first half of Valeria Luiselli's Lost Children Archive.
Migrant arrests at the US-Mexico border fell 28% in June after reaching a 13-year high in May. 1/15 Mexico's finance minister quit abruptly, saying the current administration's policymaking was not "based on evidence." 2/15 The Affordable Care Act is being challenged in
Billionaire financier Jeffrey Epstein has been charged with running a sex-trafficking operation involving underage girls as young as 14. How Russian intelligence helped start and spread the Seth Rich conspiracy theory that eventually made its way to primetime Fox News. Homeland Security plans to hold mass video immigration proceedings in
Billionaire financier Jeffrey Epstein has been charged with running a sex-trafficking operation involving underage girls as young as 14. 1/23 How Russian intelligence helped start and spread the Seth Rich conspiracy theory that eventually made its way to primetime Fox News. 2/23 Homeland Security plans to hold mass
Another major earthquake rocks buildings and baseball stadiums across Southern California. The 7.1 magnitude quake, the second big tremblor in two days, caused damage, rockslides, and power outages in the Ridgecrest area. For our West Coast readers: how to plan; what to do; a podcast that simulates the Big
Another major earthquake rocks buildings and baseball stadiums across Southern California. 1/20 The 7.1 magnitude quake, the second big tremblor in two days, causes damage, rockslides, and power outages around Ridgecrest. 2/20 For our West Coast readers (looking at you, Seattle): how to plan, what to do,
One day following news that the 2020 US census was being printed without a citizenship question—adhering to the Supreme Court ruling against adding the question—Trump instructs the Justice Dept. to find a way to include it. "The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence, bequeathed by
One day following news that the 2020 US census was being printed without a citizenship question—adhering to the Supreme Court ruling against adding the question—Trump instructs the Justice Dept. to find a way to include it. 1/18 "The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence,
The total taxpayer cost for Trump's Fourth of July extravaganza in DC tomorrow is unknown, but it's going to be expensive—and $2.5 million of the bill will be covered by funds diverted from National Park improvement. Iran will "take the next step"
Please note: The newsletter will be off tomorrow, July 4, and will return on Friday. The total taxpayer cost for Trump's Fourth of July extravaganza in DC tomorrow is unknown, but it's going to be expensive—and $2.5 million of the bill will be covered
This month marks the longest US economic expansion on record, and the longest stretch of monthly job gains. Most of those jobs are in the service sector, doing little to lift communities suffering lost manufacturing jobs. A good headline to summarize the weekend in diplomacy: “Trump Helps Bring Shunned Authoritarians
This month marks the longest US economic expansion on record, and the longest stretch of monthly job gains. 1/15 Most of those jobs are in the service sector, doing little to lift communities suffering lost manufacturing work. 2/15 A good headline to summarize the weekend in diplomacy: “Trump
Following a meeting with Xi at the G-20 summit in Osaka, Trump announces trade negotiations with China are "back on track." Trump tweets an invitation to Kim Jong-un to meet up and shake hands at the DMZ tomorrow. Obama birthers are going after Kamala Harris, questioning her eligibility
Following a meeting with Xi at the G-20 summit in Osaka, Trump announces trade negotiations with China are "back on track." 1/17 Trump tweets an invitation to Kim Jong-un to meet up and shake hands at the DMZ tomorrow. 2/17 Obama birthers are going after Kamala
Trump is still so bothered about the legitimacy of his election, Russian hacking is now a joke he makes with Putin. Your weekly white paper: How Saudi Arabia is introducing "a new form of obedience" that replaces the old social contract. An Economist reporter live-tweeted the greatest hits
Trump is still so bothered about the legitimacy of his election, Russian hacking is now a joke he makes with Putin. 1/19 Your weekly white paper: How Saudi Arabia is introducing "a new form of obedience" that replaces the old social contract. 2/19 An Economist reporter
Among the takeaways from the first night of Democratic debates: Castro had a breakout evening, Warren stayed the course, and de Blasio surprised. Here's what to watch for in tonight's debate. In a pair of rulings, the Supreme Court blocks adding a citizenship question to the
Among the takeaways from the first night of Democratic debates: Castro had a breakout evening, Warren stayed the course, and de Blasio surprised. Here's what to watch for in tonight's debate. 1/19 In a pair of rulings, the Supreme Court blocks adding a citizenship question
This week we wrap up our June reading—and it's time for you to decide which of the two books we read this month heads to our end-of-summer finale.
Democrats pass a $4.5 billion emergency border aid bill tied to efforts to oppose Trump's broader immigration agenda. Republicans in the Senate have a different plan in mind. Robert Mueller will testify before Congress on July 17. Two neighborhoods in Chicago, Streeterville and Englewood, have the most
Democrats pass a $4.5 billion emergency border aid bill tied to efforts to oppose Trump's broader immigration agenda. 1/15 Republicans in the Senate have a different plan in mind—a comparison of the two. 2/15 Robert Mueller will testify before Congress on July 17. 3/
Hundreds of migrant children are being moved from a Border Patrol station in Texas after lawyers visited last week and discovered the squalid conditions, where detainees aren’t provided with adequate soap, toothpaste, and other essentials. "For God's sake, they're kids, man." Town residents
Hundreds of migrant children are being moved from a Border Patrol station in Texas after lawyers visited last week and discovered the squalid conditions, where detainees aren't provided with adequate soap, toothpaste, and other essentials. 1/18 "For God's sake, they're kids, man.
Tomorrow's ICE raids in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, and San Francisco are intended to detain up to 2,000 families, targeting people "who have received final orders of deportation." 1/23 "We've never had anything
Tomorrow's ICE raids in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, and San Francisco are intended to detain up to 2,000 families, targeting people "who have received final orders of deportation." "We've never had anything like this
Trump tweets that he called off a retaliatory strike on Iran with 10 minutes to go after learning it could kill 150 people, which he said wouldn't be "proportionate to shooting down an unmanned drone." It was unclear why Mr. Trump would have been getting information
Trump tweets that he called off a retaliatory strike on Iran with 10 minutes to go after learning it could kill 150 people, which he said wouldn't be "proportionate to shooting down an unmanned drone." 1/17 "It was unclear why Mr. Trump would have
It’s World Refugee Day. Here’s the story of a baby separated from his father while both of them tried to apply for asylum in the United States. The number of people displaced worldwide by war, persecution, and violence in 2018 would amount to the world’s 20th most
It’s World Refugee Day. Here’s the story of a baby separated from his father while both of them tried to apply for asylum in the United States. 1/18 The number of people displaced worldwide by war, persecution, and violence in 2018 would amount to the world’s
The most important news today: On its very first mission, Boaty McBoatface, the submarine named by the internet, uncovers a link between Antarctic winds and warming seas. Boris Johnson widens his lead to become the UK’s next prime minister, but his most vocal Tory critic is still in the
This week, we kick off our second book of the summer: a dive into the sex, drugs, and rock and roll of the late '60s LA music scene.
The most important news today: On its very first mission, Boaty McBoatface, the submarine named by the internet, uncovers a link between Antarctic winds and warming seas. 1/22 Boris Johnson widens his lead to become the UK’s next prime minister, but his most vocal Tory critic is still
Trump officially launches his reelection bid and quickly fires several pollsters after numbers leak showing the President trailing Democratic candidates in key states. Trump says ICE will make mass arrests of “millions” of undocumented immigrants starting “next week.” In El Paso, Border Patrol is detaining migrants in “a human dog
Trump officially launches his reelection bid and quickly fires several pollsters after numbers leak showing the President trailing Democratic candidates in key states. 1/19 Trump says ICE will make mass arrests of “millions” of undocumented immigrants starting “next week.” 2/19 In El Paso, Border Patrol is detaining migrants
In a victory for trans rights, the 9th Circuit vacated a lower court's precarious decision that Trump's trans military ban is unconstitutional, and has ruled the ban discriminates against transgender people. "The past few weeks have witnessed a nasty internecine fight among religious conservatives about
In a victory for trans rights, the 9th Circuit vacated a lower court's precarious decision that Trump's trans military ban is unconstitutional, and has ruled the ban discriminates against transgender people. 1/21 "The past few weeks have witnessed a nasty internecine fight among religious
A British court will decide if Julian Assange will be extradited to the US where he faces charges under the Espionage Act. France bans the publication of statistical information about judges’ decisions, punishable by five years in prison. The sound of crying detained children wails through speakers in 24 art
A British court decides if Julian Assange will be extradited to the US where he faces charges under the Espionage Act. 1/18 France bans the publication of statistical information about judges’ decisions, punishable by up to five years in prison. 2/18 The sound of crying children in detention
Two oil tankers, one owned by Japan and the other owned by Norway, have been attacked in the Gulf of Oman, as PM Abe was wrapping up talks in Tehran. Between 2012 and 2017, ICE placed detainees in solitary confinement in over 8,000 instances. Some immigrant children detained at
Two oil tankers, one owned by Japan and the other owned by Norway, have been attacked in the Gulf of Oman, as PM Abe was wrapping up talks in Tehran. 1/23 Between 2012 and 2017, ICE placed detainees in solitary confinement in over 8,000 instances. 2/23 Some
Welcome back for the second week of Camp ToB 2019! Gather round for the conclusion of Elizabeth McCracken's Bowlaway.
Protesters face off against riot police in Hong Kong. Sunday saw the city’s largest protest ever, opposing a controversial bill to make extraditions to China easier. Thanks to the climate crisis, we can look forward to a significant expansion of dengue fever. See also: To reduce your arachnophobia or
Protesters face off against riot police in Hong Kong. Sunday saw the territory's largest protest ever, opposing a controversial bill to make extraditions to China easier. 1/18 Thanks to the climate crisis, we can look forward to a significant expansion of dengue fever. 2/18 See also:
A helicopter crashed on top of a midtown Manhattan building yesterday, killing the pilot. Officials say there's no indication of a terror threat. Mexico's foreign minister says there is no secret immigration deal, despite what Trump has claimed. Photos of tens of thousands of travelers entering
A helicopter crashed on top of a midtown Manhattan building yesterday, killing the pilot. Officials say there's no indication of a terror threat. 1/19 Mexico's foreign minister says there is no secret immigration deal, despite what Trump has claimed. 2/19 Photos of tens of
Trump calls off tariffs on Mexican goods following news that the US and Mexico have negotiated an agreement on immigration enforcement, details of which have yet to be announced. Photos from yesterday's second line for Dr. John in New Orleans. Any criticism can be dismissed as an attempt
Trump calls off tariffs on Mexican goods following news that the US and Mexico have negotiated an agreement on immigration enforcement, details of which have yet to be announced. 1/19 Photos from yesterday's second line for Dr. John in New Orleans. 2/19 "Any criticism can
Ahead of Trump's Monday tariff deadline, Mexico has arrested two caravan organizers and will send 6,000 national guard troops to its southern border in order to stem the flow of undocumented immigrants. Additionally, Mexico and the US are discussing changes to asylum rules, including a requirement that
Ahead of Trump's Monday tariff deadline, Mexico has arrested two caravan organizers and will send 6,000 national guard troops to its southern border in order to stem the flow of undocumented immigrants. 1/23 Additionally, Mexico and the US are discussing changes to asylum rules, including a
A new report, modeling future scenarios based on existing research, says the climate crisis may pose a doomsday scenario as soon as 2050. Related: How many Americans will die in major cities as a result of the climate crisis and in what fashion. A report from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, the world’
Future scenarios based on existing research say the climate crisis may pose a doomsday scenario as soon as 2050. 1/18 Related: How many Americans will die in major cities as a result of the climate crisis and in what fashion. 2/18 Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is the world’s most
Start swapping those friendship bracelets—it's the first week of Camp ToB 2019! This time around, we're discussing the first half of Elizabeth McCracken's new novel.
At least 60 people are dead after troops attacked pro-democracy protesters in Sudan's capital Khartoum. The UN’s deputy high commissioner for human rights says a recent global rise in illiberalism has a single source: Donald Trump. Related: Pompeo made a big statement on Tiananmen and the Uighurs.
Today’s newsletter is a little light and a little late as we prepare to escort everyone to their cabins at Camp ToB. (Check the homepage if you want to join us!) Thanks for understanding. At least 60 people are dead after troops attacked pro-democracy protesters in Sudan's
It’s been 30 years since the massacre in Tiananmen Square. Hong Kong maintains its annual vigil. In a rare acknowledgement from the Chinese government, a minister actually defends the killings of hundreds or perhaps thousands of unarmed protesters. Answers from inside Venezuela to uncomfortable questions about a suffering nation.
It’s been 30 years since the massacre in Tiananmen Square. Hong Kong maintains its annual vigil. 1/17 In a rare acknowledgement from the Chinese government, a minister actually defends the murder of hundreds or perhaps thousands of unarmed protesters. 2/17 Answers from inside Venezuela to uncomfortable questions
A Virginia Beach city employee shot and killed 12 at a municipal center. It's the deadliest US attack since the November 2018 shooting in Thousand Oaks, Calif. Federal prosecutors have disregarded a judge's order to make public transcripts of conversations between Michael Flynn and Russia'
A Virginia Beach city employee shot and killed 12 at a municipal center. It's the deadliest US attack since the November 2018 shooting in Thousand Oaks, Calif. 1/20 Federal prosecutors have disregarded a judge's order to make public transcripts of conversations between Michael Flynn and
Trump says he’ll impose tariffs on all Mexican imports—an old, favorite threat—unless Mexico prevents migrants from reaching the US border. In West Texas, the folks crossing the border illegally are Americans, returning from doctor appointments. Markets show fears of a global recession as the China-US trade war
Trump says he’ll impose tariffs on all Mexican imports—an old, favorite threat—unless Mexico prevents migrants from reaching the US border. 1/20 In West Texas, the folks crossing the border illegally are Americans, returning from doctor appointments. 2/20 Markets display fears of a global recession as
Speaking publicly about the Russia investigation, Robert Mueller states the special counsel's report did not exonerate Trump: "If we had had confidence that the president clearly did not commit a crime, we would have said so." Joining Mississippi, Ohio, Georgia, Kentucky, and Missouri, Louisiana passes a
Speaking publicly about the Russia investigation, Robert Mueller states the special counsel's report did not exonerate Trump: "If we had had confidence that the president clearly did not commit a crime, we would have said so." 1/23 Joining Mississippi, Ohio, Georgia, Kentucky, and Missouri, Louisiana
In the Midwest, government weather forecasters have logged reports of more than 500 tornadoes in 30 days. Weeks of heavy rain result in historic flooding that’s swamping Oklahoma and Arkansas. Meanwhile: An overview of the White House's new plans to undermine the National Climate Assessment. Your obsolete
In the Midwest, government weather forecasters have logged reports of more than 500 tornadoes in 30 days. 1/18 Weeks of heavy rain result in historic flooding that’s swamping Oklahoma and Arkansas. 2/18 Meanwhile: An overview of the White House's new plans to undermine the National
Election, elections, elections: Europe goes to the polls, Modi wins in India, Britain enters chaos post-May, and South Africa’s results reflect widespread disillusion. Nevada may become the 15th state seeking to break from the Electoral College in favor of a popular vote. “If POTUS stopped negotiating legislation, would anyone
Election, elections, elections: Europe goes to the polls, Modi wins in India, Britain enters chaos post-May, and South Africa’s results reflect widespread disillusion. 1/17 Nevada may become the 15th state seeking to break from the Electoral College in favor of a popular vote. 2/17 “If POTUS stopped
Theresa May announces she will step down as Conservative Party leader on June 7, and will remain as PM until a new leader is in place, likely by the end of July. The US Justice Dept. indicts Julian Assange under the Espionage Act, the first time a publisher has been
Theresa May announces she will step down as Conservative Party leader on June 7, and will remain as PM until a new leader is in place, likely by the end of July. 1/21 The US Justice Dept. indicts Julian Assange under the Espionage Act, the first time a publisher
The Pentagon presents plans to the White House to send up to 10,000 more troops to the Middle East. For the third time in barely six months, the president blew up a meeting with Nancy Pelosi, his nemesis. Perhaps Trump is just trying out the latest trendy advice column
The Pentagon presents plans to the White House to send up to 10,000 more troops to the Middle East. 1/20 For the third time in barely six months, the president blew up a meeting with Nancy Pelosi, his nemesis. 2/20 Perhaps Trump is just trying out that
Contradicting Mnuchin, a confidential IRS memo says Trump's tax returns must be handed over to Congress, unless the president invokes executive privilege. In more than 500 demonstrations, thousands marched yesterday in the US as part of #StopTheBans. Here are photos from the protests. In the past six months,
Contradicting Mnuchin, a confidential IRS memo says Trump's tax returns must be handed over to Congress, unless the president invokes executive privilege. 1/16 In more than 500 demonstrations, thousands marched yesterday in the US as part of #StopTheBans. Here are photos from the protests. 2/16 In
President Trump’s former counsel will skip his hearing today with the House Judiciary Committee, at the White House’s instruction. House Democratic leaders spar with Pelosi and her allies over beginning an impeachment inquiry. The White House loses a lawsuit challenging a House subpoena for Trump’s financial records.
President Trump’s former counsel will skip his hearing today with the House Judiciary Committee, at the White House’s instruction. 1/17 House Democratic leaders spar with Pelosi and her allies over beginning an impeachment inquiry. 2/17 The White House loses a lawsuit challenging a House subpoena for
Of the 24 Democrats currently running for president, only 10 mention reproductive rights on their websites. In border wall planning, Trump prefers sharp, injury-prone spikes rather than field-tested anti-climbing surfaces. Trump's "Tech Bias Reporting Tool" is almost certainly a ruse to lure people into being targeted
Of the 24 Democrats currently running for president, only 10 mention reproductive rights on their websites. 1/15 In border wall planning, Trump prefers sharp, injury-prone spikes rather than field-tested anti-climbing surfaces. 2/15 Trump's "Tech Bias Reporting Tool" is almost certainly a ruse to lure
Trump says he doesn’t want war with Iran, while his senior diplomats look for ways to defuse tensions. Iran says Trump’s approach to resuming talks is like “holding a gun at someone and asking for friendship and negotiations.” Analysis: Any student of international relations will notice the White
Trump says he doesn’t want war with Iran, while his senior diplomats look for ways to defuse tensions. 1/19 Iran says the White House's approach to resuming talks is like “holding a gun at someone and asking for friendship.” 2/19 Analysis: Any student of international
After Alabama and Georgia, Missouri is the next state ready to pass a near-total abortion ban. The best time to get angry is earlier, when the local advocates and organizers who do the hard work of securing freedoms in red states day in and day out could use the support.
After Alabama and Georgia, Missouri is the next state preparing to pass a near-total abortion ban. 1/21 "The best time to get angry is earlier, when the local advocates and organizers who do the hard work of securing freedoms in red states day in and day out could
Carbon dioxide hit its highest levels in human history this weekend. Also, it was 84 degrees near the Arctic Ocean. Thirty-seven years ago, Exxon scientists described all the horrors we’re facing now thanks to rising emissions. A retired naval officer just made the deepest dive ever inside a submarine.
Carbon dioxide hit its highest levels in human history this weekend. Also, it was 84 degrees near the Arctic Ocean. 1/22 Thirty-seven years ago, Exxon scientists described all the horrors we’re facing now thanks to rising emissions. 2/22 A retired naval officer just made the deepest dive
Following last week's tariff increase on Chinese imports, China retaliates with tariffs on nearly $60 billion of US goods that would go into effect on June 1. According to one retail industry representative: "Americans' entire shopping cart will get more expensive." The Trump administration has
Following last week's tariff increase on Chinese imports, China retaliates with tariffs on nearly $60 billion of US goods that would go into effect on June 1. According to one retail industry representative: "Americans' entire shopping cart will get more expensive." 1/20 The Trump
South Africa's corruption-riddled African National Congress (ANC) returns to office after winning parliamentary election once again. Alabama postpones a vote on what would be the country's most restrictive abortion ban. “It’s work porn. It’s exhilarating work porn.” A study of the subtly professional media
South Africa's corruption-riddled African National Congress (ANC) returns to office after winning parliamentary election once again. 1/16 Alabama postpones a vote on what would be the country's most restrictive abortion ban. 2/16 “It’s work porn. It’s exhilarating work porn.” A study of
As the trade negotiation deadline passes, Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods jump from 10% to 25%, and economists think it's likely China will miss its growth targets as a result of the tariffs, and will enact stimulus measures. In an op-ed, Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes calls
As the trade negotiation deadline passes, Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods jump from 10% to 25%, and economists think it's likely China will miss its growth targets as a result of the tariffs, and will enact stimulus measures. 1/21 In an op-ed, Facebook co-founder Chris
The White House on Wednesday asserted executive privilege over special counsel Robert Mueller’s full report, further escalating its conflict with Democrats. Reactions: "We are now in a constitutional crisis" (Jerrold Nadler). “I think it’s a constitutional confrontation. I don’t think it’s yet a crisis”
The White House on Wednesday asserted executive privilege over special counsel Robert Mueller’s full report, further escalating its conflict with Democrats. 1/20 A few reactions: "We are now in a constitutional crisis" (Jerrold Nadler). 2/20 “I think it’s a constitutional confrontation. I don’t
One student is dead and eight are injured in a shooting at a Colorado school. "I heard a gunshot," said Makai Dixon, 8, a second grader who had been training for this moment, with active shooter drills and lockdowns, since he was in kindergarten. "I’d never
One student is dead and eight are injured in a shooting at a Colorado school. 1/24 "'I heard a gunshot,' said Makai Dixon, 8, a second grader who had been training for this moment, with active shooter drills and lockdowns, since he was in kindergarten. '
A massive new UN report finds that nature is collapsing around us, "with devastating implications for human survival." A 25-foot fiberglass shark crashing through a roof in Oxford, England, has oddly become a source of civic pride. Queen Elizabeth I of England drank from "a unicorn horn
A massive new UN report finds that nature is collapsing around us, "with devastating implications for human survival." 1/22 A 25-foot fiberglass shark crashing through a roof in Oxford, England, has oddly become a source of civic pride. 2/22 Queen Elizabeth I of England drank from
Three months of conversation, two novels a month, and one final champion that advances to the 2020 Tournament of Books. Vote for the novels you want us to read and discuss this summer.
In a phone call yesterday, Trump and Putin agreed "there was no collusion." Asked afterward whether they talked about election meddling or if he warned Putin not to do it again, Trump said, "Really, we didn’t discuss it." “They feel no obligation to provide appropriate
In a phone call yesterday, Trump and Putin agreed "there was no collusion." Asked afterward whether they talked about election meddling or if he warned Putin not to do it again, Trump said, "Really, we didn't discuss it." 1/22 "They feel no
Your heavy-think read for the commute: Americans need to consider if our foreign policy is actually an insidious form of empire. In the poorest countries as well as the richest, mental disorders are "the greatest thief of productive life." See also: Burger King introduces a range of unhappy
Your heavy-think read for the commute: Americans need to consider if our foreign policy is actually an insidious form of empire. 1/21 In the poorest countries as well as the richest, mental disorders are "the greatest thief of productive life." 2/21 See also: Burger King introduces
In a senate hearing that played out along party lines, Attorney General Barr faced scrutiny over his handling of the Russia investigation findings. Following the release of Mueller's letter questioning Barr's portrayal of the special counsel's report, some senators pointed out Barr lied during
In a senate hearing that played out along party lines, Attorney General Barr faced scrutiny over his handling of the Russia investigation findings. 1/23 Following the release of Mueller's letter questioning Barr's portrayal of the special counsel's report, some senators pointed out Barr
In Venezuela, anti-government demonstrators clash with forces loyal to the president. France deploys a massive police presence, bracing for a repeat of last year's May 1 violence. Twenty-seven years ago, L.A. burned after four cops were acquitted for the savage beating of Rodney King. But was it
In Venezuela, anti-government demonstrators clash with forces loyal to the president. 1/18 France deploys a massive police presence, bracing for a repeat of last year's May 1 violence. 2/18 Twenty-seven years ago, L.A. burned after four cops were acquitted for the savage beating of Rodney
Thousands of schoolchildren in Puerto Rico have developed symptoms of PTSD due to the stresses of Hurricane Maria. Trump has instructed officials to issue new regulations that would speed up immigration cases in court and impose an application fee for asylum seekers. Donald Trump and three of his children—Donald,
Thousands of schoolchildren in Puerto Rico have developed symptoms of PTSD due to the stresses of Hurricane Maria. 1/14 Trump has instructed officials to issue new regulations that would speed up immigration cases in court and impose an application fee for asylum seekers. 2/14 Donald Trump and three
"This greatly encourages us and gives us hope." Brief interviews with members of the global climate strike movement. France’s Macron promises reforms to the yellow vest movement, but many see Macron as the problem. Since 1989, 2,425 wrongfully convicted people in the US have been exonerated.
"This greatly encourages us and gives us hope." Brief interviews with members of the global climate strike movement. 1/18 France’s Macron promises reforms to the yellow vest movement, but many see Macron as the problem. 2/18 Since 1989, 2,425 wrongfully convicted people in the
Estimates show immigration can lower the Social Security deficit by offsetting record numbers of retiring boomers. Trump flip-flopped in his definition of a "great job" on border arrests; though by either measure, Bush and Obama outpaced him. UCLA and Cal State LA quarantined hundreds of students and faculty
Estimates show immigration can lower the Social Security deficit by offsetting record numbers of retiring boomers. 1/20 Trump flip-flopped in his definition of a "great job" on border arrests; though by either measure, Bush and Obama outpaced him. 2/20 UCLA and Cal State LA quarantined hundreds
Greenland's ice is melting six times faster than it did in the 1980s. The ice losses are likely to get worse. More than 600 million Indians face acute water shortages. Climate change will be a "force multiplier" for the crisis. Los Angeles has a shade problem—
Greenland's ice is melting six times faster than it did in the 1980s. The ice losses are likely to get worse. 1/19 More than 600 million Indians face acute water shortages. Climate change will be a "force multiplier" for the crisis. 2/19 Los Angeles
Sri Lanka has detained 18 more suspects in its hunt for the bombers who killed more than 350 people on Sunday. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin delays a decision on whether to release Trump's tax returns to Congress, saying he needs until May 6, "after receiving the Justice
Sri Lanka has detained 18 more suspects in its hunt for the bombers who killed more than 350 people on Sunday. 1/18 Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin delays a decision on whether to release Trump's tax returns to Congress, saying he needs until May 6, "after receiving
Sri Lanka holds a national day of mourning as the Easter attacks’ death toll rises to 310. Meet the five Africans on TIME's annual list of the 100 most influential people globally. From photographer Marta Moreiras, portraits of Senegalese fathers carrying their babies on their backs. President Trump
Sri Lanka holds a national day of mourning as the Easter attacks’ death toll rises to 310. 1/22 Meet the five Africans on TIME's annual list of the 100 most influential people globally. 2/22 From photographer Marta Moreiras, portraits of Senegalese fathers carrying their babies on
Two teenagers have been arrested in journalist Lyra McKee’s murder, which Northern Ireland police deem a “terrorist incident.” From carbon taxation to nuclear energy, the 18 Democrats seeking the presidency state their positions on climate policies. Not built to withstand flooding, many US nuclear power plants are located in
Two teenagers have been arrested in journalist Lyra McKee's murder, which Northern Ireland police deem a "terrorist incident." 1/20 From carbon taxation to nuclear energy, the 18 Democrats seeking the presidency state their positions on climate policies. 2/20 Not built to withstand flooding, many
So, the (redacted) Mueller report: read it for yourself, try a summary of greatest hits, or just dip into the report’s executive summaries. Or try it with annotations! Or study the redactions! Or listen to a group of legal experts. What most people don’t say: “Dear Democrats: Mueller
So, the (redacted) Mueller report. Read it for yourself, try a summary of greatest hits, or just dip into the report’s executive summaries. 1/18 Or try it with annotations! Or study the redactions! Or listen to a group of legal experts. 2/18 What most people don’t
Prior to sending the redacted Mueller report to Congress today, Attorney General Barr will hold a news conference at 9:30 a.m. (ET). Here's what to watch for during and after Barr’s conference and the document's release. Based on what Barr previously told Congress,
Prior to sending the redacted Mueller report to Congress today, Attorney General Barr is holding a news conference this morning. Here's what to watch for during and after Barr's conference and the document's release. 1/19 Based on what Barr previously told Congress, this
President Trump vetoes a resolution that would have stopped US support for the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen. “This resolution is an unnecessary, dangerous attempt to weaken my constitutional authorities.” As always, it’s all about him. The five US counties with the highest IRS audit rates are all predominantly
President Trump vetoes a resolution that would have stopped US support for the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen. 1/22 “This resolution is an unnecessary, dangerous attempt to weaken my constitutional authorities.” As always, it’s all about him. 2/22 The five US counties with the highest IRS audit
A fire consumed the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, destroying two thirds of its roof and bringing down its spire in what investigators believe is an accident. After a nine-hour operation that involved nearly 400 firefighters, the Paris fire department announced this morning that "the entire fire is out.
A fire consumed the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, destroying two thirds of its roof and bringing down its spire in what investigators believe is an accident. 1/23 After a nine-hour operation that involved nearly 400 firefighters, the Paris fire department announced this morning that "the entire fire
Trump reportedly told Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan he'd pardon him if he disregarded US law and blocked asylum seekers. Trump confirms the report that the White House wanted to send detained immigrants to sanctuary cities, and claims he's still considering the move. Related:
Trump reportedly told Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan he'd pardon him if he disregarded US law and blocked asylum seekers. 1/20 Trump confirms the report that the White House wanted to send detained immigrants to sanctuary cities, and claims he's still considering the
Thousands turn out in Los Angeles for Nipsey Hussle's funeral procession. After four months of protests, Sudan's President al-Bashir has finally been arrested, only to be replaced by his defense minister, who is accused of carrying out war crimes in Darfur. Ohio's governor has
Thousands fill the streets in Los Angeles for Nipsey Hussle's funeral procession. 1/22 After four months of protests, Sudan's President al-Bashir has finally been arrested, only to be replaced by his defense minister, who is accused of carrying out war crimes in Darfur. 2/22
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is arrested after Ecuador withdraws its asylum after seven years. “From his alleged interference in other countries’ affairs to accusing his hosts of spying, the WikiLeaks founder finally has to face life outside.” See also: how the Trump administration stepped up its pursuit of Assange. "
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is arrested after Ecuador withdraws its asylum after seven years. 1/23 “From his alleged interference in other countries’ affairs to accusing his hosts of spying, the WikiLeaks founder finally has to face life outside.” 2/23 See also: How the Trump administration stepped up its
"We have seen what we thought was unseeable." Scientists have released the first-ever photo of a black hole. Appearing before a House subcommittee, Barr defends his four-page summary of the Mueller report, telling lawmakers they don't have the authority to view the full report, and says
"We have seen what we thought was unseeable." Scientists have released the first-ever photo of a black hole. 1/15 Appearing before a House subcommittee, Barr defends his four-page summary of the Mueller report, telling lawmakers they don't have the authority to view the full report,
“They are decapitating the entire department.” The White House dismantles the leadership of the Department of Homeland Security. Why? For months, Trump has demanded they reinstate his policy of separating migrant families at the border. Here’s a master list of departures since Trump took office, also an interactive timeline.
“They are decapitating the entire department.” The White House dismantles the leadership of the Department of Homeland Security. 1/23 Why? For months, Trump has demanded they reinstate his policy of separating migrant families at the border. 2/23 Here’s a master list of departures since Trump took office,
In the past two weeks, three historically black churches have burned in a single Louisiana parish. Brexit news is now so erratic that machine-driven trading systems can't forecast the price of the pound. Prediction markets work pretty well at guessing the future, but surveying individuals with solid track
In the past two weeks, three historically black churches have burned in a single Louisiana parish. 1/16 Brexit news is now so erratic that machine-driven trading systems can't forecast the price of the pound. 2/16 Prediction markets work pretty well at guessing the future, but surveying
In the US-supported, Saudi/UAE-led bombing campaign in Yemen, there have been 17,729 civilian casualties. Congress invokes never-before-used powers to demand that Trump withdraw support from the war in Yemen. Trump is expected to veto. A poem to relate: "No Explosions," by Naomi Shihab Nye. In the
In the US-supported, Saudi/UAE-led bombing campaign in Yemen, there have been 17,729 civilian casualties. 1/21 Congress invokes never-before-used powers to demand that Trump withdraw support from the war in Yemen. (Trump will veto.) 2/21 A poem to relate: "No Explosions," by Naomi Shihab Nye.
Investigators from Mueller's team say the findings from their report are worse for Trump than Barr portrayed. The House Democrat-controlled Ways and Means Committee has formally requested the Treasury provide the past six years of Trump's personal and business tax returns, as well as details of
Investigators from Mueller's team say the findings from their report are worse for Trump than Barr portrayed. 1/18 The House Democrat-controlled Ways and Means Committee has formally requested the Treasury provide the past six years of Trump's personal and business tax returns, as well as
House Democrats subpoena the full Mueller report “without redactions” and “without delay,” a move that will likely end up in court. See also: "Trump Aides Fear He Is Overselling His 'Exoneration.'" Whether it’s closing the border or health care, DC is “reeling with policy whiplash”
House Democrats will subpoena the full Mueller report today “without redactions” and “without delay,” a move that will likely end up in court. 1/22 A related headline: "Trump Aides Fear He Is Overselling His 'Exoneration.'" 2/22 Whether it’s health care or closing the
If Trump closes any portion of the US-Mexico border, as he's threatening to do, it would cost US businesses billions, and would be, according to El Paso's mayor, "a critical killer to us, frankly." Brexit remains in disarray after Parliament voted on four new
If Trump closes any portion of the US-Mexico border, as he's threatening to do, it would cost US businesses billions, and would be, according to El Paso's mayor, "a critical killer to us, frankly." 1/20 Brexit remains in disarray after Parliament voted on
End the madness: Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut sees paying college athletes as a civil rights issue. Researchers fall in one of two camps about homework: those that support the "10-minute rule," and those that absolutely do not. The visible-butt revolution has not ruined us yet. And still,
End the madness: Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut sees paying college athletes as a civil rights issue. 1/17 Researchers fall in one of two camps about homework: those that support the "10-minute rule," and those that absolutely do not. 2/17 The visible-butt revolution has not ruined
A federal district court judge blocks another Trump administration effort to undermine Obamacare. The FDA head calls for the release of what could be millions of unpublished reports of injuries caused by medical devices. “The immigration system is at breaking point.” The number of new arrivals at the US southern
Please note: TMN's headlines will be less great through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. A federal district court judge blocks another Trump administration effort to undermine Obamacare. 1/12 The FDA calls for the release of what could be millions of
The Brexit process “remains in deadlock” after the British Parliament fail to find a majority for any of eight different options on Wednesday. The trouble with Theresa May’s promise to resign: “It does nothing to solve Britain’s Brexit mess.” Very good Jeremy Harding on why the rage in
Please note: TMN's headlines will be less great through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. The Brexit process “remains in deadlock” after the British Parliament fails to find a majority for any of Wednesday's eight different options. 1/21 The
The Affordable Care Act remade the US health insurance system. Unfortunately, the White House has no plan for what comes next if courts decide to overturn it. Related: The White House wants to revoke an Obama-era rule designed to make light bulbs more energy efficient. A timeline of Nixon'
Please note: TMN's headlines will be less great through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. The Affordable Care Act remade the US health insurance system. Unfortunately, the White House has no plan for what comes next if courts decide to overturn it.
As you probably know, Mueller found that Trump didn’t collude with Russia, and Barr concluded that he didn’t obstruct justice. A legal guide to reading the letter sent by Barr to congressional leaders on Sunday. Both sides of Congress want Mueller’s full report, which may detail what
Please note: TMN's headlines will be less great through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. As you know by now, Mueller found that Trump didn’t collude with Russia, and Barr concluded that he didn’t obstruct justice. 1/21 A legal
Special counsel Robert S. Mueller III concludes his nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. In a different letter, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform wants to know why Trump son-in-law Jared Kusher uses WhatsApp for government business. Moving to stifle the left, the Democratic
Please note: TMN's headlines will be less great through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. Special counsel Robert S. Mueller III concludes his nearly two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. 1/13 In a different letter, the House Committee
Hundreds of thousands are expected to turn out tomorrow for a march in London demanding another vote on Brexit. If May’s latest deal fails, the EU will back a delay only until April 12. Over two million people in Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe have been affected by Cyclone Idai.
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. Hundreds of thousands are expected to turn out tomorrow for a march in London demanding another vote on Brexit. 1/14 If May’s latest deal fails, the
Extreme precipitation and flooding may be the new normal in the Great Lakes region due to climate change. Along the Missouri River, one man controls a network of dams “that dictates the fate of millions of people.” A new Amnesty International report says US air strikes in Somalia—ramped up
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. Extreme precipitation and flooding may be the new normal in the Great Lakes region due to climate change. 1/15 Along the Missouri River, one man controls a
Robert Mueller's team would appear to be winding down their investigation. At the same time, it appears to be quite busy. See also: “New Mueller probe revelations explain Trump's rage,” or “Trump's ever-expanding list of grievances.” The Nebraska Farm Bureau puts crop and ranch
Robert Mueller's team would appear to be winding down their investigation. At the same time, it appears to be quite busy. See also: “New Mueller probe revelations explain Trump's rage,” or “Trump's ever-expanding list of grievances.” The Nebraska Farm Bureau puts crop and ranch
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. Robert Mueller's team would appear to be winding down its investigation. At the same time, it appears to be quite busy. 1/15 See also: “New
Dismayed by political barriers to popular policies, 2020 Dems look at structural reforms to the judiciary, filibuster, and more. The question before the US and other advanced countries is not: Immigration, yes or no? “The questions to ask are: How much? What kind?” The US government and others—without consent—
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. Dismayed by political barriers to popular policies, 2020 Dems look at structural reforms to the judiciary, filibuster, and more. 1/13 The question before the United States and
In the wake of New Zealand’s mass shooting, Trump finds ways to downplay the threat of white nationalism. Students around the world skipped school on Friday to demonstrate for climate action. Here’s the story of a formerly homeless student who learned this week he’d been accepted to
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. In the wake of New Zealand’s mass shooting, Trump finds ways to downplay the threat of white nationalism. 1/17 Students around the world skipped school on
At least 49 people were killed and 20 seriously injured in mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand. A 17-minute video of a portion of the attack “leapt across the internet faster than social media censors could remove it.” The UK Parliament votes to postpone the Brexit deadline, leaving
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. At least 49 people were killed and 20 seriously injured in mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand. 1/18 A 17-minute video of a portion of
Beto O’Rourke becomes the eleventh current or former elected official to enter the 2020 Democratic presidential primaries. Andrew Sullivan on what happened when Britain's Labour party went hard left. The President faces his first two vetoes after Senate Republicans break rank over Yemen and Trump’s border
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. Beto O’Rourke becomes the eleventh current or former elected official to enter the 2020 Democratic presidential primaries. 1/15 Andrew Sullivan on what happened when Britain'
A growing number of countries are grounding or banning Boeing 737 Max 8 plans, but the FAA stands firm on their safety. Trump and Boeing’s CEO chat on the phone. Perhaps Trump said that he doesn’t want really, really, really smart people flying planes. Worth remembering: An American
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. A growing number of countries are grounding or banning Boeing 737 Max 8 plans, but the FAA stands firm on their safety. 1/26 Trump and Boeing’s
Singapore and Australia ban Boeing 737 Max aircraft after an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing Max 8 crashed on Sunday, killing 157 people on board. Airlines, passenger advocates, and insurance experts discuss the popular Max 8. Southwest Airlines has the most Max 8s in the world. “This week will mark a turning
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. Singapore and Australia ban Boeing 737 Max aircraft after an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing Max 8 crashed on Sunday, killing 157 people on board. 1/19 Airlines, passenger advocates,
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. The European Union announces that American travelers will need a visa to visit from now on (post-Trump). 1/19 The latest action heroes in Gotham: female building inspectors
The latest action heroes in Gotham: female building inspectors equipped with rappelling equipment. "TelAbortion" enables women to have the procedure at home, but with medical oversight. Neoclassicism meets anime in Cristina BanBan's paintings of the female figure. Many of the biggest stars in US women'
Former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort gets 47 months in jail for tax and bank fraud. More sentencing awaits. Even without knowing what’s in the Mueller report, “we already have witnessed the biggest political scandal in American history.” Someone in the White House leaks documents related to Jared Kushner
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. Former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort gets 47 months in jail for tax and bank fraud. More sentencing awaits. 1/19 Even without knowing what’s in the
The number of migrants intercepted at the US southern border reaches an 11-year high—“a border security and a humanitarian crisis.” When the New York Times says it’s an emergency except when Trump says it is, a reader asks, so is it a crisis or not? The American consensus
Please note: TMN will operate at a slower rate through March while we host The 2019 Tournament of Books. Thanks for understanding. The number of migrants intercepted at the US southern border reaches an 11-year high—“a border security and a humanitarian crisis.” 1/18 When the New York Times
House Democrats postpone voting to condemn anti-Semitism after "an array of progressive groups" call for solidarity with Rep. Ilhan Omar. See also: Making tone-deaf remarks isn’t as bad as supporting de facto apartheid. A self-described neoliberal describes why the Democrats need to accept the politics, if not
House Democrats postpone voting to condemn anti-Semitism after "an array of progressive groups" call for solidarity with Rep. Ilhan Omar. 1/20 See also: Making tone-deaf remarks isn’t as bad as supporting de facto apartheid. 2/20 A self-described neoliberal describes why the Democrats need to accept
The House Judiciary Committee launches a sweeping investigation into whether Trump and his team have engaged in obstruction of justice, corruption, and abuse of power. FYI: The next several months will be a doozy. McConnell says there are enough disapproving votes in the Senate to block Trump’s national emergency
The House Judiciary Committee launches a sweeping investigation into whether Trump and his team have engaged in obstruction of justice, corruption, and abuse of power. 1/20 FYI: The next several months will be a doozy. 2/20 McConnell says there are enough disapproving votes in the Senate to block
Massage parlors are a $3 billion-a-year industry with thousands of women “ensnared in a form of modern indentured servitude.” Teenagers who struggle to stay safe in their neighborhoods annotate a crime article to offer tips for journalists covering murder. The Pew Research Center moves its polling online as the response
Massage parlors are a $3 billion-a-year industry with thousands of women “ensnared in a form of modern indentured servitude.” 1/16 Teenagers who struggle to stay safe in their neighborhoods annotate a crime article to offer tips for journalists covering murder. 2/16 The Pew Research Center moves its polling
After the Trump-Kim summit fell apart over disagreements as to who would give up what, don’t be surprised if Kim responds by accelerating production on his nuclear arsenal. Yes, pedophiles are using YouTube to spread child pornography and yes, there are videos on YouTube telling children to commit suicide.
After the Trump-Kim summit fell apart over disagreements as to who would give up what, don’t be surprised if Kim responds by accelerating production on his nuclear arsenal. 1/16 Yes, pedophiles are using YouTube to spread child pornography and yes, there are videos on YouTube telling children to
The president’s former lawyer tells Congress that the president manipulates financial records, pays to cover up extramarital affairs, and says racist crap, among other things. Basically: “My loyalty to Mr Trump has cost me everything.” To prove that Trump is not racist, a North Carolina Senator invites a black
The president’s former lawyer tells Congress that the president manipulates financial records, pays to cover up extramarital affairs, and says racist crap, among other things. 1/21 Basically: “My loyalty to Mr Trump has cost me everything.” 2/21 To prove that Trump is not racist, a Republican Senator
Michael Cohen is set to publicly testify today before the House Oversight Committee. Among the many assertions in Cohen's opening statement for today's testimony is that he heard Trump take a call from Stone about the planned Wikileaks dump—and that Trump never wanted to win,
Michael Cohen is set to publicly testify today before the House Oversight Committee. 1/18 Among the many assertions in Cohen’s opening statement for today’s testimony is that he heard Trump take a call from Stone about the planned Wikileaks dump—and that Trump never wanted to win,
The president’s former lawyer will detail to Congress this week how he witnessed "lies, racism and cheating" during a decade with Trump. US House members will vote today on a measure to undo Trump’s “national emergency.” It will probably also clear the GOP-controlled Senate. Britain’s
The president’s former lawyer will detail to Congress this week how he witnessed "lies, racism and cheating" during a decade with Trump. 1/20 US House members will vote today on a measure to undo Trump’s “national emergency.” The measure will probably also clear the GOP-controlled
The US Dept. of Health and Human Services releases a draft of its Title X revisions, which would effectively defund Planned Parenthood. A state-by-state comparison of Trump's current net approval against his 2016 margin of victory shows he's doing better in some states he won, but
The US Dept. of Health and Human Services releases a draft of its Title X revisions, which would effectively defund Planned Parenthood. 1/18 A state-by-state comparison of Trump’s current net approval against his 2016 margin of victory shows he’s doing better in some states he won, but
Venezuelans need help, but the international community agrees that the US should stay out; its motive is provocation, not aid. House Democrats will file a resolution today seeking to block President Trump's emergency declaration. A wide-ranging disinformation campaign aimed at Democratic 2020 candidates is already underway on social
Venezuelans need help, but the international community agrees that the US should stay out; its motive is provocation, not aid. 1/21 House Democrats will file a resolution today seeking to block President Trump's emergency declaration. 2/21 A wide-ranging disinformation campaign aimed at Democratic 2020 candidates is
A US Coast Guard lieutenant and self-proclaimed white nationalist has been arrested for illegally stockpiling weapons with the intent of launching a terrorist attack targeting media figures and Democratic politicians. The Supreme Court has ruled there are constitutional limits on civil forfeiture, in which states seize cash and other private
A US Coast Guard lieutenant and self-proclaimed white nationalist has been arrested for illegally stockpiling weapons with the intent of launching a terrorist attack targeting media figures and Democratic politicians. 1/21 The Supreme Court has ruled there are constitutional limits on civil forfeiture, in which states seize cash and
A sweeping report on Donald Trump’s two-year war on the investigations encircling the White House. Sen. Bernie Sanders raised more than $4 million in 12 hours after announcing his 2020 presidential campaign. (Harris raised $1.5 million in the first 24 hours.) A scientist says low levels of toxic
A sweeping report on Donald Trump’s two-year war on the investigations encircling the White House. 1/21 Sen. Bernie Sanders raised more than $4 million in 12 hours after announcing his 2020 presidential campaign. (Harris raised $1.5 million in the first 24 hours.) 2/21 A scientist says
California, joined by 15 others states, is suing the Trump administration for using emergency powers to divert taxpayer funds "lawfully set aside by Congress for the people of our states." Additionally, three Texas landowners, along with an environmental group, have filed suit, claiming Trump's order violates
California, joined by 15 others states, is suing the Trump administration for using emergency powers to divert taxpayer funds "lawfully set aside by Congress for the people of our states." Additionally, three Texas landowners, along with an environmental group, have filed suit, claiming Trump's order violates
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s decision to essentially shutter the state’s high-speed rail project is disappointing to supporters of the Green New Deal. “The United States is overdue for high-speed rail: it represents the standard we are trailing.” Another day in America: An employee opened fire at his workplace
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s decision to essentially shutter the state’s high-speed rail project is disappointing to supporters of the Green New Deal. 1/16 “The United States is overdue for high-speed rail: it represents the standard we are trailing.” 2/16 Another day in America: An employee opened
Trump is expected to sign the new funding bill today—avoiding another government shutdown—as well as declare a national emergency in order to pay for his wall. The presidential power to declare a national emergency is provided under the National Emergencies Act of 1976, which—in Trump's
Trump is expected to sign the new funding bill today—avoiding another government shutdown—as well as declare a national emergency in order to pay for his wall. 1/21 The presidential power to declare a national emergency is provided under the National Emergencies Act of 1976, which—in Trump’
Since the Parkland massacre one year ago, there's basically been another Parkland every five days. "Most gun stores face no legal requirements to secure the weapons they sell." How to rob gun stores: an illustrated journey. A federal judge rules that Paul Manafort lied about his
Since the Parkland massacre one year ago, there's basically been another Parkland every five days. 1/23 "Most gun stores face no legal requirements to secure the weapons they sell." How to rob gun stores: an illustrated journey. 2/23 A federal judge rules that Paul
Another partial government shutdown will be triggered Friday if Trump doesn't approve the new funding bill currently making its way through Congress. In addition to falling well short of Trump's $5.7 billion demand for the wall, the bill specifies the barrier cannot be built with
Another partial government shutdown will be triggered Friday if Trump doesn’t approve the new funding bill currently making its way through Congress. In addition to falling well short of Trump’s $5.7 billion demand for the wall, the bill specifies the barrier cannot be built with concrete. 1/
Eight-one percent of American adults believe Robert Mueller’s report should be released, including 79 percent of Republicans. About 34% of Americans say putting on blackface for Halloween is always or sometimes acceptable. A computer model predicts which nations currently are at greatest risk for genocide: the DRC, Afghanistan, and
Congressional negotiators reach a tentative deal to keep the government open with much less wall funding than Trump wants. 1/23 Eight-one percent of American adults believe Robert Mueller’s report should be released, including 79 percent of Republicans. 2/23 About 34% of Americans say putting on blackface for
Since the beginning of Trump's Bedminster golf club in 2004, dozens of undocumented workers from Costa Rica—with management's knowledge—have worked there. Some even helped build it. Washington told itself a comforting story that minimized the importance of this outbreak of kleptomania: These were criminal
Since the beginning of Trump’s Bedminster golf club in 2004, dozens of undocumented workers from Costa Rica—with management’s knowledge—have worked there. Some even helped build it. 1/17 Washington told itself a comforting story that minimized the importance of this outbreak of kleptomania: These were criminal
The United Kingdom has started to recruit civilians to work in an emergency crisis center in the aftermath of a potential no-deal Brexit. One London radio host has become famous for trying to convert Brexiteers every day on his show. A breakdown of Ocasio-Cortez and Markey’s new Green New
The United Kingdom begins to recruit civilians to work in an emergency crisis center in the aftermath of a potential no-deal Brexit. 1/19 One London radio host has become famous for trying to convert Brexiteers every day on his show. 2/19 British teenagers explain why they love to
After Virginia's attorney general admits he wore blackface at a party, the state's Democratic leadership appears in peril, and Republicans look to capturing a state Trump lost in 2016. A county-by-county census map shows how slavery spread in the US between 1790 and 1860. Hours after
After Virginia’s attorney general admits he worse blackface at a party, the state’s Democratic leadership appears in peril, and Republicans look to capturing a state Trump lost in 2016. 1/16 A county-by-county census map shows how slavery spread in the US between 1790 and 1860. 2/16
President Donald Trump used his second State of the Union address to make repeated calls for bipartisanship, much to Democrats’ puzzlement. Last week the president called bipartisan negotiations a "waste of time." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi trends on Twitter after she “invented this weird walrus clap that was
President Donald Trump used his second State of the Union address to make repeated calls for bipartisanship, much to Democrats’ puzzlement. 1/23 Last week the president called bipartisan negotiations a "waste of time." 2/23 House Speaker Nancy Pelosi trends on Twitter after she “invented this weird
In violation of US agreements, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have given American-made weapons to al Qaeda, Iran-backed rebels, Salafi militias, and other factions waging war in Yemen. Federal prosecutors have ordered Trump's inaugural committee to hand over financial documents, potentially to investigate money laundering or election fraud.
In violation of US agreements, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have given American-made weapons to al Qaeda, Iran-backed rebels, Salafi militias, and other factions waging war in Yemen. 1/21 Federal prosecutors have ordered Trump’s inaugural committee to hand over financial documents, potentially to investigate money laundering or election
Trump pulls the plug on a decades-old nuclear arms treaty with Russia, saying Moscow’s been violating it “with impunity.” "At least we have a secretary-general who is listening." The UN takes baby steps toward becoming a feminist organization. See also: Girls can now become Eagle Scouts, too.
Trump pulls the plug on a decades-old nuclear arms treaty with Russia, saying Moscow’s been violating it “with impunity.” 1/20 "At least we have a secretary-general who is listening." The UN takes baby steps toward becoming a feminist organization. 2/20 See also: Girls can now
The US has suspended a nuclear arms treaty with Russia that's been in effect since 1987, accusing the Kremlin of violating the terms of the agreement. At least 21 people have died so far in the polar vortex, many due to cold-related injuries. A US judge has ruled
The US has suspended a nuclear arms treaty with Russia that’s been in effect since 1987, accusing the Kremlin of violating the terms of the agreement. 1/21 At least 21 people have died so far in the polar vortex, many due to cold-related injuries. 2/21 A US
From Chicago to Australia, more greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere increase the chances of abnormal temperatures. See also: “Yes, fire is used to keep Chicago trains running in the cold.” Pictures of Australia's January heat wave, which follows the warmest December on record. Equipment owned by California’
From Chicago to Australia, more greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere increase the chances of abnormal temperatures. 1/20 See also: “Yes, fire is used to keep Chicago trains running in the cold.” 2/20 Pictures of Australia's recent heat wave, which follows the warmest December on record.
An explanation of the polar vortex that's right now making Chicago colder than the Arctic. New polls find most Americans are worried about climate change, but few would pay more than a dollar a month to fix it. The goal was to address the global scientific community through
An explanation of the polar vortex that’s making Chicago colder than the Arctic right now. 1/21 New polls find most Americans are worried about climate change, but few would pay more than a dollar a month to fix it. 2/21 The goal was to address the global
Trump's shutdown cost the US economy $6 billion—more than the $5.7 billion ransom he demanded for his wall. Some federal contractors lost their health insurance during the shutdown, and fear losing it again if a second shutdown happens. Why more Americans will never retire: Among other
Trump's shutdown cost the US economy $6 billion—more than the $5.7 billion ransom he demanded for his wall. 1/18 Some federal contractors lost their health insurance during the shutdown, and fear losing it again if a second shutdown happens. 2/18 Why more Americans will
During the 2016 presidential campaign and transition, Donald J. Trump and at least 17 campaign officials and advisers had contacts with Russian nationals and WikiLeaks, or their intermediaries. Trump ends his hostage negotiations, signing a stopgap spending bill that will reopen the government for the next three weeks, allowing 800,
During the 2016 presidential campaign and transition, Donald J. Trump and at least 17 campaign officials and advisers had contacts with Russian nationals and WikiLeaks, or their intermediaries. 1/20 Trump ends his hostage negotiations, signing a stopgap spending bill that will reopen the government for the next three weeks,
The FBI arrests longtime Trump aide and confidant Roger Stone after being indicted for allegations he lied to and obstructed the House Intelligence Committee's investigation. A US District Judge revokes Paul Manafort’s bail to prevent him from contacting witnesses. Here’s everyone who’s been charged in
The FBI arrests longtime Trump aide and confidant Roger Stone after being indicted for allegations he lied to and obstructed the House Intelligence Committee's investigation. 1/23 A US District Judge revokes Paul Manafort’s bail to prevent him from contacting witnesses. 2/23 Here’s everyone who’
Amid economic turmoil in Venezuela, protestors are calling for President Nicolás Maduro to step down. The leader of the country's legislative body, Juan Guaidó, who has argued last year's elections were rigged by Maduro, has publicly assumed the presidency, and has now been backed by the
Amid economic turmoil in Venezuela, protestors are calling for President Nicolás Maduro to step down. The leader of the country’s legislative body, Juan Guaidó, who has argued last year’s elections were rigged by Maduro, has publicly assumed the presidency, and has now been backed by the Trump administration.
The US Army concludes that Iran was the only winner of our eight-year war in Iraq. Official photos of the president are retouched occasionally for social media to make his face thinner, his fingers longer. See also: Photographs of balloons on the verge of popping. A record 1,500 individual
The US Army concludes that Iran was the only winner of our eight-year war in Iraq. 1/18 Official photos of the president are retouched occasionally for social media to make his face thinner, his fingers longer. 2/18 See also: Photographs of balloons on the verge of popping. 3/
Kamala Harris announced yesterday that she’s running for president, becoming the third senator expected to enter the 2020 race, alongside Kirsten Gillibrand and Elizabeth Warren. The problem isn’t that Harris was an especially bad prosecutor. She made positive contributions as well—encouraging education and reentry programs for ex-offenders,
Kamala Harris announced yesterday that she’s running for president, becoming the third senator expected to enter the 2020 race, alongside Kirsten Gillibrand and Elizabeth Warren. 1/14 The problem isn’t that Harris was an especially bad prosecutor. She made positive contributions as well—encouraging education and reentry programs
Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s office says the Buzzfeed story about Cohen and Trump is inaccurate. Ironically, Trump relied on his nemesis, Mueller, to advance his critique of BuzzFeed and the press on Friday night. Interview with the author of a mash note to Mueller, her “sweet, square Swan.” Chris
Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s office says the Buzzfeed story about Cohen and Trump is inaccurate. 1/23 Ironically, Trump relied on his nemesis, Mueller, to advance his critique of BuzzFeed and the press on Friday night. 2/23 Interview with the author of a mash note to Mueller, her
In a bombshell new revelation, federal law enforcement officers say Trump directed Cohen to lie under oath to Congress about ongoing negotiations for a Moscow Trump Tower—even as Trump told the public he had no business dealings in Russia. The House Intelligence committee says it will investigate. Related: In
In a bombshell new revelation, federal law enforcement officers say Trump directed Cohen to lie under oath to Congress about ongoing negotiations for a Moscow Trump Tower—even as Trump told the public he had no business dealings in Russia. The House Intelligence committee says it will investigate. 1/17
Do you like being a loner? It might be time to rethink that. Interacting with other people can lead to a lot of great things. In fact, the Tournament of Books would never have been started if some friends hadn’t gotten together at a bar for a friendly social
House Speaker Pelosi asks President Trump to postpone his State of the Union address, currently slated for January 29. Aides want Trump to use the speech to move public opinion to his side. Privately, Trump’s expressing frustration. A suicide bombing claimed by the Islamic State kills at least 16
House Speaker Pelosi asks President Trump to postpone his State of the Union address, currently slated for January 29. 1/18 Aides want Trump to use the speech to move public opinion to his side. Privately, Trump’s expressing frustration. 2/18 A suicide bombing claimed by the Islamic State
Yesterday, Theresa May's Brexit deal lost by a 230-vote margin—the worst defeat in the history of the House of Commons—sparking a no-confidence vote against May today. If she loses, it could mean another general election. In his senate confirmation hearing, Trump's attorney general pick
Ah 2018, the year of the Super Bowl selfie kid, Fortnite, and A Star Is Born. These movements, and more, dramatically impacted the cultural landscape of 2018. Don’t even get us started on the sheer volume of Ally and Jackson Maine Halloween costumes this year. All of these trends
Yesterday, Theresa May’s Brexit deal lost by a 230-vote margin—the worst defeat in the history of the House of Commons—sparking a no-confidence vote against May today. If she loses, it could mean another general election. 1/18 In his senate confirmation hearing, Trump’s attorney general pick
Last year, President Trump repeatedly suggested a move equal to destroying NATO: the withdrawal of the United States. “Even discussing the idea of leaving NATO—let alone actually doing so—would be the gift of the century for Putin.” Eighteen other reasons the President of the United States may be
Last year, President Trump repeatedly suggested a move equal to destroying NATO: the withdrawal of the United States. 1/21 “Even discussing the idea of leaving NATO—let alone actually doing so—would be the gift of the century for Putin.” 2/21 Eighteen other reasons the President of the
The shutdown is now our government’s longest. Around 800,000 federal employees missed their first paycheck. About 40 percent of Americans have said in surveys that they can't handle a surprise $400 expense. Trump's national emergency gambit, "a new obvious face-saving off-ramp for the
The shutdown is now our government’s longest. Around 800,000 federal employees missed their first paycheck. 1/19 About 40 percent of Americans have said in surveys that they can't handle a surprise $400 expense. 2/19 Trump's national emergency gambit, an "obvious face-saving
Trump is considering using funds set aside for disaster relief projects in Puerto Rico, California, and Texas to pay for his border wall. “Siphoning funding from real disasters to pay for a crisis manufactured by the president is wholly unacceptable and the American people won’t fall for it.” Trump’
Trump is considering using funds set aside for disaster relief projects in Puerto Rico, California, and Texas to pay for his border wall. 1/17 “Siphoning funding from real disasters to pay for a crisis manufactured by the president is wholly unacceptable and the American people won’t fall for
Compared to 2017, fewer nations last year experienced a decline in democracy—and 48 countries even improved. "You respect our president, and you pray for our president." Inside a firearms training program for teachers. The President visits the southern border in Texas today accompanied by an unusual guest:
Compared to 2017, fewer nations last year experienced a decline in democracy—and 48 countries even improved. 1/14 "You respect our president, and you pray for our president." Inside a firearms training program for teachers. 2/14 The President visits the southern border in Texas today accompanied
Back in November, Mueller’s office accused Manafort of lying to investigators after agreeing to a plea deal, and now it’s known what he allegedly lied about: sharing public and private polling data related to the 2016 election with Russia. This new information was revealed to the public because
Back in November, Mueller’s office accused Manafort of lying to investigators after agreeing to a plea deal, and now it’s known what he allegedly lied about: sharing public and private polling data related to the 2016 election with Russia. 1/16 This new information was revealed to the
Depending on where you get your news, you might have been hearing a lot lately about telemedicine. What does it mean? There’s a lot to it, but the basic idea is that you get health care remotely, using technology to connect with health care providers and services from wherever
In a televised address tonight, Trump will make his case to Americans that a wall is necessary to combat a border crisis. (Or will he? Who even knows. There’s a lot of Fox News between now and then.) In 2014, the major networks refused to air an Obama address
In a televised address tonight, Trump will make his case to Americans that a wall is necessary to combat a border crisis. (Or will he? Who even knows. There’s a lot of Fox News between now and then.) 1/20 In 2014, the major networks refused to air an
The federal government shutdown continues, which President Trump has taken to calling it a “a strike.” Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is floating a 70 percent top tax rate. Some studies indicate she’s aiming too low. The men who run college football's biggest bowl games make millions of bucks organizing
The federal government shutdown continues, which President Trump has taken to calling “a strike.” 1/14 Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is floating a 70 percent top tax rate. Some studies indicate she’s aiming too low. 2/14 The men who run college football's biggest bowl games make millions of
In one of its first actions, the new House passed a bill to reopen the government—without funding the wall. Although the Senate passed a similar bill last month, McConnell says he won’t bring the new bill to a vote. Senate Republicans up for reelection are calling for an
In one of its first actions, the new House passed a bill to reopen the government—without funding the wall. Although the Senate passed similar legislation last month, McConnell says he won’t bring the new bill to a vote. 1/16 Senate Republicans up for reelection are calling for
The 116th US Congress begins today, with record numbers of women being sworn in, and Democrats taking control of the House, bringing with them an agenda that covers everything from infrastructure to voting rights to prescription drug prices to the ACA. Incoming House speaker Nancy Pelosi breaks with the Dept.
The 116th US Congress begins today, with record numbers of women being sworn in, and Democrats taking control of the House, bringing with them an agenda that covers everything from infrastructure to voting rights to prescription drug prices to the ACA. 1/21 Incoming House speaker Nancy Pelosi breaks with
We asked more than two dozen of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2018, and what were the least?
Following a mid-year checkpoint, catching up on the rest of 2018 with picks from the year in music.
TMN is going dark for the holidays and will resume publishing on January 2. As per custom, we post some of our favorite nonprofits and charities before we turn off the lights, as linked below. See you in the new year! CAST provides life-saving services to hundreds of human trafficking
TMN will resume publishing on January 2, 2019. As per custom, we like to share some of our favorite nonprofits and charities before we dim the lights. See you in the new year! CAST provides life-saving services to hundreds of human trafficking survivors each year. Border Angels fights for humane
Bowing to Trump's threats of a government shutdown if his wall isn't funded, the House passes a stopgap measure that includes $5 billion for the wall. Today the House bill heads to the Senate, where it's expected to fail, triggering a government shutdown. Trump
Bowing to Trump's threats of a government shutdown if his wall isn't funded, the House passes a stopgap measure that includes $5 billion for the wall. Right now the House bill is at the Senate, where it's expected to fail, triggering a government shutdown.
Trump stuns the rest of the government by declaring victory over ISIS and ordering a complete withdrawal from Syria. Such a move offers “a prime opportunity” for the Islamic State, Iran, and Russia. “Donald is right.” Putin backs Trump in somewhat intimate terms during a press conference. Speaking of Putin,
Trump stuns the rest of the government by declaring victory over ISIS and ordering a complete withdrawal from Syria. 1/17 Such a move offers “a prime opportunity” for the Islamic State, Iran, and Russia. 2/17 “Donald is right.” Putin backs Trump in somewhat intimate terms during a press
In a bipartisan vote of 87–12, the Senate passed landmark criminal justice legislation, already endorsed by Trump, that will reform “three strikes” sentences, mandatory minimums, and early release options. Michael Flynn's sentencing has been postponed after yesterday’s hearing went into unanticipated territory, in which the judge
In a bipartisan vote of 87-12, the Senate passed landmark criminal justice legislation, already endorsed by Trump, that will reform “three strikes” sentences, mandatory minimums, and early release options. 1/18 Michael Flynn’s sentencing has been postponed after yesterday’s hearing went into unanticipated territory, in which the judge
A new report finds Russian disinformation teams targeting Robert S. Mueller with sweeping campaigns to discredit the special counsel’s investigation. One tactic employed by the Kremlin-backed Internet Research Agency: an anti-masturbation hotline. Russian meddling found big wins on Instagram, with more than twice the audience engagement of Facebook. "
A new report finds Russian disinformation teams targeting Robert Mueller with sweeping campaigns to discredit the special counsel’s investigation. 1/20 One tactic employed by the Kremlin-backed Internet Research Agency: an anti-masturbation hotline. 2/20 Russian meddling found big wins on Instagram, with more than twice the audience engagement
The White House defends the Border Patrol in the exhaustion and dehydration death of a seven-year-old Guatemalan girl, placing blame on the child's father. Related: “US Border Patrol systematically destroyed water supplies left for migrants in desert.” At the current pace, the amount of US government debt accrued
The White House defends the Border Patrol in the exhaustion and dehydration death of a seven-year-old Guatemalan girl, placing blame on the child's father. 1/24 Related: “US Border Patrol systematically destroyed water supplies left for migrants in desert.” 2/24 At the current pace, the amount of
The Senate votes 56 to 41 to revoke—symbolically, mostly—American military support for Saudi Arabia's war in Yemen. The United States suffered 94 school shooting incidents in 2018, a near 60% increase on the previous high set in 2006. Meanwhile, US death row executions are at a
The Senate votes 56 to 41 to revoke—symbolically, mostly—American military support for Saudi Arabia's war in Yemen. 1/21 The United States suffered 94 school shooting incidents in 2018, a near 60% increase on the previous high set in 2006. 2/21 Meanwhile, US death row
Here it is: the shortlist, judges, commentators, and Zombie poll for the 2019 edition of the Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
Michael Cohen is sentenced to three years in prison for his role in committing crimes at Trump's direction and on Trump's behalf. Law experts say a tabloid publisher's admission yesterday that it paid off Playboy model Karen McDougal in order to influence the election
Michael Cohen is sentenced to three years in prison for his role in committing crimes at Trump’s direction and on Trump’s behalf. 1/23 Law experts say a tabloid publisher’s admission yesterday that it paid off Playboy model Karen McDougal in order to influence the election is
During an impromptu debate in the White House, Trump interrupts Nancy Pelosi 15 times (and still leaves angry over losing). Meanwhile Vice President Pence said nothing, prompting the best jokes. A new category of falsehood—“the Bottomless Pinocchio”—is created to accommodate Trump’s compulsive lying. Photographs of migrants getting
During an impromptu debate in the White House, Trump interrupts Nancy Pelosi 15 times (and still leaves angry over losing). 1/22 Meanwhile Vice President Pence said nothing, prompting the best jokes. 2/22 A new category of falsehood—“the Bottomless Pinocchio”—is created to accommodate Trump’s compulsive lying.
Responding to the yellow vest protests, Macron promises a minimum wage increase and other concessions, but many protestors view his speech as a charade. Ending days of assurance that a Brexit vote would happen today, Theresa May calls off the vote, and will try and negotiate a new deal with
Responding to the yellow vest protests, Macron promises a minimum wage increase and other concessions, but many protestors view his speech as a charade. 1/23 Ending days of assurance that a Brexit vote would happen today, Theresa May calls off the vote, and will try and negotiate a new
Yesterday's filings in the Russia investigation show that Trump directed Cohen to break campaign finance laws by making hush payments to Stormy Daniels and others, and that Mueller's office has evidence Manafort lied when he said he didn't facilitate connections between Russia and the
Yesterday’s filings in the Russia investigation show that Trump directed Cohen to break campaign finance laws by making hush payments to Stormy Daniels and others, and that Mueller’s office has evidence Manafort lied when he said he didn’t facilitate connections between Russia and the Trump campaign. 1/
With the race for California's 21st District now called for TJ Cox, Democrats secure a net gain of 40 House seats. Another midterm race yet to be called: North Carolina's Ninth District, where allegations of fraud may require a new election. Biden, Sanders, or Warren beating
With the race for California's 21st District now called for TJ Cox, Democrats secure a net gain of 40 House seats. 1/19 Another midterm race yet to be called: North Carolina's Ninth District, where allegations of fraud may require a new election. 2/19 Biden,
In what's being viewed as a significant escalation of the US-China trade war, Canada has arrested Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou—who is also the daughter of the company's founder—at the request of the US, though no charges have been made public. New clues in the
In what's being viewed as a significant escalation of the US-China trade war, Canada has arrested Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou—who is also the daughter of the company's founder—at the request of the US, though no charges have been made public. 1/19 New clues
Robert Mueller recommends that Michael Flynn, Trump’s former national security adviser, not get jail time because of his “substantial assistance.” Anticipation builds for Mueller's document dump on Friday, with news outlets trying to connect the dots in a bigger narrative. Why did Michael Cohen confess to everything?
Robert Mueller recommends that Michael Flynn, Trump’s former national security adviser, not get jail time because of his “substantial assistance.” 1/19 Anticipation builds for Mueller's document dump on Friday, with news outlets trying to connect the dots in a bigger narrative. 2/19 Why did Michael
The French government suspends a planned fuel tax increase in an effort to appease the yellow vests. A quick explainer on who are France’s yellow vest protesters, what do they want, and why do they pose a threat to Macron. A Republican says bye-bye to Paul Ryan—a disastrous
The French government suspends a planned fuel tax increase in an effort to appease the yellow vests. 1/22 A quick explainer on who are France’s yellow vest protesters, what they want, and why they pose a threat to Macron. 2/22 A Republican says bye-bye to Paul Ryan—
Former US President George H.W. Bush has died at 94. Often known for presiding over the end of the Cold War, Bush also began America's large-scale military involvement in Iraq, with Operation Desert Shield in 1990, which led to Operation Desert Storm the following year. There are
Former US President George H.W. Bush has died at 94. 1/21 Often known for presiding over the end of the Cold War, Bush also began America's large-scale military involvement in Iraq, with Operation Desert Shield in 1990, which led to Operation Desert Storm the following year.
Cohen’s guilty plea yesterday makes him number 33—and arguably the most significant person Mueller has charged. Worth noting? Mueller’s “witch hunt” is starting to cross a red line Trump once warned could prompt his firing: by probing his business empire. The number of witches and wiccans in
Cohen’s guilty plea yesterday makes him number 33—and arguably the most significant person Mueller has charged. 1/21 Worth noting? Mueller’s “witch hunt” is starting to cross a red line Trump once warned could prompt his firing: by probing his business empire. 2/21 The number of
In an unexpected hearing, former Trump fixer Michael Cohen pled guilty this morning to lying to Congress about Trump's business dealings in Moscow. Due to suicide and drug overdoses, American life expectancy continues to drop. It's the longest period of life expectancy decline in the US
In an unexpected hearing, former Trump fixer Michael Cohen pled guilty this morning to lying to Congress about Trump's business dealings in Moscow. 1/20 Due to suicide and drug overdoses, American life expectancy continues to drop. It's the longest period of life expectancy decline in
From airlines to beer to high-speed Internet access, competition is quickly dying in American capitalism. Joe Kennedy III sounds a lot like his grandfather Bobby in a speech responding to GM’s decision to cut 14,000 jobs. As of August, Democrats have a more positive image of socialism than
From airlines to beer to high-speed Internet access, competition is dying in American capitalism. 1/18 Joe Kennedy III sounds a lot like his grandfather Bobby in a speech responding to GM’s decision to cut 14,000 jobs. 2/18 As of August, Democrats have a more positive image
What had happened to so many of these working dads and moms, that they could see a girl freezing in a concrete room and laugh? How could these regular Americans tell a boy his fingers would be severed if he disobeyed? Where some seek to help, others are fine with
What had happened to so many of these working dads and moms, that they could see a girl freezing in a concrete room and laugh? How could these regular Americans tell a boy his fingers would be severed if he disobeyed? Where some seek to help, others are fine with
Jim Baker, once the top FBI lawyer, draws parallels between the Watergate road map and Trump's attempts to control the Russia investigation. A former White House counsel says Trump's voting fraud lies undermine voting rights and the Constitution—an impeachable offense. After 32 people in 11
Jim Baker, once the top FBI lawyer, draws parallels between the Watergate road map and Trump's attempts to control the Russia investigation. 1/19 A former White House counsel says Trump's voting fraud lies undermine voting rights and the Constitution—an impeachable offense. 2/19 After
Thanksgiving week started with four fatal shootings across the United States, killing 10 people in a matter of hours. A late Monday ruling requires the White House to allow migrants to seek asylum even if they enter the US between official crossings, i.e. illegally. San Francisco, Stockton and Sacramento
Thanksgiving week starts with four deadly shootings across the United States, killing 10 people in a matter of hours. 1/22 A late Monday ruling requires the White House to allow migrants to seek asylum even if they enter the US between official crossings, i.e. illegally. 2/22 San
In California, the Camp Fire has now killed at least 71 people and left more than 1,000 missing—and many residents say all the signs were there that something like this could happen. The CIA has concluded that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered Jamal Khashoggi's murder.
In California, the Camp Fire has now killed at least 71 people and left more than 1,000 missing—and many residents say all the signs were there that something like this could happen. 1/19 The CIA has concluded that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered Jamal Khashoggi'
US prosecutors inadvertently reveal in a recently unsealed court filing that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been charged. A new food truck in Washington, sponsored by MoveOn, is serving free ice cream with Mueller-related themes. A growing number of Conservative MPs submit letters expressing no confidence in Theresa May amid
US prosecutors inadvertently reveal in a recently unsealed court filing that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been charged. 1/17 A new food truck in Washington, sponsored by MoveOn, is serving free ice cream with Mueller-related themes. 2/17 A growing number of Conservative MPs submit letters expressing no confidence
Saudi Arabia claims an intelligence officer, not Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, ordered Jamal Khashoggi's murder, and has charged 11 individuals. What the bipartisan prison reform bill, which Trump says he will support, would do for current and future inmates. In an effort to curb the rise in
Saudi Arabia claims an intelligence officer, not Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, ordered Jamal Khashoggi's murder, and has charged 11 individuals. 1/20 What the bipartisan prison reform bill, which Trump says he will support, would do for current and future inmates. 2/20 In an effort to
A close reading of court filings and some snooping suggest that Mueller may have already subpoenaed the President. 1/17 The only thing that motivates Donald Trump is more Donald Trump. 2/17 The midterm elections that still haven't been decided, explained. 3/17 By exaggerating and lying
A close reading of court filings and some snooping suggest that Mueller may have already subpoenaed the President. The only thing that motivates Donald Trump is more Donald Trump. The midterm elections that still haven't been decided, explained. By exaggerating and lying about what transpired at the protest
As the death toll reaches 42 people, the Camp Fire in Northern California is now the deadliest fire in state history. Before and after photos from a block in Malibu that was destroyed by the Woolsey fire. A study finds that climate change has doubled the number of acres burned
As the death toll reaches 42 people, the Camp Fire in Northern California is now the deadliest fire in state history. 1/18 Before and after photos from a block in Malibu that was destroyed by the Woolsey fire. 2/18 A study finds that climate change has doubled the
Here are our favorite, Rooster-approved novels from 2018. In the coming weeks, we'll cull this list down to our final set of competitors for the 2019 Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
A late season wildfire swept through and destroyed Paradise, Calif., while 30,000 people fled for their lives. In 2016, California voted to outlaw high-capacity magazines, such as the one used in Thousand Oaks. A federal court said no. Black female politicians who won in 2018 are significant not only
A late season wildfire swept through and destroyed Paradise, Calif., while 30,000 people fled for their lives. 1/18 In 2016, California voted to outlaw high-capacity magazines, such as the one used in Thousand Oaks. A federal court said no. 2/18 Black female politicians who won in 2018
Some inside the Thousand Oaks, Calif., country bar attacked by a shooter were also at last year's Harvest music festival in Las Vegas. With the midterms over, the media is no longer breathlessly covering Republicans' racial-anxiety-stoking story of the migrant caravan, which has now arrived in Mexico
Some inside the Thousand Oaks, Calif., country bar attacked by a shooter were also at last year's Harvest music festival in Las Vegas. 1/18 With the midterms over, the media is no longer breathlessly covering Republicans' racial-anxiety-stoking story of the migrant caravan, which has now arrived
Jeff Sessions, ousted as Attorney General, is expected to be only the first Trump Cabinet member to go in a post-midterm shuffle. Hundreds of protests are planned across the US “to demand Acting U.S. Attorney General Matthew Whitaker recuse himself.” Some animations to help answer the question: So was
Jeff Sessions, ousted as Attorney General, is expected to be only the first Trump Cabinet member to go in a post-midterm shuffle. 1/18 Hundreds of protests planned across the US “to demand Acting US Attorney General Matthew Whitaker recuse himself.” 2/18 Some animations help answer the big question:
In yesterday's midterm elections in the US, Democrats took control of the House of Representatives, flipping many Republican-held districts that Hillary Clinton won in 2016. Among other victories, Democrats will now be able to prevent a repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Essential to recognize in the midterm
In yesterday's midterm elections in the US, Democrats took control of the House of Representatives, flipping many Republican-held districts that Hillary Clinton won in 2016. Among other victories, Democrats will now be able to prevent a repeal of the Affordable Care Act. 1/31 Essential to recognize in
It’s election day in the United States. A quick guide to your voting rights in case you’re turned away at the polls. “Accountability” and “the will of the majority” are things that elections cannot do. Vote anyway. Bad weather will greet many voters today. Republicans are happy to
It’s election day in the United States. A quick guide to your voting rights in case you’re turned away at the polls. 1/23 “Accountability” and “the will of the majority” are things that elections can't do. Vote anyway. 2/23 Bad weather will greet many
On Thursday, Trump directed troops deployed to the US-Mexico border to shoot if someone throws rocks at them, which former military officers confirmed is "an unlawful order." Here’s what Trump originally said: “They want to throw rocks at our military, our military fights back. We’re going
On Thursday, Trump directed troops deployed to the US-Mexico border to shoot if someone throws rocks at them, which former military officers confirmed is "an unlawful order." 1/18 Here’s what Trump originally said: “They want to throw rocks at our military, our military fights back. We’
The US will allow eight countries, including several Asian partners, to keep buying oil from Iran after it reimposes sanctions. John Bolton, the national security adviser, says he looks forward to the governments failing in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. One of the Koch brothers joins "a left-right coalition"
The US will allow eight countries, including several Asian partners, to keep buying oil from Iran after it reimposes sanctions. 1/16 The national security adviser says he looks forward to watching the governments fail in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. 2/16 One of the Koch brothers joins "a
Google employees around the world are staging a walkout today, protesting the company's handling of executives accused of sexual misconduct. See photos from the walkouts. The White House claims ISIS has been defeated, but an intelligence service in Iraq says the terror group has launched dozens of attacks
Google employees around the world are staging a walkout today, protesting the company's handling of executives accused of sexual misconduct. See photos from the walkouts. 1/21 The White House claims ISIS has been defeated, but an intelligence service in Iraq says the terror group has launched dozens
Thousands of Venezuelans make for Peru, fleeing their crashing nation, with hopes of acquiring residency before a deadline. How Trump's “birthright” idea went from the fringes of conservative thinking to the Oval Office. A company seemingly run by a pro-Trump conspiracy theorist offered to pay women to make
Thousands of Venezuelans make for Peru, fleeing their crashing nation, with hopes of acquiring residency before a deadline. 1/24 How the president's “birthright” idea went from the fringes of conservative thinking to the Oval Office. 2/24 A company seemingly run by a pro-Trump conspiracy theorist offered
In an interview, Trump says he intends to sign an executive order to change how the 14th Amendment is applied and end birthright citizenship. Expect the courts to decide whether this is unconstitutional. With the announcement it will deploy troops to the US-Mexico border, the US military will have more
In an interview, Trump says he intends to sign an executive order to change how the 14th Amendment is applied and end birthright citizenship. Expect the courts to decide whether this is unconstitutional. 1/29 With the announcement it will deploy troops to the US-Mexico border, the US military will
An incomplete list of the far-right attackers Trump has inspired since 2015. A survey of bombing suspect Cesar Sayoc's tweets answers many of the questions raised by the stickers on his van. The recent market tumble isn’t a crash: "It’s a reset." Meaning it&
An incomplete list of the far-right attackers Trump has inspired since 2015. 1/17 A survey of bombing suspect Cesar Sayoc's tweets answers many of the questions raised by the stickers on his van. 2/17 The recent market tumble isn’t a crash: "It’s a
The manhunt for the sender(s) of bombs to Trump critics focuses on South Florida. Meanwhile the FBI confirms an 11th package was addressed to Senator Booker. The good news about Trump using an iPhone that's being actively tapped by China: he's too ignorant to know
The manhunt for the sender(s) of bombs to Trump critics focuses on South Florida. 1/20 Meanwhile the FBI confirms an 11th package was addressed to Senator Booker. 2/20 The good news about Trump using an iPhone that's actively being tapped by China: he's
More critics of President Trump receive explosive devices in the mail. Despite his penchant for celebrating and inciting violence against his enemies, Trump presents himself as healer-in-chief and blames the media. Trump insists on using an unprotected iPhone to call friends. Intelligence sources confirm that China and Russia have been
More critics of President Trump receive explosive devices in the mail. 1/18 Despite his penchant for celebrating and inciting violence against his enemies, Trump presents himself as healer-in-chief and blames the media. 2/18 Trump insists on using an unprotected iPhone to call friends. China and Russia have been
Two days after a suspected explosive device was found near George Soros's home, other potential devices that appear related have been sent to the homes of the Clintons and Obamas and CNN's New York offices. This story is developing. A seventh child has died in an
Two days after a suspected explosive device was found near George Soros's home, other potential devices that appear related have been sent to the homes of the Clintons and Obamas and CNN's New York offices. This story is developing. 1/23 A seventh child has died
Turkey’s Erdogan says Khashoggi’s murder was a premeditated, meticulously planned political operation by Saudi Arabia. A brief explanation of “post-Salafi,” an emerging, amorphous category of Muslim thought derived partly from Wahhabism. President Trump and the Republicans settle on fear and falsehoods for their midterm-winning strategy. This includes suggesting
Turkey’s Erdogan says Khashoggi’s murder was a premeditated, meticulously planned political operation by Saudi Arabia. 1/23 A brief explanation of “post-Salafi,” an emerging, amorphous category of Muslim thought derived partly from Wahhabism. 2/23 President Trump and the Republicans settle on fear and falsehoods for their midterm-winning
The Saudi government now claims journalist Jamal Khashoggi was killed in a fistfight at the consulate in Istanbul. Five of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's officials have been fired, and 18 other Saudis have been arrested. Strong judge of character and probing thinker Donald Trump says he has
The Saudi government now claims journalist Jamal Khashoggi was killed in a fistfight at the consulate in Istanbul. Five of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's officials have been fired, and 18 other Saudis have been arrested. 1/20 Strong judge of character and probing thinker Donald Trump says
The CDC is warning against acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a polio-like illness that's appeared in children in 22 states this year. A caravan of about 2,000 Central American migrants is making its way to the US despite threats from Trump. Mexico has sent police to its southern
The CDC is warning against AFM, acute flaccid myelitis, a polio-like illness that's appeared in children in 22 states this year. 1/23 A caravan of about 2,000 migrants from Central America is making its way to the US despite threats from Trump. Mexico has sent police
US intelligence has more and more reason to believe Saudi Arabia's Prince Mohammed bin Salman was responsible for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The Post held off publishing it because we hoped Jamal would come back to us so that he and I could edit it together.
US intelligence has more and more reason to believe Saudi Arabia's Prince Mohammed bin Salman was responsible for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. 1/21 The Post held off publishing it because we hoped Jamal would come back to us so that he and I could edit
Thirteen million people in Yemen face starvation, what the UN says could become "the worst famine in the world in 100 years." Zimbabwe plunges into its worst economic crisis in a decade, complete with price spikes and product shortages. Canada becomes the second country after Uruguay to legalize
Thirteen million people in Yemen face starvation, what the UN says could become "the worst famine in the world in 100 years." 1/24 Zimbabwe plunges into its worst economic crisis in a decade, complete with price spikes and product shortages. 2/24 Canada becomes the second country
Sources claim the Saudis are preparing a report admitting Jamal Khashoggi was killed, and that his death happened during an interrogation. Cherokee Nation official responds to the Trump-Warren squabble over DNA results: "It really undermines tribal interest, frankly." “I had an encounter with a Native American on a
Sources claim the Saudis are preparing a report admitting Jamal Khashoggi was killed, and that his death happened during an interrogation. 1/20 Cherokee Nation official responds to the Trump-Warren squabble over DNA results: "It really undermines tribal interest, frankly." 2/20 “I had an encounter with a
Climate change is the only issue that matters. As the American midterms loom, candidates are failing to devise solutions. Trump's poison pills for China may not lead to a recession (for the US). However, "there sure are lots of poison pills out there!" Our current Senate
Climate change is the only issue that matters. But as the American midterms loom, candidates are failing to devise solutions. 1/18 Trump's poison pills for China may not lead to a recession (for the US). However, "there sure are lots of poison pills out there!"
Hurricane Michael has killed 12 people and left a path of destruction from Florida to Virginia. Georgia's Secretary of State, Brian Kemp, is under fire for delaying registrations for 53,000 voters—most of whom are African-American. The move reeks of voter suppression, as the Republican Kemp, who
Hurricane Michael has killed 12 people and left a path of destruction from Florida to Virginia. 1/22 Georgia's Secretary of State, Brian Kemp, is under fire for delaying registrations for 53,000 voters—most of whom are African-American. The move reeks of voter suppression, as the Republican
Hurricane Michael, with maximum sustained winds at 155 miles per hour, is close to a Category 5 storm, the most severe on the scale. "This is the worst storm the Florida Panhandle has seen in more than 100 years," said Florida Gov. Rick Scott. European shares fall to
Hurricane Michael, with maximum sustained winds of 155 miles per hour, is close to a Category 5 storm, the most severe on the scale. 1/23 "This is the worst storm the Florida Panhandle has seen in more than 100 years," said Florida Gov. Rick Scott. 2/23
In an unexpected move, Nikki Haley announces she will step down as US ambassador to the UN by the end of the year, and quells rumors of a presidential run. Set to make landfall today, Hurricane Michael could be the strongest-ever hurricane to reach the Florida panhandle. You can expect
In an unexpected move, Nikki Haley announces she will step down as US ambassador to the UN by the end of the year, and quells rumors of a presidential run. 1/17 Set to make landfall today, Hurricane Michael could be the strongest-ever hurricane to reach the Florida panhandle. 2/
A very good, awful, lucid list of facts from the last 10 days in Trump’s America, from pig manure to Canadian crabs. Christine Blasey Ford won't be able to go home for quite some time, says her lawyer, due to "unending" death threats. "How
A very good, awful, lucid list of facts from the last 10 days in Trump’s America, from pig manure to Canadian crabs. 1/17 Christine Blasey Ford can't go home for quite some time, says her lawyer, due to "unending" death threats. 2/17 "
With Sens. Collins and Manchin saying they'll vote "yes," the Senate is expected to confirm Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court today. Kavanaugh...will be the first justice nominated by someone who lost the popular vote to earn his seat on the bench with support from senators
With Sens. Collins and Manchin saying they'll vote "yes," the Senate is expected to confirm Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court today. 1/25 Kavanaugh...will be the first justice nominated by someone who lost the popular vote to earn his seat on the bench with support
The Senate, still “plowing ahead,” is scheduled to hold a procedural vote on Judge Brett Kavanaugh today. Among those who oppose Kavanaugh, you can count retired Justice John Paul Stevens, same for a trio of Kavanaugh’s drinking buddies at Yale. Supporters of Kavanaugh include pretty much the entire Republican
The Senate, still “plowing ahead,†is scheduled to hold a procedural vote on Judge Brett Kavanaugh today. 1/21 Among those who oppose Kavanaugh, you can count retired Justice John Paul Stevens, same for a trio of Kavanaugh’s drinking buddies at Yale. 2/21 Supporters of Kavanaugh
With the FBI report on Kavanaugh in senators' hands, Grassley says there's "no hint of misconduct"; Schumer disagrees. Ongoing updates here. The investigation's credibility is in question, mainly due to its extremely limited scope and timeline—and because the FBI ignored testimonies from
With the FBI report on Kavanaugh now in senators' hands, Grassley says there's "no hint of misconduct"; Schumer disagrees. Ongoing updates here. 1/30 The investigation's credibility is in question, mainly due to its extremely limited scope and timeline—and because the FBI
With three days left in the FBI investigation into allegations against Brett Kavanaugh, attorneys for Christine Blasey Ford say she still hasn't been contacted. A deep investigation into Trump’s fortune finds plenty of dubious tax schemes and "outright fraud." And now the New York Dept.
With three days left in the FBI investigation into allegations against Brett Kavanaugh, attorneys for Christine Blasey Ford say she still hasn't been contacted. 1/20 A deep investigation into Trump’s fortune finds plenty of dubious tax schemes and "outright fraud." And now the New
Texts between Kavanaugh and former classmates in the days before Deborah Ramirez's allegations went public in the New Yorker suggest he was lying when he testified the first he'd heard of her accusations was when the article was published. Here's the full list of
Texts between Kavanaugh and former classmates in the days before Deborah Ramirez's allegations went public in the New Yorker suggest he was lying when he testified the first he'd heard of her accusations was when the article was published. 1/23 Here's the full
Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation gets delayed by a week so the FBI can investigate sexual assault allegations. Meaning Trump has to eat his words. 1/25 Among the figures that pressed pause on Kavanaugh was his alma mater, Yale Law School. 2/25 A striking chart shows every time
Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation gets delayed by a week so the FBI can investigate sexual assault allegations. Meaning Trump has to eat his words. Among the voices that pressed pause on Kavanaugh was his alma mater, Yale Law School. A striking chart shows every time Ford and Kavanaugh dodged
The Senate Judiciary Committee votes at 1:30 pm. ET on Kavanaugh's Supreme Court nomination. If it passes, a full Senate vote could happen early next week. "Look at me and tell me that it doesn't matter." Sexual assault survivors this morning confronted Sen.
The Senate Judiciary Committee votes at 1:30 pm. ET on Kavanaugh's Supreme Court nomination. If it passes, a full Senate vote could happen early next week. 1/27 "Look at me and tell me that it doesn't matter." Sexual assault survivors this morning
Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and Christine Ford testify today before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Multiple news outlets are streaming it live online. The split between views of Democrats and Republicans on Kavanaugh’s nomination is even wider than the gulf on Trump’s border wall. Today, he needs to
Brett Kavanaugh and Christine Ford testify today before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Multiple news outlets are streaming it live online. 1/23 The split between views of Democrats and Republicans on Kavanaugh’s nomination is even wider than the gulf on Trump’s border wall. 2/23 Today, he needs
Republican senators have chosen Rachel Mitchell, chief of the special victims division of the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, to question Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Brett Kavanaugh in tomorrow's Senate hearing. "The move allows the 11 Republicans on the committee—all white men—to avoid the
Republican senators have chosen Rachel Mitchell, chief of the special victims division of the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, to question Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Brett Kavanaugh in tomorrow's Senate hearing. 1/23 The move allows the 11 Republicans on the committee—all white men—to avoid
Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and his wife go on television to protest his innocence, using a peculiar virginity defense. One alarming aspect of Kavanaugh’s appearance was how much it diverged “in tone and substance” from a letter he sent the same day to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Is
Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and his wife go on television to protest his innocence, using a peculiar virginity defense. 1/25 One alarming aspect of Kavanaugh’s appearance was how much it diverged “in tone and substance†from a letter he sent the same day to the Senate
There have been 262 mass shootings in America in the first 263 days of 2018. Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley says Dr. Christine Blasey Ford has until 2:30 p.m. ET today to decide whether to testify before Congress, or the vote to confirm Kavanaugh will proceed on Monday.
There have been 262 mass shootings in America in the first 263 days of 2018. 1/23 Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley says Dr. Christine Blasey Ford has until 2:30 p.m. ET today to decide whether to testify before Congress, or the vote to confirm Kavanaugh will proceed
The New York TImes publishes a timeline of Russia's hacking of the 2016 election and Trump's insistence that it's all a hoax. An excerpt from The Apprentice, a narrative history of Russia’s interference in the 2016 election. Lawyers for Dr. Ford start negotiations
The New York TImes publishes a timeline of Russia's hacking of the 2016 election and Trump's insistence that it's all a hoax. 1/20 An excerpt from The Apprentice, a narrative history of Russia’s interference in the 2016 election. 2/20 Lawyers for
At 2:18 p.m. Eastern Time today, American cell phone users will receive their first emergency "Presidential Alert" text message. And no, you can't opt out. Hurricane Trump headed to the Carolinas to wreak additional havoc on people's intelligence, including asking about whether
At 2:18 p.m. Eastern Time today, American cell phone users will receive their first emergency "Presidential Alert" text message. And no, you can't opt out. 1/23 Hurricane Trump headed to the Carolinas to wreak additional havoc on people's intelligence, including asking
Dr. Ford, accuser of Judge Kavanaugh, wants him investigated by the FBI before she testifies. Republicans refuse. Ford’s lawyers say she’s received death threats, her private email has been hacked, and she’s being impersonated online. “This has been a drive-by shooting when it comes to Kavanaugh,” says
Dr. Ford, accuser of Judge Kavanaugh, wants him investigated by the FBI before she testifies. Republicans refuse. 1/23 Ford’s lawyers say she’s received death threats, her private email has been hacked, and she’s being impersonated online. 2/23 “This has been a drive-by shooting when
The Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a public hearing on Monday to hear testimony from Christine Ford and Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh on allegations of sexual assault. The Senate vote on Kavanaugh, which was scheduled for Thursday, has now been put on hold. Lawyers say the delays and discrepancies
The Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a public hearing on Monday to hear testimony from Christine Ford and Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh on allegations of sexual assault. The Senate vote on Kavanaugh, which was scheduled for Thursday, has now been put on hold. 1/22 Lawyers say the delays
At least five people have died, and nearly a million people are without power in the Carolinas after Hurricane Florence made landfall yesterday. Only seven of the 27 US counties where midterm toss-up races are occurring have confirmed they've implemented two-factor authentication on their election offices' email
At least five people have died, and nearly a million people are without power in the Carolinas after Hurricane Florence made landfall yesterday. 1/15 Only seven of the 27 US counties where midterm toss-up races are occurring have confirmed they've implemented two-factor authentication on their election offices&
Hurricane Florence makes landfall in North Carolina. Despite slowing winds, the threat of storm surges has not diminished. North Carolina may now be forced to reconsider a law that banned using sea level rise to forecast coastal planning. Track rising water in North Carolina with a tool that serves data
Hurricane Florence makes landfall in North Carolina. Despite slowing winds, the threat of storm surges has not diminished. 1/22 North Carolina may now be forced to reconsider a law that banned using sea level rise to forecast coastal planning. 2/22 Track rising water in North Carolina with a
Massive damage in the Carolinas is expected as Hurricane Florence makes landfall today through tomorrow. Just because Florence has been downgraded to a Category 2 doesn't make it any less dangerous. Wind speed doesn't matter as much as the size of the wind field. This morning
Massive damage in the Carolinas is expected as Hurricane Florence makes landfall today through tomorrow. 1/18 Just because Florence has been downgraded to a Category 2 doesn't make it any less dangerous. Wind speed doesn't matter as much as the size of the wind field.
Hurricane Florence, still a Category 4, is expected to slow down at the coast of the Carolinas through at least Saturday, increasing the likelihood of dangerous flooding. This seems unnecessary, but: a fact-check of Trump's claim that "Puerto Rico was an incredible, unsung success." A photographer
Hurricane Florence, still a Category 4, is expected to slow down at the coast of the Carolinas through at least Saturday, increasing the likelihood of dangerous flooding. 1/18 This seems unnecessary, but: a fact-check of Trump's claim that "Puerto Rico was an incredible, unsung success."
Bracing for an increasingly dangerous Hurricane Florence, more than a million people may face mandatory evacuation in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. If public housing is the physical manifestation of a hope for social progress, that hope has its own historical twist in the United States. Nine of the
Bracing for an increasingly dangerous Hurricane Florence, more than a million people may face mandatory evacuation in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. 1/22 If public housing is the physical manifestation of a hope for social progress, that hope has its own historical twist in the United States. Nine
Please note: We’re taking next week off, and we’ll back on Monday, Sept. 10. See you then! Half a million people have been killed in Syria's seven-year war. Signs suggest a massive final battle is coming. Immigration officials say that birth certificates aren't enough
Please note: We’re taking next week off, and we’ll back on Monday, Sept. 10. See you then! Half a million people have been killed in Syria's seven-year war. Signs suggest a massive final battle is coming. 1/14 Immigration officials say that birth certificates aren'
Canada and the US inch closer to a NAFTA 2.0 deal for Trump’s Friday deadline. For what it’s worth, the Friday deadline isn’t actually real. Thanks to Trump, teenagers appear to be more interested in current events, but also more skeptical of the press. Sixty percent
Canada and the US inch closer to a NAFTA 2.0 deal for Trump’s Friday deadline. 1/19 For what it’s worth, the Friday deadline isn’t actually real. 2/19 Thanks to Trump, teenagers appear to be more interested in current events, but also more skeptical of
Bipartisan members of Congressencourage the president to impose sanctions on Beijing for incarcerating millions of Uyghur Muslims in “training centers.” The White House has reportedlycreateda secret task force to sabotage public support for marijuana. More evidence that Trump may have obstructed justice: disclosures about the White House doing nothing about
Bipartisan members of Congress encourage the president to impose sanctions on Beijing for incarcerating millions of Uyghur Muslims in “training centers.†1/24 The White House has reportedly created a secret task force to sabotage public support for marijuana. 2/24 More evidence that Trump possibly obstructed justice:
It's the end of the summer, the readers have spoken, and we have a winner.
California’s Assembly passes a bill requiring 100% of the state’s electricity to come from carbon-free sources by 2045. A federal court rules that North Carolina Republicans illegally gerrymandered their congressional districts. Southern senators resist renaming a federal building for McCain. It currently honors a senator who led the
California’s Assembly passes a bill requiring 100% of the state’s electricity to come from carbon-free sources by 2045. 1/24 A federal court rules that North Carolina Republicans illegally gerrymandered their congressional districts. 2/24 Southern senators resist renaming a federal building for McCain that currently honors a
Trump and Mexico reach a deal on NAFTA, now re-dubbed the US Mexico Trade Agreement, putting pressure on Canada. Voters head to the polls in Florida, Arizona, and Oklahoma to pick general election candidates. Taiwan, oddly enough, has become a pioneer in digital democracy with a crowdsourcing platform called vTaiwan.
Trump and Mexico reach a deal on NAFTA, re-dubbed the US Mexico Trade Agreement, putting pressure on Canada. 1/22 Voters head to the polls in Florida, Arizona, and Oklahoma to pick general election candidates. 2/22 Taiwan, oddly enough, has become a pioneer in digital democracy with a crowdsourcing
Hi, this is Andrew and Rosecrans from The Morning News. We’re trying to get better about doing this, but we just wanted to take a moment to thank our Sustaining Members for their generosity in making the TMN Headlines and the Tournament of Books possible. And if you’re
Across North America, prisoners are striking over treatment and forced labor that amounts to modern slavery. Since 2010, at least 404 people with mental illness have died in US jails—which are now "default treatment centers." The US Dept. of Education is considering exploiting federal student health and
Across North America, prisoners are striking over treatment and forced labor that amounts to modern slavery. 1/22 Since 2010, at least 404 people with mental illness have died in US jails—which are now "default treatment centers." 2/22 The US Dept. of Education is considering exploiting
Hurricane Lane has weakened, but it’s still expected to be hazardous in Hawaii over the next couple of days. 1/18 A week of chaos continues in Australia’s government. It’s nothing new: The past decade has been marked “by a series of leadership coups.†2/
Hurricane Lane has weakened, but it’s still expected to be hazardous in Hawaii over the next couple of days. A week of chaos continues in Australia’s government. It’s nothing new: The past decade has been marked “by a series of leadership coups.” President Trump’s smash-mouth tactics
Trump's tweet about the murder of South African farmers—which are at a 20-year low—and land expropriation is a popular conspiracy theory among white nationalists who want to push the threat of "white genocide." The close of trading in New York yesterday officially marked the
Trump's tweet about the murder of South African farmers—which are at a 20-year low—and land expropriation is a popular conspiracy theory among white nationalists who want to push the threat of "white genocide." 1/18 The close of trading in New York yesterday officially
In a dizzying day of news, Manafort is found guilty, Michael Cohen implicates the President, and the White House says there’s nothing to see here. The President, Donald Trump: “If anyone is looking for a good lawyer, I would strongly suggest that you don’t retain the services of
It's the second-to-last week of the 2018 Rooster Summer Reading Challenge, which means two big things: Novelist Emma Straub decides between August's two books and the commentariat votes for the book of the summer.
In a dizzying day of news, Manafort is found guilty, Michael Cohen implicates the President, and the White House says there’s nothing to see here. 1/22 The President, Donald Trump: “If anyone is looking for a good lawyer, I would strongly suggest that you don’t retain
Last night, protesters on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill tore down the "Silent Sam" Confederate statue. In 2017, UNC spent $390,000 on the monument's security. Microsoft announces the capture of six websites created by Russian cyberattackers. The sites appear
Last night, protesters on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill tore down the "Silent Sam" Confederate statue. In 2017, UNC spent $390,000 on the monument's security. 1/19 Microsoft announces the capture of six websites created by Russian cyberattackers. The
Torrential flooding in the southern Indian state of Kerala kills more than 320 people. More rains are predicted. Yet another problem caused by climate change: “border water.” The White House intends to make it much easier to let the coal industry set its own rules on carbon pollution. Trump'
Torrential flooding in the southern Indian state of Kerala kills more than 320 people. More rains are predicted. 1/18 Yet another problem caused by climate change: “border water.†2/18 The White House intends to make it much easier to let the coal industry set its own
“When that lady sits down at the piano and gets her body and soul all over some righteous song, she’ll scare the shit out of you. And you’ll know—you’ll swear—that she’s still the best fuckin’ singer this fucked-up country has ever produced.” Much has
“When that lady sits down at the piano and gets her body and soul all over some righteous song, she’ll scare the shit out of you. And you’ll know—you’ll swear—that she’s still the best fuckin’ singer this fucked-up country has ever produced.â€
More than 70 people overdosed in New Haven, CT, on K2, a synthetic cannabinoid that may have been laced with fentanyl. More than 72,000 Americans died last year from drug overdoses, a 10% increase over 2016. America has a physician shortage. One solution: let students complete school and see
More than 70 people overdosed in New Haven, CT, on K2, a synthetic cannabinoid that may have been laced with fentanyl. 1/21 More than 72,000 Americans died last year from drug overdoses, a 10% increase over 2016. 2/21 America has a physician shortage. One solution: let students
“For many of us, those earlier stories happened someplace else, someplace away. Now we know the truth: It happened everywhere.” The grand jury on the sexual abuse investigation of six Pennsylvania dioceses delivers a horrifying report. Thirty-nine people died yesterday when a highway bridge in Genoa, Italy, collapsed, sending approximately
We're in the home stretch of the 2018 Rooster Summer Reading Challenge, as we begin our final book of the season: The Friend by Sigrid Nunez. We’re again joined by our August judge, Emma Straub, in conversation with Nozlee Samadzadeh.
“For many of us, those earlier stories happened someplace else, someplace away. Now we know the truth: It happened everywhere.†The grand jury on the sexual abuse investigation of six Pennsylvania dioceses delivers a horrifying report. 1/23 Thirty-nine people died yesterday when a highway bridge in Genoa,
Vanguard says the chances of a recession by late 2020 have risen to between 30 and 40 percent. A path forward for the GOP: Running candidates in cities like San Diego who are focused on what locals really care about. White House aides often tell President Trump not to call
Vanguard says the chances of a recession by late 2020 have risen to between 30 and 40 percent. 1/29 White House aides often tell President Trump not to call foreign leaders at odd hours due to time zone differences. 2/29 Donald Trump hires the worst people, according to
Horror at Charlottesville did not temper the president’s enthusiasm for demonizing religious and ethnic minorities that characterized his 2016 campaign, and has not dampened his administration’s efforts to turn those convictions into policy. Charlottesville proved that white nationalists are winning within the Republican Party. Twitter suspends various accounts
Horror at Charlottesville did not temper the president’s enthusiasm for demonizing religious and ethnic minorities that characterized his 2016 campaign, and has not dampened his administration’s efforts to turn those convictions into policy. Charlottesville proved that white nationalists are winning within the Republican Party. 1/20 Twitter suspends
Washington, D.C., prepares for a rally tomorrow of Neo-Nazis, white supremacists, and other alt-right-ers. 1/22 American and Confederate flags are permitted at the rally. Nazi flags, unlike last year, are not. 2/22 John Bolton and other senior US national-security officials worked behind Trump’s back to shield
Washington prepares for a rally tomorrow of Neo-Nazis, white supremacists, and other alt-right-ers. American flags and Confederate flags are permitted at the rally. Nazi flags, unlike last year, are not. John Bolton and other senior US national-security officials worked behind Trump’s back to shield a NATO agreement. The ghost
In a 38-31 vote, Argentina's senate rejects a bill to legalize abortion in the first 14 weeks of pregnancy. Behind the scenes on Rep. Chris Collins and Innate Immunotherapeutics, and how he roped in his family and colleagues to invest and, according to prosecutors, engage in insider trading
In a 38-31 vote, Argentina's senate rejects a bill to legalize abortion in the first 14 weeks of pregnancy. 1/20 Behind the scenes on Rep. Chris Collins and Innate Immunotherapeutics, and how he roped in his family and colleagues to invest and, according to prosecutors, engage in
It's the final month in the 2018 Rooster Summer Reading Challenge. Novelist Emma Straub and our own Nozlee Samadzadeh wrap up their discussion of Kudos by Rachel Cusk.
Tuesday night ended with Republican Troy Balderson narrowly ahead in an Ohio district that Trump previously won by 11 points. CNN says it’s time for Republicans to panic about the House. The Democrats’ most liberal candidates fared poorly in almost every closely watched race across several states. At least
Tuesday night ended with Republican Troy Balderson narrowly ahead in an Ohio district that Trump previously won by 11 points. 1/23 CNN says it’s time for Republicans to panic about the House. 2/23 The Democrats’ most liberal candidates fared poorly in almost every closely watched race across
Today's special election in Ohio's 12th District is the final Democrat challenge to a Republican stronghold ahead of the midterms. And in today's Democratic primaries across four states, progressive candidates will test how far left some Democrats are ready to go. "The rate
Today's special election in Ohio's 12th District is the final Democrat challenge to a Republican stronghold ahead of the midterms. And in today's Democratic primaries across four states, progressive candidates will test how far left some Democrats are ready to go. 1/17 "
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson may have lost his job because he fought too hard to prevent Saudi Arabia from invading Qatar. Looking at Zimbabwe's election, Mnangagwa has one clear backer: China. He likely admires Xi Jinping's grip on power. Hong Kong has less than 30
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson may have lost his job because he fought too hard to prevent Saudi Arabia from invading Qatar. 1/21 Looking at Zimbabwe's election, Mnangagwa has one clear backer: China. He likely admires Xi Jinping's grip on power. 2/21 Hong Kong
It’s time other newsrooms learn to spot these hateful campaigns for what they are. In a message of support for writer Sarah Jeong, The Verge calls on publications to stand up to trolls who seek only to "waste our time by debating their malicious agenda." In yesterday&
It’s not at all uncommon for couples to choose to work with a marriage counselor—and not all couples resort to this step when their relationships have hit rock bottom. Even in the strongest of relationships, seeing a therapist can offer benefits. Over the past 25 years, the practice
It’s time other newsrooms learn to spot these hateful campaigns for what they are. In a message of support for writer Sarah Jeong, The Verge calls on publications to stand up to trolls who seek only to "waste our time by debating their malicious agenda." 1/15
The Manafort trial sees much talk of expensive cars, clothes, and furnishings, none of Manafort’s work running Trump’s campaign. Day three is likely to be another day “heavy on documents and details.” After the President tells the Attorney General to shut down the Mueller probe, his lawyers scramble
The Manafort trial sees much talk of expensive cars, clothes, and furnishings, none of Manafort’s work running Trump’s campaign. 1/21 Day three is likely to be another day “heavy on documents and details.†2/21 After the President tells the Attorney General to shut down
The 2020 electoral map is looking markedly different than in prior races—states rarely in play suddenly are. Depending on your 2016 electoral map visualization, you can argue America's heading left, right, or nowhere. Jokes about a House candidate's Bigfoot erotica proclivity hide the fact that
It's a new month in the 2018 Rooster Summer Reading Challenge. This week we welcome a new judge, Emma Straub, who will be in conversation all month long with Nozlee Samadzadeh. First up: Kudos by Rachel Cusk.
The 2020 electoral map is looking markedly different than in prior races—states rarely in play suddenly are. 1/26 Depending on your 2016 electoral map visualization, you can argue America's heading left, right, or nowhere. 2/26 Jokes about a House candidate's Bigfoot erotica proclivity
The first trial of Mueller’s Russia investigation begins today with former Trump campaign chair Paul Manafort. It’s widely believed, including by the judge, that Mueller is pressuring Manafort to flip on Trump. The difference between “collusion” and “conspiracy” is mostly semantics—and Rudy Giuliani knows as much, no
The first trial of Mueller’s Russia investigation begins today with former Trump campaign chair Paul Manafort. 1/24 It’s widely believed, including by the judge, that Mueller is pressuring Manafort to flip on Trump. 2/24 The difference between “collusion†and “conspiracy†is mostly semantics—and
With 2018 a little more than half over, a check-in on the year's best long-player recordings.
Twelve legal experts on whether Trump obstructed justice, in light of Cohen's claims the president knew about the 2016 Trump Tower meeting: If true, it's likely obstruction. The GOP tax cuts have lowered corporate taxes so much, and so quickly, that the federal budget deficit is
Twelve legal experts on whether Trump obstructed justice, in light of Cohen's claims the president knew about the 2016 Trump Tower meeting: If true, it's likely obstruction. 1/16 The GOP tax cuts have lowered corporate taxes so much, and so quickly, that the federal budget
On Friday night, much of the world will see a blood moon during the 21st century’s longest lunar eclipse. Facing pressure from China, US airlines like American, Delta, and United no longer say Taiwan. Portugal may not be an anti-austerity story, but it shows that "positive real shocks&
On Friday night, much of the world will see a blood moon during the 21st century’s longest lunar eclipse. 1/22 Facing pressure from China, US airlines like American, Delta, and United no longer say Taiwan. 2/22 Portugal may not be an anti-austerity story, but it shows that
Today's Headlines edition is sponsored by Jamf Now. The White House banned CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins from a press conference yesterday, claiming she asked Trump inappropriate questions—about Cohen and the tapes—at a photo op earlier in the day. Journalists who were there say the questions were
{image-1} Jamf Now is a device management solution for the iPad, iPhone, and Mac devices at work. We make management tasks simple and affordable, so you can support your users—no IT required. Create your free account! * * * Trying to configure devices without a mobile device management (MDM) solution can take
Today's Headlines edition is sponsored by Jamf Now. CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins was banned from a White House press conference yesterday, claiming she asked Trump inappropriate questions—about Cohen and the tapes—at a photo op earlier in the day. Journalists who were there say the questions were
CNN obtains the tape where Trump and Cohen discuss a payoff for Karen McDougal. One of the big unanswered questions about the tape: What is “the Charleston thing?” Trump pulls an Obi-Wan, tells a rally in Kansas City, "What you are seeing and what you are reading is not
We wrap up our July reading with the conclusion of Census—plus, this month's judges, Kelly McEvers and Nathan Deuel, make the call on which book heads to our end-of-summer finale.
CNN obtains the tape where Trump and Cohen discuss a payoff for Karen McDougal. 1/19 One of the big unanswered questions about the tape: What is “the Charleston thing?†2/19 Trump pulls an Obi-Wan, tells a rally in Kansas City, "What you are seeing and
Satellite images show North Korea has begun dismantling its main missile launch test sites, though probably not due to negotiations with the US. According to one analyst: "This is consistent with North Korea's public line, which is that its successful test program is now transitioning to mass
Satellite images show North Korea has begun dismantling its main missile launch test sites, though probably not due to negotiations with the US. According to one analyst: "This is consistent with North Korea's public line, which is that its successful test program is now transitioning to mass
None of the various hypotheses for Trump being a Russian pawn quite pan out—which still leaves collusion as a possibility. It's not inconceivable Russia would aid Democrats in 2018—in order to give Trump a reelection punching bag. Republicans are actively eroding public health care, which could
None of the various hypotheses for Trump being a Russian pawn quite pan out—which still leaves collusion as a possibility. 1/22 It's not inconceivable Russia would aid Democrats in 2018—in order to give Trump a reelection punching bag. 2/22 Republicans are actively eroding public
Ethiopia and Eritrea declare an end to 20 years of conflict after "an impressive combined effort by the international community." The Director of National Intelligence expresses mild surprise at news that Putin is coming to America just in time for this year’s midterms. The White House promptly
Ethiopia and Eritrea declare an end to 20 years of conflict after "an impressive combined effort by the international community." 1/18 The Director of National Intelligence expresses mild surprise at news that Putin is coming to America just in time for this year’s midterms. The White
Thousands of Amazon employees across Europe commemorated Prime Day by going on strike to protest grueling working conditions. This summer's heatwave is revealing forgotten landscapes in the UK normally kept hidden by grass and crops. Absent serious reductions in global emissions, the most extreme, once-in-25-years heat waves would
Thousands of Amazon employees across Europe commemorated Prime Day by going on strike to protest grueling working conditions. 1/15 This summer's heatwave is revealing forgotten landscapes in the UK normally kept hidden by grass and crops. 2/15 Absent serious reductions in global emissions, the most extreme,
Trump backtracks on his presser with Putin, says he meant to say the opposite of what he said with regard to whether he believes Russia interfered with the 2016 election. To better understand what Trump really said or actually meant, here's our annotated version of the transcript. To
It's the second book in our July matchup, Census by Jesse Ball, and we're back in conversation with our July judges, Kelly McEvers and Nathan Deuel.
Trump backtracks on his presser with Putin, says he meant to say the opposite of what he said with regard to whether he believes Russia interfered with the 2016 election. 1/21 To better understand what Trump really said or actually meant, below is our annotated version of the transcript.
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President Trump backed Vladimir Putin on the subject of hacking US elections and many people expressed alarm. Video: President Trump kicked off his Putin summit with a friendly wink. Even Newt Gingrich said Trump siding with the Kremlin against his own government was “the most serious mistake of his presidency.
President Trump backed the Kremlin on the subject of hacking US elections. Many people expressed alarm. 1/22 Even Newt Gingrich said Trump siding with Russia against his own government was “the most serious mistake of his presidency.†2/22 Dictionary.com trolled Trump with a "traitor&
As if asking foreign agents to hack his political opponent—which in fact happened that very same day—wasn't bad enough, a royal etiquette expert (and former royal butler) confirms the internet's fears that yes, Trump broke protocol by standing in front of the Queen. One
As if asking foreign agents to hack his political opponent—which in fact happened that very same day—wasn't bad enough, a royal etiquette expert (and former royal butler) confirms the internet's fears that yes, Trump broke protocol by standing in front of the Queen. 1/
I truly believe that today’s hearing is just another victory notch in Putin’s belt and another milestone in our enemies’ campaign to tear America apart. From FBI agent Peter Strzok’s statement before Congress. The meeting quickly degenerated. Brett Kavanaugh will face tough questions in the Senate. Some
I truly believe that today’s hearing is just another victory notch in Putin’s belt and another milestone in our enemies’ campaign to tear America apart. From FBI agent Peter Strzok’s statement before Congress. The meeting quickly degenerated. 1/17 Brett Kavanaugh will face tough questions in the
A thorough, 17-day timeline of the trapped Thai soccer team's ordeal. US Embassy warns Americans in London to "keep a low profile" during Trump's visit—it's standard protocol, but still. NFL Players Association files a grievance over the National Anthem rule, stating
A thorough, 17-day timeline of the trapped Thai soccer team's ordeal. 1/16 US Embassy warns Americans in London to "keep a low profile" during Trump's visit—it's standard protocol, but still. 2/16 NFL Players Association files a grievance over the
This week, we finish off the first book in our July matchup, Circe by Madeline Miller, welcoming back this month's judges, Kelly McEvers and Nathan Deuel.
Torrential rain storms have killed at least 176 in Japan. More than 50 people are still unaccounted for. Three reasons why the US is vulnerable to big disasters: coastal populations; problematic access to cash; troubled supply chains. As President Trump’s trade war rolls on, Japan and the EU agree
Torrential rain storms have killed at least 176 in Japan. More than 50 people are still unaccounted for. 1/21 Three reasons why the US is vulnerable to big disasters: coastal populations; problematic access to cash; troubled supply chains. 2/21 As President Trump’s trade war rolls on, Japan
All 12 members of the Wild Boar soccer team and their coach have been rescued from the cave in Thailand. Overnight, Theresa May hired a new cabinet after Boris Johnson and David Davis quit over May’s plan for a soft Brexit—and the discord in her party may spark
All 12 members of the Wild Boar soccer team and their coach have been rescued from the cave in Thailand. 1/20 Overnight, Theresa May hired a new cabinet after Boris Johnson and David Davis quit over May’s plan for a soft Brexit—and the discord in her party
After two days of talks in Pyongyang, Pompeo deemed them "productive"; North Korea, on the other hand, called the meetings "regrettable." Interactive tools show which companies in each US state are profiting from ICE. The fourth step in thinking of zero—that is thinking of zero
After two days of talks in Pyongyang, Pompeo deemed them "productive"; North Korea, on the other hand, called the meetings "regrettable." 1/14 Interactive tools show which companies in each US state are profiting from ICE. 2/14 The fourth step in thinking of zero—that
Secretary of State Pompeo visits North Korea to talk denuclearization. Kim Jong Un’s program is still going strong. Mueller begins to outsource his widening investigation, with surprising court fights tying up resources. Alan Dershowitz likens party chatter around Martha's Vineyard this summer to McCarthyism in the 1950s.
Secretary of State Pompeo visits North Korea to talk denuclearization. Kim Jong Un’s program is still going strong. 1/19 Mueller begins to outsource his widening investigation, with surprising court fights tying up resources. 2/19 Alan Dershowitz likens party chatter around Martha's Vineyard this summer to
It's a new month in the 2018 Rooster Summer Reading Challenge. We welcome our July judges, Kelly McEvers and Nathan Deuel, and discuss the first half of Madeline Miller's Circe.
A New York Times reporter tracks the many payments made on a migrant’s journey from El Salvador to the United States. See also: Photographs of items taken from migrants crossing the United States border with Mexico. Merkel saves her government with an immigration deal, compromising her welcoming policy toward
A New York Times reporter tracked the payments made (and iPhone apps used) on a migrant’s journey from El Salvador to the United States. 1/21 Photographs of items taken from migrants crossing the US border with Mexico. 2/21 Merkel saves her government with an immigration deal, compromising
Tomorrow, Mexico votes for a new president. All four candidates are strongly anti-Trump—and the frontrunner, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, is a leftist populist. Inside one of the fake news operations—of which hundreds apparently exist—trying to swing Mexico's elections. To support the Capital Gazette, a journalist
Tomorrow, Mexico votes for a new president. All four candidates are strongly anti-Trump—and the frontrunner, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, is a leftist populist. 1/17 Inside one of the fake news operations—of which hundreds apparently exist—trying to swing Mexico's elections. 2/17 To
About 575 people, mostly women, were arrested in Washington D.C. while protesting Trump’s immigration policy. In the run-up to his new summit with Putin, Trump says once again Russia probably didn’t hack our election in his favor. Ten reasons why this is the best time ever to
About 575 people, mostly women, were arrested in Washington D.C. while protesting Trump’s immigration policy. 1/20 In the run-up to his new summit with Putin, Trump says once again Russia probably didn’t hack our election in his favor. 2/20 Ten reasons why this is the
Justice Anthony Kennedy, the Supreme Court's swing vote, plans to retire, enabling Trump to establish a conservative court. Kennedy has long been considered "the most powerful man in America.” Multiple experts explain why. An America after Anthony Kennedy looks significantly different from America before. The movement against
Justice Anthony Kennedy, the Supreme Court's swing vote, plans to retire, enabling Trump to establish a conservative court. 1/14 Kennedy has long been considered "the most powerful man in America.†Multiple experts explain why. 2/14 An America after Anthony Kennedy looks significantly different from
We finished our second book of the summer, An American Marriage by Tayari Jones, which means it's time for novelist Laura van den Berg to choose our first victor.
President Trump's third version of a travel ban survived the Supreme Court, limiting citizens of eight nations from entering the US. One good thing about the Supreme Court’s ruling: it removed a very powerful gun—Korematsu—out of Donald Trump’s hands. Mitch McConnell would like to
President Trump's third version of a travel ban survived the Supreme Court, limiting citizens of eight nations from entering the US. 1/27 One good thing about that: The Supreme Court’s ruling took a very powerful gun—Korematsu—out of Donald Trump’s hands. 2/27 Mitch
US border patrol pauses criminal prosecution referrals—and therefore family separation—for those illegally entering the US with children. You know Auschwitz isn't going to be for you. Filipino author Rin Chupeco's Twitter thread on calls for civility amid Marcos's rise to autocracy. Supreme
US border patrol pauses criminal prosecution referrals—and therefore family separation—for those illegally entering the US with children. 1/16 You know Auschwitz isn't going to be for you. Filipino author Rin Chupeco's Twitter thread on calls for civility amid Marcos's rise to
President Trump issued an executive order to end his policy of separating families, but the government still has no plan for returning the children it has already taken. The Guardian printed the names of 34,361 refugees who died trying to make the journey to Europe. Traveling across the Sahara,
President Trump issued an executive order to end his policy of separating families, but the government still has no plan for returning the children it has already taken. 1/18 The Guardian printed the names of 34,361 refugees who died trying to make the journey to Europe. 2/18
This week Trump repealed Obama's executive order that protected oceans and the Great Lakes, opening the door to industry and drilling. Health and Human Services asks the Pentagon to ready three military bases to house up to 20,000 migrant children. It's true: There's
This week Trump repealed Obama's executive order that protected oceans and the Great Lakes, opening the door to industry and drilling. 1/21 Health and Human Services asks the Pentagon to ready three military bases to house up to 20,000 migrant children. 2/21 It's
President Trump abandoned his policy of removing migrant children from their parents’ care. The White House changed its story no fewer than 14 times before ending its border policy. “If kids don’t eat in peace, you don’t eat in peace.” Protesters confronted the Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen
President Trump abandoned his policy of removing migrant children from their parents’ care. 1/22 The White House changed its story no fewer than 14 times before ending its border policy. 2/22 “If kids don’t eat in peace, you don’t eat in peace.†Protesters confronted
Perhaps you've already heard it, but here are the sounds of crying migrant children as they're separated from their families at the US-Mexico border. Right now, my six-year-old is excited to see what the tooth fairy will leave him for one of his bottom front teeth
We start our second book of the summer, An American Marriage by Tayari Jones, in conversation with novelists Laura van den Berg and Rosecrans Baldwin.
Perhaps you've already heard it, but here are the sounds of crying migrant children as they're separated from their families at the US-Mexico border. Right now, my six-year-old is excited to see what the tooth fairy will leave him for one of his bottom front teeth
Free speech advocates are cheered by a judge’s ruling to allow a white nationalist to sue Twitter. The US Supreme Court delays making a decision on gerrymandering. The head of an asylum nonprofit in Houston relates what she’s seeing in border detention facilities. Inside an old South Texas
The US Supreme Court delays making a decision on gerrymandering. 1/24 Free speech advocates cheer a judge’s ruling to allow a white nationalist to sue Twitter. 2/24 The head of an asylum nonprofit in Houston relates what she’s seeing in border detention facilities. 3/24 Inside
A trade war between the US and China looms once again. Following a brief truce in May, the White House launches new tariffs on Chinese goods, and Beijing responds with more retaliatory tariffs. While many US consumers likely won't feel the effects of the tariffs, American farmers and
A trade war between the US and China looms once again. Following a brief truce in May, the White House launches new tariffs on Chinese goods, and Beijing responds with more retaliatory tariffs. 1/19 While many US consumers likely won't feel the effects of the tariffs, American
Battles in eastern Yemen may endanger up to 250,000 civilians. Here’s the Yemen conflict explained in 400 words. According to the Inspector General, former FBI Director Comey was “insubordinate” in handling the Clinton probe, but not biased. Look for Trump to exploit the report on many levels. Most
Battles in eastern Yemen may endanger up to 250,000 civilians. Here’s the Yemen conflict explained in 400 words. 1/23 According to the Inspector General, former FBI Director Comey was “insubordinate†in handling the Clinton probe, but not biased. Look for Trump to exploit the report on
Michael Cohen, Trump's former personal attorney, has separated from his lawyers and may be ready to cooperate with federal investigators. Anticipating Cohen's possible flip, Trump's team has already begun rolling out a smear campaign against him. It's Donald Trump's birthday.
Michael Cohen, Trump's former personal attorney, has separated from his lawyers and may be ready to cooperate with federal investigators. 1/19 Anticipating Cohen's possible flip, Trump's team has already begun rolling out a smear campaign against him. 2/19 It's Donald
We wrap up our first book of the summer, Tomb Song by Julián Herbert, in conversation with novelists Laura van den Berg and Rosecrans Baldwin.
Trump showed Kim a movie trailer made by the White House for their meeting, presenting Trump and Kim as two heroes on the verge of changing world history. North Korea claims the US committed to lifting sanctions. That’s not what Trump said. “The negative commentary I am seeing is
Trump showed Kim a movie trailer made by the White House for their Singapore meeting, presenting them as two heroes on the verge of changing world history. 1/20 North Korea claims the US committed to lifting sanctions. That’s not what Trump said. 2/20 An economist’s take
At the end of yesterday's summit between Trump and Kim Jong Un, the two leaders signed a vague document with loophole-friendly agreements—e.g., "the DPRK commits to work towards the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula." In a post-summit press conference, Trump announced the end
At the end of yesterday's summit between Trump and Kim Jong Un, the two leaders signed a vague document with loophole-friendly agreements—e.g., "the DPRK commits to work towards the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula." 1/20 In a post-summit press conference, Trump announced
Trump’s tariffs are pushing away some of his most loyal Congressional allies and Republican backers. Macron asks other G7 countries to confront Trump on trade, climate change, and the Iran nuclear deal. And then there’s that handshake. A doofus's unpredictability and narcissism helped precipitate the fall
Trump’s tariffs are pushing away some of his most loyal Congressional allies and Republican backers. 1/19 Macron asks other G7 countries to confront Trump on trade, climate change, and the Iran nuclear deal. And then there’s that handshake. 2/19 A doofus's unpredictability and narcissism
In an apparent second high-profile suicide this week, Anthony Bourdain has died at age 61 in France. In a new CDC report, suicide rates in the US have increased dramatically since 1999, especially among those with no known mental health conditions. If you or someone you know is having thoughts
In an apparent second high-profile suicide this week, Anthony Bourdain has died at age 61 in France. 1/21 In a new CDC report, suicide rates in the US have increased dramatically since 1999, especially among those with no known mental health conditions. 2/21 If you or someone you
Democrats aren’t sick of voting yet, and neither are Republicans: Lessons learned from this week’s elections. California may be the heart of the Trump resistance, but it's largely apathetic about voting in primaries. Paul Ryan joins Trey Gowdy in dismissing Trump’s “spygate” conspiracy theory. Our
Democrats aren’t sick of voting yet, and neither are Republicans: Lessons learned from this week’s elections. 1/22 California may be the heart of the Trump resistance, but it's largely apathetic about voting in primaries. 2/22 Paul Ryan joins Trey Gowdy in dismissing Trump’s
We kick off our first book of the summer, Tomb Song by Julián Herbert, in conversation with Laura van den Berg and Rosecrans Baldwin.
A play-by-play of Trump’s surreal “Celebration of America” event yesterday, thrown together after the president nixed the Philadelphia Eagles' visit, for which only one player was confirmed to attend. Everyone's claiming victory in the Supreme Court gay wedding cake decision, and no one knows what a
A play-by-play of Trump’s surreal “Celebration of America†event yesterday, thrown together after the president nixed the Philadelphia Eagles' visit, for which only one player was confirmed to attend. 1/17 Everyone's claiming victory in the Supreme Court gay wedding cake decision, and no one
Fifteen legal experts discuss whether President Trump—as he claims—has the power to pardon himself. Etiquette-ing a Trump-Kim summit: Who sits where, who enters when, and who picks up the check. Barring an act of Congress, the Secret Service will protect a former president or first lady who goes
Fifteen legal experts discuss whether President Trump has the power to pardon himself, as he claims. 1/28 Etiquette-ing a Trump-Kim summit: Who sits where, who enters when, and who picks up the check. 2/28 Barring an act of Congress, the Secret Service will protect a former president or
I want to tell you, dear strangers, why I’m here and what I encountered. The three-winged pigeon. My cynical doppelganger. The loneliness and marvels and confusions of the house. And most importantly the ghost living in my bedroom. She was everything I’d hoped to find, but she was
The US unemployment rate has dropped to its lowest since 2000; however, by tweeting this morning about the jobs report ahead of its release, Trump broke federal regulations that are in place to avoid influencing markets. After Trump allowed their tariff exemptions to expire, Canada, Mexico, and the EU hit
The US unemployment rate has dropped to its lowest since 2000; however, by tweeting this morning about the jobs report ahead of its release, Trump broke federal regulations that are in place to avoid influencing markets. 1/18 After Trump allowed their tariff exemptions to expire, Canada, Mexico, and the
Meet your judges and hosts, check out the summer book list, and get reading.
The number of excess deaths related to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico is 4,645, more than 70 times the official estimate of 64 people. Donald Trump is a liar—and that fact remains weirdly poorly integrated into ongoing coverage of the White House. The story of the Trump administration
The number of excess deaths related to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico is 4,645, more than 70 times the official estimate of 64 people. 1/17 Donald Trump is a liar—and that fact remains weirdly poorly integrated into ongoing coverage of the White House. 2/17 The story
Secretary of State Pompeo to meet “North Korean regime insider” Kim Yong-chol in New York to discuss the lingering possibility of a June summit. Trump to meet Kim Kardashian after months of talks between her and Jared Kushner over a pardon for a one-time drug offender. North Korea is a
Secretary of State Pompeo to meet with “North Korean regime insider†Kim Yong-chol in New York to discuss the lingering possibility of a June summit. 1/29 Trump to meet Kim Kardashian after months of talks between her and Jared Kushner over a pardon for a one-time drug offender.
Online therapy has become quite popular, and for some good reasons. It’s a more affordable, more portable option, and because of improving technology, you can talk to your therapist anywhere. This allows you to be able to make updates, get help in any situation, and be able to have
A final discussion with Sarah Hepola, Rosecrans Baldwin, and Andrew Womack about the three memoirs we read this month.
President Trump cancels the summit with North Korea after the Vice President is called an idiot. The commemorative coin is still for sale from the White House gift shop. Trump’s unpredictability is leading to narrowing options, producing “a mounting list of foreign-policy failures.” Especially in the United States, data
President Trump cancels the summit with North Korea after the Vice President was called an idiot. As of last night, the summit's commemorative coin was still for sale from the White House gift shop. Unfortunately, as a discounted "deal of the day," it crashed the server.
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A longtime North Korean diplomat calls Mike Pence “stupid,” and says any comparisons to Libya are “ignorant.” At the same time, North Korea dismantles its main nuclear-weapons test site. Another American consular employee falls ill after a mysterious sonic attack, this time in China. Trump tells CBS's Lesley
A longtime North Korean diplomat calls Mike Pence “stupid,†and says any comparisons to Libya are “ignorant.†1/27 At the same time, North Korea dismantles its main nuclear-weapons test site. 2/27 Another American consular employee falls ill after a mysterious sonic attack, this time
After winning Georgia's Democratic nomination yesterday, Stacey Abrams could now become America's first black woman governor in November. See also: More key election takeaways from Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, and Texas. Multiple McDonald's and Walmart employees take up sexual harassment lawsuits against their employers. The
After winning Georgia's Democratic nomination yesterday, Stacey Abrams could now become America's first black woman governor in November. 1/25 See also: More key election takeaways from Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, and Texas. 2/25 Multiple McDonald's and Walmart employees take up sexual harassment lawsuits
Today we wrap up our third and final book in this month's reading, as Sarah Hepola and Andrew Womack discuss the culmination of Patricia Lockwood's memoir, which ends up being about so much more than her father.
The Justice Department expands its internal investigation into the FBI's Russia probe after FBI and Justice officials met with President Trump. The question is, who blinked? A thoughtful Twitter thread to help you understand Trump’s latest tweeting about the Justice Department. Trump meets today with South Korean
The Justice Department expands its internal investigation into the FBI's Russia probe after FBI and Justice officials met yesterday with President Trump. The question is, who blinked? 1/23 A thoughtful Twitter thread to help you understand Trump’s latest tweeting about the Justice Department. 2/23 Trump
Three months after Parkland, America grieves yet another massacre of children by a young man with guns. 1/20 This year has seen an average of slightly more than one school shooting per week in the United States—a country where over 33,000 people die from guns each year.
Three months after Parkland, America grieves yet another massacre of children by a young man with guns. This year has seen an average of slightly more than one school shooting per week in the United States. About 51 million households in the US don't earn enough to afford
We're down to the last book in our first-ever Tournament of Books nonfiction event. Today, Sarah Hepola and Andrew Womack discuss the beginning of Patricia Lockwood's memoir, Priestdaddy.
A new White House proposal would prevent Planned Parenthood and other organizations from receiving federal money while providing abortions, even if those services use private funding. After one death and more than 170 known incidents of illness, the CDC says romaine lettuce is now safe to eat. A year into
A new White House proposal would prevent Planned Parenthood and other organizations from receiving federal money while providing abortions, even if those services use private funding. 1/18 After one death and more than 170 known incidents of illness, the CDC says romaine lettuce is now safe to eat. 2/
“Gaza buries its dead as death toll from protests at fence with Israel rises to at least 60.” Are we to assume that the protests—and not the Israeli military—killed these people? American media avoids saying who it was that killed more than 60 Palestinians on Monday. In Pennsylvania,
“Gaza buries its dead as death toll from protests at fence with Israel rises to at least 60.†Are we to assume that the protests—and not the Israeli military—killed these people? American media avoids saying who it was that killed more than 60 Palestinians on Monday.
Yesterday, North Korea seemed to take an abrupt about-face, canceling a meeting with South Korea and threatening to call off the Trump-Kim summit—possibly over US-South Korea military drills or diplomatic disrespect around its nuclear program. The Senate votes today to repeal the net neutrality changes that assign more power
Yesterday, North Korea seemed to take an abrupt about-face, canceling a meeting with South Korea and threatening to call off the Trump-Kim summit—possibly over US-South Korea military drills or diplomatic disrespect around its nuclear program. 1/23 The Senate votes today to repeal the net neutrality changes that assign
Funerals begin in Gaza after 58 Palestinians were killed and 2,700 were injured in conflict with Israeli forces during the controversial inauguration of the US embassy in Jerusalem. Israel and the White House pin the violence on Hamas, and refuse to bear responsibility for an outcome that was obvious
Our first-ever Tournament of Books nonfiction event continues. Today TMN's Rosecrans Baldwin and Sarah Hepola discuss the conclusion to Tara Westover's harrowing, inspiring Educated.
Funerals begin in Gaza after 58 Palestinians were killed and 2,700 were injured in conflict with Israeli forces during the controversial inauguration of the US embassy in Jerusalem. 1/17 Israel and the White House pin the violence on Hamas, and refuse to bear responsibility for an outcome that
By maligning McCain, the Trump White House reached a new low for political debasement this week. Worth remembering with all this talk of torture: Christopher Hitchens got waterboarded so you’d know what it’s like. Liuba Grechen Shirley is the first female candidate to get federal permission to use
By maligning McCain, the Trump White House reached a new low for political debasement this week. 1/23 Worth remembering with all this talk of torture: Christopher Hitchens got waterboarded so you’d know what it’s like. 2/23 Liuba Grechen Shirley is the first female candidate to get
Senator John McCain—recently mocked by a White House official, not to mention grossly insulted on TV by a Fox News analyst—is fighting Trump with his dying breaths. Europe’s biggest economies take steps to protect their commercial and political interests in Iran. Here are five scenarios for what
Our first-ever Tournament of Books nonfiction event continues. Today we talk with memoirist Sarah Hepola about the first half of Tara Westover's astonishing Educated.
Senator John McCain, recently mocked by a White House official, not to mention grossly insulted by a Fox News analyst, is fighting Trump with his dying breaths. 1/20 Europe’s biggest economies take steps to protect their commercial and political interests in Iran. 2/20 Here are five scenarios
President Trump thanks Kim Jong Un for releasing three Americans detained in North Korea. Here's how it happened and what it means. Michael Cohen made more than $2 million "working as a Trump whisperer." He's not the only one. A black student at Yale
President Trump thanks Kim Jong Un for releasing three Americans detained in North Korea. Here's how it happened and what it means. 1/20 Michael Cohen made more than $2 million "working as a Trump whisperer." He's not the only one. 2/20 A
Normally silent about the doings of the White House, Obama responds to Trump’s plan to pull out of the Iran deal. Trump’s plan to abandon the nuclear deal, with no alternative policy in place, puts “US diplomacy on a collision course with some of Washington's closest
Normally silent about the doings of the current White House, Obama responds to Trump’s decision to pull out of the Iran deal. 1/23 Trump’s plan to abandon the deal, with no alternative policy in place, puts “US diplomacy on a collision course with some of Washington&
Our first-ever Tournament of Books nonfiction event continues. Today we talk with author Sarah Hepola about the conclusion of Roxane Gay's astonishing memoir.
European diplomats, despite recent talks, expect Trump to say he intends to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal this afternoon. If Trump moves to re-impose sanctions, look for a brief preservation of the deal between Iran and Europe, and then possibly a resumption of nuclear work. A good way
European diplomats, despite recent talks, expect Trump to say he intends to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal this afternoon. 1/23 If Trump moves to re-impose sanctions, look for a brief preservation of the deal between Iran and Europe, possibly a resumption of nuclear work. 2/23 A
“Every little thing that we eat has been bred for very specific characteristics. People have fought about the breeding of apples the same way people think about building new technology.” The fight to protect “clean” meat may already be lost; by now, all food has been altered by innovation. Many
“Every little thing that we eat has been bred for very specific characteristics. People have fought about the breeding of apples the same way people think about building new technology.†The fight to protect “clean†meat may already be lost; by now, all food has been altered
Our first-ever Tournament of Books nonfiction event begins with a conversation with author Sarah Hepola about Roxane Gay's powerful 2017 memoir, through chapter 42.
The White House’s trade delegation in China wants a bilateral trade imbalance slashed immediately, and for China to stop subsidizing tech. Netanyahu’s case against the Iran deal—which is basically Trump’s case, too—leaves many nuclear analysts “fuming with outrage.” Among the upside risks of the Trump
The White House’s trade delegation in China wants a bilateral trade imbalance slashed immediately, and for China to stop subsidizing tech. 1/20 Netanyahu’s case against the Iran deal—which is basically Trump’s case, too—leaves many nuclear analysts “fuming with outrage.†2/20 Among
A month after Trump claimed he didn't know about the $130,000 Michael Cohen gave Stormy Daniels, new Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani says Trump reimbursed Cohen $35,000 a month for a year after the election, and Trump confirmed the reimbursement this morning. Giuliani claims it's
A month after Trump claimed he didn't know about the $130,000 Michael Cohen gave Stormy Daniels, new Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani says Trump reimbursed Cohen $35,000 a month for a year after the election, and Trump confirmed the reimbursement this morning. 1/15 Giuliani claims it&
In early March, Mueller told Trump’s legal team he could issue a subpoena for the president to appear before a grand jury. They weren’t happy to hear it. Not only does Robert Mueller know more than we think, he likely know how all of this ends. According to
In early March, Mueller told Trump’s legal team he could issue a subpoena for the president to appear before a grand jury. They weren’t happy to hear it. 1/21 Not only does Robert Mueller know more than we think, he likely know how all of this ends.
Real facts, real events, real people—oh my! It's time for our first ever Tournament of Books nonfiction event.
What did you mean when you told Russian diplomats on May 10, 2017, that firing Mr. Comey had taken the pressure off? An analysis of the questions Robert Mueller supposedly wants to ask President Trump. How did Mueller’s questions reach the media? Trump calls it a “disgraceful” leak, though
What did you mean when you told Russian diplomats on May 10, 2017, that firing Mr. Comey had taken the pressure off? An analysis of the questions Robert Mueller supposedly wants to ask President Trump. 1/26 How did Mueller’s questions reach the media? Trump calls it a â€
Three lessons the White House could learn after the fall of yet another Trump administration nomination. President Trump's live interview with his favorite TV show is already causing legal problems for President Trump. A new law in China bans any questioning of the folklore surrounding the 1949 formation
Three lessons the White House could learn after the fall of yet another Trump administration nomination. 1/21 President Trump's live interview with his favorite TV show is already causing legal problems for President Trump. 2/21 A new law in China bans any questioning of the folklore
The Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl! What a historically great game…for those of us who can remember it. We all hope that the great athletes who lay life and limb on the line for a moment that cements them in the history books do not suffer neurological disorders
In a historic meeting, North Korea's Kim Jong-un and South Korea's Moon Jae-in meet at the border, pledging to remove nuclear weapons from the peninsula and end the Korean War that began 68 years ago. With Mike Pompeo’s confirmation as Secretary of State, LGBT activists
In a historic meeting, North Korea's Kim Jong-un and South Korea's Moon Jae-in meet at the border, pledging to remove nuclear weapons from the peninsula and end the Korean War that began 68 years ago. 1/16 With Mike Pompeo’s confirmation as Secretary of State,
Dr. Ronny Jackson withdraws his nomination to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs, but remains on the job as the president’s physician. The White House press corps has never had it so bad and so good at the same time. Thousands of Germans don yarmulkes and march in several cities
Dr. Ronny Jackson withdraws his nomination to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs, but remains on the job as the president’s physician. 1/25 The White House press corps has never had it so bad and so good at the same time. 2/25 Thousands of Germans don yarmulkes and
Federal judge rules DACA must be reopened, calling the White House's maneuvers to end it "arbitrary and capricious," while allowing the Dept. of Homeland Security 90 days to provide an adequate argument for why the program should be illegal. The thousands-strong caravan of Central American migrants
Federal judge rules DACA must be reopened, calling the White House's maneuvers to end it "arbitrary and capricious," while allowing the Dept. of Homeland Security 90 days to provide an adequate argument for why the program should be illegal. 1/17 The thousands-strong caravan of Central
The manhunt ends for the suspected shooter who killed four people at a Waffle House in Tennessee. James Shaw Jr., who wrestled away the suspect’s AR-15, has since raised thousands of dollars for the victims’ families. More than half of the world's wealthy investors say they expect
The manhunt ends for the suspected shooter who killed four people at a Waffle House in Tennessee. 1/26 James Shaw Jr., who wrestled away the suspect’s AR-15, has since raised thousands of dollars for the victims’ families. 2/26 More than half of the world's wealthy
Every day, Newsmeister serves up a dozen questions that test your knowledge of the news. {image-1} The free quiz that takes less than three minutes to play, and offers news junkies worldwide a chance to outscore their friends. Questions focus on trending global news, covering categories such as sports, business,
The Comey memos, composed after each of his meetings with President Trump, have gone public. In one of the memos, the President suggested jailing journalists to prevent stories from getting out of his leaking White House. No one's talking about the new tax law—supposedly the GOP'
The Comey memos, composed after the FBI Director's meetings with President Trump, have gone public. 1/17 In one of the memos, the President suggests jailing journalists to prevent stories from getting out of his leaking White House. 2/17 No one's talking about the new
Before Facebook, before Cambridge Analytica, Peter Thiel's Palantir began mining your data, and it's never stopped. Online echo chambers aren't real. Research shows social media exposes us to more perspectives, not fewer. A nascent social network, Minds, represents a post-Facebook future where users are
Before Facebook, before Cambridge Analytica, Peter Thiel's Palantir began mining your data, and it's never stopped. 1/19 Online echo chambers aren't real. Research shows social media exposes us to more perspectives, not fewer. 2/19 A nascent social network, Minds, represents a post-Facebook
As potential grows for direct talks between Trump and Kim Jong Un, Trump gives himself an escape hatch: "If we don't think it's going to be successful, we won't have it. If the meeting when I'm there isn't fruitful,
As potential grows for direct talks between Trump and Kim Jong Un, Trump gives himself an escape hatch: "If we don't think it's going to be successful, we won't have it. If the meeting when I'm there isn't fruitful,
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a secret visit to North Korea recently, becoming the most senior US official ever to meet with Kim Jong Un. Barbara Bush dies at 92, one of only two women in American history (her and Abigail Adams) to be both wife and mother of
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a secret visit to North Korea recently, becoming the most senior US official ever to meet with Kim Jong Un. 1/16 Barbara Bush dies at 92, one of only two women in American history (her and Abigail Adams) to be both wife and
Following last week's FBI raid on Trump fixer Michael Cohen's home, office, and hotel that resulted in the seizure of multiple documents and devices, yesterday a Manhattan judge blocked Cohen and Trump's request to review all documents before prosecutors. During the Cohen hearing, the
Following last week's FBI raid on Trump fixer Michael Cohen's home, office, and hotel that resulted in the seizure of multiple documents and devices, yesterday a Manhattan judge blocked Cohen and Trump's request to review all documents before prosecutors. 1/19 During the Cohen
France, Britain, and the US launch coordinated bombing strikes against Syria. Trump quickly says, echoing W., “Mission accomplished!” Members of Congress insist the White House needed to consult with them first. Russia says the strikes were ineffective, claiming most of the missiles were intercepted. Hitting Assad now might bring a
France, Britain, and the United States launch coordinated bombing strikes against Syria. Trump quickly says, echoing W., “Mission accomplished!†1/22 Members of Congress insist the White House needed to consult with them first. 2/22 Russia claims the strikes were ineffective, saying most of the missiles were
After exiting the Trans Pacific Partnership soon after entering office, Trump now wants back in—if he gets a better deal than Obama. It might not be so easy, though, since the other countries have already renegotiated a plan that doesn't include the US. Rummaging for data to
After exiting the Trans Pacific Partnership soon after entering office, Trump now wants back in—if he gets a better deal than Obama. It might not be so easy, though, since the other countries have already renegotiated a plan that doesn't include the US. 1/20 Rummaging for
Steve Bannon is back, or he’s trying to be: pitching White House aides and Trump allies on a plan to kill the Mueller probe. Worth remembering: Trump's recent tweets on Russia mirrored the conversation and the storylines, in almost real-time, from an episode of Fox & Friends.
Steve Bannon is back, or he’s trying to be: pitching White House aides and Trump allies on a plan to kill the Mueller probe. 1/16 Worth noting: Trump's recent tweets on Russia mirrored the conversation and storylines, in near real-time, from an episode of Fox &
Russia and the US rattle sabers over Syria, with military maneuvers by both nations—as well as a pair of Trump tweets that travel from aggressive to conciliatory within an hour of each other. The midterms just got bleaker for Republicans, as House Speaker Paul Ryan tells colleagues he won&
Russia and the US rattle sabers over Syria, with military maneuvers by both nations—as well as a pair of Trump tweets that travel from aggressive to conciliatory within an hour of each other. 1/19 The midterms just got bleaker for Republicans, as House Speaker Paul Ryan tells colleagues
Bipolar disorder is one of the most confusing types of mental health disorders and affects more than three million people in the United States. That is close to two percent of Americans 18 and older who suffer from this debilitating and life-changing disease. The condition is described as extreme highs
The FBI raids the office, home, and hotel room of the President's longtime lawyer, prompting an “extraordinary scene” at the White House. The fact that the raid was handled by a US attorney’s office suggests Trump’s efforts to co-opt the Justice Department “have been unsuccessful for
The FBI raids the office, home, and hotel room of the President's longtime lawyer, prompting an “extraordinary scene†at the White House. 1/24 The fact that the raid was handled by a US attorney’s office suggests Trump’s efforts to co-opt the Justice Department â€
A brief edition today as we take the rest of the week off to recover from the 2018 Tournament of Books. To all who followed along with this year’s ToB: Thank you, and we hope you enjoyed what turned out to be one of our wildest, topsy-turviest years yet.
A brief edition today as we take the rest of the week off to recover from the 2018 Tournament of Books. To all who followed along with this year’s ToB: Thank you, and we hope you enjoyed what turned out to be one of our wildest, topsy-turviest years yet.
Ex-French president Nicolas Sarkozy will face trial for corruption and influence peddling. 1/16 Eighteen percent of Poles don't accept Jewish people as Polish citizens. Twice as many feel the same way about Muslims. 2/16 Japan makes it known that it, too, would like a summit with
Ex-French president Nicolas Sarkozy will face trial for corruption and influence peddling. Eighteen percent of Poles don't accept Jewish people as Polish citizens. Twice as many feel the same about Muslims. Japan makes it known that it, too, would like a summit with North Korea, thanks. Video: At
All 22 female senators from both parties sign a letter protesting the Senate's inaction on sexual harassment. American special forces are in more than twice as many countries as US ambassadors. In case you missed it: Retired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens calls for the repeal of
All 22 female Senators from both parties sign a letter protesting the Senate's inaction on sexual harassment. 1/14 American special forces are in more than twice as many countries as US ambassadors. 2/14 In case you missed it: Retired Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens calls
A liberal reporter hits the road with his 93-year-old, Trump-loving cousin to ask people how to fix America. Anyone bothered by teenagers protesting America's gun problem with memes is desperately out of touch. R.I.P., Linda Brown Thompson, the girl at the center of Brown v. Board
A liberal reporter hits the road with his 93-year-old, Trump-loving cousin to ask people how to fix America. 1/10 Anyone bothered by teenagers protesting America's gun problem with memes is desperately out of touch. 2/10 R.I.P., Linda Brown Thompson, the girl at the center
The March for our Lives movement could succeed where others have failed because of "issue intensity." White people don’t frame Trump’s vast negligence as racial, but they should. Federal arts funding actually went up under Trump’s administration. It required a Fox News host to inform
The March for our Lives movement could succeed where others have failed because of "issue intensity." 1/13 White people don’t frame Trump’s vast negligence as racial, but they should. 2/13 It seems that federal arts funding actually will go up under Trump’s administrationâ€
Trump names John R. Bolton his national security advisor. With Mike Pompeo nominated for State, he’s got “the most radically aggressive foreign policy team… in modern memory.” Homeland Security and the FBI admit Russia hacked the US power grid and continues to attack our infrastructure. No one expects Trump
Trump names John R. Bolton to be his security advisor. With Pompeo nominated for State, he’s got “the most radically aggressive foreign policy team… in modern memory.†1/16 Homeland Security and the FBI say Russia hacked the US power grid and continues to attack our infrastructure.
The White House plans to announce tariffs to punish China for intellectual property theft. France’s Macron trumps other European leaders in bro-ship with Mr. Trump by using “man’s man” language and flattery. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince brags about having the First Son-in-Law, Jared Kushner, “in his pocket.
The White House plans to announce tariffs to punish China for intellectual property theft. 1/16 France’s Macron trumps other European leaders in bro-ship with Mr. Trump by using “man’s man†language and flattery. 2/16 Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince brags about having the First Son-in-Law,
Trump’s telephone call to congratulate Putin—despite notes saying “DO NOT CONGRATULATE” in all caps—should lower expectations for his upcoming summit with Kim Jong Un. Incidentally, the White House is furious that a senior staffer leaked the all-caps advice. Trump doesn't have a conscious intent to
Trump’s telephone call to congratulate Putin—despite notes saying “DO NOT CONGRATULATE†in all caps—should lower expectations for his upcoming summit with Kim Jong Un. 1/10 Incidentally, the White House is furious that a senior staffer leaked the all-caps advice. 2/10 Trump doesn't
A bomb destined for Austin, Texas, explodes at a FedEx facility in San Antonio, injuring one. Austin police say it’s likely connected to the recent string of attacks. 1/13 French police arrest former President Nicolas Sarkozy over alleged Libyan funding for his 2007 election campaign. 2/13 President
A bomb destined for Austin, Texas, explodes at a FedEx facility in San Antonio, injuring one. Austin police say it’s likely connected to a recent string of attacks. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy arrested over alleged Libyan funding for his 2007 election campaign. If you follow the news, it
The Attorney General fires ex-FBI deputy Andrew McCabe two days shy of his retirement. McCabe says it’s an attack on the FBI and the Special Counsel investigation. Trump says it’s a great day for America. If you're not keen on this White House, here's
The Attorney General fires ex-FBI deputy Andrew McCabe two days shy of his retirement. 1/12 McCabe says it’s an attack on the FBI and the Special Counsel investigation. Trump says it’s a great day for America. 2/12 If you're not keen on this White
National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster is expected to depart the White House within weeks. Other Trump advisors continue to compete for his approval. By doing what? Telling big whoppers, answering sensitive questions with offensive remarks. India and Pakistan are literally doorbell-ditching one another’s diplomats. The People’s Congress
National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster is expected to depart the White House within weeks. 1/18 Other Trump advisors continue to compete for his approval. How? By telling big whoppers, or answering sensitive questions with offensive remarks. 2/18 India and Pakistan are literally ding-dong-ditching one another’s diplomats.
On a day of student protests against gun violence, a gunman shot two hospital employees at a University of Alabama hospital. Fleeing ICE and, presumably, deportation, two die in a car crash in California. Electricity demand in the US is flat, thanks to efficiency and outsourcing. Utilities failed to see
On a day of student protests against gun violence, a gunman shot two hospital employees at a University of Alabama hospital. 1/12 Fleeing ICE and, presumably, deportation, two die in a car crash in California. 2/12 Electricity demand in the US is flat, thanks to efficiency and outsourcing.
Stephen Hawking dies at the age of 76. An obituary, a list of quotes, a tribute to his place in pop culture. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson confirms that Russia probably poisoned a spy in London. Hours later, Trump fires him. (“Rex, eat the salad.”) Russia now has more intelligence
Stephen Hawking dies at the age of 76. An obituary, a list of quotes, a tribute to his place in pop culture. 1/14 Secretary of State Rex Tillerson confirms that Russia probably poisoned a spy in London. Hours later, Trump fires him. (“Rex, eat the salad.â€) 2/
Mattis makes an unannounced visit to Afghanistan, says the Taliban’s interested in talks to end the more than 16-year-old war. Trump visits California, not his favorite place, judging by his tweets. Too bad he’s looking at his silly wall, not a real border problem like sewage. Because Pat
Secretary of Defense Mattis makes an unannounced visit to Afghanistan, says the Taliban is interested in talks to end the more than 16-year-old war. 1/18 Trump visits California—not his favorite place, judging by his tweets. Too bad he’s looking at his silly wall, not a real border
Kim Jong-un invites the President to chat about North Korea’s nuclear program. In a “breathtaking” gamble, Trump spontaneously agrees to meet by May. The analysis is only just getting started: where did this come from and what does it mean? Is Trump walking into a trap? And here’s
Kim Jong-un invites the President to chat about North Korea’s nuclear program. In a “breathtaking†gamble, Trump spontaneously agrees to meet by May. 1/13 The analysis is only just getting started: where did this come from and what does it mean? Is Trump walking into a trap?
In a major new JAMA study, patients on opioids do no better than those taking alternatives. 1/10 The White House sues California to invalidate three of its immigration laws, using a ruling that sided with Obama. California Gov. Brown calls it a "stunt." 2/10 Governors in
In a major new JAMA study, patients on opioids do no better than those taking alternatives. The White House sues California to invalidate three of its immigration laws. Gov. Brown calls it a "stunt." Governors in New England declare states of emergency in the face of another major
Today in Trump-ville: Kushner goes to Mexico, economic adviser Cohn has left the building, and Stormy Daniels sues the president, alleging that he never signed their nondisclosure agreement. The President seems prepared to blame Parkland on the gaming industry—catching gamers by surprise. Only 13 Delta tickets were ever sold
Today in Trump-ville: Kushner goes to Mexico, economic adviser Cohn has left the building, and Stormy Daniels sues the president, alleging that he never signed their nondisclosure agreement. 1/16 The President seems prepared to blame Parkland on the gaming industry—catching gamers by surprise. 2/16 Only 13 Delta
GOP strategists say Trump's threat of a trade war appears to be in part timed to Pennsylvania's March 13 special election. An economic analysis of Trump's proposed steel and aluminum tariffs shows that for every US job they would create, five would be lost.
GOP strategists say Trump's threat of a trade war appears to be in part timed to Pennsylvania's March 13 special election. 1/13 An economic analysis of Trump's proposed steel and aluminum tariffs shows that for every US job they would create, five would
Trump's threats of a steel and aluminum trade war erupted without any prior review by officials—and may well be added to his heap of other random policy changes that come out of nowhere, and then go nowhere. Interior Department emails show that Trump's move to
Trump's threats of a steel and aluminum trade war erupted without any prior review by officials—and may well be added to his heap of other random policy changes that come out of nowhere, and then go nowhere. 1/17 Interior Department emails show that Trump's
Italy votes for a new parliament this weekend and Berlusconi is back. At the same time, Germany expects to get another four years of the ‘grand coalition.’ Ireland’s shut down and at least 55 people have died amid sub-zero temperatures across Europe. A discussion of “long peace”—the relative
Italy votes for a new parliament this weekend and Berlusconi is back. At the same time, Germany expects to get another four years of the "grand coalition." 1/23 Ireland is shut down and at least 55 people have died amid sub-zero temperatures across Europe. 2/23 A
Donald Trump shocks a room full of Republicans by endorsing nearly every gun-control measure sought by Democrats, though both sides think he’ll bend with the wind. FYI: Americans tend to bend over in a way that makes us look like cashews. Thanks to the Dickey Amendment, government dollars can&
President Trump shocks a room full of Republicans by endorsing nearly every gun-control measure sought by Democrats. Both sides think he’ll bend with the wind. 1/21 FYI: Compared to the rest of the world, Americans tend to bend over in a way that makes us look like cashews.
Jared Kushner’s security clearance gets downgraded after a report says foreign powers tried to seek leverage over him. Officials in at least four countries have privately discussed ways they can manipulate Jared Kushner...by taking advantage of his complex business arrangements, financial difficulties, and lack of foreign policy experience.
Jared Kushner’s security clearance gets downgraded after a report says foreign powers tried to seek leverage over him. 1/23 Officials in at least four countries have privately discussed ways they can manipulate Jared Kushner...by taking advantage of his complex business arrangements, financial difficulties, and lack of foreign
The President says he would’ve attacked the gunman at Parkland even if he was unarmed. We know this is a lie given every other time Trump has encountered danger. Trump calls Parkland a “setback” from being able to talk about the economy. Once again, the real victim is him.
The President says he would’ve attacked the gunman at Parkland even if he was unarmed. We know this is a lie given every other time Trump has encountered danger. 1/22 Trump calls Parkland a “setback†from being able to talk about the economy. Once again, the real
Ten Colorado hospitals successfully reduced patient opioid usage through alternate pain management methods and meds. It's not just rate of fire: AR-15 ammo travels three times faster than a handgun's—victims and doctors are helpless. School shootings are only the most public of tragedies. Others, on
Ten Colorado hospitals successfully reduced patient opioid usage through alternate pain management methods and meds. 1/13 It's not just rate of fire: AR-15 ammo travels three times faster than a handgun's—victims and doctors are helpless. 2/13 School shootings are only the most public
Another mass shooting, more outpouring of outrage, and some very impressive, grieving teenagers—and still the outcome looks to be the same. President Trump adds his own twist to the NRA’s talking points: teachers should carry guns, but with a pay raise for their trouble. Teachers and police officers
Another mass shooting, more outpouring of outrage, and some very impressive, grieving teenagers—and still the outcome looks to be the same. 1/23 President Trump adds his own twist to the NRA’s talking points: teachers should carry guns, but with a pay raise for their trouble. 2/23
From a White House "listening session" to Marjory Stoneman Douglas students speaking at the Florida State House to a televised town hall with the students confronting Marco Rubio and the NRA's Dana Loesch, yesterday was a dramatic day in the pursuit of American gun reform. It&
From a White House "listening session" to Marjory Stoneman Douglas students speaking at the Florida State House to a televised town hall with the students confronting Marco Rubio and the NRA's Dana Loesch, yesterday was a dramatic day in the pursuit of American gun reform. 1/
Syrian government airstrikes have killed at least 200 people over the past two days on the outskirts of Damascus. Sixty-two percent of Americans fault Trump for not doing more to prevent mass shootings; sixty-six percent now support stronger gun laws. Trump’s talk about regulating bump stocks is, again, likely
Syrian government airstrikes have killed at least 200 civilians over the past four days on the outskirts of Damascus. 1/25 Sixty-two percent of Americans fault Trump for not doing more to prevent mass shootings; sixty-six percent now support stronger gun laws. 2/25 Trump’s talk about regulating bump
Hostilities escalate outside Damascus; yesterday was the deadliest day in the area in three years. A sentiment analysis of every one of Trump's 2,551 tweets during his first year in office—a third are negative. Facebook plans to send physical postcards with verification codes to anyone trying
Hostilities escalate outside Damascus; yesterday was the deadliest day in the area in three years. 1/15 A sentiment analysis of every one of Trump's 2,551 tweets during his first year in office—a third are negative. 2/15 Facebook plans to send physical postcards with verification
The Justice Department charged 13 Russians and three companies with a vast campaign to subvert the 2016 election and support Trump. Here’s a breakdown of what the indictment says, and an example of what that subversion looks like. The Boston Globe dedicates its front page to the next mass
The Justice Department charged 13 Russians and three companies with a vast campaign to subvert the 2016 election and support Trump. 1/21 Here’s a breakdown of what the indictment says, and an example of what that subversion looks like. 2/21 The Boston Globe dedicates its front page
Yesterday the Senate voted down four different bills that would have saved DACA. The only option that stood much of a chance—but still couldn't pass—came up short on the White House's additional requirements for a Dreamer bill, which include border security, limiting family reunification
Yesterday the Senate voted down four different bills that would have saved DACA. The only option that stood much of a chance—but still couldn't pass—came up short on the White House's additional requirements for a Dreamer bill, which include border security, limiting family reunification
A teenager killed 17 of his classmates and wounded 15 more at a South Florida school. Students documented the shooting as it happened. Just seven weeks into 2018, this is America’s eighth school shooting to result in injury or death. Since 2013, we average one per week. America’s
A teenager killed 17 of his classmates and wounded 15 more at a South Florida school. Students documented the shooting as it happened. 1/19 Just seven weeks into 2018, this is America’s eighth school shooting to result in injury or death. Since 2013, we average one per week.
US intelligence officials say Russia is actively meddling in this year's midterm elections. Tactics currently include bots spreading disinformation over social media—no hacking efforts have been disclosed. Now Facebook was the place where publications could connect with their readers—and also where Macedonian teenagers could connect with
US intelligence officials say Russia is actively meddling in this year's midterm elections. Tactics currently include bots spreading disinformation over social media—no hacking efforts have been disclosed. 1/22 Now Facebook was the place where publications could connect with their readers—and also where Macedonian teenagers could
Jacob Zuma defies an ultimatum from South Africa’s ruling ANC party to resign within 48 hours. Politics has broken out in Germany—a revolt against the “Merkel method.” The US Senate's immigration debate, currently underway, will test the willingness of conservative groups to compromise in the Trump
Jacob Zuma defies an ultimatum from South Africa’s ruling ANC party to resign within 48 hours. 1/22 A bout of politics breaks out in Germany, revolting against the “Merkel method.†2/22 The Senate's immigration debate, currently underway, will test the willingness of conservative
Trump blocks declassification of Democrats' rebuttal to the Republican memo, asks the Justice Dept. to work with lawmakers to revise their statement. Dozens of White House staff still don't have permanent security clearances—if accelerated, it takes up to six weeks. Desalination could avert Cape Town'
Trump blocks declassification of Democrats' rebuttal to the Republican memo, asks the Justice Dept. to work with lawmakers to revise their statement. 1/15 Dozens of White House staff still don't have permanent security clearances—if accelerated, it takes up to six weeks. 2/15 Desalination could
The 2018 Winter Olympics have begun. Here’s a story about the unified flag marched under by North and South Korea. The US government briefly shut down again last night after Kentucky’s junior senator drew attention to the GOP’s hypocrisy on deficit spending—but the deal was never
The 2018 Winter Olympics have begun. Here’s a story about the unified flag marched under by North and South Korea. 1/16 The US government briefly shut down again last night after Kentucky’s junior senator drew attention to the GOP’s hypocrisy on deficit spending—but the deal
To avoid another government shutdown, Congress must pass a short-term spending bill by midnight tonight. The Senate is expected to approve a bipartisan deal today that includes military budget increases and an additional CHIP funding extension—but, notably, no DACA protections. The bipartisan bill’s passage is less certain in
To avoid another government shutdown, Congress must pass a short-term spending bill by midnight tonight. The Senate is expected to approve a bipartisan deal today that includes military budget increases and an additional CHIP funding extension—but, notably, no DACA protections. 1/23 The bipartisan bill’s passage is less
Senate leaders say they’re close to brokering a two-year budget deal. Meanwhile, the President tells the Defense Department he wants a military parade. 1/19 About 4,000 former Trump University students should begin to receive payments from a $25 million settlement. 2/19 The President's advisors
Senate leaders say they’re close to brokering a two-year budget deal. Meanwhile, the President tells the Defense Department he wants a military parade. About 4,000 former Trump University students should begin to receive payments from a $25 million settlement. The President's advisors may advise going back
Markets were choppy this morning after the past two days of declines on Wall Street and abroad. One very good (or awful, depending) reason: The global economy is strong, so banks don't need to stimulate growth, which means interest rates are likely to increase (including for corporations), as
Markets were choppy this morning after the past two days of declines on Wall Street and abroad. One very good (or awful, depending) reason: The global economy is strong, so banks don't need to stimulate growth, which means interest rates are likely to increase (including for corporations), as
John Kelly was less enthusiastic than Mr. Trump about the Nunes memo, possibly because the last paragraph undermines the Right’s Trump-Russia conspiracy theory. Here's an annotated version. 1/21 Former Director of the FBI Comey on the memo: “That’s it?†2/21 Being in
John Kelly was reportedly less enthusiastic than Mr. Trump about releasing the Nunes memo, possibly because the last paragraph undermines the Right’s Trump-Russia conspiracy theory. Comey on the memo: “That’s it?” Being in Congress these days is less about policy, and definitely less fun. That’s bad because
This morning at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., Phil the groundhog saw his shadow, prognosticating six more weeks of winter. Punxsutawney Phil is less accurate than a coin flip in predicting the end of winter. Every Feb. 2, Woodstock, Ill., where Groundhog Day was filmed, celebrates the movie
This morning at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., Phil the groundhog saw his shadow, prognosticating six more weeks of winter. 1/19 Punxsutawney Phil is less accurate than a coin flip in predicting the end of winter. 2/19 Every Feb. 2, Woodstock, Ill., where Groundhog Day was
If we’re being honest, the month of January felt like an entire year of news in 31 days. So rather than bring you this morning’s dump of headlines about the GOP/FBI memo, here are three of our favorite thought-provoking articles about the bigger story: 1) “Trump'
If we’re being honest, the month of January felt like an entire year of news in 31 days. So rather than bring you this morning’s dump of headlines about the GOP/FBI memo, here are three of our favorite thought-provoking articles about the bigger story: 1) “Trump&
FEMA blindsides Puerto Rico by announcing that, as of today, its food and water shipments to the island will cease, citing the recovery of the commercial supply chain. At current rates of depletion, Cape Town will turn off water taps in April—exacerbating socioeconomic divides. The director of the CDC
FEMA blindsides Puerto Rico by announcing that, as of today, its food and water shipments to the island will cease, citing the recovery of the commercial supply chain. 1/27 At current rates of depletion, Cape Town will turn off water taps in April—exacerbating socioeconomic divides. 2/27 The
Republicans vote to release a secret Republican memo about the FBI—though not a secret Democrat memo—no matter that the Justice Department says releasing it is "extraordinarily reckless." A Taliban suicide bomber used ambulances to kill over 100 people in the worst attack in Kabul in months.
Republicans vote to release a secret memo drafted by Republicans—though not a secret memo drafted by Democrats—no matter the Justice Department's opinion that such a release would be "extraordinarily reckless." 1/18 Here’s what we know so far about Trump’s first State
This year's flu is the worst since 2009—and hospitalizations just jumped, which likely means deaths will increase. Scientists now posit Earth's first eon, the Hadean—thought to be "dark and hellish"—may still have supported life. To aid astronauts on Mars, lest they
This year's flu is the worst since 2009—and hospitalizations just jumped, which likely means deaths will increase. 1/17 Scientists now posit Earth's first eon, the Hadean—thought to be "dark and hellish"—may still have supported life. 2/17 To aid
President Trump ordered special counsel Robert Mueller fired back in June, but he backpedaled after White House counsel Don McGahn threatened to resign. Here are five takeaways from the Mueller-firing news and lots of Beltway Twitter chatter. “There are good reasons to be critical of how Comey handled the Clinton
President Trump ordered special counsel Robert Mueller fired back in June, but he backpedaled after White House counsel Don McGahn threatened to resign. 1/15 Here are five takeaways from the Mueller-firing news and lots of Beltway Twitter chatter. 2/15 “There are good reasons to be critical of
Trump sends mixed signals to the nearly 700,000 Dreamers, saying he would be open to citizenship after "10 to 12 years," just days after killing a bipartisan plan—in his "shithole" meeting—that offered a path to citizenship. Dara Lind on Twitter: "It is
Trump sends mixed signals to the nearly 700,000 Dreamers, saying he would be open to citizenship after "10 to 12 years," just days after killing a bipartisan plan—in his "shithole" meeting—that offered a path to citizenship. 1/21 Dara Lind on Twitter: "
The government shutdown only broke because Senators had to wait their turn to hold Susan Collins's "talking stick." Democrats fail at Republican tactics—like government shutdowns—because they don't hate the government sufficiently. Illinois’s Sen. Duckworth says she’s expecting her second child
The government shutdown only broke because Senators had to wait their turn to hold Susan Collins's "talking stick." 1/17 Democrats fail at Republican tactics—like government shutdowns—because they don't hate the government sufficiently. 2/17 Illinois’s Sen. Duckworth says she’s
The government shutdown ends (for the next three weeks, anyway) and the big question is: Who won? Democrats or Republicans? This question represents everything wrong with our current politics, in which we've become preoccupied with rooting for one side and lambasting the other, to the point that actual
The government shutdown ends (for the next three weeks, anyway) and the big question is: Who won? Democrats or Republicans? This question represents everything wrong with our current politics, in which we've become preoccupied with rooting for one side and lambasting the other, to the point that actual
The Republicans have become the first party in American history to control the White House and both houses of Congress and manage to shutter the government. Here’s what’s open, what’s not. And here’s a handy list of Hill reporters to follow on Twitter for the latest
The Republicans have become the first party in American history to control the White House and both houses of Congress and manage to shutter the government. 1/13 Here is what’s open, what’s not. And here’s a handy list of Hill reporters to follow on Twitter for
To avoid a government shutdown, the House has passed a stopgap spending bill. Now the Senate must approve the measure by midnight tonight—which looks unlikely. Even as the GOP tries to pin the shutdown on Democrats, three Republican senators say they won't approve the measure. Here'
To avoid a government shutdown, the House has passed a stopgap spending bill. Now the Senate must approve the measure by midnight tonight—which looks unlikely. 1/19 Even as the GOP tries to pin the shutdown on Democrats, three Republican senators say they won't approve the measure.
In the world's coldest town—Oymyakon, Russia—a bonfire must be lit to warm the ground before burying any dead bodies. About 2,000 people live in a Paris replica in China, many of them working in a nearby France-themed amusement park. The US plans an open-ended military
In the world's coldest town—Oymyakon, Russia—a bonfire must be lit to warm the ground before burying any dead bodies. 1/20 About 2,000 people live in a Paris replica in China, many of them working in a nearby France-themed amusement park. 2/20 The US
After a federal judge revived most of the DACA protections on Jan. 9, Sessions announced yesterday that the DoJ would sidestep the US Court of Appeals and take the case directly to the Supreme Court. Hoping to avoid a government shutdown, and with immigration at an impasse, Congressional Republicans bait
After a federal judge revived most of the DACA protections on Jan. 9, Sessions announced yesterday that the DoJ would sidestep the US Court of Appeals and take the case directly to the Supreme Court. 1/15 Hoping to avoid a government shutdown, and with immigration at an impasse, Congressional
Bannon meets behind closed doors with the House panel on Russia. Trump sends a preemptive tweet, “The Russian Collusion Hoax is dead.” African immigrants who come to the US are generally the continent's best and brightest, with superior educations. Photographs of streets across America named after Dr. Martin
Steve Bannon meets behind closed doors with the House panel on Russia. Mr. Trump sends a preemptive tweet, “The Russian Collusion Hoax is dead.†1/15 African immigrants who come to the US are generally the continent's best and brightest, with superior educations. 2/15 Photographs
Whether New Yorkers recover from opioids at home or must travel to a clinic correlates with race and income. “It’s the prescription thing that’s really severely scary to me. It’s the scariest. I had to go to the street to get it. We were just partying, and
Whether New Yorkers recover from opioids at home or must travel to a clinic correlates with race and income. 1/15 “It’s the prescription thing that’s really severely scary to me. It’s the scariest. I had to go to the street to get it. We were
Trump denies calling Haiti, El Salvador, and all of Africa “shithole countries”—a comment even the White House didn’t try to claw back. “This is CNN Tonight, I’m Don Lemon. The president of the United States is racist. A lot of us already knew that.” The Guardian offers
Trump denies calling Haiti, El Salvador, and all of Africa “shithole countriesâ€â€”a comment even the White House hasn’t tried to claw back. 1/22 “This is CNN Tonight, I’m Don Lemon. The president of the United States is racist. A lot of us already
Last fall, a crowdsourced spreadsheet titled “Shitty Media Men” began privately circulating among women in media. A new variation on a whisper network, it named powerful men in media who were known by female colleagues to have engaged in inappropriate—sometimes criminal—sexual behavior. As the spreadsheet grew longer and
Last fall, a crowdsourced spreadsheet titled “Shitty Media Men†began privately circulating among women in media. A new variation on a whisper network, it named powerful men in media who were known by female colleagues to have engaged in inappropriate—sometimes criminal—sexual behavior. As the spreadsheet grew longer
At least 13 are dead from mudslides in Southern California, the region’s “worst-case scenario” after the recent fires. Canyon dwellers in California defend their way of life—offline and tightly knit—no matter what the weather brings. Among recent extreme weather events, here is the Sahara Desert in northwest
At least 13 are dead from mudslides in Southern California, the region’s “worst-case scenario†after the recent fires. 1/18 Canyon dwellers in California defend their way of life—offline and tightly knit—no matter what the weather brings. 2/18 Among recent extreme weather events, here is
The Trump administration says the 200,000-plus Salvadorans living in the US under temporary protection for the past 17 years must leave by September 2019. Some US-born children of Salvadorans ordered to depart may choose to remain in the US, though many will leave for a country they've
The Trump administration says the 200,000-plus Salvadorans living in the US under temporary protection for the past 17 years must leave by September 2019. 1/18 Some US-born children of Salvadorans ordered to depart may choose to remain in the US, though many will leave for a country they&
The White House wants $33 billion over the next decade to start building Trump’s border wall. To defend himself from this week’s furious fire, Trump calls himself a "genius.... and a very stable genius at that." Headline of the week? "White House Staff Forced to
The White House wants $33 billion over the next decade to start building Trump’s border wall, and GOP senators want an inquiry into the author of the Trump dossier. 1/12 To defend himself from this week’s furious fire, Trump calls himself a "genius.... and a very
The winter "bomb cyclone" currently battering the Northeast is expected to make life miserable—and for many, life-threatening—over the next few days. Photos of the treacherous conditions, including lots of people who should be inside. Ordering food delivery during dangerous weather is unethical—as is the phone
The winter "bomb cyclone" currently battering the Northeast is expected to make life miserable—and for many, life-threatening—over the next few days. 1/15 Photos of the treacherous conditions, including lots of people who should be inside. 2/15 Ordering food delivery during dangerous weather is unethicalâ€
“They’re going to crack Don Junior like an egg on national TV.” In a new book by Michael Wolff, Steve Bannon says a 2016 meeting between Trump’s son and the Russians was “treasonous,” “unpatriotic,” “bad shit.” Trump’s lawyer hits Bannon with a cease-and-desist letter for violating a
“They’re going to crack Don Junior like an egg on national TV.†In a new book by Michael Wolff, Steve Bannon says the 2016 meeting between Trump’s son and the Russians was “treasonous,†“unpatriotic,†“bad shit.†1/20 Trump’s
A new year, a new Rooster. Introducing the shortlist, judges, commentators, and Zombie poll for the 14th edition of The Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
North Korea reopens its border telephone line with the South—a dramatic reversal of relations and probably a clever strategic move to thwart the White House. If you thought Trump couldn’t make himself look any more pathetic: after Kim Jong Un mentioned a nuclear button on his desk, Trump
North Korea reopens its border telephone line with the South—a dramatic reversal of relations and probably a clever strategic move to thwart the White House. 1/16 If you thought Trump couldn’t make himself look any more pathetic: after Kim Jong Un mentioned a nuclear button on his
This is the way the year ends: with a fade-out.
Yes, 2017 went off the rails. But what pushed it? We asked 29 of our favorite journalists, writers, and thinkers: What were the most important events of the past 12 months, and what were the least?
Each year, we ask our editors for their favorite charities and nonprofits to support. You’ll find them below. And if you haven’t become a TMN Supporting Member yet, please join us. We’re grateful for your support. Research shows that when you give cash directly to the extreme
Each year, we ask our editors for their favorite charities to support. You’ll find them below. And if you haven’t become a TMN Supporting Member yet, please join us. We’re grateful for your support. Research shows that when you give cash directly to the extreme poor, they
Yesterday at the UN, four of the five largest recipients of US financial aid defied Trump's threat to cut their benefits, and voted against recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Compared to last year, the total number of ACA signups was down by just 4%, despite cuts
Yesterday at the UN, four of the five largest recipients of US financial aid defied Trump's threat to cut their benefits, and voted against recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital. 1/14 Compared to last year, the total number of ACA signups was down by just 4%
The United Nations General Assembly holds a rare emergency special session to vote on a resolution calling for Trump’s Jerusalem declaration to be withdrawn. Trump wants it known that he’s taking it personally. For the first time in history, more women are going to medical school than men.
The United Nations General Assembly holds a rare emergency special session to vote on a resolution calling for Trump’s Jerusalem declaration to be withdrawn. Trump wants it known that he’s taking it personally. 1/15 It's that jolly time of year when China jails free-speech activists
Early this morning, the Senate passed the GOP tax bill, which now has a clear path to Trump's desk before Christmas. Because it's a gift. But not for you. How Republicans passed their deeply unpopular tax reform: Fueled by the ACA repeal defeat, they rejected Congressional
Early this morning, the Senate passed the GOP tax bill, which now has a clear path to Trump's desk before Christmas. Because it's a gift. But not for you. 1/20 How Republicans passed their deeply unpopular tax reform: Fueled by the ACA repeal defeat, they
The GOP tax bill advances to the House floor for a vote. On average, the cuts for highest earners go way beyond those of people making less. 1/16 Analysis of 27 extreme weather events from 2016 found that human-caused climate change was a “significant driver” for 21 of them.
The GOP tax bill advances to the House floor for a vote. On average, the cuts for highest earners go way beyond those of people making less. 1/16 Analysis of 27 extreme weather events from 2016 found that human-caused climate change was a “significant driver†for 21 of
After last-minute changes to appease Rubio and Corker, the Senate GOP's tax bill now appears to have the votes to pass next week. Here's what's in the final (for now) bill. US executions continue to remain at a 25-year low, as does public support
After last-minute changes to appease Rubio and Corker, the Senate GOP's tax bill now appears to have the votes to pass next week. Here's what's in the final (for now) bill. 1/15 US executions continue to remain at a 25-year low, as does
The Kremlin feels like it got a nice return on the half-million spent on defeating Putin's enemy: Hillary Clinton. “Sharp power” is how authoritarian regimes “coerce and manipulate opinion abroad.” China's vast surveillance network only needs seven minutes to track down a BBC reporter. A German
The Kremlin feels like it got a nice return on the half-million spent on defeating Putin's enemy: Hillary Clinton. 1/14 “Sharp power†is how authoritarian regimes like China “coerce and manipulate opinion abroad.†2/14 China's vast surveillance network only needs seven
Starting at 10:30 a.m. ET today, the FCC will meet to vote and—most likely—kill net neutrality. Here's where to watch, and here's a thread on what you can do to make your voice heard before and after the vote. As the Republican
Starting at 10:30 a.m. ET today, the FCC will meet to vote and—most likely—kill net neutrality. Here's where to watch, and here's a thread on what you can do to make your voice heard before and after the vote. 1/15 As
The contest to replace Attorney General Jeff Sessions in the Senate is finally over, and the Democrat won. The president says the loss in Alabama, despite his endorsement, is no big deal; after all, he saw it coming. A Democrat hasn’t won a Senate seat in Alabama in almost
The contest to replace Attorney General Jeff Sessions in the Senate is finally over, and the Democrat won. Here's a tally of the contest's winners and losers. 1/17 The president says the loss in Alabama, despite his endorsement, is no big deal; after all, he
Ahead of today's special Senate election in Alabama between Roy Moore and Doug Jones, Alabama’s Supreme Court has stayed a judge's order that all ballots, which Alabama typically destroys after an election, must be preserved for at least six months. As news broke of yesterday&
Ahead of today's special Senate election in Alabama between Roy Moore and Doug Jones, Alabama's Supreme Court has stayed a judge's order that all ballots, which Alabama typically destroys after an election, must be preserved for at least six months. 1/19 As news
The five-day siege of Southern California is beginning to come into focus, with more than 500 structures burned. An LATimes photographer explains how to shoot wildfires. Human rights activists in Singapore explain what it’s like to work in a country where conversations can be illegal. Authoritarian governments and despots
The five-day fire siege of Southern California is beginning to come into focus, with more than 500 structures burned. A Los Angeles Times photographer explains how to shoot wildfires. 1/16 Human rights activists in Singapore explain what it’s like to work in a country where conversations can be
This is Andrew and Rosecrans. We've been publishing TMN since 1999 and the Tournament of Books since 2005, and we need your help (here's why). Please join our community of Sustaining Members. There are multiple support tiers available, and you'll also receive a 50%
Congress passed a two-week spending measure to keep the government open. The next shutdown deadline is the Friday before Christmas, when lawmakers will be leave for home, placing additional pressure on solving the partisan budget impasse. In a rare outcome, a white police officer who killed a black citizen has
Congress passed a two-week spending measure to keep the government open. The next shutdown deadline is the Friday before Christmas, when lawmakers will be leave for home, placing additional pressure on solving the partisan budget impasse. 1/19 In a rare outcome, a white police officer who killed a black
The world condemns Trump’s Jerusalem announcement, and protests break out in Gaza and the West Bank. Thanks to Trump, people are spending more on newspapers, social advocacy groups, and civil and social organizations. What the Republicans have learned from the White House: You can say anything you want; the
The world condemns Trump’s Jerusalem announcement. Protests break out in Gaza and the West Bank. 1/19 Thanks to Trump, people are spending more on newspapers, social advocacy groups, and civil and social organizations. 2/19 What the Republicans have learned from Trump: You can say anything you want;
Rohingya refugees, hurricane debris, the President getting the finger: here are the top 25 news photos of 2017. Wind-driven wildfires burn out of control around Los Angeles; officials predict a tough battle for the rest of this week. “The President stole your land.” Patagonia will sue the White House over
Rohingya refugees, hurricane debris, the President getting the finger: here are the top 25 news photos of 2017. 1/16 Wind-driven wildfires burn out of control around Los Angeles; officials predict a tough battle for the rest of the week. 2/16 “The President stole your land.†Fleece-maker
Our resident board-game expert picks the best new games released this year.
Deutsche Bank, Mr. Trump’s biggest lender, hands some of Trump's private banking information over to Mueller Alas, none of Trump’s tweets this year made Twitter’s list of most retweeted, though three of Obama’s did. “The Mormons came into this area in 1879. Since the
Deutsche Bank, Mr. Trump’s biggest lender, hands some of Trump's private banking information over to Mueller. 1/14 Alas, none of Trump’s tweets this year made Twitter’s list of most retweeted, though three of Obama’s did. 2/14 “The Mormons came into this
Early this morning, Senate Republicans passed their tax bill, much to the joy of plutocrats and those who believe they're just a lottery ticket away from becoming one. A pair of economists, one from each side of the aisle, discuss the finer points of the GOP tax plan—
Early this morning, Senate Republicans passed their tax bill, much to the joy of plutocrats and those who believe they're just a lottery ticket away from becoming one. 1/14 A pair of economists, one from each side of the aisle, discuss the finer points of the GOP
Using dynamic scoring, the Joint Committee on Taxation says the GOP’s tax bill will cost America about a trillion dollars. Some Republicans consider that a bit of a snag. The Irish Stock Exchange sold for $163 million—about the same as what some top bankers were paid last year.
Using dynamic scoring, the Joint Committee on Taxation says the GOP’s tax bill will cost America about a trillion dollars. Some Republicans consider that a bit of a snag. 1/15 The Irish Stock Exchange was sold for $163 million—about the same as what some top bankers were
White House officials say they're planning to replace Tillerson with Pompeo, whose role as CIA head would be filled by Tom Cotton. Among our endangered English words: “proditomania,” the feeling that everyone around you is a traitor. In other news today, Trump has more inflammatory tweets and more
White House officials say they're planning to replace Tillerson with Pompeo, whose role as CIA head would be filled by Tom Cotton. 1/13 Among our endangered English words: “proditomania,†the feeling that everyone around you is a traitor. 2/13 In other news today, Trump
North Korea’s missile test, demonstrating that Washington D.C. is technically within its reach, puts new strain on US-China relations. A Russian television show in Syria shows grateful Syrians naming their babies after Vladimir Putin. A woman approached the Washington Post with a fake story about Roy Moore, all
North Korea’s latest missile test, demonstrating that Washington D.C. is now technically within reach, puts new strain on US-China relations. 1/18 A Russian television show in Syria shows grateful Syrians naming their babies after Vladimir Putin. 2/18 A woman approached the Washington Post with a fake
An explanation of the legal tug of war that's left the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau with two acting directors, one newly appointed by Trump and the other tapped by the departing director. Three years ago, Trump's CFPB appointee referred to the Bureau—which is designed to
An explanation of the legal tug of war that's left the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau with two acting directors, one newly appointed by Trump and the other tapped by the departing director. 1/22 Three years ago, Trump's CFPB appointee referred to the Bureau—which is
ISIS has yet to claim responsibility for the attack on a Sufi mosque in Egypt that killed 305. TIME says it didn’t offer its “Man of the Year” cover to Mr. Trump, as Mr. Trump claims. Meanwhile, Jeff Bezos is worth over $100 billion, thanks to Black Friday. Twenty-five
ISIS has yet to claim responsibility for the attack on a Sufi mosque in Egypt that killed 305. 1/17 TIME says it didn’t offer “Man of the Year†to Mr. Trump, as Mr. Trump claims. Meanwhile, Jeff Bezos is worth over $100 billion, thanks to Black Friday.
Your Headlines Edition will be off for the next two days, and will return on Saturday, stuffed with dressing and deeply discounted smart TVs. After Zimbabwe's government had already begun the impeachment process, Robert Mugabe announced he would resign as president, ending 37 years of rule. Mugabe will
Your Headlines newsletter will be off for the next two days, and will return on Saturday, stuffed with dressing and deeply discounted smart TVs. After Zimbabwe's government had already begun the impeachment process, Robert Mugabe announced he would resign as president, ending 37 years of rule. 1/20
Putin hugs Assad during a rare meeting at a resort on the Black Sea. Putin promised to call Trump afterward to let him know how it went. Justice Department takes “a surprisingly tough stance” by attempting to stop AT&T Inc.’s takeover of Time Warner Inc. Harvard’s
Putin hugs Assad during a rare meeting at a resort on the Black Sea. He promised to call Trump to let him know how it went. 1/16 Justice Department takes “a surprisingly tough stance†in its attempt to stop AT&T Inc.’s takeover of Time
Here they are: our favorite, Rooster-worthy novels from 2017. A few weeks from now we'll narrow these down to our final list for the 2018 Tournament of Books presented by Field Notes.
US-led airstrikes in Iraq have killed many more civilians than we hear about—31 times more, in fact. Here’s the story of one man who found out why his family was targeted. Cards Against Humanity buys land on the US-Mexico border, hoping to thwart Mr. Trump's plans
US-led airstrikes in Iraq have killed many more civilians than we hear about—31 times more, in fact. Here’s the story of one man who found out why his family was targeted. 1/16 Cards Against Humanity buys land on the US-Mexico border, hoping to thwart Mr. Trump'
House Republicans passed their tax overhaul yesterday; the Senate will reconvene after Thanksgiving to vote on its own package. Under the new GOP plan, the only clear winners are businesses. While many Americans will receive tax cuts, about 13 million middle-class households will pay more. And by eliminating the ACA&
House Republicans passed their tax overhaul yesterday; the Senate will reconvene after Thanksgiving to vote on its own package. 1/23 Under the new GOP plan, the only clear winners are businesses. While many Americans will receive tax cuts, about 13 million middle-class households will pay more. And by eliminating
More women say Roy Moore made unwanted overtures when they were young. He pulled one of them out of trigonometry class to ask her on a date. Republicans who say they believe the women accusing Moore won't talk about the women who accuse Mr. Trump. (They just want
More women say Roy Moore made unwanted overtures when they were young. He pulled one of them out of trigonometry class to ask her on a date. 1/17 Republicans who believe the women accusing Moore still won't talk about the women who accuse Mr. Trump. (They just
In an apparent coup, Zimbabwe's military has taken custody of President Robert Mugabe, the country's only leader since its independence in 1980. The takeover seems to be in response to Mugabe's removal of the vice president, a move that elevated his wife, Grace Mugabe,
In an apparent coup, Zimbabwe's military has taken custody of President Robert Mugabe, the country's only leader since its independence in 1980. The takeover seems to be in response to Mugabe's removal of the vice president, a move that elevated his wife, Grace Mugabe,
Bob Corker convenes a Senate hearing to examine Trump's authority to deploy nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Sessions may investigate his boss's list of "conservative concerns"—what some call "a fog machine." The Kremlin turns its disinformation machine to Catalonia's political crisis,
Bob Corker convenes a Senate hearing to examine Trump's authority to deploy nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Sessions may investigate his boss's list of "conservative concerns"—what some call "a fog machine." 1/20 The Kremlin turns its disinformation machine to Catalonia'
A five-year study of online news chatter confirms that people’s opinions can shift to fit news outlets' ideologies. All those "Trump country" articles won't predict election outcomes; they only reflect our current political state. “Look even further into the wilder weeds of this world,
A five-year study of online news chatter confirms that people’s opinions can shift to fit news outlets' ideologies. 1/17 All those "Trump country" articles won't predict election outcomes; they only reflect our current political state. 2/17 “Look even further into the
White House says Trump and Putin won’t meet officially in Vietnam. Putin’s staff says they’ll meet “on the sidelines.” Profiles of six new stars in the Democratic party, who were inspired by Mr. Trump to run for office and won big this week. A breakdown of Trump&
White House says Trump and Putin won’t meet officially in Vietnam. Putin’s staff says they’ll meet “on the sidelines.†1/20 Profiles of six new stars in the Democratic party, who were inspired by Mr. Trump to run for office and won big this week.
Today Senate Republicans are likely to reveal their tax plan, which is expected to eliminate deduction of state and local taxes and partially remove the estate tax. The new House GOP tax plan violates the Byrd Rule, which prohibits massive deficit increases over the next 10 years. Maine voters chose
Today Senate Republicans are likely to reveal their tax plan, which is expected to eliminate deduction of state and local taxes and partially remove the estate tax. 1/21 The new House GOP tax plan violates the Byrd Rule, which prohibits massive deficit increases over the next 10 years. 2/
Democrat Ralph Northam won the Virginia’s governor race last night amid a broad sweep for Democrats. Interesting stories from the elections: Maine expanded Medicaid by ballot initiative; Danica Roem of Virginia became America’s first openly transgender state legislator, defeating an avowed homophobe; Vi Lyles is Charlotte’s first
Democrat Ralph Northam won the Virginia’s governor race last night amid a broad sweep for Democrats. 1/20 Interesting stories from the elections: Maine expanded Medicaid by ballot initiative; Danica Roem of Virginia became America’s first openly transgender state legislator, defeating an avowed homophobe; Vi Lyles is Charlotteâ€
Despite the Trump administration's attempts to cripple ACA awareness, signups doubled on the first day of open enrollment, compared to 2016. In a reversal of Bush and Obama policies, the Dept. of Homeland Security says in 2019 it will end the temporary protected status of Nicaraguans living in
Despite the Trump administration's attempts to cripple ACA awareness, signups doubled on the first day of open enrollment, compared to 2016. 1/21 In a reversal of Bush and Obama policies, the Dept. of Homeland Security says in 2019 it will end the temporary protected status of Nicaraguans
Lost amidst all of this week's Facebook news was its admission that it now has around 270 million fake accounts. In 2012, when Facebook hit one billion users, many noted that if it were a country, it would be the third largest in the world. Now its fraudulent
Lost amidst all of this week's Facebook news was its admission that it now has around 270 million fake accounts. In 2012, when Facebook hit one billion users, many noted that if it were a country, it would be the third largest in the world. Now its fraudulent
The GOP’s new tax bill is both a “sensible framework” and a “deficit-exploding tax cut” for corporations and the wealthy. Here’s what it means for different income brackets. Democrats have been spreading lies about the tax plan on social media, when most families making under $86k will get
The GOP’s new tax bill is both a “sensible framework†and a “deficit-exploding tax cut†for corporations and the wealthy. Here’s what it means for different income brackets. 1/19 Democrats have been spreading lies about the tax plan on social media, when most families making
Trump's call to execute the terrorist behind this week's attack in New York may compromise the court case, since defense attorneys could argue it prevents the defendant from receiving a fair trial. ISIS has not claimed responsibility for the New York attack—its standard operating procedure
Trump's call to execute the terrorist behind this week's attack in New York may compromise the court case, since defense attorneys could argue it prevents the defendant from receiving a fair trial. 1/22 ISIS has not claimed responsibility for the New York attack—its standard
The investigation into yesterday's attack in New York expands overseas. Officials caution against talk of a bigger plot. Of minor interest: What happens when reporters on the street encounter an eyewitness. 1/19 Defiant New Yorkers enjoyed Halloween anyway. So did the Dodgers, forcing a deciding game seven
The investigation into yesterday's attack in New York expands overseas. Officials caution against talk of a bigger plot. Of minor interest: What happens when reporters on the street encounter an eyewitness. Defiant New Yorkers enjoyed Halloween anyway. So did the Dodgers, forcing a deciding game seven for the
The biggest news in yesterday's big news out of the Mueller investigation was that George Papadopoulos, a Trump campaign adviser, actively tried to court a relationship between his candidate and the Russians. Also entangled in the Manafort indictment is Tony Podesta—brother of Clinton campaign manager John—whose
The biggest news in yesterday's big news out of the Mueller investigation was that George Papadopoulos, a Trump campaign adviser, actively tried to court a relationship between his candidate and the Russians. 1/21 Also entangled in the Manafort indictment is Tony Podesta—brother of Clinton campaign manager
New aerial photos of North Korea show its network of prisons and labor camps, which Pyongyang says don't exist. 1/22 The China Post commissions five commemorative stamps to celebrate the country's most important technologies. Completely unrelated: ongoing revelations around who commissioned the Trump dossier. 2/
New aerial photos of North Korea show its network of prisons and labor camps, which Pyongyang says don't exist. The China Post commissions five commemorative stamps to celebrate the country's most important technologies. Completely unrelated: ongoing revelations around who commissioned the Trump dossier. American television is
Elections in western Kenya are postponed after protests prevent voting. Turnout is generally lower across the country. A list of highlights from an impromptu press conference shows, if nothing else, how much Trump truly loves the media. Related: A new bot can detect whether that's a bot or
Elections in western Kenya postponed after protests prevent voting. Turnout is generally lower across the country. 1/22 A list of highlights from an impromptu press conference shows, if nothing else, how much Trump truly loves the media. 2/22 Related: A new bot can detect whether that's
Whitefish Energy Holdings LLC—the two-person Montana company that has personal links to a major Trump donor and the Interior Dept. and that was awarded, circumventing competitive bidding, the contract to restore Puerto Rico's power—apologizes after a day of sparring with the San Juan mayor over Twitter
Whitefish Energy Holdings LLC—the two-person Montana company that has personal links to a major Trump donor and the Interior Dept. and that was awarded, circumventing competitive bidding, the contract to restore Puerto Rico's power—apologizes after a day of sparring with the San Juan mayor over Twitter
The Senate voted to kill the fine print that opens banks and credit card companies to class-action lawsuits, instead forcing consumers to seek arbitration to resolve financial disputes. Chinese President Xi Jinping, elevated to Mao status with the enshrinement of his words in the Communist Party of China's
The Senate voted to kill the fine print that opens banks and credit card companies to class-action lawsuits, instead forcing consumers to seek arbitration to resolve financial disputes. 1/17 Chinese President Xi Jinping, elevated to Mao status with the enshrinement of his words in the Communist Party of China&
Trump's executive order temporarily banning refugees expires today, as the White House preps stricter refugee admission procedures. The Pentagon provides a loose, detail-free timeline of the events in Niger, while local sources say US troops were almost certainly set up. As the caliphate dissolves in Iraq and Syria,
Trump's executive order temporarily banning refugees expires today, as the White House preps stricter refugee admission procedures. 1/21 The Pentagon provides a loose, detail-free timeline of the events in Niger, while local sources say US troops were almost certainly set up. 2/21 As the caliphate dissolves
In dealing with drug laws and lobbyists, Congress is way out of its league, and the result is legislation that's stripping law enforcement of its power to protect Americans from prescription drug abuse. Puerto Rico faced a pollution crisis even before Maria struck. Now with an urgent need
In dealing with drug laws and lobbyists, Congress is way out of its league, and the result is legislation that's stripping law enforcement of its power to protect Americans from prescription drug abuse. 1/17 Puerto Rico faced a pollution crisis even before Maria struck. Now with an
Senate passes a budget resolution protecting a planned $1.5 trillion tax cut—that's been crafted behind closed doors—from Democratic filibuster. In addition, the budget resolution passage leaves Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge open to oil exploration. New research finds that diseases caused by pollution—
Senate passes a budget resolution protecting a planned $1.5 trillion tax cut—that's been crafted behind closed doors—from Democratic filibuster. 1/23 In addition, the budget resolution passage leaves Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge open to oil exploration. 2/23 New research finds that
ISIS may be losing physical ground, but its roots in recruiting jihadists from afar are still intact, as shown by the months-long standoff, now quelled, in the Philippines. Spain says it will rule Catalonia directly from Madrid, further blocking the region's independence. The stock boom that Trump takes
ISIS may be losing physical ground, but its roots in recruiting jihadists from afar are still intact, as shown by the months-long standoff, now quelled, in the Philippines. 1/15 Spain says it will rule Catalonia directly from Madrid, further blocking the region's independence. 2/15 The stock
If passed, the bipartisan Senate deal would continue funding the ACA insurer subsidies and advertising outreach Trump wants to kill. US-backed forces have captured Raqqa, the "capital" of ISIS, which in the past three months has lost two of its three most important strongholds. The bombing in Mogadishu
If passed, the bipartisan Senate deal would continue funding the ACA insurer subsidies and advertising outreach Trump wants to kill. 1/17 US-backed forces have captured Raqqa, the "capital" of ISIS, which in the past three months has lost two of its three most important strongholds. 2/17
In Iraq, the government seized Kirkuk's resources to help starve moves for a separate Kurdish state. Part of the power of "me too" is it confirms ordinary people harass other ordinary people every single day. With the discovery of a wi-fi security flaw, most connections are
In Iraq, the government seized Kirkuk's resources to help starve moves for a separate Kurdish state. 1/22 Part of the power of "me too" is it confirms ordinary people harass other ordinary people every single day. 2/22 With the discovery of a wi-fi security
Crowdsourced maps are proving vital to aiding recovery teams in natural disasters, as conditions are ever-changing. Scientists develop a method to trap carbon dioxide emissions in basalt rock—before they can escape into the atmosphere. As participation in high school football continues to decline, many schools are closing their programs.
Crowdsourced maps are proving vital to aiding recovery teams in natural disasters, as conditions are ever-changing. 1/12 Scientists develop a method to trap carbon dioxide emissions in basalt rock—before they can escape into the atmosphere. 2/12 As participation in high school football continues to decline, many schools
The outcomes of Trump's executive order opening the door to healthcare deregulation aren't clear yet, since it all depends on how the new rules are formed. For a glimpse at what might happen, the "skimpy" plans Trump will approve are allowed in Tennessee and
The outcomes of Trump's executive order opening the door to healthcare deregulation aren't clear yet, since it all depends on how the new rules are formed. 1/12 For a glimpse at what might happen, the "skimpy" plans Trump will approve are allowed in
NBC says Trump wanted America's nukes to be increased tenfold, prompting Tillerson to call him “a moron.†Military advisors thankfully convinced Mr. Trump otherwise. 1/18 The White House responds to NBC’s scoop by threatening to yank NBC’s license. Fortunately, NBC doesn’t have
NBC says Trump wanted America's nukes to be increased tenfold, prompting Tillerson to call him “a moron.” Military advisors thankfully convinced Mr. Trump otherwise. The White House responds to NBC’s scoop by threatening to yank NBC’s license. Fortunately, NBC doesn’t have a license that Trump
New allegations against Harvey Weinstein, including several accounts of rape, are coming fast and furious. Many of Weinstein’s male allies remain silent, thought it doesn’t look like Ben Affleck’s going to escape unscathed. 1/13 Completely unrelated: Travel around the world in paper cutouts. (Because not everything
New allegations against Harvey Weinstein are coming fast and furious. Many of Weinstein’s male allies remain silent, thought it doesn’t look like Ben Affleck’s going to escape unscathed. Unrelated: Travel around the world in paper cutouts. (Because not everything can be about Weinstein.) Tokyo has spent billions
Fires in Northern California’s wine country kill at least 10, destroy at least 1,500 buildings. A family films their way out while evacuating a wildfire in Sonoma County. The Las Vegas massacre marked the 273rd mass shooting in the United States in 2017. “When I found out that
Fires in Northern California’s wine country kill at least 10, destroy at least 1,500 buildings. 1/16 A family films their way out while evacuating a wildfire in Sonoma County. 2/16 The Las Vegas massacre marked the 273rd mass shooting in the United States in 2017. 3/
“This is a very weak president in danger of complete failed presidency.†Mister Trump has yet another terrible week. 1/15 In case you missed it: Mattis, Mnuchin, and Tillerson have a "suicide pact" in case Trump tries to remove one of them. 2/15 Here
“This is a very weak president in danger of complete failed presidency.” Mister Trump had yet another terrible week. In case you missed it: Mattis, Mnuchin, and Tillerson have a "suicide pact" in place in case Trump tries to remove one of them. Here are all the Obama-era
The Nobel Peace Prize goes to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN). “I think Secretary Tillerson, Secretary Mattis and Chief of Staff Kelly are those people that help separate our country from chaos.” Getting in his dings on his way out the door, Tennessee Senator Corker is no
The Nobel Peace Prize goes to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN). 1/20 “I think Secretary Tillerson, Secretary Mattis and Chief of Staff Kelly are those people that help separate our country from chaos.†Getting in his dings on his way out the door, Tennessee
Kazuo Ishiguro, master of memory, is your Nobel Laureate for Literature for 2017. Fascinating stuff: How Kazuo Ishiguro wrote The Remains of the Day, with a little help from Tom Waits, in four weeks of extreme seclusion. Without offering any specifics, Trump says his administration will help wipe out Puerto
Kazuo Ishiguro, master of memory, is your Nobel Laureate for Literature for 2017. 1/12 Fascinating stuff: How Kazuo Ishiguro wrote The Remains of the Day, with a little help from Tom Waits, in four weeks of extreme seclusion. 2/12 Without offering any specifics, Trump says his administration will
The girlfriend of the gunman in the Las Vegas shooting was met last night by authorities at Los Angeles International Airport. 1/20 After the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Democrats occupied the House floor for a full day. After Vegas, with midterm elections coming up, they're setting
The girlfriend of the gunman in the Las Vegas shooting was met last night by authorities at Los Angeles International Airport. After the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Democrats occupied the House floor for a full day. After Vegas, with midterm elections coming up, they're setting their sights
Equifax's former CEO heads to congressional hearings as news emerges that an additional 2.5 million Americans were included in its data breach. The other side of gun control: Amid slumping gun sales under Trump, the White House may loosen gun export laws, and gun-maker stock prices rose
Equifax's former CEO heads to congressional hearings as news emerges that an additional 2.5 million Americans were included in its data breach. 1/21 The other side of gun control: Amid slumping gun sales under Trump, the White House may loosen gun export laws, and gun-maker stock
Police shut down more than half of the 2,315 schools in Catalonia designated as polling stations. Tens of thousands are expected to vote in a referendum that’s already been blocked by Spain’s constitutional court. Polar bears converge in the hundreds on a bowhead whale carcass in Siberia.
Police shut down more than half of the 2,315 schools in Catalonia designated as polling stations. Tens of thousands are expected to vote in a referendum that’s already been blocked by Spain’s constitutional court. 1/20 Polar bears converge in the hundreds on a bowhead whale carcass
The situation in Puerto Rico is spiraling into a full-blown health crisis. Nearly half of the population has no drinking water, many have no food, and communication remains spotty. With much of Puerto Rico's power grid still offline, the island’s health disaster compounds as medicines requiring refrigeration
The situation in Puerto Rico is spiraling into a full-blown health crisis. Nearly half of the population has no drinking water, many have no food, and communication remains spotty. 1/20 With much of Puerto Rico's power grid still offline, the island’s health disaster compounds as medicines
Florida governor Rick Scott heads to Puerto Rico to coordinate recovery efforts. A vast migration of Puerto Ricans to Florida is expected in the months ahead. Warned that Puerto Rico may become his Katrina, Trump waives the Jones Act. Hugh Hefner dies at home at 91, remembered by many for
Florida governor Rick Scott heads to Puerto Rico to coordinate recovery efforts. A "vast" migration of Puerto Ricans to Florida is expected in the months ahead. 1/22 Warned that Puerto Rico may become his Katrina, Trump temporarily waives the Jones Act. 2/22 Hugh Hefner dies at
Before-and-after aerial photos of Puerto Rico offer a glimpse at the extent of devastation. On the ground, the health situation is dire—only 20 hospitals are operational and 911 is offline. The Republican runoff to fill Jeff Sessions' Senate seat in Alabama became a proxy battle of Bannon v.
Before-and-after aerial photos of Puerto Rico offer a glimpse at the extent of devastation. On the ground, the health situation is dire—only 20 hospitals are operational and 911 is offline. 1/23 The Republican runoff to fill Jeff Sessions' Senate seat in Alabama became a proxy battle of
The cost of damage in Puerto Rico from Hurricane Maria may reach as much as $20 billion. Just 40 percent of islanders in Puerto Rico currently have potable water. Federal aid starts to flow, but Trump doesn’t much care for humanitarian crises offshore. Puerto Rico after Maria—in pictures.
The cost of damage in Puerto Rico from Hurricane Maria may reach as much as $20 billion. 1/16 Just 40 percent of islanders in Puerto Rico currently have potable water. 2/16 Federal aid starts to flow, but Trump doesn’t much care for humanitarian crises offshore. 3/16
Maria downed communication lines to half the island, as Puerto Rico tries to evacuate 70,000 residents downstream of a failing dam. “Consider the amount of standard daily doses of opioids consumed in Japan. And then double it. And then double it again. And then double it again. And then
Maria downed communication lines to half the island, as Puerto Rico tries to evacuate 70,000 residents downstream of a failing dam. 1/12 “Consider the amount of standard daily doses of opioids consumed in Japan. And then double it. And then double it again. And then double it
With Merkel poised to win a fourth term as chancellor, much of her appeal is that she advances successful systems over political agendas. Merkel's popularity is strongest among young voters, who view her handling of the refugee crisis as proof of her authenticity. A posthumous exam of the
With Merkel poised to win a fourth term as chancellor, much of her appeal is that she advances successful systems over political agendas. 1/19 Merkel's popularity is strongest among young voters, who view her handling of the refugee crisis as proof of her authenticity. 2/19 A
Hurricane Maria knocked out power on all of Puerto Rico, and it could take up to six months to restore service. Here’s how you can help the island's relief efforts. Photos from Maria's path of destruction across the Caribbean. Ways to help Mexico's
Hurricane Maria knocked out power on all of Puerto Rico, and it could take up to six months to restore service. Here’s how you can help the island's relief efforts. 1/16 Photos from Maria's path of destruction across the Caribbean. 2/16 Ways to
Maps and photos of the devastation from yesterday's 7.1-magnitude earthquake south of Mexico City. More than 200 people have now died in the earthquake, which occurred on the anniversary of the 1985 quake that killed 20,000 and resulted in Mexico upgrading its building codes and seismic
Maps and photos of the devastation from yesterday's 7.1-magnitude earthquake south of Mexico City. 1/19 More than 200 people have now died in the earthquake, which occurred on the anniversary of the 1985 quake that killed 20,000 and resulted in Mexico upgrading its building codes
Addressing the UN this morning, Trump says if Pyongyang continues its nuclear threats, the US "will have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea." No one yet knows what it means that the US wiretapped Manafort before and after the election or that federal agents told him
Addressing the UN this morning, Trump says if Pyongyang continues its nuclear threats, the US "will have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea." 1/18 No one yet knows what it means that the US wiretapped Manafort before and after the election or that federal agents
A suspect has been arrested in connection with the London Tube bombing. "He doesn't so much act as much as he merely behaves on camera." This video retrospective shows why Harry Dean Stanton, who died on Friday at the age of 91, is the G.O.
A suspect has been arrested in connection with the London Tube bombing. 1/15 "He doesn't so much act as much as he merely behaves on camera." This video retrospective shows why Harry Dean Stanton, who died on Friday at the age of 91, is the
Twenty-two were hospitalized after an IED was detonated at a tube station in Southwest London. No leads yet on who's behind the terror attack, but details are developing here. Theresa May and London police rebuke Trump for his morning terror tweets after the bombing. "Our spacecraft has
Twenty-two were hospitalized after an IED was detonated at a tube station in Southwest London. No leads yet on who's behind the terror attack, but details are developing here. 1/14 Theresa May and London police rebuke Trump for his morning terror tweets after the bombing. 2/14
Pelosi and Schumer say Trump has agreed to protect DREAMers, separate from his fantasies of a southern wall. "We send a report every morning to ICE—all the names of everybody that comes in." Some Motel 6 locations in Phoenix appear to be working directly with ICE to
Pelosi and Schumer say Trump has agreed to protect DREAMers, separate from his fantasies of a southern wall. 1/15 "We send a report every morning to ICE—all the names of everybody that comes in." Some Motel 6 locations in Phoenix appear to be working directly with
While considering appeals, the Supreme Court temporarily blocks US entry to some 24,000 refugees and puts a hold on Texas redistricting. A new tactic for ICE: going after relatives who let undocumented kids stay with them after entering the US. The Gates Foundation says the world is on course
While considering appeals, the Supreme Court temporarily blocks US entry to some 24,000 refugees and puts a hold on Texas redistricting. 1/19 A new tactic for ICE: going after relatives who let undocumented kids stay with them after entering the US. 2/19 The Gates Foundation says the
UN official accuses Myanmar of "ethnic cleansing" of Rohingya Muslims, driving hundreds of thousands from their homes following an attack by Rohingya militants. Bangladesh has opened its doors to the Rohingya, but its camps are now overwhelmed and conditions are quickly deteriorating. "It's survival mode
UN official accuses Myanmar of "ethnic cleansing" of Rohingya Muslims, driving hundreds of thousands from their homes following an attack by Rohingya militants. 1/16 Bangladesh has opened its doors to the Rohingya, but its camps are now overwhelmed and conditions are quickly deteriorating. 2/16 "It&
After making landfall in Cuba last night and slowing on its way to Florida, Hurricane Irma is back to a Category 5, and its outer bands are now reaching Miami-Dade County. Highway, airline, and marine maps show the sheer scale of Florida's mass evacuation—the largest ever in
After making landfall in Cuba last night and slowing on its way to Florida, Hurricane Irma is back to a Category 5, and its outer bands are now reaching Miami-Dade County. 1/27 Highway, airline, and marine maps show the sheer scale of Florida's mass evacuation—the largest
After leaving more than 60% of Puerto Rico without power, Hurricane Irma slows to a Category 4, and is on a path to reach the Florida Keys on Saturday and Miami on Sunday. "As soon as I went outside, I realized how panicked people were." Florida's
After leaving more than 60% of Puerto Rico without power, Hurricane Irma slows to a Category 4, and is on a path to reach the Florida Keys on Saturday and Miami on Sunday. 1/20 "As soon as I went outside, I realized how panicked people were." Florida&
After killing eight on St. Martin and leaving Barbuda "barely habitable," Hurricane Irma is now hitting Puerto Rico, and will likely reach Florida on Sunday and may reach Georgia and South Carolina on Monday. Aerial photos of St. Martin show the massive destruction left in Irma's
After killing eight on St. Martin and leaving Barbuda "barely habitable," Hurricane Irma is now hitting Puerto Rico, and will likely reach Florida on Sunday and may reach Georgia and South Carolina on Monday. 1/21 Aerial photos of St. Martin show the massive destruction left in Irma&
Hurricane Irma, now the strongest hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic, made landfall early this morning in Antigua and Barbuda and has now reached St. Martin, where it destroyed four of the island's "most solid" buildings. Forecasts show the hurricane will reach Puerto Rico midday today
Welcome to our new daily Headlines newsletter. (tl;dr: The map quiz will return!) You may have originally signed up when this was a Friday-only newsletter. If you’d prefer to continue receiving this newsletter only once a week (or if you’d like to tell us what you think
Following criticism of the Trumps’ Texas visit last Tuesday—hawking hats, wearing stilettos, not addressing or meeting with victims, claiming first-hand witnessing of damage—the president and first lady head to Houston for a do-over. The White House hedges on Trump’s promise to personally donate $1 million to Harvey
"Why would you want to leave a place you love just because your possessions get ruined?" Houstonians displaced by floods return to their homes to see what's left. Refinery and chemical plant damage and shutdowns on the Texas coast have released millions of pounds of pollutants
Long after floodwaters recede, Houstonians may deal with health problems due to mold, the effects of which "we're only beginning to understand." The world is so big, and we are so small: Aerial photos of the Houston flooding. A brief selection of the stories of everyday
It's time to announce which our of summer reads heads to the 2018 Tournament of Books.
"The state of Texas is about to undergo one of the largest recovery housing missions the nation has ever seen." Texas health officials rush tetanus vaccines to Houston, and say so far there's been no evidence of water contamination from industrial facilities. With a new Texas
Now that chief news curator Gen. Kelly chooses what information Trump does and doesn't see, right-wing sites worry their agendas won't reach the president. Hurricane Harvey is strengthening, forecasted to reach Category 3, and expected to make landfall in Texas tonight or early tomorrow. Houston is
Trump really could force a government shutdown over funding his wall. Here are all the scenarios, including their likeliness to occur. With the debt ceiling looming, if GOP leaders try to attach a new spending bill to a debt increase—and then there's a shutdown—it could spell
Despite reports of peaceful demonstrations, Phoenix riot police tear-gassed protesters outside the Trump rally without first ordering a dispersal. Officials say people were throwing rocks and bottles, and the situation was worsening. With Angola's president stepping down, the country is voting on its first new leader in 38
This week, we finish up our sixth and final book of the summer, Fever Dream, and it's your turn to tell us which of our summer reads wins a slot in the 2018 Tournament of Books.
Trump's Afghanistan strategy mostly resembles Obama's. Though by avoiding details on troop numbers or what success looks like, he may hope to avoid backlash from his supporters. Time and again, Bannon disrupted attempts to escalate in Afghanistan. Now that he's gone, Trump is listening
The president and first lady announce they won't attend the Kennedy Center Honors in December, one day after the entire Arts and Humanities Committee resigned—in a letter that spelled "RESIST" with the first letter of each paragraph. Bannon's departure marks the eighth top
The various Jefferson Davis Highways around the US were part of a larger scheme hatched in the 1910s to skew history with the "Lost Cause" falsehood, explains Erin Blakemore in a Twitter thread that's definitely worth your attention. Most Confederate monuments were erected in the first
After multiple domain registrars banned The Daily Stormer, the white supremacist website moved to the Russian internet—where it's now been banned as well. Cloudflare CEO explains why he kicked The Daily Stormer off its services: "The people behind the Daily Stormer are assholes and I’d
During his impromptu defense of white supremacists yesterday, Trump rhetorically questioned whether statues of slaveholders Washington and Jefferson are next for removal—which was probably inspired by an interview on Fox host Martha MacCallum's show the previous night. A group of congressional Democrats have asked a Yale School
We enter the home stretch of the 2017 Rooster Summer Reading Challenge with the brief, surreal Fever Dream, our final book of the season.
Last night, protesters tore down a Confederate statue in Durham, NC (video here). "The president is being advised by people who don't know what's going on." Emboldened by Charlottesville, white supremacists plan more marches. A reminder: Why it's the duty of every
Ahead of today's white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Va., torch-carrying marchers clashed with counter-protesters last night on the UVA campus. Trump's pugilism feeds North Korea's ongoing narrative that, as the victim of American bullying, it needs a nuclear program. “If Trump or his advisers
Google cancelled an all-hands meant to address the controversial diversity memo, after employees voiced concerns they might be harassed online for asking questions during the meeting. Long before CRISPR gives your descendants superhuman abilities, it could be used to edit pigs' DNA to grow human-ready replacement organs. A group
Pyongyang says its attack plan, still awaiting Kim Jong-un’s approval, involves four missiles that will fly over Japan and land 17 miles from Guam. (1/15) US officials say key to a pre-emptive attack is bombing North Korea’s missile-launch sites, which the military has been practicing since May.
Their accomplishments may be seldom recognized, and throughout history, they have had to fight for their achievements in the first place. Even today, their prominence in tech is not what it should be. Yet there are many women in technology who have changed the world. We think these women deserve
This week we're again joined by Rachel Khong as we discuss Temporary People's second half, which took this already unusual set of stories to some unexpected places.
The draft of the latest National Climate Assessment, a quadrennial report, is currently under review by the White House. The New York Times has obtained a copy of the report, which forecasts average US temperatures will increase by 5.0 to 7.5 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of the
We're very excited to announce that you're going to see some changes in this feed over the next few days. Most significantly, posts will increase dramatically—to around 15 or 20 a day, as opposed to one or so a week. This is because we'
The final month of the 2017 Rooster Summer Reading Challenge kicks off with the first book in our August matchup, Temporary People. All month long we'll be joined by Rachel Khong, in conversation with Nozlee Samadzadeh.
This week we discuss the conclusion of Marlena—and make the call on whether it or Ill Will makes it to our summer final on Aug. 30.
This week we continue our disturbing, foreboding summer reading with a discussion the first half of the disturbing, foreboding Marlena.
We're now at the halfway point in our July matchup—and the Rooster Summer Reading Challenge. This week we're joined by novelist Amelia Gray as we finish off Ill Will.
Novelist Amelia Gray joins us as we launch into our second month of the Rooster Summer Reading Challenge. With one competitor now slotted in for our end-of-summer final, we begin our July matchup: Ill Will v. Marlena.
We're at the end of our first month in the Rooster Summer Reading Challenge. Victor LaValle joins us to discuss the second half of The Night Ocean, and we decide which of our two novels from June heads to the end-of-summer final.
We've wrapped up our first book in the Rooster Summer Reading Challenge, and now we're waist-deep into The Night Ocean. Joining us to discuss is this month's judge, Victor LaValle, who, lucky for us, knows his Lovecraft.
We're back for another discussion in the Rooster Summer Reading Challenge presented by Field Notes, with this month's judge, Victor LaValle. Get ready for major spoilers—we're all the way through A Separation, and we need to talk.
Gather round for our inaugural discussion in the Rooster Summer Reading Challenge, presented by Field Notes. We're halfway through the first book, A Separation, with this month's judge, Victor LaValle.
Grab a beach towel, favorite cold beverage, and, most importantly, your books. Our Summer Reading Challenge begins now.
The battle over America’s wolves goes back centuries. In an excerpt from the forthcoming “Wolf Nation,” a journalist follows the release of a single family into the wild.
You can’t kill the Rooster.
The Attica prison uprising lasted five days. It took 45 years to get a more or less complete public account of what transpired—and only thanks to the efforts of a few heroically stubborn people.
It’s been a long, turbulent sleep, but now the Rooster wakes. Introducing the shortlist, judges, commentators, and Zombie poll for the 13th edition of The Morning News Tournament of Books.
The best music from 2016 meant more than usual this year.
The past year has been bad—but what made it bad, more or less? To find out, we asked a group of writers and thinkers: What were the most important events of 2016, and what were the least?
Make it through a family holiday gathering in one piece with these tactics from the FBI’s former lead international kidnapping negotiator.
The Obamas are the rare First Family to leave the White House stronger than when they arrived—never victims, even when hatefully victimized. Is it too late for the rest of us to learn how?
This year we read a lot of new fiction. We liked a lot of what we read, and here are our combined favorites. In March we'll narrow them to a final set of 16 novels to compete in the 2017 Tournament of Books presented by Field Notes.
Board games are always the answer. After a dinner party, when conversation dwindles. At family gatherings, when politics loom. When you want to give a good gift, but aren't sure where to start. Begin here, with 10 of the best from 2016.
A father writes his son a note on election night. It gets passed around their family and friends—and soon the entire world. What viral impact looks like, post-Trump.
What it’s like to be 14 in a new school, a new city away from home—and the wrong ethnicity in a divided country.
A new collection of pictures from blind photographers around the world suggests that blindness is itself a kind of seeing.
Each year, the Japanese government expects dozens of people to die from eating ill-prepared blowfish, and yet the dish remains a delicacy.
* State Dept. says $400m payment to Iran wasn't ransom, but was delayed to create "leverage" in hostage return. * Before and after views of Southern Louisiana, devastated this week by historic flooding. * Worried by Trumputin, Congress wants to obstruct removing Russian sanctionsenergy companies have already started.
* Hackers appear to have accessed the NSA's hacking tools, which the agency uses to hack into foreign governments. * "When Zillow starts warning about sea level rise, it may be time to start worrying about sea level rise." * Baltimore PD consistently applies sexual violence to coercive ends,
* Clinton team prepares for the first general election debate, anticipating Trump's Lewinsky attack. * Contrary to what the Clintons want to hear, there is no concrete evidence that discredits Broaddricks rape claims against the former President. * Once and for all: Donald Trump isnt winning because of factory
* Polls favor Clinton in the presidential election, but Wikileaks and unknown geopolitical events still threaten. * If Mr. Trump could make progress in reunifying Republicans, Mrs. Clinton would quickly find herself in a tighter race. * Ukraine's anti-corruption bureau discovers millions earmarked for Trump's campaign chief. * Diary of
* By pairing up with Bannon, Trump abandons centrists to focus on winning over those who already supported him. * The RNC can't pull funding from Trump without risking low turnout and losses down the ballot. * Paul Manafort further tied to facilitating secret lobbying by Ukrainian pro-Russian parties. * Squatter sells
* Trump cant win if he loses Florida, but he only has one field office and no visible footprint in the state. * Right-wing commentators cycle through baseless theories about Clintons dire health. * Despite his former insistence, Trump now says he was being sarcastic when he said Obama founded ISIS.
* Away from Rio, Brazil's Senate begins impeachment against Rousseff. * Philippines presidents latest bad idea: calling the US ambassador a gay son of a whore on TV. * There's always a bit of truth to a dangerous punch line, especially when it's joking about taking
* Trump suggests "second amendment people" should shoot Clinton if she becomes president. * Reminder: Trump hasn't spent a dime on TV advertising. * Momentum grows for boycotting the Dominican Republic, where racist immigration policy is deporting Haitians en masse. * Democrats in Congress break from Obama to condemn Brazil
* Senator Collins of Maine says she won't vote for Trump over "his constant stream of cruel comments." * Fifty former national security officials say Trump would be "the most reckless President in American history." * Nine beliefs of the neo-liberal. * How Paul Krugman made Trump possible:
* Former CIA chief endorses Clinton, calls Trump a threat to national security. * Sturm Ruger CEO links Clintons perceived opposition to gun rights to a spike in sales. * How a top GOP lawyer guided a Chinese-owned company into influencing US presidential politics. * Missouri public defender, fed up with a funding
* Filipino president links over a hundred government officials to the drug trade, encourages their extrajudicial murder. * Nuclear scientist Shahram Amiri hanged in Iran for spying for the US. * Russian athletes banned from competing at the Rio 2016 Paralympics following the country's doping scandal. * Weightlifting lost its integrity as
* Trump racks up $64 million in small donations during biggest fundraising period yet. * Citizens United turns the legal wall against foreign money in US elections into something more like a sieve. * Clinton could defeat Trump with capitalism, simply by pledging to grow the economy. * European-style welfare found to provide middle-class
* Since Philippines president Duterte took office last month, over 400 alleged drug traffickers have been killed. * Pivotal election in South Africa may wrest power away from the ANC. * Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega picks his wife to run as his vice presidential candidate. * Trump refuses to back Ryan or McCain'
* Philippines files landmark human rights case against 47 major carbon polluters. * International court orders former Chadian dictator Hissèn Habré to pay his 4700 victims up to $34,000 each. * Polls show that Turks are suspicious of every country that isn’t Turkey, but "levels of anti-Americanism are particularly high.
* Locals will be left with a still-toxic water supply after the Río Olympics. * The "Movement" is a vast Olympics bureaucracy that rewards higher-ups and treats athletes "like replaceable cogs." * Olympians complain about Río's lack of Pokémon Go. * Russia hosts the "Military Olympics,"
* How the Clinton campaign quelled an insurgency: with graciousness. * It took Trump to reveal that "the US electoral system is weak enough for the Russians to be able to influence it." * The Russian practice of “kompromat,” using information to smear politicians, is alive and well. * Government interference with
* Obama nearly steals Clinton's thunder at the DNC, and Joe Biden is ever his Biden-y self. * Hillary Clinton’s husband wore a fetching pantsuit at the DNC. * Trump encourages Russia to hack Clinton's emails, and contemplates endorsing its seizure of Crimea. * Later, Trump says he was
* Five takeaways from the night that Hillary became the first female major-party nominee in US history. * Confirming the FLOTUS's speech: Historians have long acknowledged the role of slaves in building the White House. * The joke that Sarah Silverman didn't use at the DNC: "This past
* Michele Obama wows in Philadelphia—the best person to credibly give a children-centered speech. * Brief history of glass ceilings broken in politics. * The Democrats aren't in disarray—it's Bernie's dead-enders who are in a snit. * Sixteen years ago, William F. Buckley cautioned the conservative
* Democrats open their convention in chaos over emails that show dirty dealings toward Sanders. * Clinton campaign manager says emails were leaked by Russian hackers "for the purpose of helping Donald Trump." * Following leak of emails, DNC chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz resigns. * White House hires hackers to handle relatively
* In Trump's big speech, he conjures up chaos, promises overnight solutions, and portrays himself as a messiah prepared to rescue the country. * Judging by Trump's global views, Clinton is now running against Putin. * The median age of a primetime Fox News viewer is 68, according to
* American airstrike in Syria kills scores of civilians mistaken for ISIS troops. * The Philippines sees wave of extrajudicial killings—but addicted victims elicit little sympathy. * Erdogan uses coup as excuse to clean up civil service, with a travel ban for academics thrown in for good measure. * Cruz's onstage
* Plagiarism blamed on Melania Trump herself, plus a ballet dancing ghostwriter who was an English major. * It's hard to call any political speech plagiarized—they’re all the same anyway. * For Trump to win the general election, it'll require "the most absent-minded political revolution in
* Cleveland's GOP convention begins, and Melania Trump lifts a key passage from Michelle Obama's 2008 convention speech. * RNC invites multi-level marketing pyramid schemer to speak. * “Never Trump” Republicans seethe after close call at the start of the convention. * Turkey's latest coup makes no sense:
* Republicans roll into Cleveland for the RNC, with Monday's theme focused on law and order. * Alleged gunman who killed three Baton Rouge police officers yesterday identified as a former marine. * Twenty-six cops have been killed so far in 2016, up 44% from 2015. * FWIW: Hate-ridden Orlando killer was
A young woman is covered in tattoos and her parents have no idea, so she made a video—complete with choir—to show her parents what she's been hiding. Made by Bianca Giaever for This American Life. There's plenty of Giaever's work in the
* Bastille Day attack in Nice leaves France reeling, with at least 80 dead after truck drives through crowd. * First-person account from local journalist on the scene. * Project to make fun of ISIS takes laughter seriously. * Your Friday white paper: Rich people favor military rule more than poor people do, and
Swedish filmmaker Petter Ringbom takes us on a tour of the Lowline. It's a former trolley terminal under the streets of New York's Lower East Side, that's being turned into a one-hundred acre park—the world's first park that's completely
* New British PM appoints Boris Johnson foreign secretary, for "glorified trade promotion and PR." * Reminder: When British governments change, the Queen is briefly in charge. * France's presidential hairdresser gets $10,958 a month, a third less than Hollande, who's partially bald. * Related: What really
* Sports organizations are increasingly comfortable with players promoting causes like #BlackLivesMatter. * Member of a Canadian singing quartet holds up an "All Lives Matter" sign during baseball's 87th All-Star Game. * Black employee quits Yale after smashing stained glass depicting slaves picking cotton. * Black lives matter in Nigeria—
* With Cameron out of the way, Theresa May may be the UK's prime minister by midweek. * Real output per person in central London is nearly four times the average in the European Union. * Thanks to Brexit and the pound's slide, Serena Williams missed out on $382,
* Last night, police in Baton Rouge charged at a peaceful assembly and arrested people for following orders. * Thousands of protesters shut down freeways in Oakland Saturday night. * Intentional attacks on police officers are at historically low levels under Obama. * Because America can't respond effectively to mass shootings, "
* Snipers kill five police officers and wound six after a peaceful protest in Dallas. * Police say suspect was upset about the latest recent police shootings, wanted to kill white officers. * Obama: "Today is a wrenching reminder of the sacrifices [that police officers] make for us." * Thanks to videos
* Minnesota man dies in second shooting this week of a black man by police officers. * Department of Justice opens civil rights investigation into police killing of Alton Sterling. * Latest Washington Post poll map shows the presidential race as Clinton's to lose. * House Republicans call FBI Director Comey to
* Clinton is no longer under investigation, but the FBI director's indictment is a ready-made attack ad. * Some 2,000 of Hillary Clinton’s emails were “up-classified” by the FBI. * Republican foreign policy elites say they'll vote for Clinton. * George Saunders crisscrosses the country, attending Trump rallies.
* Suicide bombers attack sites in Saudi Arabia, adding to violence in Baghdad, Istanbul, and Dhaka. * Rio de Janeiro police officers stand outside airport with a sign saying "Welcome to Hell." * Lengthy report on the state and history of Chinese restaurants in small Canadian towns. * Conservative MPs begin to
* Happy Canada Day: Unlike almost every country on the planet, Canada is welcoming Syrian refugees. * Police in Turkey have now detained 24 suspects in connection with the Istanbul airport attack. * Inside a hospital in Afghanistan's most violent province. * If Brexit happens, London will be replaced as the world&
* Senate passes Puerto Rico debt relief bill that will restructure payments and install oversight measures. * Jeremy Corbyn says he won't step down as Labour leader. * Turkey has "served as a rear base, transit hub and shopping bazaar" for ISIS—which may have protected the country from
* EU members met in Brussels today for the first time without Britain. * Nicola Sturgeon is in Brussels to begin talks for Scotland to remain in the EU. * The Istanbul airport assault is the 14th major terrorist attack in Turkey over the past year. * Bernie Sanders: Like Britons, Americans are angry,
* Yesterday's SCOTUS abortion decision goes beyond Texas: It expands the right established in Roe. * Texas governor lets slip that abortion restrictions were about stopping abortions, not women's health. * Citing Brexit fears, South Korea cuts GDP growth forecast and readies stimulus. * EU leaders want the UK to
* Brexit leaders renege on promises. * Fact-checking Boris Johnson's first post-Brexit article—he claims Scotland doesn't want another referendum. * After poor Brexit showing, UK Labour Party wants to oust Jeremy Corbyn, who says he's not going anywhere. * Post-financial crash, local governments outsourced emergency services to
* UK votes to leave EU, Cameron plans to resign, and EU wants Britain out as soon as possible. * British voters under 50 wanted to stay; those over 65 were loudest voices for “Leave.” * Brexit reactions on Twitter. * Scotland voted to remain in the EU, but was dragged out by England.
* The pound hits a six-month high as investors expect Britain to vote to remain in the EU. * UK's electoral commission estimates a final result "around breakfast time" on Friday. * On Tuesday and Wednesday alone, the Brexit vote attracted bets worth more than $4.4 million. * Improving
In response to Orlando, America's deadliest mass shooting, "We are a gentle angry people" indeed.
* Brexit campaigners crisscross the UK for a final day of arguments. * Latest polls find Britain (barely) inclined to remain in the EU. * Recent stumbles by Trump encourage GOP critics to pursue a bid to block his nomination. * Views of Chinese women on Clinton. * Wall Street donors say they’ll cut
Italian composer and pianist Ludovico Einaudi elegizes the Arctic from a floating piano at the edge of a melting glacier.
An unbearable video about the “future of media”—complete with endless buzzwords and nonsense—is not, in fact, a joke. From the Observer: Earlier this month Michael Ferro, chairman of Tribune Publishing, announced that the legacy media group was rebranding as tronc, or 'Tribune Online Content' (though the
* Senators say no to strengthening background checks and preventing suspected terrorists from purchasing guns. * On the gun vote: only 11 senators' votes were up for grabs. * Gun control point and counterpoint: Leah Finnegan annotates an AR-15 owner’s apologia. * Every time a bomb goes off somewhere, every time there’
Finally, the Japanese Donald Trump commercial we’ve all been waiting for.
* US Senate to vote on four gun control bills today; none are expected to pass. * Summer solstice arrives tonight with a rare "strawberry moon." * The Sahel, the world’s largest interconnecting crisis area, is on the verge of collapse. * First country-to-country ride-hail service takes people from Singapore to
Footage from Japan’s Onbashira festival—reputed to have continued, uninterrupted, for 1,200 years—where young men prove their mettle by riding enormous logs down a hill.
* "Secret" memo sees dozens of US diplomats urging Obama to attack Assad, in response to more than 400,000 dead. * The vast majority of mass shooters use handguns, not assault rifles, in their attacks. * See also: FBI crime data shows murder victims by weapon, 2010–2014. * Brexit campaign
* Democratic Senator's filibuster leads to a "path forward" in the Senate on two gun control measures. * Since the gun lobby has long suppressed research, basic questions remain about how policy can lead to prevention. * Trump sees two civilizations at conflict; for Obama, they are one. * To
* Neither Clinton nor Trump have articulated why more airstrikes in Syria are the right response to an attack ISIS didn't coordinate. * Clinton wins the final primary in DC and meets with Sanders, who will address his supporters on Thursday. * If Trump wins, he'll be the oldest
* Photos of worldwide memorials to Orlando—including in places where it's illegal to be gay. * Orlando shooter was enough of a regular at Pulse to have been kicked out before. * Clinton backs assault weapon ban. * A timeline of the NRA and gun makers' wildly successful manipulation of
Trailer for the new Werner Herzog documentary about the internet, Lo And Behold: Reveries of the Connected World, in which monks are found to tweet. See also: "Be Not Afraid," the private diaries of Werner Herzog
* American Omar Mateen kills 49 at a gay nightclub in Orlando—America's deadliest mass shooting. * With a history of violence and appearances on FBI radar, Mateen also had two legal licenses for his guns. * Whether Mateen was working for ISIS, or just seeking publicity, the Islamic State doesn&
Australian filmmaker Keith Loutit spent three years filming Singapore’s rapid growth, including rarely seen night scenes and the rapid progress of construction sites. “The goal of all my work is to help people see their surroundings with fresh eyes as if for the first time,” Mr. Loutit told Channel
* Tens of thousands prepare to say goodbye to Muhammad Ali in his home city of Louisville. * Photographs from Ali's storied career. * Former Pablo Escobar enforcer finds fame on YouTube. * Bangladeshi police make breakthroughs in the case of who is killing all of the secular bloggers and activists. * Stunning
An adorable animation explains that the key to solving insomnia may be a daily dose of philosophy.
* Dispatch from a small, mostly peaceful Muslim Chinese town accused of being “China’s Islamic State.” * Flock of over 1,000 sheep invades Spanish city after its shepherd falls asleep. * The "Nordic paradox"—despite being the world's most gender-equal nations, Nordic countries have a high rate
* Clinton wins majority of pledged delegates, majority of states that have held primaries, and the popular vote. * It's complicated. It isn't just "a woman." It's the right woman at the right time. * "Sanders Vows to Keep Fighting for Nomination Even if
A rare look inside the Svalbard Global Seed Vault—“the world’s most important freezer”—which is closed for about 350 days a year. As explained by The Kid Should See This: “On the Norwegian island of Spitsbergen, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault protects around 865,000 seed samples from
* Car bomb attack kills 11 in central Istanbul, the city's fourth major attack this year. * Islamic State kills nearly 40 of its own on a spy hunt. * Trump orders surrogates to attack judges and journalists in a fascinating-sounding phone call. * AP says Clinton has the pledged delegates and
An NPR reporter retraces a snowy owl’s journey from a beach in Maryland to an island in Canada. (We’re suckers for a good animal video to watch at lunchtime.)
* Swiss voters overwhelmingly reject proposal to give citizens a guaranteed income. * Wall Street lends Uber $1 billion to fund its subprime auto leasing scheme. * Twenty percent of Title I funding—meant to help poorer school districts—ends up in rich districts. * Over Memorial Day weekend in Chicago, 64 people were
When their father is imprisoned, three kids’ fates are up for grabs. From the Guardian: “In a government building in Nanzhao, the Zhang children’s father awaits his fate. He accidentally killed a child and will probably be executed. The Chinese state makes no provision for prisoners’ children. The Sun
In the video for Kaytranada’s “Lite Spots,” a robot best friend learns how to dance. Directed by Martin C. Pariseau.
* Massive rescue underway after a migrant boat carrying hundreds capsizes in the Mediterranean. * Conference in Paris gathers the Middle East Quartet, the Arab League, the UN—but not Israelis or Palestinians. * Flooding in Paris forces the Louvre and Orsay museums to move precious art. * From 1910: "Grim fear has
A stunning time-lapse video captures hundreds of ships sailing into Amsterdam. From PBS Newshour: “Every five years, as many as 600 ships navigate around the canal for a five-day festival in order to showcase and celebrate Netherland’s history of seafaring and ports. The event, called SAIL Amsterdam, started in
* Clinton to attack Trump's foreign policy prescriptions, hoping to reach moderate Republicans. * Trump loses a golf tournament to Mexico because his name's bad for business. * With an unlikely alliance settled with the US, Iran effectively controls Iraq. * Republicans see conspiracy in secret meetings to justify the
The world of Game of Thrones is heavily based on historical events. One theory says the geography of Westeros is a modified version of the British Isles. See also: The Google map of Westeros.
* Former Trump University “professors” say their jobs were to scam people. * How Citizens United killed a little-known public bank account that helped elect both Carter and Reagan. * Most of Libertarian nominee Gary Johnson’s campaign spending has gone to outside consultants. * Views on the US election from the "developing&
How to move your hands very fast, from a bonus clip from I Am Bruce Lee, the 2012 documentary about the legendary martial arts master. See also: Trailer for I Am Bruce Lee.
* Mafia expert says London's financiers make the UK the world's most corrupted country. * Summers: No wonder Americans don't trust the government—it can't even fix a bridge. * The Mexican Army kills eight enemies for every one it wounds. * Former attorney general Holder
The theremin is one of the oldest electronic musical instruments in history. The “theremini,” its new little brother, is flat-out adorable. See also: Archival video of Leon Theremin playing his own instrument.
* Round-up of errors and hype about the “nightmare” “superbug” that's circulating in the news right now. * The "folk theory" of democracy says Sanders supporters vote for his policies—a fallacy the media can't resist. * Stanford economist surveys the relationship between newspapers, ads, bias, and
Budapest’s giant music box, one of the largest in the world, plays the Harry Potter theme song when humans walk in its hamster wheel. From the official description: “The contraption plays music from six different genres depending on audience preference, here in this video you can hear the Harry
William Klein’s mesmerizing, rarely seen documentary The French goes behind the scenes at Rolland Garros in 1981.
* Two years into the US-led air war against the Islamic State, we're only now hitting significant targets. * NASA calls off today's plan to inflate the International Space Station's new experimental habitat module. * France's 19 nuclear plants go on strike. * Across government, ancient
* Obama aims to transfer a quarter of the remaining Guantánamo detainees to other countries by the end of his term. * The world often forgets Nagasaki. Based on his itinerary, so did Obama. * The media stopped covering racial justice, favoring presidential campaigns—because journalism is overwhelmingly white. * Libertarians have a Trump-sized
* The GOP has a beef with the IRS, and now Congress is considering impeaching the agency head. * "Of all the things that Congress could be truculent about, fighting an epidemic is the worst." * Campaign finance reform that strips away recent rulings would still have to deal with entrenched
“The high bidder at an auction has paid more money for a work than anyone else in the world thinks it’s worth at that point in time.” via Artsy
Edward Hardy is 93, lives in a nursing home, and suffers from dementia and depression. Sam Kinsella, one of Mr. Hardy’s care givers and the narrator of this video, learns of Edward’s prior life as a jazz pianist. After Sam arranges for a keyboard to be brought in,
Shimon is a robot that can play marimba chords and sequences that can’t be replicated by any single human. Jason Barnes is a drummer who lost part of his arm, and who now wears a robotic prosthesis that can drum up to 20 beats per second. Via Quartz
* Bayer wants to buy Monsanto and create world's largest GMO supplier. * Obama ends military weapons embargo of Vietnam—possibly as leverage against an encroaching China. * Until last week, the term "Oriental" still appeared in federal law—now it will be replaced by "Asian American."
We use our entire brain—and not just the temporal lobe, as once believed—to group words by meaning. Via Aeon
* Oklahoma's legislation to outlaw abortions is so "blatantly unconstitutional" that it's hardly enforceable. * McDonald's reports that higher pay and better benefits have boosted their bottom line. * Verizon strike faces challenges indicative of labor's larger struggles. * Colonialism is alive in Western
Google’s new “Art Camera” will travel the world, taking ultra-high-resolution “gigapixel” images to digitize a series of artworks. See also: Masterpieces already digitized from Rotterdam’s Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen.
Berklee pianist Tony Ann plays a medley of familiar ringtones. See more of Tony Ann on Facebook.
* EgyptAir flight crashes over the Mediterranean; "terrorism more likely than technical failure." * Labor Relations Board rules that companies aren’t allowed to pressure workers to be relentlessly positive. * Restaurants ditch the no-tipping movement. * Whatever destroyed Venezuela's economy, the result is "one of the most severe
Suffering from panic attacks, Ryan Bassil finds solace in the sounds of William Basinski, Oval, and Brian Eno, who “at one point felt like an angel sent to me from heaven.” Related: For those who experience anxiety attacks, every day is a case in survival. One writer’s journey to
* 1954 or 2016? Court orders Mississippi schools to desegregate. * Oklahoma's dedication to tax cuts for oil producers ended up gutting the state's school system. * This tool shows how the gender pay gap varies across US industries. * McConnell wants women to register for Selective Service, where, if
A brief tour of Pantone’s factory headquarters in Carlstadt, NJ, where global color standards are set—to make sure that red you’re using really is red. Credit: Quartz If you enjoyed this, check out Graham Beck’s investigation into how America’s military elects to paint itself.
In 1977, David Nash planted 22 ash saplings and trained them to grow into a dome. Nearly 40 years later, his vision continues to take shape. Via This Is Colossal See also: A man who spent three years painting the same English tree repeatedly—in all weather, day and night—
In the 1660s, German alchemist Hennig Brand intended to turn urine into gold. But 1,500 gallons of dehydrated pee led him instead to discover phosphorus. From Wikipedia’s history of alchemy: “In the eyes of a variety of esoteric and Hermetic practitioners, alchemy is fundamentally spiritual. Transmutation of lead
* April is the seventh month in a row to break temperature records. * German electrical grid nearly overburdened with all the renewable energy being produced. * Fifty years after the Cultural Revolution, China is torn between a promise of progress and a tether to Mao. * The Cultural Revolution—hell for millions—still
Referencing historical photos of Denali National Park, a photographer takes exact matches that show how climate change has altered the landscape. Via WBEZ Chicago Also, if you liked this video, you'll probably enjoy Paul Colangelo's "Sacred Headwaters" series about three of Canada’s biggest
* The Economist on why democracy fails in the Middle East: fear of Islamist parties; the diversity of Arab peoples. * America needs the government to reclaim its role as an employer to complete the recovery. * "Americans Don’t Miss Manufacturing—They Miss Unions." * Could an American “baby lull” presage
* White House directs all US public schools to accommodate trans students' gender identities. * Seven months after promising to relocate 10,000 Syrian refugees, America has settled under 2,000. * Global urban air pollution is worsening, and most cities in developing countries fall far shy of WHO air quality standards.
To sing in water, composer Laila Skovmand developed “a technique where she keeps an air bubble in her mouth and sings through it when submerged, rising to the top about every minute to take in a breath and a new bubble.” Related: Here’s Thom Yorke kind of singing underwater,
* US missile shield in Europe goes live today to protect NATO from Iranian rockets. * Hollande's Socialist government to resign en masse if it loses today's confidence vote in France. * Study finds that mandatory voting in Austria doesn't affect electoral outcomes. * Turkish troops shoot and
A primer to the controversial and brilliant Pet Sounds, which turns 50 this month. The album was such a major departure for Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys that Capitol Records released the first single, “Caroline, No” under Wilson’s name only, and then attempted to scuttle the album two
* UK's Cameron calls Nigeria "fantastically corrupt"—and Nigerian president Buhari agrees. * How Uganda came to be the world’s foremost exporter of mercenaries. * Gessen: Considering Russia's tone-deaf positions, it's no wonder a motorcycle club can shape its foreign policy. * Three points to
* Sanders likely to win West Virginia today, but Clinton’s overall delegate lead looks insurmountable. * Fictional political pundit out-guesses Nate Silver, 538, Vox, and other "science"-based poll predictions. * Republican senators meet with and praise Supreme Court nominee Garland—and continue to block his fate. * Obama to become
This is what real giants would look like in the real world: often miserable. by Dan Chen
As the landscape unfolds, an unlucky driver keeps arriving in horror movie scenes.
* White House aide harangued for telling the NYTimes the Iran nuclear deal was sold on fiction. * North Carolina to defy federal deadline on bathroom law, risking $4.8 billion in federal funding. * "Rockstar" Democratic fundraiser Elizabeth Warren may find a Trump presidential run playing right into her hands.
* After repeatedly saying he'd support the Republican nominee, Paul Ryan says he can't back Trump. * Profile of Milwaukee Sheriff David Clarke, a black Fox News talking head and Trump's favorite lawman. * Dispatch from a business-casual white supremacist conference. * On the campaign trail with John
* Justice Department warns North Carolina that its transphobic bathroom law violates civil rights laws. * The US wasted over a billion dollars trying to fight AIDS in Africa by promoting abstinence. * Europe to cease issuing the €500 bill; $1 million worth weighs five pounds and fits in a small bag. * Quick
Left on mute, this video for “Love Again” by Run the Jewels is merely a suggestive nature film. That would also be missing the point.
Drones outfitted in LEDs accompany traditional Japanese musicians for a performance in front of Mt. Fuji. More by Sky Magic
* Trump locks in the GOP nomination, Cruz quits the race, Bernie wins Indiana to little avail. * GOP faithful switch to supporting Hillary. * Trump supporters attack GQ writer, who wrote a profile of Trump's wife she didn't like, with lurid antisemitism. * Tennessee governor signs law allowing university
In a stunning new video from Braids, vocalist Raphaelle Standell-Preston is singing around architecture.
* Andrew Sullivan: The rise of Trump marks the extinction of our democracy. * Opposition to Vietnamese refugees in the '70s was higher than today's opposition to Syrians. * Collection of once-embargoed photos of “enemy” Japanese Bay Area citizens being rounded up. * Neither free-market policy nor individual behavior is responsible
Orly Faya’s portraits merge her subjects with the nature surrounding them.
* US and Russia possibly to draw up map of "safe zones" in Aleppo, hoping Russia can convince Syria's Assad to obey. * Photographs and brief interviews from inside Aleppo, where over 250 were killed by airstrikes last week. * Twenty years after Australia enacted strict gun control, the
A man and his selfie stick circumnavigate the world. Here’s footage of his travels, one second for each of his 200 days. See also: We asked people around the globe—in Uganda, Ecuador, Fiji, and more—to make food from the opposite side of Earth.
You binged-listened and -watched Lemonade all week. Now see the only review you can agree with. See more by Evelyn From the Internets, and you’ll want to after this.
Armed with a macro lens, artist Pyanek shows how the everyday is anything but average. via Neatorama More at Pyanek’s Facebook
* Anticipating this weekend's White House Correspondents Dinner, a list of jokes told by every president. * Boehner calls Ted Cruz “Lucifer in the flesh,” “the most miserable son of a bitch in my life.” * Don’t underestimate Trump’s top advisor, who made “a booming business working with dictators.
* Prince was the rare rock star who took his female collaborators and bandmates seriously. * Google knows who you'll vote for. What if we let them? * Flourishing natural habitat at Chernobyl mirrors modern understanding of radiation's therapeutic upsides. * "In the Republican presidential frontrunner's telling,
After artists Andy Leek and Daniela Sea are matched on Tinder, each agrees to film their side of the date.
* US destroys $800m of the Islamic State's cash reserves with air strikes. * Big strike at UK's National Health Service results from a plan to make doctors work Saturdays without extra pay. * Lucid, entertaining John Lanchester piece on what money is exactly and what it will become
Eddie Watkins, the original drummer for math rock pioneers Polvo, died this week. Whether or not you know their work, an excellent place to start learning (or paying your respects) is “Tilebreaker” from the band’s second album, Today’s Active Lifestyles.
You are required to stay with it past the 45-second mark. “I’m having trouble looking at you when I’m saying these things.” by Just Not Sports
Enjoy “Rife w/ Typo,” the latest from M. Sage, the video for which transports you to what might be the botanical garden at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Conservatory.
A mini-doc about a National Geographic photographer and why he does what he does. (Job perks include peeing outdoors and avoiding humans.) More by Andy Maser
* Turkey arrests another European journalist for insulting Erdogan, second time in recent weeks. * In a free speech showdown, Egypt doesn't just deny it murdered a student—it’s investigating a Reuters journalist over the very suggestion. * Audio from a news report about Kim Jong-un's birthday applied
While walking along a Bed-Stuy street in 2013, Antonius Wiriadjaja was shot by a stray bullet. In this video he recounts his shooting and recovery and reunites with John Morant, a bystander who helped save his life. One month after filming, Morant was shot and killed in South Carolina. By
* Obama meets with EU leaders to address unity problems, nixes the idea of a UK-US trade agreement. * Cruz and Kasich join forces, each to bow out in certain states to let the other go alone against Trump. * America should embrace Europe's "right to roam" laws, where
“A short film about a birthday party you weren’t invited to.” Official website: asongforyourmixtape.com
* Seven-time Grammy winner and "consummate showman" Prince dies at home in Minnesota at 57. * Prince’s autopsy is today, six days after he held a Paisley Park dance party to show everyone he was fine. * Collection of the most ridiculous stories about Prince—who didn’t believe in
Pedestrians on a busy crosswalk become motion blurs, creating new city backgrounds. By Hiroshi Kondo / STNW
* Japanese officials raid Mitsubishi after the company admits cheating on fuel-economy tests. * Divestment tactics are still polarizing, but public opinion is now against the fossil fuel industry. * Latin American countries, besieged with drug violence, were rebuffed by prohibitionists at a special UN summit. * Obama visits London to lunch with the
This short film is based on an actual YouTube comment. Years after his father died, a son rediscovers the Xbox they used to play together. There, in an old copy of Rally Sport Challenge, he can still race alongside his father’s ghost car. By John Wikstrøm
* After Clinton and Trump win New York, the media praises Trump’s new “presidential” tone. * Scholars and political junkies wonder if The Donald could be impeached as soon as he takes office. * Indiana becomes Cruz’s top priority: a chance to end Trump's hopes of entering Cleveland with
A brief history of how Al Capone—aka “Scarface”—got his scars. Capone’s scars weren’t the result—as he claimed—of war wounds from overseas, but rather an inappropriate comment made to the sister of a man with a knife. via Laughing Squid
* If Trump or Clinton lose today's New York primary, it will be "the biggest upset in recent polling history." * Homeless New Yorkers explain how they manage to live in the city's airports, bus terminals, and train stations. * Airbnb is trying to partner with SEIU,
* Supreme Court to decide if Obama overstepped by granting amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants. * Supreme Court opinions in Citizens United prefigured the Sanders-vs-Clinton dynamic. * There is no Bernie movement. * Manitoba offers voters a "none of the above" option if they don't like any of the
Time-lapse video of the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis, shot from the International Space Station. For a better soundtrack, mute the above and turn this up instead: Auroras occur when charged particles enter the upper atmosphere. Or when a witch dies. via NASA
* UK begins its official campaign over an EU exit, preparing for the "Brexit" referendum on June 23. * The average "democracy score" of 29 formerly Communist countries in Eurasia has declined every year since 2004. * Czech Republic may change its name to Czechia (CHECK-iya), which even its
The inner thoughts of a dance crew as their performance kicks off. Interview with Alter Ego by Ira Glass. Music by Nico Muhly for Contemporary Color. via Pitchfork
* Six months after the government told people in Flint to use bottled water, the tap water's still not drinkable. * ISIS appears to be losing in Iraq, but liberated areas aren't being stabilized. * Ever since Boko Haram kidnapped nearly 300 girls, thousands more have been taken, many
A Carmina Burana street performance becomes a decadent flashmob opera. Produced by MeTube 2, “the love child of opera, Pulp Fiction, and Grumpy Cat.” Discovered in 1803, Carmina Burana is a medieval collection of mostly NSFW poems satirizing the Catholic Church. In 1936, Carl Orff composed songs around 24 of
Song-of-the-year contender Mitski’s “Your Best American Girl” now has a video to match the empowering intensity of WHEN THOSE CHORDS HIT, and then HIT AGAIN, and do they ever. See also: How to play “Your Best American Girl” because you’re going to want to learn guitar after hearing
Hyperrealist sculptor Carole Feuerman’s astounding work feels so alive because there’s an unbreakable spirit inside each piece. See more at Artsy and carolefeuerman.com
* Syria peace talks resume in Geneva, with the fate of Assad still a stumbling block. * America's ongoing air wars in the Middle East have depleted our stock of bombs. * Human Rights Watch issues startling report warning of the dangers of “killer robots.” * For poor Americans, geography greatly affects
Richie Jackson is a skateboarding pioneer. In “Death Skateboards” he gives every trick a wacky, unexpected twist. See also: Thrasher’s longstanding editor Jake Phelps is nearly too hardcore in his embodiment of skate culture.
* Following the Panama Papers, EU to require multinational firms to disclose more tax information. * The Panama Papers counterintuitive conspiracy theory: Putin is the mole. * So many Detroiters are seeking concealed pistol permits, classes are booked for two months out. * Analysts say NPR is signing its own death warrant by ignoring
* Government surveillance planes routinely circle over major American cities, but don't fly much on weekends. * The CIA's venture capital arm—who knew?—invests in a skincare start-up that collects users' DNA. * UK spy agency helps prevent leak of the latest Harry Potter. * David Cameron faces
* There was a 50% uptick in executions worldwide between 2014 and 2015. * Al Qaeda is winning a PR war over ISIS in Yemen by providing social services. * Boko Haram has used women and girls in more than 100 terrorist attacks since 2014. * There are some 4,000 internally displaced people
* Global military spending is on the rise—36% is the US alone, at $596B. * The trials of women and children refugees, who now make up over half the refugee population in Europe. * Report finds "unprecedented" levels of violence and threats against abortion providers in 2015. * Obama's
* Mossack Fonseca, the firm at the center of the Panama Papers, provided financial services to Bashar al-Assad's cousin and financier, whom America has sanctioned. * Chinese President Xi Jinping, along with his brother-in-law and other top officials, linked to Mossack Fonseca. * All mentions of the Panama Papers have been
* Guide to the Panama Papers, exposing the financial workings of Putin and other world leaders and their families. * Anonymous leaker: “I want to make these crimes public.” * Related: How to wrap your head around the size of 2.6 terabytes worth of leaked material. * Cruz confident in winning Wisconsin tonight—
* “Panama Papers” document links Putin, Xi Jinping, other leaders and family to shady tax evasion firm Mossack Fonseca. * One immediate consequence of the leak: Icelandic PM hit with calls for a snap election. * Inside Iceland’s Kviabryggja Prison, which holds the only bank chiefs convicted in the wake of the
* Aung San Suu Kyi to get a PM type role, bypassing Myanmar's ban on her becoming president. * Brussels airport likely to reopen tonight. * Researchers use terrorist-tracking technique to prove that Tyrion Lannister is the hero of Game of Thrones. * Obama has no right to lecture the press while
* Terrifying Ebola update: Nearly half of survivors may go blind—possibly incubating the virus in their eyes. * Head of Libyan unity government sails into Tripoli in brave, possibly doomed gesture. * Obama hosts his fourth and final nuclear summit; Putin boycotts. * We have only a year or so to stop investing
* British man posed for selfie with EgyptAir hijacker mid-flight to get a better look at his suicide belt. * The end of the Cold War left a painful ideological vacuum in Europe. * Twelve questions for Niall Ferguson regarding his "medicore" Kissinger biography. * Unbearable uncertainty for refugees stuck in Greece.
* Long before Brussels, ISIS sent agents into Europe, and officials failed to notice ties to the nascent group. * Big companies like General Mills, Mars, and Kellogg to label GMOs—thanks to little Vermont. * Self-declared prophet—on crusade for minimum wage—shot in US Capitol after pulling a gun. * Governor Brown
* Suicide bomber kills 70 on Easter Sunday at Lahore amusement park, injuring 300 others. * Why the US keeps killing ISIS's second-in-command: because there are so many of them. * Between the CIA and the Pentagon, America funds both sides of a firefight in Syria. * US cities lower murder rates
* Sixty percent of Republicans say the party should look elsewhere if Trump merely finishes with a plurality. * List of possible scenarios if the GOP has a brokered convention. * Misogyny isn't an incidental part of Donald Trump. It's who he is. * See also: Jimmy Kimmel mansplains to
* US intelligence officials grumble over Belgium's handling of its worsening Islamic militant threat. * Chart of victims of terrorist attacks In western Europe since 1970. * American injured in Brussels airport also survived the Boston marathon attack. * Tyler Cowen's favorite Belgian things. * South Sudan’s president, accused by
* Search continues for missing Brussels suspect, one of three men believed responsible for yesterday's attacks. * World Trade Center's tribute to Brussels was far more red, white, and blue than black, yellow, and red. * What Europe lacks: a cross-national security agency with the power to carry out
* Terrorists kill 34 or more in attacks at the Brussels international airport and a city metro station. * Eyewitness accounts from Belgium. * Cameron knocks the UK Independence Party for immediately linking the attacks to immigration. * Rebecca Solnit on the officer-involved shooting that symbolizes San Francisco’s gentrification. * Raul Castro becomes latest
* George Packer on how Tunisia, post-Arab Spring, became the Middle East's leading exporter of jihadis. * Twenty-five percent of Puerto Rico will probably get Zika within a year; 80% or more may become infected. * Only 37% of Americans have the savings to cover a $500 car repair or a
* North Korea launches ballistic missiles test, following Obama's new round of sanctions. * Latest Chinese social-media skinny craze finds women trying to hide waists behind single sheets of paper. * The Chinese nickname for Facebook—“must die” or “doomed”—makes sense when Zuckerberg jogs in smog. * Related: Chinese citizens grow
* America’s first climate refugees, a Native American tribe in Louisiana, receives $48 million to relocate. * The story of Oyotunji, a West African village in South Carolina. * Kurdish-controlled area in Syria to declare autonomy. * Putin: If need be, Russia can re-up its armed forces in Syria to previous levels "
* Myanmar elects Aung San Suu Kyi’s chosen president, ending decades of military control. * Profile of two Chinese sisters who, after years in Boston’s Chinatown, are awash in gentrification struggles. * Clinton and Trump win big in Tuesday's primaries, see path to nomination. * All of the Republican campaigns
* Putin pulls Russia out of Syria, either because Assad’s rule is secure again, or he no longer cares. * War in Syria has made refugees of some 2.4 million children. * Four Egyptian children charged with blasphemy for mocking ISIS. * Summary of issues at stake for Democrats today in Florida,
* Death toll from Turkey's car bombing in Ankara rises to 37; officials blame the PKK. * Obama’s SCOTUS shortlist reportedly shrinks to three nominees. * Less than nine months after Charleston, the move to remove Confederate symbols slows or stops. * White voters hope Trump will restore the racial hierarchy
* Merkel’s refugee policies to be tested this weekend in Germany's regional elections. * Carson endorses Trump, calling him a "leader with an outsider's perspective." * White Trump supporter who punched a black protester in North Carolina: "Next time, we might have to kill him.
* Top State Department drugs official encourages other countries to decriminalize narcotics. * Some nine million Americans have private wells with dangerously high levels of lead, according to Virginia Tech projections. * Bus of journalists attacked, set on fire, during a press tour organized by the Committee Against Torture. * The unethical practice of
* Slovenia and Croatia shut their borders to migrants to shut off migrants' "Balkan route." * Populism wins at the polls, with big victories by Trump, surprising win by Sanders. * Shocked by the Sanders coup in Michigan, pollsters reexamine numbers for other Midwestern states with open primaries. * Trump'
* Voters go to the polls in four states, with Michigan the biggest prize for both parties. * Clinton voters like Obama more than Sanders supporters do, and other divisions. * Related: Clinton shilled for worldwide fracking as Secretary of State on behalf of industry interests. * If the GOP does split, it may
* Afghanistan, America’s longest war, is being almost entirely ignored during this election cycle. * Takeaways from the Democrats' debate: Sanders got personal; Clinton scored on guns. * Sixty-eight percent of Sanders supporters don’t watch cable news. * Potential upside of Trump’s destroying the political norm: the end of big-money
Relive the action of the 12th Annual Morning News Tournament of Books—or any of the previous 11—presented by Field Notes.
A music-video supercut spanning 41 years of Bruce Springsteen performing “Thunder Road,” the lead track from his iconic Born to Run. Clarence Clemons, RIP. Video by Phil Whitehead
* Energy Department scientists say they’ve reached the “holy grail” that may remake the electrical grid. * Obama sent five men on a mission to find out if the NSA should collect metadata; their answer is no. * To summarize the state of Republican politics: The front-runner assured America that his penis
* Study finds Islamic countries have significantly lower homicide, suicide, and overall lethal violence rates than non-Islamic countries * When CNN commenters clash over the K.K.K. in 2016, it's both terrifying and deadly serious. * Map of European place names with the word "Saint" in them. * The
* Super Tuesday sees Democrats solidify around Clinton, Republicans vent rage via Trump. * The GOP faces two endgames: Donald Trump for president or a contested convention. * The best article we've seen to explain Trump's success: Amanda Taub's "The rise of American authoritarianism." * However:
* As Super Tuesday states head to the polls, Politico predicts Clinton and Trump to all but bury their rivals. * "Super Guides" from 538 to Super Tuesday, Republican and Democratic editions. * In case you missed it: John Oliver focuses his show on Trump, or Drumpf. * Consultants, friends, and Super
* Yesterday's Islamic State suicide bombings kill 70 in Baghdad's deadliest attack this year. * Former governor of the Bank of England says the Eurozone is doomed. * Cases for and against the $100 bill. * Rock, probably as well as anyone could, held the industry to account on its
* High turnout as Iranians vote in first elections since the nuclear agreement. * Latest Republican debate turns into "screamfest," with Rubio on attack. * Trump continues to be a heat-seeking missile in the GOP, blowing up every obstacle in his way. * In 1992, Parents Magazine asked women if Donald Trump
* After protesters are banned from marching in Seoul, "ghost" holograms take their place. * Dominatrices offer Wall Streeters 15 minutes of spankings for $27, with proceeds going to Bernie Sanders. * In case you missed it: Leather-clad Ted Cruz greets voters at Reno-area fetish club. * One should be cautious about
* Obama makes final push to close Guantanamo, move prisoners to the States, and save a bunch of money. * Ethiopia’s precarious development threatened by another famine; food may run out in May. * People in KKK robes showed up at one caucus site to support Nevada’s winner: Donald Trump. * For
* Oceans are rising faster than at any point in the last 28 centuries and humans are to blame, scientists say. * Oil prices have dropped so low, even pirates aren't interested. * Oil sellers “may be forced by bankruptcy conditions to relent and accept whatever price they can achieve.” * On
* Saudi Arabia’s weapons imports for 2011-15 increased by 275% compared with 2006–10. * Amidst alleged murder spree, Kalamazoo man continued his job as an Uber driver. * Students were armed during America's first school shooting and it didn't help much. * Sanders unlikely to be pleased that
* Ankara was bombed Thursday; Turkey blames Kurdish groups allied with United States against ISIS. * Myth of the “black vote” breaks down in Harlem, where some think Clinton will do more for blacks than Obama. * Clinton built a primary "firewall" in Nevada then left it alone, and now Sanders
* Supreme court justices are passionate politicians, not oracles on a Jedi Council. * To deny Obama a third Supreme Court, Republicans invoke Chuck Schumer. * Money hasn’t won votes so far this primary season. * New website sells fancy hotel rooms by the hour, pleasing lovers as well as hotels trying to
* GOP race may come down to that “white whale of politics,” a contested national party convention. * See also: Animated war gifs by the great Christoph Niemann. * Twitter users respond to Jeb's photo of his gun with pictures of tea cups, light sabers, bigger guns. * Somehow, a boiling river
* Now is the time to check the Supreme Court's powers, not pay deference to them. * Scalia abhorred the “exalted conception” of the Court, but his death puts it front and center. * In his decisions, Scalia said the court—”a select, patrician, highly unrepresentative panel of nine”—needed to
* McConnell commits to unprecedented stand against the Presidency's authority to nominate Supreme Court Justices. * Hillary commits to "single-issue" critique of Sanders—she even unveiled a call-and-response cheer that breaking up banks won't end racism. * In 1990, Trump lost millions to a Japanese gambler, so
* Takeaways from the sixth Democratic debate: Clinton is specific, perhaps nobly; Sanders is all coffeehouse rage. * Kanye West’s sneakers are currently a better investment than almost any other asset class. * "Pharma bro" Martin Shkreli and Wu-Tang Clan's Ghostface Killah feud with videos. * See also: The
* After negotiations are broadcast live on YouTube, remaining Oregon militia members agree to surrender. * On Hillary and Bill's first date, they crossed a picket line to see a Mark Rothko exhibit. * Milbank: A new Jeb Bush has been sighted on the trail and on TV, and this one
* After Trump triumphs in New Hampshire, GOP envisions a long, bruising fight to secure a palatable competitor. * Sanders’s youth movement powered by revived energy in the new campus left. * Gloria Steinem's comment—that young women are supporting Sanders to meet boys—shows the rift between imperial and
* FOP is the world's largest association of police unions. A third of its contracts with US cities require the eventual destruction of misconduct complaints. * Chicago's FOP shapes often-false narratives around victims of fatal police shootings. * How a law unique to Florida, allowing juries to reach the
* Amid accusations North Korea fired a missile over Japan, the rocket entered space and dropped an object into orbit. * French police have been using the government's state of emergency to target Muslims. * Europe does not have a refugee crisis; the top refugee-accepting countries per capita are in the
* Obama pressed by top military advisers to attack the Islamic State in Libya. * Sanders gets credit for last night's debate performance, but still is expected to lose massively if he's the nominee. * Jeb's request for applause is the latest sign he's giving
{image-1} The Tulsa Artist Fellowship is a program established by the George Kaiser Family Foundation to enhance the local art scene by retaining and recruiting artists to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Entering its second year, the TAF is expanding to include writers. With the inaugural class of artists beginning their fellowships this
Announcing the brackets for the 2016 edition of The Morning News Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
* UN panel says Julian Assange is being arbitrarily held by the UK under threat of arrest. * Trump says Cruz stole Iowa with voter fraud and wants his win disqualified. * Iowa doesn’t decide the nominee. But it does send a clear signal about the direction a party’s taking. * Elif
* Rand Paul joins O'Malley and Huckabee in dropping out of the presidential race. * Sanders viewed as goofy father figure, Clinton perceived as disciplinarian mom. * An all-caps reaction to the liberal backlash against Hillary Clinton. * Kool & the Gang backs out of GOP Convention gig. * Kanye walks back greatness
* Cruz wins in Iowa, a result that will likely leave the GOP in an even more frustrated state than if he'd lost. * Clinton grabs very narrow victory in Iowa. * See also: Why a tie for Bernie is actually a win for Clinton. * Trump took 39% of Iowans who
* Polls point to Trump and Clinton winning Iowa's caucuses, though Iowa is notoriously difficult to poll. * Iowa parties and Microsoft to launch an app tonight to replace a keypad system for reporting caucus results. * FAQ for the Iowa caucuses—"a lot of debating and moving around."
* White House to require companies to report what they pay employees by race, gender and ethnicity. * In Norway, a barrel of oil now costs less than a single salmon. * Tennessee teenagers dead possibly from drinking "Dewshine," a mix of Mountain Dew and racing fuel. * GOP candidates pledge to
* Officials from the WHO say the Zika virus is “spreading explosively” in the Americas. * Iran's Hassan Rouhani makes his first official visit to France and gets straight to business, post-sanctions. * See also: Normalizing relations with Iran is far from naive—it's a proven tactic for peace.
* French justice minister steps down, protesting plan to strip convicted terrorists of their citizenship. * Standoff in Oregon ends with both Bundys arrested after brief shootout. * Dead Oregon militaman told NBC he’d rather die than go to prison. * Trump to boycott Fox News' Republican debate, calling host Megyn Kelly
* In dramatic reversal, grand jury indicts creators of Planned Parenthood sting videos. * Why Republicans are backing Trump over Cruz. * The biggest problem with Cruz isn't his hypocrisy—it's his all-out attack on mainstream Republican voters. * Cruz at 18: "I’d like to take over the
Traditionally ostracized in the weight room, women who dare to lift weights discover strength they were previously denied.
* Syria peace discussions begin today in Geneva, starting with "proximity talks," where groups meet separately. * Winter Storm Jonas—the second-biggest snowstorm in New York City history—shuts down government offices in Washington, D.C. * Despite the travel ban in New York, some used the blizzard as a chance
* More than 500 flights cancelled ahead of the East Coast's dreaded weekend storm. * Washington Post shuts down its column on "what was fake on the internet this week." * Haiti's opposition presidential candidate calls the planned run-off a farce with only one candidate. * Probably no
When Prince asks you to DJ his party, you say yes. When he wants you to stop so he can watch Finding Nemo, well. Questlove learned the answer the hard way.
* Report finds Putin "probably" approved the poisoning of former KGB officer Alexander Litvinetko. * "As he lay dying, he traced the lethal substance to a former comrade in the Russian secret service." * Inside a Russian attempt to engineer unending daylight. * Two scientists indicted for emailing confidential GlaxoSmithKline
Fans of Archy Marshall (aka King Krule) will like knowing about his lifetime of creating with his brother Jack—seeing them make music, write poetry, paint, and receive haircuts from their mom. Archy Marshall’s A New Place 2 Drown is included in our top albums of 2015.
Some of the world’s largest, oldest fish live in Oregon. Why anyone would want to vandalize them, even abduct them, takes explaining.
* In 21 states during 2014, gun deaths outnumbered car deaths. [pdf] * Drug overdoses are the cause of a recent spike in deaths among young, white people. * California has the most death row inmates in the US, hasn't executed anyone in a decade, but won't end the
* "Republicans tweet out flowery statements on MLK Day and even insist that King was one of them." * A cross-country trip to photograph the streets named after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. * A little more than a third of US employees receive MLK Day as a paid holiday. * Nearly
Jeff Desom creates dioramas of famous movie scenes, then populates them with holograms from the films. See also: Scenes from Dr. Strangelove reproduced using household objects
* A day after the WHO announced the west Africa Ebola epidemic over, a new case surfaces in Sierra Leone. * For the second year in a row, the Oscars are lilywhite. * The Academy's nominations show it values women more as subjects of violence than desire. * How the 2016 Oscar
Former inmate Chris Wilson demonstrates how he learned to paint with crushed Skittles and makeshift brushes. Via Huck Magazine
* After two years and 11,000 deaths, the Ebola epidemic in west Africa is now over. * "If Clinton keeps falling in NH and Iowa polls instead of rising, the establishment may not be able to bail her out." * Picking an SEO-in-Chief. * Al Jazeera America failed by misunderstanding the
The Rooster is hungry. Very hungry. Introducing the judges, shortlist, and Zombie poll for the 2016 edition of The Morning News Tournament of Books.
* Obama tries to counter the GOP's glass-is-half-empty conversation. * Minute-by-minute takeaways from the State of the Union. * In case you missed it: CNN previewed the State of the Union in the style of a Wes Anderson movie. * Obama spotlights criminal justice reform as an avenue for progress even in
Wherever you live, this video is about to make you feel a lot colder. By ZALUSKArt
* Bernie Sanders makes his point. * "The US had 43 presidents before Obama, but only five stood before Congress as Obama will this Tuesday night." * Ted Cruz's constitutional law professor says Cruz is eligible for the presidency—the Founders probably wouldn't agree. * Physicists spent a
What is the best way to honor a man like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.? Photographs from a cross-country trip to document streets named after the American icon.
* Sean Penn's renegade interview helped Mexico pin down escaped cocaine boss Guzman. * Conclusions from a new book on how isolated, commiserating extremists band together online. * French crackdown after Charlie Hebdo exposes a double standard when it comes to defending free speech. * Obama will campaign for the Democratic nominee,
Los Angeles drivers love to leave notes on windshields—passive-aggressive, or just plain aggressive. A vigilante sets out to communicate politely with the city.
* American drone strikes in Pakistan, as well as the number of people they killed, dropped significantly in 2015. * Almost 4,000 Pakistanis have been killed by American drones since 2004. * A staggeringly high amount of people killed by drones under Obama have not been military targets. * He may have wanted
* "More people will get into more trucks. Most of them will get where they're going. But a few of them will die." * Turkish police raid business making fake life vests—that actually sink—for refugees. * Hundreds of thousands of indigenous Peruvians were sterilized under a nefarious
* Hundreds of "drunk and aggressive" men molested women in a New Year's attack in Germany, stirring tension over refugees. * Susan Sarandon reports on the refugee crisis. * How each presidential candidate must perform in the early states in order to win their nominations. * Navigating the personal, legal,
Michael Chanan’s portrait of Pierre Boulez, The Politics of Music (1972), documented the composer’s quest to move classical music out of the concert halls and into public spaces. One of the 20th century’s most significant composers, Pierre Boulez, died this week at 90.
When five million people share your name, your Google-ability is miserably low. Will this forever change naming?
* With five months left to do anything, Obama is pushing nearly 4,000 new regulations through bureaucracy. * Obama's executive actions on guns will expand federal background checks. * See also: How federal background checks work. * The process of buying a gun in California, which has some of the harshest
The World Cup and its drunken fans are about to crash head-first into a repressive, restrictive society, where alcohol is illegal mostly everywhere.
* Hate won 2015. * DHS is preparing to deport "hundreds" of Central American families who fled violence this month. * At least 83 people deported by the Obama administration to Central America in 2014 were murdered. * Obama will soon announce executive actions on gun control. * Executions in Saudi Arabia reach
Why we like the music we do is a matter of personal history—and in at least one case, a profound experience of hearing David Bowie.
* The Coalfield Development Corporation brings affordable housing, employment, and mentoring to Appalachia. * People for Bikes lobbies for a five-fold increase in biking in America by 2025. * Five-step checklist for maximizing your year-end donations. * See also: Charity Navigator's guide to great gift-giving. * GiveDirectly lets you send money directly to
* Failures of Obama—and Bush before him—have created, for the first time, an unabashedly liberal Democratic Party. * Democrats reluctant to embrace millennial black voters don’t understand the numbers behind the movement. * "Starting Saturday, tribes can claim jurisdiction over non-Native men who commit crimes of domestic violence."
* Grand jury decides not to indict anyone in the case of Sandra Bland. * CBS edits debate focus-group footage to exclude Muslim-American commentary critical of American militarism. * Are Shkreli’s antics—not far from Big Pharma’s usual practices—enough to bring the industry to heel? * T-shirts already available to celebrate
* New Star Wars film has biggest opening in movie history despite not opening in China yet. * In Spain, Podemos party surges as two formerly dominant parties both lose votes for the first time in Spanish democracy. * How Israel is trying to restore domestic safety—steps the Palestinians call vindictive and
* Writers, editors, and thinkers reflect on things that were and were not important in 2015. * Encyclopedia for much of what was discussed this past year in the District of Columbia. * Election to head of government is associated with a substantial increase in mortality risk. * DNC suspends Sanders campaign's
* The GOP's foreign policy divide comes down to whom Republicans blame—George W. Bush or Barack Obama—for the rise of ISIS. * Spending bill to lean left, tax bill to tilt right: how Congressional sausage gets made. * GOP uses bills to gut online privacy, which Dems considered “small
We asked writers and thinkers to tell us: What were the most important events of 2015—and what were the least?
Outside Taos, this off-grid community’s 65 homes are made entirely of natural or recyclable materials and collect and produce all their own energy and resources. See also: Photographer Antoine Bruy hitchhiked around Europe’s backcountry, photographing off-the-grid communities struggling to survive apart from society.
* A fact-check of last night's Republican debate. * History shows a mainstream Republican beats Trump. There are no mainstream Republicans in the race. * "Yellen wants borrowing costs to return to pre-recession norms so we can finally declare an end to the Great Recession era." * The death penalty
Rachel Kolb’s short helps others understand the life of a lip reader and the magic of human conversation. See also: Rachel Kolb at TEDxStanford: “Navigating Deafness in a Hearing World”
* Acceding to party pressure, Merkel cites limits to multiculturalism, says Germany will soon stop accepting immigrants. * "The top Google search in California with the word 'Muslims' in it was 'kill Muslims.'" * Federal probes of police departments don’t always result in change, but Obama
George Saunders explains the difference between “Frank was an asshole” and “Frank snapped at the barista who reminded him of his dead wife, who he dearly loved.” See also: “I had read Ayn Rand at a vulnerable moment and I didn’t want to be one of those life-sucking parasitic
* How the DHS's shoddy beginnings begat pointless oversight and rampant fraud, smuggling, and sexual abuse. * More than 33,000 people who built America's nuclear arsenal have died from health issues sustained in their work. * Suburban office parks are becoming "obsolete." * Investigation into corrections officer-on-inmate
Tracking a single oyster from the Gulf to Bourbon Street, to a 1,300-ton pile of shells, provides a tour through Louisiana’s precarious coastal economy.
A longtime leader of New York’s performance art world, Martha Wilson’s photographs exist as proof of her experiments with multiple identities.
Watching a motorized Lego sculpture of Sisyphus pushing a rock would be enough to satisfy our brains. But the detailed frieze work puts this one in a whole new class of mind happiness. See also: A survey of the many names people call various Lego bricks
* Jury finds white Oklahoma City cop Daniel Holtzclaw guilty of 18 counts of rape and sexual assault, all against black women. * The full testimonies of the 13 women who accused Holtzclaw of rape and sexual assault. * Holtzclaw's mistake that got him caught: assuming all black women in Oklahoma
* Use of federal watchlists has dramatically increased under Obama; half of those being watched have no known ties to terrorist organizations. * Obama continues his push to ban those on the no-fly list from buying guns. * How Chicago's black police officers handle their department's legacy of brutal
* Not that it matters, but Donald Trump's anti-Muslim policy proposal would be impossible to implement. * J.K. Rowling says Donald Trump is worse than Lord Voldemort. * Pop star Zayn Malik's soft, subtle revolution against Islamophobia and the fear of Muslim men. * Study confirms that text messages
The long list for the 2016 Tournament of Books, with 86 titles culled from the year's finest fiction.
Here’s your chance to nominate your favorite work of fiction published (in English) in 2015 for consideration as a tournament contender—as well as apply to be this year’s ToB reader judge. One vote and/or entry per person. Deadline for both is midnight Eastern, Wednesday, Dec. 16,
* Trump's bid to bar all Muslims from entering the US shouldn't be a surprise—he's the candidate we deserve. * Election history shows that even during a normal year, Iowan voters rarely settle on a decision until the last moment. * Academics say most violence in
* France's far-right National Front party makes historic gains in Sunday's elections, securing at least six regions. * Five takeaways from France’s regional elections. * Clinton on reining in Wall Street: Strengthen the Volcker Rule, reward whistleblowers, extend the statute of limitations for major crimes to 10 years.
Give someone the right board game, and you're offering easy access to endless fun. Choose incorrectly, and you're giving misery in a box. Start here instead, with the best board games of 2015.
“One of my biggest pet peeves in art is the lazily-desaturated DSLR video,” says filmmaker Julianna Thomas. This video is her “personal response to treating black and white as an editing afterthought.” See more videos by Julianna Thomas
* Obama will veto, but the Senate just killed the ACA, defunded Planned Parenthood, and voted against denying terror suspects firearms. * A bill filed in Missouri requires those seeking firearms to face the same scrutiny as those seeking abortions. * The Massachusetts medical examiner takes an average of 242 days to find
* On a state-by-state basis, mass shootings like in San Bernardino do little to change gun control laws. * Rahm Emanuel threatened to withhold Chicago resources from black communities if the Laquan McDonald protests turned violent. * GOP's Senate campaign branch warns those up for reelection to stay away from the
Astronaut Helen Sharman recounts a dream she has of returning to space and viewing Earth from above once more. From A Place Called Space
Time-lapse tessellations of cities in motion. Directed by Florian Rouzaud Cornabas
* Much of the $260M in nonlethal military gear—e.g., Humvees—the US supplied to Eastern Ukraine rebels is falling apart. * Profile of ex-Chicago PD superintendent from summer 2012, as the city's murder rates were rising quickly. * Kern County, Calif., is home to America's deadliest police
The layout of the French capital is famous for its density and opaqueness. Under attack, suddenly transparency is the norm.
* New cases of diabetes in the US decline—we either reversed course or simply peaked. * Why black Americans with diabetes are more likely to receive amputations than white patients. * Shopping as a black woman at a gun show in rural Indiana. * In-state college football rivalries are class warfare, because America
When you’re not doing anything meaningful, why do it yourself? Directed and animated by molistudio
Sol LeWitt’s instructions for Wall Drawing #797 (1995), “The first drafter has a black marker and makes an irregular horizontal line near the top of the wall. Then the second drafter tries to copy it (without touching it) using a red marker. The third drafter does the same, using
* French police teargas crowds and arrest more than 200 ahead of the Paris Climate Conference, which begins today. * UN climate conferences are soap operas. * Elizabeth Kolbert profiles Christina Figueres, who is facilitating the Paris climate conference. * "In terms of the [Paris] negotiations, they're largely a sham."
From “Truth Trucks” to viral videos, Operation Rescue head Troy Newman’s word is his sword.
* Finally, the Pentagon admits the cause of the Kunduz bombing: "human error." * Businesses against Black Friday are principled—but also practical. * Son turns in his financier father as Petrobras scandal envelops three more of Brazil's most powerful people. * Giving people free money is the best solution
Plastic people acting like real people is a favorite of ours. As we can see here, Elon Musk has every reason to be worried about the future. See more videos by Pierre Grillère
* "The lack of sound, and the cold way the officers moved...made a horrifying act seem almost mundane." * The final stop for north-bound refugees is an arctic town as alien to newcomers as they are are to the villagers. * "What does ISIS want," behavioral economics version.
Max Richter’s latest composition, From Sleep, is eight hours long. This remix by Mogwai is your alarm. If you’re in need of slumber, you may do better with this.
In his video for “Siamese Brutality” by the Soupcans, Winston Hacking uses his fingers instead of a computer to animate his collages. From CMJ: “I decided the images needed to come to life before their inevitable destruction, so I just moved them around with my fingers and an exacto knife.
* Corporations salivate at Republican shutdown over Syrian refugees to pass raft of business-friendly legislation. * Foreign-policy experts keep their heads in the sand and their fingers on the trigger. * A poet remembers his chemotherapy, when he thought all drugs would be as harmless and effective as his mother's coffee
* While France seeks a US-Russia coalition against ISIS, the US is training Ukraine to fight Russia. * "Political correctness keeps us from talking honestly about the refugees." * Canada's Syrian refugee plan: only women, children, and families. No unaccompanied men. * Anonymous's latest PsyOps internet offensive: rickrolling
This is Jarbas Agnelli, “walking around [his] ranch, looking for everything that makes interesting noises.” His ranch sounds great. Drummers reinventing their craft never gets old.
Leave the pardoning to the president. For one budding farmer, some truths are self-evident: that turkeys are stupid, dirty, and very mean.
* Obama orders inquiry on whether intelligence was doctored into a sunny view of the military campaign against ISIS. * Damascus-area hospital operated by Doctors Without Borders bombed by unknown partisans. * "The attacks in Paris don't reflect a clash of civilisations but rather the fact that we really do
Like a Stonehenge in the present day, the Clock of the Long Now is a project to build a clock that can operate for the next 10,000 years. The project’s director, Alexander Rose: “In trying to design a 10,000-year clock, we’re invested in generational thinking and
* The Paris attacks were planned over the past 11 months. A January raid in Verviers galvanized Abaaoud's resolve. * Belgium’s system of local government, ruled by clientelistic interests, left huge cracks for ISIS to exploit. * ISIS’s first female suicide bomber in Europe grew up in Paris. Her
* "Russian airstrikes hit medical facilities at least 10 times during their first month of bombing in Syria." * As long as there's war, there will be famine. * Finding the connections between the Paris terrorists and their locations before and during the attacks. * "U2 had the opportunity
Throwing f-bombs may be offensive to some people, but it's also one of the greatest mental health regimens ever devised.
Social media makes it easy to virtually tour our neighbors’ homes—and really, their entire lives. The hard part: finding the clear divide between entertainment and cyberstalking. John Sherman reads “The Downstairs Gays,” originally published at TMN
* Paris police raid apartment believed to house the chief planner behind Friday's attacks. * "Western leaders and public policy intellectuals [tell] you what they will do about Muslims, talking at Muslims." * Islamic State's online "help desk" makes it easier for a wide network
* This is "precisely what ISIS intended." To win, France must recognize the feelings terrorists inspire in recruits. * Unlike the Charlie Hebdo attacks, France's mood isn't solidarity, but suspicion and hostility. * "When they come in they may not be extremists. But the way the
UFO sightings are common in America. So is a lack of political transparency.
* The Islamic State's grand strategy is to throw areas into chaos before stepping in to fill the void. * "Unfortunately, elements of European society are reacting as the Islamic State desires." * IS operates out of a surprisingly tidy lower-middle-class neighborhood in Brussels. * Friday's attacks follow
* US airstrikes intend to shut down two-thirds of the oil production controlled by IS. * Police arrest 16 in Italy, Britain, and Norway who were planning to kidnap European diplomats. * Donald Trump wants his poll numbers back, compares Ben Carson to a child molester. * The long, bitter relationship between Obama and
* "Everyone here, it seems, has an angle to work, scrambling to fill the void left by the collapse of the Syrian state." * A real caliphate would clean up the mess called IS. * Congress passes bill establishing legal rights for citizens and businesses to own resources in outer space.
* The VA is sequencing the DNA of one million veterans to better understand PTSD. * Ten percent of death row prisoners are veterans, most with PTSD. * America's H1-B program is a lottery—now it's a sham because large outsourcers are flooding the pool. * None of the Republican
The quirky history behind the secret, full-scale invasion that the United States once planned for Canada, and vice versa.
* "In the past century or so of European history there have been many more examples of disintegration than integration." * Cameron's demands for Britain to stay in the EU: a bigger voice, pound protection, limited refugee welfare. * A language barrier and poor government communication has left 400,
When the family pet nears the end, of course there is sadness. But there is also every other emotion.
* Severe budget cuts hit state AIDS units in India, which provide free condoms to sex workers. * Justice Dept. chooses 10 of 567 recognized Native American tribes with whom to share access to criminal data. * October's jobs report broke records, and statistically speaking, it shows the past two months
* Exxon Mobil investigated over possible climate change deception—like tobacco, it could result in years of litigation. * Since deregulation in 1978, the US airline industry has never been profitable for more than six years. * Internal TSA report finds that the TSA is terrible at its job. * "Jeb Bush could
* Inside the two billion miles refugees traveled to possible—but by no means guaranteed—asylum in 2015. * Why it's so dangerous to fly in Russia: aviacannibalism. * Romania's government collapsed after a devastating nightclub fire. * "Policy journalism in Washington is thriving. It's just not
Studying drivers across the country for signs of license-plate prejudice—or, why everyone loves Vermont drivers and hates Texans.
* Houston landslide vote makes whoever produced the pro-discrimination bathroom ad a hot 2016 commodity. * Around the US, voters kicked liberal causes to the curb. * Ahmed Chalabi, who pushed the US into the Iraq War for his own gain, dies of a heart attack. * The Manipulator: Jane Mayer's 2004
* Keystone XL pipeline company requests a delay for its government review—Obama still plans to veto anyway. * Antarctica is gaining more ice than it's losing; the bad news is there's a sea-level rise, and now we don't know why. * "It's the
* Russian and Egyptian officials dispute IS's claim it brought down the airliner that crashed Saturday. * Proposed bill would bar prosecutors from reading emails between prisoners and their lawyers. * Last year, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives inspected 7% of licensed gun stores. * The next time you
If you had to choose between the life of a loved one or the survival of a dozen other people, would you be capable of a rational decision?
* One-child policy raised the cost of raising a kid, making it too expensive for most families to have more than one. * To fight climate change, billionaires should buy up coal and never mine it. * "Elon Musk can keep on making $100,000 cars, but he should make some Teslas
* Weeks before the raid on Osama bin Laden, White House lawyers created legal rationales for every possible outcome. * Today marks 18,967 days since a US president died in office—a new record. * DNA testing shows two-thirds of "wild-caught" restaurant salmon is actually farmed. * Federal funding is scarce
Environmentalists are increasingly hugging people, not trees. Can solving climate change and achieving “climate justice” become the same thing?
* Deposing Saddam caused brutally destabilizing aftershocks. * Data breaches motivating corporations to hand over more and more responsibility—and sensitive information—to the feds. * George Washington's wealth was almost Trumpish. * US students' math scores fall—Common Core may be why, since it doesn't teach some of
* If last night's debt ceiling deal happens, it's good for Obama's legacy, Ryan's cotillion, and Boehner's barn. * South Carolina campus cop tosses desk-bound student to the floor. * A lack of sleep can undermine all areas of health—and blacks are
At the Harbor-UCLA Medical Center eye clinic, patients were going blind waiting for treatment. “Sometimes when you work in chaos, you don’t know how to get out of it,” says H-UCLA Chief Improvement Officer Susan Black. The system had to change, and a partnership with Toyota showed them the
A Manhattan wedding, a cancer scan, and the largest Atlantic hurricane ever recorded.
* WHO deems processed meats carcinogenic—less than two slices of bacon a day increases bowel cancer risk by 18%. * Meat lobbyists use inside influence to keep environmental impact outside scope of dietary regulations. * A history of the WHO's carcinogen findings and what "definitely," "probably,"
* Up to 25 states are ready to sue the federal government over yet-to-be-announced climate change laws. * Syrian refugees blaze a new path into Europe: bicycling across the Arctic Circle. * Giant hurricane headed for Puerto Vallarta. * Amex is finding itself in a precarious position familiar to companies who relied on reputation
* "Technology has helped make today’s struggle feel both different from and continuous with the civil rights era." * With nowhere to escape, rural bullying victims suffer more—online bullying is just as inescapable. * Endorsements are the best predictor of campaign success. And Biden had too few. * “In 10
With no more nudes in Playboy, an intimate approach toward sex is being lost—one longed for by soldiers in war zones.
* Putin greets Assad in Moscow, to Washington's chagrin. * Paul Ryan offers Freedom Caucus his terms for GOP speakership, which they have until Friday to accept. * An episode from Bernie's Burlington days offers an answer to whether Bernie is a radical or a Democrat. * “The public is
* The Democrats are set to win the White House—and lose just about everything else. * Washington Post accidentally publishes Biden announcement "shell story." * A brief history of Trump quitting before he could be fired. * Harper out, Trudeau in as PM. Atlantic Canada showed notable shift in support away
* Leaked drone papers warrant a Congressional investigation—Democrats must decide whether they'll take on Obama. * For a yearlong period, drone strikes in northeastern Afghanistan killed 200 people, only 35 of whom were targeted. * Drone pilot tells how his crew nearly blew up a man for smoking a cigarette.
Protesters are clashing in the street over paintings. What is it, whether in art or literature, that makes one thing better than another?
* Even if Russia is in Syria to further prop up Assad, so far it hasn't achieved much toward that goal. * US special ops analysts knew the hospital in Kunduz was a hospital. * Homeland is TV's most Islamophobic show. * Homeland graffiti artist: "This kind of stereotyping.
* Obama to halt Afghanistan withdrawal, where troops have now been deployed for 14 years. * Obama sends 300 troops to Cameroon to aid the fight against Boko Haram. * Russian hackers attribute their NATO server attacks to Islamic militants—they didn't reckon on getting caught. * Russian strikes in Syria give
Here are three minutes from Max Richter’s From Sleep, an eight-hour composition he calls his “personal lullaby for a frenetic world.” Download From Sleep
* The stabbing attacks perpetrated by Palestinians are spurred by social media, without any recognized leader. * The Turkish "deep state's" role in the recent bombing of a peace rally. * Photos of the hospital the US blew up in Kunduz, Afghanistan. * Lessig explains his presidential platform. * "Murdoch
* Iran's parliament passes nuclear deal; dismantling of facilities will begin next week. * Iran tries to get a prisoner swap with the US for jailed Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian. * Stabbing attacks in Israel continue, as two people are killed and 16 wounded on a bus in Jerusalem. * Nearly
To understand everything wrong about health care in America today, look to a horrifying trend in amputation.
* Double bombing targets pro-Kurdish peace rally in Turkey, killing 97. * "Europe has seen nothing like this for 70 years—the visible expression of a world where order is collapsing." * Iran's long-range ballistic missile test may have just violated the terms of the July nuclear deal. * More
* "If current rates of smoking in China continue...2 million people in China will die per year in 2030." * The House's best move to replace Boehner is simply not to vote, so he remains Speaker. * As the debt ceiling deadline looms, Boehner's departure threatens
When your keyboard turns literal and the toothpaste attacks, you can tell. It’s another one of those days. Directed by Terri Timely
* Senate Democrats will block all legislation until new gun-control bill is heard—and then of course killed. * San Francisco's last gun shop closes up for good. * The NRA's gun museum is as awful as it sounds. * The last time Russia involved itself in Syria, it was
* NATO doesn't buy Russia's apology for violating Turkish airspace. * "The release will be one of the largest discharges of inmates from federal prisons in American history." * When inmates blow the whistle on abuse in solitary confinement, they are tortured by guards. * In Kentucky, when
How nostalgia works and why social media may destroy it altogether, or restore it to its original purpose.
* EU spikes agreement that gave US companies access to Europeans' data for the past 15 years. * Ex-Santa Cruz sheriff may cross ethics line by promoting his smart-gun startup to former department. * Hedge fund manager that solicited Wall Street donations for Scott Walker's campaign: "I'm
What one journalist learned by vicariously sitting in on David Carr’s master class—with only his teacher’s reputation, extant syllabus, and students’ recollections to guide the way.
* Round-up of the big questions facing the Supreme Court's new term that begins today. * California police arrest four high-school students after uncovering a shooting plot. * Gun advocates have yet to explain how something in the American psychology, rather than our high volume of firearms, explains our homicide rate.
The Pope spoiled his trip to America by meeting with a Kentucky clerk. But his unheard praise of a different radical provides a silver lining.
* "Sandy Hook marked the end of the US gun control debate. Once America decided killing children was bearable, it was over." * President Obama makes the speech he wishes he didn't have to. * Obama: Chart gun deaths against terrorism deaths and tell me this isn't
* The one way Syria could get more complicated: Russian airstrikes. And that just happened. * Anyone who says Russia and America are on the same page right now would be lying. * Most Russians oppose military intervention in Syria—Putin is gambling with his popularity. * Afghan government says it's retaken
As colleges proceed to charge more and more, real-estate developers in the neighborhoods around them look to cash in.
* Germany is relaxing housing standards to a questionable degree to absorb wave of migrants. * Super PACs openly skirt campaign law by filming ad footage in advance or releasing it for free. * Trump's deficit-inflating, bourgeoisie-friendly tax plan is everything he said it wouldn't be—and par for
David Sedaris reads “You Can’t Kill the Rooster”—the greatest story in human history—about his brother Paul, aka The Rooster. The text for “You Can’t Kill the Rooster”
* The US should welcome Russia's entrance into the fight against IS, even if it means America gets upstaged. * Taliban took Kunduz at dawn. If defended, it will be the first provincial capital to fall since invasion. * Robert Mugabe shouted “We are not gays” at the UN yesterday, and
* Catalonians have voted for independence. Spain will have to decide whether to let them have it. * By 2055, Asian-Americans are predicted to be the largest source of the 18% of Americans who are foreign-born. * Since you seem to like the internet, you should know Jeb Bush is the anti-internet candidate.
* Major climate diplomacy: China to launch the world’s largest carbon market through a cap-and-trade system. * Egyptian president pardons journalists imprisoned for years—without evidence—as Muslim Brotherhood members. * Tragedy strikes Mecca: More than 700 dead in nightmare stampede at precarious pilgrimage site. * "Boehner is trying to avoid a
A listener calls into Nick Pandolfi’s radio show with the story of when his mother predicted a hurricane the BBC didn’t. Also: Proof animation obviates subtitles. Animated by Steve Kirby
Just as I remember it. Directed and animated by Yoann Hervo
Try as they might, toys can’t quite do anything people do. Though they may appreciate art. Directed by Vincent Tsui
* "VW has become a bigger downside risk for the German economy than the Greek debt crisis." * The VW scandal is ill-timed for Germany, which is chastening others over debt and refugees—and touting its low carbon footprint. * Related: "Schadenfreude does not square with America’s national obsession
* Hillary Clinton says she's against Keystone XL, days after a college student interrupted her, demanding its rejection. * China's president pledges to help the US fight cybercrime, says it's a victim, not a perpetrator. * A US-China "cyber arms agreement" is a good start,
* The Burkina Faso presidential guard attempted a coup—the rest of the army wasn't as enthusiastic. * Shkreli's pharma profiteering is hardly unique, but it sheds light on an odious—and dangerous—practice. * Scientists think they've isolated dengue's virulence to a single protein—
* Tsiprias calls re-election a clear mandate; Greece's fifth election in six years had record low turnout. * US military directed its soldiers to ignore Afghan commanders' sexual abuse of boys. * "They were novices, with higher voices than mine, and they didn’t know where to find an
A lifelong phobia is the result of a terrifying childhood incident. But the real culprit may be Arthur Conan Doyle.
* Initially saying asylum seekers could pass through freely, Croatia closes borders after 11,000 migrants pour in. * Trump doesn't correct questioner who says Obama is a Muslim. * Trump has shown us that if 2012 was the first internet election, 2016 is the first viral election. * Why aliens abduct
* For Putin, helping restore peace in Syria could mean an end to Western sanctions over Ukraine. * When pressed on the issues, Trump withers—here's a guide to what he stands for, as best as one can figure. * People are finally talking about Trump's anti-vaccine position. * Joe
In Nevada, friends build the first scale model of the solar system. Then they drive the orbits in a car, and we can feel how big it is—and how small we are. A film by Wylie Overstreet and Alex Gorosh
According to economists, if intelligent life elsewhere wants to kidnap earthlings, there must be a reason—and a business model.
* Hungary declares state of emergency as migrants continue to enter the country. * As Hungary tightens borders, migrants seek alternate routes; Croatian PM says they can pass through, but can't stay. * Putin promises continued military support of Assad. * Orbán is playing to Hungarian xenophobia—he may win the political
* "They leave behind increasingly empty neighborhoods—from the Damascus suburbs to the northern city of Aleppo—that testify to the scale of their exodus." * EU struggles to get member nations to accept refugees, as Hungary imposes new laws to deter migrants from staying put. * Today's Syrian
* Dept. of Energy suffered over 150 successful cyber-attacks between 2010 and 2014; 19 targeted nuclear weapons. * Reminder: US government information systems are routinely hacked. * MIT researchers: Government networks are antiquated, vulnerable because of a lack of research funding. * Richard Glossip scheduled for lethal injection this week; however, Oklahoma's
* Chicago police are focusing more on seizing firearms than arresting low-level drug offenders. * Chicago's South Side, where much of the city's violence takes place, to get long-overdue Level 1 trauma center. * US officials block documents detailing the Gitmo torture of Abu Zubaydah, who lost an eye
The victim of a robbery starts attending trials in New Orleans to understand the system while her burglar serves time in jail. Then he gets out.
* Oregon may be the driest state in the country, with 70% of the state in extreme drought. * California is currently experiencing its largest forest fire, which has burned through 160 square miles of the San Joaquin Valley. * Six brush fires alone were sparked by lightning in LA County yesterday. * EU
Because “buffalo” is a noun, a proper noun, and a verb, it can be used to form a one-word sentence. Just like “Ship-shipping ship, shipping shipping-ships.” Because English. via The Kid Should See This
John Cage’s best-known work is commonly thought to be a prank: four minutes and 33 seconds of silence. But that was never Cage’s intent. Instead, audiences should interpret whatever sounds may occur during the piece as the “performance.” Of his cover, Fraham says, “This rework could be considered
* Freddie Gray's family to receive a $6.4 million wrongful-death settlement from the city of Baltimore. * The Freddie Gray settlement is more than the $5.7 million Baltimore paid in total from 2011 to 2014 in police brutality lawsuits. * Some experts believe taking misconduct settlements out of policing
Created entirely through CG, this stunning short is based upon artworks by Yayoi Kusama and Ai Weiwei. It’s like Night at the Museum, but really really really really good-looking. “Themes & Variations” by Ziye Liu
A group of DC skaters finds abandoned backyard pools to drain and skate. From Run Riot Films
The next time you have insomnia, remember it could be worse. You could be a time-lapsed painting version of yourself. A film by John Shaffner
If a skater travels out of the city, far from urban parks and handrails, he does not cease to skate. A film by Vitùc
A “coyote” is a smuggler paid to traffic people over the border from Mexico into the US. This film is one coyote’s story, adapted from an original interview. Directed by Javier Barboza
After a lifetime of mental illness, one woman opts to try electroconvulsive therapy. She discusses her decision with her sister.
* Following the entry of 20,000 migrants into Germany, Merkel implores EU to accept its fair share of asylum seekers. * The child of a "guest worker" in Germany in the '90s knows how short-lived the goodwill can be. * As Europe struggles with one of its largest humanitarian
* Families are stranded in a Budapest train station as Europe and Hungary accuse each other of a humanitarian crisis. * The dangerous symbiosis between smugglers, migrants, and saviors plays out in the drama of a rescue on the Mediterranean. * Hungary: This is "not a European problem. This is a German
For the mother of a serial killer, a chance to connect with victims on live TV offers a shot at redemption.
* Barbara Mikulski's support pushed Obama's Iran deal over the top, the culminating step in a well-laid plan. * Republicans are eyeing how to delay implementation of the Iran Deal, or use it as a wedge issue against Democrats in 2016. * China celebrates Japan's WWII defeat
* Dennis Hale from "The Gales of November" died today—nearly 49 years after surviving the next-to-last Great Lakes shipwreck. * The migrant crisis: Germany welcomes with water and documentation; Budapest overwhelmed, closes train station. * Which European nations are letting in refugees. * Unpaid political ads—e.g., Trump's
Photos of poor, brown-skinned women, naked, in sexually suggestive poses, are flooding social-media networks.
* To catch up to Russia in the Arctic, Obama proposes Coast Guard icebreakers to operate year-round. * An interview with Goosebumps creator RL Stine. * After years of decline, murders are up in US cities; cited reasons include rivalries, more guns, and unaggressive policing. * Doctors rebuke police after patient is shot seeking
Fotos de mujeres pobres, morenas, desnudas en posiciones sexualmente sugestivas están inundando las redes sociales en México.
* Concerned it might break anti-terrorism laws, the British Library passes on Taliban documents. * French court orders disability allowance for electromagnetism sufferer whose symptoms are blamed on gadgets. * Seeking parole, jailed New York fortunetellers say the psychic industry is a scam. * Obama officially changes the name of America's highest
* Sixty years ago today, two white men killed Emmett Till—and the Civil Rights Movement began. * "They used to say that the little LA (Louisiana) had a direct line to the big LA (Los Angeles)." * Two extra days in jail is all it takes to turn a petty
Forget anxiety, overcaution, or just plain unhappiness. The real problem with parenting is philosophy.
* China is investigating 23 people it says are responsible for the Tianjin explosions. * To save New Orleans, the Mississippi River mouth must be abandoned, say engineering and design teams. * New in German vernacular: "Merkeln," which means "to do nothing, make no decisions, issue no statements." * To
* Pentagon investigates whether its ISIS intelligence skewed too optimistic. * Police get new high-tech toys, including unregulated phone-hacking Stingrays ("spy first, ask judges later"). * Freddie Gray's life was testament to another bulwark of racism: poisonous lead paint and the scams that preyed on its black victims. * Trump&
This summer’s ongoing war between Chief Keef and Rahm Emanuel is as much about urban history as holograms.
* Tensions ease between Koreas—North "regrets" land-mine maimings; South to switch off loudspeakers. * Every time the stock market loses this much this quickly, a rebound follows. * A young investor in China: "I have no confidence with regards to the future of our capitalist market." * "What
* Russia blocks all of Wikipedia over a page that explains how to make hashish. * Literary magazines for socialists funded by the CIA, ranked. * Twitter kills Politwoops, which monitored worldwide politicians' deleted tweets. * "Racism won't really get addressed in this country 'til people stop looking for
* Science: "Why so many humans are disgusting, heartbreaking, cheating scumbags." * The secret to a happy relationship could come down to science—if only it was so straightforward. * How couples will break up in 2115. * "I can tell you about the moment I heard Pimp C was dead.
* The Bernie Bunch is the problem. * Increased longevity means Japan can no longer afford to gift 100-year-olds with a silver sake dish. * Around 15,000 government email addresses were exposed in the Ashley Madison hack. * Latino children are scared of Trump. * UN will let Iran inspect its own alleged nuclear
Whatever this video is about, don’t worry about it. It is what it is. Whatever it is. Directed and animated by Masanobu Hiraoka
* German Parliament approves third Greek bailout, as Merkel faces conservative revolt. * Some 2,000 migrants are now arriving daily on the Greek island of Lesbos. * New Orleans, 10 years after Katrina: Officials tout recovery, while 100,000 black residents still haven't returned—and likely won't. * Hillary
How one family schemed to be the best TV-watchers in America.
* "President Obama declared a bank holiday, to the chagrin of President-Elect Trump." * Footage shows the prime suspect in the Bangkok bombings that killed 20 on Monday. * The IRS breach of more than 300,000 taxpayers' records fits the pattern of being worse than initially believed. * States move
* The NSA's decades-long partnership with AT&T was essential to the agency's surveillance program. * How ProPublica determined the NSA's unnamed telecommunications partner was AT&T. * The Iowa State Fair is hell on a candidate's campaign-trail diet. * Trump wins Iowa Fair
* US has "credible information" ISIS used chemical weapons on Kurdish forces in Iraq. * Over the past year, ISIS has developed a horrific, systematic market of sex slavery. * On the anniversary of Japan's WWII surrender, Abe expresses remorse, but—significantly—doesn't apologize. * Explained: Why Japan&
To produce food in the form of meat, an animal will be killed. Obvious but significant: You will realize you are about to end a life.
* "The heroin epidemic of the 21st century is largely a white person's scourge." * Connecticut Supreme Court rules death penalty unconstitutional. * Children of incarcerated parents suffer from depression and PTSD—which should be no surprise. * Workers' children are those most affected by unpredictable work schedules. * To
While you were (probably) sleeping, Earth was treated to its annual viewing of the Perseid cloud, a stream of debris flung behind the Swift-Tuttle comet. See also: NASA’s live coverage of the Perseid meteor shower includes four hours of color commentary by meteor experts. Perseids Wikipedia page
* "Data on use of force by police across US proves almost useless." * Pragmatically, a sixth New York borough will never happen. But what if? * Mapping how bohemian New York's boroughs are along an inverse relationship between income and education. * Clinton Correctional Facility inmates claim beatings and
Riley Blakeway shot “Life Therapy” using only available light from dusk to dawn. It has nothing to do with Point Break, but what a great movie that was. For a second there I absolutely thought someone was going to surf off that waterfall. rileyblakeway.com
Social media makes it easy to virtually tour our neighbors’ homes—and really, their entire lives. The hard part: finding the clear divide between entertainment and cyberstalking.
* Video of the Day, Ash Koosha, "I Feel That." * Robots are learning to play jazz—which is great—so they can improvise on the battlefield. Which is, well. * Robert Gagno is Canada's pinball champion. He also has autism. * Ferguson declares state of emergency after police shoot
The new Ash Koosha album, GUUD, is definitely worth your time. But if you don’t have that kind of time right now, watch this instead. Video by Hirad Sab. hiradsab.com
Robert Gagno is Canada’s pinball champion. He also has autism. Wizard Mode follows his journey into the international pinball circuit. This short film is a preview of the forthcoming documentary of the same name. wizardmodefilm.com
* Maura Johnston and Billy Joel close down the Nassau Coliseum. * "If you want to know why executive pay is skyrocketing...it's because of this change in the tax code." * Researchers are divided over whether there's a single property that links all languages. * Why jails
“What shapes us? Do we shape as much as we are shaped?” “You Could Sunbathe in This Storm” is a beautiful short film by Alice Dunseath that, at least to us, feels like the dead of summer and the dead of winter all at once. That crackling noise: Is it
“These animals have such a tolerance for humans. And we have no tolerance for them. These animals need to be protected. And we need to evolve in the way we see them.” The particular exhilaration of watching sharks at night, in a film with Joe Romeiro and Bill Fisher.
The next time someone tells you to go fly a kite, show them this, and they’ll invite you to stay and show them more delightful videos. Filmmaker Cy Kuckenbaker cut multiple kite-flying sessions into a single take: “In the near future, you will be able to make a video
* Republicans took center stage in Cleveland last night—and Cleveland is taking center stage in their strategy. * He got huge cheers for saying exactly what he thinks throughout the debate, never tempering his now-signature style. * The Donald wins with campaign finance reform: Don't blame me for the way
* Kerry sees everybody winning in the Iran deal—if Congress can keep its finger off the trigger. * What Trump would do as president. * The CIA said it was getting out of the torture business, but Panetta's correspondence suggests otherwise. * David Graeber: To overcome the circle of violence, we
When the media talks about social media, it’s always about young, white Americans. We spoke to a wider sample—including a sex worker, a pastor’s wife, a rapper—to see why people do what they do online.
* China outsources to South Carolina, where wages are offset by subsidized cotton, tax breaks, and cheaper energy. * The biggest corporate donors are supporting two candidates: Bush and Clinton. * Jeb's latest "misspeak" about overfunding for women's health suggests a troubling problem with debates looming. * Nine
* Republican candidates gather in New Hampshire without Trump and make bombastic statements of their own. * Stupidity in politics is old, going back to "bunkum" (1820s) and earlier; at least today we don't have duels. * Nearly 50,000 people have given to Ben Carson's campaign,
* Obama to unveil tough environmental regulations, attempting to stake out an uncompromising position. * Monday's Clean Power Plan announcement is one step, not a giant leap, for climate action. * In the new age of espionage, old-style human spying proves useful against advanced cryptography. * Profile of Darren Wilson, who shot
The video for “Other Side of the Boundary” by Springtime Carnivore, directed by Eddie O’Keefe, wraps what could’ve been 21 different videos for the song in one mesmerizing, unique montage. Eddie O’Keefe previously directed Springtime Carnivore’s “Creature Feature”—about the ghosts of five masked swimwear pageant
* College Board sugarcoats US racial history after conservatives threaten to drop AP courses. * Photo series shows how, in 250 years, the Mason-Dixon Line never really faded. * A painter scours Iowa for remnants of the Underground Railroad. * Jewish settlers set fire to two houses in the West Bank, killing a Palestinian
* Cameron vows to protect British holidaymakers and secure UK borders. * Planned space missions include asteroid redirection and Martian archeology. * Your app is probably lying when it shows Uber drivers near your location. * Trophy hunters like Walter Palmer are a big reason why we still have lions at all. * How an
* Barney Frank: Progressives shouldn't support Bernie. * Trump would rather end his campaign than face scrutiny—and then cash in on his new brand. * A 2004 profile of Donald Trump, PR genius. * White House curtails expectations of a Snowden pardon. * Critique and database of publicly disclosed information on what
* Inside a cat circus. * Americans are downsizing their calories, ending decades of food-gorging and weight gain. * NATO holds a rare emergency meeting to address the threat ISIS poses to Turkey. * Boston spurns Olympics—and precedent—by citing costs prohibitive to hosting 2024 Summer Games. * An open letter from Musk, Hawking,
* Former finance minister hacked Greece's tax records in the event of a return to the drachma. * The black dust caking Chicago's Southeast Side. * Flint residents can't afford water—and what they get is chlorinated beyond safe limits. * How to give away a home in
On Sundays when you’re ready to tuck into an evening of HBO, what you’re really doing is putting off the inevitable: another Monday morning of existential career crisis. What you should be doing: redefining your view of success. Animation for The School of Life directed by Lara Lee
* Life sentence recommended for exec who caused deadly salmonella outbreak. * As the threat of inquiry looms, State Dept. is overwhelmed with Clinton private email controversy. * Autopsy of Sandra Bland concludes no foul play. Family to seek independent autopsy. * Nearly six in 10 Americans, white and black, think race relations are
This computer is programmed to “sing” number-one ballads from the 1990s. As soon as one ends, another begins. It can’t be reasoned with. It doesn’t feel pity, or remorse, or fear. And it absolutely will not stop, ever, until you are dead. Created by Martin Backes, the machine
* For the third "straight" year, most Americans accept our gay reality. * New study: Glaciers melting 10x faster than expected; ocean to rise 10 feet in 50 years. * Trump has around 515 jobs and whether he's worth $50 million is anyone's guess. * Oncologists stand with
My parents didn’t want me to be a drummer because they were concerned I’d destroy their upholstery practicing rolls with my drumsticks. (This is not an unreasonable concern, if you’ve ever been to a drummer’s apartment.) If only they’d seen this video, they would have
Not everyone who breaks your heart is a monster. And not everyone who wounds you deserves to be wounded in return.
* From Twain to Strayed, an exhaustive map of American literary road trips. * Texas officials deny doctoring footage of Sandra Bland arrest. * Who said it: Donald Trump or Frank Reynolds? * A list of the world's uncontacted peoples. * In 1998 Al Gore dreamed of a satellite that photographs Earth daily—
Azel Phara, “Green” According to Bif, the directing duo behind the film, the pastels represent nature and the contrasting colors are “representative of damaging human action.” Directed by bif. Produced by Mill+.
* Humans are bad. Even the ones who made this spectacular video for Azel Phara. * Reporter asks hackers to commandeer his car to prove they could kill him. * Donald Trump's McCain comments show he doesn't know what he doesn't know about war. * Hot chicken was
This simulated flyover depicts Pluto’s Norgay Mountains and Sputnik Plain, named thusly in our continuing history of Earth-centric interplanetary exploration. The animation was created from images captured by New Horizons from a distance of 48,000 miles, and shows features as small as a half-mile across. Video via NASA
A record number of injuries and disqualifications in this year’s Tour de France is being blamed on addictions to contemporary fiction.
* Greek banks reopen, and first debt payments are made. * For now, Greek merchants say they'll absorb higher VAT, rather than punish customers. * Texas violates the 14th Amendment by denying birth certificates to undocumented immigrants' newborns. * The Austin American-Statesman ends in-house printing with a luscious web tribute. * Survey:
Mandatory minimum sentences are the product of good intentions, but good intentions do not always make good policy. That sentence on mandatory minimum sentencing—that bugbear of criminal justice reform—isn’t from the Center for American Progress or a sentimental Nicholas Kristof op-ed. It’s from a report by
* The Chattanooga shooter's blog had two posts, both about religious reasoning. * A year after MH17's downing, and we're months away from an official report. * Commandeering smart cars—and other ways hackers could kill you. * A roundup of essential reading about China's hacking
* There's no precedent to rescind a Medal of Freedom—Cosby should be the first. * It's 2015, and US immigration still hasn't switched from paper to computers. * After 145 years in New York City, FAO Schwartz shutters. * "In every Pixar film, the protagonist’s
A conversation with Sarah Hepola, author of the bestselling Blackout, about investigating the worst kind of memories—those you never had.
* IMF will only support Greek bailout plan if debt relief is in the package. * UN: 15,000 civilians have died in Iraq over the past 16 months. * Pyongyang invites every member of Congress to its anthrax-free facilities. * Israel, Saudi Arabia, and neocons hate the Iran deal—it means no war.
* Iran nuke deal goes to Congress—Obama will veto any obstruction. * New York settles Eric Garner wrongful death suit for $5.9 million. * Military to end ban on transgender service members. * Obama commutes sentences of 46 people convicted on drug charges. * Most of the 46 commuted sentences were for cocaine
Forty years after Jaws, why the very first blockbuster should be considered art—and how it helped one man to survive.
* EU's harsh Greek bailout terms are because of the nation's "no" vote. * Brief explainer of what you need to know about Puerto Rico's debt crisis. * Mexican cartel kingpin El Chapo escapes prison for the second time. * Serbian PM attacked at commemoration of
{image-1} This week many important American things were shut down by major technology issues, from United Airlines to the New York Stock Exchange, which isn’t without a Hollywood precedent. this is literally the plot of Live Free or Die Hard https://t.co/bXpkpTEFMJ pic.twitter.com/UGNp70MMcrJuly 8,
* US is OK with Malaysia's appalling trafficking record, because trade deals. * The story of the tiny team that saved healthcare.gov from itself. * China likely behind breach that leaked Social Security data on 19.7 million background checks. * Antisemitism undercuts French protests. * FDA changes ibuprofen warning to cover
* Wimbledon court attire rules—all white, not even cream—are being enforced like never before. * Every single word spoke by a person of color in [FILM TITLE]. * Today you are less likely to be bitten by a shark because there are more people in the water to bite besides you.
Migraines, 3D magic, and an unlikely correspondence from one “incredibly stereoscopic person” to another.
* "For most of the early decades of its existence, the extension of EU integration coincided with strong economic growth." * Star stock Alibaba takes brunt of Chinese economic downturn, hits lowest price since IPO. * Hackers for FBI are hacked, showing they're also retained by repressive regimes targeting
* "Black hole awakens, erupts after 26 years"—suddenly, 8,000 light years doesn't sound far enough away. * South Carolina measure to remove the Confederate flag heads to the House, where anything could happen. * Congress's rewrite of No Child Left Behind will become a debate
How to give away a house in Flint, Michigan, home not only to a water scandal but record violence.
* Today South Carolina lawmakers will start deciding the fate of the State House's Confederate flag. * Reminder: The US Capitol is still full of statues of Confederates. * NASCAR fans at Daytona proudly display Confederate flags that have "absolutely nothing to do with slavery." * "You never really
* A play-by-play on the controversy that's shutting down Reddit right now. * Episcopal Church votes to divest from fossil fuels. * Bernie isn't too radical—Gallup says 49% of Americans would accept a socialist president. * Clinton emails display telling responsiveness to Wall Street requests. * Jim Webb's
* BP to pay Gulf states $18.7 billion in oil spill settlement. * Cuba pioneers protocol to eliminate HIV and syphilis transmission from mother to baby. * HIV vaccine researcher goes to prison for faking results and taking more than $7 million in grants. * After decades of diminished crime, shooting and murder
* Greece to receive paperwork and side-eye for IMF default, which sounds more serious than it is. * Greek PM appears to soften on anti-austerity, and could remain in office. * Another historically black church was hit by arson last night, in South Carolina. * With no accelerant evidence, FBI suspects lightning, not arsonists,
* Ebola-free for more than a month, Liberia reports a new case of the virus. * Greek PM promises to resign if nation votes for austerity. * Everything you need to know about the Greek debt crisis. * New US pay rule would restore purchasing power for overtime workers to 1975 levels. * Utrecht takes
America is a proud nation of immigrants—try telling that to everyone on the other side of the door. Life as a white-collar undocumented immigrant in New York.
* SCOTUS takes a Monday victory lap with three final cases. * Arsonists have targeted at least six black churches in the South over the past week. * White supremacy, undercover. * Lessons learned by @afamhistfail after six years of teaching plantation tours. * Following ACA decision, investors bet on insurance market consolidation. * Texas to
“Newsome was halfway up the 30-foot pole when police demanded that she climb back down, but she continued upward and removed the flag.”
* Bree Newsome scaled the South Carolina State House flagpole and removed the Confederate flag. * Supreme Court rules against same-sex marriage bans. * Andrew Sullivan: "It is accomplished." * "A ban on discrimination in employment and housing based on sexual orientation or gender identity still eludes us." * Neither Texas&
* Supreme Court says Obamacare can keep tax subsidies. * Alabama governor removes Confederate flags from Capitol. * Democrat Jim Webb is the only 2016 hopeful who thinks maybe the Confederate flag should stay. * Bombing victim: Tsarnaev's apology was hollow and insincere. * Middle-class black families tend to live in lower-class neighborhoods
A near-death experience makes this week’s International Asteroid Day a little more tricky to celebrate.
* NSA spied on French presidents from 2006 to 2012, according to Wikileaks. * UN Peacekeepers accused of sexually abusing children in the Central African Republic. * "Colleagues say they are witnessing a more human side of Obama than they have seen before." * Secret World War II mustard gas experiments grouped
* Amazon and eBay are still selling the Confederate flag items you can no longer buy at Walmart. * "People are starting to acknowledge the evil and pain we see when we see that flying at our state Capitol." * A tour of a white supremacy subreddit: "a demagogic turd
Why it’s the duty of every white American to burn a Confederate flag.
* "If we were seen as living, we would not be dying simply because whites don’t like us." * FBI director says Charleston shooting isn't terrorism because the shooter lacked political motivation. * Hundreds of worshippers filled Emanuel AME Church yesterday. * Harlem church congregations swelled on Sunday, showing
* White Americans need to have an honest discussion about white culture. Because that isn't happening. * Today was the 14th time President Obama has given a speech following a mass shooting. * Lindsay Graham says the Confederate flag "works" in South Carolina—the shootings disprove that. * Dylann Roof
* Police identify Charleston church shooting suspect as 21-year-old Dylann Storm Roof. * There would be no Dolezal story without the stories of Kalief Browder, Tamir Rice, and Renisha McBride. * How the Dominican Republic stripped 210,000 Haitian descendants of their citizenship. * We've overstressed our worker honeybees, and that'
Dinosaurs haven’t been super-popular for 65 million years—it only feels that way. Fans and experts explain our obsession with dead monsters.
* If the court cripples Obamacare, happy Republicans will face millions of unhappy, uninsured Americans. * Artificial trans fats to be phased out of US food supply over the next three years. * French ecology head says Nutella's use of palm oil contributes to deforestation. * Inside the dirty tactics of last
* US drone strike kills al Qaeda leader who refused to join ranks with ISIS. * Nearly 27 years after his father was elected president, Jeb Bush officially announces his campaign. * Source code of Jeb's website contained several paragraphs summarizing the Die Hard films. * South Korean government requires smartphone users
Catfishing is usually part of an online romance scam—not the world of expensive French bulldogs.
* With the transfer of six inmates to Oman, Guantánamo holds 116 remaining prisoners. * Hong Kong radicals arrested with explosives ahead of political reform legislation. * Greek state TV network back on the air two years after being closed for austerity. * Iowa Supreme Court rules people have a right to be drunk
* Ahead of UN investigation on Gaza War beach deaths, Israeli military says no laws were broken. * When cops kill people, "excited delirium" is often listed as cause of death— doctors say it's not real. * "I’m tired of explaining I’m capable of complex, rational
* History shows if IS wins, we'll first contain it then begrudgingly accept it. * Paul Ford explains code. * Visual politics of the Israeli occupation, where social media documents one side or the other—but never both. * Diane Rehm asks Bernie Sanders if he's an Israeli citizen because
* US to send 400 military trainers to Iraq to battle IS, and hopefully stay out of combat. * Cushy capitalist gigs await ex-Obama staffers on other side of revolving door. * McKinney cop who pulled gun on teens resigns after investigation finds his actions were "out of control." * Albert Woodfox
Calculating the probable dates for very bad things—a catastrophic solar megastorm; Seattle destroyed by earthquake—that are likely to occur.
* Patient zero in Seoul's MERS outbreak "coughed and wheezed his way through four hospitals." * Pools have a long history as a racist suburban site of urban ghettoization. * Summer: "the season of hyper-surveillance and even more aggressive policing of young people of color." * A mother
No one’s surprised in Silicon Valley when a 12-year-old runs the family e-commerce store. But going to the same high school as Steve Jobs and liking it are two different things.
* Kalief Browder, who received national attention after his torture at Rikers, commits suicide. * Suicide rate in black teenagers has doubled since the '90s, even as the white rate has fallen. * Turkish ruling party loss could open door to left-wing, pro-Kurd coalition—or extreme nationalists. * The HDP say they can
* Hackers expose US government employee data—that's three federal data breaches in the past year. * Officials believe China is behind the latest federal data attack, and that it was state-sponsored. * Yesterday marked the 26th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square protest. * "It's not just that Curry
* South Korea closes more than 700 schools as a third person dies of MERS. * Two drugs already on pharmacy shelves are discovered to help treat Ebola. * The Red Cross raised a half-billion dollars for Haiti and built six homes. * Las Vegas, the youngest of the Southwest's water-sucking cities,
Photographs that find stillness in turbulence, moments close to reverence when almost nothing's in control. Peter Bohler walks us through what it’s like to find a niche in the world of glossy assignments.
* "The Senate has been riven into a strange mix of groups united by their ideas about surveillance and security." * The morals of Russia's secret army of misinformation operators don't always match those of the trolls they portray. * California's constant new crisis. * Never
* India's "mytho-nationalist" worldview. * How a University of Arizona professor precipitated media's transformed coverage of Caitlyn Jenner. * Sort through The Counted: the people who've been killed by police in the US so far this year. * China's strategic investments in infrastructure abroad
The American West is a myth. One Wyoming gunmaker looks anywhere else—abroad, in the past, in himself—for new wilderness.
* The Patriot Act is only mostly dead—the USA Freedom Act is mostly the same, without bulk telecom surveillance. * Rand Paul was ready for his closeup in last night's congressional tussle over spying. * In a smartphone-connected world, hurdling corporate and cultural roadblocks in the fight for the blind.
From Texas rodeos to New York City streets, black and white photographs find modern life endlessly surprising.
* Former Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert indicted for hiding payments made to alleged blackmailer. * Investigation into who owns London's most expensive mansion. * If you’re recovering a body in an apartment building, ask every tenant to make coffee—it covers the smell. * For the first time in
* The silence of FIFA's sponsors shows that the big business of global soccer still outweighs bad press. * Piers Morgan: Thank you, America, for bringing down one of the world's most "disgraced and disreputable" organizations. * The only way self-government can re-emerge in Libya, Iraq, Yemen,
The TV trope where one character sees another character naked allows audiences to be pervy without taking responsibility. Only “The Simpsons” gets it right.
* More than 1,100 dead from heat wave in India, where temperatures in some areas have hit 117 degrees. * "[Texas's] population and building booms are far outpacing efforts to reduce exposure to flood dangers." * FIFA officials arrested on corruption charges in Zurich to be extradited to
* Cleveland protests after police acquittal of cop who fired at least 15 rounds inside car of unarmed black couple. * In a $1 billion pay dispute, fuel retailers cut supply to Nigeria, shutting down businesses and transport. * Former Israeli PM Olmert sentenced to eight months in prison on fraud charges. * "
A day in the life of a professional orchestra—coffee, practice, social media, tuxedo—leading up to a performance.
* All six Baltimore police officers indicted in Freddie Gray's death. * US military flyover of Chinese artificial islands is either "entirely appropriate" or "provocative." * Today, Ireland could be the first country to legalize same-sex marriage by popular vote. * A close read of banks' admission
* New video of Freddie Gray arrest contradicts Baltimore Police report. * Photos of the ancient site of Palmyra, Syria, whose antiquities are now under threat by ISIS. * Crude oil spill along California coast threatens rare ecosystem that's one of only five in the world. * Europe's seal pelt
An alphabetical update to important stories that have fallen off the front page, from the existence of Atlantis to the Spice Girls' decline.
* Los Angeles passes $15 minimum wage increase, to be implemented by 2020. * On Iraq, candidates flub with "Given what we know now." * FIFA president proposes Israel-Palestine "peace match" to settle soccer dispute. * Thinking of history by generations is reductive, inaccurate, and always demeans the young. * Boomers
* White House bans transfers of certain types of military-grade weaponry to local police departments. * While Obama has retracted Bush's most creative unilateralism, the surveillance state remains off-limits. * Historian argues the American presidency has always been an elected monarchy—we just don't call it that. * State Dept.
There are eight million stories in a city. How many are there at Walmart? Random telephone calls made to hear about life inside.
* US and China may ratchet up sanctions on North Korea, whose nuclear program shows no sign of abating. * A shootout between police, biker gangs in Waco, Texas, leaves nine dead, nearly 200 arrested. * Former Egyptian President Morsi sentenced to death for prison outbreak during Mubarak's last days. * For
* China's on track to finish 2015 with the biggest reduction in both coal use and CO2 ever recorded by a single country. * In summary, Jeb Bush had a very bad week trying to talk about Iraq and his brother. * Coup fails against Burundi's president; coup leaders
Clemency is supposed to be a “fail-safe” in our judicial system. Thanks to a handful of powerful, well-paid political appointees, that notion is proving lethally incorrect.
* By flouting term limits, Burundi's president may have angered neighboring countries enough to support a coup. * US argues TPP will help agriculture exports—it will also export our awful reliance on processed foods. * After convincing—and even paying—chess grandmasters to play for the US, America is a
* Amtrak derails in Philadelphia, killing six passengers and wounding dozens more—still no cause determined. * On-the-scene photos and videos from the Amtrak derailment. * Brooklyn landlord's racist shortcuts illuminate the ugly mechanics of gentrification. * The plight of an NYC location scout is that the gritty city of yore has
What one woman labels kinky, another person calls a crime against cake. Offering a taxonomy of erotic fixations.
* Another earthquake hits Nepal: With a magnitude of 7.3 and two weeks after a 7.8 quake killed more than 8,000. * Jan Morris, who covered Edmund Hillary's 1953 climb, says it's time to end our unhealthy obsession with Mt. Everest. * See also: An interactive
A photographer earns the trust of marijuana farmers in California’s “Emerald Triangle,” as the clandestine world of cannabis cultivation begins to open up.
* Official alleges the public story of bin Laden's death is false—and that Pakistan knew he was in Abbotabad. * It's time to remake UK politics. * No one accurately predicted the UK election outcome because the polls didn't work, and that may not change. * FiveThirtyEight
For tens of thousands of years, wild horses have inspired humans—to nurture, to create, to slaughter—culminating in the past century of America’s legal and psychological battles over the horses we can’t own.
* David Cameron to return as Prime Minister; Conservatives take UK election after months of favorable polling for Labour. * Twenty-year-old student, youngest MP in centuries, rides wave of support for Scottish National Party. * GOP field to remain big and crazy for a while. * Because of Republicans' troubles with Hispanics, it&
* Cameron's Conservatives likely to win the most seats in today's UK election, but may not form the next government. * Senate Republicans expect to best more conservative Republicans in passing Iran bill without controversial amendment. * Tornadoes in Oklahoma City wreak havoc, cause severe flooding, release bears. * Carroll
The web is full of pundits looking to turn every topic into think-bait. One writer commits himself to thinking much, much deeper.
* Baltimore residents notice strange planes that turn out to be providing surveillance support from FBI to police. * Doonesbury's Garry Trudeau: Great satire doesn't demean disenfranchised minorities, it attacks the powerful. * Iranian-Americans confounded by census race questions that code them as white despite generations of exclusion. * Harry
Class isn’t supposed to exist in America, unless it’s overcome. But the art of being upwardly mobile doesn’t always come easy.
* Vengeful Jalisco cartel shoots down a Mexican military helicopter, accedes to power vacuum created by feds targeting top cartels. * "The swiftness with which the movement now acts has turned every police killing into a national referendum on the value of black lives." * Some US police departments look to
Inspired by memories of his own childhood in the UK—part joy, part Lord of the Flies—a photographer studies playgrounds around the world.
* Last night at an anti-Muslim event near Dallas, two gunmen were killed after shooting a security guard. * Elite patronage drives art-world delusion: "That by looking at political art we are somehow engaged in a deeply political act." * Texas's new governor capitulates to conspiracy theorists, deploys State
* Second man in police van with Freddie Gray disputes allegations that he was trying to injure himself. * Bipartisan bills in the House and Senate would reform the Patriot Act, prohibiting bulk collection. * Gap in life expectancy between the rich and the poor is widening, and social services aren't
* American Psychological Association accused of secretly partnering with the Bush White House to help justify torture post-9/11. * Hillary Clinton gives first big policy speech—on police and prison reform. * Multiple eyewitnesses claim Baltimore's Monday riots began when cops wouldn't allow after-school crowd of students to
Sometimes a bowl of noodles is big enough to absorb conversation, literature, and the love lives of those nearby.
* History weighs heavily on justices in the Supreme Court's first day of oral arguments on same-sex marriage. * Pilot Viruet, "Black Exhaustion." * While the city protested, Baltimore County celebrated its annual Hunt Cup with underage drinking, pastels, and no second thoughts. * Police unions may be the biggest
A young girl in South Dakota—the last school-age child remaining in her community—epitomizes the challenges of rural American Judaism.
* In wake of protests, Baltimore governor declares state of emergency, deploys National Guard. * When nonviolence begins halfway through the war with the aggressor calling time out, it exposes itself as a ruse. * Orioles' COO: "An American political elite have shipped middle class and working class jobs away from
Three years of photographs from Europe’s mountainous backcountry, where off-the-grid communities struggle for autonomy.
* Death toll in Nepal earthquake rises above 3,000. * Piecing together the first 45 minutes of Freddie Gray's police encounter. * In the past four years, more than 100 people have won judgements or settlements related to Baltimore police brutality. * US preparing to issue hacking-related sanctions against foreign entities
* When Americans have been killed, the Obama administration has found it necessary to...eventually acknowledge the deaths. * Kosovo—forever fond of the Clintons—has a clothing store dedicated exclusively to Hillary's sartorial taste. * Number of death row prisoners has steadily declined since its 2000 peak—along with public
An unusual DEA raid on one of LA’s most reputable medical marijuana dispensaries reveals the bewildering conflict between state and federal drug laws.
* In politics and business, families still hold power; a Clinton or Bush has been on the ticket in seven of the past nine races. * Outline of five factors putting Republican control of the Senate at risk next year. * Jindal: Defending freedom means protecting people who denounce gay marriage. * For a
The invasion of the Apple Watch is imminent. While the technology future it heralds is exciting, some of our wrists are already spoken for.
* Overthrown Egyptian President Morsi gets 20 years for ordering arrest and torture of protesters. * White House recognizes 1915 Armenian genocide without calling it genocide, despite Obama's pledge. * In the case of Dr. Oz's "magical" treatments, or Henry Gates selling out to suit Ben Affleck,
* North Carolina man died last week, and his family "respectfully asks that you do not vote for Hillary Clinton in 2016." * North Carolina bill will prohibit doctors from learning how to perform abortions. * Secretive division of the USDA killed over two million wild animals last year. * Small narcotics
We asked people around the globe—in Uganda, Ecuador, Fiji, and more—to make food from the opposite side of Earth.
Art from World War II's masters of deception—including the likes of Bill Blass, Ellsworth Kelly, Art Kane—who served in a top-secret unit that fought the enemy with trickery.
* EU leaders call for emergency talks regarding immigration policy after 700 more migrants are feared dead at sea. * Migrant accidents at sea en route to Europe are 30 times deadlier than this time last year—2014 was a record itself. * Inside the strong-arm tactics the White House is employing in
* Of the five Democrats who may run for president, three will be over 70 on Inauguration Day 2017. * The distinction between public officials and people with influence can be vague in some countries, including this one. * Italy pleads for EU assistance in dealing with influx of North African migrants after
The typical American consumes more than 100,000 words a day and remembers none of them.
* Con men swindle South Indian migrants who come to the Gulf for the promised land and find only cruel employment. * Four hundred feared drowned as another boat capsizes with North African immigrants heading to Italy. * Shell Gulf spill ate away mangroves that held an island ecosystem together, so it doesn&
An adventure of food and drink in San Francisco naturally expands to include Ornette Coleman, Mexican wedding cookies, and a pet monkey admiring the ocean.
* Obama grudgingly concedes to Congressional bill demanding authority in negotiations with Iran. * Despite her ties to Wall Street aristocracy, Clinton emphasizes her commitment to campaign finance reform. * A fierce primary would strengthen Hillary—so she needs Martin O'Malley to step up. * Ignore all the bad punditry about Clinton&
Prom is a big night for many teenagers, full of firsts. First corsage. First big dance. Never mind first time in a limo—with disastrous results.
* The UAE gave more than a million dollars to New York police—the paper trail goes mysteriously cold after that. * Police are rarely charged for fatal shootings in the line of duty because the burden of proof is so high. * Putin reframes WWII anniversary to consolidate Russian nationalism and prepare
* It's a flag—it's a Tinder profile—it's a street sign—no, it's Hillary Clinton's campaign logo. * Because the US is now largely Democratic, Hillary Clinton will probably win—unless the economy tanks. * The checkbox to donate to public financing
Dramatic photography from one of British Columbia’s most stunning spaces, under constant threat from mining development.
* Obama likely to remove Cuba from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism. * ISIS hackers take control of French television station, prompting emergency meetings of European media. * Hillary Clinton to announce her presidential campaign on Twitter this weekend. * Facebook users who don't realize their news feed is
* White House backs state-level plan to end LGBT “conversion therapy.” * Critics accuse California of Ferguson's crimes: extracting big revenue from minor traffic violations. * Malawi police told to shoot anyone attacking albinos, whose body parts are prized by witch doctors. * Tens of thousands of Dominicans of Haitian descent may
After decades of perfecting a homemade bread recipe, a single experiment transforms a home cook into an artisan.
* US secretly tracked billions of calls nearly a decade before Sept. 11. * Kissinger: Rather than enabling American disengagement from the Middle East, a nuclear deal with Iran will deepen our involvement there. * The problem with saying “no one wants war” is that some people do want war. * Republicans keep wooing,
Before he was America's favorite philosopher comic, he was just another comedian out on tour. And she was the journalist he wanted to meet.
* The difference between "immediate" and "gradual" lifting of Iran sanctions is millions of barrels of oil suddenly flooding the market. * The climate has changed: Earth hasn't experienced a below average surface temperature since 1985. * After centuries of decline, the Native Hawaiian population is surging,
A darkly pop sensibility turns familiar objects on their heads—so a toothbrush becomes erotic, and popsicles are strangers in a crowd.
* Flamboyant foreign jihadists star for ISIS—but muscle, discipline, and strategy comes from Saddam's old network. * From Garissa to 1962, when Kenya refused to let northeast corner of the country join Somalia. * Iranians joke about the nuclear deal. * Weeks after Gov. Brownback signed education cutback, some Kansas schools
* Half a million children are suffering the psychological damage of growing up in war-torn Ukraine. * Jeb Bush vacillates on Indiana RFRA only two outrage-filled days after he supported it. * Most of our water footprints are spent making the food we consume—one liter of coffee takes 1,120 liters of
The traveling salesman would seem to be an elusive, dying breed in America. In Sara Macel’s “May the Road Rise to Meet You,” she hits the road with her telephone-pole salesman of a father, rediscovering him in the process.
* Arkansas governor to reject legislation modeled on Indiana's Religious Freedom Restoration Act. * See also: Connecticut's women's basketball team is on a collision course with Indiana's RFRA. * McDonald's to raise wages and offer paid vacation to workers at non-franchise restaurants, or
* Assessment of mortal threats currently faced by nearly every significant initiative of the Obama Presidency. * Governor, Indiana is in a state of crisis. It is worse than you seem to understand. * Douthat: There's no reason to think we’ve reached a stopping point once the florists and bakers
* Negotiators meet in Switzerland this week to hammer out a framework for an accord over Iran’s nuclear program. * Results expected tomorrow from Nigeria's presidential election, widely lauded as a success. * This year there will be 14 or 15 presidential elections in Africa—two most likely free, eight
The TV series Mad Men is set to begin its final season. Finally we’ll know how many women—and how much Proust—it takes to make Don Draper happy.
The tournament action so far.
* Despite Netanyahu's denials, NSA documents show evidence that Israel spies on the US. * In private, Scott Walker backs what he can't say publicly: path to citizenship for immigrants already in the country. * Chief fanboy of The Wire President Obama interviews show's creator David Simon.
Whenever lethal injection drugs are unavailable, Utah will allow death-row prisoners to choose death by firing squad, citing it as the most “humane” option.
* Genome sequencing data from Icelanders shows that our oldest human ancestor lived about 239,000 years ago. * Humans are the only animal to suffer from schizophrenia, thanks to our big, complex brains. * Returned US soldier Bowe Bergdahl charged with desertion. * With US forces gone, Yemen quickly becoming a model of
* Nearly a third of the $1.6 billion Fukushima cleanup budget has been wasted through expensive and ineffective technology. * Obama pushes back Afghanistan troop withdrawal until after 2015. * Congress looks to add a permanent slush fund to the budget for war. * From yesterday's Tournament of Books decision, where
Stumbling onto a movie set in Los Angeles—and then staying there for as long as humanly possible—offers lessons in acting and reality.
* The Senate's treatment of Loretta Lynch confirms its anti-Obama pathology. * Cities clamoring to host sports franchises siphon off millions of public dollars, but an Obama budget provision would make incentives illegal. * Related: Sports world imagined without jingoism, racism, sexism, or owners. * What Ted Cruz would need to do
The bachelorette party can seem like a crude, commercial ritual. But at its core are emotional ties that bind.
* Lee Kuan Yew, founder of modern Singapore, father of the “Singapore model,” dies at 91. * Chinese Communist Party demands the Dalai Lama to reincarnate on its terms. * Man sees an argument with his parents, recorded in 1985, turned into a cartoon. * Profile of an amnesiac illustrator who can't
The tournament action so far.
* With an eye toward legacy, Obama emerges as a leading architect of an emerging global climate treaty. * Survey of Federal Reserve transcripts shows officials laughed most just before 2008's crash, and Greenspan landed the most jokes. * Chicago police commander resigns following "black site" revelations and civil
* Obama tells seventh grader he wishes he'd ordered Gitmo closed when he still had the chance. * It's time for everyone, including Dick Cheney, to stop playing "the race card" card. * Trend alert: Wealthy women are putting their babies in Hermès Birkin bags, thanks to
When viral stardom strikes, your entire future is suddenly within reach—would you capture it or just let it slip?
* Netanyahu reelected Prime Minister with 72 percent of Israeli citizens voting. * Haiti's president Martelly now runs the country without any checks and balances from parliament. * Presbyterian Church amends constitution to allow gay weddings. * Druckerman: To succeed at French dinner parties, “you must be a little bit mean but
When art is staring you in the face, you can’t look away.
* "Surging rhetoric" against Iran and the Palestinians from Netanyahu before today's election in Israel. * US Army opens investigations into Iraqi detainee abuse allegations from 2003. * What to expect on the first few days following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. * See also: One-third of the wrestlers
* Robert Durst, subject of HBO doc The Jinx, arrested in murder charges after accidentally admiting his guilt on camera. * Putin re-appears after a 10-day sabbatical from public life, refusing to explain his disappearance. * Putin’s carefully cultivated image rests on never showing weakness, which is crucial in hypercompetitive Russia. * Patricia
We’re one week into the 2015 Tournament of Books. You can grab some updated brackets here that reflect which books have been knocked out and which books remain in the competition. On Monday the tournament kicked off as Matthea Harvey advanced The Bone Clocks over Adam. Of the decision
* Giuliani says Obama is to blame for the latest shootings in Ferguson, calls Brown's death “a justifiable homicide." * Protests in Ferguson—or fear thereof—drove huge spike in Missouri gun sales. * NASA launches four spacecraft to study the give-and-take of the Earth and sun's magnetic
In a life of perpetual movement, the moment arrives when you find yourself desperate for stillness.
* Two officers shot outside the Ferguson Police Department during night of protest. * White millennials appear to be no less prejudiced than the rest of the white population. * Critics who say Empire uses the worst of black stereotypes forget that black characters are free to be flawed. * Republicans startled by PR
Brief updates on important stories that have tumbled off the front page—“Carry That Weight,” Brownbackonomics, the ice bucket challenge, homophobia in Russia, and more.
* Towelette that washed up in Western Australia being tested to see if it came from lost flight MH370. * Utah reinstates firing squad as backup to lethal injection. * Lebanese TV host pulls the plug on a sexist Islamic scholar after he tells her to "shut up." * Review of the
* US calls Venezuela a national security threat and sanctions top officials. * Isaac Herzog emerging as genuine threat to Netanyahu in Israel's March 17 elections. * Bill Clinton's portraitist reveals that he worked some of Lewinsky’s stained dress into the official portrait. * See also: George W. Bush&
Stella Maria Baer has made a life for herself in the Northeast. But her ethereal treatment of the cosmos and the desert have won her a massive, devoted following.
* Obama tells a crowd in Selma, "We know the march is not yet over." * Selma today is a place expected to carry perhaps more symbolic weight than any small city can bear. * Senator Lindsay Graham reveals he has never sent an email. * For media geeks: War stories from
* White supremacy is the machinery of Galactus which allows for the potential devouring of everything you own. * Federal agencies, especially DOJ, launch quiet resistance against FOIA reform. * Ballooning campaign contributions to judges fly under the radar, despite growing attention to money in politics. * Oil company won't let youth
* Justice Dept. investigation finds endemic civil rights abuses in Ferguson PD. * Related: For evidence of racial bias in Ferguson PD, look to an impartial judge: radar guns. * Fellow opposition leader Navalny blames Russian government for Nemtsov murder. * Russia accuses the US of stoking mass protests and financing opposition movements within
* Amid steelworker negotiations, Shell announces plan to deploy scabs at refineries nationwide by summer. * An al Qaeda founder-turned-spy tells how he indoctrinated new Islamist recruits and how theology drove him to leave. * Air pollution concerns spur talk of a "Silent Spring" in China—but the air is just
* Hillary Clinton used only personal email to conduct government business during her Secretary of State tenure. * Kurdish Workers Party attracts Western volunteers in ISIS fight—some are loath to accept its leftism. * Forty percent of Syriza condemn austerity deal; many in Greece believe the Euro is worth saving. * Cuba remains
* Jewish Democrats are stuck in the middle. * Arizona conservatives petition US Supreme Court to strike down independent review of redistricting. * A chronological visualization of all 1,175 people killed by police in the US in 2014. * Reneging on promises, France has yet to provide reparations to Algerians affected by nuclear
Niagara Falls is known as the perfect place for a romantic honeymoon, or a spectacular death. Rebecca Bird’s paintings capture arrested motion with poise, mystery, and careful attention.
* German lawmakers expected to pass a four-month extension of Greece’s bailout plan. * Ski resorts experiment with variable pricing, rewarding customers for committing early. * Environment committee chairman and noted climate-change denier throws snowball on the Senate floor to make a point. * "Rich white boy" New Orleans lawyer builds
* Clinton Foundation accepted millions from seven foreign governments while Hillary was Secretary of State. * Two ISIS fighters explain why they joined. * ISIS lays waste to Mosul's cultural heritage, including UNESCO sites and rare books. * Americans are approaching a consensus on immigration, and in a very different place than
* Chicago's incumbent mayor Emanuel fails to win more than 50% of the vote despite big advantages. * Chicago police found to be operating a "domestic black site," where detainees are abused in secret. * Perhaps predictably, David Brooks thinks Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton at the Public Theater is
Our urban future is upon us, city planners tell us, but residents’ on-again, off-again relationship with their surroundings makes them want to say goodbye to all that.
A look back at the dethroned NBC Nightly News anchor’s storied history, in his own words.
* Obama to veto legislation today, without "a lot of drama or fanfare," that would approve the Keystone XL pipeline. * Fifteen former students of for-profit Corinthian Colleges go on debt strike. * No end in sight for Venezuela's condom shortage. * Two-day uprising at Texas immigrant detention center only
Too often we assume art requires interpretation. But paintings don’t need to broadcast meaning to be meaningful.
* Syriza buckles, will accede to four-month extension of austerity in Greece. * Steelworkers expand strike, the largest since 1980, to Port Arthur; Shell refuses to budge on safety demands. * Forceful demonstration flares in Texas private prison; inmates were protesting medical neglect. * See also: Cadre of architects question ethics of prison design.
When the world ends, CNN won’t be the only channel with a doomsday video ready for broadcast.
* Before working at Gitmo, a Chicago detective may have tortured and wrongfully convicted people of color for years. * Louisiana refuses to compensate Glenn Ford for the 30 years he spent on death row for a murder he didn't commit. * NSA and GCHQ hacked one of the world'
* Justice Dept. prepared to sue Ferguson PD over racial discrimination if it doesn't make recommended changes. * Football in general, and football fans in particular, can't persuade a racist not to be a racist. * MLK was a Trekkie, and in 1969 he convinced star Nichelle Nichols (Uhura)
Recent astronomical discoveries have expanded our understanding of the universe—and messed up godhead performance reviews.
The 2015 Rooster crows on March 9, which means it’s time to download this year’s brackets to make your picks for which books will live, which ones will die, and which ones will live, then die, then get zombified in the 2015 Tournament of Books, presented by Field
* Aggressive form of HIV discovered in Cuba; the strain progresses into AIDS three times faster. * Stronger marijuana may pose higher risk of psychotic disorders. * Rome officials panic as ISIS makes its way into Libya, just across the Mediterranean from Italy. * Young Chinese, attracted by Jon Stewart's transparency message,
Call it Kreider’s Law: You can’t be grateful to be alive your entire life. Especially when there's an arms race going on inside your head.
A visit to the New York studio/living room of a family’s style director who has a week’s worth of laundry ahead of her.
* West Virginia declares state of emergency after a train crashes, leaking Bakken crude oil into the Kanawha River. * Boston's contract prohibits non-union workers; it's instead paying prisoner pennies to shovel record snowfall. * Citing State Dept. guidelines, UMass is not accepting Iranian students for programs in science
* Everything ISIS does is calibrated to bring apocalyptic prophecy to fruition; that prophecy says Jordan has to be next. * In long-secular Turkey, parents confront a new reality: Islamic education. * The recent, odd history of USB dead drops—in Iran, they've been used for weed purchasing tips. * Silk Road
* Chelsea Manning to be first Army veteran provided transgender therapy. * Including the financial world. * FBI director discusses unconscious racial biases, believing America hasn't tackled race after Ferguson. * New York City goes a record 10 days without a murder, and criminologists can't say why exactly. * Forecasters warn
* Leaders of Ukraine and Russia agree to tentative truce to begin this weekend. * See also: Ukraine borders porous enough to allow 30 billion cigarettes to sneak through. * If Obama gets the nod to fight the Islamic State, it'll be a ringing endorsement of unlimited presidential war making. * "
Better to have loved and lost—and best to have written an essay about it. Surviving the Russian melodrama of young love.
Love of food can be love’s most sincere form—especially when avocados are involved—but also bittersweet if paired with departure.
* An estimated 20,000 foreign fighters have traveled to Iraq and Syria to join IS, including 150 from the US. * Obama to withdraw most troops from West Africa and declare the five-month Ebola effort a success. * Trumpeting supremacy clause Obama confident Supreme Court will raise LGBT rights to a federal
* Controversy reignites over Italy's end of search and rescue after 29 migrants die aboard a coast guard boat. * Bulging with immigrants and without jobs for the young, Eastern Europe's economies need to make up ground. * Since 2006 a North Carolina state agency—the only of its
Where there’s smoke, there’s smuggling. Before the Ukrainian border became a dangerous war zone, it was a profitable bootlegging arena.
Over seven years, an artist watches a beloved forest suffer a “massive tree mortality event,” then gradually recover and become something new. The result: a lesson in entropic beauty.
* Defying federal law, Alabama Chief Justice orders judges not to award marriage licenses to same-sex couples. * Leaders will convene in Minsk to iron out differences driving Ukraine conflict; solution could include a DMZ. * In "Grexit" drama, internal opposition girds Greece's finance minister against easy answers to
* Rebels, Ukrainian authorities agree to allow civilian evacuation from the current fighting in eastern Ukraine. * The first pope to address Congress, Francis will wield authority over the core of modern American political debate. * MLK's mother was also assassinated—like other black women leaders she's left out
* According to a former Al Qaeda operative, US partner Saudi Arabia had a strong alliance with the terrorist group prior to 9/11. * Ukraine’s war enters its deadliest period since September's nominal ceasefire. * Netanyahu and Boehner's decision to cook up a speech to Congress behind
Because the blinders were on last year, a 2015 resolution to become more culturally aware: to read more books, watch more movies, and listen to more albums.
In the last 25 years, more than two dozen new countries have been recognized by the international community. But secession isn’t easy, as Somaliland’s success story proves.
* Murdered Argentinian prosecutor had drafted an arrest order for President Kirchner, but hadn't yet delivered it. * Uber says it's helping to reduce drunk driving, but there's little evidence to support that claim. * Jordanian pilot killed by ISIS may have died a month ago—making
Biker rallies, rodeos, and other loud gatherings in the American South. Watch out for the flaming torches.
* White House: Officials will delete private information collected on Americans that has no intelligence purpose. * The case for Obama's library on Chicago's South Side raises questions about U of C's role there. * One of the spaces in Rep. Aaron Schock's new DC
* Mitt Romney declines to run in 2016; contenders Christie and Bush jockey for support of Romney's donors. * Obama submits annual budget to Congress, proposes tax on overseas earnings to finance infrastructure investments. * Al-Jazeera journalists freed after 400 days in Egyptian prison. * Following the murder of two citizens by
In Woodstock, Ill., where “Groundhog Day” was filmed, hundreds of fans gather every year, year after year, to celebrate their favorite movie.
A couple’s decision to combine bookshelves supplies a series of revelations.
* Poverty determines who lives and dies—medicine must find equitable ways to finance healthcare. * Rand Paul moves with progressive Democrats—albeit uneasily—on criminal justice reform. * Bobby Jindal is a hypocrite: He thinks Muslims should be secular, but has no such expectation of Christians. * Oklahoma's new seismic activity
Your party-conversation brief on the most important stories that no one’s talking about anymore—the plight of the Segway, internet child exchanges, Ebola, the current fortunes of Seal, and more.
* The Ebola virus is mutating; scientists fear it could become less deadly, but more contagious. * The West is outraged over the police killing of a protester, while the Egyptian government is outraged over the outrage. * Oil is a big motivator for third parties getting involved in wars, according to new
* Koch brothers to spend $889 million in 2016 election, $166 million more than Democratic and Republican parties spent in 2012. * For all the hype, Warren won't be the Democrat pushing Clinton to the left—it'll be Obama. * Earth's temperature in 2014 was the highest
When insomnia and technological convenience collide, a lifetime of binge reading reaches its full potential.
A visit to the granddaddy of Japan’s capsule hotels—with cot-sized individual spaces and shared amenities—and a lesson in different methods of getting along.
* Kurdish forces retake Kobane from ISIS, though US resists declaring victory yet. * Related: For world's biggest nation without a state, Kurdish statehood finally within reach. * Auschwitz was liberated 70 years ago today; six survivors return to the site to tell their stories. * Former CIA officer found guilty of
Photographs of communities existing around the mine dumps of Johannesburg, South Africa—defunct mines that were closed decades ago being re-mined for any traces of gold.
* Far-left Syriza party wins election in Greece, signaling trouble for the country's international creditors. * An attack by separatist militants leaves 80% of Pakistan without power. * Same-sex marriage may be legal in socially conservative Oklahoma, but it's far from simple. * Nuer refugees fled South Sudan, and converged
Just before and right after President Obama’s State of the Union address, an editor telephones complete strangers around the country, to find out what’s really going on.
* An initial 300 vials of the experimental Ebola vaccine will arrive in Liberia tonight. * King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia dies, spurring questions about succession at a critical time. * The Obama Administration has quietly tabled its proposal to reform the NSA's collection of telephone metadata. * Liberal disenchantment with NAFTA
* Justice Department prosecutors to recommend no charges for Ferguson officer Darren Wilson. * Spanish "translation" of Republican response to the State of the Union includes immigration reform—but the original English version did not. * Colorado's late start gives its weed businesses an edge on Californian rivals. * "
Ignore the critics: Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar” is not only a serious, complex comment on space policy, it’s a heartbreaking, philosophical look at the value of time.
* Prior to the speech, the White House posted the State of the Union online in the name of political participation. * HealthCare.gov shares user information with dozens of third parties, allegedly to improve customer experience. * State Department calls a coup in Yemen anything but a coup in Yemen. * Mayor of
The latest works from the author will be given with pleasure, and received with thanks, but we need your support.
* Tonight's State of the Union, expected to address income inequality, is a final chance to set the agenda before the next campaign. * See also: Transcripts and, where possible, video of every State of the Union address. * Even when black Americans make it to the middle class, their children
An American in Dijon, France, brings his country’s grasp of recent terrorism to a nation enthralled by theory, traumatized by attack.
The Supreme Court will soon deliver a definitive ruling on same-sex marriage, a subject that has roiled the United States since the colonial era—or not. A brief illustrated history.
* When the measure to create MLK Day passed in 1983, 112 members of Congress opposed it; six are still office. * Like the tactics of MLK, the Black Lives Matter movement embraces direct action and discomfort—not just nonviolence. * A father brings his daughter to a civil rights protest and wonders
* Police raids in five towns around Paris net 12 suspects in connection with last week's terror attacks. * An anthropologist explains the Paris attacks. * In Belgium, terrorists killed in firefight with police; they were suspected of planning attacks on Jewish schools in Antwerp and Brussels. * France is seeing a
* Charges filed against Iguala mayor in the October kidnapping and disappearance of 43 students. * Reelected after pleading guilty to sex with a minor, Virginia State senator spends half his day in office and half in jail. * Defending pot legalization, 2Chainz lays out a conservative philosophy. * See also: Transcription errors lead
Idea for a television show: a teenager has the power to turn fantasy into reality—but she doesn’t know it. It's “Amelia Bedelia” meets “Quantum Leap.”
* What to expect in the new Charlie Hebdo: crude sexual cartoons, and one lampooning Je Suis Charlie T-shirts. * Reckoning with Charlie Hebdo requires confronting France's racist, unexorcised past. * In the wake of last week's terrorist attacks, David Cameron vows to crack down on "safe spaces&
* Central Command hackers claimed to be ISIS, but were mere pranksters, Pentagon says. * Just because Centcom's Twitter account has been hacked doesn't automatically mean that Centcom itself has been hacked. * Excellent Human Rights Watch report on the crisis in the Central African Republic, where the UN
You can learn how to read a poem, but you can’t choose how it will affect you. Here, a little cough launches a journey through a reader’s mind.
Paintings of divers, ships at sea, and Superman—wearing underpants or not—find common ground in quiet mystery.
* Several million people spill into Paris streets for anti-terrorism rally, the country's largest in history. * Kerry deflects criticism that no high-ranking White House officials marched in Paris, says he'll drop in on Thursday. * Terrorists behind France attacks collaborated while claiming allegiance to rival factions in ISIS
* Hostage situations in Paris related to the Charlie Hebdo attack and yesterday's murder of a police officer. * Dozens of Charlie Hebdo front pages from around the world. * Police officer Ahmed Merabet died protecting a magazine that ridiculed his faith. * US officials believe al Qaeda may be behind the
* Police officer shot dead south of Paris; one man is arrested, one is on the run—no known link to the Charlie Hebdo attack. * A rundown of what's currently known about the three suspected Charlie Hebdo attackers. * Former Onion editor: The saddest, most profoundly ironic thing about it
In which the novelist and magician Tim O’Brien makes the author disappear, and a family funeral puts a father’s sleight of hand on full display.
Paintings of peculiar worlds where butterflies sizzle in frying pans. The more you pay attention, the less you’ll understand.
* NYPD echoes 1981 Milwaukee, where police walked out after a black alderman gave voice to minorities' fear of police. * Whites controlled black employment in Tchula, Miss., for as long as they could, then left and took all the jobs with them. * Like pretty much all the shortcut solutions Silicon
The Rooster begins to stir from his hibernation, and he is hungry. Introducing the judges, shortlist, and Zombie poll for the 2015 edition of the Tournament of Books.
* The 114th Congress opens today; members are more diverse, but still 80% white, 80% male, and 92% Christian. * A former rep reflects on 14 years in Congress. * Decline in New York arrests foreshadows looming tension between proactive Bratton and a reticent force. * Gender violence is so accepted in Mexico that
* Global intersections of language and information reveal the elite's continuing reliance on European languages. * For second funeral in a row, hundreds of NYPD officers turn their back on DeBlasio. * See also: Backwards-facing seats on airplanes are 10 times safer, but riders don't want them. * Twenty-four of
If you can't wait to find out what 2015 will bring—from John Galliano's Cosby sweaters to Jenny McCarthy getting polio—wait no longer. (Spoilers ahead.)
Music writing and music enthusiasm don't mix—let's change that. With the help of an army of YouTube commenters, we gush over our selections for the 31 best albums of the year.
* Donate to the PEN American Center and help promote literature and defend freedom of expression. * Tips for holiday giving. * DMI produces radio and television broadcasts in developing countries that encourage people to adopt improved health practices. * The WFF provides free, comprehensive obstetric fistula repair surgery and services to women and
The staff choose their most-liked pieces published in 2014: a painting expedition through the Underground Railroad, a personal memory of Vivian Maier, and a restaurant review that isn’t a restaurant review.
* Experts examining the Sony case call North Korea's guilt into question, pointing to signs that hackers were English-speaking insiders. * National Geographic's "People" photo of the year: a woman on her smartphone. * Bilingual people may make more rational decisions when communicating in their second language.
* Sony Pictures pivots, with attorney saying The Interview will be released in some format. * Hollywood should let the world know "we prize our goofy movies, along with the important ones, and the freedoms that they represent." * For smaller nations, cyber warfare proves to be a better investment than
But because our readers have requested us to do this, and because we enjoy doing this—telling you what books we loved in 2014—here is our long, long list: 62 books we believe represent some of the finest works of fiction published in English (mainly in America) this past
* Justice Dept. to sue Rikers Island, where harsh treatment of teen prisoners by guards has raised concerns. * Sanctioning Venezuela won't help human rights—it only showcases America's hypocritical approach toward Latin America. * BBC finds evidence of Apple labor breaches, including the possibility it buys tin from
As President Obama enters his final days in office, a proper assessment of his tenure requires a variety of measurable, non-political categories: golf, offspring, homebrewing, and more.
* Officials connect North Korea to the Sony hack, but are reluctant to pursue further in the face of other negotiations. * With screenings cancelled and no plans for video, killing The Interview could cost Sony $100 million. * Sony should sell The Interview to Netflix and become a hero in the face
* Pakistani city of Peshawar buries its dead after a Taliban attack at a school killed at least 140 children and staff. * Putin should look to Britain's Black Wednesday from the '90s to keep his ruble from falling too far. * Slipped inside the recent federal spending bill was
Before the days of GPS, sailors navigated using the feel of the waves. On a mission to learn the ocean's secret rhythms, a researcher discovers a coded message in a ship logbook.
* Taliban attacks an army-run school in northwestern Pakistan, killing more than 120 children. * Despite state charges and Muslim skepticism, Sydney attacker professed himself an advocate of peace and a spiritual healer. * The New Yorker's archival photos of MLK's Selma march. * Inside the Ferguson movement, young people
At an Elvis festival in rural Canada, scores of tribute artists (not "impersonators") pay homage to the King. When searching for the meaning of it all, try not to overthink it.
Female subjects painted in classics by old masters—“Diana After the Hunt,” “The Rape of Europa”—get their voices restored, and with them new narratives and powers.
* ISIS began in 2004 at an American-run prison in Iraq—a golden opportunity for future terrorists. * Senate passes spending bill, but not without another shutdown scare from Ted Cruz. * Following the dismantling of Hong Kong's final Occupy site, protesters urge people to refuse to pay taxes in "
Understatement can help us cope with disaster. But in the case of Paul McCartney, a little doesn’t always go a long way.
* Senate to begin debate on a $1.1 trillion spending bill that narrowly passed last night, avoiding a government shutdown. * Related: Cromnibus spending bill passes over objection of liberal lights Warren, Pelosi. * See also: National Democrats consistently use liberal DC policies as bartering chips in federal disputes with Republicans. * Nurse
* Psychologists who developed the CIA's torture methods based their work on a study of inducing helplessness in dogs. * Navy debuts laser on Persian Gulf ship, too lethal to be used on humans. * US government infiltrates Cuba's hip-hop scene to turn rappers against their government. * Detroit'
It's the most wonderful time of year, but for atheists and agnostics, it means something altogether different. We asked a group of non-believers to tell us how they’re spending their secular holiday seasons.
* Terrific, terrifying interactive guide to 20 key findings learned from the Senate's torture report. * CIA's torture methods found to be unreliable and inefficient, compared to other methods of obtaining information. * Former Polish president reverses denials, says the country agreed to secret prisons but not torture. * George
Twice the official portraitist of George W. Bush, painter Robert Anderson explains what it’s like to build a relationship with a president, separate the man from the legacy, and struggle with his smirk.
* Marines placed on high alert, anticipating a backlash from today's Senate torture report on the Bush era. * Bush, former CIA officials condemn the torture report. * Related: The report is too little, too late for Obama's record; key aides muddled the approach from the get-go. * ACLU director:
Paintings made from commercial cassette tape can’t help but embrace a sense of decay that’s inherent to the material.
Here’s your chance to nominate your favorite 2014 novel for consideration as a tournament contender—as well as apply to be our 2015 ToB reader judge. One vote and/or entry per person. Deadline for both is midnight Eastern Time this Friday, Dec. 12, 2014. Thanks! Loading...Loading...
* Republican attorneys general in at least a dozen states form secret alliance with Big Energy to fight environmental regulations. * The strange thing about Tony Blair's Christmas card is how the teeth seem to follow you round the room. * Nations track their citizens with third-party surveillance tools, to the
* Loretta Lynch to lead inquiry into Eric Garner's death while Republican Senators vet her for attorney general. * Two weeks after the death of Tamir Rice, Justice Department finds pattern of excessive force by Cleveland Police. * De Blasio announces three-day retraining course for 22,000 New York City cops.
Writers who haven’t quit their day jobs, who cram in the writing hours around full-time work, discuss juggling office life, family, and creativity.
* Records of deaths by officers from local police departments are routinely higher than those reported by the FBI. * Following the decision not to indict, Eric Holder announces federal investigation into Eric Garner's chokehold death. * Man who shot the Eric Garner video claims police have been harassing him ever
* Contrary to popular belief, the US divorce rate has been declining over the last 20 years. * A poor Moroccan kid in France is much more likely to move into the middle class than a child born into a poor family in Mississippi. * Britons joining Amazon Anonymous— pledging to enjoy an
Board games are a gift that keeps on giving—the best of the bunch provide hours of fun for years on end. But when a new crop of great games arrives every year, how can you choose? This is how.
Consider the Delta smelt: an old fish in California, endemic to the upper Sacramento-San Joaquin Estuary, now caught between its home and thousands of drought-stricken acres.
* Obama announces federal funding for police body cameras and tighter guidelines on military weapons for law enforcement. * Yesterday thousands joined #HandsUpWalkOut to mark the hour Michael Brown was murdered. * Evidence ISIS has peaked: new losses in battles accompany dissension and infighting among the group's various factions. * Dr. Nadeem
Portraits of a queer community in South India treat gender, biology, art, and family with emotional nuance—no exoticism in sight.
* Pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong enter their third month, and clashes with police are becoming more violent. * Online and in-store purchases over Thanksgiving dropped 11%—Americans could be waiting to spend today, or not at all. * On Black Friday, capitalism cannibalizes culture. * China may miss its economic growth target for
* Nights of protests over Ferguson continue around the country, even overseas. * Toobin: Prosecutor McCulloch gave Wilson’s case special treatment, which summarizes the real shame of his approach. * Ferguson prosecutor inveighs against the Twitterverse. * This is America: You're supposed to play by the broken rules until you can
* How Darren Wilson avoided indictment: The struggle with Michael Brown shifted between homicide and self defense. * Examine for yourself the evidence available to the grand jury in Ferguson. * A point-by-point explanation of how the law protects police officers who kill unarmed citizens. * Why Darren Wilson was never going to be
People living in countries that aren’t the US explain the meaning of Thanksgiving, from the splendor of “harvest day” to the tradition that is gun violence.
Incredible photographs from 10 years of documenting the quickly changing landscapes of the Arctic and Antarctic, where no two icebergs are alike.
* Unable to reach an agreement in Iran nuclear talks, negotiators push deadline to March 1, 2015. * US air strikes in Syria are encouraging anti-regime fighters to forge alliances with or even defect to ISIS. * After serving six years of a 19-year sentence, the Iranian blogger movement founder has been pardoned.
How to spend a holiday alone and not get lonely, with adventures in BBQ, books, rummage shops, and cabin porn.
* Darren Wilson decision could come today—law enforcement has 48 hours to prep before a public announcement. * After Obama's aggressive defense of immigrants, GOP must keep Latino electorate in mind—or risk losing the demographic. * Japan is in a depression, driven primarily by its quickly shrinking population. * Politicians
* Obama to protect up to four million undocumented immigrants from deportation. * Days ahead of the Miss World pageant, Honduras's contestant and her sister found murdered. * Three wounded by gunman at FSU in latest shooting at a US university. * UK denies visa to misogynist "pick-up artist." * Hunger
Over the next few decades, baby boomers will reinvent how America dies. That gives Generation X one last thing to roll its eyes about, as it follows a step behind.
Brief updates to news stories that have slipped off the front page. This week: Smoking lounges at Reynolds American, Hugh Hefner’s hibernation, and the financial disasters that are Olympic Games.
* Bill to force approval of the Keystone XL pipeline fails one vote short of Senate passage. * Senate fails to pass NSA restrictions—some felt reining in the program would undermine the case for eliminating it. * Counting members of Congress among its fans, Uber might be beyond the rules for good.
* Since the disappearance of 43 students in Mexico on Sept. 26, police have found many mass graves—but not the right one. * Tackling Obamacare's false narratives. * The US government will profit $5 billion from renewable energy loans, which include failures (Solyndra) and successes (Tesla). * India has little recourse
A marriage in the digital era begins with an invitation to listen to a record. Rediscovering vinyl, sonic memories, and the joy of sitting down to do one single thing.
A new book surveys the artistic career of Mark Mothersbaugh, from drawings that inspired DEVO to recent film scores.
* State Dept. shuts down entire unclassified email system in response to possible security hack. * Japan unexpectedly falls into recession as its GDP shrank in the third quarter—rather than grew, as predicted. * Corruption in the US military, where the low-paid manage large budgets, isn't so different from any
* As unmarked troops and tanks arrive in Ukraine, Moscow and Kiev trade accusations of breaking the ceasefire. * Increasingly advanced counter-surveillance helps ISIS leader elude US strike. * Obama's immigration overhaul could allow millions of currently undocumented adults to legally work and reside in the US. * As in many parts
* House and Senate to vote on Keystone XL pipeline, with pols on both sides lining up to endorse it. * The Valerie Jarrett profile everyone in DC is reading. * Doctors Without Borders to host experimental Ebola treatments in West Africa. * China fails to trumpet the big climate change deal, possibly because
* Today at 11 am ET, ESA mission control will webcast its attempt of the first-ever probe landing on a comet. * US and China—who together emit 40% of the world's greenhouse gases—make a deal to reduce carbon emissions. * Five banks, including Citigroup and JPMorgan, to pay $3.
* An estimated 120,000 Americans in prison are innocent, many thanks to the plea-bargain system. * FBI says rates of violent crime are lower than at any point since the '70s. * Firm that predicted the 2008 financial crisis sees 65% chance of recession in 2015. * In 2009, 42% of African-born
Whitney Bedford’s paintings of ships and shipwrecks, ocean ice and fireworks, are simultaneously hot and cold, catastrophic and serene. It’s a tension that makes for some very turbulent art.
* Protesters set Mexican President Nieto's palace on fire as anger over 43 missing students shows no sign of abating. * Unencrypted federal government websites providing AIDS-related resources have been leaking sensitive user information for years. * YouTube’s video blogging community...can sometimes enable an alarmingly specific type of predator.
A decade ago, and then again five years later, we gathered a set of music bloggers who pioneered online music discovery—often to the chagrin of record labels. Now we reconvene to discuss the current state of listening to and reading about music online.
* Homeland Security says malware sponsored by Russia has been inserted into critical US infrastructure. * Putin says there was nothing wrong with the Soviet Union's pact with Nazi Germany, which secretly carved up Poland * Synthetic drug Spice rips across Russia, spread by kids and anonymous networks. * A year after
* Republicans want to define themselves affirmatively rather than by opposition; they should look to Friedrich Hayek. * Related: Birds found using human musical scales for the first time. * State judge overturns Missouri's constitutional ban on gay marriage. * Beheadings, massacres, and wholesale killings aren't limited to Islamic State
* Yesterday's GOP victory began months ago, when Republicans realized they had to quell the extremism within their party. * How the GOP did it. * The Senate now has enough votes to approve the Keystone XL pipeline. * Penal reform passes in California, downgrading some nonviolent felonies to misdemeanors, and potentially
In the city of Irvine, in the county of Orange, in the state of California during a season of sports, sometimes America reaches maximum volume.
Orangutans are some of humans’ closest relatives, genetically. They also rarely exhibit aggression, despite how we've abused them. One is different.
* Winning the Senate might be GOP's worst nightmare: pressures of governing could tear obstructionist element asunder. * Non-Republicans will be watching elections across the country for polling place irregularities—i.e., voter ID problems. * See also: A reading of US newspaper opinion sections shows the misinformation at the heart
Popular notions of the Great American Desert were of a land barren and uninhabitable. But away from the frills of modern life, photographer Robin Mellor finds answers when he asks his subjects, “What’s the meaning of life?”
* Latest UN climate change report predicts if emissions ceased, climate change effects will "continue for centuries." * Why scientists know humans cause climate change: The rate carbon dioxide absorbs heat doesn't match our temperature increase. * Cory Gardner might win Colorado by embracing birth control, college loans, and
It's time once again for our annual Halloween ritual, where we dust off a classic urban legend and reanimate it with a few new endings.
* Police find accused sniper Eric Frein in a Poconos airplane hangar after a 48-day manhunt. * With Frein captured, Halloween officially resumes in Barrett Township. * Ebola threatens to derail the legacy of Liberia's Sirleaf, Nobel Peace Prize winner and the first woman elected president of an African country. * Chevy
* In the past five years, since the financial crisis, the world's number of billionaires has more than doubled. * Goldberg: Netanyahu's "chickenshit" behavior undermines US-Israel alignment at the highest levels. * Until mid-century, hundreds of thousands of Swiss kids were taken from home and forced to
More than 200 letters to the editor, op-eds, and editorials from newspapers across the US reveal a country divided on who should be allowed to vote.
* Unmanned rocket explodes over Virginia in first accident since NASA began outsourcing to private contractors. * Stunning highlights from the 45,000 photos astronaut Chris Hadfield took while on the International Space Station. * The FBI created a fake online news story in a Seattle newspaper to hack a suspect in 2007.
Media depictions of trans culture seem more prevalent than ever, but off-key representations sensationalize and injure their subjects. It’s time to change that. Five transgender people discuss how.
* In a rare, school-specific survey, 17% of female MIT students and 5% of male students report being sexually assaulted. * Ebola vaccines must be tested, but administering frontline workers a placebo could be unethical. * In distancing themselves from an unpopular president, midterm candidates have succeeded only in disowning their own legacy.
* For the first time in the history of independent Ukraine, the pro-Russian Communist Party failed to win the votes needed to enter parliament. * Latin America has the highest concentration of compulsory-voting states—a policy suppressed elsewhere for fear of union power. * Following controversial Ebola quarantine of health worker in New
Portraits of the hustlers, businesswomen, singers, and teachers who were regulars at one of Manhattan’s most notorious dives.
* New York City has an Ebola patient; officials tracing every contact he made, including while bowling in Williamsburg. * Health workers in Texas use Tabasco during training for its tingling properties, to say if they've been contaminated. * Confessions of an Ebola thrillist. * Some US hospitals considering whether to withhold
The Bard’s most famous sonnet very nearly wasn’t a Shakespearean sonnet. Rejected pairings of content and form, from rondelet to an acrostic hiding his name.
* Shooter in Ottawa kills a soldier in what the PM calls a "terrorist" act—the suspect was recently designated a "high-risk traveler." * Canada's CBC News covered the shootings in a way US news no longer can: with respect and care for the facts. * Mexican
NFL star Randy Moss is now a high school coach. A Vikings fan explains how watching one childhood hero move on with his life helps him say goodbye to another.
* ISIS claims to have received a US weapons drop meant for Kurdish fighters. * Reports indicate ISIS struggles to meet basic needs of residents, who are kept in line by fear of reprisals. * Political scientists fail to understand why countries sign human rights treaties they have no intention of following. * After
Updates to news stories that have slipped off the front page. This week: male birth control, Sarah Palin, hydraulic fracking, the Beatles, and more.
* Ebola would be more dangerous if it were less deadly—it kills its host too quickly to be effectively contagious. * "Nurse Being Treated for Ebola Impressed With Health Workers' New Gear." * Putin's land grab may be part of his vision of Novorossiya, a new Russia
* Officials declare dozens of people who had contact with Thomas Eric Duncan are now no longer at risk of Ebola. * High school dropouts with wealthy backgrounds tend to earn as much as college grads with poorer backgrounds. * Many, if not most, individual American households possess next to nothing. * PBS debuts
An artist’s personal issues become manifest through dozens of identically dressed little men.
* Obama possibly to name a "czar" to manage the government’s response to Ebola, which has so far infected three people in the US. * Dallas worker who handled the Ebola patient's lab samples is on a Caribbean cruise—now quarantined and not showing any signs. * Infectious
What I end up saying when I try to explain to people, and myself, why I bought a vacation house in Detroit.
* Dallas County Commissioners set to declare a "state of disaster" after two cases of Ebola. * America's most dire threat at present is a "hugely overhyped fear" of Ebola and the Islamic State. * ISIS loots important historical sites, including some from the Bronze Age, in
* World Health Organization warns that West Africa could see 10,000 Ebola cases per week by the end of the year. * Second health care worker in Texas has Ebola; nurses accuse hospital of sloppy protocols. * Spain has the world's highest concentration of elevators, thanks to the Spanish Civil
Indian culture is under siege by Westerners enamored with yoga, authenticity, and convenience. The dosa—a beloved, inconvenient tradition—could be next to fall.
The Jazz Age blasts into orbit, adding oxygen parties and mighty pincers to the rise-and-fall decadence of the intergalactic one percent.
* How Ebola spreads: It's droplet-borne, not airborne, so it's not easy—but not especially hard—to get. * NBC medical correspondent sneaks out of Ebola quarantine to get restaurant takeout in New Jersey. * Nigeria's successful fight against Ebola is due to both medical infrastructure—and
A Seattle painter creates friendly portraits of volcanoes in part to mitigate fears of complete system failure.
* Hundreds of thousands have evacuated their homes, and Japan watches for flash floods and landslides as typhoon reaches land. * Authorities don't know why radiation levels in the water around Fukushima increased 10-fold after a weekend of typhoon-related rain. * In Hong Kong, hundreds of Anti-Occupy protestors descend upon the
* As hostilities break out between the countries, Pakistani teenager and Indian children's rights activist receive the Nobel peace prize. * Airline cabin cleaners strike at LaGuardia Wednesday night over fears about Ebola. * Following an ease on travel restrictions, more than 22,000 Cubans emigrated to the US in the
A man dies, leaving behind, among other things, a combination lock. Opening it may just prove the existence of the afterlife.
* St. Louis police officer shoots and kills teenager whom witnesses claim was unarmed. * There's little evidence airport fever screenings can prevent Ebola's spread—passengers may not show symptoms during travel. * Actually, America does negotiate with terrorists, and the FBI—or a proxy foreign government—will help
Life in a city, including its dangers, can be evaluated in a thousand ways. But dangerous and scary are different adjectives, and different measurements. Especially after a man appears below your stairs.
* Hourly Amazon workers, who spend up to 25 unpaid minutes being screened for stolen goods—head to the Supreme Court. * Walmart cuts benefits for its 30,000 part-time employees—and didn't even blame Obamacare. * Following Monday's Supreme Court ruling, Ninth Circuit strikes down gay marriage bans—
* Soldier from Wisconsin explains why (anger) and how (plane ticket) he joined Kurdish fighters in Syria to battle ISIS. * Sketches from Raqqa, Syria, a city that's completely under ISIS control. * Obama's "latte salute" notwithstanding, the pejorative term "latte liberal" has lost its
A week’s worth of street photographs and interviews from the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong—that most civil of civil disobedience movements.
* Roberts Supreme Court faces history-making docket. * California ballot initiative could overturn the state's mandatory sentencing laws, the harshest in the country. * From December 2013 to today, a timeline of Ebola's spread throughout West Africa. * Like Thomas Eric Duncan in Dallas, nine others who came in contact
* Dallas Ebola cleanup hampered due to the difficulty in finding people to clean up a contaminated apartment. * Freelance NBC cameraman in Liberia tests positive for Ebola. * Former Chicago police commander, jailed for perjury over torturing 118 black men, released after four years. * On the Secret Service’s failures. * Most "
* Ebola races across Sierra Leone, where the government appears to seriously undercount victims. * Man diagnosed with Ebola in Dallas visited the ER last week, only to be sent home. * America's secret weapon against Ebola: Obamacare. * Grand jury convened over Ferguson investigated for misconduct following tweets of "leakage.
At 36, a schoolteacher learns how to ride a bicycle from his former student, who’s still struggling to succeed in school programs that value order above all else.
* Ebola containment in Nigeria and Senegal appears successful; no new cases have been reported in Nigeria since Aug. 31. * Elon Musk on Mars colonization: "to safeguard the existence of humanity in the event that something catastrophic were to happen." * Life in Liberia, before and after the Ebola outbreak,
Continuing our series where we ask novelists to write restaurant reviews that are absolutely not restaurant reviews, the author of the Southern Reach trilogy meets his match in a Dublin brie.
The bread and butter of online journalism, epitomized by lists like “The 25 Most Kimye Things That Have Ever Happened,” got its start in a 19th-century column in the New York Times.
* US bankruptcy judge has allowed Detroit to continue shutting off water for some of its residents. * Although the Sixth Amendment guarantees "the right to a speedy and public trial," in the Bronx the concept of speedy justice barely exists. * Seventy-five percent of all worldwide migrant deaths in the
A new book captures Chicago’s financial markets at a moment when there are no offers for trades—any trading company’s horror vacui.
* Thousands of pro-democracy protesters take to Hong Kong's streets, leading the city to deploy tear gas for the first time in years. * What Hong Kong's protests and Beijing's response share: They could force the public to choose whether to accept China's influence.
* FBI identifies ISIS militant in beheading videos of James Foley and Steven J. Sotloff. * In addition to attacks in Iraq and Syria, the US should go after the Islamic State's true safe haven: social media. * ISIS tortures and executes Iraqi women's rights lawyer, Sameera Salih Ali
* In Syria, a big risk remains that Assad will benefit the most from the American-led air campaign. * Related: Syrian perspectives on ISIS and the US intervention. * Obama's shift toward realpolitik can be traced in the evolution of his rhetoric. * Cameron to apologize to the Queen for saying she
Many people in the news are saying sorry, albeit through gritted teeth. Why apologies are essential—especially the non-apology apology—to navigating our modern world.
* Officials say that despite claims of a broad coalition, the US is carrying out the vast majority of strikes against ISIS. * The US has now bombed both sides in Syria's civil war, threatening mission creep and a third front in its campaign in the region. * Western nations should
A writer becomes a carrier for the United States Postal Service out of a long-held love for the mail. What she discovers are screams, threats, lies, labor violations, and dog attacks.
* China and India—two of the top three carbon dioxide emitters—won't attend this week's UN climate change summit. * The case for a global carbon tax comes down to redistribution of carbon wealth. * Following Scotland's vote against secession, other regions around the world that
* Climate change protest attended by 400,000 in New York City over the weekend. * Fleeing the Islamic State, 100,000 Syrians have crossed into Turkey since last Thursday. * Authorities find 130 new cases of Ebola during a "successful" lockdown of Sierra Leone. * Under pressure from the US, Mexico
Alison Blickle’s paintings—full of ceremony, mysticism, and sisterhood—remain electric with desire, even when the object of desire is a mystery.
* Scotland votes to remain part of the United Kingdom—just the beginning of a long constitutional wrangle. * Britains pollsters, showing volatility, would be wise to learn from prediction markets, i.e., bookies. * Irish economy grows at its fastest rate in seven years, with the government hoping to avoid "the
* Live blog of voting results as Scotland completes its day of voting 'yes' or 'no' to independence. * Wording of the Scottish referendum was revised to emphasize independence, a gain, rather than severance, a loss. * Headlines to anticipate should Scotland secede. * In Africa, Scottish independence is a
Brief updates to news stories that have slipped off the front page. This week: schoolgirls in Nigeria, Malaysian Airlines Flight 370, Josh Hartnett's career, and more.
* The US government threatened to prosecute James Foley's family if they attempted to negotiate with ISIS. * Federal agents are saving America $1 billion annually by eradicating cattle ticks, a deadly pest that can kill a cow in a week. * Utah initiative that gives the chronically homeless housing, regardless
How a book, booze, and a guilty hangover brought an admittedly non-athletic man to the starting line, and what happened next.
* US military to boost Ebola efforts by sending as many as 3,000 to West Africa and constructing 17 treatment centers in Liberia. * First responders in Aleppo. * The Indian state of Chhattisgarh has at least 300 child police officers, some as young as five. * The FBI's controversial new
* Nearly 70% of Americans doubt that the US will effectively defeat ISIS. * Syrians in Jordanian refugee camps have been pushing daughters to marry at younger ages, ostensibly to protect them. * Ten years after Russian forces' botched hostage rescue at a school left hundreds dead, an official investigation has yet
Mid-century magazine clippings find new life in collages that are just the right amount of weird and clever.
* Ceasefire in eastern Ukraine is mostly holding, with prisoners being exchanged—a short-term victory for Russia. * The fact that Russian soldiers have died in a war in which they officially have no involvement is a problem in Russia. * Related: Keith Gessen reports from Donetsk. * With less than a week before
* The Islamic State raises most of its money domestically in Iraq and Syria by smuggling oil. * Iran reminds its citizens that the Islamic State, like Al Qaeda and the Taliban, was devised by the CIA as a counterweight to Iran. * Things found on an Islamic State laptop: Celine Dion and
A blind woman and her guide dog share a symbiosis that can become a spiritual bond for both.
* Obama to explain tonight his action plan against ISIS, likely to include more wide-ranging air strikes. * America spends $33 billion more on defense than the eight top spenders combined. * The moment a man enlists in the US armed forces, his chances of being sexually assaulted increase by a factor of
A generation of women read the “Harry Potter” series as teens, “Twilight” in college, and “Fifty Shades of Grey” in their twenties. What is the cumulative effect?
* America's missile shield appears doomed. * The world is under-reacting to Ebola—WHO says it will take a "massive" response to stop the crisis within nine months. * Eating junk food creates fewer greenhouse gases than a healthy diet—but removing meat is best of all. * Louisiana'
New clothes, AP classes, middle-aged angst. A New York City mom reflects on being pulverized by the first day of school.
* The production values of ISIS beheading videos—good cameras, lapel mics—underscore the group's carefully crafted message. * A group of young women recruit for ISIS on Twitter, posting about marrying jihadis and raising more. * A new Ebola vaccine shows a 100% success rate in monkey trials—researchers will
* Despite talks about a peace plan, fighting continues between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russia rebels. * Former Virginia governor and wife convicted on 11 counts of bribery, conspiracy, and extortion. * Islands around the Caribbean seek to end the jury system, often because enough good jurors can't be found. * Boy in
All the magic of the Mojave Desert, or the Amazon rainforest, can be found in the salt marshes of New Jersey.
* In a video address, ISIS threatens Putin and Russia with war in the North Caucasus. * Abbas reportedly told Netanyahu he'd cede control of the West Bank to Israel if current border talks fail. * Whites support tougher criminal laws at least partly because they overestimate black and Hispanic crime
The rear ends of black women appear to be pop culture’s current favorite commodity. But Nicki Minaj’s new video is anything but so simple.
* On the senselessness of ISIS executions. * Meant to mark the end of combat in Afghanistan, NATO's summit has new relevance in the midst of Russian aggression. * The Ebola outbreak has infected more than 3,000. * A Columbia student will carry around her dorm mattress until her rapist leaves
Copper deer, bears with cabinet legs, and other absurdities to be found in the future wild.
* Before Labor Day was all beach selfies and the death of white jeans, it was about the social advancement of common people. * Chinese government creates full-court anti-Japan press, going so far as to create angry national holidays. * Employing history of early Islam and the original caliphs, Islamic State thrills denizens
* Happy Labor Day: Hourly wages have flatlined over the past five years. * Sweden becomes the first Nordic country with a case of suspected Ebola—UPDATE: It's been ruled out. * About half of the Syrian population has been displaced by the nation's civil war. * South Africa attempts
* Obama takes flak for wearing a tan suit, but taupe need not be sad, nay can be sexy, shows Ryan Gosling. * The recent, relentless waves of bad news lead people to overestimate the world’s awfulness. * Russian bank offers two-hour cat loans to customers taking out a mortgage. * Tennessee cop
* Pro-Israel group may be losing support in Congress. * Interviews and satellite imagery show the Yazidi religious minority in Iraq is still stranded on a mountain. * The Islamic State appears committed to the destruction of cultural heritage, archaeological finds, and, in fact, Aramaic. * Since 1997, 1,400 girls were sexually exploited
* Ceasefire appears to hold in Israel and Hamas's war of attritition—"an opportunity, not a certainty." * Russia and Ukraine to restart stalled gas talks, pleasing Europeans. * Endgame for Putin. * Analysis of Mein Kampf reviewers on Amazon finds many admirers with praise for Hitler. * Study finds users
* As a second strain of ebola breaks out, Japan announces it has an experimental flu drug that could treat Ebola. * After receiving ZMapp treatment and showing signs of recovery, a Liberian doctor dies of Ebola. * Ferguson's largely young, black, male protesters. * Following two high-profile tragedies, many Malaysia Airlines
* Excellent Nathan Thrall analysis of how Israel and Hamas reached their current, undesired war. * Venezuela soon to begin fingerprinting customers at grocery stores. * Four men develop a nail polish to detect date-rape drugs. * Catalog of weapons used against Ferguson protestors. * Black Ferguson experiences post-Michael Brown political awakening. * Since 1970, the
* Russia rolls back some of its self-imposed bans on Western food—including vitamins, supplements, and lactose-free dairy products. * Because of Missouri's self-defense laws, convicting Darren Wilson is an unlikely outcome. * The Royal Canadian Mounted Police acquires military-grade vehicles, assures citizens they're only for emergencies. * Congressional staffer
Only the truly trained can accurately describe how despair sounds without a noise filter. A sound technician finishes his horror movie script.
* Surowiecki: "The lack of an Ebola treatment is disturbing. But, given the way drug development is funded, it's also predictable." * How America's no-ransom policy contributed to James Foley's death, and why a new policy could be in order. * Related: Al Qaeda received
* American journalist James Foley, kidnapped in Syria in 2012, beheaded on camera by the Islamic State. * See also: The story of Foley’s kidnapping along with Austin Bennett Tice. * The Islamic State are "extreme sadists with a conventional army and nation-building aspirations." * LAPD cop asks that we extend
* Ferguson PD—95% white in a city that's two-thirds black—needs more black officers and fewer heavy weapons. * Ta-Nehisi Coates on America's history of total police control over black bodies. * No longer Invisible Man: Jordan Casteel's paintings of black men. * UV light reveals otherwise
Nobody stands between one cyclist and her cheese on a vegetable-fueled bike tour through Eastern Europe.
The Morning News is seeking Fall/Winter editorial fellows. As a fellow you’ll work closely with the founding editors to learn the ins and outs of an online magazine. You will also contribute to the magazine’s daily maintenance, find new writers, and have the opportunity to pick up
Portraits of black men that bring attention to the unique humanity of each individual.
* Following Sunday's violence between police and protestors in Ferguson, Missouri governor calls in the National Guard. * Last night, Ferguson police ordered the media to "get the fuck out of here," and threatened to shoot them. * Ferguson's divisions, like those of Missouri, began during the
* "Hands Up, Don't Shoot" rallies took place in 90+ cities last night over the shooting of Missouri's Michael Brown. * Transcript of Michael Brown's friend recounting what happened when the teen was killed. * Related: Reddit's live updates of police-scanner reports and
* Today’s crossword puzzles riddled with sexism, and the gender gap in crossword creators is growing. * Tea Party challengers in the south resemble nothing more than the racist, fiery populists of recent history. * In 2013, black residents were over 13 times more likely to get arrested in Ferguson, Mo. * Checking
Stranded on a desert island, a panel of self-help authors must rely on their wits and catchphrases to survive.
* The Israel-Hamas ceasefire ends this afternoon, and neither side appears ready to end their military campaigns. * For a few hours yesterday, the FAA restricted air travel above Ferguson, Mo., following the riots over Michael Brown's death. * Following the chokehold homicide of Eric Garner, NYPD is urged to mandate
After visiting more than 2,000 independent bookstores—at least virtually—the Amazon annihilation, Orwell misquotes and all, doesn't seem quite so inescapable.
* Supplies of the experimental US ebola drug ZMapp are depleted after being donated to an unnamed West African country. * An algorithm predicted the ebola outbreak, nine days before the WHO issued its first statement on the epidemic. * Collection of Robin Williams's greatest movie scenes. * Robin Williams's
Mainstream country music is dominated by bros singing about girls in cutoffs and drinking tequila. But some female country artists are ready to exchange fire.
* The Islamic State begins ethnically cleansing Iraq's Yazidi religious minority. * Primer on the Yazidis, who many Muslims consider devil worshippers. * The current Ebola outbreak has been traced to a two-year-old boy in Guinea. * Medical examiner rules last week's death of James Brady—who was shot 33
In elaborate collages and installations, paper can generate elements that are capable of building new worlds.
* At the end of a three-day truce in Gaza, Israel resumes airstrikes following Palestinian rocket attacks. * Russia announces one-year ban on all meat, fruit, and vegetables from the US, EU, Canada, Australia, and Norway. * Russia, and the world, without Putin. * Dispatch from VICE reporter embedded with ISIS. * Three weeks later,
* Minority Yazidi Iraqis are dying of thirst, stranded on a mountaintop. * Related: the amount of ISIS-controlled land in Iraq and Syria is now bigger than England. * Profile of Moner Mohammad Abusalha, first American suicide bomber in Syria. * Over two million people still pay monthly for access to AOL. * The average
* Hamas as a political actor. * A primer on Mohammed Deif, the commander of Hamas's military wing. * Britain's Foreign Office minister resigns, protesting government silence on Gaza violence, and posts her resignation letter on Twitter. * Young people brought into the US illegally by their parents confront the
Susanna Bluhm’s paintings of Yosemite and other locales are full of place and history—and, as she tells us, plenty of sex and weather, too.
* Up to this point the experimental drug that appears to have saved an American ebola patient had only been tested on monkeys. * San Diego pharma company that produces the experimental ebola treatment says it's increasing production. * The paranoid hypochondriac's guide to the ebola outbreak. * Jimmy Carter:
* Israel bombards the Gaza town of Rafah, killing 100 people in 24 hours. * Israel declares a seven-hour ceasefire—a "humanitarian window"—for most of Gaza. * How the ICC can determine war crimes. * The conflict may be deescalating: Israel is pulling troops out of Gaza and stationing some troops
Talking about language is already tough. Try discussing a brand new language via Skype with two hearing linguists, plus another via text, who happens to be deaf, and see what you learn.
* Aspiring British parliamentarians discouraged by masters in angelic reiki. * India’s Parliament hiring men with a gift for mimicry to frighten away monkeys. * Humans have kept elephants longer than we’ve domesticated chickens—yet Behemoth's crying comes as a shock. * "Cafe Putin" to open next week,
Humans have kept elephants for thousands of years, longer than we've domesticated chickens. Yet the great animals’ capacity to cry for freedom comes as a shock.
* Federal authorities at US international airports are watching for passengers displaying Ebola symptoms. * UN officials accuse Israel of serious international rights violations after it bombed a UN-designated shelter. * In an interview with a Guardian reporter, Ukrainian rebel commander nicknamed "the Demon" threatens to kill him. * The housing crisis
* Bloomberg correspondent captured by Ukrainian rebels in Donetsk. * Journalists in Russia's Far East nominate Putin for "Hero of Russia" title for his annexation of Crimea. * The misogyny within Israel's Gaza attacks: rape threats and slut-shaming Palestine supporters. * Two Austin women go topless to draw
Between love and tacos, sometimes it's better to choose tacos. Our series continues where we ask novelists to dine out, then write us something that 1) is a restaurant review; 2) is not a restaurant review.
* During an authorized protest, ISIS marches in the Hague, calling for “Death to the Jews.” * In the downing of flight MH17, the share of the Netherlands’ population killed was greater than America’s loss in 9/11. * Germany, Britain, France, Italy, and the US agree on stiffer sanctions against Putin
Eve becomes a woman of many lives, whether trying her first cigarette or weeping in a wedding dress.
* During an uncertain Israeli-Palestinian ceasefire, Israeli official says the IDF is only attacking if fired upon. * Texan ranchers near the Mexican border band together to track down illegal immigrants and send them back. * Long after the demise of the sanitarium, doctors have begun prescribing nature walks. * First large-scale study on
* Fossils from a newly discovered dinosaur species suggest nearly all dinosaurs were feathered. * Walmart ice-cream sandwiches don't melt in the sun because they're full of so much gum. * Just before the troops went into Gaza, I went to a protest in Jerusalem. I went because I
* US-backed Afghan militias murder and rape their way through Afghanistan. * Kerry says he doesn't want to return home without securing a ceasefire. * America lifts ban on flights to Israel. * By "mowing the grass," Israel hopes to exhaust Hamas through attrition, with modest gains and acceptable casualty
A Marxist upbringing, graduating into a recession, and a lineage of missed opportunities make a brutal combination.
* Classified images support the likelihood a surface-to-air missile fired from rebel-held Ukraine brought down MH17. * Today two Ukrainian fighter jets were shot down by pro-Russia forces in eastern Ukraine. * One child has been killed in Gaza every hour for the past two days. * Palestinder publishes screenshots of how the Israeli-Palestinian
London traffic, bladder control, and a runaway Cordelia challenge a mostly wool production of Shakespeare’s “King Lear.”
* With Israel and Hamas each dedicated to the other's destruction, a two-state solution is very far away. * Three takeaways from the demise of Kerry’s attempt to broker an agreement between Israel and the PA. * Hamas tells the Palestinians a simple truth: freedom comes at the cost of
Three near-drownings elucidate the wisdom of a 17th-century guide to swimming safety and technique.
* Amid shelling and carnage in Ukraine, Dutch forensics experts reach the MH17 passengers' remains. * Malaysia Airlines' flight path was considered safe and legal and was well-traversed by other airlines earlier that week. * Russian media ambushes accusations its missile downed MH17, offers a platform for experts' conspiracy theories.
Photographer Catherine Leutenegger chronicles the decline of the Eastman Kodak Corporation and the city built by Big Yellow.
* Washington believes Moscow's behind the downing of a plane over eastern Ukraine; EU powers say wait and see. * Ukraine releases audio from what it says are phone calls between rebels and Russian officers. * Palestinians killed since start of invasion now stands at 28, with some 150 targets hit
In search of a remedy for MS, a journey out of the gridlock of America’s health system and into the jungles of Belize, where medicine men promise cures for everything that ails you.
* Federal judge rules that California’s death penalty violates the constitution’s ban on cruel and unusual punishment. * Almond milk is not only bad for California's drought; it's a waste of precious almonds. * Profile data analyzed from America’s most popular hate website. * Charles Darwin’s
Even a fake history of blogging—going back to the Old Internet, when HTML templates were so raw—offers insight into how we reached today's web and survived comments.
* After 350 posts and 40,000 deaths, a Times blogger reflects on what she learned cataloging American gun violence. * A map of gun incidents in New York City thus far in 2014 correlates with the city's race and class lines. * An exposé of the NYPD's "
* Israel accepts Egyptian-brokered proposal for an immediate end to fighting in the Gaza Strip. * Germany splits up sausage cartel for fixing wurst prices as far back as 2003. * Pack of legal joints to more likely cost 50 cents than $50, but that's assuming a "Smoke Local"
After moving from a state that recognizes same-sex marriage to one that doesn’t, a couple’s marriage becomes a partnership, and they are suddenly forced into new roles.
A young abstract painter from San Francisco explains why Instagram is the best art critic of all.
* One year from today, mankind will make its first contact with Pluto via a spacecraft the size of a baby grand piano. * America's great pot experiment: Legalization in certain states has been more treacherous than others, and could end after Obama. * Berkeley City Council votes to give free
* Interviews with the border children. * The story of the largest slave auction in America, in Georgia on March 2-3, 1859, known as the Weeping Time. * How Patti Hammond Shaw, who was jailed with men who allegedly abused her, changed how police treat transgender people. * Laverne Cox is nominated for an
A new series where we ask a novelist to eat in a restaurant, then write us something that meets two criteria: 1) it is a restaurant review; 2) it is not a restaurant review.
* Three years ago the Arab Spring brought hope, now replaced by ruin—outsiders, no matter their intention, can't restore that future. * Female Syrian refugees face constant sexual harassment. * Dubai has unveiled its first state-sponsored construction project since the pre-crash bubble: an indoor city with hotels, shops, and trams.
Two dozen people—a banker, a sex worker, a pastor, “the World’s First Publicly Traded Person”—tell us the best way to invest a single dollar.
* Israel calls up reservists to replace those on duty in the West Bank, to free them for a possible ground invasion of Gaza. * Hamas fires long-range missiles into Israel, with dozens more in store. * San Francisco hates techies, techies hate being despised, and the war rages on between public process
* To celebrate its 125th anniversary, the Wall Street Journal shows how today's team would cover events of 1889. * See also: History of the paper's design. * BBC Trust orders its producers to stop adding "false balance" when reporting on climate change. * London's Oxford
When a genetic disease looms, we’re more like our parents than we’d like to believe—and when we become parents, that fear only grows.
* Over 60 women and girls escape from Boko Haram in Nigeria; more than 200 girls remain kidnapped. * Russia’s minister of culture urges Russians to shun other languages and study Russian more. * Some Russians experience buyers’ remorse after being asked to personally subsidize Crimea. * Frozen soundtrack is on course to
The business and madness of modern sports appear, through subtle augmentation, in classics of American art.
Outsider artists draw outsider patrons, some who smell like horses. Not even the art gallery world’s aura of intimidation will keep them away.
* Blaming Iran for financing a bus bombing that killed his daughter, a New Jersey father helped uncover an international terror banking scheme. * The behind-the-scenes story of how a hacker uncovers Russia's secret money transfers to Syria's government. * Syrian TV reports on the assassination of Archduke Franz
* Blackwater’s Iraq ops chief threatened to kill a State Dept. official in charge of investigating the heavily criticized security provider. * Sunni group leading insurgency in Iraq declares a new caliphate stretching from Iraq's Diyala province to Syria's Aleppo. * Disturbing new footage shows the violence that
Paintings of New York from the perspective of a plane flying at 1,200 feet, along the Hudson River.
* White House asks Congress for $500m to train and equip "moderate" Syrian rebels. * Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova tiptoe away from Russia with new EU pact. * Henry Louis Gates on black slave owners—a variety of black "masters," with a variety of motivations. * Inside a physician-assisted suicide. * Much
* Detroit water authority turns off water at 3,000 households; residents ask the UN to intervene. * The traditional medicines of human rights activism—exposés, media attention, and pressure...are falling short. * More than 100 cities and counties have refused to honor the ICE's requests to detain undocumented immigrants.
Living out of a van, without an address to pin you down, can be blissful and carefree, and occasionally miserable. But the same goes for love.
* Many Turks now blame the Turkish government for enabling the rise of ISIS and other extremists in Syria. * British Airways sued by man who was sent to Grenada, not Granada—and it's happened before. * None of the jobs on Forbes' list of "best 12 jobs for
The Thirteenth Amendment passed 150 years ago, abolishing slavery. Today, little of the Underground Railroad still remains. A painter hits the road to discover what’s intact.
* Tens of thousands of Iraqis form military ¨Peace Brigades¨ to assist the government. * Map of the US shows where guns outnumber libraries and museums. * See also: Profile of the first blind man to acquire a concealed-carry permit. * Twenty emergency responders required to extract an American foreign-exchange student from a stone
Tobacco farmers, churchgoers, and signs of rapid growth crop up like kudzu along North Carolina’s Highway 15-501, aka Tobacco Road.
* A quarter of India's land is turning to desert, threatening food security in the world's second most populous country. * Related: If there were a World Cup for climate change diversion, Switzerland would win. * The shared history of soccer, rugby, and football is why Americans differ in
* The Social Security Administration and Veterans Affairs are taking steps to provide some recognition of same-sex couples. * South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has declined to veto penalties for college assigning "gay-themed" books in the 2014 state budget. * Concerned for female students' future in the workplace, UK principal
* Ukrainian troops and pro-Russian separatists "locked in fierce fighting" in the east of Ukraine. * Before Cheney's allowed to criticize Obama for blunders in Iraq, a preface is due to explain his contribution. * See also: Celebrity confessions strung together to create an Übersinner. * Jamelle Bouie on the
Drawing inspiration from those who went before, and those still to come, in the waitress wars.
Reddit's “Ask Me Anything” interviews—edited for the seven deadly sins—provide an Idolatry of Self so big, it produces Zen koans.
* Iraqi Kurds, who have long wanted their own state, may finally have their chance as Iraq tears itself apart. * Late historian Cherie Woodworth tackles the question of Yiddish’s origins. * If Scotland votes for its independence in an upcoming referendum, its best choice of currency would be Norway’s krone.
* While you weren't paying attention: Four Russians toilet-paper the US embassy in Moscow. * Primer on Russia's proxy war in Ukraine. * Somali-linked Islamist militants kill at least 15 in second night of attacks on Kenya's coast. * Austin is America's 10th-most segregated metro area
Portraits of scientists, explorers, and other “professional dreamers” who have found their way to the North Pole.
* Their only protection was a sheet, painted with the words “children, children, children,” that was taped around the minivan. * The crisis in Iraq has brought about unprecedented levels of post-1979 US-Iran cooperation. * Palestinian woman plants flowers in tear gas grenades. * On the life of Haruki Murakami. * Some pig: Heading to
* Sunni fighters captured two more Iraqi towns overnight in a "lightning sweep" towards Baghdad. * Sixty-five-year-old woman stayed in her house for two years because of the violence in Homs, Syria. * Newsweek journalist finds inanity in George Will's archive. * Brief history of the fiasco that is Entertainment
A court order is found buried in a desk. A private detective is hired. But tracking down a doppelgänger is not the same as confronting one.
* Mass shootings in the US aren't on the rise—media coverage of mass shootings is. * Last month, the Iraqi government fruitlessly asked US to airstrike militants. * Related: Dexter Filkins on Iraq. * After more than 50 years of boots-on-the-ground intervention, the US should reconsider its military-first status. * An Israeli
* To stock cheap shrimp at Walmart and Costco, Asian "ghost ships" use slave labor. * Why Cantor lost his primary to the Tea Party: Maybe immigration, likely his DC insider status, possibly Obama. * There have been at least 74 school shootings in the US since Sandy Hook. * You can
Highlights from a reading of 200-plus letters to the editor, from newspapers in all 50 states, to determine what Crazy America thinks about raising—or lowering—the minimum wage.
Here comes summer, when the yoke of responsibility loosens. We all have our past indiscretions, but they’re too sordid to sign our names to—so we’ve removed the names and rearranged the text to protect the guilty.
* Democrats say broad acceptance of the need to fight climate change makes a carbon plan a winning issue. * President Obama just did something he hasn’t done in years: speak frankly and passionately about his views on climate change. * More than one-quarter of Israelis want to get rid of the
* Armed gunmen storm Pakistan's busiest airport, throwing grenades and shooting government security forces. * Online bookseller for the Middle East to open a banned books section. * New season of Orange Is the New Black sparks "Humanity Is the New Black" campaign to improve conditions at the show&
Paul D’Amato’s portraits, collected in the masterful new book “We Shall,” represent 10 years of photographing the west side of Chicago.
* On the 60th anniversary of D-Day, photographs of sites then and now. * German exports rise, its industrial output increases, and its growth forecast gets a boost. * Many laundry-solving tech startups are, like many other tech startups, competitive, self-deluding, and douchey. * Inside the world of New York City's impoverished
* China bulldozes mountains to create new business zones, wreaking environmental havoc. * Related: By staying silent over Tiananmen Square, China has assured the event's place in history. * All but 60 of Israel’s 273 original collective farms have abandoned socialism to become serious businesses. * Britain's main streets
* The Hubble telescope has captured the most comprehensive image of the universe, and it looks like a jewel box. * Germany remains the most positively viewed country, while Russia trails Israel, Pakistan, Iran, and North Korea in negative perceptions. * Tiananmen Square through the years. * Some lucky government employees in Sweden are
* Seven weeks after the kidnapping, Nigerian police ban peaceful "Bring Back Our Girls" protests in the capital. * Astronomers discover two new exoplanets, raising new hopes in the search for extraterrestrial life. * Obama's decision to exchange five Guantànamo prisoners for Bowe Bergdahl marks slight progress in his
* Obama moves to cut carbon pollution from existing power plants by 30% by 2030. * Nearly 800 Iraqis were killed in May, making it 2014's deadliest month yet, reflecting a surge in sectarian violence. * Dozens arrested in China to keep from commemorating this week’s 25th anniversary of the
* BBC tracks public sentiment and key political events as Scotland prepares to vote on independence. * Mexican newspaper Más Por Más prints news stories on towels in bathrooms to drive traffic to its website. * St. Mary's Church found to be the most ambiguous term on Wikipedia, followed by Communist
Even someone who writes erotica for a living has to find ways to get through moments of shame.
* There was nothing in Rodger's background that would have prevented him from being able to buy a gun. * In the wake of the Santa Barbara shootings, women create a website aggregating articles showing what happens "When Women Refuse." * One reason men were surprised by the #YesAllWomen
* Following the Elliot Rodger shootings, American women organize "Yes All Women" movement to expose harassment and mistreatment. * Short French film reimagines life in a society dominated by women who act like contemporary men. * Customers at the 9/11 museum gift shop explain what their purchases mean to them.
Over the past decade, social media has made us all big communicators, but we’re giving off more noise than signals. An argument for the handwritten note.
Disney’s “Frozen” juggernaut has been criticized for “sexy walking.” But the roots of what’s wrong lie in Midwestern pageants, not hip-hop videos.
* Why US junk-food brands should stop targeting young people of color: disproportionate rates of diet-related disease. * Non-whites are more likely to breathe foul air than whites, even after correcting for income, according to a recent study. * A Syrian children's magazine publishes stories about "anger management, anxiety, sadness,
* Weeks after slaughtering hundreds and kidnapping more than 300 girls, Boko Haram receives UN sanctions. * Turkish women launch online campaign to shame men for hogging space on public transportation. * Violent, angry grandmothers defend Ukraine's pro-Russia breakaway Donestk People's Republic. * US military has troops on the ground,
* Friendship blooms on Twitter between the nationalist leaders of India and Japan ever since Modi won. * Anyone born in violation of China's one-child-per-couple policy does not exist legally. * See also: Ta-Nehisi Coates on the case for reparations to African-Americans. * Beth Israel gives patients access to therapists’ notes. * Good,
Years go by easier when there are 2,000 miles separating a father and son. Then an American flag turns up in your lap.
* Retired NFL players allege they were illegally administered dangerous narcotics to keep them playing through the pain. * Most of the world's newborn deaths...enter and leave the world without a piece of paper to record their existence. * How developmental disorganization—where organs and tissues evolve at different rates—
The instinct to applaud boot-strapping and the comeback kid is as American as apple pie. So why does schadenfreude make us feel so good?
Returning to America after five years in the Middle East calls for a no-sleep jaunt back to Beirut for drinking, partying, and tying up loose ends.
* Thailand’s Army declares martial law, but hasn't picked sides between the pro- and anti-government protesters. * Camille Lepage, inspiring 26-year-old French photojournalist, killed while covering the Central African Republic. * Everyone should have a museum dedicated to the worst day of their life and be forced to attend it
A redacted version of Mao Tse-tung’s “Little Red Book,” illustrated with photographs of contemporary China, becomes a story for modern times.
* Severe flooding in the Balkans has displaced at least 24,300 people and dislodged some of the 100,000 landmines in the region. * Eighty years after two scientists first theorized how light turns into matter, three physicists devise an experiment to prove it. * California has released thousands of Pakistani wasps
* The BJP, India's Hindu-nationalist party, looks to sweep the elections, making Narendra Modi the likely Prime Minister. * GOP gubernatorial primary debate in Idaho hijacked by unlikely candidates, including a biker with "a direct line to God." * After weeks of solitary confinement and police interrogations in the
Sinclair Lewis despised his hometown in Minnesota. It disliked him, too, especially after being lampooned in a bestselling novel that mocked the citizens for their small-town ways. These days, though, he's all they've got.
* The NSA reform bill only limits the surface of the agency's spying. * EU ruling gives people the right to ask Google to remove information about them. * Among those asking Google to remove links: a disgraced ex-politician, a convicted pedophile, a doctor with negative patient feedback. * FCC meets with
* Turkish mining disaster kills more than 200, with 200-plus others thought to be still underground. * US planes start flying missions to find the more than 200 Nigerian teenage girls abducted by Boko Haram almost a month ago. * Eight days ago, Boko Haram destroyed the small Nigerian town of Gamburo, killing
* Scientists say the melting of the West Antarctica ice sheet, now underway, will begin an "unstoppable" chain reaction of rising sea levels. * India, the world's largest democracy, goes to the polls. * Iran claims to have replicated an American drone. * Underwater explorer might have discovered Christopher Columbus&
The California Dream is made possible by old water and big water. Unfortunately, the former doesn’t care about us, and the latter’s running dry. A native reports from the wine country, where fires loom.
* With 104 billionaires in the UK, Britain now has more billionaires per capita than any other country. * Day in the life of a billionaire's butler. * London restaurant imposes fine on customers who don't finish what they picked up from the lunch buffet. * Putin suspiciously scores six
* Out of all US citizens, men in Portland are most likely to ride a bike to work. * In 39 states (but not New York), Brooklyn is now the most common female baby name beginning with B. * Iowa’s never elected a woman to Congress, but that may change, with many
After a death in the family, a precious musical instrument must be transported a thousand-plus miles. Should it break, a lot more is at stake than just music.
* Mexico's biggest financial institution thinks migration to the US is on the rise for the first time since the Great Recession hit. * New York's Chinese community mourns the loss of human smuggler—aka "snakehead"—Cheng Chui Ping. * Financial ignorance is widespread even as the
* Mexican farmers stop planting marijuana—thanks to decriminalization in the US—and turn to poppies for heroin. * Zuma and the ANC to win today's election in South Africa despite widely felt shame and disenchantment. * Somali Islamists blamed for two days of attacks in Kenya that killed at least
Even cable series must adapt to survive. Possible spinoffs of “Naked and Afraid” explore charted territory.
* National Climate Change Assessment says climate change has moved from the distant future to the immediate now. * Credit Suisse to pay a $1.6 billion penalty for helping wealthy Americans evade US taxes. * Central African Republic's bloody battleground makes the Darfur conflict look like "a model of
Cityscapes as you’ve never seen them before, built from luxury watches, sapphire pools, and other media prescriptions for the perfect life.
* At least 43 people died in Ukraine on Friday—the bloodiest day there in three months. * Hawking, other researchers warn against over-trust in AI. * As the first "rewilding" experiments mature, we're about to learn if reintroducing large animals to habitats can restore ecosystems. * Scientists announce age
* Ukraine launches assault on pro-Russian rebels, leading to two helicopters being shot down. * Russia celebrates the annexation of Crimea with a May Day parade, observed for the first time since the Soviet era. * A third of international air passengers' passports aren't screened against Interpol's database.
Lawbreaking occurs, a man calls for help, the police detain an endless lineup of men. Sometimes fraud comes as no surprise.
* Media outlet wonders why Hillary Clinton hates the media. * Nicholas Kristof’s cheerleading isn’t helpful to Ukraine or Moldova. * Politicians and executives alike embrace the walking meeting. * Scientists discover the Egyptians built pyramids by sliding their stones across wet sand. * Hawaii raised the state's hourly minimum wage
* Nigeria's 200+ kidnapped girls said to have been sold as brides to Boko Haram militants. * Untested drug cocktail leads to botched execution in Oklahoma, killing inmate 43 minutes later from a heart attack. * With NBA owners now on the hook for Sterling's future, other owners'
The Civil Rights Act, which marks its 50th anniversary this year, changed the shape of American society. The story of how it finally passed is just as remarkable.
* The great majority of innocent defendants convicted of capital murder in the US are neither executed nor exonerated. * Cities in Arkansas and Kansas, caught in the tornadoes' paths. * America's nuclear missile silos still use eight-inch floppy disks—outdated technology that's offline and unhackable. * The hackers
* Japan's government pressures those evacuated in the 2010 nuclear meltdown to return home, where radiation is triple pre-accident levels. * Despite support from dozens of health groups, efforts to kill bacteria with radiation slow to catch on in the US. * Stop lying to yourselves, and to your children. Stop
Large-scale, hand-drilled portraits—where pixels are drilled from enormous blown-up photographs—of people killed in Mexico's drug wars.
* [The end of net neutrality] threatens to make the internet...unequal in a way that deeply threatens our long-term prosperity. * Genetic analysis of blood and tissue from a 115-year-old woman indicates our cells' finite ability to divide might limit our life span. * Pastor running in South Carolina primary: "
A youthful pledge to become an essayist gets lost.
* Today the FCC ends the era of net neutrality, and will allow broadband suppliers to give preference to deep-pocketed companies. * Toxic West Virginia water will be pumped under Ohio, which may result in earthquakes. * Ineffective on climate change thus far, Obama has retooled his cabinet and restrategized new ways to
* Rwanda's president gets a free pass on human rights abuses because of Western guilt over genocide. * The case for firing nearly the entire New York Times columnist pool: sloppy and tired to the point of making Gail Collins look good. * Divorce rate for piping plovers is 67%; flamingos
The Heartbleed Bug exposed a well-known secret: Passwords suck. But that’s really nothing new—just ask the Romans. Explaining the password’s past and future.
* FDA approval of the first powdered alcohol, Palcohol, might have been made in error. * Putin signed recently two bills: one making it harder for non-Russian speakers to gain citizenship and the other expediting the process for Russian speakers. * LeBron James, the NFL, quarterbacks, and the Yankees: the most popular athlete,
Large-scale abstract paintings that recall networks, maps, and schematic diagrams—and with each subsequent viewing can become anything at all.
* Columbine, 15 years later. * Three of the 10 US metro areas where residents feel the least safe have violent crime rates below the national rate. * Almost 100 people were killed in the last five years by members of the white supremacist forum Stormfront. * UK's soaring melanoma rates linked
* Planet Kepler 186f, made of iron, rock, ice, and liquid water, is "potentially the most Earth-like planet we’ve yet found." * Of the 2,028 days in Beijing between April 2008 and March 2014, only 25 had air considered “good” by US standards. * Turkey's Ottoman Disneyland:
* Ukrainian citizens on the ground, as of last month, found to be divided, cynical, and angry. * Primer on what's happening where in Ukraine. * Thousands of zoo animals starving in Ukraine, though it's barely a worsening of their situation, long affected by corruption. * Pakistan Taliban ends its
The present-day lust for ruins is nothing new. In fact, it’s nearly as old as any ruins themselves. From a flattened Louvre to Percy Bysshe Shelley, a journey to the dawn of ruin porn.
* The UN/African Union mission purposefully misled the public about the worsening situation in Darfur. * Prominent female Republican argues increasing men's job prospects is the best way to ensure women's economic—and marital—happiness. * The landscape of hate groups and hate crimes in the US. * India
Twice a year, a group of friends gathered in a coal-mining pocket of Pennsylvania—friends in their twenties with fragile identities, who didn’t know yet what would happen.
* Tension high in Ukraine as authorities announce an "anti-terrorist operation" against pro-Russian separatists. * If you live in Russia and you think Crimea now belongs to the motherland, this map tells you that you're right. * California contract killer "Mano Negra" busted after a "sloppy&
Photographs of life inside a mining boom, from Montana to Texas, that’s producing a new, modern version of the Wild West.
* According to the UN's climate change report, for Earth to remain habitable we must cut carbon emissions to "near zero" by 2100. * The global economic crisis of 2007 and 2008 temporarily reduced emissions but didn't change the trend, the report says. * UN suggests fracking
* Seymour Hersh on Obama's secret "rat line," funneling weapons from Turkey to the Syrian opposition, including some jihadists. * Related: Photographer finds art in a parking lot of retired B-52 bombers. * The fewer babies Americans give birth to, the more small dogs they appear to buy. * In
* Pro-Russia citizens of Eastern Ukraine take over buildings and wait for Russia, feeling exposed. * Helpful, relatively brief primer on the recent saga of Ukraine, Putin, and the West's culpability. * American history told through first pitches thrown by Presidents, from Taft to FDR. * Alabama’s athletic revenues last year—
Her neighbors remember her as “the bag lady,” but Vivian Maier was secretly a street photographer who would leave behind an artistic trove that captured the public’s imagination.
* One in six Americans can find Ukraine on a map; the farther away people guessed, the more likely they were to support intervention. * At least 20 students stabbed in a Pittsburgh area high school. * Low-income housing in Los Angeles has evolved from dull, ugly buildings to some of the city&
Dreams of a Matalin-Carville romance tempt a young Washington journalist covering the death of a dictator to cross party lines in pursuit of love.
Photographs from a new book of American public libraries—some famous, some neglected, some both—plus an essay by former Poet Laureate Charles Simic.
* Today President Obama will sign an executive action requiring federal contractors to report salary data broken down by gender and race. * Lies, omissions, and a nefarious Polish general: a day in the life of Russian state TV. * The less people know about where Ukraine is located on a map, the
* Analysis of India's demographics, as the country prepares to vote, finds more than half the population under 24. * Amtrak's rules in big cities are bizarre, ignoring 150 years of accumulated wisdom about boarding trains; they are also easily avoidable. * The longer we wait to impose a
Two men, separated by more than 150 years, discover the folly of attempting Western-style capitalism in Micronesia.
* Note: TMN is on vacation until Monday, April 7, 2014. See you then. * Profit model of American drug manufacturing leads to shortages of basic medicines, like IV fluid. * Future for energy is renewables + "clean coal." * New Mexico's arid climate is bad for most crops but good
* In 2013, as executions rose 15%, people were killed for adultery, blasphemy, and watching banned videos. * Economists fear recession in Russia as investors yank out their money and growth evaporates. * Six million of the seven million people killed by air pollution in 2012 lived in Asia. * In remote areas of
* Fourteen dead and 176 still missing in the Washington state mudslide. * Gender divides the Supreme Court in Hobby Lobby case regarding contraception coverage in corporate health plans. * Writer boils Michelle Obama's virtues down to five essential traits of a good first lady. * Crimea and its battlefields helped make
* Ukrainian women launch campaign to withhold sex from Russian men. * Federal employees forbidden from smoking marijuana even in states where it’s legal. * Girl scout breaks national record, selling 18,107 boxes of cookies on Sunday night. * Quote about New Orleans lacking kale causes much consternation and many op-eds. * One-third
* Egypt court sentences 529 Morsi supporters to death; 700 more to go on trial tomorrow. * Numbers guru Nate Silver predicts Republicans will take control of the Senate in fall elections. * Ebola outbreak in Guinea doesn't deserve panic: the virus kills people too fast for them to pass it
* Moscow responds to Obama’s sanctions by banning nine American leaders from visiting, including Boehner. * The “acceptance” of Putin’s actions among the Western community appears to be on the rise. * Rate of melting ice in Greenland indicates sea levels will rise faster than projected. * Narcissus loved his reflection before
Small towns around Europe host goose-pulling days—contests to snap the necks of birds at high speed. In the name of sport and pride, a tradition from the Middle Ages prospers, criticism notwithstanding.
* Kiev will withdraw Ukrainian troops from Crimea and appeal to the UN to declare Crimea a de-militarised zone. * AP adapts its Crimean datelines, handing sovereignty neither to Ukraine nor Russia. * China has tripled its arms exports in the past five years and imports 11% of its weapons from Ukraine. * Child
* Tensions over Crimea may not cause a new Cold War, but instead a long period of confrontation. * Ukraine may be able write off $5 billion in debt to Russia. * Reported death of the "Russian bin Laden" cannot yet be confirmed. * Experiment shows fewer people performed tasks they didn&
A visit to a bear sanctuary could cure you of your bear phobia. Or it could turn your fear into a full-blown obsession.
* Ripples in space further corroborate that the universe expanded tremendously after the Big Bang, a theory known as inflation. * Russia has the same surface area of Pluto, and 16 other non-Crimea-related facts about the nation. * Murder of an indefatigable Ugandan MP fits a pattern of corruption and intricate coverups. * Dispatch
* Identical studies of the "five-second rule" reach opposite conclusions—both agree moist foods are more bacteria-prone. * Skin-tight astronaut suits mimic the effect of gravity and could prevent the brutal spinal damage caused by weightlessness. * More than 80 large passenger aircrafts have disappeared since 1948. * New study suggests ADHD
In Mumbai, paltry regulation means hundreds of new skyscrapers bring more lows than highs. Photographs of new construction, with titles named after the buildings’ advertising slogans.
* When asked what would happen on the eve of Russia's intervention in Ukraine, most international relations scholars got it wrong. * If Russia annexed Crimea, Ukraine would be stronger and Russia would be poor. * Novelist writing book set in Crimea looks on despairingly as current events spoil his plot.
* Pentagon spent around $300,000 to study Putin's body movements for clues to his intentions. * The Kremlin has proved that it has the means, and the media, to gin up support for Putin’s folly—but that won’t last indefinitely. * Richard Branson is the mirror image of
A family that relies on the satisfactions of the logical—calculus, physics, chemistry—finds itself haunted by ghosts.
* Feinstein accuses the CIA of illegal, unconstitutional actions: pillaging her committee's computers and intimidating staff. * Dueling anticipates the senator's looming report, expected to torch the spies over torture methods. * In case you missed it: Obama asks to see Zach Galifianakis's birth certificate. * Three years
Eventually a man who’s always in motion, always fixing something, will stop. Decline of the patriarch reveals an entire family’s vulnerability.
* New Pew survey shows millennials to be the most racially diverse, areligious generation in American history. * Pictures from Sochi's Winter Paralympics. * Africa doesn't need your wifi. * From online dating to online making-up: Couples use therapy apps to figure out why they're fighting. * Anti-Semitic comic
Haunting portraits of ancient old-growth forests in Northern California and the people who live in the former boom town next door.
* The week in world news: Serbia holds an election, Michelle Bachelet becomes president of Chile, and Slovaks go to the polls. * When passenger jets mysteriously disappear, conspiracy theories abound. * Cartoons on the Ukraine crisis. * Survey of modern Ukrainian literature provides context for recent weeks. * Drunk Canadian tourists, "covered in
* Army's chief prosecutor for sexual assault suspended for alleged assault at sexual assault legal conference. * Sixteenth-century artillery manual suggests strapping bombs to cats and doves. * Mr. Obama has fixed ideas about how best to pursue peace in the Middle East, and a far less solicitous style than his
* Statistics show the ACT is gaining popularity among high school students; the SAT is remodeling itself to imitate it. * College women more likely to adopt eating disorders, dislike their bodies after using Facebook. * Graphic designer crowd-sources funding to produce an "average Barbie." * Sex after rape: Survivors of sexual
* French scientists revive a huge—but harmless—virus after 30,000 years in the Siberian permafrost. * Related: The ancient virus sets the record for the longest a virus has remained alive. * World's oldest woman, 116, shares her secret to longevity: "Eat a good meal and relax."
Good books are frequently credited with being worth reading twice. But when was the last time anyone had time for that?
Evidence of diversity emerging in Northeast Tennessee, historically one of the United States’ most conservative, homogeneous regions.
* Kerry arrives in Kiev and offers $1 billion in loan guarantees, with sanctions to punish Russia coming later this week. * Mounting tension between Russia and Ukraine, in pictures. * John Oliver's satirical news podcast "The Bugle" blocked by China. * Views on gay marriage reveal new distinction between
* Ukraine is the latest example of Putin's top priority as president: To expand Russia's influence in Eurasia. * See also: how Ukraine lost its definite article. * By storing Russia's money, Europe has disabled its ability to stand up to Putin. * Special Economist report on democracy&
* UN reports 300,000 Nigerians uprooted and displaced as a result of Boko Harem violence. * Unlike Standard Oil and Carnegie Steel, Facebook and Google are everywhere and nowhere, making today's image of "the worker" similarly invisible. * President Abe reconsiders Japan's official apology to "
* January storms leave 21,341 sea birds dead off the coast of France, the country's worst bird "slaughter" since 1900. * Surge in U.S. teenagers with head lice blamed on group selfies. * Selfies from five cities compared for regional differences—gender, expressions, ages, even head tilt.
* Obesity rates in children two to five years old dropped 43% in the past decade. * Ukrainian journalists launch YanukovychLeaks from documents found at the Mezhyhirya compound. * Study of cursing on Twitter finds that Friday, Saturday, Sunday are consistently the least sweary days of the week. * Bitcoin investors greatly disappointed by
In today’s health care system, medicine often comes with a strange, Faustian bargain—including a plan for almost everything except the price.
* Georgia is considering a bill nearly identical to the legislation that allowed Arizona businesses to deny service to homosexuals. * Within the past year in California, more than a dozen children have developed a polio-like syndrome causing paralysis. * Harsh winter weather shaves half a percentage point from gross domestic product, but
Sumptuous, extremely close-up paintings of hair gel, body wash, and other beauty products, using 5-hour Energy powder, Viagra, and MDMA to create pigments along the way.
* Ukraine's acting leadership—whom Russia claims "seized power"—to meet with EU for economic assistance. * The Russian media continually make the claim that the Ukrainians who protest are Nazis. * In China, anti-vice campaign threatens Dongguan's economic stability, which depends almost entirely on sex tourism.
With just over a week to go until the 2014 Rooster crows, it’s time to download this year’s brackets and make your picks for which books will reign supreme—or lay vanquished—in The Morning News 10th Annual Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes. {image-1} Introducing the
* Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and opposition leaders sign a deal. * Wrenching photographs of the protests in Kiev from the last 24 hours. * New Jersey has run out of road salt, and a 90-year-old maritime law prevents it from acquiring more. * Fukushima plant stores runoff in tanks to prevent spillage—340,
* North Korea threatens to cancel, then permits reunions between its citizens and South Korean relatives. * U.S. Dept. of the Interior is spoon-feeding bad information to reporters—we now know 50,000+ wild horses live in atrocious conditions. * Whether to go "-gate" or "-ghazi": Toward a
When Roger Ebert died, America was deprived of one of its finest critics. We also lost one of our best writers on addiction.
* Explainer on the Ukraine protests, violence, and possible EU intervention. * The Kiev protests are Putin's worst nightmare. * The most hazardous countries in the world for drivers are also the countries with the least number of cancer-related deaths. * Dancing animals offer clues into how music has evolved in humans
A man and a supreme being walk into a bar. It’s a hokey joke until one day it’s true and the big man starts offering tax advice.
* UN investigators release 372-page report accusing North Korea of crimes evoking Nazi-era atrocities. * Infrastructures—access to firearms, prescription drugs—may overshadow mental illness in climbing suicide rates. * Neknomination, disastrous online drinking game in which a person takes shots and challenges others, is sweeping the globe. * Why the U.S. should
The power of architecture, the architecture of power—it’s all one and the same (and occasionally beautiful) in the business of high-tech.
* Right now Florida is the only state in the U.S. completely free of snow. * Indonesian volcano erupts; 200,000 evacuated while airports as far as Australia cancel flights due to ash. * Hungary strengthens ties with Russia. * In the U.S., 40% of children are born to single mothers—indirectly
* To explain how many medals a nation will win...the authors considered a nation's population and per-capita income. * Every time a freeze sets in, global warming skeptics crow—a brief explanation of why they're wrong. * Terrifying space footage of England, where wind gusts from 80-100 mph
The only thing worse than Valentine's Day is a crappy Valentine's Day. A handful of TMN writers and editors dish (anonymously) on their worst dates—crying men, rugby brawls, and a dislocated sacroiliac joint.
* Traffickers and local police have colluded to keep Eritrean refugees in torture camps in Egypt and Sudan for the past decade. * Audience attendance at Sochi is abysmally low—at times 50% less than stadium capacity—seats are now offered to volunteers. * American bars are too loud and cafes too quiet
The truth behind Washington’s Birthday, President’s Day, Presidents’ Day, or whatever the hell you want to call it, as briefly explained by puppets.
* Following years of the Taliban obstructing vaccinations, a Kabul girl is the first to be diagnosed with polio since 2001. * In Iraq, accidental detonation during training kills 22 would-be suicide bombers. * Stigmatizing smokers has gone too far. * North Carolina hospital informs patients they may have been exposed to a neurological
A gentleman in 1720 could read Greek while mounting a running horse. Today’s gentleman reads GQ in the bathroom. From rapists to stylists, a history of the American gentleman.
An artist observes her own process of making art, from daily encounters with her computer to personal reflections on how life itself unfolds.
* U.S. government to expand same-sex marriage rights "to the greatest extent possible under the law." * Behind the scenes of how the NFL prospect about to become the league's first openly gay player came out. * According to a former U.S. military drone operator, targets are
* Journalists' gleeful schadenfreude about personal inconveniences in Sochi is the hallmark of entitlement. * Post Cold War America and Russia have switched places—America was conservative and nationalistic while Russia was revolutionary. * Chanel No. 5 changed the perfume industry by incorporating musk; after WWII, animal secretions were de rigueur. * Alaska
Our Russia hand submits a roll-up of all the corruption, crises, ill-preparedness, highways paved with French luggage, and other #sochiproblems surrounding Putin’s graft-gutted Winter Olympics.
* Scientists discover entirely new way to reprogram animal cells into stem cells, with no genetic manipulation. * CVS to stop selling tobacco in 2015—an important move, though 75% of all cigarettes are purchased in convenience stores. * In France, hamburgers overtake baguette sandwiches in popularity; the French are also the second
Sometimes a love scene calls for [WHIMPERS], sometimes it needs [YELPS], but knowing which one to use makes all the difference. The secret life of a professional closed captioner.
We all have doppelgängers, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be friends with them. One Jennifer Berman reaches out to other Jennifer Bermans.
* Afghanistan parliament passes law enabling men to beat their wives and children without fear of prosecution. * When a gang can't afford rent in its neighborhood anymore, "it becomes a weekend gang." * See also: With street lamps switched to LED lighting, Los Angeles will never look the
Across generations, when children can’t find their comfort objects—usually soft toys like blankets or favorite stuffed animals—all hell breaks loose.
* WHO says there will be 22 million new cases of cancer each year within two decades. * Alaska has the highest rate of reported rape in America, three times the national average. * South Koreans consume around 14 shots of liquor a week; Russians consume 6 and Americans consume 3. * History of
* This is a particularly tragic death as Hoffman, 46, was very much still going strong. * Junod on Hoffman: “The great character actors are now the actors whose work has the element of ritual sacrifice.” * New abortion restrictions in Texas haven’t stopped women from seeking terminations—now they go to
Paintings of swimmers underwater, from an ongoing series that pays homage to summers spent sinking and floating in the lakes of Minnesota.
* Russia's life expectancy correlates directly to vodka consumption; a quarter of all Russian men die before 55. * Pew research shows 52% of Americans are disappointed with the outcomes of combat in Iraq and Afghanistan. * From Schwarzkopf's boots to traffic cones, the U.S. government's
The Morning News seeks an intern for Spring 2014. You’ll learn how a daily online magazine is produced and have opportunities to create content and contribute to the editorial quality of the publication. * Geographic location is unimportant. Internet, baby. * The daily work for this position is unpaid, but you
For decades, the NFL has been supported by ads that degrade women. But something changed in 2013—and it’s got everything to do with concussions. Prepare for the battle of mama-friendly beer spots.
* Ahead of Sunday's game, Times Square becomes Super Bowl Boulevard, with of course a 60-foot toboggan ride. * NFL may abandon Roman numerals for Super Bowls—a poll reveals just 5% of Americans can decipher "XLVIII." * NFL cheerleading is a scam. * The NFL has long been supported
A home birth begets a crash course in DIY medical waste disposal.
* Obama delivers modest State of the Union address, vowing solo action for remainder of his term. * Fact-checking the State of the Union. * The GOP's replacement plan for Obamacare is actually the party's first step away from the idea that it's going to repeal the
* Out of 3 billion airplane passengers last year, only 244 died—significantly fewer than the 2,900 deaths triggered by hippos. * "No, an Abandoned Ship Full of Diseased Rats Is Not Floating Towards Britain." * Anti-Corruption Foundation honors Sochi's five most distinguished money siphoners profiting off the
* This is Danny Pearl's final story. * Tunisia approves new constitution after bloody Arab Spring revolt three years ago. * Sixty-nine percent of olive oil for sale is doctored, with most "Italian" olive oils originating in Spain or Tunisia. * Stunning photo of ship stranded in Antarctica, surrounded by
Aerial views made from direct observation, enlivened by composite viewpoints, heightened color, and the manipulation of light and scale.
* FBI arrests revenge-porn site operator for paying a hacker to steal hundreds of nude photos from people's email accounts. * Morocco repeals law that exonerates rapist if they marry their victims, but marital rape is still legal. * Series of storms in the Atlantic tosses abandoned cruise ship of cannibal
When illness erases the fine line between love and obsession.
* European Union proposes to end binding national targets for renewable energy production. * Sulphate pollution from China results in U.S. smog. * Multiple studies show that gentrification may be a boon to longtime residents, who likely don't leave the neighborhood. * Data based on disease models predicts Facebook will lose
Offered an opportunity to help a father reach out to his young daughter, a writer agrees to assist. But the challenge isn’t as simple as grammar and commas.
* Interesting account of actor Jeffrey Wright's attempts to develop a gold mine in Sierra Leone. * Times of India's disturbing front-page headline. * Photos of Bombay's slum-surrounded residential skyscrapers titled after their ad slogans. * See also: Sketches of architecture and street life in Paris from the
* Two arrested at Texas-Mexico border with more than 100 fraudulent credit cards exploiting stolen Target data. * Korea Credit Bureau engineer arrested for stealing nearly half the South Korean population's credit cards. * Check to see if your email address or username has been compromised in a data breach. * A
{image-1} Zombies are everywhere in today’s films, TV, and literature. As we approach the 10th anniversary of the Tournament of Books, can the Rooster at least get a share of the credit? The Tournament of Books X, presented by the groovy folks and notebooks of Field Notes, will officially
Found photographs hand-altered with embroidery and collage, transforming pictures that were somehow incomplete.
* Egypt hires American PR firm to improve its image, then arrests its film crew within hours of setting foot in Cairo. * Times editor discovers a new relationship with her father when her dad discovers the joy of texting about the news. * Threats from Western countries to withdraw aid have slowed
After seeing “Inside Llewyn Davis” I just had one question: Where was that cat supposed to pee?
* Four years after he went missing, video surfaces of the only U.S. soldier held captive by the Taliban. * Thorough explainer of what you need to know about this week's net neutrality decision. * What's it like to live as a gay family in Russia today? "
* The NSA can use radio waves to snoop on computers that aren't connected to the internet. * Federal judge strikes down Oklahoma's ban on gay marriage, calling it "arbitrary" and "irrational." * Ezra Klein on what liberals get wrong about single payer. * Bill Keller
Ever since my dad got an iPad last year, he sees it fit to multitask: Read an article, and text me about it.
YouTube tutorials are the classrooms of the 21st century. Are they enough to make you a better person?
* NBC defends how it plans to broadcast the Olympics alongside Russia's "anti-gay propaganda" law. * Terrorism case analysis finds NSA's phone record collection “has had no discernible impact on preventing acts of terrorism.” * Mexico to deploy federal forces in western state where narcos and vigilantes
* China's steel manufacturing industry produces roughly a quarter of the world's steel—and is on the verge of collapse. * Researchers find MTV's 16 and Pregnant has led to a drastic decrease in teen pregnancy rate. * Ink-jet technology that prints retinal cells could help treat
* Rachel Maddow speculates: Christie wasn't targeting Fort Lee mayor with bridge closures, but NJ Senator Loretta Weinberg. * India firearms company launches exclusive revolver for women. * Until 1912, visitors to Niagara Falls could walk on the ice bridge—it's refrozen, but not to that point yet. * See
At the dawn of 2014, we anticipate what will happen in our new year. This is what will happen.
* Mounting evidence Christie is a bully. * I've never known a governor without a long list of local opponents, enemies, and plain chuckleheads. * Missing its deadline to elect new Olympic officials, India's athletes will compete as independents at Sochi. * UN to stop updating Syria's death
Passing the summer days in North Carolina’s low country often meant sitting on the porch with Grandpa and his radio. Today, it doesn’t take much to go back there.
* The first consignment of Syrian chemical weapons has departed by ship, to be destroyed in international waters. * Indeed, al Qaeda appears to control more territory in the Arab world than it has done at any time in its history. * Following the Snowden leaks, how Google, Facebook, and Microsoft nearly became
* [Snowden] went too far to be considered just a whistleblower. * The coldest temperature recorded in the Midwest on Monday was -36°—enough for antifreeze to freeze. * More than 22 million tons of salt are scattered on U.S. roads annually—about 137 pounds of salt for every American. * Why women
The rooster is back, and the rooster is famished. Introducing the finalists and judges for The Morning News 10th Annual Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
* Most areas of the U.S. are the coldest in nearly 20 years—some cities are 30 to 50 degrees below average. * Not that you'll need it today, but: A guide to where you should put your sunglasses when you head inside. * Mountains in areas without glaciers get
Street photography has never been more popular, now that everyone has a camera in their pocket. But truly good work requires constant failure—and constant walking.
* Indonesian miners' use of mercury to expedite gold production takes a devastating environmental, human toll. * Cocaine trafficking has claimed more lives than the Spanish Inquisition—ongoing deaths are equal to Nazi Germany. * Developing countries' obesity rates far exceed industrial nations'; China and Mexico's figures have
* In China, one in five children—about 61 million kids—live in rural villages without their parents. * Wal-Mart China's latest scandal. * Photos document the new identities of buildings that used to be Pizza Huts. * Twenty years after the Zapatista rebellion, indigenous Mexican tribes still denied entry or service
We gathered writers and thinkers to consider everything that happened over the past 12 months and asked them: What were the most important events of 2013—and what were the least?
The staff choose their most-liked pieces published in 2013: a trip to Patsy Cline's divided hometown, the complete biography of North West, a cold case of hit-and-run, and no shortage of great quotes about dead bodies.
Grandma got run over by a reindeer. Which is just as well, because she wouldn't have liked the gift you bought for her at the last minute. Gift ideas for the ungifted.
* Charity Navigator offers a holiday giving guide and tools to evaluate charities' ethics and effectiveness. * The Equal Justice Initiative believes the opposite of poverty is not wealth—it's justice. * Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles works everyday to fight the affordable housing crisis. * GiveDirectly will, as its
* Marks & Spencer prompts outrage after allowing Muslim employees to refuse selling customers pork and alcohol. * Following the Target breach, Chase would rather limit cardholders' purchases than invest in real security. * Why Snapchat matters: Because an erasable internet is a comfort that's the polar opposite of Facebook.
In the “visibleInvisible” series, a pediatrician-photographer takes luminous portraits of people considered to be outside beauty’s dominant ideal.
A full calendar year of only listening to music that was released in 2013 comes down to this: The Morning News Editor's Choice Awards for the 19 best albums of the year.
* Obama stays home and instead sends three openly gay athletes as part of his Olympic delegation to Sochi. * Billboard in Coimbatore, India commemorates Morgan Freeman instead of Nelson Mandela. * Lapham: "All jokes are inside jokes and the butts of them are us, the only animal that laughs, but also
* Obama's panel says the NSA shouldn't collect phone data, but critics see a path to continue untargeted spying. * Drone strike kills a dozen and injures more at a wedding in Yemen—the kind of strike that fuels rather than diminishes al Qaeda. * Patriarch of Duck Dynasty
As New York real estate prices skyrocket, it’s time to head where no gentrifier has gone before.
* This November was the warmest one since 1880; in fact, the 10 warmest Novembers on record have happened in the past 15 years. * Map of mishaps that have occurred so far during the 2014 Sochi Olympic torch relay. * Unsuccessfully marketed as an American patriot, Snowden has now rebranded himself as
Thirty years ago, two friends created a vision of the future—a space opera put to tape—and buried it in a time capsule. Listening again today, it turns out we remember the past as it never quite was.
* Federal district judge says the NSA's program of tracking all Americans’ phone calls most likely violates the Constitution. * The Pentagon's JROTC program recruits future soldiers from high schools in struggling neighborhoods. * Detroit-area high school is nation's first entirely "flipped" school. * U.S.
* Kim Jong Un's uncle was the first in a series of expected executions in North Korea—the youth are killing off their elders. * DPRK: "Despicable human scum Jang, who was worse than a dog, perpetrated thrice-cursed acts of treachery." * Why Uncle Jang's death matters
Human beings captured behind closed doors, in their most animal state. Some images may be considered NSFW.
* Masquerading sign-language interpreter at Mandela memorial tells interviewers he's schizophrenic. * Movie sets circa 1940 used white-coated cornflakes for snow; the cracking was so loud that dialogue had to be overdubbed. * Aviation schools offer advanced programs in drone piloting. * Google's top execs used tax-subsidized gas from NASA
{image-1} Unfortunately it’s still too early for us to release the 16-or-so finalists for the 10th edition of The Morning News Tournament of Books, arriving in March 2014. But we’re happy to share the long list of candidates that’s been furiously debated in-house by our panel—culled
* Women between 15 and 44 are more likely to be injured or die from male violence than from traffic accidents, cancer, malaria, and the effects of war combined. * Who is the next Mandela? * Australia overturns federal same-sex marriage law, declaring all unions that took place under it invalid. * Russian state
A sharp rise recently in the price of onions in India is about a lot more than just sandwiches. When onions are up, even governments are at risk.
A newborn wavers between life and something else. For the father, a walk in the woods elucidates the struggle between nature and nurture.
* Putin amps up Russia's military presence in the Arctic, a "Cold War-like" response to Canada's interest in the North Pole. * The coldest place on earth is an Antarctic plateau measuring -93.2 °C (-135.76 °F). * Winter cold is no impediment to New York&
* Canada pushes against Russia and Denmark to claim the North Pole, but still must prove its continental shaft connects. * Chinese state media issues a list of the five "surprising benefits" of smog. * The U.S. poverty rate has reduced dramatically since 1967, but has stayed the same—15%
Does hindsight improve with age? People, ages five to 60, name their life's biggest mistake and what they learned.
Photographed asleep, sunbathers on the beach show how endearing—and universally human—we all can be when we just lie down and let loose.
* Ukraine sends interior troops into Kiev, where protesters still block entrances to some government buildings. * A trip through the periodic table partially explains why we value gold over almost everything else. * Nadine Gordimer: "What is missing in the general view of Mandela is his wit, his quick humor."
* Nelson Mandela, dead at 95 from a lung infection, "was, quite simply, a wonderful man." * Zakes Mda: Mandela was a man of contradictions, and his followers are trampling on his legacy. * Past and present Africa correspondents from the New York Times reflect on Mandela. * Prince William and the
During holiday family get-togethers, don't risk bringing up a topic everyone's hoping to avoid. Instead, bring a board game and circumvent all conversation. Here are 10 of the best from 2013.
* Majority of Americans believes the country should “mind its own business internationally.” * New research finds women's and men's brains are wired differently—women for socialization and memory, men for perception and coordinated action. * If you still have room in your mind for a Snowden profile: Janet
* Politico believes Chris Christie's "Rubensesque" girth is his best asset, helping him relate to working-class voters. * Ukraine's desire to be affiliated with the EU is more symbolic than practical. * Editor of the Guardian describes pressures and precautions after coming into contact with the Snowden
The hoax at the Andy Kaufman Award show led to speculation the notorious comic faked his death—a joke that wouldn’t have been out of character. When a fresh-faced Glamour editor mingled with him the year before he died, Andy talked about disappearing.
* Along with workers and money, the U.S. plains oil rush has meant a boom in cartel, drug, and other criminal activity. * Corruption watchdog says the world perceives Australia as declining alongside Syria and Libya. * How Thailand reached its current insanity. * Texting has rendered the humble period surly and aggressive;
Travel is mostly boredom—and if you’re not bored, you’re pretty sure that everyone else is having more fun. Selected for “The Best American Travel Writing 2014,” the woes of professional travel writers.
* For consumers, healthcare.gov now appears operational, but there's no assurance it's working on the back end—for insurers. * Though homicides have dropped, Mexico's president hasn't yet delivered on promises to improve the economy and reduce crime. * Facing speculation he'd
A project to document Wisconsin’s broad variety of deer stands takes on new meaning after a round of chemotherapy.
* Rwanda to be the first country to perform non-surgical mass circumcision to curb AIDS. * New information emerges that the CIA at Gitmo turned al Qaeda suspects into double agents. * Greenwald: NSA is monitoring suspected radicalizers' online porn activity to ruin their reputation among denizens. * How the DEA took down
* China explains why it didn't respond when American and Japanese jets flew through its new air defense zone over the East China Sea. * Putin usually makes guests wait 30 minutes to see him, but the Pope waited nearly an hour. * New Snowden document says the NSA has been
* Consumers turn to private insurance-market websites to buy coverage while healthcare.gov remains troubled. * Private company purchases 150 acres of Detroit, with plans to turn the derelict East Side into farmland and orchards. * Though its strategies have proven ineffectual, no one can blame the USPS for trying to save itself
This Saturday, the 2013 hurricane season will end—and with it, possibly, New York City’s final hurricane-less year.
* D.C. Republicans increasingly furious at the Heritage Foundation, notably its 31-year-old "revolutionary." * Iran and America's top diplomats are selling the landmark nuclear agreement very differently at home. * Primer on the Iran nuclear agreement. * "A Guide to Eating Very Particular Feelings." * The champagne of
{image-1} Believe it or not, it’s time to gear up for the 2014 edition of The Morning News Tournament of Books. You may know it as the Rooster, the Grandaddy of Bracketology, or March Madness for Books—or, for that matter, the book contest that regularly predicts the winner
The top-selling spirit in Maine is a coffee-flavored brandy, something that could be straight out of old medicine texts. A hunt for the origins of a staple, in the northern woods and waterfronts.
* Last year there were 223 cases of polio; to reach zero, we need to spend billions and fight the Taliban. * Health authorities struggle to convince America that there's a post-antibiotics crisis coming soon. * See also: the "happy-hour virus," for when your computer needs to be temporarily
* Possible nor'easter predicted to ruin Thanksgiving travel plans on the East Coast this Wednesday. * In the next 50 years the island of Kiribati will sink into the Pacific; its government needs to relocate 103,000 citizens. * Six-month deal reached to keep the Iranian nuclear program in check, but
* From 1964, a JFK eulogy. * From Annie Hall to Slacker, finding humor in JFK assassination conspiracies. * I was in my gym class...Someone came in and said the president had been shot, and people cheered. * Alabama state parole board posthumously pardons nine black teenagers falsely accused of rape in 1931.
* Quotations and reports pulled from New York Times articles that ran in the four days following JFK's death. * Illustrated guide and plausibility reports for every JFK conspiracy. * Related: Time-lapse map of every nuclear explosion that's ever taken place on Earth. * Ezra Klein on the big filibuster
* White paper finds worldwide income inequality falling consistently over four decades, especially in the last decade. * Ballet dancers now think of themselves as brands, causing havoc among companies. * First people to hear Joy Womack's allegations about the Bolshoi Ballet were seated in a small Virginia library. * Study of
* By intervening in Mali, France may have saved other African nations from civil war, which often spills across borders. * Kenya's sex workers choose antiretroviral drugs over condoms. * For most Texans, the closest clinic to offer abortions after 20 weeks will stay open—it's in Albuquerque. * Exiled
An American ballerina makes headlines when she says the Bolshoi Ballet wanted a bribe to let her perform. The company denies her accusation. But a small library in Virginia knew about it first.
* If Walmart wanted workers to have a living wage, it could end stock buybacks that don't improve the bottom line. * Oil companies try to stay hush on spills—it almost worked in Mayflower, Ark., until people started getting sick. * Scientists unearth ancient seawater, which they discover has twice
Fifty years after Dallas, an illustrated guide to every person, plot, and nefarious organization ever accused of killing JFK.
* In a 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court upholds Texas's brutal abortion restrictions. * Four in five have updated their social media privacy in the past six months. * Dutch officials pay alcoholics in tobacco and beer to be less disruptive and clean parks. * Africa is often portrayed as
* U.S.-Israel ties strained over Iran accord. * Where the United States does stand out is in the level of inequality after taxes and transfers. * The eruptions of Indonesia's Mount Sinabung volcano, now active after 400 years of dormancy. * French newspaper goes image-less in support of photographers, who
* George Zimmerman's history of violence against women, like OJ Simpson's, should have been a red flag for murder. * So was the America of 1947–1974...the great exception in the nation's economic history? * Walmart blames Obamacare for poor financials, but given its workforce and
Lincoln’s speech at Gettysburg was short: only three minutes long, following a moving, two-hour performance by famed orator Edward Everett. It also was nearly meaningless.
* Five decades ago, JFK faced the same quagmire as Obama regarding Medicaid and socializing medicine. * Novelist and Nobel winner Doris Lessing, who wrote The Golden Notebook, dies at 94. * Atwood: "If there were a Mount Rushmore of 20th-century authors, Doris Lessing would most certainly be carved upon it."
* The worst job in DC: Obama cabinet member. * Science may find cures for rare childhood diseases—but for parents, eventually isn't soon enough. * Why do we ban cigarettes to minors [when] it’s OK to have 12-year-olds getting nicotine poisoning in the fields? * China is ending its one
In training centers around the world, American soldiers are taught to kill at close range—a “personal kill.” Pictures of the places where soldiers practice, and a discussion of the US military’s increasing reliance on machines.
* Neuroscientists say creativity and mental illness share a similar degree of vulnerability, called "cognitive disinhibition." * Argentina's central bank is losing more than $1B a month, with a reserve less than those of Romania, Nigeria, Angola, or Lebanon. * "China's cake millionaire at home in
* Aid goes unseen in many parts of the Philippines; officials post death toll of 4,000 in Tacloban alone. * Police commander in the Philippines fired for his estimate of 10,000 dead from the typhoon. * In the midst of a "robbery epidemic," rich neighborhoods in Oakland, Calif., hire
* When gun ownership decreases other methods of suicide increase. * Healthcare.gov's numbers prove little. * White House analysis disproves Healthcare.gov's claim that 50% of young adults are eligible for deep discounts. * So far the Rolling Jubilee has purchased and abolished $15M of Americans' personal debt.
* Poverty and political conservatism move out of America's cities and into its suburbs. * How to use math and game theory to win at nearly every game on The Price Is Right—except Plinko. * Britain to try outfitting staircases at three public buildings with signs stating calorie-burn counts. * More
Magazine publishing is a dark art. But the world of niche publishing—people who create magazines for necrophiliacs or donkey hobbyists, or for those of us who like to ride really small trains—features its own requirements.
* Death panels institute new cholesterol guidelines that will require all Americans to ingest statins. * Jobs in photojournalism have reduced 43% in the past decade—at three times the rate of editorial staff layoffs. * Scientists find that reindeers' eyes change from gold to blue in the course of a year
* Merger of American Airlines and US Airways approved after the airlines yield slots at major airports. * Small-scale British drug dealers launder their dirty money through gambling machines in pubs. * Micro bubbles in America's real-estate market, coupled with low mortgage rates, create windfalls for a few, instability for most.
* Analysis of Kerry's bet, and opposing views, that lining up a nuclear deal with Iran is still the smart play. * U.S. veterans return to Vietnam, some for closure, some to foster reconciliation between the two countries. * Cracking down on U.S.-waged "economic war," Venezuela&
Dirt is difficult to see on glass. That’s why so many people don't bother to hire a professional for the job—they just can’t see what’s wrong.
* Whenever Mother Nature wants to send an urgent message to humankind, it sends it via the Philippines. * Tom Scocca takes apart a psychotherapist's argument against Obamacare and explains how insurance actually works. * Retailers are clamoring for same-day delivery, and it may be enough to save the U.S.
* The situation in the typhoon-stricken Philipines continues to worsen; officials estimate 10,000 have died. * Well aware of the genocide that created Bangladesh, the post-Watergate U.S. chose to ignore it. * Presidential elections repel the well-adjusted...then they strip those oddballs of what is left of their self-respect. * Unconventional history
Inspired by folk tales, mythical beasts, and Portuguese azulejos, an artist paints her own version of natural history.
* Over the past decade lung cancer cases in Beijing have jumped by more than 50%—officials blame smoking and air pollution. * China's pollution is damaging sperm, exacerbating a shortage at sperm banks that's driven black-market prices up to $5,000. * California wine seller charged with creating
* Typhoon Haiyan, pummeling the Philippines, may be the strongest tropical cyclone to hit land anywhere in recorded history. * Africans protest sanctions against Zimbabwe after African observers declared Mugabe's recent election valid. * Ex-cop on not getting arrested. * Mugshots of criminals in Newcastle correctional facility from 1871-1873, many of them
* Poll finds only 35% of Germans consider the U.S. government trustworthy, and 60% consider Snowden a hero. * See also: As of October, only 19% of Americans trust the government; in 1958, that number was 73%. * Snowden may have tricked up to 25 co-workers to reveal their passwords for his
* U.S. economy grows in the third quarter contrary to economists' expectations. * Report card says America's students have made incremental improvements in math and reading since 2011. * Only a million of Puerto Rico’s 3.6 million people are employed; the population shrank four percent in the
Cracks are appearing in football’s helmet—injuries to athletes, injuries to the game. For one former high school and college player, the damage has gone too far.
* Inspectors have verified 22 chemical weapons production sites in Syria. * CIA declines to confirm that it's paying AT&T more than $10 million a year to assist with overseas counterterrorism operations. * You can avoid being mugged by walking in a way that appears less vulnerable. * As we
* Dutch activists posing as an avatar named "Sweetie" identify 1000 pedophiles soliciting webcam displays. * The United States is second behind China in the consumption of illegal animal products like ivory, rhinoceros horn, tiger blood. * "New Documentary Reveals SeaWorld Forced Orca Whales To Perform Nude." * Photo of
A visit with the prima donnas of the 32nd Annual Westchester County Cat Show helps a longtime owner appreciate her unruly childhood best friend, now departed.
* Democrats win races in Virginia, New York City, Atlanta, and Boston, but not New Jersey. * Among the takeaways from Election Night 2013: Republicans have an un-married people problem. * See also: Election-day oddities include 16- and 17-year-olds voting and Coloradans rejecting a bid for secession. * Obamacare subsides [sic] are designed to
* More areas where women in the U.S. earn more than men: nearly all part-time jobs. * Radiolab finds a disturbing possibility for why Kenyans dominate long-distance running: genital mutilation. * Google employees tell all. * Every night in Memphis, around 150 cargo jets land and take off again, transporting the world'
* John Kerry is a terrible Secretary of State. * For many whose coverage was cancelled under Obamacare, it's because those were insurance plans that began as a scam. * Since 2007 more than 580 deaths—mostly among dogs—have resulted from eating jerky treats, but no one yet knows why.
Afternoons in the big city are terrible. Sunsets are horrifying, nights are long and anxious. Other people have choices, but not you. Then suddenly, a bicycle.
* Very quickly, the matter of disbursing these funds became something else, a proxy fight over how to evaluate grief. * America shouldn't stop spying, even on allies, but it must do a better job of not getting caught. * "The 24 Hours Barack Obama Almost Threw His Reelection Away&
Sometimes beauty appears only for a short instant, as a flash of visual energy. It’s the photographer’s job to wait, observe, and then pounce.
* Germany's move to let intersex babies' gender remain unregistered is a first in Europe—parents aren't forced into deciding. * Kenya's president launches a website for citizens to report government corruption and bribery directly to him. * The world's 18 strangest airports. * U.
* Appeals court reinstates most of Texas's abortion restrictions, which will remain in effect until January. * Unfortunately not related: A sinister history of Halloween pranks, from riots to bigotry. * Whatever Obamaism really is, it has run its course. * Profile of John Ramsey, one of the Libertarian kids who are
* Syria wants to turn its chemical weapons factories into civilian chemical facilities, alarming inspectors. * Columnist detained in Saudi Arabia for writing about women drivers. * Greenwald on leaving The Guardian: "Reporting the NSA story has never been easy." * The Pacific Ocean has warmed 15 times faster in the last
* Mother explains why you shouldn't spy on your children, despite the myriad ways technology now allows you to track them. * Petraeus: How we won the surge in Iraq. * Potential HIV treatment completely wipes out virus from lab monkeys; effects may not apply to humans. * Architectural profile of the
* Google and Yahoo outraged yesterday at reports the NSA can collect information "at will" from hundreds of millions of user accounts. * Dick Cheney re-emerges in order to support the Tea Party and his daughter's campaign for Senate. * Boston wins the World Series at home for the
* The portions of the Texas abortion law that remain still make it burdensome for women to get abortions. * To win a seat in Congress, it helps to have a family member who's been in Congress. * Woes continue for healthcare.gov, with news that hacking into people's
* Spy chiefs say listening to foreign leaders is par for the course—and that Europeans would spy on Obama if it wasn't for his badass Blackberry. * Former Greek foreign minister admits to eavesdropping on American diplomats. * Haiku generator makes poetry out of NSA-flagged words. * Our security services'
* China does its best to scrub away evidence—both physically and online—of yesterday's car crash in Tiananmen Square, but images get free. * ABC scrubs clip and apologizes after child on Jimmy Kimmel Live! suggests killing everyone in China. * Related: Excellent remembrance of "Tank Man" and
Convinced his wife was buried by mistake, a widower insists on unearthing her body. What happens when they open the coffin? As is our Halloween ritual, TMN writers share their own endings to the story.
* White House poised to ban spying on heads of allied countries; former intelligence director tells leaders to get off cell phones. * Obama didn't know before the Snowden leaks that the NSA was targeting as many as 35 world leaders. * Brief introduction to the "five eyes" club,
Real-life villains to inspire costumes, including the conquistador so horrible the king of Spain made it a crime to say his name.
* According to Spiegel research, the NSA and CIA have used the American Embassy in Berlin as a listening station. * The largest business in death care in North America expects by early 2014 to ingest the next-largest chain. * Related: America’s funeral parlors mostly rely on one man to provide their
* Nineteen Syrian rebel groups reject participation in peace talks, demand end of the al-Assad government. * No matter what you read in the news, bullying is not on the rise and it does not lead to suicide. * Relatively large, never-seen-before asteroid very likely will not strike Earth on August 26, 2032.
A group of gray-haired representatives from across Europe gather in a central London gentlemen's club to discuss the United States' aggressive spying techniques.
* Acela passenger spies on former NSA head, live-tweets overheard phone call. * Europeans gather in a London gentlemen's club to discuss the U.S.'s aggressive spying techniques. * Countries that suffer the highest burden of malaria tend to be the least motivated to do much of anything about
* Ten countries have three-quarters of the world’s 30 million slaves; Mauritania comes out worst, with an estimated 4% of the population enslaved. * Nearly half of America's middle-class workers say they're not confident that they will be able to retire comfortably. * Iceland is the #1 country
* It will be the first time that American legislators hear direct testimony from civilian victims of a drone strike. * Because Obama's proposed clean-air rules will only apply to new power plants, the effect will be minimal. * The world's worst cities for outdoor air pollution—Bakersfield smells
* Hubble finds galaxy 1.3 billion light years away—the most distant cluster of celestial bodies discovered yet. * German Foreign Minister summons the American ambassador to Berlin over allegations the U.S. tapped Chancellor Merkel's cell phone. * Der Spiegel says the NSA and British GCHQ worked jointly to
* Kerry trying to charm back the Saudis over their disappointment that the U.S. strike on Syria didn't materialize. * Fewer than one in 200 Americans has a law licence, but lawyers include a third of the House and more than half the seats in the Senate. * Gallup finds
* The face of aid in Africa is Angelina Jolie and doctors in lab coats, but it should be the minimally trained community health workers. * Malcom Gladwell had his prefrontal cortex disabled to research ADD. * Brunei to implement amputation for theft, stoning for adultery; criticism of policies is virtually nonexistent. * In
* When President Obama says that the deficit has been cut in half, he is substantially understating what has happened. * U.S. jobs report shows a smaller rise in employment than is expected for this stage of economic recovery. * Mexico condemns U.S. spying after Snowden data showed the NSA read
* Drone strikes do more than end civilian life—they destroy it by grounding local troops and fostering corruption. * If the Obama administration has its way there won't be an end to the counterterrorism war in Afghanistan for years to come. * Northern China is awash with smog; small particle
When dementia gets its grip on a father who always loved slasher movies, a daughter struggles to hold on—if only to the ghost of recognition.
* Tyler Cowen's evil twin explains why the shutdown and debt crisis were all part of a brilliant GOP plan. * In 2012, Mexico produced more than 3 million vehicles, compared with 10.8 million in the United States. * Of the $60 billion global art market, Chinese art accounts for
* Violin believed to have been played by the Titanic's bandmaster as the ship sank sells at auction for £900,000. * A growing number of young Japanese adults are uninterested in sex—their parents worry about "celibacy syndrome." * In the awful Virginia gubernatorial race, the Richmond Times-Dispatch
Many painters depict themselves, but few work exclusively in the genre of self-portraiture. Selections from Haley Hasler’s body of work—the artist in costumes of everyday life.
* Snowden says he didn't bring any NSA secrets to Russia—he left all classified documents with journalists in Hong Kong. * MTA says this year's projected record number of track deaths doesn't signal a trend. * Whenever you hear a quote about Obamacare, it's
* Native Americans' under-noticed role in the Civil War: Seward once told fighter Ely S. Parker, "Go home, cultivate your farm." * Europe's human rights chief warns Britain it cannot cherry-pick its rules and must give prisoners the right to vote. * Human Rights Watch accuses Ethiopian officials
* Collected from the shutdown: Guess the political grimace. * Biden welcomes EPA workers with muffins and hugs. * Also for your afternoon break: The National Zoo animal cams are back. * The "best" moments from the shutdown. * The craft beer craze hits Paris—enough to coin a new term, bièrologues, aka
* Two years later, American governance is behaving as though it deserves to be downgraded. * What the GOP in Congress would look like as clowns, which, well. * During last night's House vote, a stenographer lost her composure and was removed from the floor. * America is governed by entitlements because
* Liveblogging the debt negotiations as tomorrow morning's default deadline looms. * Nations with a history of default weigh in on America's debacle. * Every day the NSA collects an estimated half-million address lists from live-chat services and web-based email. * The government has kept using Windows XP and Server
* A brief history of lust intercepting foreign policy. * The journey to Mecca is not what it was 100 years ago; hotels dot the landscape, one so grand it towers over the Kaaba. * Snorkeler finds carcass of 18-foot-long oarfish, a creature that normally roams 3,000 feet under the ocean surface.
Giant Chinese pigeons, Scarlett Johansson’s daughter, and deliberately un-green urban living: What to expect from London, Los Angeles, and Moscow in 2040, 2070, and 2100.
* White House rejects House Republicans' counterproposal that tacks on more changes to Obamacare. * After the Balkans and before the war on terror, a military guide to PsyOps. * When a woman kisses a man, she might be subconsciously detecting and scrutinizing his chemical signals. * Doctors worry a new wave of
Going on a five-day cleanse—subsisting on a diet of shots, smoothies, very few actual foods, and no caffeine—leads to visions of apocalypse. From 2013, a quest to find the seven billionth child on Earth.
* The deal to end the shutdown, and how it could still go wrong. * The shutdown halts NIH's ability to approve new treatment in drug trials for 200 people a week, many of them fatally ill children. * Since the shutdown began, the White House's vegetable garden has
* Columbus Day does not commemorate discovery, but, rather, the ambiguous "landing." * Vent your shutdown frustrations: Take a drink, enter your number, and drunk dial Congress. * While you sleep, your brain moves memories from short-term to long-term storage. * In a very short period Mozambique saw colonialism, post-colonialism, communism, civil
* More Snowden fallout as all major internet organizations unanimously move to end U.S. online dominance. * Buzzfeed is going global by crowdsourcing the translation of its content to foreign-language speakers learning English. * A new report finds only a third of the global population between 15 and 24 are true "
Portraits of men in Philadelphia taken just moments after they catcall a woman on the street.
* A new Gallup poll finds most Americans feel dysfunctional government is the top problem America faces. * Nations' internet populations juxtaposed with the size of their actual populations. * Mexican drug cartel kidnaps Spanish band Delorean for 30 hours; John Talabot and Pional cancel tours over safety concerns. * See also: Talabot
* Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons wins Nobel Peace Prize as inspectors begin arriving in Syria. * See also: Photographic visits to the offices of Nobel Laureates. * Credit accorded to the Nobel Academy and Alice Munro for finally rewarding "a genuinely popular" writer. * China's top whistleblowers
* Single chart shows the Republicans' shifting demands before they refund the federal government. * See also: Cartoon explains the purpose and colorful history of the debt ceiling. * The government shutdown is basically the best news ever for money launderers. * Just because you don’t want to pay for health insurance
Modern dentistry does wonders for a rotten molar or a cracked bicuspid—it’s modern dental insurance that falls short.
* Scenario of what a default could look like, especially if John Boehner gets into a car accident on October 16. * Yay, let's end the U.S. government and move back to the old worlds from which the majority of us came. * Janet Yellen, nominated to lead the Federal
* A government shutdown worst-case scenario is happening as a Salmonella outbreak reaches 18 states. * Especially at a time of war, any threat to the Treasury's financing is a threat to national security. * See also: Everything you need to know—in cartoon form—about debt-ceiling fiascos, from McKinley’s
* Main NSA data center in Utah, which uses enough energy to power 33,000 houses, experiences electrical issues. * MI5 agent defends British surveillance. * See also: Apology notes from the NSA to private citizens. * Kuwait claims it has the technology to detect homosexuals—an actual gaydar—and will use it to
Once again the debt ceiling's up for grabs. Everything you need to know—in cartoon form—about previous fiascos.
* Q&A with Assad. * See also: Pictures from 2012-2013 by a photojournalist embedded with a Free Syrian Army militia in Aleppo. * Banksy parodies Syrian rebel videos as part of his monthlong New York residency. * Related: Banksy converts a New York delivery truck into a mobile garden—complete with fluttering
Since the closing down of Silk Road, the number of drug dealers selling online has increased nearly 50 percent. A former customer waits in fear, wondering why he used his real name.
* Pro-shutdown House Republicans are holed up in a conservative narrative that isn't entirely crazy—but it's close enough. * Surowiecki: For small businesses and entrepreneurs, the benefits of Obamacare are enormous. * Area family putting a little money away to one day blow on single health scare. * Ironic
* An uninsured physician's assistant faces a health crisis. * In response to a grassroots movement, Swiss government to vote whether to introduce an unconditional income for all adults. * During the 1950s, the average French person worked 300 more hours a year more than the average American. * Inside the exclusion
* U.S. credits Assad for eliminating Syria's chemical weapons. * Hallway, bathroom, and other informal talks between Congress members offer hope for an end to the government shutdown. * We won't actually know if the Tripoli raid counts as any sort of a triumph either until we see.
Pictures from a photojournalist embedded with a Free Syrian Army militia in Aleppo, the country’s largest city, now torn apart by war.
* Coders ridicule Heathcare.gov. * What is your most cherished Christmas memory? Knitted jumpers, overcooked Brussels sprouts, family arguments? Time to try Christmas in North Korea! * By next June, Pyongyang will have Carmen Electra. * Once the elixir of British kings, mead experiences a surge of popularity in the U.S.—it
* Editors of the National Review offer Republicans three strategies for ending the shutdown without losing too much face. * Far-right Republicans are deeply angry because America's political reality really does seem to have a liberal bias. * There have been at least five shootings and bombings on the Capitol grounds
* Maybe our leaders, who seem so quick to threaten violence or shut down the government, should spend some time with dairy cows. * The Congressmen who drove the shutdown come from overwhelmingly white, gerrymandered districts—and represent 18% of the population. * A study correlates conspiracy theorists with those who distrust scientists
* People tell Jimmy Kimmel whether they prefer the Affordable Care Act or Obamacare. * Many Americans think their politicians spout childish nonsense, but rarely have they actually revelled in doing so. * FBI arrests alleged Dread Pirate Roberts, man behind Silk Road, the online drug bazaar. * Corruption takes on "mind-bending new
* International inspectors head to Syria to begin chemical weapon dismantling. * In terms of military cooperation and trade investments, China-U.S. relations are improving, though still tense. * A Q&A on the policy substance behind the shutdown. * See also: In October 1975 the New York Daily News published a legendary
* Fox News: "It's more of a slimdown than a shutdown." * Veterans break down barricades at WWII Memorial, plan more shutdown disobedience. * Which government employees are required to take unpaid leave and which ones have to stay, in one tidy graph. * The reason Congress members get paid—
Driving from Lebanon toward Syria, across the Saudi Arabian desert to Dammam, in a taxi among the refugees of Beirut—quickly becomes the Wild West.
* Many parallels found between the last 48 hours in D.C. and a traditional Hollywood Western. * Additional "really top-notch commies" added to Washington Post's list of America's top communists. * Behind-the-scenes report from the sale of the Washington Post to Amazon.com's Jeff
* With all the attention on Syria and Iran, Egypt has slipped under Washington's radar. * Government shutdown bewilders other countries. * The government has "shut down" 17 times since 1976—we should stop calling it a "shutdown." * What the shutdown means for you: "Any attempt
Radio advertising has gotten ridiculous—incendiary spots for monster-truck rallies and ladies’ nights at clubs. But surely the most appalling ads are for brunch.
* Kentucky governor tells Republicans to "get over" Obamacare. * Parsing the doublespeak around the government shutdown uncovers triple negations and results in headaches. * With the shutdown edging nearer, Republicans lay the groundwork for avoiding blame. * The Heritage Foundation's 1980 Mandate for Leadership proposed universal health care and
* Gun ownership among women has doubled in the past year; advocacy groups teach defense-based target practice and firearm safety. * See also: A childhood ban on toy guns didn’t erase death from a group of friends, but it changed their view of mortality. * Running away to China to learn kung
When an artist receives a heart transplant, his drawings of the procedure acquire all the gravity of a fever dream—intensely realistic, with hallucinations of the dead.
* George Will on Republicans' lame attempt to defund Obamacare: "Those people who are best at deceiving others first deceive themselves." * Related: Man who understands 8% of Obamacare vigorously defends it from man who understands 5%. * An estimated 12 workers will die every week during Qatar's
* Al-Qaeda now controls more territory and can call on more fighters than at any time since bin Laden created the organization. * Interactive guide shows what today's report about climate change means for temperature rises in your lifetime. * Black Friday as we know it is a moribund tradition, more
* Yesterday in diplomacy: Iran's new president acknowledged the Holocaust did occur. * Small but growing business emerges for $120,000 “designer” American babies provided by surrogates to China’s elite. * Banner Poison Control Center in Arizona reports two cases of flesh-rotting drug’s use, believed to be the first
Every generation gets the fictional doomsday it desires. What we learned during our dystopian, end-of-the-world summer vacation at the movies.
* Key rebel groups in Syria abandon the opposition’s political leaders, and sign up with an affiliate of Al Qaeda. * Stories from survivors of the Westgate mall attack in Nairobi. * FBI releases footage of the Navy Yard shooter, photos of his weapon, timeline of the attack. * Pussy Riot protester explains
* A complete history of U.S. government shutdowns and why they happened. * Powerful earthquake in Pakistan kills 45 and causes a new island to rise in the Arabian sea. * Beirut activists fight to preserve 2,000-year-old Roman hippodrome after government approves replacing it with luxury homes. * Aerial photographs of Mexico
* Obama dedicates the rest of his term to better relations with Iran and a solution for Palestinians. * "Republicans Warn Iranian President Against Shaking Obama's Hand." * Among the victims of the siege at the Westgate mall is the credibility of Kenyan authorities. * So far, metadata has mostly
* One of the final poems of Kofi Awoonor, who died in the Kenyan mall attack. * Protecting his mother and sister during the Nairobi attack, a four-year-old shamed a gunman into sparing them. * Don't blame America's mass shootings on movies and video games—violence as entertainment is
* Public defender says criminal statutes would be instantly overhauled if middle-class Americans were policed like working-class people. * Cruise ships wreck havoc on Venice's visitors and vistas. * California passes first law against "revenge porn," but stigma still blames women for taking nude photos of themselves. * Bird'
* The U.S government seems to be taking the terrorist Twitter account seriously. * Why you should visit Iran. * Considering whether America's gun problem warrants outside intervention—it's so bad it could be considered a humanitarian crisis. * Neuroscience looks beyond pharma, devises ways we can alter neural
* Survival stories from the Nairobi mall attack. * Essential: A backgrounder on al-Shabab's war with Kenya. * Death toll in Pakistani church bombing climbs to 78; Taliban says violence will continue until U.S. drone attacks end. * A month-by-month timeline of U.S.-attributed civilian deaths in Afghanistan from 2001
One woman powers herself with a solar panel. Another wears a neon sign in her Afro. In the future as in the past, identity is never one-dimensional.
* Inside an Afghanistan juvenile center for young militants caught attempting suicide attacks. * Slideshow: American teenagers chronicle their hometowns. * About 150 Americans die a year by accidentally taking too much acetaminophen. * The Russian gunfight over Kant is only the latest in a series of arguments over the philosopher. * See also: "
* A district-by-district breakdown of which Americans would have lost benefits had the anti-food stamp bill passed in 2011. * Panera CEO tries to live on a $4.50 daily budget for food, discovers he cannot afford Panera. * Puerto Rico's poverty rate is 44.9%—double the amount of poor
Rough waters for Russia’s fabled Bolshoi Theatre have prompted soul-searching among the country’s dancers, officials, and fans.
* Since 1990, Australians "have enjoyed the longest period of economic expansion unbroken by recession of any developed country ever." * The difficulties of representing the sea on stage in Early Modern England. * British people use ["bloody"] quite a lot less than Americans think they do and a
* India has left it to America to crown the first Indian beauty queen who looks...well, Indian. * France advances on banning beauty pageants for children under 16; organizers could face jail time. * On Pickering's Harem, the forgotten female research assistants who pushed astronomy forward. * Now that Facebook likes
Economic recession. Climate disaster. Chaos in the Middle East. The world cries out for leaders who will face our biggest dilemmas, and all we get are short-sighted narcissists. Where are the great leaders of today?
* American Journal of Medicine fast-tracks publication of study proving high gun ownership makes the U.S. less safe. * The next mass shooting will take place on February 12, 2014, in Spokane, Wash., by a 38-year-old white man at a place he used to work. * Related: "It’s not enough
A baby is born to a celebrity couple. Meanwhile, many more babies are born to countless other non-famous couples. This is what happens next.
* Washington's awful politics are exactly what we should expect "in a country where a successful economic model has broken down." * In the House, Democrats voted with Mr. Obama 90% of the time in 2009 but 77% last year. * I think we’d have a better justice
* Big photos of Colorado's historic flooding. * On average, drivers who search for a "good" parking spot end up no closer to their destination than those who park immediately. * Most universities lose money on sports; they make up the difference through tuition and state tax hikes. * A
* CDC issues report on the top antibiotic-resistant infection threats. * Actually, John McCain won't be published in the print Pravda, but Pravda.ru, which split from the the Communist organ years ago. * In Russia, an argument over Kant ends in a shooting. * Studies show Facebook makes us sad and
When a photographer reviews 35 years of unposed family pictures—unexpected moments, children growing older—a symphony appears.
* Multiple fatalities at a shooting in a naval office building not far from Capitol Hill. * By the end of this century, scientists predict, seas may be 150 percent more acidic than they were in the 18th century. * Franzen: "Real anger, anger as a way of life, was foreign to
What happens before an NRA-commissioned—or rather, university-approved—study reaches the public.
* Syrian National Coalition says, if you're going to ban chemical weapons, could you please also ban aerial bombing, too. * Pravda agrees to publish column by John McCain attacking Putin's leadership. * State-sponsored Voice of Russia proposes transferring Obama's Nobel prize to Putin. * Aerial footage of
* National Guard sent to rescue the 2,000 residents of flood-besieged Lyons, Colo. * The more we fixate on chemical weapons as "bad" warfare, the more we make conventional weapons seem like "good" warfare. * Japan to file formal complaint over French newspaper's inappropriate jokes about
Mumbai could be thought of as New York, LA, and Lagos all wrapped into one. But a string of rapes changes all that.
* In case you were wondering: How exactly that Putin op-ed made its way to the New York Times. * Related: Putin's op-ed annotated and fact-checked. * Violence in Syria foments a new tradition of and interest in poetry. * Egyptian Army soldiers superimposed on idyllic postcards. * The "traditional American family&
* Ken Layne interviews Satan 12 years after 9/11 and reviews what has occurred as a result. * Putin says Americans aren't exceptional; Senator Menendez says that makes him want to vomit. * "Trader Joe’s Is Dropping Coverage For Some Part-Time Workers—And That Means Obamacare Is Working.
A childhood ban on toy guns didn’t erase the specter of death from a neighborhood.
* Putin, overtaking Obama as leader of the world's Syria agenda, said to be "relishing" his role as statesman. * Putin in the Times: It is extremely dangerous to encourage people to see themselves as exceptional, whatever the motivation. * Maureen Orth's 2000 Putin profile for Vanity
* The richest Americans earned the highest share of the nation's income in the past 100 years. * Here's the awkward thing for Labour: the economy is slowly picking up steam. * Citizen militias fighting drug gangs in the hills of central Mexico are becoming better armed and more
* Obama delays Syria military vote he was certain to lose in favor of exploring Russia's proposal for international monitors. * The lessons of Weiner and Spitzer. * From 2009, Tom Junod's haunting essay about the photo of the man plummeting from the World Trade Center. * Poems by Auden,
In early New England, anyone who stood near an open door or window faced mortal danger. A conversation with a woman who hunts for gravestones with epitaphs describing death by lightning strike.
* Following days of violent protests, Indian court finds four guilty of raping and murdering a student on a bus in December. * The war in Syria: what it looks like when six million people are displaced. * Desperate to make the case for military action in Syria, the White House invokes the
* Even within the extremely elite confines of [Harvard Business School], the ultrawealthy are segregating themselves. * Linguists: It's "syllabuses," not "syllabi." * Related: How to make syllabub. * For the past 40 years, the daughter of the man who designed and built Auschwitz has lived in Northern
This summer in Manhattan, it was important to wait in line for an hour to see light designed by James Turrell. Many bought the hype. Many were angry afterward.
* Haunting photos from Syrian refugee city in Jordan comprised entirely of tents that 144,000 now call home. * Spiegel reports the NSA can tap into personal data on nearly every smartphone. * How Pat Robertson used a charity mission in war-torn Rwanda as a front to further his diamond mine interests.
* Brief rundown of Syria's many rebel groups, majority of which are under the nominal control of the Supreme Military Council. * Statistical overview of prison suicides. * Interactive visualizations of stop-and-frisk policing based on NYPD data. * For teenagers, e-cigarettes could be a gateway to tobacco addiction rather than an escape.
Multi-layered photographs show people’s inner lives merging with their environments—suggesting that what we see of reality is less than what actually exists.
* Obama directs Pentagon to expand its list of potential Syrian air-strike targets. * The latest House whip count on authorizing force in Syria: 217 say or lean no, 44 say yes. * Iran orders attack on American interests in Baghdad if the U.S. commits to striking Syria. * Iran’s new foreign
* Germany—which has Europe's highest electricity prices—is about to get a 20% rate hike for going all in on wind and solar. * When the correct answer to a math problem goes against one's political beliefs, it becomes unsolvable. * Spanish helpline reports rise in suicidal callers
As another military intervention gets underway—with your name on it—we thought a brief tour of recent history in Syria would be useful, with lots of pictures.
* Putin tells leaders at the G20 summit that Syria is a topic best left to dinner discussion. * Assessing the Assads' Instagram account. * Profiles of scientists responsible for the world's chemical weapons. * Latest Snowden leak shows Al-Qaeda’s leadership asking engineers to find ways to shoot down, jam,
What should readers demand from their reporters? Find the shadows. Examine the complex problems. And captivate us. Journalists from Slate, Deadspin, ProPublica, NPR, and more on what readers should expect.
* Emergency-room doctor writes about treating victims of an incendiary-bomb attack in Syria. * Supporters of military intervention argue we should think of U.S. bombing runs in Bosnia in 1995, not Iraq in 2003. * Round-up of Syria-related conspiracy theories. * Every angle considered in case you, too, were suspicious about all the
* Nevada launches a website that lets you fantasy-shop for Obamacare—before you do it for real on Oct. 1. * Giving some credence to the Facebook post allegedly from Assad's 11-year-old son: The Assad administration's kids liked it. * A look at the data shows that yes, the
* Radiocarbon analysis reveals Ancient Egyptian civilization began 1,400 years later than our current estimation. * Female doctors and health professionals are paid 25% less than their male coworkers—25 years ago it was 20%. * The paucity in philosophy of women and people of color is often blamed on [women and
The spread of the selfie produces daily turmoil, from columnist doom-mongering to celebrity scandals. Meanwhile, the world just took a billion more. Defense of a misunderstood phenomenon.
* For the past six years, the DEA has had access to AT&T phone records dating back to 1987. * With new variations emerging daily, synthetic drugs stay ahead of law enforcement, though not the ER. * Serial killing is down and the peer-to-peer economy is booming: Once again, Americans trust
Ear cleaners, knife grinders, street-side barbers—portraits of Indian tradesmen who maintain caste-prescribed professions.
* Ten months after "civil unrest" began, Britain OK'd sales of nerve gas chemicals to Syria. * Syria's first lady spends while her country burns. * This very lexicon...that found its way into Heaney’s most public poetry is the same one we are speaking regarding
* They may just be the first YouTube videos to start a war. * Paleontologists announce the most complete dinosaur skeleton ever found in British Columbia, expect their dig will produce more. * Researchers say thinking about money problems clouds your faculties, makes it harder to solve other problems. * Why NFL helmets will
* Washington Post obtains the NSA's "black budget" from Snowden, showing precisely how the "espionage empire" spends its money. * Everyone forgets that the "March on Washington" was the "March for Jobs and Freedom." * White House and Congress work to end "
* American and British lawmakers try to slow their countries' increasingly fast march toward a strike on Syria. * From the Onion, "Syria Conflict Intensifies As Bears Enter War." * South Korean paper reports Kim Jong Un's ex-girlfriend has been executed for violating North Korea's pornography
* UN weapons inspectors will leave Syria on Saturday, one day ahead of schedule. * White paper: Military interventions in favor of the rebel faction tend to increase government killings of civilians by about 40%. * Group proposes naming storms after lawmakers who deny climate change. * In South Africa, synthetic drugs with ingredients
More and more, we communicate today in short bursts of text. Letters may be dead, but we still write to each other constantly. A man considers what could be his last words to his children from a departing airplane.
* At the front lines of the chemical attacks in Syria. * Another look at the "red line": When chemical weapons are worse than conventional killing. * An internal debate over bombing Syria. * The pro-Assad Syrian Electronic Army takes down the New York Times, attacks Twitter and HuffPo in the UK.
* Gospel singer Mahalia Jackson credited for encouraging King to speak about his dream. * Related: Jackson sings "Closer Walk With Thee" at the Newport Jazz Festival, 1970. * California rim fire that threatens to disrupt Yosemite and San Francisco water supply can be seen from outer space. * In Thailand, "
In light of the ongoing Snowden leak, the National Security Agency has begun mailing apology notes to private citizens. However, since it did take the time to read your correspondence, advice may be included.
* "While unceasingly observing and witnessing the heartbreaking bloodshed," Syrian Comment explains why intervention isn't viable. * One of America's most respected bankruptcy lawyers moonlights as a new-age healer, claiming his "energy hand" works. * If you are what you do, what are you when
* UK draws up contingency plans for military action in Syria; Russia warns of "catastrophic consequences." * Kerry's speech marked the harshest American condemnation of the slaughter in Syria to date; it didn't mean we're going to war. * Assad's use of chemical
* The Guardian will grant the New York Times access to some of its trove of Snowden documents. * Der Spiegel releases Snowden documents that show the NSA hacked into foreign nations' videoconferences at the UN. * At a planned Upper West Side luxury tower, rich and poor occupants will have separate
* Documents show the Reagan administration knew of, but never disclosed, Saddam's widespread use of chemical weapons. * This was the birth of the Black Chamber, the NSA's earliest predecessor, and it would be hidden in the nondescript brownstone. * Coptic Christians in Egypt face an uncertain future. * Related:
Modern-day totem poles constructed from Americans’ favorite consumer materials—cars, beer cans, even cheeseburgers.
* Despite warnings, when doctors prescribe antibiotics, they usually prescribe big—and often shouldn't prescribe at all. * Dentist buys one of John Lennon's teeth at auction, hopes to clone the late Beatle. * Regarding Manziel, in defense of NCAA rules: Most of the athletes actually want an education.
* Assessing the media's trouble with pronouns after Bradley Manning became Chelsea Manning. * Chelsea Manning's statement on day of sentencing. * American photographer tells of torture and seven months' imprisonment with jihadi rebel fighters in Syria. * Photojournalist gang-raped in Mumbai. * No one is going to put money
* Bradley Manning: "As I transition into this next phase of my life, I want everyone to know the real me. I am Chelsea Manning." * After Sandy Hook, Dick's Sporting Goods halted assault rifle sales; now they've reintroduced them at a new chain. * See also:
* White House and the NSA struggle to stop getting lapped by the Snowden-related news cycle. * If forced to choose between Bush and Obama, more Louisiana Republicans blame Obama for Bush's mistakes during Hurricane Katrina. * France warns Syria of forceful response over chemical-weapons allegations. * Reporter hijacks Kremlin-funded news program
* Astronaut recruits asked to compose a haiku, limerick, or Twitter post as part of their NASA application. * French language purists should note the first article of the 1789 Declaration of Human and Civic Rights is the perfect length for a tweet. * Roundtable debate over e-cigarettes—e.g., do they simply
Readers of science reporting often find their heads spinning. Some of the science reporters do, too. A look at how the best of them make inexpertise an asset.
* Study finds intelligence officers more prone to irrationality than students when choosing between risky options. * In the back of an Egyptian police van, 36 protesters suffocated; elsewhere, 25 police officers executed. * The war between state power and those holding it to account needs constant refreshment. * British government, not quite understanding
* The National Review scolds anti-Common Core conservatives. * Elmore Leonard dies at 87—the author was at work on his 46th novel. * The result is something that one would not think possible: a nearly perfect book. * A UK tabloid art form, noun piling is rare in the U.S.—Sunday'
* With Lyme Disease diagnoses long underreported, the CDC's 10-fold estimated increase could return us to reality. * Black prosecutors: "What do we tell our sons about Trayvon Martin?" * Economics reporter/theater reviewer maps the gap between audiences' and critics' movie opinions. * How a 6.4-acre
When a vacation rental doesn’t live up to expectations, when that “charming Montauk cabin” turns out to be a shed, one family’s solution is passive-aggressive guestbook commentary.
* The NSA has violated privacy rules or overstepped its authority thousands of times every year since 2008, when its powers were broadened. * A report from the National Hobo Convention. * Next weekend in Asbury Park, a movie theater will screen classic noir and discuss its influence on Springsteen. * White Americans believe
* [PTSD] is not a barrier to being redeployed. Not when the Army needs its most experienced soldiers to wrap up the war. * The FCC's Mignon Clyburn on how cheaper prison phone calls will strengthen families and help legal representation. * From 1975, Warren Buffett makes the case against playing
Irresistible watercolors of mouthy cowboys, automobile wrecks, boxing matches, rodeo clowns, and rock bands.
* Presidents deserve their vacations, but it's too bad they're always taken behind the gates of wealthy friends. * When you consider the alternatives, you are led, as Obama was, to the logic of the drone. * Now that Title X has arrived in sports, student captains of high
* Army blocks entrances to Tahrir Square while Cairo prepares for Muslim Brotherhood's "march of anger." * The Egyptian military did what we explicitly told them not to do. How can we still pretend that this aid is giving us influence? * Round-up of the week in wacky right-wing
Parsing the noun and verb of “interview.”
* Growing up with stop-and-frisk. * Future-minded Republicans avoid talking about global warming—but most of the party can't stop denying. * Since 2011, the cost of raising a child for 17 years has risen 2.6%, to $241,080. * After 22 years of service, Doctors Without Borders pulls out of
* Border dispute between India and China diffused with a peaceful exchange of beer and sugar dumplings. * Camel milk, long overshadowed by "Western" cow's milk, regains popularity in coffee shops and bars across the United Arab Emirates. * Muslim Brotherhood calls for new protests in Egypt after security
Egypt’s transition to a new military-backed government after the ouster of Mohammed Morsi took a violent turn this week after several hundred supporters of ousted president Mohammed Morsi were killed during an assault on two protest camps by Egyptian security forces. In what must be the understatement of the
* Meet Kathy Hawken, pro-choice Republican. * North Carolina residents and national watches see doom for state's "middle way" of politics. * Poking holes in a TV show's explanation of sharks' sensitivity to electric fields. * Norwegian prime minister's "daring" political maneuver—posing
* Drones that can crawl inside sewer pipes could be used to provide emergency aid to disaster victims. * Columbine principal retires after honoring pledge to work until kindergardeners at the time of the 1999 tragedy graduated high school. * Police, armed burglars endure five-hour standoff after the latter failed to steal quiche
Good old Earth was nearly destroyed, almost extinguished, and threatened with slaughter every hour in cinemas this summer. And yet, here we are. Our film critics pinpoint the collapse of the apocalypse genre.
The city of New York employs nearly half a million citizens, more than any other municipality in the country. We decided to speak with some of those employees about their work and what it takes to keep the biggest city in America running. A train operator—name withheld—with the
* As the globe warms, fossil beaches and coral reefs may hold clues as to how fast and by how much our sea levels will rise. * Western-style..."tasteless" foods will never catch on in Central Asia, but the opportunities for fusion and innovation are limitless. * At a beef industry
* Big pictures of war-torn Syria, now split into three regions. * Federal judges throws out discrimination claims against Paula Deen, but the sexual harassment component of the suit remains. * Report: Redskins' name only offensive if you think about what it means. * As the PED scandal threatens to destroy many players,
Think baseball today is rotten from drugs and punks? A century ago, things weren’t much better. A brief history of baseball's dark traditions—cheating, substance abuse, obscenity, violence—and the colorful players who brought them to life.
* Scientists recreate four-billion-year-old proteins—though there's no way of knowing how accurate they are. * Family farms aren't exactly disappearing—like industrial farms, they're just exploding in size. * A new paper posits a formula to determine whether a country's livestock antibiotic use is
* Idaho grocery chain WinCo called WalMart's "worst nightmare" because it provides health-care plans and pensions to most employees. * Economist challenges conventional wisdom about pregnancy. * Economists say with sad certainty that yes, first-born girls do cause divorce. * Photo essay from a week in the life of a
* China’s big airports have the worst delays in the world, with only 18% of flights from Beijing departing on time. * North Carolina has one of the U.S.'s highest unemployment rates, but its lawmakers are more worried about banning Sharia law. * Email service reportedly used by Snowden
At one school, the popular girls were called the “chicken patties,” but the jocks were just the “jocks.” How teenage crowds get named.
* Poll shows 40% of white and 25% of non-white Americans only have friends within their own race. * Oprah Winfrey informed she can't afford Switzerland's more expensive handbags. * Business owners in Russia have a better chance of ending up in the penal colony system than common burglars
It’s been an interesting couple of weeks on the transit beat. A shark turned up on the N train. A ride on the Q inspired an an epic Craigslist “Missed Connection.” Workers in London discovered 400 skeletons in a 17th-century mass grave under Liverpool Street Station—not the only
* Research around H5N1 was cloaked in secrecy, now scientists propose more transparent—and more dangerous—H7N9 studies. * Mention a foreigner under surveillance in an email or text and the NSA is going to be tracking you. * Gupta: "Why I changed my mind on weed." * As e-cigarettes catch on,
* Why the U.S. lost Yemen to al Qaeda: "Faulty assumptions and a mistaken focus paired with a resilient, adaptive enemy." * The current wave of U.S. drone strikes in Yemen could be creating more enemies than they're killing. * This is the greatest Craigslist Missed Connection
A literary gumshoe visits St. Petersburg to track down the so-called "ninja of Russian verse," Elena Shvarts, who died in 2010 leaving almost nothing behind.
* Chinese scientists show bird flu has spread among people and is indeed contagious, "although only slightly." * Small-town police officer commended for insisting to call a child-on-child shooting "negligent," not "accidental." * Drill music brings fame to young rappers while Chicago becomes the murder capital; each
Facts should be the oxygen of journalism.
Originating on the South Side, drill music has attracted major labels to Chicago in search of young rappers—as gang violence turns the city into the murder capital. Each has everything to do with the other.
* Mugabe-appointed men charged with illegally lobbying to overturn U.S. economic sanctions against Zimbabwe. * Officials in Bahrain use fake Twitter accounts to track down IP addresses and punish critics of Hamad regime. * Finished dinner plates of India's growing elite. * Rahul Ghandi's alleged claim that "poverty
* In deeply red states like Missouri, looking for the new health insurance marketplaces "is like searching for a unicorn." * Beer's lead over wine in America has slipped by 20 percentage points since the early 1990s. * Ecologists using Hawaiian restaurant menus reconstruct long-term changes in local marine
Some of the best TV shows these days, whether we’re watching them on television sets or online, are being compared to novels—and even sonnets. A chat with some of the leading thinkers in TV writing to find out what comes next.
* After al Qaeda threat leads to dozens of U.S. embassies being closed, officials explain fears of liquid bombs and "Frankenbombers." * New research finds deep cooperation between Hollywood studio bosses and Nazi officials. * I feel alienated by [Don Lemon's] comments because they translate into a form
* Sharia committee bans croissants for their shape, which has been said to celebrate European victory over Muslims. * Successful scientific PR is not necessarily antithetical to valid science, but there's good evidence of a negative correlation. * Why serial tardiness is ruining your life—and how to turn yourself around.
* Wendy Davis succeeded against endemic misogyny to make her voice heard in the male-dominated Texas Capitol. * Though women are represented at the state level, just one woman, sworn in on Friday, holds office in the entire LA government. * If we cannot face the root issue—that we let people die
Square paintings that take the smallest things—a gas station’s roof, a swing set’s leg—and find unease in the most cheerful of circumstances.
* Beijing scalpers dominate Apple Genius Bar appointments, then sell appointments online. * Austerity be damned, most Europeans refuse to work through their plentiful, sacred holidays. * MetaFilter collects Queen Elizabeth's nuclear war speech and other undelivered speeches. * Because Breaking Bad is so probing about morality, the finale also raises the
* Putin has used Snowden's plight...to pose as a human rights defender and to cast the Obama administration as disingenuous. * A Soviet-era re-enactment bunker, the former home of Pablo Escobar, and other bizarre amusement parks. * Assad's Instagram provides a whitewashed, propagandized look inside Syria's
Generation X has always been able to fashion its own best outcome. Now it’s time to take that DIY attitude and fix the nation. Because you know who really won the American Revolution? That’s right: Slackers.
On Wednesday Russia granted NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden asylum for a year, while earlier this week a military court found WikiLeaks source Bradley Manning not guilty of aiding the enemy, though guilty of a slew of lesser charges. Coincidentally, I also finally got around to watching the BBC’s enjoyable
Journalists must go further in search of the full story.
* Commerce Department’s gross domestic product revisions say the Great Recession wasn't so bad. * Assessment of the state of the male contraceptive pill: for both scientific and social reasons, there's no bright future ahead. * Winners from climate change include brain-eating parasites that flourish in America'
In line at the grocery store, the economics of online writing.
* Zimbabwe's prime minister Tsvangirai calls election a "huge farce," with elaborate vote-rigging by Mugabe. * Reporters struggle to describe bustling neighborhood completely destroyed by Assad in Syria's third-largest city, Homs. * Portraits of possessionless, religious nomads in India and Nepal. * Occupy-style protests, underwritten by the Service
* New Snowden documents show NSA program "XKeyscore" collects nearly everything people do on the internet, with "real-time" interception. * Round-up of journalists' and politicians' reactions to the Manning verdict. * Dos and don'ts of escalator etiquette, where "leisure"-oriented commuters steal time
Pope Francis's recent remark that he would not judge gay priests was a revolutionary moment for the church—a moment, in fact, worth twerking into verse.
* A fair election will find Mugabe pushed out of power; only Africa's other leaders can make that happen. * Assessment of what America would look like, based on internal documents and interviews with former aides, 200 days into Mitt Romney's first term. * Toyota donates efficiency in lieu
The city of New York employs nearly half a million citizens, more than any other municipality in the country. We decided to speak with some of those employees about their work and what it takes to keep the biggest city in America running. A first-grade teacher at a public elementary
* There have been few openly gay ambassadors—and that's absolutely about to change. * For the past 10 weeks, oil has been leaking into Alberta—no one's saying how much and no one knows how to stop it. * "Medical marijuana advocates become unlikely opponents to pot
* Life after whistleblowing. * Our nation, divided in its Amazon reviews of Reza Aslan's Zealot: more than 100 five-star and one-star ratings. * See also: One-star Amazon reviews of the best modern novels. * Paris Chamber of Commerce launches "Do You Speak Touriste?" program to help French locals be
In the late 1870s, baseball was at risk of dying out before it even got started, strangled by a teetotaling, law-abiding, church-going new league. Then a German saloonkeeper in St. Louis got involved.
* The conviction of Manning, in other words, would also be a conviction of Assange. * The rape-pregnancy myth started as a mythical Nazi experiment. * To gather data in dangerous, hard-to-reach places—e.g., volcanoes—cheap, disposable drones are one answer. * As corporations snatch up new top-level domains, Chrysler assures Indians no
* Armed thief enters French Riviera hotel, makes off with an estimated $50 million in jewelry. * The biggest jewelry heists in the last 10 years. * The real story about Snowden's revelations is that you can't trust an American cloud. * Every mistake by a major news organization was
A new book, “Only in Burundi,” provides a candid look into the post-conflict, everyday life of Burundians, from nuns to the president.
* Halliburton to plead guilty to destroying test results following the Deepwater disaster. * Global warming and overfishing are driving some lobsters to cannibalism. * Scientists discover dwindling bee populations are not necessarily due to insecticides, but a less solvable problem: fungicides. * Study finds a full moon negatively affects sleep quality. * The most
* Significant gender gaps found globally in public opinion about America's use of drones. * Security for the Pope's visit to Brazil said to cost the country $52 million. * Remembering New York's only black millionaire in the mid-19th century, Jeremiah G. Hamilton, now overlooked by historians.
The media focus on Britain’s Royal Uterus this week was a valuable reminder of how tiresome fame can be, and how detached from extraordinariness it can be. Kate and Wills seem like perfectly nice people, but that was an awful lot of fanfare for a young couple who had
What Watertown teaches us about sourcing in journalism.
* A brief history of England's King Georges. * Jane Austen to replace Charles Darwin on UK's £10 note. * Irish justice minister calls his country's refusal to permit abortions for rape, incest, and fetal abnormalities "unacceptable cruelty." * Anthony Weiner's letter to his
* Nearly 80% of previously arrested burglars, surveyed in 2011, said info drawn from social media helps thieves plan jobs. * Private U.S. companies invest nearly twice as much as those listed on the stock market. * Geneva offers extremely secure giant safe for wealthy art patrons' collections. * China says no
* Arctic forests are on fire now more than at any point in the past 10,000 years. * Dodger Stadium now serves beer with frozen foam that acts as an insulating lid. * From 2010, Sloane Crosley on sexting. * USC says college student was not raped because her alleged assailant did not
The recent ho-hum reaction to the purchase and ensuing buyback of Frommer’s obscures one key fact: Guidebooks are creators of social change. A defense of their place in the canon.
* White House defends NSA's data-collection programs prior to House's vote today on their legality. * Human rights organization launches poster campaign to find surviving Nazis in Germany. * Comprehensive list of Florida's other "stand your ground" cases. * Florida man, 99 years old, still working
* CNN on the royal baby: Kate is "brilliant" for having a boy and "really ticked all the boxes" in doing so. * London mayor: Stop fretting about Germany's reunification—instead, copy it. * Like Luke Skywalker was when I was seven, Brian Eno is a role
* Hundreds of inmates—including senior al Qaeda—escape Abu Ghraib during "military-style assault" against guards. * NSA general says reports of the agency's snooping has been greatly exaggerated and is causing sources to dry up. * Why I love writing code for journalism. * In 2011, 12,300 children
Much to the chagrin of his former 25-year-old self, a man in his forties—with no singing experience outside the shower—joins the village chorus. Terror, learning, and intense joy, all while making Brian Eno proud.
* UK now requires ISPs to automatically block pornography, unless subscribers request otherwise. * Tumblr bans more search terms to curb porn on its iPhone app. * Pakistan struggles with polio epidemic, but anger over drones hampers prevention efforts. * The race speech Obama didn't make: Detroit's bankruptcy is the
In the instance of slipping, there’s a moment of stillness just before you lose control. Selections from 10 years of a falling man’s self-portraits.
* A sixth college football player joins the lawsuit against using their likenesses in video games without compensation. * The Hudson River is filled with raw sewage and is teeming with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. * An oral history of Maxwell's. * Economists find former smokers earn more than smokers or those who have
* How the new league of Texas Democrats could return their party to power. * On behalf of New York, Louis Black gives Texas the middle finger. * An interactive guide to the big ideas and biggest blunders of New York's mob of mayoral candidates. * Joe Biden—who might be the
The last few weeks before a vacation are the worst, especially if you haven’t taken a break in a while, and more especially when you’ve been going to work in weather that seems to encourage everything but work. Maybe the heat is making you crazy, or it’s
Daily life can wear you down when your freshman-year roommates are gray-haired and flirting with dementia. Then again, the best lessons may come that way.
* Statistics show that for Syria's children, there is no school, no play, no family life—no childhood. * Arab League throws support behind Kerry's plan to restart Israeli-Palestinian peace talks—the first in two years. * Social-media powerhouse Skittles goes silent after George Zimmerman verdict. * Gawker and its
The best way to find our way through the news is to understand how it’s made.
* Taliban official writes letter to Malala Yousafzai to apologize not for shooting her, but for not warning her of their plans. * A man with Asperger's who loves the MTA has been arrested 29 times for impersonating its employees. * Shyness is a part of being human. The world would
* Across the border from McAllen, Texas, Mexican authorities rescue 81 kidnapped migrants; last month, 165 were freed in a similar case. * Huong is among millions of Vietnamese who hold an estimated 300 tons to 400 tons of bullion...valued at as much as $19 billion at domestic prices. * An elastic,
A reporter spends a season trailing one of London's most infamous soccer clubs while its soul is rebuilt from scratch. A cautionary tale—for New Yorkers, especially—of super fans, gonzo money, and the doctrine that is "organic football."
* Neo-Nazi black-metal musician arrested in southwestern France on charges of plotting a massacre. * How the media is ignoring health complications and hyping the belief an abortion ban after 20 weeks is "reasonable." * Related: "It's a rare condition, even more rare to have made it to
{image-4} Reviewers of Chuck Klosterman’s I Wear The Black Hat: Grappling with Villains (Real and Imagined) all like to relate Klosterman’s theory of Star Wars. The theory goes like this: For male fans, the character they identify with most in childhood is the innocent Luke Skywalker; in adolescence
* New video finds Pussy Riot claiming Putin and cronies have looted billions of dollars of Russia's oil wealth. * Cuba admits being behind a stash of weapons found on board a North Korean ship seized in the Panama Canal. * Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, in response to Zimmerman'
* What happens when we catch Snowden. * Making sense of China's GDP growth: Thanks to Wikileaks, we can guess the numbers are artificial. * Most fake negative reviews of products on the web are written by devoted customers who want to vent. * A catalog of natural and man-made sinkholes. * Anti-immigration
* George Zimmerman faces at least three more trials in the death of Trayvon Martin—but it's likely he won't lose any of them. * Abortion is unlike any other issue: Both sides have equal support and face their share of internal challenges * Let's abolish the
Don’t let the flying matzoh balls confuse you. A visit from a dead parent is serious business—a second chance for love, and for forgiveness.
* Trials like this one can never...act as moral surrogates to resolve the national debates they trigger. * David Simon takes to his blog after the George Zimmerman verdict. * Must-read: Louis Menand on voting rights and the Southern way of life. * Vallejo, Calif., is the most diverse city in the U.
* Cord Jefferson on the Zimmerman trial. * The most damning element here is not that George Zimmerman was found not guilty: it’s the bitter knowledge that Trayvon Martin was found guilty. * As abortion laws tighten in Texas, the popularity of "abortion pills" from Mexico may increase. * From September,
A former criminologist focuses on the lighter side of Los Angeles. Oil paintings of the city’s shops, streets, and people, with a particular focus on a single bright pink store.
* Why black colleges might sue the Obama administration: The rhetoric and the policies don't always match. * Toshi Seeger, who married Pete nearly 70 years ago, died this week at 91. * PBS's Off Book explores the question of what happens to human brains in a world of
* Russia's Federal Guard Service places large order for typewriters to steer clear of digital eavesdropping. * The Arab Spring will take decades to succeed; Egypt's coup is no death knell. * On Marie Colvin, the difficulty of reporting in Syria, and why Sebastian Junger quit the war-news beat.
I have a hard time committing to a book on the beach—mostly because I can’t seem to stay awake for more than 20 minutes at a time when I’m lying next to a large body of water. So summer vacation, for me, means time to catch up
* Muslim Brotherhood issues a statement pledging to continue its "peaceful" resistance to the army's removal of Morsi. * Paul Ryan makes the case for an “economic-based immigration system”—i.e., sensible immigration reform. * See also: "The re-emergence of George W. Bush." * Round-up of photos of
Boxing belongs to the young. For an off-and-on wannabe, back in the ring and facing down The Chainsaw, the stakes are higher than they’ll ever be.
* Approximately 29,000 prisoners join hunger strike in California to protest system conditions. * The dream of eliminating infectious disease—e.g., MERS, SARS, AIDS—is dead. * Egypt's political cartoons increasingly stifled. * Police report shows there are now more elderly shoplifters than teenaged ones in Tokyo. * World's
How to read the news.
* Egyptian photographer Ahmed Samir Assem films the gunman who ended his life. * Stop watching CNN. * Iceberg the size of Manhattan breaks from Antarctica's Pine Island glacier. * Cross-sections of bullets reveal the intricacies of modern munitions. * Nobody's managed to adequately remove the swastika-shaped tree formation planted in
* Japan's Prime Minister Abe endorses Fukishima-grown rice as a part of his "not particularly exciting" campaign. * At least 106 of 166 prisoners at the Guantanamo Bay detention center now believed to be on hunger strike. * Mos Def's decision to be filmed while being nasally
The Hours follows a single day in the lives of three women—the author Virginia Woolf; Laura Brown, a pregnant stay-at-home mom living in a California suburb in the 1950s; and Clarissa Vaughan, a book editor in modern-day New York City. There is a fourth character, Laura’s son, Richard,
* Lunar scientists believe Earth once had two moons that became one after a collision. * The area of the brain that helps you decide what to share on social media is called the "temporo-parietal junction." * As U.S. demographics shift, food manufacturers try and keep up with changing tastes.
New York's new bicycle-share program is a big success. Since May, bikers have taken 646,000 trips. But the initiative has also caused many rational people to explode with rage. Why? Because humans are hardwired to hate cheaters.
* U.S. federal judge says force-feeding Gitmo protesters appear to be illegal, but she can't stop it. * In protest of force-feeding Gitmo prisoners, Mos Def volunteers to be force-fed. * S&P said that reasonable investors would know its assurances of independence were just marketing. * Gladwell: Defense analyst
* For schools that choose to arm their employees, insurance carriers are raising premiums or refusing to provide coverage. * From 2011 to four days ago, a timeline of Egypt's transition from Mubarak to Morsi. * There is a war on Wikipedia over naming Egypt's "coup," since
* France, too, has a PRISM that spies on all its citizens and stores their online data. * For Fred Perry, until yesterday the last Brit to win Wimbledon, it was a very different reception. * For years he was relegated to the fourth man: How Andy Murray became great. * Now it'
Foliage bursting into living rooms. Houses floating in trees. Dynamic paintings of how natural and built spaces invade one another.
* Economist offers one-page solution to climate change: Tax fossil fuels in proportion to the amount of carbon they release. * Physics inquiry into whether or not Superman could punch someone into space. * PayPal determined to "help make universal space payments a reality." * Amazon reviews pay tribute to the shoes
Colds and flus happen—but as pop stars, stage actors, and athletes know all too well, that's rarely enough of a reason to call in sick. How they cope when the show must go on.
* Senate approves contentious bipartisan effort to overhaul immigration laws, but the Republican-controlled House calls it bunk. * See also: Frontline documentary, Rape in the Fields, about rapes of immigrant women. * In case you were wondering: 210 reasons for the decline of the Roman Empire. * Biomechanical basis discovered for why humans can
It was probably a coincidence that the Supreme Court handed down its landmark decisions on two same-sex marriage cases just days before the anniversary of the Stonewall riots, but it was a nice touch. Everything I might have wanted to say about it has already been said better by others,
* New York prosecutor, after lengthy re-investigation, says capturing the Friedmans was the right thing to do. * Praise for attorney and activist Mary Bonauto, mastermind of the legal strategy that eventually led to DOMA’s collapse. * Michelle Bachmann responds to DOMA in manner suggesting she endorses marriage between one man and
* Ex-Texas warden reflects after 140 executions. * Redskins receiver Donté Stallworth takes to Twitter to defend SCOTUS rulings against DOMA and Prop 8. * The reason you keep seeing more self-checkout lines is because that's how you're going to be buying things at stores now. * The new state
A special Fourth of July edition of our series where an editor randomly calls people in small towns around America to see what’s happening.
* The war in Afghanistan is now mostly concerned with hostility between India and Pakistan. * India performs 37% of the world's female sterilizations; patients are paid $10 and misinformed of risk. * Marvel combines chick-lit with comics and yields The She-Hulk Diaries, a diary-format tale of a super-strong, super-green heroine.
For a hopeful magazine editor stuck in the wrong career, when Playgirl comes a-calling, it looks like the answer to her prayers—but not everything is as it seems. An excerpt from the new memoir “How to Be a Playgirl.”
* Advocates say Republicans across the U.S., ignoring more pressing issues, have launched “a new war on women.” * Due to last-minute chaos, Republicans unable to pass a bill that would have closed nearly every abortion clinic in Texas. * Data shows Southern whites display "more racial antagonism and ideological conservatism&
* Coates: Why Paula Deen's accidental racism matters, and why her birthplace matters. * Q&A with the creator of the Kickstarter "seduction guide." * The IRS's inappropriate screening also included liberal groups. * Reviewing Mad Men's season finale, Paul Ford recalls his days as
* In the U.S. military, 53 percent of sexual assaults involve attacks on men, mostly by other men. * Among American voters, 56% say a bear would win in a fight between a bear and a shark. * Berlusconi, in court again, has faced 105 probes and trials, 2,500 court hearings,
* Humans can't compete with machines, and other reasons the quality of life has stagnated in Brazil and elsewhere. * Expect Miami to be underwater within the next century; before then, expect mayhem. * Monk responds to appearing on Time's Asia cover with the headline "The Face of
* Pyongyang: The U.S. National Security Agency's wanton violation of rights of Americans was disclosed. * Why metadata can be more damaging than our conversations: It reveals connections that we might prefer to hide. * You don't have to like Snowden. * U.S. seemingly unaware of irony in
Portraits of a boy who was born without eyes, from one of the 21 “new and emerging photographers” selected this year by Lens Culture.
* Brazilian president holds emergency cabinet meeting after more than a million people join nationwide protests. * Fun facts learned from Snowden. * California's booming marijuana business endangers redwood forests and ecosystems much like industrial logging. * Angela Merkel discovers the "new territory" of the internet, inspiring a meme. * German
There’s a new Spider-Man movie in the works, but it’s not the one you're expecting. Thanks to the magic of crowd-funding, it could be the summer blockbuster nobody sees.
* List of countries forbidding the wearing of masks—United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia—now includes Canada. * Obama establishes war cabinet in a spare office suite to secure passage of immigration reform. * U.S. charges two New Yorkers with building a death ray aimed at killing Israel's enemies.
When a cocktail is born, it receives a name. How it’s christened has as much to do with the drink’s lineage as the bartender’s mood—and sometimes, how it makes you feel after you’ve finished it.
* U.S. releases list of 46 "indefinite detainees" at Guantanamo, supposedly too dangerous to release. * Economics theory ties the Great Stagnation to two big results of World War II: industrial capacity, and a lot of dead men. * Researchers make quantum computing more stable; information that formerly lived for
* Diplomats scurry to mollify Karzai over U.S.-Taliban talks after the Taliban portrayed itself as a government in exile. * Report gives Russia lowest grade for failing to address human trafficking; government doesn't even investigate reported abuses. * Police stop 35,000 protesters from entering a stadium in Brazil,
* A step-by-step guide on how to use metadata to catch a terrorist. * "Priming" techniques can work, but imagining a professor doesn't mean you'll win at Trivial Pursuit. * An engineering breakthrough results in an elevator that raises twice as high as current models. * Explorers believe
There’s nothing about the cream linen suit Jake Gittes wears in the opening scenes of Chinatown that suggests he’s a private eye. It’s 1937 Los Angeles, and he’s showing graphic photos of a couple having sex in the woods to a distraught husband, but Gittes is
* Journalist Michael Hastings, who ended Gen. McChrystal's career with a revelatory 2010 profile, dies at 33. * Missing Michael Hastings. * Advice from Hastings to young reporters: "When writing for a mass audience, put a fact in every sentence." * Collected articles by Michael Hastings. * A survey finds today&
Micro-living is no longer just for the very poor and the very bohemian. But how much space do we really deserve? Tracking down the minimum square-footage below which no one should be forced to endure.
* Owners of 7-Eleven franchises in New York and Virginia charged with running a "modern day plantation system." * See also: Photographs of prisons that have been converted into stylish hotels. * Tips for arming rebels. * Report from inside the world of very expensive, "black-ops" online reputation management. * Interesting
* After leaking more files, Snowden seems to have plenty more to give, and may continue pegging releases to news events. * Cosmopolitan magazine asks Snowden what message he'd like to leak to his girlfriend. * Seventy percent of America’s intelligence budget now goes to private contractors; half a million
* China calls speculation that Snowden spied for Beijing "completely groundless." * Russia says it won't allow no-fly zones over Syria, calls such sanctions a disrespect of international law. * The U.S. puts more children and teens in detention than any other developed nation—research shows it'
* Brief profiles of victims from this weekend's gun violence in Chicago, which left seven dead and 41 wounded. * More violent clashes in Istanbul; Erdogan talks of foreign conspiracy, blaming the BBC and CNN. * If you are Hawaiian, how do you seduce Barack Obama? Do you stroke his heart
* Crimes against women are more common in New Delhi than four of India's other metropolises combined. * Study suggests that, on an evolutionary level, menopause was caused by men's preference for younger women. * In a Father's Day protest, man defaces portrait of Queen Elizabeth in
I’ve spent much of the past week and a half stuck in much-worse-than-usual traffic, and thinking about Kevin Fanning’s pitch-perfect meditation on commuting: How the Dead Live. “Thinking about the clock of my life ticking away every day while I’m sitting there, just waiting to be somewhere
* Supreme court rules 9-0 that human genes cannot be patented, but allows that DNA created in the lab may be protected under patent laws. * Profile of how Gen. Keith Alexander, militant about secrecy, has transformed the NSA into an aggressive power. * Nigeria has 1,042 deaths a year for every
* Post-Manning and mid-Snowden, the Pentagon looks for new methods to detect suspicious behavior within its ranks. * Terrific profile of KYAnonymous, aka Deric Lostutter, the Anonymous member who declared war on Steubenville. * North Korea begins live streaming of approved programming to its Facebook page. * From July 22, 1941, the only surviving
* Caffeine withdrawal now registered as a mental health disorder, though medical professionals argue over the classification. * Excellent study done of women turned away from abortion clinics. * Governor Sam Brownback has turned Kansas into "an ultraconservative utopia" for Tea-Party policies. * Also by Binelli: Michigan's "Crack Rock
* White House drops legal battle to keep age restrictions on the Plan B One-Step morning-after pill. * Ai Weiwei: NSA surveillance makes the U.S. resemble China, where a lack of privacy stifles creativity and individualism. * Nicaragua moves forward on a vague but seemingly decisive plan to build a canal holding
As we progress from smartphones to smart toasters, our things are becoming increasingly connected. Soon they'll be on Facebook alongside us. From there, it's only a few steps to tactful beds.
* Reuters poll finds most respondents are OK with the NSA's domestic spying tactics. * Friedersdorf: History shows that if we stop opposing a surveillance state, we'll live in one. * How Google uses secure FTP to provide user information—indirectly—to PRISM. * A web dump of everything about
* Assertive extremists have joined the rebel ranks in Syria, trapping many Syrians in a vise. * Blair: There is a problem within Islam, and we have to put it on the table and be honest about it. * Video footage shows the formation of a gigantic rotating supercell. * Heatmap of the areas
* In China, a man-on-the-street take on the NSA leak: "If you're not monitoring people, they can say whatever they want." * Why Snowden shouldn't have gone to Hong Kong: Unlike China, it has an extradition arrangement with the U.S. * Toobin: Snowden is a "
Although the jingle-belled codpieces of the 1540s and the disco suits of the 1970s were something special, my vote for the silliest decade in Western men’s fashion is the 1660s. It was an age of voluminous pirate shirts, elaborate, waist-length wigs, high-heeled shoes, enormous feathered hats, and yard upon
* It's too early to lionize Snowden. * He's in a better position than if he had committed murder, but [the legal strategy] is not necessarily a winner for him. * Tenants ousted from East Village building can purchase apartments for $10 in the high-rise that will take its
* All about Edward Snowden, the NSA whistleblower who expects never to see his $200K salary or house in Hawaii ever again. * An embattled British TV host took the photo used in the PRISM logo. * Andy Baio finds examples of all the ways state and federal government overuse the "PRISM&
Experiencing a piece of art can be transporting, but the act of explaining it to someone else is an art form in itself. No wonder that docents, professors, even patrons get caught up in the act.
* Anonymous leaks NSA documents, including Defense Dept.'s plan for "controlling the internet." * Today's jobs report contains mixed messages—a hint at the harm being done by sequestration. * Archaeologists unearth an escape tunnel at the Sobibor death camp in Poland. * A theory of airport security:
A New York City cop was sitting alone in his apartment. He was watching the new season of Arrested Development, which he had been very excited about. After years of saying “I hope they make an Arrested Development movie or perhaps another season of the show!” on his Twitter and
Farming chickens takes care and concentration, and a deal with the birds: We give you a life of safety and comfort, and you die for our food. Until a murdering predator arrives and gives lie to the vow.
* NYT on Obama's terrorism justification: "The administration has now lost all credibility on this issue." * This is the second story in the past twenty-four hours with deeply troubling constitutional and privacy implications. * What's PalTalk? Since at least 2009, it's been the video-chatting
A few weeks after the Obama administration was thumped for subpoenaing Associated Press phone records and monitoring the communications of Fox News reporter James Rosen, word arrived from the Guardian that the administration executed an unusually broad FISA warrant for Verizon call metadata (and grudging props to the Brits for
* White House defends phone snooping as "a critical tool in protecting the nation from terrorist threats." * Tumblr of the Day: "Laid Off From the Sun-Times." * Boston Marathon spectators file lawsuit against New York Post for portraying them as bombing suspects. * A new study shows that for
* Right now, the NSA is monitoring phone records of Verizon customers—"regardless of whether they are suspected of any wrongdoing." * After using the world of tomorrow to keep Americans hopeful during WWII, government and industry found ways to dash those dreams. * Researchers successfully guide a thought-controlled helicopter through
* Michelle Obama—unlike her husband—doesn't suffer hecklers kindly. * Social media is essential to contemporary civil unrest—in Turkey, Vine is the medium of choice. * According to a new poll, most black Americans feel that, over the past decade, their lives have improved. * Only two million of the
* Facing increasing numbers of protesters arrested on "Moral Mondays," North Carolina governor calls civil disobedience "unacceptable." * Ohio State University president retires after saying of Notre Dame, "You just can't trust those damn Catholics on a Thursday or a Friday." * Lords offer 18
I Am Love is a modern melodrama tracing how Emma Recchi, the Russian wife of a fabulously wealthy Italian industrialist, falls out of love with her husband and in love with a chef who is one of her adult son’s best friends. The film is vaguely set in the
* If we stopped chopping down so many trees, we'd put a dent in one of our largest sources of greenhouse gases. * Supreme Court complicates Fourth Amendment rights by ruling police can collect DNA from individuals without convictions. * In search of "sacred music," John Davidson retraces his
* Black Americans were nearly four times as likely than whites to be arrested on charges of marijuana possession in 2010. * Despite last weekend's shooting surge in New York, the city is still experiencing a 23% drop in gun victims over this time last year. * New York City in
A man follows his grandparents’ trek to Morocco—where the Alaouite Dynasty has ruled since 1666—to search for so-called “sacred music” amid a feedback loop of riots, arrests, and the promise of miracles.
* The number of women senators has grown by 65% in the past decade, as has their influence—seven years ago, military sexual assault was ignored. * In Sweden, where college is free but little else is, students still rack up debt. * In World War II, German soldiers relied on meth to
If like most of our readers, you read The Morning News by heading straight to our homepage, then you’ve probably noticed a few changes around here over the past couple of weeks. And if like many of our readers, you read TMN on your mobile device, then the site
Selections from Sam Stephenson’s multi-artist project documenting a season with the Durham Bulls, the North Carolina AAA baseball team that inspired the film “Bull Durham,” which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.
* The divide between East and West Berlin is still visible from space—because of different lightbulbs. * By the end of 2012, American families had recouped less than half of what they lost in the economic crash. * The past 33 years of news, as told in CNN clips. * Southern Baptists plan
* NYU grad student creates API that enables the public to analyze drone-strike data from as far back as 2002. * A liberal infiltrates Fox News. * A group of archaeologists says Archaeopteryx should now be considered a bird, rather than a birdlike dinosaur. * To facilitate more efficient walking for biped robots, researchers
* New report suggests widespread use of human trafficking in Thailand's fishing industry, a major supplier for the U.S. * Unemployment rate in the eurozone reached new record high of 12.2% in April, with 19.38 million people out of work. * Children who accidentally digested medical marijuana begin
At least one of three heavily timber-producing counties in Oregon last week rejected property tax increases to pay for law enforcement services that had previously been funded by federal timber subsidies. Without the levies, those counties had to lay off 80 percent of their police forces and only offer law
* Facebook cofounder, fed up with nonprofits, advocates for new system of giving cash directly to the poor. * Internet trends report shows 81% of users of the top 10 websites live outside the United States and share far more online. * Most of young doctors' working time is indirectly related to
As New York City changes, so do its trains; our worries about life above and below ground move hand in hand. So which came first, the jitters or the subway?
* John McCain is pretty sure we can identify the "good guys" in the Syrian conflict after his secret visit to the country this week. * McCain's office says the senator was unaware he photo-opped with Syrian kidnappers and the story may have been planted by Assad supporters.
Try to figure out what the below map means using only clues contained within the map—the relationships between color-coded regions, say, or perhaps word clues. Anything you can detect, really, is fair game. If you’re stuck, here’s a clue. The answer is linked after the map. {image-1}
* Interviews with Syrians who say they've witnessed atrocities. * Solar industry faces quality concerns. * China is building a city in Belarus as a manufacturing gateway between Russia and the EU. * With North America set to dominate the world's energy production by 2020, Saudi Arabia must respond carefully
* After 70 years, U.S. recognizes army volunteers who fought in Alaska during World War II as veterans. * Carbon dating tests show mislabeled Torah in Bologna is actually 850 years old—possibly the world's oldest. * Disturbing treatise from 1543 reveals Martin Luther as an anti-Semite whose beliefs propagated
Should the cicadas arrive just in time for your wedding—biblical, unexpected, and yet, routine as clockwork—there’s nothing to do but carry on with the ceremony. Come hell or, in fact, high water.
{image-1} While The King and I’s Anna never dropped a single bead of sweat or snagged a single thread while negotiating the palace of Siam, The Last of the Mohicans’ Cora and Alice Munro’s dresses get torn to shreds as the sisters hack through the forests and scrabble
* Texas slashes student testing after parents revolt despite starting the movement 30 years ago. * Houston's Astrodome is dated and dusty, ugly to some eyes, but it is also irreplaceable. * Tumblr of great art in ugly rooms. * Archeologists in Mexico discover 4,926 cave paintings by nomadic peoples who
Your opponents have something to prove, certain wishes they want fulfilled. Also, they really hope their knees don’t blow out before halftime. Welcome to over-40s soccer.
* Fifty years ago, a mob attacked students and teachers who were protesting a Mississippi Woolworth's whites-only lunch counter. * Sweden wracked by rioting, with some Stockholm neighborhoods shut down even to ambulances. * Mystery solved: Secretary of State John Kerry really ate a turkey shwarma in Ramallah. * Scientists say war
* NOAA predicts active hurricane season, with up to double the typical number of major storms. * Praise, disappointment over Boy Scouts' decision to admit openly gay Scouts. * Overexposure to fluoride carries health risks—but not due to it being an unnatural industrial chemical. * Suicide rates are rising, but there is
Seeking respite from a life lived in war zones—too many rebel factions, too many gunshots, too many backfiring motorcycles that sounded like gunshots—a family discovers temporary shelter in the outer edges of New York City. And then, the deluge.
* There is no light at the end of the tunnel for drone strikes...and other counterterrorism operations after 12 years of a global war. * Anti-Islam backlash grows in Britain after Woolwich machete attack. * UCLA surgeons broadcast brain surgery over social media. * Doctors use 3D printing to create a new airway
Seeing the tornado damage in Oklahoma this week reminded me of the aftermath of a thousand-year flood that struck my city three years ago. My husband and I had three sandbags, which was ridiculous. What piece of our house were we going to save with three sandbags? (We laid them
* In 2011, the NYPD made more stops of young black men than the total number of young black men in New York City. * Data shows white people stopped by the NYPD are more likely than minorities to be carrying guns or drugs. * Scientific inaccuracies found in common idioms. * New Star
For residents of Patsy Cline’s hometown of Winchester, Va., the struggle over how to remember the famous country singer begins with deciding what sort of a legacy she left—and whether they want it.
* Fema uses its own "Waffle House index" as an informal way of measuring the impact of a disaster. * Government experts warn tornado victims could face deadly fungal infections caused by airborne molds usually found in dirt and decaying wood. * John Cassidy's brief history of austerity in
* Q&A with a tornado chaser. * Riots break out in Stockholm suburbs over racism-fueled police brutality. * Conspiracy theories also seem to be more compelling to those with low self-worth, especially with regard to their sense of agency in the world. * As the world's population continues to grow
* In 2011, American households spent more on their pets annually than they spent on alcohol, landline phone bills, or men's and boys' clothing. * Stunning cellphone footage shows Oklahoma tornado beginning to form, starting to wreak havoc. * See also: Time-lapse video of the Moore tornado as seen from
* China’s new-home prices rose last month in 68 of 70 cities, with average annual wages for urban private company employees jumping 14 percent. * Japanese researchers figure out why babies respond to patting and being moved: to avoid existential threats. * On the comeback trail, hallucinogens are being tried recreationally by
Our current era of on-demand television series does more than facilitate binge-watching—it encourages it. David Foster Wallace already told us what happens next.
* Fashion models are almost twice as likely as computer programmers to get visas to enter the U.S. * Era of private space travel begins within the year, with more than 800 people signed up to blast off from New Mexico. * America's collective sense of shock over Oklahoma'
It’s a dark time for the non-cable subscriber craving sartorial escape on the small screen: Downton Abbey is long over for the year, and it’ll probably be another six months to a year before the latest seasons of Game of Thrones and Boardwalk Empire are released for purchase.
* If we take the future at all seriously...then we need to leave a big percentage of the planet's coal and oil and natural gas in the ground. * Working-class white citizens in South Africa face levels of deprivation as bad as black South Africans faced under apartheid. * Denmark&
* After Tennessee Rep. Debra Maggart, a lifelong NRA member, voted against a pro-gun bill, her onetime allies destroyed her. * Vertical timeline of congressional leanings on gun control. * If you have a famous ancestor far enough back that finding out about them is a surprise, you share them with a small
From his new solo show in the United States, black-and-white selections from Takuma Nakahira’s “Circulation: Date, Place, Events,” plus a reprint of his 1973 essay, “Looking at the City or the Look From the City.”
* According to the Congressional Budget Office, the deficit crisis is solved for the next decade, and sequestration is dumb. * If you can't get a cast like that together, you can forget changing anything in a great big way. * Boston Marathon runners—two wheelchair-bound—return to cross the finish
* Russia ships sophisticated anti-ship missiles to Syria, fulfilling order placed in 2007. * Putin installs helipad at the Kremlin to appease Muscovites' fury over politicians skirting traffic laws. * Business booming in “Gun Valley,” aka "the swath of Western Massachusetts and Connecticut where industrial gun making in America began."
While it’s easy to think of the United States as either New York (urban) or Los Angeles (sprawl) with nothing but Mayberry in between, the truth is that there’s a lot of character to be found between the coasts of these United States. Exhibit No. 1: the Mark
* The New Orleans Mother's Day shooting should be a "national tragedy," except it isn't. * Activist protests Abercrombie CEO's opinion that his brand is not for "unattractive people" by donating its merchandise to the homeless. * Chuck Hagel orders retraining of military
This week, Detroit’s new emergency manager released his first report on the city’s dire affairs. But residents have long been accustomed to life in what’s essentially a failed state. A native author meets the motorcycle men working hard to save Detroit, one fiend at a time.
* Dept. of Homeland Security seizes funds from the largest Bitcoin exchange. * Aaron Swartz was not yet a legend when, almost two years ago, I asked him to build an open-source, anonymous in-box. * Pneumatic tubes, and other reasons libraries will fail—from 1864. * The Kepler space telescope's greatest hits.
* Scientists announce $1 vaccine for rotavirus infections—which kill half a million children worldwide every year. * Politicians endlessly debate debts and deficits with little regard for the human costs of their decisions. * Reacting to Time's cover story, discerning whether it's even possible to measure narcissism. * Why
* Massacres and grisly killings in Syria, filmed for the world to see, show gap between diplomacy efforts and events on the ground. * Kofi Annan's "Africa Progress Report" says resource-rich countries must work together to make tax avoidance harder. * Ghyslain Raza, formerly known as "Star Wars
* I'd been struggling with whether to do it for nearly two years, ever since I learned I carry the BRCA1 genetic mutation. * In light of Gov. Christie's recent gastric bypass, recalling Taft's weight-loss regimen. * Over a two-and-a-half-year period, device and drug companies shelled out
After six months in Leipzig, a German reporter asks the novelist what he’ll miss. But it’s back here in the United States where more dangerous questions take shape, none easily answered with good beer.
* As the Bering Sea makes its way further inland, residents of Newtok, Alaska, could become America's first climate refugees. * Our best hope for the future is not to get people to think of all humanity as family—that's impossible. * Why did Jodon Romero kill himself on
* People close to Obama noticed two telltale signs he's been a little down—his low-energy April 30 news conference...and his demand for more campaign-style road trips. * Recent additions to the literary subgenre of Texas secessionist fantasy. * Regardless of how you look at it, at all levels, institutions
* IRS scandal grows from targeting not just "tea party"-branded groups, but also nonprofits critical of the government. * Astronaut Chris Hadfield says goodbye to the International Space Station with a cover of "Space Oddity." * Last week, atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide reached their highest level in
Portraits of community, recreation, and environmental abuse along the riverbanks of Washington, DC’s, Anacostia neighborhood.
* Federal prosecutors indict eight people for stealing $45 million from thousands of ATMs in just a few hours. * For many, Twitter verification is badge of self-worth—but with good reason, others have rejected the offer. * Entomologists inject mosquitos with bacteria that could permanently rid the insects and their offspring of
Though mothers may gnash their teeth at forgotten flowers and missing brunches, the poets still sing of the worst Mother’s Day ever: that of Oedipus and his bride.
* Republicans use Benghazi to attack Clinton's fitness to lead the country after Obama's term. * Klein: The Senate runs on norms rather than rules, and now that we've broken the norms, they're broken forever. * Fueled by a race-baiting, national marketing campaign and the
* The Indian government's new monitoring system can access all its citizens' phone calls, texts, emails, and social media exchanges. * Cholera victims in Haiti threaten to sue UN for negligence in allowing appointed peacekeepers to contaminate water supply. * Scientists invent microparticle that, when injected, can keep a person
But the internet was different—we were different—before she joined Twitter. Before she began to show us who we really are. We were still used to who Amanda had been. We did not understand who she was becoming. We expected her to be that skinny little girl with the
Western museums aren’t exactly known for possessing sterling records when it comes to acquiring the treasures of foreign countries. So when the Met is pressured to return its valuables, a mea culpa seems due.
* Wisconsin approves bill to require recipients of food stamps to spend at least two-thirds of monthly benefits on food that's not junk. * Photographs of Chinese farmers', engineers', and businessmen's do-it-yourself projects. * See also: Jack Hitt's "Amateurs' Role in Grand Challenges.
* Nigerians morgues are flooded with evidence—in the form of corpses—of the military's war against Islamists. * Bristling at U.S. accusations of hacking, China claims Washington is the "real hacking empire." * To have a constructive conversation about drones, maybe don't call them "
* Critics of Keynes say because he was childless he didn't care about "the long run"—but they don't understand what he meant by "the long run." * The law student behind the world's first 3D-printable gun is a "principled"
* The black hole of North Korea intelligence gathering is getting blacker. * Related: An illustrated guide to the on-again, off-again romance between Pyongyang and the U.S. * Daniel C. Dennett tests a theory that "surely" signals a weak philosophical argument. * Long-tongued bat uses the hair on its tongue—which
Flash fiction—prairie-style—from novelists Jonathan Lethem and Aimee Bender, plus an interview with Jeff Martin, editor of the new collection Imaginary Oklahoma.
* Investigators piece together what happened in West, Texas, where unverified amounts of volatile chemicals may have been housed. * One year after Obama affirmed his support of same-sex marriage, public opinion has followed suit. * For more than two years, a government lab has been running a quantum-sized internet. * Signs you'
* More than 30 years before Jason Collins, baseball's Glenn Burke was the first openly gay player in the majors. * Related: When Glenn Burke invented the high five. * Every conceivable piece of data transmitted or received by U.S. citizens is kept at the NSA's new facility
* NRA asks convention vendor to remove 3D "bleeding" target dummy resembling Obama. * Related: Shooting an Obama target is legal, just as it was legal for a Ben and Jerry's co-founder to burn a 12-foot-tall Bush effigy. * How to tell you're eating rat. * How Taco
Pictures from the edges of the Northern Gaeltacht, the Irish-speaking area of County Mayo and one of the last true wilderness areas in Western Europe.
* After six months of meetings, Halliburton and North Carolina set fracking rules. * Map shows the extent of Mexican drug cartels' reach in North America. * According to the CDC, more Americans now die of suicide than in car accidents. * Photos of children proudly displaying their "My First Rifle."
A man is always more complicated than his paper trail—especially when he’s your father, who walked out one day.
* Entire villages in Mexico's Costa Grande region have been abandoned in the cartel war. * After al-Qaida got involved around 10 years ago, we saw a massive increase in the quantities of cocaine involved. * In utero, the largest shark embryo will devour all its littermates—except its closest-related sibling.
The talk I get—it’s human nature to have strong opinions about deadly things—it’s the not listening that seems to be the problem. Which is one of the reasons I love Nicole Pasulka’s How to Hunt: Nicole not only listens, but does. As divisive as guns
* Economist decides Tennessee's Knoxville is America's most perfectly average place. * Fact-checking Obama's claim that 85-90 percent of Americans won't notice anything but better health care due to the Affordable Care Act. * Five conspiracy theories actually believed by Texas senator Ted Cruz, who
Growing up in Ohio, far from the homeland of her parents, a girl puzzles over her identity, until the strings of a sitar create a connection.
* American citizen sentenced to 15 years of hard labor in North Korea—possibly to entice an American president to come free him. * Roots of Buddhists killing Muslims in Burma and Sri Lanka traced back to "a Faustian pact with state power." * Chart weaves together economic growth in Africa
* Theories abound over why North Korea has gone quiet, though many point to China and John Kerry. * Chilly Gonzales discusses his experience of recording music with Daft Punk. * Computer historian names his holy grail: “the CompuServe backup tapes.” * British pharmacy quits labeling science toys as suitable for boys, not girls,
The internet is an unrelenting enabler of our flaws and an unforgiving archive of them—so should you google your new love interest, or hold off? And what if they google you first?
* Forty-two percent of Americans aren't sure if Obama's health care reform is still law. * Boston Marathon victims who lost limbs will be provided with (mostly) free prosthetics. * In light of the Boston Marathon bombers, prison interview with the Unabomber, whose younger brother/former acolyte put him
* Obama says Guantanamo Bay needs to be closed, orders review of operations, plans to "renew discussions with lawmakers" who want it open. * Boy Scouts leadership recommends banning gay leaders, but not gay scouts. * At the Nakizumo crying-baby festival in Tokyo, parents hand their babies over to sumo wrestlers.
New Yorkers don't fade away—they just move. But to where? From Miami to Austin to Berlin, detailed maps of nearly every other significant city's neighborhoods show ex-pats exactly where to emigrate.
* Government blames deadly explosion in Damascus on rebels; rebels blame a government seeking sympathy. * Syrian hackers have two purposes: to punish Western media for criticizing the new regime and to provide an "alternative narrative." * Best jokes corralled from Saturday's White House correspondents dinner, hosted by Conan
* In China, 87 percent of the population shares 100 names. * On the black market, a totoaba fish bladder demands $5,000 in the U.S.—and $10,000 in Asia. * The wild-pig population is exploding, destroying the planet and costing billions of dollars. * Why your supermarket only sells five kinds
India’s prevailing image is one of noisy animation—development, overcrowding, and horrible traffic. In comparison, night-scapes of urban India capture the life, or lack thereof, that darkness conceals.
* One hundred and two hours in pursuit of the Boston Marathon suspects. * Today I was able to meet "Misha," whose real name is Mikhail Allakhverdov. * Zubeidat Tsarnaeva contends her sons are innocent—Larry David knows why. * Though it's still unknown why Tamerlan Tsarnaev radicalized, it occurred
* With Tamerlan driving now, Danny in the passenger seat, and Dzhokhar behind Danny, they stopped in Watertown Center. * The origins of the #FreeJahar movement—when teen fandom turns conspiracy theorist. * Though Reddit's Boston bombing "investigation" was an unmitigated disaster, the internet can be surprisingly effective at
* Syria denies use of chemical weapons; UK and Turkey back U.S. concern; Israel urges military intervention. * Some members of Congress were told last week that the U.S. had evidence of Syrians killed by the chemical sarin. * Three important caveats on the Syria chemical weapons report and Obama'
Delicious incongruity aside, the scene served as another reminder of the age: Nobody with any alternative—even skis—took the subway then, especially at night. Manhattan, it is harder and harder to remember, used to be a really rough place. But as rough as it was in the late ’60s,
* Round-up of senators who sided with the NRA's lobbying against gun-control legislation approved by the vast majority of Americans. * Czech Republic reaches out to support citizens of West, Texas—in particular those who require a new gym—following plant explosion. * Analysis of how Phoenix became the only famous
As anyone who’s struggled to start a band, get shows, record music, and become a certified rock star knows, coming up with a name is half the challenge. A linguistic take on how we name bands today.
* Congressional lawmakers and aides from both parties have been working quietly for months to exempt themselves from new health care exchanges. * UK avoids triple-dip recession with better than expected GDP growth. * Spain's economic crisis evident in the declining quality of its ham sandwiches. * American overseas food aid mired
New paintings that question how much we truly influence our fate, and whether or not life is just a string of accidents.
* For $250,000, guests at Las Vegas's Bellagio can press a button that sets fountain water to a tune of their choice. * In America, people on the terror watch list are still allowed to buy guns. * British man made millions selling fake bomb detectors to Iraq, with a
* Hundreds remain trapped after an eight-story building collapses in Bangladesh, killing at least 76. * In the case of Tamerlan Tsarnaev, "it may be impossible to disentangle the psychological demons from political motives." * List of "mystifying things" performed by the Tsarnaev brothers while killing three people and
* Obama given poor marks for lacking Lyndon Johnson's toughness during the gun-control fight; supporters say DC has changed since Johnson's era. * Related: "The Ghost of Gun Control." * K-Pop's "neon bubble" distances South Koreans from pre-separation history and Kim Jong-un'
* Law-enforcement officials say the FBI shouldn't have made much of Russia's 2011 tip-off about Tsarnaev. * Stories collected from runners and spectators found in an iconic Boston Marathon bombing picture. * Pictures of the Boston shootout taken by an eye witness who lived nearby. * Few Chechens live in
On Nov. 28, 1966, the SS Daniel J. Morrell capsized during a storm, taking 28 of its 29 crewmen to the bottom of Lake Huron. The sole survivor of a Great Lakes shipwreck tells his tale.
* Speculation about the Boston Marathon bombers immortalizes the attackers rather than the victims. * I got facials from Dzhokhar and Tamerlan's mother for years--in the living room of the family's home. * Czech ambassador confirms that the Czech Republic is not, in fact, Chechnya. * Analysis of obituaries suggests
* We should all listen to Uncle Ruslan. * One hundred years ago, the violent act of one Polish-American caused a country to treat all Polish-Americans with suspicion. * Study: Majority of Americans not informed enough to stereotype Chechens. * Nearly half of internet users don't know it's illegal to
* Stunning photos from the Boston manhunt currently underway. * From Monday to right now, an ongoing timeline of events in Boston. * Chechnya's president says the bombing suspects are more American than Chechen. * Nearly all of the senators who voted against the gun-control bill received campaign donations from the NRA.
America is full of guns—one gun for every citizen—and Americans often use them to shoot one another. It’s not enough anymore to say we love our guns. The question is: Why do we kill?
* Eyewitness accounts from last night's manhunt for the Boston bombing suspects in Watertown, Mass. * A Boston victim who appeared in a now-iconic photo identified one of the suspects. * Eleven years into the war on terror, we should no longer expect we know what an "al Qaeda attack&
* This week, a marathon's first-aid tents and a high school football field became triage centers. * As horrific as it was, the Boston Marathon bombing may not qualify as a terrorist attack for the purposes of insurance coverage. * Following trips to Sandy victims and Newtown, therapy dogs arrive in
* Giffords: Senators who chose the NRA against the people should be ashamed, but are not. * Congressional reaction to the Senate's rejection of background checks. * Despite his fight, Obama knew before setting out that gun-control legislation never stood a chance in hell of surviving the NRA's money.
* Trauma surgeons at Boston faced the difficult decision of whether to amputate legs of those whose lives revolve around running. * What the New York Post got right. * Washington, Moscow, and Beijing are in a standstill over Iran, Syria, and North Korea—thankfully, everyone wants the same outcome. * Whether parents choose
Try and guess what it references. The answer is linked after the jump. {image-16} [Answer]
* "The Unfinished Race" by Hugh Eakin. * Murakami: "As far as my experience goes, Boston is the most appealing marathon." * Since 1970 there have been more than 1,430 terror attacks in America. * Why baseball makes for the best fights. * A new app helps prevent Icelanders from
The world of the myope is often a nicer place—faces lack wrinkles, and trees seem to be painted by Monet. Then, during a visit to Moscow, a black spot appears.
* If you are losing faith in human nature, go out and watch a marathon. * About 30 seconds after running his first Boston Marathon, a surgeon became a medic. * Playing Tetris can help alleviate the psychological symptoms of PTSD. * The hell of American day care. * How a blogger set off a
* Three people killed, more than 130 injured by two bomb blasts, 12 seconds apart, at the Boston Marathon. * Interactive map of how the Boston Marathon bombings unfolded. * Sixteen acts of terrorism have occurred in Boston since 1970, though none since 1995. * After news broke about the explosions in Boston, conspiracy
* In case you haven't noticed, thanks to Republican politicians, North Carolina is currently going out of its mind. * In 2012, 20,000 Americans used guns to commit suicide. * Military translators in Afghanistan wait endlessly for visas to the United States while remaining targeted by the Taliban. * Details about
* On Sunday, while the world watched for signs of nuclear aggression, Pyongyang held a marathon with runners from 16 nations. * As a result, the overwhelming majority of chemicals in use today have never been independently tested for safety. * Animated gifs of infomercial disasters. * Among the diplomatic archives published by Wikileaks:
Fine-art photography from one of the snowboarding world’s best practitioners, “Creager,” who recently retired from traveling the world in search of snow.
* Kim's biggest miscalculation may have been in assuming that Beijing and Moscow would indulge his rhetoric. * Former North Korean spy calls Kim Jong-un's nuclear program "a bargaining chip for aid." * In a satirical video, Syrian rebels announce they will protect the U.S. from
* The Senate's rejection of filibustering gun-control legislation is not a victory, only a continuation of the fight. * South Carolina congressman, opposed to background checks, likens national gun registry to the Rwandan genocide. * Actress loses lawsuit against IMDb for publishing her real age against her objections. * Finland apologizes for
But if Jessica’s book tour doesn't bring her to you, fear not: You can still get to know her a little better the same way we did—through her writing for TMN. Here are four highlights, ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you
* U.S. Navy to begin deploying anti-drone lasers aboard warships in 2014. * "All Servicepersons and People Will Become Human Bullets and Bombs," and other hit songs according to North Korean news. * Four charts depict the history of energy consumption in the U.S. * A study finds rice imported
Your eyes don’t totally glaze over when someone tells you the latest news about Chloe Moretz. Maybe you have a general sense that One Direction is a boy band? From England? Although who knows what their music sounds like. And in a lineup of Selena Gomez, Vanessa Hudgens, Miranda
* Intelligence reports reveal the CIA has been using drones in Pakistan to kill possible militants—not just al Qaeda leadership. * Iran denounces Google Earth as an intelligence-gathering ploy, announces plans for an "Islamic" version. * Silencer manufacturers claim otherwise, but their product isn't for hunting or home
An unexpected pregnancy, tuna sandwiches consumed in darkness, and woman after woman of a certain age living by the ocean—eventually, all connections make sense when it comes to prescient grandparents.
* Iraq claims to be a "sovereign partner" of the U.S., but Iranian influence and an emerging autocracy signal otherwise. * Russell Brand on Margaret Thatcher—"an icon of individualism, not of feminism." * Femen: We are transforming female sexual subordination into aggression, and thereby starting the real
* China struggles to convince a population—skeptical for good reason—there's no connection between dead pigs and bird flu. * As North Korea shows signs of a new missile launch, China shows signs of a shift away from Pyongyang. * Don't worry, North Korea is bluffing; Kim Jong-un
North Korea’s intentions are unknown for the moment. But its memos are, at the very least, straightforward. The TMN staff uncovers a worldwide exclusive: internal documentation of the DPRK’s plans for the remaining calendar year.
* Syrian government refuses to allow UN chemical-weapons investigators permission to broaden their mission. * Ignatius: I was there and I'm here to tell you, Margaret Thatcher opened the door for modern Britain. * Remembering Thatcher's 1978 appearance on "Desert Island Discs." * One-fifth of Earth’s fresh
To wed or not to wed? There’s the rub. Revisiting Tom Stoppard’s classic in the era of gay marriage.
* Obama pleads with Congress to vote on gun control, criticizing Republicans who have threatened to filibuster. * Republican senators' staffers complain of new gun groups' harassment campaigns. * Britain debates whether it's OK to celebrate Thatcher's death, as many have done with champagne and public partying.
* Story of Nek Muhammad, enemy of Pakistan whom the CIA killed in exchange for access to Pakistan's airspace. * New science teaching standards in the U.S. will include extensive lessons on human-made climate change; not so in the UK. * Nicholas Lemann on the disappearance of America's
* Tour company experiences 400% increase in inquiries about trips to North Korea. * South Korea says the North may be planning to conduct another underground nuclear test. * NASA plans to use robotic spaceship to lasso asteroid and "park it near the moon." * Uganda may ban above-the-knee skirts and broadcasting
Even abstract art must begin with something, Picasso said. A broken Polaroid camera, grinding film through its gears, yields a surprising amount of fleeting beauty.
* Four teenagers attempt to end Georgia county's tradition of racially segregated proms. * Ice that took 1,600 years to form in the Andes in Peru has melted in the past 25. * Graham crackers and Corn Flakes were originally intended to curb sexual urges. * Roger Ebert remembers his favorite
* Since Newtown, more states have relaxed gun restrictions than have passed new gun-control laws. * A state-by-state breakdown of recent gun legislation. * Coplen plans to arm an entire unnamed Houston neighborhood as a case study on the effects of an armed population on crime. * Why do we laugh at North Korea
I have to admit I’m a little sorry to see the long nights of winter go. I suppose I’m so conditioned to be working during daylight that I often find myself feeling vaguely uneasy when the sun is still up at 8 p.m. Then, a few years
* Let's say that the North decides to fire its new mobile KN-08 intermediate-range ballistic missile. * Instead of Austin, a likelier North Korean target is nearby San Antonio, home to Air Force Cyber Command. * The greatest deterrent to North Korea's aggression is China, whose new president could
* When the presidency was "an unbroken string of white men," the GOP didn't bother asking Baltimore's Dr. Carson to wear a mask. * Thirty-six recent images of people wearing masks. * Hopi Indians of Arizona ask federal officials to stop a high-price Paris auction of 70
* NRA report on school security mixes up shootings, advises more guns, bulletproofing. * Satellite images of Burma reveal the devastation of the Muslim community at the hands of militant Buddhists. * Roger Ebert announces new cancer diagnosis, "leave of presence" to write more about anything and everything. * Obama's
Some of my earliest memories take me to a restaurant that occupied the first floor of a midcentury building in the Silom area of Bangkok. I can see my family seated around a large round table as ceiling fans turned slowly above us and the traffic of older waiters in
* The federal government's sequestration continues, but Democrats and Republicans say Obama cried wolf about airline travel. * It would be easier to take conservatives seriously about gun control if they didn't support massive military spending. * The Netherlands, Berlin's staunch ally in pushing for budgetary discipline
* Women who stood shoulder to shoulder with men during the 2011 Tahrir Square protests...found their position in society undermined almost immediately. * Browse the components of the federal budget since 1965. * One of the largest farms in the U.S. converts livestock manure into natural gas to power its facilities
* China's mysterious duck, pig, and human deaths could point to a new pandemic on the horizon. * Sanitation workers, it turns out, have twice the fatality rates of police offers, and nearly seven times the fatality rates of firefighters. * A trans writer reports from both sides of the male
Black and white portraits of young men and women at the Milton Margai School for the Blind in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
* A big-data analysis of white supremacists shows Republicans need to do more to counter extremist views in the U.S. * How Muslims suffer under NYPD profiling. * EPA to propose cutting sulphur content in gasoline to improve the effectiveness of catalytic converters. * Dried whiskey residue that resembles celestial bodies * For the
When your name prompts questions in several continents, how you answer—and whether or not you stick an accent above the “a”—says a lot about who you are.
* Kim Jong Un approves plan to ready rockets to hit U.S. targets; Pentagon urges North Korea to "dial the temperature down." * Researchers say the French have been unhappy for decades, trained early to acquire “multidimensional dissatisfaction and depressiveness.” * British princess sister Pippa Middleton says the secret of
On Monday the high court announced it would add a second affirmative action case to its docket, that, The Week reports, “has observers wondering if they’re preparing to deliver a pair of rulings that, combined, would have a wide-reaching impact.” Of more acute concern to today’s high school
* Google Street View locates a ghost town in Fukushima's evacuation zone. * Historically religious town allows widows to celebrate "Holi"—India's festival of color—for the first time. * Richard III's descendants claim breach of rights, challenge the planned reburial in York Minster. * Kubrick&
* Annual military drill sends American B-2 Spirit bombers over South Korea amid "heightened tension on the Korean Peninsula." * Illustrated guide to American-North Korean relations since the cold war. * Bill and Melinda Gates say the world needs a better condom "that significantly preserves or enhances pleasure, in order
* Crime plummets in Juarez—perhaps one cartel won over the other, maybe there's fewer young men to kill, or it could be better policing. * The trouble with being a snitch. * Brazilian doctor charged with killing seven patients now being investigated in nearly 300 other deaths. * The maker of
Pyongyang’s frequent threats toward the United States appear to be ratcheting up in intensity. How did we get to this point? An illustrated guide to the relationship’s recent romance, and why you should be nervous about North Korea.
* Justices say it could be too early to consider same-sex marriage, and may dismiss the case to allow states to continue experimenting. * According to Tony Kushner's prophecy, capitalism can absorb equal rights for gays, but still encourage many horrible things. * North Korea turns volume of missile systems—and
* If I could snap my finger and get rid of all the guns, I would. I think they're evil. ... People are making money off them, and people are dying. * North Korea says missiles are targeting Hawaii, Guam, and the mainland U.S.—more of a message to its
* Ellen DeGeneres's career viewed as litmus test for understanding America's progress on gay rights since 1986. * Arizona store won't sell Mark Kelly an assault weapon after learning he didn't intend to use it. * More than 3,000 people killed by guns in
* Seven executed bodies posed on plastic chairs with cryptic warning found near traffic circle in Uruapan, Mexico. * Related: Dentist rehydrates corpses to identify victims and investigate murders in crime-ridden Ciudad Juárez. * The untold side of the immigration story: Well-off families escaping violence in Mexico must prove the origins of their
The media has labored to stress the humility of the 266th and current Pope of the Catholic Church. But somehow they missed his taste for Burt Reynolds movies, and other signs of holy humbleness.
* One reason to expect some kind of victory for marriage equality in this week's Supreme Court hearings: Justice Kennedy. * Republicans see fundraising opportunities in New York, Florida, and California if they back gay marriage. * From November 2012, Alex Ross on the gay community’s political progress in his
* Number of dead pigs found in two Chinese rivers rises to 16,000; authorities still say Shanghai's water is safe to drink. * E-cigarette sales doubled last year, and are expected to double again in 2013; "vaping" seen as smoking's next step. * Ta-Nehisi Coates almost
In most cases they seem to stretch well past the sell-by date of whatever relationship they were originally attached to. It makes sense, narratively. The part of the relationship where you like someone and hope they like you back, where you obsess over various interpretations of their texts and late-night
How to play, how to win, and how to act like you won whether you did or not.
* New data says the Universe is officially 13.82 billion years old, only 5% normal matter, and also a bit lopsided. * In Syria, the first suicide bombing to detonate in a mosque kills 42, including a prominent Sunni Muslim preacher. * Police in Moscow crack down on fake ambulances that carry
Ten years on, it seems like the only judgment left to be made about our Iraqi boondoggle is how much of a disaster it was. The war’s anniversary was barely acknowledged in Washington this year, something we’ll remedy here, with five stories about the Iraq war, ready to
* Nor could I compare Obama favorably to Bush...most Iraqi Kurds prefer the muscle of a Republican in office. * Fifteen-year-old Nobel Peace Prize nominee returns to school after Taliban gunmen shot her in the head for supporting girls' education. * Reid: "The time for watered-down and effectively meaningless gun
* U.S. asks for Rwanda's help shipping war-crimes suspect to The Hague; suspect suspected of knowing Rwanda's secrets. * Obama's limousine refuses to start after someone fills it with gas, not diesel. * According to records, adverse psychological reactions to combat never even approached the physical
* This week marks the 21st anniversary of Hezbollah's 1992 Israeli embassy bombing; modern Europe should pay heed. * Hamas launches program to teach Hebrew in Gaza schools, with neither a strategic nor conciliatory agenda. * Study finds truck drivers who consume caffeine are 63% less likely to crash than drivers
* More than a dozen car bombs and suicide blasts kill nearly 60 around Iraq on the 10th anniversary of the U.S.-led invasion. * Five takes on whether America is better off now than it was when Saddam Hussein was in power. * Reed rejects Feinstein's assault-weapons ban after
* Does it destroy a teenager’s life to take him off the path of being an adult rapist? * Excerpts from the RNC's surprisingly frank election postmortem. * International sanctions are leaving Iran's hospitals without supplies—surgeons are resorting to "old drugs." * FBI says it knows
The United States is a huge country, much too big for the nightly news. Our series continues where one of our editors randomly calls people in small towns around America to find out what’s really going on.
* Few statistics exist for Syria's uprising, but Assad's army is estimated to be half its size, certain of the loyalty of only 50,000 soldiers. * Blogger who helped bring the Steubenville rape case to national attention explains her investigative process. * Rape is that unique crime in
* U.S. must decide whether to break from policy and permit South Korea to go nuclear and deflect northern aggression. * Brandon Maxfield was shot when he was seven; now 26 and a quadriplegic, he's been a major force behind the end of cheap, unsafe guns. * Cypriots panic as
The Hereros of Namibia added Victorian fashion into their traditional costume under German influence in the late 19th and early 20th century. Photographer Jim Naughten explains how he became fascinated with this community.
* Steubenville teenagers found guilty of rape, highlighting the increasing use of social media as evidence in court. * Investigation continues for people who may have failed to come forward—students, parents, coaches. * Obama will resist Israeli pressure to attack Iran, Israel won't commit to a peace process, and Syria
* To get pregnant, some Palestinian women are smuggling their husbands' sperm out of jail. * Why the new pope's chosen name could signal a renewed focus and global presence for the church. * Italy refuses to send marines accused of killing two fishermen back to India for trial. * Cofounder
* North Korea accuses U.S. and South Korea of cyber attack and staging preparations for war. * Point: In the "randy" CIA, spies and handlers screw around a lot, and we want them to, in order to be good at their jobs. * Counterpoint: Real spies are promiscuous, true, but
Francis is a Jesuit committed to a modest lifestyle; back home he eschewed the trappings of rank in lieu of living in a simple apartment and taking the bus. Many Catholics have spoken of their wish for the Church to modernize; as a non-Catholic I can only comment that some
* One in seven mothers suffers from postpartum depression, but many feel too guilty to admit it. * Germany to allow women going through unwanted pregnancies to give birth in a hospital under a false name. * The twist-tie v. plastic clip battle is over a $10.6 million market. * Global survey of
* How cardinals discern divine will: more and more strategically over the course of the papal conclave. * Sweden's krona is the best performing currency over the past 12 months; Japan's yen is the worst. * Close reading of North Korea's sexist insults of female American secretaries
Andy Kaufman performed for more than just laughs—in fact, his goal often seemed to be something entirely different. A budding comic chases Andy’s ineffable comedy.
While promoting the second season of Lifetime’s The Client List, the 34-year-old actress admitted to USA Today that she would consider getting her breasts insured. “I need, like, an insurance invitation. If somebody was like, ‘Hey, you know what? We would like to insure your boobs for $2.5
* Tehran wants to sue Hollywood for making films that "propagate fear of Iran throughout the world." * To protect against bioterrorism, U.S. buys two million doses of a new smallpox vaccine. * Google admits unauthorized data collection during Street View mapping, further fueling Google Glass privacy concerns. * Life as
Good book clubs rely on commitment, Sauvignon Blanc, and the pruning of members with annoying habits. Unfortunately, sometimes those members are homicidal maniacs.
* Top security chief says cyber-attacks pose the most dangerous immediate threat to the United States. * Republicans and Democrats' proposed budget plans aren't like apples and oranges; they're apples and bicycles. * Public defender who never stops working explains what it's like to carry 100
* Republicans tried to stop the U.S. military from buying renewable energy and going green; the military fought back. * Thousands of dead pigs found in Shanghai's main water source provides impetus for environmental reform in China. * Ai Weiwei to release heavy metal album with nine songs, some "
* U.S. issues new sanctions in response to North Korea's "scrapping" of the 1953 armistice. * Among the sabers that North Korea may still rattle: instability; nuclear swapping; terrorism. * Blogging proving popular in Vietnam—and so is an ugly and effective crackdown on political dissent. * Pictures from
Even as the Roman Catholic world prepares to welcome its 267th leader, the papacy remains mysterious and misunderstood. It's time to explore the world of popes!
* Inspired by Senator Paul's recent performance, an explanation of how filibusters work. * Wrigley introduces new caffeinated "chewable pellet" based on product it developed for the military. * CT scans of 137 mummies find atherosclerosis—"long before the arrival of junk food and flat-screen televisions." * Paintings
Women of the African diaspora crowned with elaborate headpieces, celebrating might, independence, and heart.
* Friday job numbers show spike in hiring, but economists warn the sequestration may wipe away that growth. * Thanks to the sequester, more cocaine will be showing up on our streets. * Physicist falls in love with bikini model he met online; model asks him to bring her a suitcase; physicist goes
* Highly sought al Qaeda militant—Osama bin Laden's son-in-law—detained in U.S. operation in Jordan. * Ahmadinejad: "I have no doubt that [Chávez] will return alongside Jesus Christ...to establish peace and justice in the world." * Pentagon required to find other methods of training Army medics
* Meticulous study of global temperatures finds current levels warmer than at any time in at least 4,000 years. * Rand's filibuster over drones yesterday may have been silly, but at least he had the guts to stand there and filibuster. * See also: Brief history of robot planes. * Forget
When you fall for someone, you fall for everything that comes with them: their beliefs, their passions, and American history’s most infamous typewriter.
This comes less than two weeks after the chain had to pull its signature Swedish meatballs from the menu, after horsemeat was found in those as well, and two days after they had to recall their almond and chocolate cakes, which were discovered to be contaminated with E. coli. If
* Nora Ephron's son on her last days, final work, and feeling guilty about crying in the hospital when Hitchens had not. * The death of Hugo Chávez as told by front pages from Latin American newspapers. * Final moments of the Chebarkul meteor reconstructed in order to pin down its
* Berlusconi convicted over wiretap, meanwhile appealing another conviction and facing two additional verdicts. * Logic says the CIA didn't give Chávez cancer; its history of assassination ploys suggests it would have used a poisonous wetsuit. * North Korea threatens pre-emptive nuclear strike against the United States and South Korea. * For
* Health care, housing, and other reasons to be optimistic about the U.S. economy. * Last year carbon emissions rose at their second highest rate since 1959, surpassing scientists' worst-case scenarios. * Timeline of memorable Chávez moments. * Chávez bequeaths a nation beset by crumbling infrastructure, unsustainable public spending, and underperforming industry.
* After Obama's win, partisans said the market would tank; now that it's way up, they're searching for political interpretations. * Hours after his book on immigration is published, Jeb Bush disagrees with its premise, following GOP party winds. * Jon Stewart to direct movie about reporter
Personal collections groomed over decades gather signs of Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and other hidden animals—crumbs of a fuller truth preserved by citizen scientists. One such collection in Maine is open to the public.
My paternal grandmother hailed from the north country. That made her a descendent of the Lanna Kingdom, and in photographs from her younger years, you can see hints of that bloodline in her pale skin and elongated features, Chinese-like, but not completely. Years later, having moved to Bangkok and married
* The overall political views of a district are less important for policymaking than the organized political groups in a district. * Indian woman on 12-year hunger strike against police brutality denies accusations of attempted suicide. * Palestinian workers riot over Israel's new segregated West Bank bus lines. * With nearly 100
* South Carolina's Mark Sanford is running for office again, having learned empathy—for other cheaters. * If Congress doesn't pass a "Continuing Resolution" by March 27, the government will likely shut down. * Anonymous sources say Pakistan is employing drone strikes against militants and blaming them
* Enormous turnout for Kenya's elections; process seen as smooth, though six police officers were killed. * Scientists believe girl born with HIV is the first child and only the second person known to have been cured. * India's Muslim population is steadily growing, and steadily falling behind the
* The sequester looks here to stay, and may possibly take several months to negotiate. * Study finds fewer people are “very concerned” about various environmental issues than at any point in the last 20 years. * Reported death of al-Qaeda leader Mohktar Belmohktar represents a major blow to terrorist operations in Mali.
Inspired by Old Master still lifes, Paulette Tavormina’s photographs lie in an uncanny valley of beauty—dew-dappled flowers combined with jumping goldfish.
* World Health Organization says people living near the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant have an increased risk of cancer. * In Bangladesh, street brawl over court decision to hang Islamic fundamentalist leader leaves 32 dead. * A poem for citizen Ratzinger, in the wake of the VatiLeaks scandal: "Everyone Popes." * Open
Former Pope Benedict XVI has left the Vatican, returning to his former life. But even with the church's retirement package, how can private citizenship compare? A poem for Mr. Ratzinger.
And then say no more, because there are more important things to talk about, like the financial trouble faced by the visual effects shops responsible for creating much of what the audience sees in Hollywood films—even the most ordinary things. (Who knew? I didn’t.) This has been an
* Lawmakers head home feeling confident nothing will get done when Boehner visits Obama in the White House. * Tank brokers estimate there are several hundred to 1,000 private tank owners in the U.S. * North Korea uses its own method of scoring basketball—e.g., eight points for a basket
* Beppe Grillo, whose movement now holds the balance of power in Italy's parliament, rules out a coalition with the center-left. * Only half of Americans believe the U.S. is the no. 1 military power in the world. * South African paper The Daily Sun publishes amateur footage of police
* Dozens of U.S. companies, including Apple, Facebook, eBay, and Intel back same-sex marriage. * In addition to a photograph and fingerprinting, [should arrestees] be required to open up for an oral swab? * A beer monopoly may be imminent, and it's perfectly legal. * "Harlem Shake" reaches the
A tiny little body double leading photographers away from wherever Suri wanted to be, the latest scam in a long line of scams that began with Tom Cruise’s portrayal of a heterosexual in Risky Business. Here are the facts: Last week, Katie picked Suri up from school and stuffed
* Coastal Carolina University is on lockdown after a student was shot and killed this morning. * A harrowing, interactive chart of the more than 2,300 people who have been killed by guns in America since Newtown. * Kerry defends free speech to German press: "In America, you have a right
Friends, the Rooster is right around the corner. This Monday, March 4, 2013, the Morning News Tournament of Books, presented by NOOK® by Barnes & Noble, officially begins. (If you missed the official announcement, it’s over here.) To whet your appetite, we’re releasing the brackets today in a
* For more than a year, [Democrats] subjected Koop to the kind of horrific nomination battle we have practically come to consider normal. * U.S. Dept. of Transportation orders shutdown of the East Coast Chinatown bus system. * An in-depth profile of Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathoner. * From 2003:
In 1974, a car hits a seven-year-old boy in central New Jersey. The boy dies. From 2013, a former friend starts to probe the causes, effects, statistics, and consequences.
* Dozens of prominent Republicans...have signed a legal brief arguing that gay people have a constitutional right to marry. * What really happened to William Sparkman Jr., the census worker whose body was found hanged in a Kentucky cemetery in 2009. * With a local economy that continues to spiral downward, a
* In talking to Seth about his sense of humor, I asked him about his penchant for making fun of those not like him. * Iran slams Argo Oscar win, calling it an "advertisement for the CIA." * Nine years after a group of Brits tried to swing Ohio in his
Exploring the appeal of “show caves” around the world, from their breathtaking natural beauty to the variety of tourist grotesqueries.
* Obama's team formalizes its second-term fundraising and agenda-activating mission. * Despite their long history of doing bad things together, North Korea wouldn't have tested an Iranian nuke. * Thin snows foreshadow another summer of drought and wildfire. * To take ownership of a statuette, Oscar winners first must agree
* Medicine in the U.S. is big business—that should be our first clue when asking why our medical bills are so high. * Scientists discover how brain cells in the midst of a stroke protect themselves from damage. * How music helps children to deal with bereavement. * Defense Dept. finds drone
The Oscars are consistently irrational, but we wanted more for David O. Russell's fantastic Silver Linings Playbook. Film critics David Haglund, Pasha Malla, and Michelle Orange discuss why the movie so divided critical opinion, and became such a hit with audiences.
* Replacement ears are difficult to make—3D printing could perfect how they look. * Scientists get closer to understanding how babies become bilingual before learning grammar. * Why better prenatal testing does not mean more abortion. * How to interpret rejection letters. * See also: A writer rejects a rejection letter. * [The South is]
* Snows depart the Midwest for the Northeast, but also bring moisture to some drought-stricken areas. * Medical bills are simply too high, enriching labs, Big Pharma, device makers, and hospital administrators, and screwing over everybody else. * For foreign drug manufacturers, Japan's aging population and manufacturing provide the world'
Over at Vulture, Brian McGreevy pleads with Girls fans (and critics) to stop calling Lena Dunham “brave” for daring to appear en deshabille onscreen despite her clinically average BMI, as if being an actress seeking attention were anything new. Likewise, at Slate, William Saletan argued that one big reason Oscar
* Human Rights Watch report finds Mexican security forces participated in 250 disappearances under President Calderon. * Google releases video to demonstrate life under its new product Glass—smartphone functionality embedded in a pair of eyeglasses. * Tableau portraits of London's bus stops. * Perhaps the only thing better than Girl Scout
As every man should know, of all our clothing purchases, shoes are the most important. Not only do they protect us from dangers underfoot, the right pair can soothe our weary souls.
* Reporters in Syria see no end in sight, only "bloody stalemates" in Damascus and Aleppo. * Pictures of DIY guns, vehicles, and explosives used by Syrian rebels. * Four grand ayatollahs issue fatwas against Iran's first 3G provider, cautioning against risks posed to family life by video calls.
* To turn Texas blue, Democrats will need a vision of Hispanic voters that goes beyond immigration reform. * America retains the right of nuclear first use—against nations who don't adhere to various nonproliferation strictures—and it should not. * Being able to handle life in Israel is one thing;
Hebrew has a verb to describe the act of a Jew immigrating to Israel: la'ahloht, “to ascend.” Upon deciding to leave Israel, our correspondent starts the slow process of descent well before boarding the plane.
* Ahead of spending-cuts crisis, White House plans shame campaign to make the GOP's position indefensible. * Two weeks ago, as a result of Spielberg's Lincoln, Mississippi officially ratified the 13th amendment to ban slavery. * Greece to reach true primary surplus this year, taking in more revenue than
When I was young, going to the beach meant gorging on sweets. The drive south from Bangkok to the seaside town of Huahin took more than a couple of hours, and Phetchaburi, a small city that has established itself as a destination for traditional Thai sweets and snacks, lay at
* The most important fact about the United States in this century is that middle-class incomes are stagnating. * How to buy recreational drugs online. * A new survey shows underage drinkers prefer beer, and especially Budweiser. * Program makes rhyming couplets from tweets unintentionally written in iambic pentameter. * Poem by William McGonagall, deemed
* Rather than mapping the brain, the Obama administration should solve the brain-behavior connection—the crux of neuroscience. * The opposite of President's Day: How the world's dictators and monarchs celebrate themselves. * Like the first laws limiting hours worked, [the minimum wage was] paternalistic in nature, and applied
Our man in Boston sits down for a frank accounting with Tony Horwitz, author of beloved works like Confederates in the Attic: Dispatches From the Unfinished Civil War. Here they chat about his new book on John Brown—still a divisive figure in America, particularly in these days of terrorism—and the
* This is the first time that Americans are going to be relatively worse off than their parents or grandparents in old age. * Gallery: Brian Ulrich's photographs of abandoned malls and empty big-box stores. * Mindy McCready is the third person to die from her season of Celebrity Rehab. * France
Portraits of leisure time and permanent parties in “the strange emptiness” of a Czech reservoir, close to the Austrian border.
* By endangering the public to protect itself, the LAPD's pursuit of Dorner shows the department hasn't progressed so much, after all. * Following Friday's close call, NASA discusses the other orbiting asteroids that threaten Earth. * Related: Interstellar Hard Drive. * New analysis of lunar rocks brought
* Iranian politicians shouldn't high-five in public. * Human migration is impossible to stop, and is growing exponentially—Obama would do well to take lessons from China. * Wrongful-death lawsuit filed against the makers of Jack3d; GNC puts its supply on markdown. * Actress in hip-hop video about recreational prescription drug use
* Tennessee congressman wasn't sending flirty tweets to a mistress, but to a secret, long-lost daughter. * The love story of Harry and Bess Truman began when they were five-year-olds in Sunday school. * To celebrate Valentine's Day, CDC announced yesterday the U.S. is home to 110 million
So, since it was also Valentine’s Day this week, here are five stories of complicated love from the TMN archives. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* American Airlines and US Airways confirm $11-billion merger, and will operate together under the American brand. * CBS footage of a gun battle from the final stage of the manhunt for Christopher Dorner. * Quest to end the miserable migraines. * Addiction to "ataya"—a hot, strong tea—becoming a threat
* Liberals support Obama's foreign policy for the same reason they backed George W. Bush—because they're interventionist. * "10 Food Documentaries to Stream on Netflix Tonight" includes the terrific Kings of Pastry. * See also: The complete Beatles songbook covered on ukelele. * Westminster Dog Show champion
It begins as a dull ache, then the skull becomes hot and brittle, then the neck stiffens—and then there's no escaping a migraine. A search for relief, temporary or otherwise.
If you’re like me, you’re busily fashioning a full-size model of Ryan Reynolds from ordinary household objects. The things we do for love, am I right? Not that a fake Ryan Reynolds doesn’t provide SOME comfort and pleasure on this, the most romantic day of the year,
* Interactive graphic of every State of the Union speech shows the language is getting dumber. * Research suggests cold weather makes us better decision makers in Alaska than in Florida. * Few, if any, hospitals know the cost of a new hip, and there appears to be no set market price. * List
Yesterday morning, a plane landed at an airport. A man who was or was not a famous actor, and a writer who was or was not in love with him, stood on the verge of finally meeting. A Valentine's Day story for the romantic and/or foolish at heart.
* Beijing views North Korea's third nuclear test, held during a major Chinese holiday, as an insult. * The Chinese web reaction to the nuclear test: jokes about Kim Jong Un's posterior. * The size of the blast is one thing, but the exact nature of the device exploded
* A man...who capped his career by terminating bin Laden, has no landing pad in civilian life. * The popes who've resigned. * Odds that the next pope could be from Latin America, home to 40% of the world's Catholics. * Guilt is our inner police force, but if
* House members stake out aisle seats at the State of the Union for a chance to be seen on television by constituents. * Graphing the rhetoric of the last 12 State of the Union addresses. * Q&A with the editor of the Antarctic Sun. * UK officials blame "criminal activity&
London's evolution is measured in centuries, not years. But when half of the city's new abodes go to foreign buyers—frequently as third or fourth homes—who's steering the design? Assessing Battersea's return from 30 years in the desert, just in time for a brand new American embassy.
* Jillian Becker, friend of Sylvia Plath's, remembers their last days together, 50 years ago. * Like most teenagers [I] had no problem identifying with a young woman who had everything going for her. * Millenials report the highest stress levels of any age group, and their doctors are worried. * The
* With NASA no longer sending humans into space, would-be astronauts turn their hopes to the private sector. * As the Bush email hack shows, breaking into a presidential account isn't the only way to access executive-level info. * It is startling how little [Bush] managed to move the rhetoric and
Thirteen “liberated, assertive, ferocious” takes on Da Vinci’s famous painting show us the Mona Lisa as never before seen.
* Aviation experts believe Iran's stealth fighter is an elaborately constructed model. * Scientists identify the creature from which all placental mammals—including humans—descended. * "WTF, Evolution": Nature's weird selections. * Frozen meat lasagna from Sweden discovered to contain between 60 and 100 percent horsemeat. * From David
* Potentially historic winter storm follows Sandy's path into New England this afternoon. * "One for the record books," asteroid the size of an office building will miss Earth next week, though passing closer than some weather satellites. * Seven points about Iran and nukes that summarize everything we
The only hour of the week you can even stand to be alive, the only time you can focus on something other than the terrible skin covering your ungainly blob of a body, is Tuesdays from 9 to 10 p.m., when Moonlighting is on. Even though everyone else in
But as justifiable as lip syncing was in Beyoncé’s case—hell, I would have lip synced to Beyoncé’s voice, too—it can still be hard to reconcile the ineffability of enjoyment with the nuts and bolts that enable us to consume it reliably. That’s what makes the
* NYC exterminators know where the rats moved after Sandy: out of the subways and into apartment walls. * Scientology leader's niece on growing up, hauling rocks, making fake vitamin packets. * An oral history of YOLO, which dates back to the 19th century. * Californians look to brain retraining in hopes
Even in the most forsaken corners of the Caucasus, daily life can boil down to domestic turmoil, hip-hop videos, and arguing over Bryan Adams’s nationality.
* World Resources Institute offers tip for Obama on how to reduce U.S. emissions: Enact new standards for existing power plants. * U.S. Postal Service to end Saturday delivery as fix for its financial woes—which appears to be a legal solution, technically. * Most common job for American women is
* Picking apart the case for drones against Americans. * The presence of armed drones in Germany's arsenal would come in handy the next time a NATO ally requests backup. * How the Taliban is using promises of sex as a tool for recruitment. * Ted Cruz of Texas is now the
Pad Thai is the most misunderstood noodle. Its best incarnations are difficult to find outside of Thailand, even as the basic ingredients are now readily available abroad. I think back to the Pad Thais of my childhood, freshly made at a Bangkok street stall and packaged to go in banana
* French claim killing "hundreds" of Islamist militants in Mali ahead of next month's withdrawal. * Confidential memo says the U.S. can kill American citizens if they're believed to be senior members of al-Qaida or an “associated force.” * North Korea releases video showing nuclear destruction
When your life is opened in front of you, all your old attachments shucked off, the task of finding a new ending can be as simple as handing over a bag of guns.
* A proposed think tank, the Center for the Study of Existential Risk, would study scenarios that result in the end of humanity. * Sedentary lifestyles reduce sperm counts—as does running in tight clothing and too much time on a bike. * Qantas asks passenger to remove T-shirt bearing an Inigio Montoya
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Selections from the monumental but unknown “Illustrations of the Nests and Eggs of Birds of Ohio,” an amateur’s attempt to illustrate the nests and eggs omitted from John James Audubon’s “Birds of America.”
* Ahmadinejad says he's ready to be the first human sent into orbit by Iran's space program. * Economist debuts interactive Big Mac Index, a tool "to make exchange-rate theory more digestible." * Tyler Cowen reads every word in a late December issue of India Today. * Celiac
* It was a lovely photograph, but there is a sense of privacy in a moment like that, and they didn't ask. * How the ancient Greeks viewed weapons. * Hemingway probably never wrote the six-word story "for sale, baby shoes, never worn." * British jails identify food distributor that
Timbuktu’s annual Festival in the Desert was ready to rock as a “Festival in Exile.” Now, with liberation, it is a festival in limbo. A listening guide to what should be heard outside Timbuktu when the fighting is over.
* Since President Obama took office, the U.S. has executed more than 300 covert drone attacks in Pakistan; now the drones are coming home. * Worth remembering: If Canada exploits its tar sands' oil, and we do nothing, it will be game over for the climate. * In New York, 65%
* Der Spiegel: Germany's continued failure to return Nazi-looted property is "a moral disaster." * After flubbing a Holocaust question on TV, Russian twins visit Auschwitz. * Author Teddy Wayne records a cover version of a song written by a character in his new novel. * National Review columnists discuss
Sometimes covers of songs can feel more genuine than the original recorded versions. At a time when “Glee” is under fire for stealing covers and Justin Bieber is covering himself, one author tries his hand at covering a fictional musician from his new novel.
* Fourteen-year-old student wounded in a shooting yesterday outside a middle school in Atlanta. * Fifteen-year-old honors student, shot and killed after school on Tuesday, previously starred in a video urging fellow students to avoid gangs. * Study: "Stand your ground" gun laws increase manslaughters and murders by eight percent. * Rolling
On the eve of the Super Bowl I am exhausted by football. This season has been the first in a long time during which I’ve watched games consistently, week after week. When I was much younger, Monday Night Football was a ritualized treat: my father, my grandfather and I
Incidentally, I happen to have a cold, which is apparently much less interesting to the New York Times. What is interesting, however, is this collection of five wonderful pieces about sickness and health—ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad,
* Breakdown of recent arguments around a favorite conservative concept: the hidden prosperity of the poor. * Photos from Hillary Clinton's 956,733 miles traveled as secretary of state. * Chinese court finds two Tibetans guilty of urging self-immolation, sentences one to death, the other to prison for 10 years. * To
Ever since Lance Armstrong told Oprah about his persistent doping, lying, and just plain being mean, celebrities are lining up for their own public confessions. Starting with “Breaking Bad’s” Walter White.
* While Giffords and the NRA's LaPierre addressed the Senate, another mass shooting took place in Arizona. * NRA admits it doesn't support the idea of extending background checks to gun shows. * As of 1998, for every time a woman used a handgun to kill in self-defense, 101
The year was 1989. The place: Lake Compounce amusement park in Bristol, Conn. Two young warlocks named Rob Pilatus and Fab Morvan were performing a complicated lip-sync with their coven, Milli Vanilli, when there was a problem with their backing track—the music skipped, and Rob and Fab momentarily faltered
* Updated Google Maps of North Korea reveal gulags, nuclear complex. * Related: "North Korea Won't Be Liberated in a Day" by Mike Deri Smith. * More of 2012 best nonfiction in Conor Friedersdorf's annual journalism roundup. * Why Palestine should take Israel to the International Criminal Court
Even if you grow up crushing on the jets in Top Gun—and not Tom Cruise—it can be tough to preserve a dream of defending your country from a plane. But some girls do.
* Brief guide to players, groups, and motivating factors in Mali's political crisis. * Four issues about "securing the border" that won't figure in the debate—like increased drug trafficking not leading to "spillover" violence. * Brazil's nightclub tragedy—230 dead—has some
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* Since the Sandy Hook massacre in Newtown, 1,318 people killed by gun violence. * Israel admits it has been giving Ethiopian Jewish immigrants birth-control injections, often without their knowledge or consent. * Union membership is at a 97-year low in the United States: 11.3 percent. * Rapper Rick Ross, whose act
* Despite its military success, France's go-it-alone approach in Mali spells grim news for Europe's future. * City of Dijon sells off half its prized municipal wine cellar to help fund local social spending. * Uproar in France after Sarkozy's son gets law professor job at top
* Jobs go begging in Chinese factories when university graduates believe the labor is beneath them. * Paintings of daily life in Greece under austerity measures. * For doomsday preppers who will need to escape New York City, the contents of one well-packed "bug-out bag." * Related: Ralph Gamelli identifies the doomsayers
Everyday scenes of Greece in paintings that evoke the quiet fatigue from living with economic uncertainty.
* Bipartisan gang of eight senators to present immigration-reform bill today. * TMN's Mike Deri Smith investigates fake consumer reviews online, outsourced to freelancers on an industrial scale. * Marine captain on "moral injury." * Obama sits down for the New Republic reboot, says he'd like the NCAA
But, in the interest of looking forward, here are four stories about predicting the future. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Because nobody wants to rock the boat, the RNC is sticking with the chairman who ruined 2012 for them. * Rarely seen outside North Korea, the stunningly synchronized Arirang mass games transform 50,000 teenagers into "living pixels." * Whether Beyoncé lip-synched is a scandal because it calls into question
The week between the Conference Championships and the Super Bowl is host to a nonsense event known as the Pro Bowl. Though it’s literally an exhibition game in which the best players from the AFC face off against the best from the NFC, functionally it’s a football photo
The NFL is an emperor with no clothes, no morals, and vaults of gold. As we prepare for Super Bowl XLVII, author Dave Zirin explains how greed and corruption have ruined the game, endangered players, and fleeced the public.
* "Bitterly cold conditions" expected to continue across much of the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast. * Astonishing pictures of Chicago's freezing fire. * Everything you need to know about snowflake shapes comes from a scientist in Southern California. * Audio experts explain why it's clear that Beyoncé didn&
* GOP hatches plan to award electoral votes by Congressional district outcomes—which would have resulted in a Romney victory. * One of Obama's reelection engineers launches effort to turn Texas blue—which would effectively end the Republican Party. * A dispatch from the Disinaugural Ball. * Audio engineer says Beyoncé'
More than a decade after the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan—now our longest war—most Americans still know next to nothing about the people who live there, and the liberties denied them. Lessons from a rapid education.
* Since Sandy Hook, there have been at least 1,173 gun deaths in America. * Pentagon to remove ban on female service members in combat roles, based on women’s valor in Iraq and Afghanistan. * Navies still having trouble on that front underwater—42 countries use submarines, but only six allow
It was nice, for a while, imagining that love is real. Remember when we knew they were together but they were playing coy? Selena telling Ellen that Justin was like a little brother. (Yeah, a SEXY little brother.) Remember when they almost kissed in that “Call Me Maybe” fan vid?
One of my earliest memories involves a table on fire. I was no more than three or four years old, and I was celebrating some occasion with the paternal side of my family at a Bangkok restaurant. In the middle of the lunch, someone knocked over a gel-fuel buffet warmer
* NIH to permanently retire almost all of its 451 research chimpanzees. * Scientists say oxytocin—not blood relation or sex—is behind cooperation among chimp populations. * Food detective find fake ingredients in grocery-store products. * Restaurants are asking diners to stop photographing their food. * Premier chefs agree that to eliminate hunger, teach
A mouth guard can do more than save our enamel from nighttime gnashing. It may also shield us from our daily anxieties.
* Taliban says Prince Harry has "mental problems" for comparing his role in killing militants to playing video games. * Experiments that involve puppets suggest infants have an instinct to prefer good over evil. * The U.S. is only the 85th most diverse country in the world; Canada ranks first.
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* A young reporter who has covered only President Obama's first term has already witnessed several political epochs. * How conspiracy theorists heard the inaugural speech. * A timeline of Lupe Fiasco's obsession with conspiracy theories. * LED bulbs' durability threatens manufacturer profits: Long-lasting bulbs reduce the need to
* Obama's speech readies nation for February's state-of-the-union address by putting climate change center stage. * Studies to measure fracking's effects on public health are unavailable because pro-business state governments won't fund them. * "In Focus" selection of photographs from the second inauguration.
The great American wilderness is home to hungry stomachs, including some that reside in animals weighing 600 pounds more than you.
* Fifty percent of Americans are happy to see Obama sworn in, down from nearly 7 out of 10 in 2009. * The first and scariest inaugural address, John Winthrop's "city on a hill" speech, was actually about encouraging charity. * Brief history of inaugural poems. * Ezra Stoller'
Pictures of post-war America—views of factories, construction sites, and printing plants—drawn from the career of Ezra Stoller, one of the world’s first and best architectural photographers.
* Obama to take the oath of office this morning for the second time—an honor granted only to 16 men before him. * Actually, Obama took the oath yesterday and didn't screw it up. * Fox News to shut down for routine maintenance at 11:30 a.m. and will
* Al Qaeda is alive and fairly well in Africa, but the U.S. must pick its battles in pursuit. * The Onion is publishing a Biden biography—The President of Vice—whether he wants one or not. * Stories longer than 2,000 words are down 86% at the LAT since 2003,
The line to speak with a consular official is never so long as when you’re studying 19th-century philosophy and everything you desire exists on the other side of an ocean.
* Geographic location is unimportant; however, a reliable internet connection is essential to the job. * The daily work for this position is unpaid, but you will be compensated for any articles or other content you write. * Many interns are selected to join our editorial staff at the end of their internships.
* Poll finds wide support, even among gun owners, for several of Obama's specific gun-control measures. * Inventory of the clothes and equipment you throw on before going out to kill Osama bin Laden. * Round-up, with fact-checking, of Armstrong's confessions, plus online reactions from the cycling community. * He
Perspective is everything. If you’re just tuning into football now, this year’s conference match-ups look fairly predictable: After all, three of the four teams who squared off last year—the Patriots, the Ravens, and the 49ers—are once again competing for a chance to go to the Super
Originally conceived as a commentary on Britain’s class system, the series grew along with the children into a bigger and more complex exploration of humanity. To mark the latest installment, here are four stories about growing up, both physically and emotionally—plus Jonathan Bell’s examination of the series.
* Oral history of Obama's first term. * On Friday, Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah made history when he named 30 women to the kingdom's Shura Council. * More lethal than drones are drones that can make their own decisions—what we can expect when they reach the
The White House recently turned down a petition to build a Death Star. More responses from the official rejection pile.
* Lucid summary of the crisis in Mali, France's intervention, and neighbors' reactions. * Gun groups threaten to oust, "with both barrels," any Democratic senators who vote to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. * Prime minister explains how Australians banned assault weapons and dramatically improved their country.
For every baby in your life, you had to endure nine months of updates. We’re pregnant! We’re getting the room ready! It’s a boy, or whatever! We’re already so tired! We’re registered at Target, go buy the baby a bunch of stuff and participate in
Each year in the tournament, 16 works of fiction battle each other in daily contests to win that vaunted literary prize, The Rooster. Along the way, victors advance and losers fall. But there’s a twist. During the semifinal match, called the Zombie Round, two books that were previously ousted—
* Obama announces gun control measures: assault weapons ban, high-capacity magazine limits, expanded background checks. * Sixteen years after former vagrant Steve Stockman was elected to Congress, he's back and bringing the crazy to the gun debate. * The Edge releases the answers to this year's annual question: "
Our man in Boston sits down for an extended chat with author Joan Wickersham about her new story collection, lurking near architects, the wisdom of good editors, how to profit from artist colonies, and the benefits of avoiding the MFA trap.
* Religious leaders protest in Washington, saying politicians can't be relied upon to save us from climate change. * Survey of economists finds broad agreement that politicians can't be trusted with the debt ceiling. * Democrats and Republicans say there's virtually no chance they'll pass
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* If January has been any indication, Biden is poised for a far more influential role in the administration's second term. * White House responds to secession petitions. * Clarence Thomas breaks seven-year silence to make fun of Yale Law School. * How they must bleed for us. In 2012, the world&
* Obama to announce comprehensive gun-control plan, with 19 separate actions he could take alone. * Since the Newtown massacre, 836 Americans have been killed by gun violence. * Round-up of national gun-control action—measures being considered, fights being fought, and issues up for debate. * Glickman: We must recognize that many Americans view
* How to fix India's male-superiority complex. * Photos find the link between India's textile and dance traditions. * Report from the beheading of a Sri Lankan maid in Saudi Arabia, where sexual abuse of domestic workers "seems not uncommon." * Llewellyn Hinkes-Jones, "Privatized Prisons: A Human
Photos that meditate on the link between fabric and movement in India’s textile and dance traditions.
* France says its military intervention in Mali is "developing favorably," and it has no intention of "staying forever." * Footage of 340,000 who marched in Paris against gay marriage. * Norwegian Seafood Council ad campaign features performers who act out sushi recipes with dance. * Far-away photographs of
* How the UN created a cholera epidemic after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti—and then covered it up. * A week after leaving Haiti, Elizabeth Kiem felt the earthquake hit. * Every national anthem in the world played simultaneously. * Americans experience higher rates of disease and injury and die sooner than people
* Extreme weather events increasing in intensity as well as frequency around the world. * Pictures of play and rescue during recent wintry weather in the Middle East. * Iran pledges to produce its own version of Argo, "which lacks a proper view of historical events." * In case you missed it:
To call football predictable is to call it brutal. The things you can count on in a football game, in a football season, always seem to reflect the ugliest aspects of the sport: An underdog will be demolished; a player will be hurt; a brief career will end in disappointment
If you’re about to gnaw your arm off, why not take a break from the carrot sticks and sate your appetite with four delicious stories about food? Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* In a rebuke of the steroid era, no one is elected to baseball's Hall of Fame—the second time in 43 years. * Kevin Guilfoile exposes the rampant use of performance-enhancing drugs among famous playwrights. * A new report finds as much as half of all the world's
* Profiles of five senators who will play key roles in determining the fate of any gun legislation * As the guns debate heats up, it's useful to remember Godwin's Law of Nazi Analogies. * Studies show the rise and fall in crime follows a rise and fall in
A happy cul de sac experiences its first affair. Soon every living room—every computer screen—reverberates with news bulletins. Even for the Facebook generation, divorce comes with surprises.
* Virginia's governor wants to remove the state's gas tax and begin taxing alternative-fuel cars. * The world's largest scale model of the solar system actually covers all of Sweden. * Map of the best and worst countries to be born into today. * Writer calls Richard Marx
After frequenting a local haunt where nobody knows his name, a Chicago writer makes new friends, rips on Richard Marx online, and then suddenly lands a real live celebrity musician at their door.
* This past year was the hottest ever recorded in the U.S., and the second-worst on the Climate Extremes Index. * Australia's Bureau of Meteorology adds an extra color code at the top end of the temperature scale. * Tennis players protest being forced to play in Australia's
* Photojournalist captures images of modern slavery. * If emancipation did in fact begin long before...Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, what changed on that day? * Venezuelan police raid the home of a Twitter user suspected of spreading rumors about Chávez's health. * Kuwaiti court sentences man to two years in
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* White House photographer Pete Souza releases a year of pictures with the First Family. * Dozens of environmental and health groups urge Obama to finally and firmly address climate change. * Forced to resign by a financial scandal, Berlusconi is running for office again, this time for finance minister, or even prime
All parents like to believe their children are special. But horse breeders know better: Progeny can be unique, but for very particular reasons. How to be more honest about your offspring and their ability to finish in the money.
* The White House is plotting a surprisingly broad and aggressive gun control agenda. * A society that is relying on guys with guns to stop violence is a sign of a society where institutions have broken down. * How weapon technology like biometrics and grip detection could help prevent future massacres. * Math-based
Excerpts from an illustrated memoir of love and mourning after an artist loses his wife to a tragic accident.
* Obama to nominate counter-terrorism advisor John Brennan as next director of the CIA. * First CIA officer faces prison for a press leak—"one of an unprecedented string of six prosecutions under President Obama." * Ethical questions appear when patients with dementia find romance in nursing homes, and spouses outside
* As Sandy Hook students head back to class, school officials create a familiar, friendly environment. * Chris Ware on his latest New Yorker cover, inspired by Newtown and a sharp contrast to his back-to-school cover. * On Christmas Day 1945, five Fayetteville, W.Va., children went missing during a house fire—no
Our man in Boston sits down for an extended chat with the author of Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, covering Kissinger's travel woes, the beauty of track meets, and the very best place to be a fiction writer in America: Dallas.
* Hard-line conservatives oppose or go mum during Boehner's reelection as House speaker. * Six Indian parliamentarians have charges of rape against them. * "There is no reason to think that India is destined to abuse women"—but the journey will be a long one. * Pakistani schoolgirl activist shot
And then there were 12. If nothing else, the beginning of playoff season makes the task of a football fan easier: There are only four games this weekend. Pick a team you don’t hate, and settle in for four weeks that will end in heartbreak. This is the wild
Depardieu has not responded to the offer thus far. Perhaps he’s still thinking about it. To help him make up his mind, we present Elizabeth Kiem’s excellent “Reading Roulette” series, highlighting emerging Russian writers—ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to
J. Y. Strain lives and works in Bloomington, Ill. This poem is dedicated “for my brother, regarding his ride.” I’d Like to See You at Thanksgiving If you wanna go Grand Prix there’s some things you gotta know. Digest this holiday plea: Get rid of that Mitsubitchi. You
* After nearly 30 years in the House, Rep. Gary L. Ackerman heads home. * Once thought to be eradicated, tuberculosis—now drug-resistant—is on a frighteningly sharp rise in the former Soviet bloc. * How free-market renegades fighting the "maple wars" stole six million pounds of maple syrup. * A city
A young crooner’s untimely, macabre death left questions for those who would follow—musicians and fans alike. Was it suicide? Was it a hit? A listener's query into one star's place in the history of early rock and roll.
* As fighting continues, new UN report says 60,000 have been killed in Syria's war. * Predictions for events in 2013. * Four hundred and nine people have been killed by guns in the U.S. since Newtown. * In case you heard about the LAPD buying back rocket launchers, it
* Gunshot wound survivors tell their stories on Reddit. * Over the winter break, schoolteachers learned how to shoot guns. * Home schooling in the U.S. is growing, and it's not just religious families who are doing it. * The divisive, conflicted history of the Montessori system in the U.S.
Already 2013 has seen America drive off the fiscal cliff, only to freeze momentarily, then either reverse in mid-air or drop straight into the canyon—depending on how you look at it. Here's more of what to expect over the next 12 months.
* House passes bill to avoid fiscal cliff, but faces debt-ceiling and sequester debates. * Just a few years ago, the tax deal pushed through Congress on Tuesday would have been a Republican fiscal fantasy. * Survey of highlights from the fight, including Boehner telling Reid, "Go fuck yourself." * French panel
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We asked Paul to choose his favorite articles published on TMN in 2012. We had a pretty good year, we like to think: Many stories we loved, many reprints and nods elsewhere, citations in “Best American Essays,” finalist at the Online Journalism Awards… But now you can tell we’ve
* Charity Navigator's top 10 lists of various charities' achievements and embarrassments. * See also: Best Practices of Savvy Donors. * Cunningham Children's Home offers healing to young people with serious emotional and behavioral disabilities. * The Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill, NC—a beacon of hope for
'Twas the day before Christmas, when all through the house still no presents were purchased—again, you're a louse. Gift ideas for the ungifted.
* Schwarzenegger bicycles Venice Beach just to inhale stray smoke, and other notes on weed in California. * Overview of "sea change" taking place globally toward gay marriage. * In case this applies to your late-December plans somehow: Is he cute or is he British? * French consumer trends of 2012. * Engineer
We gathered writers and thinkers to consider everything that happened over the past 12 months and asked them: What were the most important events of 2012—and what were the least?
If you’re looking for evidence of that famous American spirit of innovation, avoid football. It’s a stodgy sport governed by a conservative league. Theorists of American football have largely rested on their laurels since the invention of the forward pass over 100 years ago. Has the game evolved
* One in eight Americans believed the world would end today. * Portraits of people preparing for the Mayan doomsday, and/or the end of civilization. * Chart shows dates when the world was predicted to end by various prognosticators. * The Times goes big and interactive on the Stevens Pass avalanche at Tunnel
* North Korea assessed one year later, where the new Kim is thriving, though loose nukes loom. * In case you forgot: Photographs of the Syrian civil war. * Now that more and more Mexicans sport the label “middle class,” fashionistas are vying to clothe them. * List of trash humans have left behind
The ides of March may be four months away, but a certain rooster is sick of waiting. Introducing the finalists and judges for TMN's ninth annual Tournament of Books, presented by NOOK® by Barnes & Noble.
* Obama vows swift action on gun control; Republicans stick to NRA talking point, saying now is not the time. * Details about recent cases and lives lost to guns in Tennessee, Kansas, Nevada, Alabama, and Missouri. * The view from Germany: [Newtown] was no uncontrollable natural disaster. * Professor tweets about wanting NRA
For 12 years, I have lived in the Catskill Mountains, which means living with bears. When we first moved here from Manhattan, my wife, my daughter, and I rented an apartment in the hamlet of Shandaken. This was in a former boarding house used to train prizefighters, in an isolated
* Obama is Time's person of the year, followed by a 15-year-old girl. * French psychologist convicted of manslaughter after her patient killed his grandmother. * Therapist explains what it's like to experience a midlife crisis—as a therapist. * Picture of the president composing his Newtown speech during his
A year's worth of music listening, whittled down to the core. Because in the end, there can be only 10.
* Obama to announce that Biden will lead the effort to reform gun laws. * NRA announces major press conference in DC for Friday. * First funerals in Newtown. * White House behavioral analysis as Obama chooses how to address Sandy, Latino turnout, and Newtown. * "Putin’s Arms Dealers Are Selling More Weapons
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* Boehner goes alone on "fiscal cliff" deal, introducing back-up plan. * [The Republican] party is a threat to democratic discourse and to fiscal sanity. Their ideological mania knows no prudential restraint at all. * Even in gun circles, Freedom Group's industry domination is a mystery. * Argument for using
Christmas is a time for family and friends and very weird songs that only get played once a year. Eleven holiday songs researched and fact-checked to explain their appeal, including the mystery behind endorphins solely released by Mariah Carey.
* Mike Bloomberg's six steps for Obama and Congress to improve gun control. * Private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management to begin selling its investment in gunmaker Freedom Group after Newtown shooting. * NRA goes silent on social media and appears to have yanked its Facebook page. * Alan Taylor's
This is it, friends—the last round of our Reading Roulette series of contemporary Russian literature in translation, with one shot left in the chamber. But we’ve saved the best for last.
* Newtown recently underwent a civic battle between traditional hunters and assault weapon enthusiasts. * Liberty entails precisely the freedom to offend. A gun in every pocket would stifle that. * The gun control that works: no guns. And that will never pass in America. * What happens when you're Facebook friends
* Obama: "Are we really prepared to say we are powerless in the face of such carnage?" * Bloomberg: "If [Obama] does nothing during his second term, something like 48,000 Americans will be killed with illegal guns." * Round-up of the best reporting on guns in America. * The
* In eight years the U.S. will be a major energy exporter. * Researchers believe Olympian lifespans—2.8 years longer on average—could be possible for mere mortals. * Abu Dhabi takes on its burgeoning obesity and diabetes epidemic. * What's wrong with the wheat you're eating: It&
This is the essay for your community college poetry class, the essay that encapsulates your thoughts on the assigned work in written form, the essay you started this morning, the essay that is due today.
* With more than 26,000 petitioners, White House will address a request for construction of a Death Star. * Acronym of the week: the FUKUS coalition—France, UK, and U.S. together recognizing Syrian rebels. * Next year should be one of great progress in the “steady, slow boring stuff” of anti-corruption
I am a pretty casual football fan, and the tell is that I usually know at least a few things about any given team’s quarterback, and almost nothing about any of the other players. The quarterback is visible; his stats are comprehensible; his job is easily explicable. My sins
Still, so many people dread the holidays that it seems appropriate to consider Doomsday scenarios. Here are five stories about the apocalypse—or lack thereof—ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Joe Lieberman's lonely departure. * A map of the probable range and accuracy of North Korea's missiles. * An informal network of astronomers tracks near-Earth asteroids—but nobody knows who's going to stop one from making impact. * Mike Deri Smith consults with disaster experts to find
* Russian government admits Syria may lose battle to rebel forces. * Sweden "coughs up" thousands of migrant workers for Norway, where they're widely mocked. * Poynter's annual list of the worst media errors of the year. * Chris Heath on one Greek politician attacking another on TV,
You witness an incident occur directly in front of you. You see every detail. There's time to help—but should you get involved? A handy guide for photographers.
* How the U.S. let industry pollute its underground water supply. * Medical evidence continues to prove daily aspirin can help prevent cardiovascular disease and even cancer—why aren't more people taking it? * Study suggests women who are light smokers—smoking even one cigarette a day—double their chance
Predicting the weather is an incredibly complicated task. Stopping it altogether is even more difficult—but that doesn't mean scientists aren't trying. Obsession, cloud seeding, and very powerful storms.
* White House recognizes Syrian rebels and seeks greater influence. * Homeland, Obama's show. * The idea that political views have a genetic component is now widely accepted, and has its own field: "genopolitics." * Philosopher goes anti-natalist, rebelling against notion that philosophers must be parents first. * Economist addresses whether
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* Spending earned political capital in a new way, Obama's "permacampaign" could change Washington from the outside. * The UN wants control of the internet to ensure member nations' security—but it's not possible. * Afghan design student creates wind-powered spheres that detonate land mines. * HSBC
I forwarded a check from my parents to my daughter, Sylvia, who is a senior at Bard College. (A gift at Hanukkah is known as “gelt.”) Along with the money, I sent the following letter. Sylvia: Enclosed is a check from my parents, consisting of “Hanukkah gelt.” (Suddenly it occurs
It’s easy to hate Starbucks until you admit it’s responsible for nearly everything good in today’s coffee culture. Now the behemoth is poised, with a recent acquisition, to introduce America to hundreds of years of tea culture. A tea maker is grateful.
* Cairo prepares for rival rallies ahead of a referendum ordered by President Morsi. * New Gazan cologne, M-75, named after Hamas' rockets, costs twice as much as other perfumes. * Genomic study confirms Europe's Roma came from a single group that left India "about 1,500 years ago.
* South Korean musician Psy apologizes for rapping about killing American torturers. * Psychologists try to use brain science to "cure" boredom. * The true meaning of Hanukkah—war, resilience, hope—is better for being complicated. * "Mysterious monkey in posh miniature winter coat found alone at Toronto Ikea." * From
Started in 2001, a 10-year study of London’s bus stops, photographs that resemble Renaissance tableaus—brief congregations of people never to be repeated.
* Researchers find biological parents are four times less at risk of premature death. * The death rate of many of the biggest and oldest trees around the world is increasing rapidly. * Drug makers are working like pathogens, sharing information in new efforts to stay ahead of antibiotic-resistant infections. * Still a long
In other news, Voyager I, the space probe launched in 1977, may finally be crossing the boundary between the solar system and interstellar space. To celebrate mankind’s wanderlust, here is a collection of some of TMN’s best and most exotic travel writing, ready to read here on TMN
* We should be more concerned about Assad's use of nerve agents than chemical weapons. * One year later, the story of a fire that killed three girls in a Stamford home on Christmas still haunts. * WNYC continues its profiles of children killed in 2012 by gunfire in New York
Technology is moving so fast, it's easy to overlook that what's to come is already right in front of us. Stop for a moment, and you'll see the future.
* New interactive tool lets you choose your own Israeli-Palestinian peace solution. * Blessed be the internet: International relations as depicted by cats. * Casino owner Adelson to double his $100 million investment in GOP causes by the next election. * Report on the shady business of "honey laundering"—global fraud running
There are some weeks when writing about football seems more than usually frivolous, and this is one of them. Always, one feels self-serious analyzing what is, after all, “just a game” using war metaphors and hyperbole like “heartbreaking,” “tragedy,” and “agony.” At the same time, one feels guilty enjoying and
* To China, the United States appears much as Great Britain did to Americans two centuries ago. * Obama's data director assures Americans he's not Big Brother. * AOL's history told through New York Times crossword clues. * Today in odd news: Apparently, Kim Jong-Il had a Palestinian
Tony Kushner appeared at Temple Emanuel in Kingston, N.Y., two Sundays ago. He didn’t give a speech; he was interviewed by another playwright, Rinne Groff. Kushner has the prosperous, worried, intelligent air of an MD—except that he also looks famous. When you observe his elongated face and
Manhattan is rife with lumberjacks, Los Angeles is hot for Appalachia, and the latest trend in pornography is cabins. Yes, cabins. But when a woman leaves New York for a log structure of her own, a metamorphosis occurs.
* Best photographs from 2012 as chosen by Alan Taylor's "In Focus" (part 1 of 3). * Washington state begins issuing same-sex marriage licenses today. * Lessons from Europe on how to create a healthy deficit reduction program. * Battles in Cairo when Morsi supporters attack protesters camped outside the
This contest is now closed. Thank you to all who entered. The ninth annual Tournament of Books is right around the corner. Since it keeps working out so well (e.g., reader judge Roxy Reno’s contribution last year), we’re running a contest again to find a TMN reader
* Even the White House wanted tighter restrictions on drones, in case the program fell into the wrong hands: Romney's. * Russia's current political climate: "Everyone knows (and has evidence) that everyone else has been skimming money." * New York real estate developers continue to ignore risks,
* Death toll from southern Philippines typhoon passes 270. * Insourcing boom: General Electric and others begin returning manufacturing to the United States. * Republican leaders punish Tea Party loyalists and other back-benchers. * In case you needed another reason to hate Congressional Republicans: Meet the Sovereigntists. * Obama considering Vogue's Anna Wintour
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* In the years since Howard Dean's quick rise and quicker fall, the left has embraced a model of campaign that's fueled by data. * Roddick faces Murray in exhibition match. * The story so far: On the lam, John McAfee claims to be wearing disguises, maintaining sobriety, and
* Al-Qaeda affiliate in Yemen crucifies, amputates, and tortures, and also provides public services. * Bahrain's embrace of a Kardashian is part of a larger effort to shift news coverage away from protest marches. * Facebook's Chris Hughes, now owner-editor of the New Republic, represents "a savior from
Oh look, it's the holidays and time to interact with humans again. Thankfully, there are board games to facilitate or replace conversation. Here are 10 of the year's best to get you started.
* Humanitarian adventure journalist David Oliver Relin, co-author of Three Cups of Tea, dies at 49. * Paul Ford on how the contemporary Authentocracy is ruling your happiness. * On unfinished novels: "The fatal flaw in all them was my abysmal plot-developing skills." * Two years ago, an LA man abandoned his
Plenty of artists take inspiration from Google Maps. But Arden Bendler Browning’s abstractions of urban landscapes convince us the city—riotous and tamed, growing and decaying—is more alive than we think.
* Britain and France to protest Israel's decision to approve new homes in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. * Q&A with Guy Delisle on his fantastic travel comic Jerusalem: Chronicles From the Holy City. * Homeless man, famous for receiving boots from New York cop, is shoeless again
* China extends stop-and-board rights to most of the South China Sea—far from the mainland, the waters are already claimed by other nations. * Sandy evacuees housed in NYC hotels prepare to transfer to more permanent temporary arrangements. * The overall U.S. birth rate decreased by 8% between 2007-10, and by
In 2008, TMN’s Todd Levin traced his life in gaming from the pixelated ’80s to the first-person-shooter present in his series “Consoles I Have Known,” ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
When Joe Montana took his last snap as a 49er, in the final game of the 1992 regular season, I was a quiet five-year-old living in the southernmost reaches of the Bay Area. Montana came on during the second half, after an injury-forced hiatus of nearly two full seasons. He
* UN votes to recognize Palestine as a "non-member observer state," same as the Vatican. * John Kerry receives unqualified support for Secretary of State job, though from Republicans, not his own partymates. * Seal for the State Dept.'s Policy Planning Staff includes slogan, "Avoid Trivia." * Samuel
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, advice for a lovelorn atheist who wants to know if a Christian could love him back.
* Today Syria disconnected from the internet. * Another hardship for coastal residents in New York and New Jersey: mandatory flood insurance. * Climate change in the kitchen. * Tumblr of the day: Eating Carefully. * They're convinced that it just so happens that their self-interest coincides perfectly with the collective interest. * Doctors
Our man in Boston talks to screenwriter and novelist Attica Locke about writing in Hollywood, the origins of her second novel, and where exactly British prisoners locate the moral heart of The Wire.
* On Monday, New York City passed a day without a single report of a person being subject to violent crime. * Time-lapse movie of leaves changing color in Central Park. * Mitt Romney to eat lunch at the White House today. * Slightly awkward WikiHow guide to filling awkward silences. * Moscow court demands
* By the numbers: Hurricane Katrina versus post-tropical cyclone Sandy. * Sea levels rising faster than earlier projections. * Mapmakers delete an island that never existed and whose origins date to 1875. * If every U.S. state declared war against the others, which would win? * Painful memories surface while raising an Irgun Jewish
* Obama launches PR campaign to avoid the fiscal cliff, escalating an already tense negotiating atmosphere. * Anti-semitism of senior Hungarian politician viewed as "old school" compared to more contemporary hatred of Islam and immigrants. * Tales from the contemporary American West, where extreme weather is a killer. * Dog-sledding across Russia
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I don’t have a TV set, but I visit my parents from time to time, and their television provides me with modernistic experiences. The other day my favorite Mamas and the Papas song rang forth, on a commercial—“Go Where You Wanna Go”: You’ve got to go where
* Despite national losses, Republicans won supermajorities in statehouses across the South and Great Plains. * Don't believe Call of Duty: There won't be a cold war between China and the U.S. over rare earth minerals. * China's Communist Party newspaper congratulates Kim Jong-un on being
* U.S. fiscal cliff and eurozone debt crisis viewed as biggest risks to the global economy. * Afghanistan veteran learns how to use a prosthetic arm. * Israel Defense Forces' PR rep poses in blackface, calling it "Obama style." * Colbert on the biggest problem with Homeland: Everyone gets terrific
How do you see what mushers see? You mush. An adventure on the Beringia, a dog sled race stretching over Russia’s easternmost tundra. If in the process you see more than you ever expected—more of humanity, more of yourself—then thank the people of 685 miles of snow.
* Interactive: See which U.S. metro coastal areas may someday be underwater. * A result of fossil fuel burning, ocean acidification is withering the marine food chain. * British code breakers can't crack a handwritten message found on a WWII carrier pigeon. * The idea of a New York City mayoral
Darkness in photography is often undervalued. A Dutch photographer’s vision that’s built on erosion, reflections, and shades of gray.
* Congo again slips into chaos and war, though ruthless rebels prove to be capable administrators. * Portraits of Sandy survivors in storm-ravaged Staten Island. * Whether in 50 or 100 or 200 years, there’s a good chance that New York City will sink beneath the sea. * Considering overpopulation and the end
* Rubio not so deftly dodges a creationism question—just like Sen. Barack Obama once did. * Obama campaign adviser explains our broken voting system and why you had to wait in line for eight hours. * As domestic U.S. flights are cut en masse, the best solution is more competition: Let
* "Middle East Conflict Intensifies As Blah Blah Blah, Etc. Etc." * History of the sounds of war, from air raid sirens to the whirring of drones. * How and why Obama's foreign policy passed the Benghazi test. * An epidemic of penis theft swept Nigeria between 1975 and 1977.
* Republicans aren't ready to forgive Chris Christie for his post-Sandy embrace of Obama. * Veterans with PTSD seek the help of a South Carolina couple who are finding success with MDMA treatment. * Thieves with power saws steal, deface ancient California cliff carvings. * Amid controversy over bias toward the oil
The latest salvo from our Reading Roulette series of contemporary Russian literature—stories you'll rarely find elsewhere in translation, unfortunately. This month we bring you a contender for the Debut Prize, Russia’s preeminent award for young writers.
* Propaganda has been a part of every war; in Israel vs. Hamas, Instagram lets amateurs in on the action. * Egypt, Israel, Hamas close to reaching ceasefire deal. * Big pictures from a weekend of violent exchanges between Israel and Gaza. * Anderson Cooper is never too busy for a good burn on
* The data crunchers who won the 2012 election. * If you're so determined, how to hide email communication from prying eyes. * Related: Privacy Settings for Bigamists. * A challenge to Paris: Reclaim your sparkle. * Raymond Carver's OkCupid profile, edited by Gordon Lish. * Electronic tattoos, water purified with oil,
Inspired by depictions of motherhood in Norwegian historical novels, illustrator Carson Ellis hollows out a dream world made of joys and sorrows—familiar territory for many mothers.
* Death toll climbs in Israel-Hamas fight, with 91 Palestinians killed. * Conservatives in Wyoming—America's least populous state, 86% white—stunned by Romney's loss. * In Germany, Putin defends jailing Pussy Riot with baseless charges of anti-Semitism. * Customers hard to find for BBC sex-criminal star's old
* Avoiding bankruptcy and defaulting twice in 2012, the U.S. Postal Service reports a $16 billion annual loss. * Twinkies maker Hostess files motion to liquidate assets and sell off its brands. * Some other second-tier industrial bakery will...continue producing the Ding-Dong, and the Wonder Bread, and other crap nobody wants.
* Egypt's leaders vow to support Gaza against Israeli attacks. * "Petraeus is only the beginning," says Obama, promising second term full of Homeland-like twists. * James Carter IV digs up Lee Atwater's strategy for winning racist votes without sounding racist. * Money may not determine the winner
TMN contributor and musical omnivore Patrick Ambrose brings together my two favorite escapes: good tunes and good writing. If you, too, need to get away for a bit during the holiday, here are six of his musician profiles, ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can
I was so bored by last Sunday’s objectively thrilling Falcons-Saints game, I fell asleep. Never mind their storied rivalry; never mind the Saints’ surprising upset of the last undefeated team in the NFL. I don’t care about the excellent football I missed by dozing: That’s how powerfully
* BP to pay $4.5 billion in Deepwater Horizon oil spill settlement and plead guilty to 11 counts of felony misconduct. * Romney bookends his campaign with an apology to donors, blames the 47% for his loss. * Playboy talks with Stephen Colbert about staying alive and being funny, despite everything. * Kurt
These days, everyone seems to enjoy tending chickens and eating local. But lifestyles are rarely ways of life, and the grain that goes into our daily bread is still easiest to obtain from giant operations. Visiting a dying small farm shows why.
* Chuck Klosterman explains why some people believe he accidentally forced the resignation of the head of the CIA. * Petraeus's mistress's email password hacked in 17 hours with publicly available tools. * Three Israelis killed by rocket-fire from Gaza, where 11 Palestinians have died in air strikes. * Israel
* In upcoming fiscal talks, President Obama reaffirms campaign promise that he'll fight for the middle class. * When your boss is Obama—who doesn't relinquish big decisions—it doesn't matter who the next secretary of state is. * RedState addresses its readers: "Too many people
North Korea's prison camps are roundly condemned as heinous, but remain untouched. When an idealistic young reporter takes on a mission to help shut them down—bearing Hemingway and Vollmann in mind—he winds up on the doorstep of the Embassy of the People’s Democratic Republic of Korea.
* CIA publishes new informational brochure, “How to Tell if You’re Involved in the Petraeus Scandal.” * Handy flowchart guide to the Petraeus affair. * In Texas, 77,000 sign petition to secede from the union. * France's Hollande now bringing in a massive corporate tax rebate, warning the state will
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* U.S. to overtake Saudi Arabia as the world’s leading oil producer by about 2017. * Overview of what's happening at the BBC. * Newspaper reactions from 1909 when the English Channel was crossed in an aircraft for the very first time. * Berlusconi's latest showgirl gunning for
* Two weeks after Sandy, pockets of misery. * For those displaced by war, refugee camps are a recurring way of life—and worry for the young is constant. * What could save us from the fiscal cliff: Mitt Romney's plan to limit overall tax deductions. * Q&A with Al
* Fuel-efficiency rules and fracking will make the U.S. the world's largest oil exporter by 2020. * Horrific images from Syria in ruins—a reminder of how the civil war's brutality is worsening in places. * Another way to support Sandy victims: Donate your vacation time. * With dramatic
Ben Weiner’s paint-splattered palette isn’t just a tool, it’s the basis of his work: landscapes that magnify globs of oil paint a thousandfold and videos that turn the process of mixing paint into a slow ballet.
* During Sandy, 15 inmates escaped from a New Jersey halfway house when the power went down and the doors unlocked. * Ex-members of the Sri Lankan rebel army turn to garment factories for employment. * Large explosion damages 20 homes in Indianapolis neighborhood. * The saga of a man accused of murdering his
* The world can't have a Nate Silver. * Ready in case of a president-elect, Romney's full Secret Service detail quietly departed after his concession. * SEAL Team Six reprimanded for revealing classified information to video-game makers. * The man boycotting all Democrats listens to Oingo Boingo because they once
After Monday night’s humiliating 13-28 loss to the Saints, a 2-5 team that had been giving up, on average, over 30 points a game, the Eagles have a number of pressing concerns. But the challenges ahead for mustachioed head coach Andy Reid and his team pale in comparison to
* Obama's reelection all but guarantees healthcare legislation will survive, but disinformation needs to be corrected. * How two brothers busted a brutish Philly union and shifted decades of power—thanks in part to few viral videos. * Foxconn considers opening U.S. factories owing to rising labor costs in China.
A long-ignored home improvement project awaits. The tools and materials are at the ready, and there's nothing to stop you. Then enters a cat named Jeeves.
TMN editor Erik Bryan knows all about the New York the rest of us have forgotten. He’s spent the past year or so exploring the city’s roadside attractions, the living bits of history hiding in plain sight just beyond the city’s flashier landmarks. Here are five of
* Hours after winning reelection, the president phoned Congressional Republicans to begin the haul back from the fiscal cliff. * The fiscal cliff explained in three scenarios. * Fascinating: Why the first debate went so badly for Obama and how the campaign regained its footing. * Obama's mandate. * Also on the agenda
I went to California for a week, and when I returned, winter was here. Not deep winter, but introductory winter: the vestibule of winter. The leaves were off the trees, except for the small willow behind my house, whose leaves clung on like bedraggled confetti—the same confetti I saw
* Dem super-majority in California is a message to the GOP: What's broken will be fixed, demographics are changing. * Get to know the female senators and representatives. * Openly gay senator, Hindu in congress, demographic change in the Malia Generation aren't a problem, but an inevitability. * As handover
* The 1880s want their politics back. * With the reelection of President Obama, the U.S. will enjoy four more years of moderate Republicanism. * Mr. Obama will now have to govern the America he so relentlessly sought to divide. * Inside the Obama campaign's data-mining HQ. * Last night's
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* In case you didn't stay up: President Obama's victory speech. * Details of races and ballots state by state, including marijuana legalization in Washington and Colorado. * Foreign correspondents explain what impact Obama's second term will have for the rest of the world. * On-the-ground reports of
A series of imposing mountain ranges made from cornices of thick paint, ridges lightly shadowed, and humans hidden in the snow.
* Can we at least agree...that when it comes to voting itself the election of 2012 is a national disgrace? * The next president must face up to global human rights abuses—as candidates, they've ignored the issue. * Ian Frazier: "In America, we know better than to tax
One of the most striking differences between U.S. presidents is how they choose to stock the White House bar. From teetotalers to all-out drunks, a brief history of presidents and their preferred libations.
* Where voting no means voting yes to change: a survey of the most confusing ballots voters will face today. * To keep them accountable, a round-up of pundits' predictions. * Dear Young Conservative...I know what it is to be a young conservative. I was one. * An acid trip at a
* Watch: the grim situation in Staten Island. * The overall atmosphere was upbeat rather than depressing, but there was a very strong defiant air. * Donate from afar: an Amazon wish list for Staten Island Sandy relief supplies. * Photographer explains how he shot the half-illuminated New York cover. * Beautiful, long-exposure images from
When a Frankenstorm arrives from Haiti with destructive powers, the semi-professional student of zombie literature and history has a unique ability to perceive the arrival of end times. Welcome to America's new normal: the nonfictional apocalypse.
* Whether Romney wins or not, the GOP faces an internal civil war over demographics and radicals. * Latest Christoph Niemann column explains the electoral college in M&Ms. * If 16-year-olds want to vote, they should move to Argentina, or possibly Indonesia. * Want to use your need for sexual connection to
* Consider giving to the American Red Cross to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy. * Before Sandy unleashed its fury...there were people warning of this exact scenario, and they were only sometimes heard. * Federal budget cuts threaten the hurricane tracking capabilities that helped the East Coast prepare for Sandy. * Staten
Change is hard, for football teams no less than people. In fact, the only thing harder than making substantive changes may be convincing others that you’re really, truly different. My therapist says it’s possible. Still, it’s not hard to see why Chicago fans, after years of humiliation
* New issue of Bloomberg Businessweek gets it—"It's Global Warming, Stupid" means prepare for weather on steroids. * Related: The Bloomberg cover if you haven't seen it yet. * "Nation Suddenly Realizes This Just Going To Be A Thing That Happens From Now On."
In (hopefully) more lighthearted news, you may have also heard the story of little Abby Evans, a Colorado toddler who was so traumatized by the endless, aggressive presidential campaign that she burst into tears after hearing an NPR story about the race. We feel her pain, too, and so in
* Flooding certainly killed a lot of New York City's rats, but the most dominant members survived on the surface. * Among Sandy's casualties: one of the nation's largest, most valuable collections of lab rats and mice. * Sloane Crosley: "Where is the line between becoming
Our man in Boston puts the mighty Charles Yu in the ragtop and interrogates him over his background, dystopian fiction, lawyering for a day job, his lack of a creative writing graduate degree, Apple thingies, and why economists operate under pen names.
* Curiosities of the American presidential race explained, like why Obama gestures with his thumb. * Holiday requested for our five worst presidents. * Wonkblog Tax Reform Calculator: Try and pay for Romney’s tax cuts by axing deductions and exemptions. * Bolivia asks Sean Penn, "militant for noble causes," to get
* Sandy exposed New York's inequalities. * As climate change progresses, bananas could replace potatoes. * America's drone war marks its 10th anniversary next week—and shows no sign of letting up. * For many in the UK, quality of life may stagnate over the next decade. * Some children struggle
A sage said, “There’s no money in poetry, but there’s no poetry in money, either.” Who was it? I just looked it up, on BrainyQuote: Robert Graves. But Graves was wrong. There is a little money in poetry—at least for me. For example, on Aug. 6 (Hiroshima
A bride disappears on her wedding day, never to be seen again—or will she? Continuing a grand TMN Halloween tradition, our writers and editors craft new endings to a familiar tale.
* Recovery begins in New Jersey after "incalculable" loss; Christie says he'll reschedule Halloween. * Round-up of emergency gear. * Effects of Hurricane Sandy broken down by the numbers. * Scientists expect more storms and tidal surges of unprecedented intensity. * Various ways to volunteer and help victims of Sandy. * The
* No matter how the election turns out, everyone will have known it all along. * The proper balance calls for the care of a skilled surgeon, excising cysts from the [voter] rolls in an atmosphere of quiet calm. * How Hurricane Sandy could change the election: by forcing the candidates to discuss
* Summary of Hurricane Sandy's destruction so far, including multiple deaths, vast power outages, flooding, and blizzards. * Round-up of photographs of Sandy-swamped New York City. * See also: Large-scale Sandy photos. * Among the best blogs providing live Sandy coverage: CNN's "This Just In." * Con Ed official
* What you could buy with the money the candidates have raised so far. * The demands of a presidential campaigns require amazing stamina. * New York subway stations are empty, shut down in preparation for Hurricane Sandy. * Movies to watch on Netflix when you're on lockdown for Sandy. * Though Armstrong
The sign industry is making a comeback, restoring brush and paint into our contemporary landscape of sameness. From the new book “Sign Painters,” portraits of America’s best sign painters and their work, with an essay by artist (and former sign painter) Ed Ruscha.
* Connecticut governor says Sandy is "the largest threat to human life our state has experienced in anyone's lifetime." * Sandy has killed the presidential campaigns. * Times building points high-quality webcam at Sandy to update every minute. * Lindsay Lohan urges East Coasters to quit freaking out about a
* Why companies in the same industry tend to wind up in the vicinity of one another. * Interactive graphs show America's economic stagnation over the past decade. * Iraq and Afghanistan didn't achieve desired outcomes for the U.S., but its military still dominates all others. * John Warner
Fan message boards are notoriously alarmist; they’re the place where die-hards go to poke the bruise after a tough loss or question the merits of a shaky win. People who post pride themselves on not being deluded by loyalty or love. The Patriots-specific sections of the Boston Sports fan
* By the election, the presidential candidates and their parties will each have raised more than $1 billion. * New Obama ad featuring Lena Dunham extolling her "first time" is the same as an old Vladimir Putin spot. * Political ads have "shockingly small" influence; the campaigns are spending
Elections once conferred a larger knowledge that made us feel more connected to what’s important. But this cycle’s meaningless content overload has delivered little more a desire to unplug.
With the Great Pumpkin’s return just around the corner, we present a selection of spooky stories to get you in the mood. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* The GOP is now so splintered that a Romney win could spell the end of the Reagan coalition. * For the first time since the Great Depression, median family income has fallen substantially over an entire decade. * Writer Vanessa Veselka remembers the time in 1985 that she hitched a ride with
We’ve emptied half the cylinder in our Reading Roulette series of contemporary Russian literature—stories you won’t find anywhere else in translation, unfortunately. This month we usher to the table a 2013 Russian Booker Prize contender for a shot at blowing your mind.
* U.S. oil production on track to surpass Saudi Arabia's, and imports are falling. * Behold the coveted female swing voter of 2012: "Waitress mom." * Survey finds academics are drifting further to the left, with only 11% identifying as conservative. * Gluten-free food market expected to exceed $6.
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* More people around the world are at risk of getting sick from toxic pollution than malaria. * The foreign policy lies we believe. * McGovern to Obama: We tend, as lawmakers and as citizens, to drift along with the familiar ways of thinking. * The history of horses and bayonets in the army.
Our series continues with more random phone calls around small-town USA to find out what’s really going on. This time our editor only makes his calls at night, to see what happens when America goes dark.
* Obama and Romney enter final two weeks; Obama publishes 3.5 million copies of a 20-page agenda pamphlet. * Republican Senate hopeful says pregnancies caused by rape are intended by God. * Broad survey of International reactions to America's presidential race. * In pictures: Fitness center opens in Pyongyang and Vice-Marshal
* Five ways the election could drag on for months. * Most of the girls said they would like to be president one day, but the boys did not. * FDA investigates five deaths associated with consuming Monster energy drinks. * Italian scientists charged with manslaughter for failing to warn about upcoming earthquake. * How
It’s difficult to convey the tedium of rural life. I live in a hamlet called Phoenicia, in the midst of the Catskill Mountains. One of my daily habits is walking up and down my road, which happens to be named High Street. A car will pass; I’ll wave.
Once again, we convene our film scholars, plus critic Michelle Orange, to discuss a major movie: “The Master,” by Paul Thomas Anderson—a masterpiece of craftsmanship, or merely an exercise of cinema and violence with no story in the center?
* Iran, China, and Israel win contest of most-named foreign countries during last night's debate. * Polls give Obama the win, though he's unlikely to get a big debate bounce. * Round-up of debate's fact-checks. * International poll finds half the world prefers Obama, 9% prefers Romney; only
* A guide for the rest of the world: How the outcome of the U.S. election will affect your country. * Is it legal for your boss to threaten to fire you if you don't vote for Romney? Yes. * Government does not create jobs. Except that it does, millions
New paintings where time periods and people shift within the frame, and everything and everyone is unsteady.
* Consensus of surveys points to a large, perhaps historic gender gap in this year's election. * Nate Silver and Sam Wang explain why some political polls aren't worth tracking (e.g., Gallup). * See also: Why national polls continue to look so close. * Praise for Obama's
* The corner where Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan meet is a desolate, terrifying place. * By the time Saturday Night Live rolls around, the web and Jon Stewart have already claimed the week's political humor. * Campaigns want you to donate not for your money, but for your allegiance. * There were
It’s hard to get excited about the Houston Texans. This, despite the fact that they’re a 10-year-old expansion team tied for first in the AFC; that they started a third-string quarterback in a playoff game and won; that running back Arian Foster leads the league in touchdowns this
Small donations comprise more than half of President Obama’s war chest. Small donors, on the other hand, constitute some of the world’s most overwhelmed email recipients. But all that follow-up isn’t just about cash—it’s about subtle changes being made inside your head.
* Four thousand extra police required to control protesters in Athens during national strike. * MorsiMeter releases infographic-heavy report on Egyptian president's first 100 days. * Chart compares various James Bonds in matters of drinking, killing, conquesting. * Jokes told last night by Obama and Romney. * Global intervention expected soon in Mali—
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories about overcoming our instinct for self-preservation. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* To economists' surprise, housing is turning around fast: Home builders are ramping up and foreclosures are falling. * At a June conference call, Romney advised business owners to inform employees which candidate they should vote for. * The think tanks speak: Romney's deduction caps and proposed tax cuts won&
After resigning in disgrace from the charity he helped found and losing his sponsorship with Nike, Lance Armstrong now must cope with the leak of his new memoir—excerpted here.
* Reality of war pervades daily life in Damascus with a sense of inevitability. * Apparently there's no limit to idiotic, would-be jihadis prepared to be fooled by FBI stings. * Presidential eating habits. * Pursuits of the idle: Bush makes pet portraits, Napoleon played chess. * Bloomberg starts super PAC to support
* Why coal matters this election. * Korea's top economic officer: "Gangnam style" is an example of the creativity Korea needs. * Police raid motorcycle gang's Brooklyn "clubhouse," confiscate guns, grenades, and a .50-caliber cannon. * Research shows routine medical exams don't result in
When you’re a competition-level grocery-store bagger, it’s easy to overlook the messy lives of your co-workers. But when one of them goes missing, and you start to grow up, the picture changes.
* Obama wins debate by seven points and triumphs in the likability race, but Romney tops on economic issues. * Fact-checking the debate's disputed claims and arguments. * Lovely chart shows the idiocy of blanket statements about presidential elections. * Binders Full of Women, the tumblr. * Movie trailer and story of the
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* Reading the tea leaves, Jeb Bush is unsure what his future holds. * Libertarian Gary Johnson could be a Romney spoiler—Republicans are doing everything they can to keep him off the ballots. * A Bronx man who looks like Obama was high-fived on the street after bin Laden was killed. * Why
I woke from a dream that I was eating my finger. Some guy had explained to me that I must eat my left middle finger—perhaps to prevent gangrene? So I bit into it, tore off a piece and swallowed it. Then a little more. Then some more. I was
To the uninitiated, they’re just paintings of ships on the ocean. Curator Joe Vallejo explains what makes the tradition of marine art romantic, enigmatic, celebratory.
* Clinton says she's ultimately responsible for the safety of U.S. diplomats—dumping further hay on the pile. * Color-coded guide to Angela Merkel's blazers. * Study finds you can judge 90% of a stranger's personal characteristics by looking at their shoes. * America's suits
* Six-year study of Britain's drug laws by cops, scientists, etc., recommends decriminalization. * Primer on the battle over whether soda actually makes us fat. * Pumpkin is the new bacon. * Philosopher argues for pain-free world, which may soon be possible with technology. * People with congenital analgesia—people who, in fact,
From 2:00 to 2:30 p.m. ET today, tell the Biblioracle the last five books you've read, and he'll recommend your next favorite novel.
* German chancellor tries unsuccessfully to feel Greeks' pain during visit. * America faces the doom of Venice, where elites yanked up the ladders after they'd climbed to the top. * Round-up of nastiest Congressional races currently underway. * Senator Arlen Specter, "a Philadelphia institution," dies of cancer at
* Google says no monkey business involved when search for "completely wrong" yields Romney photos. * Letter to American liberals. * Popkey: The Vikings stink—OK, not this year, but it could be tough convincing their fans otherwise. * Math explained behind that last straw applied to the poor camel. * Understanding your
Let’s start with some numbers. Three: the number of games the Vikings won in the 2011 season. Six: the number of games Donovan McNabb, who was picked up by the team after Brett Favre (finally, for real) retired, played that year as starting quarterback. Seventy point one: the quarterback
The White House has been lauded for its grassroots internet campaigns to raise money. But what happens when a man takes the president's messages too personally?
* Nobel Peace Prize bestowed on the European Union amid a "growing gulf" between its member nations. * During last night's debate, Biden took clear command at times, Ryan didn't screw up, and both parties got what they needed. * Round-up of bloggers' reactions to the
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories examining women and power--political, social, sexual, and creative. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Deep in the Republican South, a swath of voters are pro-Obama due in part to plankton. * "Philadelphians Wear More Sweatpants Than Anybody, Says Study." * Muslims in Java seeking their fortune embrace ritual that requires sex with strangers. * Despite Putin's aid, his cranes won't fly—
Registering everything from fitness levels to sleep patterns, personal tracking devices satisfy our desire for self-knowledge. But when we hand control to our holograms, we may be surprised at what they want.
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* Brief, accessible guide to the vice-president and his rival in preparation for tonight's debate. * Related: Ryan's appeal and positions reduced to a children's poem. * Obama's confidence is intact, and as the meme says—which he knows about—"he's got
* "Romney frantically figuring out how tax plan could actually work after realizing he might win election." * The complex history of presidents trying to be funny. * A bad lip reading of the first 2012 presidential debate. * Old Economy Steven has it better than his parents—and his kids. * U.
* Pentagon task force sent to Jordan in case turmoil in Syria should expand into a wider conflict. * The pro-U.S. case for helping Iran save face. * Terrific article about the predetermined square dance that people do in elevators. * A tale of two lawyers: One wants to inject more money into
* How Lincoln became the third candidate in the election. * Taking apart Buzz Bissinger's Romney endorsement. * Lauren Bans travels to Patriot Camp in central Pennsylvania, where kids are being steeped in Tea Party teachings. * Bruni: Same-sex marriage probably has a better chance of prevailing by a voter referendum than
Preparing for Thursday’s vice presidential showdown, Republican candidate Paul Ryan consults Theodor Seuss Geisel to simplify his message so that even a child—or American voter—can understand.
* Polls find Obama and Romney tied, but Romney voters say they're more likely to turn out and vote. * Notes for conservative thinkers should Romney lose. * Wealthy French want higher taxes, but not so high as 75% of their income. * Europeans depend on U.S. might for common defense,
* In Maine senate race, Republicans call into question Democratic challenger's World of Warcraft hobby. * NFL linemen don't like their new jerseys. * How Baby Boomers took everything that was handed to them, gobbled it up, and destroyed the economy. * Paglia on the history and future of capitalism-fueled
In a meta-exploration of the “struggling artist” myth, Joe Fig paints portraits of artists—Basquiat, Rembrandt, Kahlo—as portrayed in classic films.
* Chávez wins reelection after 14 years in power; turnout among 19 million registered voters was record 80.4%. * Aaron Sorkin imagines dialogue between Obama and Jed Bartlett about the debate. * Although golf is a way for the President to disappear, Republicans attack his well known love for the game. * Educational
When asked why I devote a not inconsiderable amount of time and energy to football, I usually give one of two answers. There is the personal: I grew up watching the game. And there is the self-justifying: It’s inherently worth grappling with a sport watched by, on average, 17.
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories about the mysteries of the mind. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Unemployment unexpectedly falls to 7.8% in September, the lowest number since Obama took office. * Jack Welch says White House rigged the employment number because Obama lost the debate. * In honor of Joe Biden, 10 words you literally didn't know you were using incorrectly. * Literally a Chris Traeger/
* Greek leader says the "cash box" will be empty in November. * Romney's shift to center may have infuriated Democrats, but it won him the first debate. * Romney reverses position and says he takes back the 47% comment. * As the Arctic ice cap melts and reveals riches,
* Man and woman fight unemployment blues by visiting Disneyland every single day. * Tapes on Books: Digital mixtapes become unofficial soundtracks for beloved texts. * Videos and songs from the '80s explained for those who may be too young to understand. * See also: The sonic textures of parenting. * Will Oldham on
Since the 1980s, changing social mores, rising gas prices, and advancing technology have resulted in an information gap just screaming to be studied. A guide to demystifying songs from the ’80s for later, digitally native generations.
* For the second straight day, Turkish military pound Syrian targets while politicians say they don't want war. * The best, and in many ways the intended, way to watch the presidential debates is with the sound off. * Factual examination of the debate's claims and counterclaims. * Carville: "
* Political scientists: Never mind the zingers, presidential debates don't change election outcomes. * Your 2012 presidential debate drinking game. * Obama is on track to becoming the first candidate to raise $1 billion. * Why 2012 could be a new "Year of the woman." * Experts say a military attack
Yes, yes, The Exorcist and Night of the Living Dead are reliably traumatizing, but at this point they're comfort food, and there's plenty more to discover in the world of horror cinema.
* Chinese firm sues Obama over blocked wind-farm deal. * Reasons why Massachusetts dislikes Romney—for being detached, overly scripted, and unavailable—may doom his campaign. * Netanyahu to call for early elections partially out of fear of Obama's post-reelection revenge. * Study of the distinct species that is the libertarian: cold,
* The election is over, and it's time—finally—to start thinking about the future again. * At some point in every U.S. presidential election someone will deem it "the most important election in history." * America's super-rich feel aggrieved in part because they believe themselves
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All your precious data, everything you've created and every memory you've captured and stored, is etched on a hard disk somewhere on Earth. Back it up all you want—it won't matter if the planet goes. The search for storage beyond the cloud.
* Now that conservative media is king, Republicans' media-bias argument no longer sells. * Democrats use "Tea Party" label to sink even moderate Republicans' chances. * Tally of world leaders who have endorsed a candidate—or hedged endorsement—in the American race. * Today, a good portion of Americans plan
* Yemen's president praises the accuracy of U.S. drone strikes. * Mondale's prep partner remembers the '84 debates. * How to tame your brain's emotions and make better decisions. * The mind suck of air travel. * Shteyngart to American: "Like the country whose name graces
* The allowance that Japanese wives give their salarymen husbands is at its lowest since 1979. * Iranian news agency republishes Onion story about rural whites liking Ahmadinejad over Obama. * The case against voting for Obama even if you think he's better than Romney. * Political candidates now wage foreign policy;
* Researchers find supporters of rival presidential candidates are able to empathize with each other. * I like to listen to right-wing podcasts and then call up the organizations that produce them to tell them about everything they got wrong. * Mike Love's recent firing of his fellow Beach Boys is
For the middle-class residents of Tel Aviv, housing is either too expensive or difficult to find. On one city street, apartments are plentiful but—for more than one reason—not the kind you’d like to see.
* Plane bound for Everest region crashes in Kathmandu, killing all 19 onboard. * In 2012, more soldiers died from suicide than combat; on average, one dies each day. * Graph shows the political skew and likely turnout rates of various beer drinkers. * Round-up of pretty much everything you'll want or
On Monday night, following a spectacularly botched call in front of a television audience of 16 million football fans, Americans, as we so often do in times of crisis, took to the internet. There were cries of outrage from the aggrieved—the Packers’ T. J. Lang tweeted: “Fuck it NFL
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories about (American) football. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Republicans aren't asking the other half of Reagan's question: "Do you feel safer than you did four years ago?" * Romney's apparent fear of flying is worth mention—just being president requires intense physical hardiness. * Related: Choire Sicha dons the Non-Expert blazer to
We continue our series of publishing contemporary Russian literature in translation—stories you won't find anywhere else, unfortunately—with a novelist who turns Mr. and Mrs. Nabokov into objects of captivation. Don't miss out on your chance to win a gift card from Powells.com.
* Report finds people in areas targeted by Obama's drone campaign are being systematically terrorized. * Related: U.S. operators now attack rescuers, using Hamas's "double tap" tactic. * Bill Clinton could run for president in Ireland or France, but probably won't. * David Cameron fluffs
* Leading Republican strategist says voter-fraud hoopla is utter bull. * Medical error and/or overtreatment believed to cause 180,000 deaths per year. * Fighting fires is safer than fixing cars: America's 10 deadliest jobs. * Related: Giles Turnbull answers the world's oddest job interview questions. * Buyer's
(One clue to get you started: The map doesn’t represent gross national anything.) {image-1} [Answer]
Rare is the college graduate who’s attended more than one school. But when you’ve attended four very different types of university, it’s incumbent upon you to share what you’ve learned.
* Obama uses UN address to defend free speech in young democracies. * Eighteen months into the astonishing revolt in Syria, children are being tortured. * Collection of vivid dispatches from British correspondents in Syria. * Half a billion dollars changed hands over Monday night's controversial Seahawks-Packers game. * Thirty-two pictures of 32
* Sea levels are rising at an average of 3mm a year—though some areas are as fast as 12mm. * Global warming is turning southern England into a premier winemaking region. * Todd Levin explains how to select a wine. * How a physician who swallowed a can tab inspired the redesign of
Musical therapists can improve patients’ cognitive functioning and motor skills. But sometimes the battle is to keep a mind intact. Avant-garde composition and EKG techno in a London care center.
* Assad's goal said to be restoration of "the old Syria" without any plan for reforms. * Russia's new treason law resembles a child's response to chores. * Jailhouse interview with Pussy Riot. * Conservative poets evaluated in case Romney wants for artful rhetoric. * Obama embraces
* Voter intimidation enters the information age. * Health officials identify a second person with a new, SARS-like respiratory virus. * Students who arrive unmedicated may be sent to the office to take their dose and wait till it kicks in before coming to class. * Lauren Daisley addresses the state of sleep-deprived students.
Galaxies and night skies constructed entirely from ashes, creating a tangible connection to notions of death and what lies beyond our atmosphere.
* U.S. ends 27-year Cold War with New Zealand, but New Zealand refuses to cave. * Surgeon offers five ways to improve hospitals. * Newborn loses faith in humanity in six days. * Nazi hunters say lack of political will—not age of prey—stymies capture of final targets. * Long account of JK
* Most everything Greece owns is now up for sale, including its diplomatic residences abroad. * Vast majority of Japanese firms are considered family businesses. * North Korea uses "Gangnam Style" to score a propaganda point. * Five ways Romney can still win. * "Study: Athletes Perform Better Under Pressure When They
Two years ago, I was a recent transplant to New York with little more than a sublet and an unpaid internship to my name. Going home to California for the winter holidays seemed impractical, and anyway, a dear college friend whose family was convening in his grandfather’s Manhattan apartment
When a voiceover artist temporarily loses the use of her primary asset, the struggle back to speaking unearths what's gone unsaid for too long.
* Violence in Kenya blamed on politicians stoking unrest ahead of elections. * Despite recent double murder of cops, British police "believe passionately" in staying unarmed. * America in 50 photos. * Profile of Found's Davy Rothbart and his 75-city, self-driven book tour. * Your Saturday morning reading: "99 Bottles
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories about the little people. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* News of Romney's 47% video makes the front pages of 41 swing-state newspapers. * Romney: Now that my campaign is over, I'd like to talk to you all about the Church of Latter-Day Saints. * The Mormons: our secret weapon in the war on terror. * The would-be real-life
Our man in Boston sits down with Martin Amis for their sixth chat to discuss Nabokov, dictionaries, spiteful reviews, the death of Christopher Hitchens, and the freedom of writing fiction.
* Of 20,000 service members raped or sexually assaulted yearly, victims often blamed, predators evade punishment. * Use of heavy weaponry against Syrian civilians is unmatched by any modern state fighting its own people. * Increase in insider attacks on U.S. army may be the weak link of shadow wars in
* The 47% statement is devastating—and a continuation of bizarre positions Romney's made on the fundraising trail. * The limitations of Romney's foreign policy beliefs are revealed in his thoughts on dirty bombs. * Noonan advises Romney on his options. * Upper East Side priest distances himself from a
Even through the prism of life in the tumultuous Middle East, the U.S. in an election year looks divided, fractious, frustrating. But there’s still a ray of hope—in Queens.
* Romney's mockery of Jimmy Carter encouraged the former president's grandson to find and spread the 47% video. * Six charts analyze government benefits: Most flow to the middle class; a large chunk goes to the elderly and the disabled. * As Europe moves closer to economic federalism, 11
* Why we should be concerned about a maritime dispute between the world's second- and third-largest economies. * Who comprises the 47%: those who are subject to payroll tax, the retired and elderly, and the poor. * Americans who supposedly don't pay taxes live in states that mostly swung
Everyone says they’ve got a book inside, but hundreds of people actually write them—and are preyed upon by scam artists. The greatest story of literary vigilantism ever told.
* On the first anniversary of Occupy Wall Street, 150 are arrested as the latest stats show the rich have become richer. * Speaking at a private fundraiser, Romney claims 47% of Americans are government-dependent and don't pay taxes. * Instigated by police, anti-Japan protests are being used by the Chinese
* There are many reasons for the Muslim protests—since none are election talking points, we won't hear them. * More than 20 years of files reveal Boy Scout officials shielded troop leaders suspected of molestation. * Frank Rich spends a week embedded in conservative media. * From 2004, Oliver Griswold tests
* Amid safety concerns over new protests, U.S. withdraws nonessential embassy staff from Tunisia and Sudan. * China sends boats to disputed islands; on the mainland, protesters burn Japanese flags and target Japanese-made cars. * All four states holding same-sex marriage votes are, to varying degrees, fertile ground for gay-marriage campaigners. * How
Gallery owners don’t often show up in the art they sell—probably because they’re too busy having meetings to pose. But an art gallery itself turns out to be as much a theatrical diorama as a place of business.
* Few of the luxuries of business exist in foreign policy, where those who ignore your directives cannot be dismissed. * Comparing the candidates' views on the embassy crises—and how foreign policy differs from business. * Basketball hadn't appeared on the president's official schedule, and so we
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, stories exploring the Middle East and Islam...from perhaps a more nuanced point of view than has been expressed this week. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
A professor teaches his students skepticism by instructing them to create hoaxes with the web as their laboratory.
* I've rarely been so self-conscious of the limits of my job trying to describe Aleppo. * Only John Kiriakou will be held as part of America's torture policy: for whistle-blowing. * Technology has enabled a couple of loonies to start a mini-war in the Muslim world. * Deaths of
* On the hunt for the director of Innocence of Muslims: He's not an Israeli Jew; he's a California felon using a pseudonym. * Trailer for the absurd Innocence of Muslims. * This is not simply a matter of "politicizing" tragedy; often, tragedy is political, and it
Imperceptibly and without warning, your pulse accelerates, your mind races, and panic grips your body—for anxiety attack sufferers, every day is a case in survival. A journey to the wild to confront the fear.
* Libya attacks were likely premeditated as retaliation for drone strikes—not a spontaneous reaction to a movie. * Protesters storm grounds of U.S. embassy in Yemen. * Income gap is the widest in 40 years: poverty rate at 20-year high, fewer uninsured, rich richer. * Obituary by friend of diplomat Sean Smith,
Recalling a favorite book from childhood is easy; trickier is remembering your younger self’s exact reaction to it. We canvassed young readers from across the globe to find out what they thought of their latest summer read.
* Considering Romney in evolutionary terms, he's akin to a tribal chieftain—which may not be enough for today's voters. * Researchers discover snakes can have virgin births. * Q&A with the founder of the Ig Nobel prize on books, software, and research on dragging sheep across
* U.S. ambassador to Libya killed in rocket attack while escaping Benghazi consul. * Protests on U.S. missions in Egypt and Libya prompted by Muhammad film, drone strikes. * Israeli director of the $5 million anti-Muhammad film stands by his production. * When we make it harder for high-skilled immigrants to settle
* Romney's tax promises: risk-heavy and detail-free. * Comparing jobs lost and created since the Great Recession—mining, utilities, and hospitality have bounced back the most. * A photo gallery of former video store locations. * Gallery: Closed-down malls and abandoned big-box retail stores. * White terrorism, driven by racial supremacy and xenophobia,
* Andy Murray wins his first Grand Slam at the U.S. Open, and makes all the grown male journalists cry. * Bloomberg and Cuomo reach a deal on who will pay for the 9/11 Museum. * London tube map rendered in radio circuit board. * Graphic shows who hasn't yet
Every day, rejections from lit mags flood the inboxes of thousands of writers the world over. Today, one writer changes all that.
* More and more, the FBI is becoming dependent on informants, who aren't subject to the same regulations as agents. * Opinions clash as Shell begins Alaska drilling. * Salman Rushdie on life under fatwa. * Chemist who invented the Pill talks about his new play and how he turned to lit
Intimate, candid portraits that capture the intimacy, private moments, and self-sufficiency of girlhood, from the riveting book “Girl Ascending.”
* Serena Williams wins U.S. Open; men to play final this afternoon. * In case you missed it, the Minnesota Viking's pro-gay marriage letter to a Maryland politician. * Most NFL players support gay marriage, says Ravens linebacker. * Lunch breaks should be mandatory, even if they require "libertarian paternalism&
* David Foster Wallace had considered becoming an Obama speechwriter. * Primer on how to decide which historical president would win in a mass knife fight. * Christians in Pakistan—less than 3 million people—search for tolerance. * Judge orders Fort Hood shooting suspect to shave off his beard before his trial. * A
Read between the lines of a to-do list, and you'll find an artfully constructed maze of excuses. A challenge to complete five things before the end of summer, or before you die—whichever comes first.
* Obama's speech played it safe and traditional, and kept the audience in its chairs. * Clinton's speech nicely edited to show what he said versus what was written. * Whatever jobs number is released this morning, it won't capture our real unemployment problems. * Bin Laden received
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories looking at the nation's blue party. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Depending on who he's standing in front of, Romney continues to shift his abortion stance. * Except for some minor exaggerations, the facts in Clinton's DNC speech check out. * How to commit blasphemy in Pakistan. * Federal appeals court rules cities cannot randomly seize and destroy the property
Recalling a favorite book from childhood is easy; trickier is remembering your younger self’s exact reaction to it. We canvassed young readers from across the globe to find out what they thought of their latest summer read.
* Russian president wears a beak while flying a motorized hang glider to rescue a flock of endangered cranes. * U.S. accused of torturing Gadhafi's enemies before handing them over. * Fact checking lies and yarns (and Bill Clinton's startling truth) at the Democrats' convention. * Paul Ryan
* Questionable claims in the Democratic Party's foreign policy platform. * About that organics study: Nutrition aside, there are many reasons to be aware of what you're buying. * California's landmark 1970 environmental law has become a legislative barrier to today's green effort. * After cooperating
* Last night, the First Lady garnered nearly double the tweets-per-minute during her speech than Romney. * Shooting brings chaos to an election victory rally in Quebec province. * I’ve not heard a single person say it’s too bad that John Edwards is still not around. * Teens' natural bedtime is
* A guide to college football 2012. * TMN's Nicole Pasulka on surfing legend Eddie Aikau and reminders of Hawaii's complicated past. * Scientists discover that people can train themselves to forget memories. * Romney's muffin-eating habits will not endear him to Asian voters. * Focus group reveals disaffected
Last Thursday, on his 30th birthday, Andy Roddick announced that this year’s U.S. Open would be his last tournament. If you had told me that I would care about this, back in 2003 when he was a 20-year-old tennis whiz kicking ass in a trucker hat and winning
* More than 100,000 Syrians fled their country in August, highest amount since conflict began in March 2011. * Chinese demand for ivory causes epic elephant slaughter in Africa. * "Afghanistan" mentioned four times during Republican convention. * Now that Obama's beer recipe is set to be released, notes
* IAEA says Iran has doubled its uranium enrichment capacity at an underground facility south of Tehran. * A visit to the Nevada Test Site. * Pentagon considers legal action against former Seal, publisher for divulging classified information in Osama bin Laden book. * The fourth episode of TLC's Honey Boo Boo
* South African miners charged in murder of colleagues shot by police. * Trial of Bradley Manning to begin in February—three years after he was arrested. * This is the last time that any party will try to win an election with just the white vote. * Egyptian leader backs Syrian rebels at
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories shedding a little light on the party of Lincoln. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Bad jokes from the RNC. * Neil Bush, brother of George W., unexpectedly becomes a Chinese internet sensation. * The exact origin of @ is a mystery, but its first documented use was to denote jars of wine. * For centuries, whiskey distilleries have been home to a black fungus; now that it'
* Police bully young drug offenders into becoming informants with few legal protections, massive danger. * NYC Civilian Complaint Review Board is institutionally imbalanced, lets down people treated as customers. * Syrian émigrés in America fundraise for rebels, help provide intel to U.S. * Syria is at the point of no return, sitting
* Why the world's most popular blogger, a 29-year-old Chinese racecar driver, is practically unknown in the West. * Chicken Soup for the Soul publisher to start selling soup (not just chicken). * Yosemite National Park cleans, inspects cabins following recent deaths attributed to rare, rodent-borne hantavirus. * Reviews of "BIC
At 11 a.m. EDT on Monday morning, the 2012 United States Open Tennis Championship began play. At 1:23 p.m. a thunderstorm hit so hard that players who were bouncing a ball on court in preparation to serve just stopped, looked up, and walked off court. The stadiums
Our man in Boston talks with writer Ron Rash about his latest book, America's great regional voices, the high percentage of readers in New Zealand and Australia, and the misery that accompanies putting a novel together, where it's rather more fun to stick pencils in your eyes.
* Hurricane Isaac lacks Katrina's ferocity, but overruns a levee 95 miles from New Orleans. * Puerto Rican party functionary shouted down at RNC by nativist chanting. * Gay Marine beaten to bloody pulp to fire up RNC crowd. * Since 2009, 51 Tibetans have died in self-immolations protesting Chinese rule. * Canadian
* The RNC has a national debt clock familiar to New Yorkers, who may remember when it went in reverse under Clinton. * Mitt Romney could become Ronald Reagan. * Mitt Romney could become Richard Nixon. * NYPD admits targeting Urdu speakers as potential terrorists—a problem since 80,000 New Yorkers speak it.
* Army-linked militia planned to take over Fort Stewart, bomb dam, poison apples, assassinate Obama. * Jeffrey Johnson's mother seeks clues from his life as to why he killed a former coworker. * Israeli judge rules Rachel Corrie's death not Israel's fault—she was protecting terrorists. * Solitary
Americans have always regarded their cars as more than vehicles, and nothing demonstrates that aspiration better than the typography and proper nouns used to name those dreams.
* Why Breivik's 21-year sentence doesn't seem like enough: It's a question of retributive vs. restorative justice. * Two members of Russian punk band Pussy Riot have fled the country. * The Economist remembers Neil Armstrong, "The Ice Commander": equal parts reserve and shyness. * Anthony
“Year of the Grim Light” I was using fewer and fewer words, and then I was using none. Not even a running gag with the dog, or reading old history out loud to a houseplant. Not even half a song sung to the TV news anchor on TV. Not even
Stunt memoirs are ubiquitous: writers who eat, pray, and love straight into their bank accounts. But what happens when the material for your book—for which you took a dozen amusement park jobs to acquire—isn’t all hijinks and zany locals? What if it’s rather nice?
* Up to 300 people executed in one of the deadliest raids by the Syrian army. * How one woman lost her career for thwarting plans to provoke war with Iran. * NSA whistleblower fears the NSA will soon be able to track and store a century's worth of the world&
* We're on summer vacation until Aug. 27. In the meantime, enjoy a selection of our summer longreads. * A report from North America's largest consumer craft fair, where the competition for puppet dollars is intense. * A two-week journey across the U.S.—passing through a handful of
* Russian punk band Pussy Riot sentenced to two years in prison for protesting Putin in a church. * Listen to Pussy Riot's new single, "Putin Lights Up the Fires." * Tom Morello: "Paul Ryan is the embodiment of the machine our music rages against." * The [Confederate]
* South African police open fire on striking miners, killing at least 18. * Even after billions of dollars have been spent reconstructing Haiti, many refugees still don't have safe housing. * France's targeting of gypsy camps continues under Hollande, though with less opposition; as for the Roma, deportation
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, the collected installations (so far) of Matt Robison’s “News From America” series. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* AP Stylebook releases list of election cliches to avoid—WaPo provides commentary. * Hungary tries to quell "brain drain" by requiring state-sponsored grads to stay for 10 years—a possible violation of EU laws. * Mr. Ramirez thinks that around 0.5% of all bills in Peru, including dollars, are
Our series of contemporary Russian literature continues—six months, six stories from some of Russia's best working writers, plus interviews with their authors, all of it sponsored by Powells.com. This month we feature one of Moscow's finest chroniclers.
* Europe lets Hezbollah operate openly as a political and social movement. * Prize-winning 1987 essay by Hilary Mantel on women's domestic life in Saudi Arabia. * Favorite new meme: "Ridiculously Photogenic Syrian Soldier." * NBA officials didn't think black players looked good in black until Jay-Z persuaded
* Rebuke to anti-algebra op-ed says algebra, like math itself, is for everyone. * I make even my most ardent pro-choice friends very uncomfortable when I explain why my mother should have aborted me. * Soledad O'Brien lucidly fact-checks GOP's $700+ billion Medicare cut claim. * New words added to
Name: Emily Age: 10 Location: Wuhan, China Reading selection: 狼王梦 (Lang Wang Meng, which translates to something like Wolf King Dream), by 沈石溪 (Chen Shixi) What was the book about? It is an animal story. It is about a mother wolf and her son. What was your favorite part? She
* In a dozen years, China will have more than 220 cities with over a million citizens each. * It is becoming increasingly clear that Europe’s leaders are now planning for a Greek exit from the euro. * State-by-state picture of America's battle with the bulge. * Interactive panorama of Curiosity’
* It is the recurring temptation of self-confident, insular elites to assume that the whole country loves what they love, hates what they hate and believes what they believe. * Paul Ryan: "Admit it, I scare the ever-loving shit out of you, don't I?" * Young environmentalists are scared,
* Supporters of the Syrian uprising may struggle to watch rebel fighters toss dead enemies off a roof. * The week in South Korean island-related political stunts. * Fascinating story of Argentine ants' violent domination of the planet. * Photographs of abandoned Chinese theme park Wonderland. * Saudi Arabia plans new city for women
* Under Paul Ryan's tax plan, Mitt Romney would have paid around 0.82% on his income of $21 million in 2010. * Ryan: The reason I got involved in public service, by and large, if I had to credit one thinker, one person, it would be Ayn Rand. * Insurers
The U.S. Open Tennis Championships are two weeks away, but let’s consider now the current state of the American men. Andy Roddick, Mardy Fish, and John Isner are the biggest names, of course, and you can read more than enough about them elsewhere. Here, I assess the rest.
Artist colonies are mysterious places. Available only to a select few, supposedly teeming with alcohol, affairs, and creative hoodoo. But the rumors aren't true—they just lack detail. Scenes and lessons from three residencies.
* Iran earthquakes kill upward of 300, injure 2,600, and flatten villages. * Royal Dutch Shell, Nigeria’s biggest oil producer, estimates that 150,000 barrels a day are lost to theft. * Approximately 60,000 pets are abandoned in France every year during summer holidays. * Super strain of gonorrhea, spotted in
* Gore Vidal's Economist obit. * Images of Olympic defeat. * Explaining the 2012 Olympic oddities, including a probable reason for those blue tongues. * Our latest Weekender: Falling for sports you never knew existed. * The modern pentathlon: more Star Wars than Peloponnesian. * Luis Rios has been rounding the Prospect Park loop
* The Economist drafts Plan B for Merkel in case she wants to reconsider holding the Euro zone together. * Graphic history of money in American politics, from George Washington to Citizens United. * U.S. quickly catching up to Africa's emergence as cash power, voting bloc, security frontier. * Fresh Prince
This weekend, a selection of stories about athletic endeavors you won't see on ESPN. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* A team of 20 drivers can't wait for their chance to operate Curiosity. * Roundup of Curiosity camera pics and resources. * Study finds athletes who travel more than five timezones to compete double their chances of illness. * Earthquake clusters like the one that began Tuesday in Southern California aren&
* Aleppo becomes Syria's focal point and faces a crippling stalemate. * Shadow war between Israel and Iran sees return to "the black arts of the cold war." * On the recent demise of Tuscany's Siena. * Bob Hoskins to retire from acting after diagnosis of Parkinson'
Recalling a favorite book from childhood is easy; trickier is remembering your younger self’s exact reaction to it. We canvassed young readers from across the globe to find out what they thought of their latest summer read.
* This election's critical "low-information voters": Romney supporters who must not know any better, according to Democrats. * Philanthropist to spend his last $1.5 billion by 2020, then shut down his foundation. * Reuters pulled into Syrian civil war, when its social media channels were hijacked by both
* NPR begins series visiting First and Main intersections in political-battleground states. * Porn stars' presidential endorsements. * Profile of transition within a Japanese firm that switched all communication to English. * Kremlin critic live-tweets discovering that his office is bugged. * Madonna defends punk band for staging anti-Putin stunt in Moscow’s main
* The space race is long over, but America still lags behind the Soviets in number of planets visited. * Where Russia meets Kazakhstan, space junk is prevalent—as are health problems associated with toxic rocket fuel. * Inside the mind of last week's Tennessee Democratic Senate primary winner. * Romney'
A post-World War II documentary, banned by the military in 1946 but lately released online, is one of the earliest depictions of psychotherapy. But it says even more about contemporary Americans’ interest in the veterans they love to praise.
* Syria's prime minister defects; Iran pokes U.S. over hostages in a bus. * The entire case that Romney is putting before undecided voters is something he does not believe himself. * Panama Canal to soon accommodate mega-ships, causing highways and shipyards elsewhere to evolve. * Man deposits junk-mail check; bank
* Designer of the Curiosity lander became a rocket scientist when the rock 'n' roll thing didn't work out. * Global food prices are spiking upwards because of widespread drought in the U.S., the breadbasket of the world. * New York restaurants' secret language. * English-language TV networks
I follow the tennis no one else does, the obscure and up-and-coming or never-to-rise. I write about the young Americans. Some days that means I just watch digital scores on my iPhone, refreshing them every few seconds, imagining what the actual match looks like. The major stuff I watch too,
Our man in Boston sits down with the author of The Financial Lives of the Poets to talk about his latest novel, how to survive in Hollywood, the ins and outs of contemporary publishing, and that unheralded Paris of the Northwest, Spokane.
* NASA's rover Curiosity successfully lands on Mars via sky crane and supersonic parachute. * Curiosity's first transmitted images. * Photo should anyone doubt that people gathered in Times Square to watch a robot land on Mars. * Earth leading Mars in total medals won during Olympics. * Terrific video graphic
* This week, "a rogue algorithm" bought and sold million of shares on the stock market. * The Bureau of Labor Statistics' Fort Knox-like security measures for keeping the monthly jobs report under wraps until its release. * Obama signs secret order to support Syrian rebel forces. * If NYC'
* Syrian army is unprepared for civil war; attack helicopters are faltering, tanks are being commandeered. * Seeking to avoid repeat of Iraq failures, U.S. focuses on Syrian day-after strategy, future leaders. * War is not all trauma, but it's near-impossible to encourage soldiers to tease out fond moments. * Al
* Few can tell if a product is produced by slave labor—with 21 million slave workers worldwide, it's quite common. * Inequality began with horse ownership, which first separated the haves from the have-nots. * After underscoring his Palestinian view in the National Review, Romney is confusing "culture"
Recalling a favorite book from childhood is easy; trickier is remembering your younger self’s exact reaction to it. We canvassed young readers from across the globe to find out what they thought of their latest summer read.
* U.S. scrambles to assuage Israel from moving first on Iran—officials say Israel is less confrontational in private. * Despite reforms, Burmese government waging campaign of violence against Rohingya minority. * Street children in India run their own banking co-op, acquiring life skills and a stake in their own future. * Bahrain
Every four years, the world rediscovers swimming—that pleasant recreation turned into a furious race of hulks. But not everyone watches simply as a fan. The former competitive swimmer is never fully a land-bound mammal.
* Law providing American women with access to preventive health services goes into effect today. * Arizona's new abortion law could force mothers to birth stillborns and babies with fatal defects. * Late-term abortion legislation fails in DC. * Obama's newest campaign slogan attacked for an alleged punctuation error. * NYC&
* Gore Vidal dies at 86. * Vidal in conversation with his literary executor on influence, American education, Palin, the Bill of Rights. * Electricity and material benefits legitimizes dictatorship while Indian politicians ignore basic life needs. * Life for Syrians is little improved on entering refugee camps in Turkey's Siberia. * Scientists
* If you live in America, you are four times more likely to be murdered than if you live in Britain. * Obama's winning on messages, but Romney's talking points are Americans' hot-button issues, Gallup shows. * Jonah Lehrer’s deceptions. * The 2012 Olympics gold medals are mostly
* 600 million without power in India. * Daily life becomes a tale of survival as Aleppo fight continues in Syria, sparking a refugee crisis. * Syrian rebels explain why they left the Free Syrian Army to fight with al Qaeda against Assad. * Drone pilots talk about their day job. * Promises of free
America's funeral parlors rely on one man to provide the theme music for your grandmother’s memorial service, the pop radio for your cousin’s wake. Welcome to “semi-spiritual” ambient music and the stuff of contemporary mourning.
* Photographers on shooting violence. * How primate behavior and socialization can explain gun violence. * The five most potentially habitable alien planets. * Q&A with a programmer who hopes to direct a movie before he loses his eyesight. * The healthiest fat in your body is in the back of your neck,
Olympic tennis takes some getting used to. Usually tennis players compete for no one other than themselves, and so fan alliance concurs. We attend primarily to see who we like, not just who’s from home, so patriotic rooting can be a readjustment. Add to this an Olympic crowd at
* President Romney will find it hard to cut spending; President Obama will struggle to increase it any further. * How to hide your money off-shore. * Life in the town of Wolfeboro, NH, where Romney vacations. * Growing up black in Jackson, Miss. * List of the most important American painters to emerge since
Today we're launching a new series of contemporary Russian literature, with six stories in six months, including interviews with their authors, sponsored by Powells.com. Will one of them blow your mind? We begin with the "Queen of Russian Horror."
* The "nocebo effect"—being told a harmless substance is harmful—can be strong enough to kill. * On contemporary experiments in LSD, including "micro-dosing." * Jad Abrumad revisits Radiolab's origin story. * Geneticists say a cousin of the Neanderthals coexisted with modern humans and bred with them.
* London mayor chides Romney for suggesting Olympics may go sour. * Romney's book says Britain is a tiny island making things that nobody wants. * Related: Romney probably wouldn't like sculptures made from pencil lead. * Contenders for current practices that are destined for future condemnation. * Brief notes on
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories about the nonpareils of escapism: comic books and science fiction. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
For decades, the U.S. government banned medical studies of the effects of LSD. But for one longtime, elite researcher, the promise of mind-blowing revelations was just too tempting.
* U.S. Dept. of Agriculture expects food prices will jump next year due to Midwest drought. * As the U.S. faces the worst drought in 50 years, experts address how we can prevent another Dust Bowl. * New study of hunter-gatherer tribe elevates diet over exercise in fighting obesity. * Washington State&
Recalling a favorite book from childhood is easy; trickier is remembering your younger self’s exact reaction to it. We canvassed young readers from across the globe to find out what they thought of their latest summer read.
* Obama calls for greater common sense in gun-control policies, but offers no details. * Former boy soldier calls for global treaty to regulate trade in arms. * New Fiat features an espresso machine that only brews when the car is stopped. * Pictures from a German's 23-year road trip in a
* Al Qaeda and other Islamic extremists doing their best to hijack the Syrian revolution. * Mexico has only one legal gun store; American gun-control policies look insane in comparison. * When its people sparked the Arab Spring, Tunisia had the lowest firearm ownership rate in the world. * "Nominalizations"—zombie nouns
Our country is colossal, much too big for the nightly news. Our series continues where a TMN editor randomly calls people in towns around America to find out what’s really going on.
* Anonymous Democratic legislative staffer explains the NRA's congressional grading system. * A zoomable online map of the AIDS quilt--now too large to fit on the National Mall. * Applying Romney's statement that a new president's first year doesn't count, Obama has created more than
* Fighter jets bomb areas of Syria's second city of Aleppo; Russia expects Syria not to use chemical weapons. * Man in goat suit seen living among goats in Utah mountains. * Serbia becomes global hub for sex-change surgery. * Writer looks for Fitzgerald's first love in Lake Forest, Ill.
Rules are strict. Instructions are confusing, intimidating. Are your possessions "unclean" and therefore banned? Will you survive? A guide through the rules and corporate yatter of London's sparkling Olympic mess.
* In light of Penn State's punishment, it's time to reread "The Shame of College Sports." * Physicists say you should run, not walk, to avoid the rain. * Sally Ride, first American woman to fly in space, dies at 61 from pancreatic cancer. * Brief report on
* Drug-resistant HIV in sub-Saharan Africa blamed on poor monitoring, lack of consistent treatment. * The end of the AIDS epidemic is in sight—worldwide infection rate has declined 20% since 2001. * With highly suggestible people becoming key to studies, hypnosis is making a comeback in scientific circles. * Bloomberg to Obama, Romney:
Now that Wimbledon is done and the Olympics are a week away, we’ve had a nice window of extreme American tennis. After Wimbledon, there are seven weeks of U.S. ATP events (branded the “US Open Series,” as if that means anything to anyone—tennis branding is a disaster)
* Study suggests tax havens hide $21 trillion. * Iraqi insurgents declare new offensive—13 coordinated attacks kill 93 people. * U.S. expands drug war to Africa to prevent traffickers destabilizing small and weak states. * Secular and Islamic, Western and Eastern, a regional superpower, growing fast: Whatever Turkey's doing is
Glossy paintings of young women in Iran inspired by Playboy magazines the artist found in her father’s closet
* Possible GOP veep candidate Rob Portman fights reputation as a dull, well-regarded wonk; does a mean imitation of a chicken, for example. * Why the fossil fuel industry is Public Enemy No. 1. * Spain is still investigating the baby-stealing phenomenon that resulted in 300,000 kids gone. * On average, 38 million
In this edition of the TMN Weekender, a selection of stories exploring the essence of Englishness. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* At least 14 dead, 50 wounded at Colorado movie theater shooting, suspect in custody. * Yesterday was bloodiest day in Syrian conflict—government retook check-points, Damascus suburbs. * Number of phones will soon exceed world population, but a quarter of people still don't have one. * As an activist shareholder Bill
* How North Korea set the world on edge for an hour this week. * The Aegean island of Ikaria wants to quit Greece and join Austria—1,242 miles away. * New research supports theory of plants that suck carbon dioxide to the ocean floor and ease climate change. * Anthony Doerr on
* Clashes overnight with many killed across Syria after the death of three ministers. * Slideshow of photographs from Hamas's summer camp. * No new malls have been built in the United States since 2006. * U.S. does surprisingly well on list of countries measured for sedentary lifestyle—unlike Malta. * Man
* Bomb kills Syria's defense minister and other top officials. * Inside the opening of the aptly named First Somali Bank. * On the global trade in human corpses—terms like "harvesting," "buying," and "human sock puppets." * Michele Bachmann releases document outlining how the Muslim
Recalling a favorite book from childhood is easy; trickier is remembering your younger self’s exact reaction to it. We canvassed young readers from across the globe to find out what they thought of their latest summer read.
* The heirs of Walmart have as much wealth as the bottom 40% of Americans combined. * Spanish royalty take a pay cut. * China, Brazil, Mexico send big increases of visitors to the States; Britain, Spain, Ireland sending less. * The remarkable contents of Steve Wozniak’s travel backpack. * Pretty pictures of the
* Former Syrian ambassador doesn't rule out the possibility of Assad using chemical weapons. * Ethiopia sentences top journalist to 18 years in prison for doing his job. * Indonesians are the world's most bullish consumers, beating Indians. * Remarkable round-up of links regarding the London Olympics. * Improv Everywhere'
* An overview of the rumors and reports of Assad's arsenal—from obsolete tanks to the latest in anti-aircraft. * FDA approves drug for prevention of HIV transmission for those at high risk of contracting the disease. * Brian Lam visits the last undersea research station. * How whales defend themselves from
Portraits of jets at play in the Italian Alps, children posed like adults, and adults bobbing in the sea. Each picture toys with where our eyes are drawn and unsettles our experience.
* From Capitol Hill to the Treasury Department, interviews granted only with quote approval have become the default position. * Evidence surfaces of police surveillance on political campaigners at Glastonbury Festival. * "Occupy" is now a summer camp. * When carrying condoms becomes evidence of intent for sex workers. * In countries where
For Americans, invitations to Israel—with lavish parties, higher education, and United Airlines tote bags—come easy. But if your homeland lies elsewhere, Israel’s welcome is far less loving.
* Clinton drives through hail of tomatoes and shoes thrown by protesters yelling “Monica, Monica, Monica” in Egypt. * More than 1,000 counties in 26 states named natural-disaster areas due to drought. * Newsweek's cover story on internet-caused craziness relies on "a blog post, a quote, and a single
In our latest TMN Weekender, a selection of stories about when the weather goes awry. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Innovative presentation of terrifying emails from the Penn State scandal. * First-hand account of running with the bulls in Spain. * Profile of Novak Djokovic's training regimen and the top tennis players' operating philosophies. * TMN's tennis commentator Nic Brown tracks the fates of America's next
Every summer, many are injured when bulls run the streets in Spain. A report from inside one man’s skull before the rocket goes off.
* UN confirms Syria used heavy weaponry yesterday against Tremseh, killing more than 200. * America's economy rebuilds itself in the private sector, particularly energy. * Katie Couric's face on giant billboards in Baghdad to inspire hope that power outages will stop. * Penn State posts guard at Paterno statue
* BBC World Service bids goodbye to its long-time broadcasting home. * Air conditioning has helped spur economic growth, political development, and obesity. * Kentucky state officeholders must swear they've never fought in a duel. * Popular erotica localized for the USA. * We wear pants because our ancestors rode horses. * Vintage public-transportation
A trilogy of erotic novels are sweeping America, scheduled to sell 20 million copies this week. Here, a state-by-state guide on how the books are being adapted for local markets.
* "Physician dispensing"—where doctors make bundles by operating in-office pharmacies. * Old records are outselling new ones for the first time since 1991. * Since 1978, shelter in the U.S. rose four times in price, milk doubled, and gas more than quintupled. * Sanctions cause problems for Iran's
* Human rights activist jailed for three months for tweet criticizing Bahrain's Prime Minister. * Conspiracy theories are fun and games until someone thinks you're the Zodiac Killer. * Errol Morris would like to know if you're an optimist or a pessimist. * Glaxo faces $3bn fine for
Our correspondent forecasts the week ahead for five volunteers and discovers an eerie rate of success. Secrets, tips, and truths revealed about how to predict the future.
* The dour Spanish economy explained with charts and numbers. * Kosovo told it can't join the Olympics until it gains admission to the United Nations. * Far-right extremism reaches dangerous levels in Greece. * The allure of combat is a trap, a ploy, an old, dirty game of deception in which
* Report shows that drillers' frack water can rise up from more than a mile underground. * Three months later, judge Cunningham explains why there was no fiction Pulitzer this year. * Correspondence between Fitzgerald and his editor over finishing The Great Gatsby. * New game: Was that a quote from Romney or
* Past year in the U.S. has been the hottest since modern record-keeping began in 1895. * Investigation into how Gallup and other polling groups conduct studies. * How America rates countries on their efforts to prevent human trafficking. * Called not black enough, Wayne Brady offers to happily slap Bill Maher in
The eyes of the world—even Pippa’s!—were trained on Centre Court at Wimbledon yesterday for the epic final between then-six-time champion Roger Federer (he won, should you live under a rock) and no-time champion Andy Murray, the first Brit in 74 years to reach the final. This was
* The New Yorker cover that would have run if the Affordable Health Care Act had been struck down. * How CNN and Fox screwed up the Supreme Court Obamacare decision. * Self-published science e-books are democratizing crackpottery; a review of Indivisible Earth: Consequences of Earth's Early Formation as a Jupiter-Like
Large-format abstract photographs that use light to create celestial shapes we recognize—in some cases because they began as Christmas lights.
* Thousands face internet loss today as the FBI shuts down servers used by thieves. * Five signs of the Chinese economic apocalypse. * Maps measure America's recent scorching temperatures. * Washington farmers hire helicopters to blow-dry their cherries. * Innovation is now devoted to smaller-scale, less far-reaching, less conspicuous advances. * Army to
* Job numbers fall short of expectations and barely improve over May. * Falling labor mobility in the U.S. may reflect a more efficient market. * Overhead photographs of Mexican workers carpooling. * Indian police are still administering illegal, dangerous "truth serum." * Inside the many conspiracy theories that say Arafat was
* Clinton says China and Russia must "pay a price" for blocking UN sanctions that could help topple Assad. * WSJ: In a stroke, Romney has contradicted Republicans across the country. * Romney raised $100m in June. * Global study finds Americans most likely to be anxious, followed by Colombians and New
* June 2009 Air France crash attributed to technical failure and human error. * Former teenage bomber remembers the Algerian fight for independence. * Inquiry says the Fukushima crisis was a preventable disaster resulting from collusion among regulators, the Japanese government, and the plant operator. * New Orleans now has the country's
* Nearly half of Americans don't know that the Supreme Court ruled on health care. * Iran mothballs its embargoed oil in a fleet of repainted tankers. * Ode to Rachel Maddow. * Tea Party rep says opponent should quit talking about her military service—she lost her legs in Iraq—because
* Emails show Paterno played a key role in Sandusky’s never being reported to authorities. * The Euro Cup proves you don't need good politics to host a global sporting event—no one cares. * Washington DC's Vietnamese restaurants rely on Hispanic cooks for survival. * Total biomass of
* The U.S. economy is pointing downward judging by office furniture and industrial chemicals. * Assad regrets downing Turkish jet. * The longer the euro area’s debt crisis drags on, the more it resembles a medieval rack of economic torture. * Garbage scavengers of Athens now seen as harbingers of Greece'
* NFL fans prefer watching games at home; NFL responds by offering free wifi and special apps. * Celebrate the iPhone's birthday by turning yours off. * Graphic explains how to operate a rotary telephone. * We mostly ignore wallpaper these days, but it has a long history of social mobility. * Hysteria
O loss! On the fresh grass of Wimbledon! And I don’t mean Rafael Nadal. Remember, this is the place to which you come to read about players about whom no one cares. Except for me. And you too—or at least your future self. Because I’m talking about
* PRI regains power in Mexico with Pena Nieto appearing to win the weekend's presidential election. * Afghans fear coup or civil war once America leaves. * Five African towns "that should be on every investor's radar." * Jon Ronson profiles the financial lives of six people, from
In our latest TMN Weekender, a selection of stories from the intersection of health, employment, insurance, and legislation. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* More than 100 million Americans don’t go to the dentist because they can’t afford it. * Sixty percent of you would reach into a toilet bowl to retrieve your smartphone. * Mennonite urine is four times lower in BPAs than everyone else's. * This week's TMN Weekender:
When it launched, Playboy was a literary power, nude photos or not. Its offices also happened to be an interesting place to work—for women.
* Public's confusion about healthcare reform is sad, especially when most people confront it daily. * Conflicting reporting on the big Supreme Court decision. * How the top Supreme Court blog prepared for yesterday. * Round-up of controversial big cases. * Every day for 14 years, John Wojnowski has stood outside the Vatican
* Chief Justice Roberts votes to uphold health-care reform, arguing the “individual mandate” is constitutional. * Majority of Americans cannot name the Supreme Court's chief justice. * Examples of countries that have implemented near-universal health care. * Interactive guide to the Affordable Care Act ruling's key portions. * Coloradoans fleeing wildfires
When your daily commute to the office means speeding on two wheels up busy avenues, a meeting with a crosstown taxi cab can change your life. But sometimes being a New Yorker requires taking the city head on.
* The fight over the Affordable Care Act is a debate that's lasted since the Articles of Confederation. * In a program backed by the CDC, Walgreen's to begin offering free HIV tests at its walk-in clinics. * After finding little evidence it will produce tumors in humans, FDA
* Iranians boycott milk and bread to protest prices of basic goods rising daily. * Odds of war with Iran now at 36%. * Legal strategy behind Assange's cunning move into the Ecuadorian embassy to avoid extradition to the States. * Botanists still unsure of how exactly plants know which way is
Our man in Boston and the author discuss her latest novel, Enchantments, the writing process, how book reviewing works at the New York Times, what it's like to be nastied, and the life and times of two writers raising children without a television in the house.
* Civilian court strikes down military decree reimposing martial law in Egypt. * Article's headline says it all: "Hillary Clinton’s Last Tour as a Rock-Star Diplomat." * The world's first and only cake museum, housed in LA, is likely to be destroyed. * Growing evidence that injecting
* New web domains open another era of land grabs; ICANN earmarks $350 million to cover complaints. * A major drug arrest could have boosted Mexico's incumbent party's presidential candidate—if they'd nabbed the right guy. * New York vs. Los Angeles, from car culture to doorknobs.
* Idle summer vacations can result in the loss of up to three months' progress made during the school year. * Arthur Miller recalls an un-airconditioned New York summer. * A comparative history of Lacoste and Fred Perry tennis shirts. * Vatican hires Fox correspondent to help its communications strategy. * Brain-like computer created
* Fallows: By advancing party politics over legality, the John Roberts Supreme Court is reminiscent of Chinese courts. * What killed us, then and now: More people dying of cancer means we're living long enough to die of cancer. * On the hunt for disease, a man meticulously tracks all his
There was no blood drawn this week, no Perrier signs smashed, and although Melanie Oudin did not even play in a tournament this week, she is still the young American I am most excited about this Monday morning. Today starts Wimbledon, and the officials at the All England Club have
* Joy and despair after Mohamed Morsi was declared winner of Egypt’s first presidential election. * Parable for the economic recovery found in a story about co-op babysitting. * The future of city life is underground—for power plants and utilities, if not for people. * Title of world’s “biggest” currency goes
Vivid, fun, and surprising photographs where sex is mysterious and playful. Some images may not be safely viewed in an office environment.
In our latest TMN Weekender, a selection of stories by those who endure—whether by choice or otherwise—the agony and ecstasy of basketball. Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
With blockbusters like “Snow White and the Huntsman,” “Zombie Overkill,” and “Yahtzee: Alien Invasion,” it’s already a smash hit for summer movies. But film buffs know Summer 2013 will be even better—and we’re not just talking about Jerry Bruckheimer’s live-action “Hungry Hungry Hippo Apocalypse.”
* What you need to know about Fast and Furious and Eric Holder. * Looking to end the Syrian conflict, world leaders offer Assad a peaceful exile. * Excerpts from Castro's newspaper column. * Up to 95 million workers could be unemployed by 2020 because the current number of low-skill jobs will
* As U.S. politics tosses around immigration reform, high numbers of migrants are still dying while trying to cross the border. * In blackout-prone Baghdad, residents call on the "generator man" to deliver much-needed electricity. * Former KKK leader David Duke endorses anti-semitic former Black Panther for Brooklyn’s 8th
* Prosecutors in Norway call for mass killer Breivik to be deemed insane. * Supreme Court puts off deciding whether rock stars have a right to drop the F-bomb on TV. * Supremes' momentous healthcare decision could be announced today. Or not. * Belgian academic describes being tortured in Syria. * Horrible stories of
* Obama has a unique opportunity to rebuild a mutually beneficial alliance between Turkey and Israel. * World's largest ministry for gay Christians no longer trying to "cure" homosexuality. * Montana GOP ends efforts to make homosexual acts illegal, reinforces its opposition to gay marriage. * The latest wave of
Our film scholars and Wes Anderson watchers, along with movie critic Michelle Orange, evaluate the filmmaker’s latest release, “Moonrise Kingdom,” where people get struck by lightning as a matter of course.
* List of countries said to be treating slavery victims as criminals or ignoring them entirely. * Guatemalan vacation ruined by gang-bangers—how the War on Drugs sustains the drug problem. * Assange takes refuge in Ecuador's embassy in London to avoid extradition to Sweden. * Peruvian-made pisco attempting a comeback in
The next time jet lag ruins your day—exhausted, yawning, blurry-eyed, fiending for any means of correction—what if you were to stop looking for a cure inside purgatory and, instead, embrace the cloud?
* In Pakistan, preference for boy babies has led to an alarmingly skewed gender ratio at birth and orphanages filled with girls. * Interactive timeline tracks Obama administration's drone death tolls, finds the claims don't add up. * Unlike previous fad intoxicants, the hysteria about bath salts seems well
* U.S. household net worth plummeted 35% from 2005 to 2010. * The economic history of the last 2,000 years in one graph. * Circulation drops at al-Qaeda's Inspire magazine. * Doctors quiet the war on bacteria, as we learn more about the 100 trillion microbes that have evolved inside
Eye-catching landscapes don’t need glitter to produce mystery. Beautiful monochrome paintings that capture the vastness of sea, sand, and sky.
* EU commission president blames eurozone crisis on American banks and capitalism. * Researchers conclude that robbing banks is a terrible way to make money. * Greece's Sunday election means it now faces "the sweat of fiscal austerity," but that doesn't mean it's back to
* Hillary: I [understand] what people's political problems are, even in authoritarian regimes, because everybody's got politics. * Not only is food aid ineffective in helping nations in conflict, it can prolong the violence. * NYPL lunch exhibit to feature working Automat—though it will dispense recipes, not food.
Oh, the stuff of legend! Young Americans make good! Young Americans break down! And not-so-young Argentinians draw real human blood! It was a very good week in the world of unwatched tennis. Let us start with big goofy Sam Querrey, who made it to the semis on the grass courts
* First relief, then skepticism as Greece votes for the pro-austerity New Democracy party. * Sunday elections give Socialists comfortable power seat for reshaping France. * Taglines sought for new Karl Marx Mastercard. * Explainer on why until recently Berlin rents have been so cheap. * Adam Gopnik on Americans' Olympic fervor. * Interviews with
* Interactive walkthrough to the impending Supreme Court decision on the 2010 Affordable Heath Care Act. * An open letter to the state of Pennsylvania. * How the hyphen disappeared from "Czecho-Slovakia." * Germany's North-South divide highlights cultural differences such as the preferred beer, sausage, and card game. * A Prague
* Netanyahu would rather America do the bombing, and he has much more confidence in Romney's belligerence than in Obama's. * Representative censored for saying "vagina" during abortion discussion. * Oregon man hospitalized with the plague—on average 11 cases of the disease are reported in the
In our latest TMN Weekender, a selection of stories from our archive by children of fathers (and fathers of children). Ready to read here on TMN or in an e-book you can export to your Kindle, iPad, iPhone, etc.
* Notes on the recent full-blown outbreak of UN Derangement Syndrome. * U.S. now running a spy network of small air bases around Africa—overseen by Special Operations forces, not the CIA. * Report on Spain's independent rock scene with sound clips and videos. * Voyager I probe, launched in 1977,
* How drones help al Qaeda. * U.S. troops in Afghanistan become attached to their robot companions, refuse replacement models. * America's role in the upcoming Afghan election: At least for now, there's support no matter who wins the race. * "There is a difference between a focus
Continuing our series of randomly calling people around the U.S. to find out what's going on in their towns, this time we focus on the Olympics—how do folks who come from the same communities as America's Olympians feel about their star athletes?
* Bombings across Iraq kill 84, injure nearly 300 in the deadliest day since U.S. troops withdrew. * Hatching new methods to recycle valuable aluminum cans—it's not as easy as you may think. * Forget 2012: Mankind will seal its ecological doom in 2025 if it doesn't
* It's time to acknowledge Syria's conflict as a civil war. * World peace levels from 2007 to 2012. * Tree density, as observed with Google Earth, makes for a unique indicator of income inequality. * Relevant to Bloomberg's proposed soda ban: How the working class traded healthful
* UN report says Syrian troops have tortured children and used them as human shields on tanks. * Fascinating quick appraisal of working conditions of children in 1934. * Pictures of Burma/Myanmar in transition. * The Lower East Side, then and now. * How to get into and out of an economic crisis, with
* Jeb Bush: Reagan "would have a hard time" in today's GOP. * The evolution of America's political parties. * India, Pakistan battle over an icy wasteland where more soldiers die from the elements than from enemy fire. * Due to housing patterns, U.S. schools are more
The thing you’ve come to Sevilla to see is the ritualized killing of bulls. What you also see: ancient architecture, handsome crowds, enormous animals, glittering suits, red capes, long swords, tradition.
* Talk of xenophobia accompanies TV ads in Egypt that link journalists and spies. * Hosni Mubarak defibrillated twice after his heart stopped on Monday. * Likely priorities for Obama if he wins a second term. * Spain to fall under international supervision after a bailout for its banks is agreed upon. * Q&
What do you do this morning if you’re a young American stuck in Europe? First, remove your beret. The French Open is over, but Wimbledon is two weeks away. If you fly home, you won’t even have time to unpack your bags before you have to come right
* In Mexico's presidential election, the candidates use the drug war to attack each other, issue sound bites. * Researcher discovers doctor's report of the Lincoln assassination. * People are 14% more likely to die on their birthdays, probably because of the "birthday blues." * Nadal wins record-breaking
Portraits that find Manhattan’s Lower East Side in 1980 and 2010 showing different faces—blight, renewal, and the pursuit of hipsterdom—and also many things that (thankfully) never change.
Basically, if you’re the kind of person who stays in bed on Saturday mornings with a big mug of coffee and a sheaf of reading material, this is for you. If you’re the kind of person who dreams of being that kind of person once the kids are
* Dutch soccer players at Euro 2012 return from Auschwitz visit to be taunted with racist chants. * "Family, tradition, religion, brass bands, and social solidarity"—all that's holding together communities in Spain. * Travel guides' tips for visitors to the U.S. * Life expectancy of New Yorkers
There is a brand of humor with an inherent meaning so dark that, even though we may wish we hadn't laughed, we're programmed to think it's funny. An explanation of a joke about a pedophile.
* As Syria's primary arms supplier, Russia enjoys the spotlight that comes with being involved, but looks for a solution. * Putin's watch collection is worth more than his income. * A look at the Obama administration's on-again, off-again relationship with leaks. * Friedersdorf: Obama supporters know his
* Quick summary of 50 years in Caribbean politics' "centrifugal" power shifts. * The working class votes red not because of misinformation, but because of the right's strong vision. * Women in northern Iraq commit suicide to avoid arranged marriages with their cousins. * Design school is the new
* Nasdaq pledges $40 million to settle broker disputes in Facebook IPO. * Silicon Valley's next hot tech IPO. * Imagining life after a "total hack," where everything you've clicked can be seen by everyone else. * Chinese students stress over gao kao, notoriously difficult college entrance exams
Victory has many faces—some of them just happen to be painted. A story of violence, true love, the road from New York to Lexington, and the religion that is college basketball.
* Party leaders, presidential candidates, and talking heads judged on truthiness. * Five ideas to manage a potential break-up of the eurozone. * Norwegian prison to hire friends to spend time with mass killer Breivik. * Most deadly attack in weeks kills 20 at Kandahar airport. * Study finds patients fear their doctors and believe
Being overseas, the traveler is often taken for a diplomat—to explain his native country’s strange ways and beliefs. For example, why do all Americans belong to cults? What does Michelle Pfeiffer eat for breakfast? And why so many guns?
* Democrats picked a fight and lost, but it's no harbinger of Obama's fate. * NYC rescinds no-tolerance policy on possession of less than an ounce of marijuana. * Bloomberg's ban on sugary drinks has its critics, but he has evolutionary biology—and our predilection to coercion—
* The economic case for bribery. * Complete our 2012 Reader Survey, and you could win a TMN Prize Pack. * Happiness is statistically abnormal, consists of a discrete cluster of symptoms, is associated with a range of cognitive abnormalities. * Pretexting, baiting, and other social engineering techniques scammers use to exploit "bugs
* Western journalists, including Pulitzer-winning Peter Arnett, on what it's like to move to China to teach journalism. * Notes on the under-researched phenomenon that is drunk speech. * Roundtable with the creators of Breaking Bad, Mad Men, and Deadwood (aka The Milch Man) on the art of current TV. * Previews
* Wifi owners engage in amateur campaigning through network naming. * Google warns Chinese users when a search term is likely to get their internet disconnected. * Shanghai stock exchange falls 64.89 on the anniversary of Tiananmen Square—China blocks searches for news of today's market close. * Related: Jonathan Gourlay
Bye-bye Williams sisters and all that. It’s week two of the French Open now, and almost no American players are left. But just yesterday, there she was: Sloane Stephens, a 19-year-old sunbeam straight out of Florida and one of the last Americans standing. She’s black, with a smile
Our man in Boston talks to the Pulitzer-winning novelist about his new memoir, Thoughts Without Cigarettes, as well as nights in New York, parks in Berlin, how publishing currently compares to Indian restaurants, what life would be like if Mambo Kings hadn't hit it big, and the difficulties of writ
* U.S. and Pakistan locked in negotiations while drone "blitz" continues. * Mick Jagger and Arcade Fire help Saturday Night Live say goodbye to Kristen Wiig. * Pop music is longer, slower, sadder—only 43.5% of recent hits are written in a major mode. * Round-up from the New York
* Architect Anish Kapoor assesses London's Olympic Tower. * A refreshingly old-fashioned spat between linguists and the New Yorker about the purpose of a dictionary. * Placement explains why Guinness bubbles sink instead of rise. * Clamshell packaging declared worse than NYC parking signs, pull handles on push doors. * Crab-tapping-at-my-window will probably
We open the bunker on doomsayers preparing for the end of civilization—but not all them will survive the first hour of armageddon.
* Obama guns for the failures of "Romney economics" in Massachusetts. * Ladies, if you experience discrimination in an "open" or "wild" office, keep quiet and profit. * Elites in Egypt would like this election to be the revolution's end; Tahrir youth see further. * Aaron
* Let's back up a moment to explain why a revolution was even needed: before 1960, the province was basically run by the Catholic Church. * Fugitive porn star wanted by Interpol for mailing a severed foot to Canadian political party headquarters. * Cold War fears spurred the creation of Google
For psychotherapists, maintaining a stable, flawless public image is critical. But when a marriage and family counselor actually goes through a mid-life crisis herself, all bets are off and here come the tattoos, affairs, and professional infidelities.
* Palestinian prisoners end mass hunger strike; Israel conditionally agrees not to renew detentions without charge. * "Old people smell" found to exist. * Syria pleads with journalists to ignore recent massacre and wait for its own report to be issued. * Founder of Russia's Facebook tosses $150 paper airplanes
* Scientists observe killer bees evolve to be more gentle than defensive if they live on an island. * Bluefin tuna off California have trace radiation from Fukushima—but it's not as scary as it sounds. * Reluctant suburbanite comes to terms with life outside the city line. * Hague gives Charles
From 3:00 to 3:30 p.m. ET today, tell the Biblioracle the last five books you've read, and he'll recommend your next favorite novel.
* First self-immolations protesting Chinese rule occur in Lhasa. * Events worsen in Syria for both Assad and the opposition, and the UN is in a do-nothing bind. * Good Morning America headline: "Nicole Kidman Urinates On Zac Efron In The Paperboy." * Kids with active friends more likely to be active
A two-week journey across the US—specifically towns named Paris, with a clipboard and a hundred questionnaires—to uncover what Americans think about the French.
* Desire to outshine the Soviets may have led to collaborations between the CIA and Paris Review. * Full account of quizzing Americans from Maine to Nevada about the French. * Tuesday poem: "The End and the Beginning," by Szymborska. * Everything that Americans should know before embracing Eurovision. * Related: In case
Venus Williams just told Vanity Fair that her biggest inspiration in life (other than her sister) is the band 311. My brain melts. If this isn’t proof that one of America’s leading tennis names is no longer young, I don’t know what is. Remember, she’s a
* Profile of Obama, former liberal law professor, as kill-master leader of the shadow war against al Qaeda. * In Peru, anti-mining protests lead to two deaths and a state of emergency. * Idiot's guide to Egypt's election. * Studies find everybody has the capacity to be dishonest, and almost
I’d first heard about the site on my outing to St. Paul’s Church in the Bronx. Frank, the lecturer at St. Paul’s that day, told me about the memorial, and gave me contact information for one Martin Maher, Brooklyn’s Chief of Staff for New York’s
Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, when we weren’t squeezing every drop from air miles, from life, and from reading too much into the crime statistics, we were finding all
* New research shows Mars "has life's building blocks," though there's still no sign of fossilized SUVs. * The hidden costs of being a New York City cabbie. * After inadvertently transporting shellfish across the ocean, deep-sea scientists warn against removing organisms from their habitats. * Unlike private
* State Dept. human rights report turns the spotlight on China for deteriorating conditions. * Chinese citizens revolt over a $630 million plan to plant trees. * People who do not know the Bible well have been gulled into thinking it is a good guide to morality. * Solar plane takes off from Switzerland,
* Polls open on the second day of Egypt's first presidential election. * BBC live blog of Egypt's election. * Pakistani doctor who helped find Bin Laden sentenced to 33 years for spying. * White guy explains how to be hired by Chinese firms seeking white males to attend meetings.
* Proposed law would ban anonymous comments on New York-based sites. * Treating virtue as a commodity. * Neil Armstrong, whose father was an auditor, gives rare interview to Australian CPA group. * The photo of a boy touching Obama's hair is more than cute; it's become a deeply rooted
* Irony in Zimbabwe's gradual improvement: Mugabe is necessary for now. * Senior GOPers increasingly bullish about Romney, whom they winced over during the primaries. * Analysis finds most members of Congress speak like high school sophomores. * Egypt's election matters because "its winner will assume a crucial role&
* Syria proves countries with strong middle classes and diverse economies are worse at overthrowing dictators than those without. * Obama's spending binge never happened—federal spending is rising at its slowest pace since the end of the Korean War. * Author of the book on Romney's nightstand says
* Four confirmed dead in two days on Everest. * Eight hurt in shooting following NBA playoff game in Oklahoma City. * Deadspin finds Yahoo! Sports writes at a lower reading level than Sports Illustrated for Kids. * Specially made atlas to teach geography to the blind. * American speech grows more homogeneous as regional
* ANC goes to court to remove the satirical Zuma painting, thus ensuring painting's celebrity. * Putin shifts especially unpopular ministers over to the Kremlin. * IAEA chief says Iran nuclear inspections deal not far off. * According to The Atlantic's Iran War Dial, there's now a 37%
Paintings crammed with matriarchs, wrestlers, and girls wearing bananas on their heads—where quite a lot more is going on than first appears.
* The CIA is not considered governed by rule of law—an alarming situation that's been legitimized by Obama. * Internet erupts over song by Kitty Pryde; singer says it's just grilled cheese, not gourmet food. * If you find New York foodie feasting stupid, this link is for
* Notes on life in Egypt three days before voting begins in "the first competitive presidential election in the history of the Arab world." * Ladies, attention: Zuckerberg is off the marriage market. * Hormones, not video games, explain why teens stay up all night, and why school should start later.
* Argument for a two-state solution based on coordinated unilateral actions, without negotiation. * What if we could crowdfund militia? Meet Kickstriker. * Americans getting “more liberal” on gay marriage, “more conservative” on gun rights. * Controversial painting of South African president's penis reported sold. * Thom Steinbeck answers questions about receiving letters
A plea for safety from cyclists to motorists.
* "Friending," as explained in 2004. * Looking back at the punk-like radicalism of Donna Summer, who died yesterday at 63. * A video timeline of Donna Summer's most memorable songs. * More than 100 DJ sets available for download from drum and bass legend LTJ Bukem. * Skechers to pay
* White births no longer a majority in America; "minorities" gain majority for the first time in U.S. history. * Quintessential American food: the taco. * Short study of Euro-fringe currencies—the British pound, the Bulgarian lev—and how they're absorbing anxiety. * Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's
* Italian blogger sketches outline of U.S. shadow war in Horn of Africa. * New York Senate passes a resolution honoring Adam Yauch. * A tribute from the Muppets to Jim Henson, who died 22 years ago yesterday. * In a recent poll, Americans think organ donors should be compensated. * Death is bad
* Groundbreaking Columbia law school investigation strongly suggests innocence of executed Texas man. * European leaders may boycott soccer tournament in Ukraine due to prison abuse of ex-opposition leader. * James Lipton gives Mitt Romney tips on how to act human. * A blind man explains his first lesson in echolocation, how he gained
* With 16 million Alzheimers sufferers projected by 2050, new treatments and a national strategy might beat the clock. * War crimes trial of Ratko Mladic begins, accused of crimes against humanity, deaths of 100,000 people. * Despite drug war's unimaginably gory crimes, Mexicans are apathetic, disturbed by their attitudes.
Using a darkened home, precisely placed mirrors, and the occasional judicious cut in a wall, light becomes sculpture.
* Germany's growth helps the eurozone barely avoid returning to recession. * Hollande to dine with Merkel in Berlin on his swearing-in day. * Part two of "Our French Connection" heads to Kentucky's Paris and Versailles. * Related: New excerpt available from Paris, I Love You but You&
* Massachusetts, the most Sweden-like of states, is also one of the most successful in the country. * When you have a bank as big as JPMorgan...almost anything could count as "hedging." * From the mid-'70s to six years ago, Kodak operated a secret nuclear reactor beneath its
* Economists, scientists team up to find the gene that makes people good at business. * Fraudulent Stradivari dealer was so persuasive banks provided him with millions in return for photocopied appraisals. * Interview with a safecracker. * Related: "With Dicks in, all 6 WA congressional Democrats favor repeal of gay-marriage ban.” * Christian
* If Greece fails, global markets will plummet, and could take Obama's re-election hopes with them. * Europe slips in survey of the nations people admire most—China is on the rise. * Culture war in Israel imminent with plans to end military exemptions for full-time religious students. * Photojournalist Horst Faas,
Before the internet, before Facebook, before Twitter, a group of British documentary filmmakers launched what has become the grand-daddy of reality television. What can Seven Up! tell us about our own experiences in the (self-induced) spotlight?
* Brazil passes law returning booze sales to national stadiums in anticipation of 2014 World Cup. * Argentina passes world's most progressive transgender rights laws. * Trustees of tiny all-male Deep Springs College object to administration's plan to admit women. * Prince Charles appears as Scottish weather forecaster. * Hollande may
On Tuesday, Rosecrans and Paul Ford will read at New York City’s KGB Bar at 7 p.m.. Rosecrans and Paul have an unlikely friendship, but we’re pretty sure this will be an event that TMN fans will not want to miss. Plus, there’s a party afterward.
* How the week ends: Michele Bachmann is no longer Swiss. * Photos of the lost town of Kaixian before it was flooded by the Three Gorges Dam project. * Round-up of energy-related conflicts around the world. * Speech transcripts show Obama using the word "extraordinary" an extraordinary amount. * Hedge-funders now despise
* Ode to the secretary-spy who went to Saigon, and was the first American woman killed there. * Not-comic comic: Memories of being raised by an abusive mother. * Design-based solutions for water management in India. * Green-energy excitement of the day: Power from onion waste. * Philippe Starck designs gadget that makes you instantly
When “small batch” equals big dollars and one-person companies are supported by corporate-size websites, is “hand-made” what we think it is? A report from North America’s largest consumer craft fair, where the competition for puppet dollars is intense.
* Rush-hour car-bomb attacks kill 40 in Damascus, part of an "alarming upsurge." * Explosions are passé in Hollywood—we have entered the era of the implosion. * Obama endorses same-sex marriage, a position he backed in 1996. * I think of all the gay kids out there who now know they
* Dilemma for the Outer Banks: Preserving wild horses could threaten birds and nesting turtles. * State of the vaccine effort. * Journalism is being replaced. * Blogger uses the Journal to speak out after the Chronicle of Higher Education fires her for mocking Black Studies. * Brief, accessible piece on the state of nihilism—
A boy asking for money. An editor yelling at him to go away. An author, a rising star, dying young from a heart attack. A group of followers ending their lives at the wish of a single man.
* Greece's exit from the euro zone now looking increasingly likely. * Bomber given the advanced underwear device found to be a CIA and Saudi intelligence informant. * Economics lessons on how to negotiate with pirates. * Notes on why the "broccoli argument" is a rhetorical tour de force that
* America is "obscenely comfortable in conflating black with crime." * Responding to "Why Black Women Are Fat." * France's center-right party stares glumly at new paths in a post-Sarkozy future. * Part one of "Our French Connection"—figuring out what Americans think of the French
Intricate designs found in large-scale, labor-intensive relief prints made from the cross sections of trees and lumber.
* Poll says North Carolina very likely to amend its constitution today to ban same-sex marriage. * Upgraded "underwear bomb" plot foiled before an AQAP (al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula) bomber could reach an airport. * Ethiopia cracks down on international adoptions as reports of fraud surface. * Nuclear-free Japan looks to
* Trove of Lehman emails demonstrates Wall Street's arrogance. * In Brazil, a growing economy demands more energy, but environmental concerns fuel protests against hydroelectric projects. * American pegs hardcore frequent fliers, including those with lifetime passes, for millions in losses. * Communism = integral to capitalism. * WaPo investigation into DC's
* World markets tumble in reaction to this weekend's elections in Europe. * Greek and French voters rejected austerity, throwing Greece into political uncertainty. * Sarkozy was always more our man than theirs, but he changed how the French see the presidency. * Slate on Paris, I Love You but You'
Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, the opinion column’s wrath bled well beyond its confines with the headlines full of people calling others out, correcting them, and setting them straight.
* Schröder: Austerity is strangling Europe; a real political union is now required. * In America in 1968, like Europe today, austerity was the goal; it is not so in America now. * Law schools hire graduates to help them find jobs, and possibly to boost schools' grad-employment rates. * Story of the
* U.S. charges Yonas Fikre, an American who claims he was tortured, with conspiracy. * Video shows assailants who killed Cairo protesters were armed; Army denies the thugs were their own. * Romney's experiment with an openly gay campaign aide short-lived. * Love, Barry: Obama's romantic youth. * Charlie Sheen
* Personal genetics companies "don’t have any straightforward truths to offer users." * Details of a journey from Wall Street to Occupy Wall Street. * Remarkable art made from forsaken dollar bills. * Profile of Romney's wealthy Bain colleague, now author of what may become "the most hated
* New issues released from al Qaeda magazine, with a quiz and humor features along with killing advice. * Dubai is recovering thanks to the Arab Spring and The New Silk Road. * Americans call Pizza Hut's pizza-cheeseburger hybrid an abomination—but the target market is the Middle East. * Will Self
They’re waiting for you. They’re looking for you. Every single night they’re on duty, ready to drive you insane. Stories from the blotter of the men inside your brain.
* Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi sworn in as Burmese parliamentarian. * Fifteen percent of the world's population convinced the end is near—and within their lifetime. * Pictures compared of New York's Union Square on May firsts, 1912 and 2012. * The state of our politics is at
People complain that politics are worse than ever. It happens to be true. But history contains as many examples of the contentious, weird, and wacky as the present—and those absurdities are actually vital to our democracy.
* Nasher museum in Dallas, designed by Piano, besieged by the glare from a neighboring condo tower. * Related: Sarah Hepola on why so few people admit loving Dallas. * Round-up of cityscapes painted on cardboard. * Toni Morrison's real name is Chloe Wofford—Toni does the publicity, she says, but Chloe
* Open letter to NFL recruits encourages them to keep family near, and to stay far away from interior decorators. * If Obama isn't careful, his opponent could conceivably turn his in-jokes and dazzling hipness against him. * Brigid Sweeney on the fall of Sears, once America's mightiest retailer,
To celebrate the release of Rosecrans Baldwin’s Paris, I Love You But You’re Bringing Me Down, we’re giving away copies of the book to the creators of our favorite remixes of the Paris cover. For those of you addicted to creating internet memes, this contest is your
Risen from the streets of Eastern Europe and squalid New York City, bagels now hold a seat at middle- and upper-class breakfast tables everywhere. A look back from a baker with 50,000 “golden visions” under his belt.
* Study finds Congress is more polarized than at any time since Reconstruction, and getting worse. * Photos of President Obama hoisting big sticks. * Gordimer: South Africa's proposed new secrecy measures stand only to conceal corruption and harm society. * Gingrich and Edwards were recently a few dozen miles apart—and
* Dozens wounded after suicide attacks in northwestern Syria. * One World Trade Center to become New York's tallest building at some point soon. * France likely to replace Sarkozy with a milky citizen king. * Report from the rust belt of France. * In India, solar energy is well on its way
* After a dramatic week of political history, the Dutch cobble together austerity measures. * Rodrik: National interests are slaves to economists' ideas and their influence on policymakers. * Billionaire says Titanic II should be ready to sail in 2016. * When you look at America, you have to concede that we have
Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. From the difficulties of dealing pot or having too much to read and learn, to being the biggest working comic without being famous, it’s never as
* Spanish unemployment hits new record high, and Spain gets its sovereign debt downgraded. * South Africa's Kulula airline offers deal for polygamists, “Fourth Wife Flies Free." * Research roundup on swearing—everyone knows how, but it still isn't becoming more frequent. * Nature loves biological weapons, and we
* Blind legal activist escapes house arrest in China, now hiding somewhere in Beijing. * Qiu Xiaolong: Bo Xilai never returned my favorite red Double Happiness Ping-Pong racket. * China's ruling Communist Party's People's Daily website debuts on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, surges 78% on its first
* Hague finds Charles Taylor guilty of aiding Sierra Leone war crimes. * Forty thousand Norwegians gather to sing children's song despised by Norwegian killer. * Then-and-now photo feature by the LA Weekly looks at the LA riots 20 years later. * Clean Air Act credited for 10-year low in air pollution.
Tornado season is a distant concept for most people. For some, it’s a scary but known part of life. Then there’s what happens when one of the South’s deadliest storms in history destroys your house.
* China expected to eat more than twice as much meat as America this year. * Food sources increasingly encourage carnivores—red foxes, coyotes—to trade natural habitats for urban areas. * Testing of nuclear-capable missiles continues, and now it's Pakistan's turn. * Atlantic story refuted: Facebook isn't
* Gingrich unofficially planning to officially announce end of campaign next Tuesday * Recent actions by former Haitian soldiers show why Haiti's better off without a standing army. * Ariely: America needs an agency akin to the FDA to monitor financial products. * Computational neuroscientists estimate the brain's storage capacity
* President Obama slow-jams the news with Jimmy Fallon and The Roots. * Now that Romney has won the primaries, his plan is to attack, attack, attack. * Notes from the "Mormon heart of Mexico," where Mitt Romney's father was born. * Map shows popularity of paying by mobile in
* New book by TMN's @Rosecrans, Paris, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down now available. * Guide to France's history of delightfully conquering people. * Interactive guide to Warren Buffett's thoughts about others. * Brief investigation into why Kevin Hart, the biggest comic working,
Predictions for the baseball season ahead from someone who hasn’t paid attention to sports statistics since the 1992 Orioles.
* One in two new college graduates in the U.S. are jobless or underemployed. * Weak economy, deportation threat reverses trend of Mexican immigration to the U.S. for the first time in four decades. * Rodney King, 20 years after the riots. * London accused of "social cleansing" over plan
* Why women are a foreign policy issue: This is a "full participation" age. * Two takes on recent pan-African development. * One hundred years of shipping summarized in a short video. * Two generations removed from the Holocaust, young Israelis begin to embrace Germany. * Report from inside Europe's only
* After losing to his socialist rival in the first round of France's presidential election, Sarkozy seeks far-right support. * How Paula Reid, who handled the Secret Service scandal, became a leader in the white male-dominated field. * Running with headphones makes you faster. * When exposed to music, dementia patients recall
Irresistible paintings don’t always need giant frames. An interview with the painter who electrified this year’s Whitney Biennial.
Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. Scientific findings, methodical studies, and reports were at the heart of many of the most interesting headlines this week, reminded us of science’s attempts to dispel
* The real story of this year's presidential election in France is the "rock and roll" far left. * Hollande, French Socialist candidate, uses "Ni**as in Paris” video to appeal to youth voters. * Touré considers the mind of a woman who tells him she's
Twenty years ago—or even 10—Nashville was falling to the bottom of any list of top U.S. destinations. Music City's recent resurgence is a reminder of what Americans really value.
* Global approval of U.S. leadership continues to decline, but is still higher than the final years of the Bush administration. * Visualizations of demographic trends if the world were a village of 100 people. * Key to U.S. recovery and growth aren't New York and Los Angeles, but
* Report says Breivik massacre has led Norwegians to believe more strongly in their open society. * Tales from 100 hours of wilderness medical training. * New crisis—pictures of soldiers posing with insurgents' remains—suggests discipline lost in Afghanistan. * Pat Summitt, winningest coach in college basketball, stepping down due to early-onset
* India tests intercontinental missile. * North Korea to continue rocket launches, announces it's abandoning February nuclear deal with U.S. * Nongovernmental organizations sponsor knowledge exchange and collaboration between U.S. and North Korean scientists. * From eyeless shrimp to clawless crabs, deformities becoming common in Gulf seafood—researchers blame 2012
Last week, the Pulitzer Prize board refused to give its prestigious award to any novel published in 2011. Something is clearly broken. We roused our commentators from the Tournament of Books, Kevin Guilfoile and John Warner, for their remarks.
* Afghan school administrators claim drinking water poisoned to keep girls out of class. * Odds considered on when Daw Aung San Suu Kyi will travel abroad, and whether Myanmar will let her back in. * Evidence weighed in the case of a man who believes a stroke made him gay. * Everyday objects
* Buffett's cancer diagnosis refuels conversation about succession for Berkshire Hathaway. * Investigation finds records of colonial crimes were destroyed during the waning years of the British empire. * In his Kremlin-owned TV debut, Julian Assange awkwardly interviews Hezbollah leader. * Stuck with each other, Mitt Romney and the Tea Party look
Israel and Iran are swaying on the brink, if you listen to the international media. A peek inside the Israeli capital finds people acting blasé, but not making summer vacation plans just yet.
* Bizarre publicity stunts will appear in otherwise reasonable science articles as long as they draw attention. * Economics of the matzo market. * Now we know: The New York Times first published "asshole" while quoting Richard Nixon. * H.P. Lovecraft's commonplace book of fragments and ideas. * See also:
* Frustrated by FDA approvals, ALS patients home-brew experimental treatments. * Spate of lawsuits arrive in New York courts from lawyers who find businesses with disabilities violations, then recruit plaintiffs. * Researchers marvel at orangutans' engineering skills while constructing their nests. * Tanzanian farmers try to thwart crop-raiding elephant packs, which work in
Portraits of young men in Panama showing off their bikes—strikingly decorated, variously macho, and altogether “priti.”
* New online dating sites embrace face-to-face singles events over scrolling through profiles. * Germans build a hand-cranked barrel organ out of Legos that plays the Star Wars theme. * Arguing that Tolstoy and Aristotle would consider meme culture an art form. * Ten years in, Andy Baio's favorite Waxy.org posts.
Today the site is still very much a functioning tavern, as I discovered upon arriving last Thursday and being hustled through one dining hall and a whiskey bar by a staff member to reach a central elevator that would take me up to the museum. That night it was hosting
* El Salvador marks its first murder-free day in almost three years. * For the first time, Kim Jong-un addresses the North Korean people—his father addressed the nation only once. * Uncovering new clues in the mystery surrounding the Bush National Guard story that ended Dan Rather's career. * As more
Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. Many of this week’s stories were related to remembering the bad things in order to make a better, happier, and more pain-free future. Researchers find “manipulating”
* Newark mayor, amateur superhero Cory Booker rescues neighbors from burning houses. * During the 2010 snowpocalypse, Booker and his staff were ready with shovels. * The psychology of walking. * Since eventually the lands of Earth will be subsumed by the rising tides of the planet, it is imperative we learn to live
* Unlike past rocket failures, this time North Korea did not maintain its launch was a success. * Researchers find "manipulating" past memories of drug use can help addicts avoid relapse. * As alternative medicine continues to come under fire from conventional physicians, some hope to combine the benefits of both.
* A prisoner of the Taliban for the past three years, American POW Bowe Bergdahl has been largely forgotten. * Kinkade may be synonymous with kitsch, but he's not so different from Hirst. * Research suggests work is killing us slowly, though being unemployed is worse. * Alain de Botton: "I
* After a campaign spent pandering to conservative ideals, Romney tries to win back women voters. * Romney has a Gore problem—people tend to describe both using robot metaphors. * North Korea flouts international pressure, moves forward with plans to launch a weather satellite. * What not to do if your child is
For 50 years, a fire has been raging in mining tunnels beneath Centralia, Pa. With the town mostly evacuated long ago, what’s left? Mostly journalists and other outsiders looking in.
* Norwegian mass murderer Breivik declared sane after second psychiatrist evaluation. * About to deploy on his fourth tour to Iraq, a Marine vanished into the Montana wilderness, and clues as to why are slowly emerging. * "Beware of muses who promise unrealistic timelines" and other tips to improve your writing.
Aristotle There is no doubt that Aristotle’s texts are misogynist; he thought that women were inferior to men and he said so explicitly. For example, to cite Cynthia Freeland’s catalogue: “Aristotle says that the courage of a man lies in commanding, a woman’s lies in obeying;” that
* After reclaiming the top Google search result for his name, Rick Santorum ends his presidential campaign. * Bush: "I wish they weren't called the Bush tax cuts." * The newspaper industry may be saved by wealthy local patrons. * Researchers suggest a good economy creates fewer caregivers and thus
* Iran plans to create its own internet. * Egyptians, upset presidential candidate is out over citizenship dispute, turn to Obama's Facebook page. * Boys choir struggles with the ultimate foe: puberty and deepening voices. * Ad execs panic when study finds consumers in their 20s switch media formats nearly 30 times
To be a male clothing wearer in the early 21st century, you must do what men do, and wear trousers, whether or not the style fits you. Lessons in breaking through fashion anxiety to find yourself—in a pair of Comme des Garçons drop-crotch pants.
* There's time to figure out how to fix climate change, rather than wait for it to kill off 40% of living species. * Typically blamed on human ineptitude, the Titanic disaster may have been caused by rare states of nature. * Between 1912 and 1913 more than a hundred songs
* Crowds filled the streets outside newspaper offices—and outside the Lower Manhattan base of the Titanic's owner, the White Star Line. * Titanic wreckage discoverer says more needs to be done to protect it from damage. * Though luxurious for its time, the Titanic had cramped rooms and no rock-climbing
* China launches an association to reduce trade friction of rare earths, of which it controls 95% of the world's supply. * U.S. physician groups identify 45 common tests and procedures with no proven benefit for many patients. * With the rising prevalence of cochlear implants, deafness is now largely
* At Greece's behest, Macedonia unlikely to get NATO membership until it drops "Republic of." * Why computers aren't helping Peru's classrooms. * Kenyan village police chief fights crime with Twitter. * Young scions of the one percent opt out of family businesses, become tech investors.
During his freshman year at Kansas State in 1972, he joined the Air Force ROTC and took the Air Force Officers Qualifying Test, which he nearly aced. Then during a physical exam his left eye failed him, and he was told he will never fly a jet—at least not
* Last year Florida enacted new voting that could exclude blacks—and swing the 2012 election. * John Carlos remembers his 1968 Olympic Games Black Power salute. * This year's Olympic medals are the heaviest in the history of the Summer Games. * The prospect of admitting IBM's female CEO
I’ve spent my life complaining and arguing and telling stories about the city I came from. Then I changed—but it did, too.
* Boredom, uncomfortable seats, and adjusting to a surreal moral universe: the unusual challenges faced by drone pilots. * How to land a plane in an emergency: Look for a large green field. * Reasonably frank interview with Google co-founder Larry Page after one year of being CEO. * Wealthy Reddit members explain how
* Pensioner kills himself outside Athens parliament, reportedly leaving note blaming austerity measures. * Revenge-porn profiteer says he's ready to get rich if an image he publishes causes someone to off themselves. * Romney's views on Europe are a caricature having little to do with Europe. * Heilemann vets potential
* So far, no deaths reported from yesterday's tornadoes in Texas. * Story of threats facing Georgia shrimpers, who once netted $130,000 fishing four months out of the year. * Luxury watchmaker teaches pair of Sherpas his craft after they save his life on Everest. * Macau, not Las Vegas, now
Salvador Dalí Salvador Dalí wrote about this technique that he called “Slumber with a key.” He featured it as one of his 50 secrets of magic craftsmanship. Dalí presents this afternoon nap as a means of lucid dreaming (though one could argue it is more along the lines of hynagogia)
* In Hong Kong, only 1,193 of seven million people are eligible to vote for the city's chief executive. * Chinese newspapers and magazines have semi-secret rate cards for favorable coverage. * Advancing a candidate for Egypt's presidential election creates a no-win situation for the Muslim Brotherhood. * The
* Leading investor says China needs “at least 20 years” before its economy becomes innovative and creative. * Three-hundred electric DeLoreans to hit the market at $90,000 a pop. * Less than 15% of meals served in France follow the three-course model (as honored by Unesco). * No matter who wins the presidential
The rise and fall of Richard Nixon has been the subject of many histories, but perhaps none so insightful as Thomas Mallon's latest novel Watergate. A conversation about crime, ambition, booze, and Christopher Hitchens.
* Boomers' wealth drives the future of America, where the young are economic collateral damage. * Boomer anxiety about aging may explain the sudden popularity of Snow White. * AARP poll finds more grandparents are spending more on their grandchildren. * Socio-economic thoughts occur when a waiter nabs your money while you'
* China may ban officials from buying foreign cars, which are mostly Audis. * Stephon Marbury, two-time NBA All-Star, scores 41 points to give the Beijing Ducks China's national title. * Riot police and firefighters respond to Kentucky fans' excitement over beating Louisville. * Lessons from Japan's tsunami. * 1934
This spring, I visited Faraya, the Lebanese mountain a few hours from what was starting to look like a war in Syria. We tried parking beside a BMW, which was disgorging taut specimens in wintry pleasure gear, but another car beat us to the spot. After three wars in as
Joining a band at middle age can feel like a juvenile, shameful pursuit, until you consider all the gear you get to buy. A report on purchasing earplugs and playing live—but why are the crowds so small?—when you're 40.
* History of the military's "blood chit," designed to get missing soldiers home safe. * Round-up of things that should have been invented by now. * Federal government tries to officially measure Americans' "subjective well-being." * Boomers and recession leave America's youth in bad economic
Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, some people wanted to be loved, while others just want people to show a little more love to their fellow man. Woman’s account of
* U.S. kids with autism up 78% in past decade; leap credited to better/broader diagnosis. * Britain: The silliest country in the world, with regard to gas. * Winners revealed of the Washington Post's Annual Peeps Diorama contest. * Photos of decommissioning space shuttles. * RIP, Harry Crews. * Pictures of drivers
* Kofi Annan expects Syrian government to implement his peace plan immediately. * GOP leaders quietly working to kill amendments that reaffirm opposition to same-sex unions. * On the workaday heroism of the political operative. * Female Iranian ninjas sue Reuters for calling them killers. * Maryland Batman visits children in hospitals when he isn&
John Henry Browne “Attorney John Henry Browne,” read a headline on the cover of Pacific, a Seattle news magazine. “He shoots from the hip to defend the notorious.” [...] His father worked on the Manhattan Project and later for the Atomic Energy Commission. Mr. Browne played bass in the Crystal Palace
* Eye-tracking computers of the future to not only register what we read, but how we read it. * Facebook may ban add-ons using the word "dislike," but users can still "enemy" their "friends." * Nanoputians, organic chemicals in the shape of people, grow from NanoToddler to
Scott Hazard’s photo constructs turn images into fabrications of depth and imagination. The eye lingers not only on the image, but in the image, as though something is waiting deeper inside.
* Public debate on the Affordable Care Act closes, and now the justices retreat for several months to contemplate. * Headlines compete to riff on Jet Blue captain's meltdown. * Self-defense militias attempt to protect citizens, but relief officials say they are worsening Congo's crisis. * Thirty-four million people in
* The war not seen on TV: 2011's best pictures from official military photographers. * Nine headlines from Conservative Teen magazine. * Afghan parents disguise girls as boys to "complete" the family and send to work. * Pictures of teen girls paired with like adult male-to-female transsexuals. * Jeff Koons proposes
If the internet makes a sound (and it does), are you listening? Our correspondent uses software to transform the digital ephemera of web browsing—from network traffic to JavaScript, browser histories to JPGs—into music.
* One month later, a reminder that the Trayvon Martin case isn't about hoodies, extremists, or Rivera. * Poll finds 55 percent of Americans were unaware of last week's Etch a Sketch incident. * Santorum and Gingrich don't contest supporters who say the President is Muslim. * Support
* Chart shows gas price increases around the world; Italians fork out 18% more than they did 12 months ago. * Among three reasons to remain calm about gas prices: Europeans have it worse. * Bureaucracy stalls cholera-vaccination program in Haiti amidst ongoing epidemic. * British college student jailed for 56 days after tweeting
The other night in Beirut, notebook in hand, I slowed to watch an old man part his curtains. Inside a building scarred by bullet holes, he worried his hands, standing beside yellow walls and a water-stained desk. I fumbled in my bag, trying to find a pen. A dog barked.
* Obama caught by stray microphone telling Medvedev he'll have more flexibility post-election. * Romney calls Russia America's number-one geopolitical foe. * Japan shuts down another nuclear plant, leaving it with just one reactor. * Map and plans for Napoleon theme park to rival Disneyland Paris. * Man who spent two
* Round-up of lesser-known ways you may be affected by Obama's health care reform. * Interview with Czech economist Tomas Sedlacek. * Broke Irish man lives inside apartment built from 1.4 billion euros. * Earth becomes art through satellite imagery. * Today in #TheRooster: Different characters read Proust for different reasons. * Buy
* Supreme Court to begin discussion of Obama's health care law, the longest argument in more than 40 years. * David Sedaris visits French doctors. * Soldiers leaving for Afghanistan fear genital wounds most. * Six lies corrected about Jerusalem and Washington. * One of Jerusalem's biggest-ever ethnic clashes sees Israeli
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, jungle growth was obscuring New Orleans’s Lower Ninth Ward, while the white saviour industrial complex wanted a growth now, no matter the costs.
* Obama nominates Dartmouth president Jim Yong Kim to lead the World Bank. * Kagan: America must prepare for, not deny, its decline as dominator of Earth. * French Muslims wait for France to react to learning that a Muslim was behind the Jewish school shootings. * Relationship between stress and immunity not fully
* EU slaps travel ban and assets freeze on Assad's wife, though she can still visit London. * America's strategic oil reserve should be kept for a real emergency, not squandered for politics. * Former New York Times restaurant critic Bruni diagnosed with gout. * Brief accounting of the lives
As “Mad Men” enters its much-anticipated fifth season, the New York psychotherapist who consulted on the show’s development explains why its characters and storylines feel so ineffably real.
* President of the European Central Bank says worst of the eurozone crisis is over. * Q&A on habit, small wins, and why removing kebob stands prevents riots. * "Why I Want to Build Nine Freedom Towers in Tiananmen Square." * People holding guns tend to think other people are
The United States is much too big for the nightly news to cover thoroughly. Continuing our series of randomly telephoning people around the country—from Santa Claus, Ind., to Brilliant, Ala.—to find out what’s really going on.
* Department of Homeland Security tried mightily hard to not monitor Occupy protestors. * Trend: Job-seekers being asked to hand over Facebook logins during interviews. * Trend (?): Americans sick of eating leftovers. * Teju Cole on the white savior industrial complex. * "I've met Joseph Kony and Kony 2012 isn't
Ron Akana, longest-serving flight attendant Yes, Mr. Akana has worked as a flight attendant for 63 years, clocking some 20 million miles along the way, the equivalent of circling the globe about 800 times or flying roughly 40 times to the moon and back. Though no one tracks seniority across
* Bristol Palin, bashed by Bill Maher, would like an Obama call too. * Hari Kunzru on Damien Hirst's never-ending confidence. * Jenny Diski defends Sean Penn's critique of Britain's "ludicrous, colonialist" hanging on to the Malvinas. * Sound artist renders LA pollution as music. * Economist
* White House readies contingency plans as the Supremes review health care law. * Supreme Court to decide whether 14 is too young to be sentenced to life in prison. * Republican big-money outside groups vastly outperforming Democratic counterparts. * Police negotiate with suspected killer of seven people in southern France. * Portrait of Haiti&
For some Americans, the French way of life is best. Other people simply prefer "freedom fries." A two-week journey across the U.S.—passing through a handful of towns named Paris—to find out what Americans really think about France today. (Part three of four.)
* Pirated Russian version of Iron Lady depicts Thatcher as Hitler admirer. * Reagan doodles from 1981 G7 summit included among Thatcher papers. * Military STD posters of yore. * The short and sweet life of a space shuttle rocket booster. * Islamic authority deems Lady Gaga's concert forbidden, a "cultural attack.
Some people require the Heimlich Maneuver a bit more than the rest of us. A report on the four times—so far—that the author has relied on the assistance of others.
* Recent war games suggest an Israeli strike on Iran would draw the U.S. into war and have dire regional consequences. * Ted Koppel on recent events. * Up to 20% of Mauritanians are enslaved; not until 2007 did it pass a law that criminalized owning another person. * English grows by 8,
* Giant rock trucked to LA to prove the city's not a cultural backwater. * After 59 years and 11 presidential administrations, athlete Jim Thorpe's family still battles over where to bury his body. * Navy leaders to administer breathalyzer tests to sailors with no probable cause. * Child'
Photographs of people at war by the co-director of “Restrepo,” from an upcoming show at New York’s Yossi Milo Gallery.
* Heavy fighting erupts in Damascus; UN estimates more than 8,000 have died in the uprising so far. * Al Jazeera airs 25-minute, undercover iPhone documentary of the Syrian revolt. * Near the end, Osama bin Laden was obsessed with rebranding. * Gloria Steinem doesn't need to be replaced—"Gloria
My friends Bex and Todd had shown interest in going to the park, so we decided to meet up there in the afternoon. It was a lovely day fit for a walk in a park. A little too lovely, really. It was unseasonably warm, in fact, something that played into
* Interactive graphic shows the scale of the universe, from the Kuiper belt to humans to a helium nucleus. * A jumprope that shifts space and time on every jump. * Timeline of recent moral panics, from "pharm parties" to "buttchugs." * Prank robo-calls tell voters in Canada that their
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, we would rather not have known that Assad is sending YouTube videos to his wife’s iPad that mock the attack on Homs. And
* Iran's guns meet Zimbabwe's uranium—matchmaking in the crushing-sanctions world. * Depardieu to play Strauss-Kahn. * "Dawn of design" found in India, though skilled young people prefer to be artists "for money and glory." * Sixty-five percent of Indian households still use firewood, crop residue,
* Taliban suspends talks with the U.S.; Karzai calls for troops to leave now. * Over five years, Gail Collins has mentioned Romney's dog-on-roof goof in at least 50 New York Times columns. * Conservative analysis of Democrats' Maine problem. * Despite "transparency week," the White House pushes
Today marks the 75th anniversary of H.P. Lovecraft's death. From Stephen King's It to “The Call of Cthulhu,” a survey of the 20th century's greatest horror writer's afterlife of influence.
* Guardian reads cache of Assad's emails, finds him mocking reforms, exchanging YouTube videos with his wife. * Nobel winner Shirin Ebadi urges Arab Spring reformers to learn from women's suffering after Iran's revolution. * Three months shy of its 10th birthday, the Hague's International
For some Americans, the French way of life is best. Other people simply prefer "freedom fries." A two-week journey across the U.S.—passing through a handful of towns named Paris—to find out what Americans really think about France today. (Part two of four.)
* Ex-employees of Google, Goldman Sachs, and Yahoo air grievances. * Refining the Sundem/Tierney theory to predict the demise of celebrity marriages. * Today in #TheRooster: writer and actor Wil Wheaton on different ideas of travel. * Buy anything from Field Notes during the ToB and receive a red notebook free with coupon
Centennial, Wyo. ...I liked Centennial, with its funky main drag, its ancient police car parked near the highway to deter speeders and, when I first arrived, its five bars to serve a population of fewer than 100 people. Darwin, Calif. In Darwin, there is no food, gas or lodging—or
Selections from three series—one in the studio and two in the street—where the photographer waits until his subject finds a moment of perfect lighting.
* Santorum heads to Puerto Rico after sweeping Southern Republican ballots. * Amnesty identifies 31 forms of torture presently used in Syria, on a scale not seen in decades. * What it's like to be "blasted" by the Pentagon's pain ray. * We've come to think
* Ezra Klein on the history of presidential rhetoric, and whether all those efforts at persuasion work. * Field guide to the middle-class American family. * Using heart monitors and data analysis, scientists hope to solve the Cundiff Conundrum, or, choking under pressure. * Confessions of a small fish in the big pond of
Last year, our correspondent entered a March Madness pool with brackets filled out by his mother, who knows nothing about NCAA men's basketball. He won. Now it's time for lightning to strike twice.
* Militants in Afghanistan attack delegation visiting the site where a U.S. soldier killed 16 civilians. * Headline not seen: "Afghans have displayed tremendous restraint in the wake of repeated and abhorrent killings of civilians." * Brief history of African stereotypes. * Classic: How to write about Africa. * Britain backs call
* Iran War Clock at 10 minutes to midnight—48% chance that Israel or the U.S. will strike Iran in the next year. * Tracking art for Sothebys depends "on both a high tolerance for monotony and a willingness to flirt." * Dating site for married couples aims to reduce
The other day, a Beirut river ran red. Stunned officials said it might be blood. Or a deadly chemical. People could be hurt. The color certainly wasn’t part of some celebration. Everyone was stumped—even scientists at the university—and then, suddenly, the river ran clear. At the same
* Up to 47 men, women, children found tortured and killed in Homs. * In the past year at least 26 Tibetans, mostly young Buddhist monks, have set fire to themselves. * The West Wing now appreciated as totem by young people working in Washington. * The original Walter Kirn GQ essay on business
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, conventional wisdom was being shot on sight. From an evidence-based takedown of America’s “moral decline” to a bank of elevators becoming a two-room
* Chess players in Europe forbidden from showing too much cleavage or wearing skirts too short. * China's party newspaper publishes "Beautiful female journalists at two sessions" to highlight women's role. * Olivia Wang on Chinese artists' current (and historical) obsession with rocks. * Tutorial and commentary
Two Sundays ago I trekked out to the Bronx to visit the Edgar Allen Poe Cottage. (Although Poe was better known for bouncing between Richmond and Baltimore, he spent several years living in New York City.) As our subway car emerged into the Bronx daylight, I forced my travel companions,
* Europe grateful that Greece pushed through the largest restructuring of government debt in history. * Win or lose, Mr Sach's bid to run the World Bank "marks the end of the Live Aid era." * GOP to nominate Netanyahu as U.S. presidential candidate, says the Jerusalem Roast.
* Frustrated new lawyers sue second-tier law schools for consumer fraud and inflated job-placement rates. * Illustrated guide to criminal law. * Wolf-whistles and sexist comments now illegal in much of Europe and possibly soon the UK. * Japanese researchers invent speech-jamming gun. * Science behind acidic tampons. * "Alcohol a factor in woman'
Newt Gingrich As often as not, Mr. Gingrich grasps the extended hand and offers a noncommittal greeting, the same as saying “Nice to see you” at a cocktail party when you’re hedging because you’re not quite sure if you’re meeting someone for the first time. Hillary Clinton
* The GOP is deeply divided, and it may be to the Party’s advantage to have the actual primaries fail. * How to make a Santorum cake. * Experts confused about new iPad's lack of new name; evidence says names don't affect Apple's sales. * Brazil overtakes
* Obama rebukes Republicans who beat war drums to stoke voter frenzy. * Israel "very happy" about new negotiations, though "without a real military alternative," Iran unlikely to give up its nuclear program. * White House rules out unilateral U.S. military action in Syria * "Who needs Democrats
I did it. In doing so, I confirmed a few things for myself: * I’m still a Russophile. * I’m an old one at that. It’s both easier and harder to be an informed Russia-watcher in the era of socially networked regime-change. * What’s going on in Russia is
* Former ImClone CEO proposes we fight the burden of rising pharmaceutical prices by only paying when the drugs work. * Scotland's premature births drop by 10% following a country-wide ban on smoking in public places. * The conservative movement that has taken over the GOP was nursed on hatred of
For some Americans, the French way of life is best. Others simply prefer "freedom fries." A two-week journey across the U.S.—passing through a handful of towns named Paris—to find out what Americans really think about France today. (Parts one through three of four.)
Booth commentators Kevin Guilfoile and John Warner introduce the eighth annual Tournament of Books, sponsored by Field Notes.
* Syria's Assad said to congratulate Putin on his election by telegram. * Guide to stealing elections: Obey the rules, assuming you wrote them in advance. * Belarus's pseudo-president says it's better to be a dictator than gay; gay German foreign minister appreciates confirmation of dictatorship. * Chart:
* In the U.S., vast disparities found in different judges' sentencing for the same crime. * A chronological survey of the opening chords of Beethoven's Eroica. * Battle hymn of the accompanist: an homage to the unsung heroes of music. * Abraham Lincoln, technologist-in-chief, social anthropologist, proto-feminist. * When Alexander the
Hank Williams III blew the doors off country music last fall when he released three ambitious, experimental albums all on the same day. A conversation about tradition, hardcore, and punishment.
* The only unexpected aspect of Putin's Sunday victory was the tear in his eye. * America's moral "decline" includes decreased crime, divorce, teenage pregnancy rates. * Question dividing the GOP: Is the end of defeating radical Islam worth the means of big government nation-building? * Remnick: Netanyahu
Before the memorial for the fallen journalist, I stumbled down the hill toward the church, hungover and hungry. Consider the falafel sandwich. At under $2, it was my obvious move. But I was sick and sad, and the kids behind the stove looked like 12-year-olds who should have been in
* The Port Huron Statement reads as relevant today as it did 50 years ago. * After thousands of years of looking down on feelings, they may be smarter than the conscious mind. * History shows it's still too early to count on Obama's momentum and count out a
Elegance found inside an Arizona parking lot of retired B-52 bombers, where function and form can be equally disturbing.
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. Signs of ongoing austerity were everywhere this week. Meanwhile we were starting to make sense of the Great Recession and trying to avoid the next one.
* Putin invokes Lermontov, Molotov, and Martin Luther King—but Russia is harder to inspire these days. * Don't miss today's Letter From Moscow interviewing protesters, commentators, and Kremlin-watchers about this weekend's election. * Bullfighter returns five months after severe goring left him unable to chew. * During
The lot of a football fan is a rough one. Fans of professional hockey and basketball have 82 games in the regular season to look forward to. A baseball junkie gets to gorge himself on 162. Tennis lovers have four major tournaments and a slew of minor ones. But the
This winter, a burgeoning protest movement laid its cornerstone in a former swamp and up grew hope. Our correspondent talks to protesters, editors, commentators, and Kremlin-watchers in anticipation of this weekend's election and what comes next.
* Beth Israel agrees to pay $13 million for fraudulently inflating fees for Medicare patients. * With the big GOP money now secure, Romney launches Obama-style grassroots fundraising. * In defense of federal bureaucrats. * By pouncing on Obama's Koran apology, Republican hopefuls reveal archaic, Cold War mentality. * Children of 1976 imagine
* More than a dozen killed by devastating storms in the Midwest, and more storms are expected. * Imagining the UK if it faced austerity cuts on the scale currently facing Greece. * British and German leaders vocally back Sarkozy to their detriment should Hollande win. * Nature of romantic love considered philosophically, via
* In the first talks with the U.S. in three years, North Korea agrees to halt production of nuclear weapons. * Even if Pyongyang does live up to the deal, they will almost certainly start the program back up in a few years. * Iran conjures the Great Satan to lure voters
* U.S. and France draft resolution for humanitarian access to Syria. * Conflicting stories show Obama and Bibi battling behind the scenes over Iran. * Profiles of the women behind the Arab world's dictators. * Queen seeks baby born at Knebworth show, Aug. 9, 1986—the reincarnation of Freddie Mercury? * El
Alina Fernandez Both [Fidel] Castro and Fernandez’ mother, a socialite, were married to other people when they fell in love through their exchange of letters while Castro was in jail, according to Fernandez. Castro’s visits, she said, made for a “bizarre atmosphere” that made her mother “joyful” and her
* U.S. military acknowledges sending unidentified 9/11 victims' remains to landfill. * With a plan to expand Bush's massive health efforts, Santorum is the best hope for global health. * Doctor data mines patient in the ultimate search for the "quantified self." * The adoption of memory-enhancing
Our man in Boston talks to author and artist Ben Katchor about the history of picture-stories—from the days when literature included drawings to our current world of (sadly) more purified genres.
* Obama administration more prone than any in history to silence and prosecute federal workers. * Chart: Where not to be a toddler. * DC-area plastic surgeon developing procedures for people concerned about their appearance during video calls. * Pictures of the nearly forgotten mailbox. * For those seeking to learn a second language after
* Stratfor is hardly the super-secret intelligence org WikiLeaks wants us to believe. * Cuyahoga County late-night news station acts out racketeering trial with puppets. * Explained: The idea of a climate change hoax is ridiculous. * Q&A with the creator of LBJ's "Daisy" ad. * TSG digs into
Big-budget films tell us earthquakes are bad, volcanic eruptions can be catastrophic, and meteorite strikes—barring the presence of Bruce Willis—may kill us all. Seeking expert advice on how scared we should be.
* "Meh," once an obscure Yiddish word, now synonymous with (Meh) Romney. * The Kennedys are back, with a 31-year-old former prosecutor who wears "voluminous Kennedy hair." * Researchers believe Maryland girl who doesn't age may have clues to universal longevity. * Let's remember that many
I leave the house with a bag of knives. My daughter, Loretta, holds my wife’s hand, and the three of us wait to cross a busy street. There’s something unpleasant ahead. “That's poop!” Loretta squeals. “On the sidewalk!” I tell her someone will clean it up.
* Rove: To beat Obama, Republicans must adopt a platform of American exceptionalism. * The world's most miserable people are those in the wealthiest nations. * Pathologist turns microscope onto produce and swears off stringy fruits. * We may have evolved to sleep in chunks, not straight through the night. * Statistician Patrick
Imagine the people you see on your morning commute—sleepy, bored, stoic. Now picture them jammed together in the bed of a truck, speeding down the highway to work. Photographs of Mexico’s hidden (literally) class of workers.
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important.This week some nation states seemed too big to succeed, while Hollywood stars were using growth hormones to get even bigger. Inequality isn’t a strong
* Violent protests precede Senegal's elections—unusual for a country with free voting since the late 19th century. * U.S. labor-force participation rate of foreign-born in 2010: 68%; native-born rate: 64%. * 130,000 displaced by fighting in Mali since mid-January. * Somalia gives up on central state, shifts to system
* UN report on Syrian human rights situation depicts horrifying atrocities. * Since 2000, six police officers have been killed by members of the "sovereign citizen" movement, who argue they are not subject to laws. * Japan questions its safety net following the starvation death of a couple in their 60s
* Afghan Koran protests spread and rage; Taliban urges attacks. * China, Russia, Iran—though not Hamas—all reaffirm support for Syria. * Civil rights activist defends The Help as this year's "most outstanding and socially relevant motion picture." * Website connects flying families in need with registered babysitters on
Marcel Proust By 1919, Proust rarely left his soundproofed Paris apartment, complete with a bedroom encased in walls of cork to keep out noise. He worked in a sunless writing studio with the window shut as protection against the asthma that had plagued him since the age of 9. The
* Former envoy opines on the first post-Jong-il meeting. * Hong Kongers outraged over mainlanders arriving to birth children, who then get 12 years of school, free visas. * "Dude," the quintessential American slang term, may have been brought to the U.S. by immigrants. * Once thought headed to extinction, the
* Mugabe vows to cling to power, says he has died and been resurrected more times than Jesus Christ. * "BBC Transcript to Be Used in Wake of Nuclear Attack." * "Jerusalem Syndrome," or why some people go crazy in Jerusalem. * "Paris syndrome" mainly affects Japanese who
* FDA addresses cancer drug shortages: temporarily allows import, approves new supplier. * Journalist Marie Colvin and French photographer Rémi Ochlik killed during rocket attack in Syria. * On paper, Santorum is a GOP dream, and a draw for many swing voters, but look closer and he doesn't add up. * Ignoring
An unfinished autobiography and a 1980s biopic turned Frances Farmer, one of the great golden-era stars, into a lobotomized zombie. The main trouble: Frances Farmer wasn’t lobotomized. An investigation to set one of Hollywood’s most convoluted stories straight.
The reporter is wearing an eye patch. “And who do you work for?” she says, clearing her throat. “I’m retired,” I say. A grizzled tribe of Middle East correspondents has gathered at the Mayflower Hotel’s wood-paneled bar in Beirut. Wine is poured, mugs of beers are guzzled, and
* Eurozone agrees on second bailout for Greece; worriers wonder if default will come anyway. * Friday was the last time that francs could be exchanged for Euros. * Americans report record-high feelings for Canada, Australia, Germany, Japan, and India. * Until recently, elections—"though blatantly unfree and unfair"—were at the
* By framing the Tea Party as yokels and ignoring context, British coverage of U.S. politics feeds anti-Americanism. * Three scenes inspired by the Gingrich campaign. * For 14 years, an investigator has been tracking down NASA's 184 missing moon rocks. * New bus ad in London will be able to
Blazing, husky paintings that deal with class in America—where everyone has an equal opportunity to be a mess.
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week fighting raged and little heed was paid to Valentine’s Day. The more everyone fought, the less sense they made, and damn if we
* Pulitzer-winning article about the Iraq War from Anthony Shadid, who died yesterday in Syria. * Foreclosure quilts: Our current economy mapped using remnants and found cloth. * Former Liberian first lady introduces bill to kill homosexuals. * Trackers and rangers stalk each other in a war over the worth-more-than-cocaine rhino horn. * Six Democrats
* The euro crisis has undermined Europe...transforming it from a reliable global problem-solver to a problem itself. * The EU is regulating "every financial actor, financial market, financial activity and product," line by line. * Starting with Sputnik in 1957, Americans have suffered periodic bouts of competitiveness anxiety. * White House
* Frantic gestures by top Iranian officials arrive at tense time, and are read by some as provocations. * Fake news of Putin's arrest goes viral. * Italy's financial reforms can be praised, but political reform must follow. * Sarkozy joins Twitter. * Headlines editors shouldn't use to discuss
* Pew finds electronic registration would trim two million deceased voters from U.S. rolls. * Groups hope to recycle the 25 million pounds of beads thrown at Mardi Gras every year. * Trustees may revive a 40-year-old "urban laboratory" in the Arizona desert as a retirement resort. * With vast natural
Some decisions are best made heedlessly, based on the chance for an epic story—and some people think like that all the time. A report on what it’s like to slide down a volcano on a piece of sheet metal at 55 mph.
* Governments begin to use lotteries to encourage good citizenship. * Travel agents routinely beat online sites for finding cheaper fares; if the agent has a horrible website, they're probably legit. * Long investigation into how iPhone apps use information stored in your address book. * Critique of journalism, PR, and attack
One of the things I love about America is how willing the public is to accept someone stepping back into the spotlight (most of the time) (athletes especially). Well, you be the judge.
* Roche issues an alert that a fake version of its cancer drug, without its active ingredient, is circulating in the U.S. * Document leak reveals a libertarian thinktank's strategy to discredit climate-change science. * The Colorado River rarely reaches the sea; now U.S. and Mexican officials are searching
* Homs shelled for the 10th day; Assad emboldened by Russia's UN tactics and arms supply. * Book alleges CIA used Kashmir earthquake to cover smuggling agents into Pakistan. * New James Joyce children's book published, but his foundation cries foul. * Graduate student mounts defense of secret habit: audiobooks.
* Monsanto found guilty in French court of poisoning a farmer with weedkiller. * Five places where Valentine's Day is forbidden. * We're all out of money, but not love: proposing National Love Day, the anti-Valentine's. * Until the 1930s, Taiwanese aborigines often would bestow their loved ones
Sometimes a book appears in your life and starts to pester you. The characters act like your friends. Events occur in the plot that reappear inside your home. It’s enough to drive a man to wonder which world is more real, until danger appears.
* In 12,000 words, James Fallows reviews Obama's first term. * Fantastic Economist summary of the Syrian situation. * State Department photographs show al-Assad's artillery pointed toward major protest centers. * The World Press Photo of the Year for 2011 shouldn't be used to illustrate news without
This week we’re debuting a new microfeature series, “Husband, Father, Writer, War,” in which Nathan Deuel recounts what it’s like to be an American citizen, young father, and supportive husband while he and his family settle down in Lebanon.
* Those Americans who benefit most from the government safety net are also some of its most ardent critics. * UK immigration officials prevent 70 sham marriages in one month by surveilling a busy registration office. * Study finds New York hospitals aggressively collect on those who cannot pay, despite receiving charity funds
In Laura Plageman’s “Response” photographs, nature pictures are ripped, folded, and turned into sculptures, then re-photographed to become unusual new landscapes.
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, despite the apathy that greets the idea that meaningful change is possible, protestors continued to make their voices heard. And beyond the streets we
* Optimism in Tripoli over oil reserves, but the government is paralyzed, the army is just another militia. * Further violence in Athens as bailout deal goes to Greek Parliament. * Inventor of 5-Hour Energy spent his twenties as a monk trying to still his mind. * Paul Krugman vs. other economists—"saltwater&
When I was in the fifth grade my class took a trip to a historical farm museum in Tifton, Ga., called Agrirama, a fully functioning re-creation of a Reconstruction-era sugar cane farm. There were historical re-enactors who split the class on gender lines, boys going to work in the barn
* With the foreclosure settlement behind them, banks can look forward to more lawsuits and criminal charges. * [China] would much rather see future consumption...via lower household savings than through splurges on credit cards. * For those who know, it's not America vs. China in a battle for supremacy, it&
* Panetta says not even our biggest "bunker buster" could reach underground Iranian nuclear installations. * Brazil demands that Twitter ban users who warn of police speed traps and roadblocks. * Coffee shops invade India, and young people enjoy them mostly for hanging out. * Interview with Berlusconi as he prowls around
Situationist invades Hoxton... Street poems arouse Londoners... Public discourse colored by disfigured Futura... Robert Montgomery’s street poems have something to say to you.
* The key question is not whether Vladimir Putin—and Putinism—will survive. They will not. * China reacts to jumping inflation by announcing it will raise the minimum wage 13% each year until 2015. * China's continuing PR nightmare. * When young Chinese want to learn American slang, they turn to
* Syrian forces said to be attacking civilian areas in Homs; Putin proposes advice, angering European diplomats. * Italy imposes emergency measures to conserve gas supplies during Europe's big freeze. * 100,000 Muscovites turned out in sub-zero weather to protest Putin. * List of jobs held in a Medieval city. * Wagner&
* Electrodes on the brain may be the shortcut to the 10,000-hour talent rule. * Willpower is the root of all happiness; a new book explains how to exercise yours to get more. * Diners travel to a Hudson Valley monastery to experience mindful eating, where each bite can last 20 minutes.
More than two decades later, a return visit to Tiananmen Square finds it scrubbed clean—just as it was immediately following the Incident. Except now there is thick smog, and ghosts. In contemporary Beijing, the past is like Kentucky Fried Chicken: unavoidable.
* Obama returns $200,000 linked to the family of a fugitive casino magnate. * Nice things about Attila the Hun. * Notes on whether Italy can change its ways, or remain "more or less equally honored and dishonored." * Despite the lock-out, the NBA is doing very well, with viewership going
* After teacher arrests, LA school performs security theater for parents, temporarily replacing its entire staff. * When did the middle finger become offensive? * In the U.S., an invented country freed from its past, a tough match lays ahead for soccer vs. football. * Researchers force monkeys and humans to watch Clint
The United States is an enormous country, much too big for the nightly news. We asked one of our editors to randomly call people in towns around America and find out what's really going on.
* New report on Twitter use in Africa reduced to very few characters. * Breakdown of bride pricing in southern Nigeria. * Arnold Bread offers 40 varieties, "and that is just counting the sliced breads, not the thins or buns." * Iran not amused by Samsung ad showing Israel accidentally blowing up
* Sloan-Kettering president accused of pilfering groundbreaking cancer research, using it to launch a biotech firm. * Nobel officials face inquiry into whether they've adhered to Alfred Nobel's ideals—case in point, Obama. * The genome of Wall St. traders. * People who speak languages that blur "today"
Selections from Daniel Rosenberg and Anthony Grafton’s captivating history of timelines, now in paperback—from time circles to time dragons, to a history of civilization drawn on a single piece of paper.
This is an unpaid internship. Geographic location is not important, but please have a sturdy internet connection. To apply, email a cover letter, including any résumé-like points, clips/experience as well as links to your Twitter, Tumblr, and/or blog to talk@themorningnews.org by Feb. 17, 2012.
* Hundreds killed in Syrian offensive, UN vote later today. * Largest anti-Putin protests yet in Moscow today despite temperatures of -4. * Talking to parents of Russian neo-Nazis * Somalia's famine is over, but it's still enduring its worst crisis in decades. * Keystone oil will be likely transported by
* Planned Parenthood receives nearly $700K in donations after losing Komen funding. * Today Komen announced it will continue funding Planned Parenthood. * Girl Scout cookies politicized after members boycott the organization for accepting a transgendered scout. * Stop saying our wars are over, Mr. President. They’re not. * Mitt Romney falls into the
Like a lot of people this Sunday, I’ll be choosing sides in a contest whose outcome is going to be disappointing. The team I’m rooting for (the 2007 Green Bay Packers) can’t win. This is a replay of one of my least favorite Super Bowls in recent
* Protesters fight with security forces for a second day in Cairo over soccer deaths and slow reforms. * Chart: Facebook is currently bigger than the U.S., smaller than India. * Many economists believe the worst is yet to come; only fringe predictors say corporations will begin spending again soon. * First UK
* Egypt soccer tragedy claims 73 lives; security forces blamed after they disappeared when attacks began. * We're a little late to this, but still: Julian Assange to host show on Kremlin TV. * Stem-cell researchers transform skin cells into brain cells. * Pros and cons of Moon Base Gingrich—residents will
* Headlines say Obama is on the rebound, but maybe someone should tell swing voters in up-for-grabs states. * Images of the "Great Successor," Kim Jong Un, looking at things. * Billions and millions expected for employees and friends of Facebook. * Q&A on why the nation's largest
* Pakistan's foreign minister denies links to the Taliban as reported in a leaked secret Nato report. * Elections for the head of the African Union end in stalemate. * Nature of memory shows that taking notes is a good idea, and we never truly forget an old phone number. * Itemized
Today is the final installment in our series with Explodingdog. Over two months, Sam published a comic story here each week on TMN based on your suggestions. Today’s is a special double feature.
* Romney's win in Florida cost him and his Super PAC $19.94 per vote. * I got 99 problems but a non-connected independent-expenditure only committee ain't one. * How far can you go from Trafalgar Square without crossing a road or going over the same place twice: almost
* Diplomats battle (against Russia) to demand Assad's resignation. * Now's the time to reread Vogue's fluff profile of Assad's wife and family. * Eurozone unemployment ends 2011 at 10.4%, up 751,000 from 2010. * Hungary growing weary of ties to the EU and
You wanted it. You were willing to give up BBC dramas for it. Now it’s time to readjust to the working life. Welcome back.
* Hong Kongers bristle against mainland tourists. * Through meticulous infiltration...members have carried out shocking acts of cultural preservation and repair. * Franzen: Serious readers will always prefer print. * Forensics lab finds it takes Texas vultures 37 days to find a body but only five hours to "skeletonize" it. * Introduction
* Politics and the recession have taken their best shots, but SETI won't die due to enthusiasts and the private sector. * The lab that won't quit: still making medical history in facilities meant to be torn down in 1966. * Discovered: 1972 documentary of Future Shock, narrated by
Just because no one uses payphones doesn’t mean the phone booth needs to go the way of the dodo. One man’s plea for preserving society’s greatest unused invention.
* Major Syrian offensive against rebels sees fighting hit 10-month peak. * Iraq says unauthorized U.S. drone patrols are an affront to its sovereignty. * Italy says Costa Concordia recovery, cleanup could take 10 months. * Photos from the Titanic aftermath and resulting media storm, once the survivors reached land. * After 80 years
* There have been 434 Iraqis killed in attacks since U.S. military withdrew last month. * Arab League suspends Syria mission due to upswing in violence. * Taliban softening extreme positions, unclear if they'd be responsible if returned to power. * On American declinism Obama "is personally enamored with."
I don’t mean to sound bitter, but I am. Not just because the Packers aren’t going back to the Super Bowl. Not just because I called both Conference Championships wrong last week. No, my bitterness is more complex, and of longer standing. For as we look past the
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. While “interesting” is diluted and obscured to the point of redundancy, “epic” continues to diminish in stature. Meanwhile, “unexpected” lurks in quiet inescapability. Amid all the
* Egypt blocks American pro-democracy workers from leaving. * Alan Gross, a 62-year-old U.S. citizen, has been imprisoned in Cuba since December 2009. * it is now a matter of fundamental faith among conservatives that the GOP went astray during the Bush years by betraying its conservative principles. * Former colleagues say Ron
* Wind and solar firms fear reduction in subsidies at the moment they're almost competitive. * No matter what Gingrich says, space sex is probably not a good idea. * Discovery in old textbook suggests da Vinci may not have been the originator of the Vitruvian man. * De Botton wants huge
* South Sudan shuts down wells, accuses Sudan of extortion, stealing its oil. * A rural school district in Texas turns off its Friday night lights until budgets and grades improve. * Lessons from the paperback revolution. * An extensive look back at Obama's first three years in office. * The weirdest thing
History is an imperfect science—the truth often weaves within nuance and mystery. For those playing the role of historian, the trick is knowing what you’re looking for.
* Egypt's bloggers consider their year of revolution. * Iran begins arrests and intimidation of bloggers, journalists, prior to parliamentary elections in March. * U.S. military's use of unmanned drones proving costly and unreliable. * Nanotechnology is a $225 billion market, but scientists voice health concerns. * New study suggests
* Hostages in Somalia not rescued by same Navy SEAL team that killed bin Laden, as reported earlier. * Nonprofit intends to tempt children into reading via banned books. * Slaughterhouse in Texas dumps blood into nearby creek; amateur pilot snaps a pic. * "Nasal packing with strips of cured pork" [is]
* There are now more iPhones being sold than babies being born. * Paterno's death will weaken the case against two former Penn State officials who failed to report Sandusky. * Maria Popova makes the case for an information diet, becoming "selective about the information we consume." * Attending a
Today is the seventh installment in our series with Explodingdog. Sam is publishing a comic story here each week on TMN based on your suggestions. Leave your ideas for next week’s installment in the comments.
* France criminalizes the denial of officially recognized genocides, angering Turks, straining foreign relations. * With 163 boys born for every 100 girls in parts of China, gendercide isn't slowing. * Scientists estimate a 98% chance of an magnitude 7 quake in Tokyo in the next 30 years. * What Gingrich '
A grocery visit or dinner out in Israel can sometimes leave your stomach churning, but not for the reasons you might think.
* Chicago Sun-Times, doubting its relevance, drops political endorsements. * What the left gets right, according to conservatives. * Though the Christian Right was cold-shouldered in 2008, and hasn't fared well in 2012, don't be too quick to dismiss its influence. * The moral laziness of fine print. * Yes, that
* Syria rejects new Arab League plan; Saudis withdraw, threatening the future of the League. * NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo falls for DR Congo gold scam that hands million to wanted warlord. * Frequency of laughter at Fed meetings is on the rise. * These days smuggling HDTVs and Dutch flowers to Iran on
In Thomas Woodruff’s paintings, Hippocrates’s Four Humors afflict beasties, batterflies, and tigers on tender, spooky landscapes.
* EU to impose a phased oil embargo on Iran, 18% of the country's oil exports. * Iraq is largely safer than a decade ago, but lacks stability, decent economic management. * Muslim Brotherhood takes 47% of the vote in Egypt's lower-house elections, will begin writing constitution. * Navy is
* How China's boom caused the financial crisis. * Most Americans pay less in taxes than they think they do—and not enough to cover the programs they want. * A toddler in Jakarta dies from bird flu, the second death from H5N1 this year. * Revised definition of autism in the
It could have been the ghost of Brett Favre. Or Aaron Rodgers’s two-week vacation. Maybe those State Farm “discount double-check” commercials produce bad karma in addition to vague irritation. Or maybe this girl is right, and the Packers would have won if only her friend hadn’t talked her
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, despite all that Wikipedia has achieved, quantity and brute force wasn’t fairing well, with soft power and quality winning the long war. China
* Unsafe abortions are on the rise globally. * State capitalism is on the rise, but is probably bad for business. * A libertarian argument for (the right kind of) government regulation. * Who supports SOPA and PIPA in Congress, and who doesn't. * China reacts to SOPA. * The long road to bring
* Newt says if elected, he'd ignore the Supreme Court and roll back combatant rights, Roe v. Wade. * A look at Romeny's multimillion-dollar IRA. * Stephen Colbert could spoil South Carolina for Ron Paul. * Achievement-oriented teenage girls use similar strategies for tackling homework, fellatio. * Male authors are somewhat
* Obama nixes Keystone XL pipeline, but the tar-sand oil will still flow. * South Koreans go to Cambodia to hang out at North Korean's capitalist experiment: a global restaurant chain. * Costa Concordia and the cult of the ship captain. * The race to the bottom of the Mariana trench pits
World War II had veteran parades. Vietnam War vets were often ignored, if not shunned. For the current generation of war-weary Americans, solace comes on YouTube.
* Today: ██████████████. * North Korea is doomed to fail under his brother, says exiled, "normal, intelligent human being" Kim Jong Nam. * As Tibet immolations continue, the causes become clearer. * Timekeepers ponder fate of leap second, whose destruction could leave Earth and time "several minutes apart." * A public-transit R&
* Scott Walker recall election filed with more than twice the amount of necessary signatures. * Mitt Romney: The whitest white man to run for president in recent memory. * Romney would be the first president "who belongs to a church that the U.S. government actually tried to crush." * John
* Illustrated explanation of how political candidates can boost their appeal by wearing Andrew Jackson's hair. * Silent discos spread in noise-averse Paris, where partiers wear synchronized headphones. * On the appeal of nightingale droppings as favored product for improving girls' skin in Japan. * Statistics on scientific misconduct in Chinese
* In the 11th winter of the Afghan war, less use of overpowering violence seen in soft air power. * Striking photos of soldiers before, during, and after their deployment to Afghanistan. * Searching for sustainable growth and facing dampened export demand, China's economy hits a lull. * China loves soccer, but
Today is the sixth installment in our series with Explodingdog. Sam is publishing a comic story here each week on TMN based on your suggestions.
Our man in Boston sits down for the sixth time with Russell Banks to discuss his latest novel, the movie business, Mitt Romney, the emigration of investigative journalists, and why it's wise to wait until your 70's before writing about obsessive love.
* Burma releases 651 high-profile political prisoners, U.S. rewards and praises the reforms. * Eight-year-old girl from isolated tribe burnt alive by Amazon loggers as warning to natives. * The case against assassinating Iranian nuclear scientists: It increases the chance of a nuclear Iran. * How food aid undermines Haitian recovery, helped American
* Spate of self-immolations reported in Tunisia; at least 107 people set themselves ablaze in the first half of 2011. * Putin is too busy to debate; he is not too busy to pet leopards, curl, or sing jazz for Kevin Costner. * Pop business article says flux is the future; consumers becoming
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, when we weren’t trying to find ourselves, we were just getting lost; psychologists were having a field day. The words of Kevin Fanning
* Advice to the U.S. as it works to increase the value of China's currency: Be careful what you wish for. * After his iPhone halted the New York Philharmonic this week, "Patron X" comes forward for an interview, apologizes. * In 1955, an all-black youth baseball team
Football fans learned some important lessons this weekend; first among them: Ben Roethlisberger cannot pull off a fedora. His post-game presser outfit—whether an homage to Swingers or an attempt to bring (consensual) sexy back—only added insult to an already deeply injured Steeler Nation. Of perhaps slightly greater significance,
* Following protest where ultra-Orthodox Jews wore yellow stars, Israel to ban Third Reich symbols and "Nazi." * Danish school to Nordic-ize Masai diet of blood, blood-porridge, milk, and beer. * Signs of the ultimate sale in Osaka. * Labor and ingredient costs put Hostess cupcakes in the red. * Headlines from this
* For the first time since 1965, last year homicide was not one of the nation's top 15 causes of death. * A new survey shows income inequality—more than racial friction—is now the greatest source of tension in the U.S. * Israel believed to be behind the covert
* "Each day, hundreds of schoolchildren appear before courts in Texas," and other repercussions of having police in schools. * Fukuyama on Europeans dealing with immigration. * New volcanic island appears in the Red Sea almost overnight and continues growing. * Bauhaus school "forged new boundaries in the art and design
It is time to announce the contestants, judges, and brackets for the original, one-and-only, full-combat, oddly-predictive-of-the-Pulitzer-Prize, eighth annual TMN Tournament of Books, coming March 2012, presented by Field Notes.
* Beyond closing Gitmo, it's time to return Guantánamo to Cuba, where imperialism has reigned since 1901. * Gitmo's most controversial prisoners. * Rampant nuclear proliferation and trigger-happy hotspots push the Doomsday Clock ahead another minute. * The design evolution of Google Maps. * The current rush to build skyscrapers should
* Violence escalates in Syria; Al-Assad blames foreign powers, Arab critics, and "60 televisions stations." * Wonkette on our new "Consumer Chief." * Switzerland's Libyan nightmare is over; Hannibal Gadhafi, terrorizer of hotels, is believed to be in Algeria. * Krugman reconsiders Japan—responding to our own crisis,
The most irritating thing cyclists do? Wear their helmets indoors, of course.
* Western sanctions are ravaging Iran's currency and economy, though the next step—limiting oil exports—may backfire. * Ahmadinejad's Latin American excursion appears fruitless—few allies remain, Chávez's usefulness has waned. * Ahead of the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics, Rio tries to wrangle control
On a quest to find the person who speaks the most languages on Earth, our correspondent encountered Emil Krebs, a German diplomat who knew, by some accounts, 65 of them—and happily swore in dozens.
* Round-up of Michele Bachmann's foreign-policy greatest hits. * Trillin has Romney introducing himself to foreign leaders. * Tiny explanations of politics to watch in Zimbabwe, Angola, Madagascar, South Africa. * Haitians struggle to reach Brazil; Brazil struggles to accomodate Haitians. * Italy's high-end accordion industry thrives despite 90% plunge since
Today is the fifth installment in our series with Explodingdog. Sam is publishing a comic story here each week on TMN based on your suggestions. Leave your ideas for next week’s installment in the comments.
In Jeroen Hofman’s new monograph Playground, the training facilities for Holland’s soldiers, firefighters, rescue workers, and police officers are photographed from a cherry-picker, turning dangerous scenarios into LEGO sets.
* A haunting account of one man's seven-year Gitmo imprisonment. * For those waiting anxiously for immigration reform—with no resolution in sight—Obama's proposal offers new hope. * Given months to live in 1963, Stephen Hawking has continued to survive against all medical odds. * Psychologists can't
* Iranian fisherman held hostage and asked by Somalians to go pirate, saved by U.S. Navy. * Iran responds twice: It's a humanitarian gesture, then a Hollywood dramatization. * U.S. military cuts could harm invention, innovation, and long-term economic growth. * Teen killed by drone may not have been a
* Britain bashes London's financial might and excess; financiers would prefer an attitude like California's toward Silicon Valley. * Poster: Visual history of financial crises. * January is a bad month for fast-food restaurants, so deals abound, including KFC's new $11 "Weekend Bucket," with 10
{image-1} Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. 2012 is commencing with the reminder that no matter what goes down this year, hope can be strongest in dark places. Jupiter’s heart is dissolving:
* The Supreme Court should defend the fundamental right of Americans to have a democracy that is for, of, and by them—not foreigners. * Rick Santorum says the West Bank belongs to Israel, which not even Israel itself would claim. * Santorum embodies how politicians become wealthy out of office—getting cash
Today we’re introducing a new column, “End Zone,” in which Miranda Popkey examines the current season and her love of football. Don’t miss her picks for this weekend’s games.
* British Heart Foundation teaches CPR to the masses by encouraging disco-beat chest compressions. * In Israel, anyone who registers as an organ donor is eligible immediately for high priority to obtain an organ. * Chart: Libya's economy will be the fastest-growing in 2012, Sudan's the fastest-shrinking. * Craze in
The pictures in Susan Lipper’s series may come from West Virginia, but they could be found off dozens of American byways.
* White House to reduce the Army and Marine Corps by 10-15% over 10 years; future focus to be on Asia-Pacific. * Illiterate voters make elections difficult in Egypt, but the military's power is a much bigger hurdle, say analysts. * To save the Republican party, the GOP's factions
* Musician Youssou N'Dour announces Senegal presidential bid. * According to Reuters, Syria has killed 132 people since the Arab League's monitors arrived last week. * Investment banks are run by psychopaths who single-mindedly pursue self-enrichment. * Top economists of 2011 ranked by Google search interest—Krugman, Singh, Draghi. * Proof
When you’re 16 and searching, Jack Kerouac’s urge to hit the road can seem inspired, or at least inspiring. Later, you wonder if his literature was actually early-onset LiveJournal. Later still, On the Road deserves one more look.
* After slim win in Iowa, Romney looks ahead to New Hampshire with great expectations. * Analysis of Putinism—Putin has "neither the capacity nor the ambition to rebuild a Soviet-style hierarchy." * Flashpoints for 2012, and why certain regions can expect conflict. * Guidelines for would-be dictators. * Fencer, fight choreographer, Darth
* "Unmistakable paradoxes" frame Iowa's Republican primary, mostly to do with mediocre candidates. * On "fan death"—widely held belief that a fan left running overnight in a closed room can cause death. * Jupiter's heart is dissolving. * Terrific summary of a few things we
Today is the fourth installment in our series with Explodingdog. Sam is publishing a comic story here each week on TMN based on your suggestions. Leave your ideas for next week’s installment in the comments.
* Ron Paul believes his chances in Iowa are good, but he doesn't see himself in the Oval Office. * See also: Art gallery floor modified to accomodate very small ship. * Overview of Moscow's new protesters: professionals who want change, not cash. * Lucid, short summary of Christmas violence
As 2012 hatches, many face the new year with trepidation and excitement. Whose political fortunes will shine brightest? Were the Mayans right? Here are startlingly accurate predictions for the year ahead.
As much as 2011 was filled with noteworthy events, it was also littered with meaninglessly overhyped blips that, try as we might, we shouldn't forget. We asked our group of writers and thinkers: What was the least important event of 2011?
We gathered writers and thinkers around the world and asked them to sift through the past year of revolutions, deaths, discoveries, and breakthroughs to answer: What was the most important event of 2011?
I got in touch with a couple of friends, Meghan (who accompanied me to Historic Richmond Town) and Christine, a Roadside Attractions newbie. I told them about my plans to visit the house and experience the “Enchanted Evening” with me. I may have even made a joke or two about
Every Friday, starting today: a look back at the week’s headlines, centered on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. Sure, another dictator passed, but this week we found ourselves considering income inequality, the poor, and the wealthy. U.S. rated the world’s most charitable country
* The GI Rights Hotline provides free information services to military members confronting confusing policy matters. * Season of Sharing provides one-time grants to Bay Area residents in critical need. * Doctors Without Borders—apolitical, international health organization for a world that still has cholera outbreaks. * The Innocence Project—dedicated to exonerating wrongly
* Scientists develop new approach to achieving coldest temperature ever recorded: removing hottest atoms from "optical lattices." * Mexico City to close one of the world's biggest dumps; city has halved its garbage through recycling and composting. * Behind-the-scenes photos of police patrolling New York in the 1970s. * Life
Don’t worry this Christmas if your grandfather shoots up the neighborhood—it’s all in keeping with 200 years of tradition that have been whitewashed by consumerism. How wild Christmas—night of carousing, gambling, and booze—became family-friendly.
* Fourteen coordinated blasts kill at least 63 during Baghdad rush hour, injure around 185. * Death toll from last week's massive flash flooding in two southern Philippine cities tops 1,000. * Tropical Storm Washi in pictures. * China says Christian Bale should be embarrassed; critics say director Zhang continues to
* Mexican cartels and Colombian cocaine suppliers drawn to Costa Rica's openness to outsiders. * Chart finds poverty continuing to fall in Latin America. * Wendy’s to overtake Burger King as America's second-largest fast-food chain in sales—first shuffle in the top trio since 1969. * A study in
* Mass mourning in North Korea closely mirrors scenes that came out in 1994, when Kim il-Sung died. * North Koreans' hysteria over Kim Jong-il's death recall ancient Greeks' violent grief. * Kim Jong-il dropping the bass with Daft Punk, Huoratron, Skrillex, etc. * Related: Shufflin' grandpa, and other
Life in Newfoundland is changing. Nostalgia abounds for simpler, harder times, and outsiders are required to kiss cod on the mouth. But not everyone’s drinking the rum.
* U.S. rated the world's most charitable country in 2011. * Mark Thoma demonstrates with a simple game why the great economic divide makes everyone poorer. * Lehrer: Our theories about cause and effect are inherently perceptual, infected by all the sensory cheats of vision. * "A slice of soapsuds
Our Man in Boston sits down for this third conversation with author, critic, and book-world majordomo Sven Birkerts to talk about the current reviewing situation, the best books of 2000, and Amy Winehouse.
* Retired general says Egyptian protesters "deserve to be thrown into Hitler’s ovens.” * Thirteen dead in Cairo as clashes continue into fourth day. * Two days after Kim Jong-il's death, the CIA had no idea what happened—a "comparatively minor" failure. * Photographs from North Korea, "
* Of drone pilots, 30% suffer high levels of stress—though not dangerous levels, the Air Force says. * The differences between your debt and American Airlines's. * Analysis of how much money top chess players can make. * Reasonably easy math on how tidal power—virtually inexhaustible and less intermittent than
Today is the third installment in our series with Explodingdog. Sam is publishing a comic story here each week on TMN based on your suggestions. Leave your ideas for next week’s installment, and any questions for Sam, in the comments.
Since the 1990s, when Japanese art went Pop, Yoshitomo Nara’s paintings, drawings, sculptures, and ceramics of children and animals have infiltrated the world—to the point that it’s difficult to picture contemporary art without them
* Tributes flow in after Sunday's death of Vaclav Havel, playwright and president. * Related: Remnick's profile as Havel left power, in a tailored suit rather than borrowed trousers. * Kim Jong-il's death announced by weepy Korean newscaster. * While his country suffered, Kim Jong-il realized his family&
* Tunisia celebrates a year since its revolution. * Egyptian soliders and protestors continue to clash, undermining credibility of elections. * Keep track of the Republican candidates, debates, primaries: six debates in January. * Brazil to give World Cup soccer tickets for guns, make goalposts out of the weapons. * Favela gangs provide social services
* Standoff continues in Chinese protest village over corrupt officials and land seizures. * Japanese officials say crippled Fukushima reactors are in "cold shutdown"—so much grandstanding, say critics. * After careful analysis, it turns out that UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon just isn't very funny. * Christian Bale roughed
From time to time I’ve had fun thrashing Midsomer Murders, because it appears to be filmed on a whites-only agenda—my wife and I have a game we play called “Spot the Colored Person”; in approximately 80 episodes we’ve only had reason to play it four times. And
* Christopher Hitchens dead at 62 from pneumonia, a complication of his esophageal cancer. * My chief consolation in this year of living dyingly has been the presence of friends. * Longform's round-up of articles by and about Christopher Hitchens. * Ian Parker's definitive bio of Hitchens: "How a
I knew when I was in trouble—like the time I was 13 and was caught watching porn on my dad’s computer—and I knew I couldn’t escape my fate. Nor would I have wanted to.
* State Dept. "will have billions to spend" in Iraq over the next few years. * And now we get to prematurely place behind us another quite troubling incident in our recent history. * This year was the first in over three decades that fewer than 100 people were sent to
The link between Occupy Wall Street, the environmental doom of Czech villages, and the noise of a wailing child on a freezing, black morning in Sweden is not obvious—but it does count for everything.
* Ad of Mitt Romney speaking French, with fake English subtitles, declined by Fox News for being misleading. * Chirac given two-year suspended sentence for corrupt behavior while mayor of Paris. * German social scientist says society is poisoned, consumed with status-minding and discrimination. * Massive face atop German lighthouse changes depending on surrounding
* Gawker dumps files documenting every time a Blackwater guard shot at an Iraqi between 2005 and 2007. * Author of "Observations From 20 Years in Iowa" cites "raging bonfire" of backlash that has him scared. * Podcasts on how to negotiate with kids, jerks, and the opposite sex.
My trips to view historic sites, then, have taken me deep into Staten Island, just north of the Bronx, and this past weekend to Flushing in northeasternmost Queens, where the Quakers’ original Meeting House stands today. I called to confirm the house would be open and tours would be available.
* Hong Kong is the world's most developed financial market, U.S. is no. 2, says report. * Forbes ranks America's banks. * The democratic market for ideas is not a truth machine. * African democracies will gain more legitimacy when elections oust incumbents—in South Africa, that may not
Twitter is the contemporary postcard—social updates that are limited by size, but not imagination. For a month, with a billion stamps, our correspondent moved his tweets from the laptop to the post office, and rediscovered the joy of mail.
* Obama hails end of war in Iraq; Iran cheers its victory. * Red Cross considers whether violent video games should be subject to international humanitarian law. * Chart plots which countries spend the most at Christmas. * Receivers don't care how much gifts cost; people prefer cash to surprises. * Cambridge puts
Running for president is stressful and allows little time for exercise. But a special set of yoga positions, from the Downward-Facing Spiral to a Soaring Newt, can offer just the break from routine that a candidate needs.
* Pressing China and Russia for action, UN says more than 5,000 people have died in the nine-month-long Syrian uprising. * United Russia's rally in Moscow sparsely attended; many people forced to be there. * List of the worst sounds in the world, with YouTube links. * Reddit meets Louis C.
* Brief history of price fluctuations in the cost of Barbie dolls and associated real estate. * Norway suffers butter shortage after fad diet depletes national stock. * Researchers analyze email response time and find we reply to friends first (within seven hours). * Study finds low speaking pattern, once classified as speech disorder,
Today is the second installment in our series with Explodingdog.
In his series “Lost Along the Way,” Alex Catt’s carefully composed landscapes bring a contemporary update to the idea of a continental tour.
* For-profit colleges caught scamming students lobbied the hell out of the White House and won the day. * Once more, "Coplandisms" are scoring political commercials. * Timeline of shady dealings in American campaign finance. * Republicans object to so-called "millionaires surtax" but can't find millionaires to object
* U.S. troops could remain in Afghanistan through 2014. * A female soldier in Iraq is more likely to be attacked by a fellow soldier than killed by enemy fire. * Thousands march today across Russia in biggest protests since fall of the Soviet Union. * Profile of the blogger and leading dissident
* Success of Egypt's Islamists marks a trend in the Middle East. * This year may see the end of "those heartless perennials" in politics, the three Gs: God, guns, gays. * Today's best joke on Twitter about the founding fathers. * Economic downturn finds the cremation business
* At about 5 a.m. today, the EU's plates diverged along the English Channel. * Mogadishu sees new, fierce fighting between al-Shabab militants and government and AU troops. * Al-Shabab takes to Twitter. * American jailed in Thailand for 2.5 years for posting links to banned biography of Thailand'
* China on climate change: bumbling, probably devious, and definitely confusing. * Letter from inside Damascus. * Costco shows what Americans want to buy: milk, eggs, and diamond rings. * Giving a kidney to a stranger shouldn't be applauded or considered heroic—it should be worth money. * Kurt Anderson on contemporary style&
First comes confusion. Didn’t my bike have a back wheel? Then comes anger.
When you’ve long been identified as a “literary type,” how can it be that receiving books as get-well gifts leaves you feeling empty, angry, and determined to chug YouTube straight?
* By calling Russia's election rigged, Putin says Clinton "gave a signal" to his enemies. * Brief account of Gorbachev's long road to becoming a dissident who is ignored at home. * Uproar after Medvedev retweets an insult directed at a jailed activist. * Seven easy steps to
* "Prepare for War: The Insane Plan to Outlaw Diplomacy With Iran." * The surge of Newt is real, causing Obama's advisors to rewrite the playbook, or at least write a new one. * Obama takes the Roosevelt raceway while gunning for Romney, Republicans, etc. * Tom Bartlett profiles Gene
There’s a little Dutch colonial village at the center of Staten Island called Historic Richmond Town. It was established in the 1690s following a wave of Dutch settlements in neighboring villages, of which Staten Island was home to many. Though the British had taken control of the former New
* Kremlin arrests 300 following election-fraud protests, including star of the opposition, Alexey Navalny. * Assad: "No government in the world kills its people, unless it's led by a crazy person." * Merkel's Euro strategy: clever, risky, dangerous; if the euro is preserved, she'll be
A small portion of the Massachusetts coastline is home to America’s biggest witch-hunt, a history of savage wife mobs, the occasional 400 percent increase of unlucky pregnancies, and the world’s largest deposits of black crystals.
* Syria to admit international observers, with strings; Hamas abandoning its Damascus headquarters to avoid taint. * Global study says income inequality isn't due to globalization. * Nation's moms demand Christmas lists. * Guardian series investigates psychology behind the summer 2011 English riots. * Oh, science journalism: "Creative People Cheat,
Today marks the beginning of our new series with Explodingdog. Starting today and continuing for the next two months, Sam will publish a comic story here each week on TMN based on your suggestions. Leave your ideas for next week’s installment in the comments.
* Top-secret war plans—to invade France—stolen from British embassy in Tehran, plus a Pulp Fiction poster. * Top Twitter hashtag in 2011: #egypt. * Blatant electoral fraud may have spared United Russia an even worse drubbing. * Videos show thousands chanting "Putin is a thief!" in Moscow. * Global Witness pulls
The day you become a parent, your sonic world expands to include hundreds of new sounds to amaze, annoy, and terrify. A field report of 14 alarms and ambient textures.
* Notes on Pakistan's "memo-gate," where Zardari is accused of knowing beforehand about the bin Laden raid. * Secrets of the Taliban's success: America's mistakes, Pakistan's support, unending supply of fighters. * Scientists recommend—for environmental reasons, and for better bills—a four-minute
Photographer Jane Fulton Alt discovered the beauty of prairie fires on the same morning that her sister underwent her first chemotherapy treatment.
* With Cain out of the race, Republican critics of Newt Gingrich turn silent. * Catalog of Gingrich's 156 Amazon reviews. * Early results show Putin's United Russia party clinging to majority. * Catalog of snooping tools available to governments obtained from attendees of recent surveillance conference. * Obama offers "
* Never before has the world been as close to war with Iran. * Insurgency will continue in Afghanistan, but by muddling through, there's optimism and growth. * Introducing the Muslim Brotherhood's deeply theocratic Tea Party-like offshoot. * Copenhagen plans to open government-run marijuana shops to combat gangs. * Discussing legalization
* Anders Breivik was cold and calculating, but calling him insane lets him off easy. * On Africa's real chance to follow in Asia's footsteps. * Change in Libyan leadership doesn't mean 200-year-old remains of American sailors closer to returning home. * Ambien and its generic twin, zolpidem,
* U.S. unemployment rate falls to 8.6%, lowest since March 2009 * Men commuting to work with women's legs. * Germany's Merkel rules out rapid fix to Europe's debt crisis. * Yet another wealthy person asks to be taxed in order to reward true job creators.
The problem with a trip down memory lane is that it might strand you in Candyland. Here are 10 new games well worth remembering.
* After 18 months of no government, Belgium appears ready to appoint a French-speaking socialist as PM. * Nearly half of a German city evacuates for the defusing of a WWII-era bomb. * Comedy theorist claims "sense of humor is the lure that keeps our brains alert for the gaps between our
In New York’s St. John the Divine Cathedral, a letter to a dead man, tucked under a plaque near his ashes, offers the first and only clue in a mystery about faith.
* White House decides Obama will offer no formal condolences to Pakistan. * Study finds racial animus cost Obama three to five percentage points in the national popular vote in the 2008 election. * Britons will be worse off in 2015 than they were in 2002. * Story of the blind CIA agent—also
There you are, post-Black Friday competitive shopping, convalescing in St. Moritz. The doctors are pleased with your progress, though you wish you had something to transport your mind far away, out of the body cast—some kind of distraction. You eye the morphine drip, but wouldn’t you rather have
* As recently as 1996, a political candidate's sexual affairs weren't mainstream news fodder. * Print news has come full circle now that the "future of news" is print. * Richmond Tea Party prepares for an audit after complaining about paying for a park used freely by
* Biggest strike in 30 years disrupts UK; 58% of schools closed. * Obamas take their daughters book shopping; the girls buy the President Everyone Poops. * Professional lobbyist Gingrich splits hairs over being a lobbyist. * Free speech rights of federal employees to be decided soon. * Audubon's Birds of America now
In the past 20 years, movies and the quotes they’ve sprinkled across American pop culture have occupied a shrinking proportion of our social mindshare. It’s time to mark and celebrate the death of the movie catchphrase.
* Iranian students storm British embassy in Tehran; semi-official news agency says protesters "conquered." * Dahlia Lithwick profile of Justice Kagan after a year on the bench. * John Stuart Mill, dead thinker of 2011. * Arab revolutionaries top Foreign Policy's list of top 100 global thinkers. * Stories you missed
When hard times hit a notable—and note-taking—member of Manhattan's 1%, she seeks out comfort in warm arms, big and strong, at New York's Zuccotti Park.
* Korea's president channels Carter and dons long underwear to conserve energy. * Patagonia ad urges customers to buy less of its clothing, less in general. * Kenya yet to wipe out jihadist militia in Somalia. * Gingrich's Belgian Congo dissertation mashed up with Tintin au Congo. * Keith Gessen, n+
We’ve worked with Sam before. Back in 2003, we published his “Stupid Dreams.” Sam’s m.o. is to transform one of his followers’ suggested titles into something witty, playful, and beguiling. Beginning next Monday, and continuing for the next two months, he’s going to publish a comic
* Military folk keep their jobs secret to avoid hero-worship, being looked on as victims, or simply the questions. * Pakistan's PM says "no more business as usual" with U.S. after NATO aircraft kill two dozen Pakistan troops. * Publishers quite aware that, for the first time in
“Get the fuck out of the motherfucking lane, motherfucker!”
If a person tells a joke in a forest and doesn’t get a laugh—that’s how you know he or she’s a true comic. A report from the 2011 International Society for Humor Studies Conference, where so-called experts of comedy submit themselves to professionals to be critiqued.
* Interactive history in photographs of recent uprisings in the Middle East. * Voters line up in Egypt, beginning an election timetable that lasts until March. * China has many female entrepreneurs and high-flying managers, though male attitudes about family haven't changed. * Beijing graffiti advertises jobs. * Drought in the South and
* State Dept. fingers Egypt's military rulers—"a government in power that the U.S. largely supports." * Story of the American torturer on trial in Guadalupe that's being ignored by the American media. * Q&A with the new Times comedy critic. * For female writers,
Thanksgiving is an American holiday, but that doesn’t mean it’s not celebrated elsewhere. And each of those celebrations—in Liberia, in Leiden, in the South Pacific—give us fresh reasons to be grateful for our own messed-up version.
* Latitude mystery in Europe—why high unemployment, low productivity, low investment are mostly found in the south. * South African legislators pass secrets bill to protect corrupt officials from press scrutiny. * Putin's secretary says boos were for an American fighter, not Putin; Russians tell American fighter, No, we were
We asked you to show us how close the recession is to your doorstep. Here’s our latest entry. (Send in yours.) {image-1} Name: Miranda Everitt Location: Two miles from my apartment in Oakland, Calif. Recovery/downturn: I took this photo on assignment for the Alameda County Community Food Bank,
* U.S. embassy in Beijing embarrassed by private groups' ability to out-produce cultural exchanges. * Pictures of the ongoing meme "Casually pepper spraying everything cop." * Making a meme of pepper-spray cop doesn't trivialize the event—it spreads the news. * Other things the internet can do: The
As a result, sometimes stuff gets cold, or burnt. We usually eat at least an hour later than planned. We make conversational beelines toward politics and religion. At least one person gets drunk and picks a fight. By dessert, someone is usually in tears. The day is mostly a success
When the annual trip home becomes a customer-service visit to “fix the internet,” sometimes even bourbon can't save the day. We gathered a half-dozen of our favorite tech writers and editors to help anticipate the headaches of 2011.
* Tahrir Square braces for crowds as protests in Egyptian cities enter fourth day of demonstrations. * Q&A for Egypt's new protests. * "Every cycle, the U.S. political system becomes more polarized and more dysfunctional, at greater human cost." * The chances of anyone existing are one
All year long, we keep track of the books we think will be great candidates for the tournament—books we loved, books we talked about, books we heard discussed on a plane. You know the rules: As long as it was a novel published in English in 2011, we’ll
* Following acknowledgment that recent Greek-jug dive was staged, Putin booed in martial arts ring. * When torture becomes another political choice, the debate becomes an empirical one about whether it works. * The problem with French employees isn't that they're work-shy, but poorly managed. * Design notes on the
I realize I sound like a J. Peterman catalog for pseudo-Prousts. The truth is, I’ll never own this robe. Mostly I don’t have the balls. But here it is again, nine seconds in, and then again, with length, at 03:17: Oh man, I know it’s lame.
* At least 20 dead, 1,750 injured as clashes resume in Cairo. * Origin story of Occupy Wall Street. * Attempt to define why some music—Bon Iver, Wilco, the National—is so damn boring. * Profile of prolific session bass player, who appeared on more than 10,000 tracks, Carol Kaye. * Homage
There’s something subversive about Marc Dennis’s new paintings, and it’s not just all the guns and kittens.
* Gaddafi's son and heir Seif-Al Islam said to be captured in Libya. * Posing nude for freedom, Egyptian blogger ends up stoking conservative sentiment ahead of next week's elections. * Following iconic photo of pepper-sprayed protestors, the iconic video from UC Davis. * In case you missed it: well-shot
* Political reform underway in Burma—"they are looking for steady progress from now on." * Abramoff: Vast majority of lobbyists start on the Hill; the link between serving the public and cashing in must be severed. * Obama said his visit to Australia was not about China—but that'
Tuesday, after I heard that the occupiers had been ousted from Zuccotti Park (which I prefer to call “Liberty Square”) I discovered a “live feed,” through an email from Citizens for Legitimate Government. The name of this feed was “The Other 99.” I haven’t watched television since 1971, when
* City-by-city round-up of Occupy marches and arrests. * Fifty-seven members of Congress among America's 1%. * Pictures of the 99% Batman logo projected in New York last night. * Flickr photo of the day: Hong Kong Island and Kowloon seen from the window of a plane. * "Ditch Taiwan" op-ed
The recent Pacquiao-Márquez match was full of lust, anger, calculation, sport—the same as what's occurring across America, in Zuccotti Park, in Congress, in every household with a bullet-skulled parent. Boxing is the sport of the now, and its lessons will be useful tonight.
* EPA goes after Arizona copper smelter after state neglects to do anything about pollution. * Johnson & Johnson to remove toxic chemicals from baby shampoo and other products. * Interactive Grimm tales from National Geographic. * Excerpt: Krzyzewski's drive to win includes spending hours on Angry Birds. * How and why birds
For two months, critics of Occupy Wall Street have complained that the group has no recognizable demands, no plan for reforms. But that’s not the point. They don’t want to reform the system. They want a new one.
* Brazen attempts by Egypt's military rulers to preserve power receive White House rebuke. * New Benetton ad features world leaders making out. * Italy’s gold holdings—world's third largest—worth about one-tenth of the estimated total amount required to cover Italy's bailout. * Today's
We asked you to show us how close the recession is to your doorstep. Here’s our latest entry. (Send in yours.) {image-1} Name: K Hall Location: Across the street from my house in Los Angeles Recovery/downturn: I took a second picture from the street to also show the
* Majority of business executives bring their own lunch to work, drive an SUV, part their hair on the right. * Anger grows in Europe against "what is increasingly viewed as harsh German domination." * Tourists in LA can't name three Germans, though an Austrian does come to mind.
A chat between our man in Boston and the writer Nicole Krauss about her latest book, in which her latest book is barely discussed.
* Syrian army defectors attack military base near Damascus, opposition groups say. * China's Confucius Peace Prize—to rival the Nobel—given to Putin this year for waging war. * Mongolia to build enormous ice shield to help cool and water Ulan Bator during summer. * To combat burger inflation, Argentina'
* Infectious disease specialist traces AIDS from 1900 forward while debunking origin myths. * New Radiolab episode about various patient zeroes. * "The euro crisis might wake Europe up. But more likely, it will lead to compromise and decline." * Cheesecake but interesting interview with Jeff Bezos on "how Amazon powers
People say you can never go home again. But you can go back on vacation. Notes on the specific tragedy that occurs when, revisiting the great national parks of your childhood, you realize all your memories of the wild derive from gift shops.
* Jordan king becomes first Arab leader to tell Syria's Assad to step down. * Moscow quickly announces its opposition to the Arab League's suspension of Syria. * Herman Cain struggles to oppose Obama's reaction to Gadhafi's fall. * NYPD evicts Occupy Wall Street. * Hours prior
* At a military funeral, comrades talk about proper preparation of last wills and testaments. * Reporter war-games an Israeli strike on Iran and things get ugly. * Six million people die each year from smoking—more than from AIDS, malaria, and traffic accidents combined. * Soon China will be where manufacturers look for
During the Great Arab Revolt in 1937, as British rule in Palestine was attacked and mass Jewish immigration continued, Pearl Chertok voyaged abroad with her camera.
* Rate of increase in new HIV cases in Greece predicted to rise to 60 percent by the end of 2011. * Dallas Symphony, going Euro, to be bankrupt within 90 days. * France demands to know why S&P sent out an (erroneous) email downgrading its credit rating. * Romans spontaneously cheer
* Syria suspended from Arab League and sanctioned, but international intervention is unlikely. * While Italian and Greek PMs have resigned, French politics could be transformed. * Director of French state energy company jailed for three years for spying on Greenpeace's anti-nuclear campaign. * In wider French hacking trial, cyclist Landis was
* One in eight veterans is unemployed; nine in 10 vets who served recently have been thanked for their service. * Veteran's Day Poem: "Facing It" by Yusef Komunyakaa. * For 11/11/11, 11 songs to turn to 11. * Fifty photos that brought home the war. * Official posters
New York cyclists are a tribe. Within any tribe, there are distinctions. We parse our smallest differences and look down on one another, even as we look down on everyone else.
* Italian senate adopts austerity package, preparing for Berlusconi's resignation. * Number of American catfish and goats to be unknown this year. * Little-known facts about America's nuclear arsenal—e.g., we're spending more than we did during the Cold War. * A vote for Putin is a
Every artist deals with critics differently—Richard Ford spitting on Colson Whitehead, for example. But the rule is to avoid direct contact. Not for John Warner, debut novelist, who decided to seek out the man behind his worst review.
* Former European Central Bank vice-president named as Greece's new prime minister. * Daniel Radosh gets wish: Bill Keane, "Family Circus" cartoonist, now dead. * Fake passport made for Adolf Hitler by the Special Operations Executive. * Teenagers dressed as angels visit crime scenes in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico's
Throughout this crisis, nothing has convinced me that massive cuts to government spending (instead of say, raising taxes, or just making sure people and companies pay their taxes) is a path to growth or recovery. So with the parting gift of austerity, Berlusconi’s departure is bittersweet. With the Greek
We asked you to show us how close the recession is to your doorstep. Here’s your latest entry. Name: Kari Hartmann Location: About 20 steps from my home in California Recovery/downturn: A few months ago on a warm summer day, completely out of the blue, my neighbors packed
* Notes written by Berlusconi while he lost his majority in Italy's parliament. * Chávez to host "cancer summit" for other South American leaders who have been treated for cancer. * Palestinian bid for UN membership headed for certain failure. * Penn State trustees fire school's president and
The emergence of the Social Media Exile essay has been swift and smug. A language expert dissects a genre while also being seduced by its allure.
To be considered, tell us in 100 words or less why you should be a judge in the 2012 ToB, and email your entry by midnight EST on Wednesday, Nov. 16, to talk@themorningnews.org. Want to know how to win? * Show us you’re a reader. As a judge,
* Italy’s borrowing costs cross key threshold, near levels that have forced others to seek bailouts. * Greece's Papandreou to step down today; successor not yet named. * Timeline of warnings since 1979 that Iran will soon be at the brink of nuclear capability. * Criminal charges are possible for Penn
When I was a kid on the coast of North Carolina, I would watch the first half of Monday Night Football on TV and then it was my bedtime. So I’d listen to the second half on the radio under the covers with the lights out, an earplug under
* U.S. to study—not speak about—the UN's report on Iran's continuing nuclear efforts. * Berlusconi says he'll soon resign and will not run for reelection. * Quotes from Berlusconi in a brief assessment of his genius. * Slideshow of Berlusconi's most embarrassing moments.
* Berlusconi wins budget vote, but seems to lose majority in Italy's lower house of parliament. * Six biggest American publishers refuse titles for launch of Amazon's lending library. * Interview from 1994 has Fidel Castro talking cigars. * "Shooter's sandwich" has two steaks, one loaf
When a crime reporter is told an outlandish account, his first obligation is to establish the facts. But when the story turns out to be a conspiracy, it can knock his sense of duty until it cracks.
* Sarkozy overheard calling Netanyahu a liar to Obama; Obama says Netanyahu on a daily basis is no fun. * Barak dismisses talk of strike against Iran. * Berlusconi remains defiant; lacking support, he may win today's vote if the center-left abstains. * GOP activists expect candor from Cain; Cain schedules press
While researching my historic destinations, one place that came up in every conversation was the Merchant House Museum in Manhattan’s East Village. The home was built in 1832 and bought shortly thereafter by one Seabury Tredwell. Tredwell had a large merchant-class family (hence the house’s current name), two
* If you want to see Italy on the road to ruin, there's no shortage of signposts. * Italy placed under special IMF preventive regime for fear of collapse, due to credibility issues. * Thousands donate to pay massive tax bill served on Chinese artist Ai Weiwei. * Amazon in China changes
A short list of people I’ve had a crush on since starting this column: the bagger at Whole Foods with the body of a lumberjack, dark reddish hair pulled back into a slight ponytail, one strand fallen loose and tucked behind his ear. A scruffy musician I used to
* International Atomic Energy Agency to say Iran now has the ability to produce a workable nuclear weapon. * Cole: Netanyahu and Barak are bluffing about bombing Iran; Obama won't green-light Israeli adventurism. * Related: David Remnick, in a nuanced assessment, not so sure (at least about the first part). * Pakistan
From the Kindle Fire to the iPad 2, the market is flooded with tablets. But only one can deliver a constant orgasm directly to its user.
* Andy Rooney dies at age 92. * Dryboarding scandal at Gitmo demands investigation that suicides were in fact torture. * It's Bank Transfer Day, and 650,000 have switched to credit unions since September. * Absorbing profile of how Tim DeChristopher became a martyr for the environmental movement. * They don’t
Here we go again. We’ve altered (or removed entirely) the legends from each of the below maps. Try guessing what each means using only clues contained within them—the relationships between color-coded regions, say, or perhaps word clues. Anything you can detect, really, is fair game. Answers are linked
* American students steadily improving in math, but still disappoint in reading. * Amusing take on the "to" in "When it comes time to saving the Constitution..." * Study: Walking through a door makes people forget more quickly. * Round-up of witty comebacks. * Six years later, post-divorce, groom sues wedding
When you’re feeling perky as a teenager but the doctor says your prostate is basically a Chinchorro mummy, a little erectile dysfunction can be suffered on the path to wellness. Oh, but the sex drive...
* Eleventh Tibetan since March self-immolates to protest Chinese rule: Qiu Xiang/Palden Choetso, 35. * Month-old baby with university degree receives salary from Nigerian government. * Summary of this week's collapse of the Euro's “comprehensive package." * Marine Le Pen, dogged by French reporters, has an awkward day
* Papandreou says he's ready to kill the referendum idea on Greece's eurozone bailout deal. * Other species on Earth that exceed, equal, or approach the seven-billion mark. * Bengalese finches' tweets tested for grammatical order. * Kenya's message of peace, with thousands of troops on the
Naturally, I have to procrastinate first, but at least I’m procrastinating intelligently (or so I tell myself) by reviewing Anne Lamott’s sublime Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life. Writerly types have been recommending this book to me for the past 15 years, but I was
Ted Williams’s last game for the Red Sox was almost a flop. But it provided fuel for one of the best sports essays of all time—until the author started tinkering. On baseball, “The Simpsons,” and the creative impulse to never stop.
* Despite tension in Kashmir, Pakistan agrees to normalize trade relations with India. * Catapults seized that smugglers used to fling weed over the border. * "The Shameless Republican Race to Cut Rich People's Taxes." * U.S. drops from fourth place to 23rd in global test for internal inequalities
I’ve been in three bike wrecks in my three years in New York. I’m looking forward to my fourth.
* Merkel would like "clarity" on the whole Greece risking a big populist "no" vote and chaotic E.U. exit. * Former skinhead renounces hate, needs 25 surgeries to remove tattoos. * Infographics are a thoroughly Victorian, not modern, phenomenon. * Tweeting Birmingham, England's newspaper ads of yore.
Today, from 2-3:00 p.m., the Biblioracle will use his magical powers to recommend the next book you'll love. Prior to that, a call-to-arms to save the plight of reading and an announcement about the 2012 Tournament of Books reader-judge contest.
* Iowa uninterested in Herman Cain's sexual-harassment past. * Is Jon Huntsman fluent in Chinese? The answer appears to be no. * Obama gets to say things Cameron can't—Brits reach for Shakespeare, Americans for Lincoln. * Scientists tell subjects that fingernail-on-chalkboard sound is contemporary music; subjects hate it anyway.
We asked you to show us how close the recession is to your doorstep. Here’s a sign of hope in North Carolina: Name: Rosecrans Baldwin Location: Chatham County, NC Recovery/downturn: This roadside espresso hut closed for business about 18 months ago. Now there’s a sign in the
* Chart shows how many Manhattans, standing-room only, are required by seven billion people. * Chinese immigrants explain why they're in Laos. * Whether or not to spank a child. * Anticipating tomorrow's Biblioracle session on TMN: "A book everyone should read and why." * Issue two of SO
From playing with childhood friends to sharing tips with other new parents, the author concedes he just gets along better with girls.
* Since 2001, Britain consumes less stuff; economy grows without noticeably increasing resource use. * Jon Lee Anderson on contemporary Libya and the fall of Gadhafi. * Zambians proud of their stability, with an ousted president retiring with grace. * Historian on extinct states in Europe offers five books to read now and why.
Hear that knocking? It’s either Halloween or those are Buy Here Pay Here dealership reps here to kidnap a family member. Assuming the former, are your Halloween preparations complete? If not, TMN (The Mourning News!) can help: * If you still need a costume but don’t have any money,
* Everyone thinks women fall in love more easily, but a study of college students finds the opposite. * Lament of an aging professor observing his own brain slowing down, with a killer conclusion. * University of Chicago hosts Jersey Shore academic conference. * Funded by Jeff Bezos, the 10,000-year clock will power
From Simen Johan’s “Until the Kingdom Comes,” a fantasy world of animals dropped into unfamiliar settings, where the humans appear to have expired.
* Studies find mind-reading is now feasible, if a bit crude. * Phrases like "god particle" may drive scientists batty, but they stoke interest that promotes research. * Photos leak from "foreclosure mill" law firm Halloween Party that mocked evicted homeowners. * Photographs taken inside haunted houses when the lights
* Much of the growth beyond seven billion people will come from fragile states. * Businesses from NATO countries hope Libyan gratitude becomes opportunity to cash-in. * Equatorial Guinea invites first delegation to see how the country has changed—it hasn't. * From last year: TMN's Liz Entman watched her
* China admits two tons of "gutter oil" are consumed in restaurants; real amount believed ten times larger. * Taibbi: Rick Perry is the best little whore In Texas. * Hitchens drops the hammer on those who encourage dying people to believe in God. * Advanced degrees increasingly helping firefighters get ahead.
If you’ve been following this column and generally agreeing, and you haven’t already watched The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, take my word that Sharon Small as Sgt. Havers is superlative, leagues above and below Lynley (Nathaniel Parker, who’s better seen in Bleak House). For now, however, I want
A foreign talisman holds great power, but those who use it do so at their peril. In the grand TMN tradition of celebrating Halloween, our editors and writers create new endings to a well-known scary story.
* Freed Palestinian prisoners uneasily switch to their new lives as celebrities for Hamas. * Decades of aborting girls in India has caused emergence of "wife-sharing" between brothers. * North Korean media silent about Gadhafi's fall, Arab Spring. * Notes from working inside Burning Man's infrastructure. * Occupy Wall
* Explainer: Israeli and Palestinian preconditions for talks. * Interactive tracker of the Obama administration's economic, domestic, and foreign policies. * Senate's MAPLE Act would make sales of fraudulent syrup punishable by five years in prison. * It's fall, it's football season, therefore TMN recommends for
Cruising and boozing around Uzbekistan, a Canadian reporter winds up in a place that gives no logical reason to visit, where the question “why?” has no answer. Fortunately, virtual travel remains risk-free, except for all the beer.
We asked you to show us how close the recession is to your doorstep, and here’s our first submission, straight out of Big D: Name: Lindsay Graham Location: Dallas, Texas Recovery/downturn: I have NO idea whether this is recession or recovery, but it’s unsettling nonetheless. (An unrepaired
* Iraq vet hospitalized with skull fracture after being hit by an Oakland cop's tear-gas canister. * Occupy protesters aren't upset about Wall Street's riches—they're angry about Wall Street's cheating. * What to make of the Euro deal. * Sikhs in northern Italy
* Pictures of floodwaters in Bangkok, which will be incredibly vulnerable if protective dikes fail to hold. * South Africa supports Palestinian bid for U.N. membership. * Update on nationwide Occupy protests. * Development of Greek government debt as measured by the gap between Angela Merkel's fingers. * Chart explains ad agency
I did not know the woman in question, though her face was plastered all around New York at the time, and my friend certainly wasn’t the only one noticing. “Who is that girl in the T-Mobile ad” turns up 199 million Google results. That was his first thought upon
* Oakland police disperse hundreds of Occupy protesters with tear gas and flash bombs. * World power swinging back to America. * Occupy Wall Street movement's library includes science fiction and Chomsky. * In case you missed it: poetry at OWS. * Six men to simulate Mars mission inside a rocket stand-in for
An illustrated catalog of abuse taking place across the country, in cities large and small, where trees are being hacked, whacked, and chopped into unnatural shapes in the name of power.
* Rick Perry doubles down on birtherism, catering to majority of likely GOP primary-goers. * U.S. fears terrorism in Africa. * France to aid Kenya's intervention into Somalia. * Advertising is evil. * Favorite long-term data sets: prize-winning fishing catches; dates of Japanese festivals; continuous plankton collection. * Ian Frazier discovers no one
Late last month the artist Bob Cassilly was killed in an accident on the grounds of Cementland, the 54-acre disused cement factory near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers in St. Louis that he was transforming into something uniquely fantastic. Since 2000, more than 182,000 truckloads of
Once you begin imagining yourself as the romantic lead in a novel—and convince others of it as well—you won’t want to stop.
* Vatican calls for central world bank to oversee financial institutions. * Pictures of faces with money. * Wikileaks to stop publishing secrets due to block by credit-card companies. * N+1 releases Occupy! An OWS-Inspired Gazette as PDF—"an attempt to begin to think through what is happening." * "Occupy"
A man who spent three years painting the same English tree repeatedly—in all weather, day and night—explains how exactly, and why.
* Zooey Deschanel singing the national anthem suggests there are always new ways to desecrate America. * The average American three-year-old can recognize 100 brands * Business notes on Green Bay. * St. Louis's Rzepczynski stacked against other hard-to-spell baseball names * Interview with the batter who inspired Haruki Murakami to write a
My wife Laurie and I are back at my family’s river house near Bath, North Carolina. The visit got off to a rough start the first night when a cap on one of my teeth popped off. Simultaneously, the landlines went out, and (of course) the pathetic AT&
* Libya's new leader declares Islamic state in fashion to shock secular Arab commentators. * Hitchens: Gadhafi should not have been killed. * Millions of Tunisians vote, with turnout far above expectations. * Proposed legislation will give foreigners green cards in return for purchase of $500,000 of residential property, cash only.
* Iraqi politics won over the reality of fragile security, surprising U.S. military negotiators who didn't expect withdrawal. * Clinton warns Iran that Iraq remains close ally; robust U.S. presence in the region will remain. * Ackerman: Iraq War isn't over—5,500 mercenaries will remain to
* Consultancies help celebrities refuse money from "people who have done terrible things.” * Rice on her video serenade from Gadhafi. * Indian professionals attempt life on 100 rupees a day. * Where to live if you want to own a tiger, a wolf, a bear, etc. * Unabomber's belongings nicely anticipated
Once a relationship is past the point of repair, once her Go Bag is packed for leaving, some things are better set down on paper than spoken aloud.
* Obit for Gadhafi includes notes on his entourage: 400 guards; a mobile hospital; $6 million in cash. * Burial for Gadhafi delayed for investigation into still-mysterious circumstances of his death. * Occupy Wall Street's populism now twice as popular as the Tea Party. * Libertarian conclusions can be reached without regard
* Former Libyan leader Gadhafi killed, says Libyan Prime Minister Jibril. * Yankee fans take pride believing one of their own found Gadhafi in his hole. * "Super-entity" of 147 companies, mainly banks, hold disproportionate power over the global economy. * Jon Bon Jovi opens "pay what you can" restaurant
I’ve been thinking a lot about the state of modern girlhood lately. My husband and I have 10 much-younger girl cousins between us, mostly in middle and high school, and I’m getting ready to buy Christmas gifts for many of them. I don’t have kids; instead of
When London’s Tottenham district fell to youth-driven chaos this past August, an elderly barber almost lost everything. Then other young people stepped in to keep him cutting.
* Conflicting reports from Libyan commanders say Gadhafi's been captured and/or injured, and/or killed. * Some Pakistani military officers find this year's Army book club choice—Woodward's Obama's Wars—disturbing. * Rushdie talks about religion, Arab Spring, "addictive garbage" Game of
* Greece paralyzed by general strike, which now includes petrol bombs and tear gas. * Today: Send us cell-phone pics of the Recession creeping toward your door. * George Washington told servants to wait three days after his death before burying him. * Fungus from U.S. troops in WWII now killing Europe'
I decided to visit the site last weekend because of an event commemorating the Battle of Pell’s Point, fought about a mile from the church on Oct. 18, 1776. It was a gorgeous day, and one of the first that truly felt like autumn here in New York. I
For Israelis of a certain age, marriage beckons. But in this cradle of so many religions, a tangle of ancient rules and modern laws makes things surprisingly complicated.
* Primer on the long-running French scandal—Bettencourt/L'Oreal—that may be coming to an end. * Great Recession hitting Friendly's, Fuddruckers, Benningan's hard. * Empire, Nevada, dead. * Related: History of Crush, Texas, town that existed for one day's event. * "Active commuters" use
* Traffic accidents down over 40% in Abu Dhabi during recent Blackberry outage. * Animal mating rituals don't translate well to barroom banter. * World population, which hit six billion in 1998, to reach seven billion in a few weeks' time. * Malaria deaths fell over 20% worldwide in the last
Then Morse died and Lewis got a promotion and his own show, Lewis, to keep solving murder cases in Oxford, the university town he dislikes. You’d think they’d let Lewis to retire to Newcastle, but no. At the start, his wife’s killed in a car accident. And
I arrived at Zuccotti Park for the first time last Friday night as a group of drummers on the east side of the park were performing a collective improvisation—including a guy on a real drum set. It was amusing, but not memorable. I walked into the camp, and soon
When al Qaeda cleric Anwar al-Awlaki was killed in a drone attack late last month, friends and colleagues were left to mourn a man of generosity, humility, and an amazing porno collection.
* Photos from the weekend's global Occupy Wall Street protests. * Algorithms, not censorship, prevent the #occupy movement from trending on Twitter. * Gilad Shalit: "I haven't seen people in a long time." * Apple vs. Facebook vs. Google vs. Amazon—for the future of the innovation economy.
* Oldie but goodie: an honest in-flight talk, explaining why, for example, phones are banned. * Hostility not found in Cairo, but plenty of violence against women. * Number of women giving birth up five percent on Valentine's Day, down 11 percent on Halloween. * Day at the Congress for Aesthetic Vaginal
Not surprisingly, the crush Wikipedia page is quite robust. There is the movie with Alicia Silverstone. There is a Dave Matthews song (of course). There is a Mates of State album. Tragically, there is something called a crush film, in which live animals are stepped on. This is the opposite
A series of beach portraits from Ramos, an artificial saltwater lake surrounded by more than a dozen of Rio de Janeiro’s favelas—an oasis in one of the city's poorest areas.
* Occupy Wall Street march in Rome hijacked by rioters; bomb injures 100. * Life of Generation G-Chat. * Jessa Crispin on the sauicier side of capitalism: the desire and passion that drives hoarding. * Hotel employee brings in brass band to help him quit his job. * Charts demonstrate what Occupy Wall Street protesters
* Leaked Saudi demands for U.S. to attack Iran may have led to recent plot. * U.S. rushing contractors to Libya to secure anti-aircraft missiles. * U.S. troops deployed in central Africa to hunt down Lord's Resistance Army leaders. * How bankers see OWS. * Six years and $49 bilion
* Press secretary reveals Putin's PR escapades are mostly his own doing. * Romney's foreign policy ideas may not set the world on fire—good!—but he seems in denial about spending. * Arab world's reliance on exploiting natural resources has prevented private industry from developing. * One
One of the most endearing things about old-fashioned maps is how wrong they can be. Sometimes maps are so divorced from reality that we wouldn’t know what they were without the labels and legends. And without any of the usual metadata, could you figure out what a map represents?
* Cleanup called off in Occupy Wall Street's Zuccotti Park. * Of Iran-Mexico's plot to invade the States: the main lesson is that Tehran's man in Corpus Christi was gullible. * Policy at the EU. * French prosecutors drop attempted-rape case against Strauss-Kahn. * DSK accuser finds victory in
If distractions poison a writer’s ambitions, then surely a summer with no internet access is the antidote?
* NYPD officers available to Wall Street firms for $37/hour— indemnified by the taxpayer. * Likely source of virus affecting software in military drones: Mafia Wars. * Spanish politician sues FBI over its use of his likeness to make bin Laden mock-up. * "GM Backpedals on Anti-Cycling Ad." * Extensive analysis of
You may think the economy is bad right now. But you may also think it’s worse than it really is. To decide how bad is bad—or even, not so bad—let’s explore our surroundings to find evidence one way or the other. We’re collecting photos from
Cities are full of noise and scuffle, and they don't always reveal their history. Armed with a fistful of maps from 1901 and a smartphone bristling with data-recording apps, one man tries to uncover a city's secrets.
* Iranian dissidents, analysts hard-pressed to see Ahmadinejad plotting the assassination attempt. * Potential Gadhafi hiding places. * Hersh on the lawyer who helped him break his My Lai story. * Myanmar to free 6,300 prisoners. * Helen Mirren on silly interviews: "hard labor in the mines of marketing." * Notoriously sexist interview
* "Largest recorded animal liberation ever in the U.S" ruins environmentally minded San Francisco high schoolers' big day. * Complaint choirs a global phenomenon, frequently voicing the same complaints. * California bans shark fin soup. * Rules for actors from the Economist. * Bit character from Austin Powers, already in jail
That is well and good, but my own suggestion is that you never get a crush on a married person. It’s trouble. Leave it alone. My married crush began in an email exchange, with a man I only kind of knew. These details sound mundane, but they're
Right now I am drinking Nespresso. A cup—a very little cup—of the Dulsão de Brasil, currently my favorite variety. And I am about to make some more Nespresso. I’m finding it’s the rare coffee person who knows what I’m talking about when I say I
* Remember Gilad Shalit? Israel approves swap of 450 Palestinian prisoners for the IDF soldier. * Hermain Cain's foreign-policy positions itemized--mostly, he doesn't know, but he'll decide later very quickly. * To be frank: Herman Cain is alive because he's rich. * Obama campaign using Facebook-like
* Largest virus yet discovered isolated from ocean water near Chile. * Instead of showing Latinos working in restaurants, ads now find them eating there. * Bankers who claim their institutions are solid are like horror-film actors going for late-night forest strolls. * Mo Ibrahim's $5 million prize for "achievement in
The subtitle of the international version of the book is “The Meltdown Tour.” Lewis acts as tour guide, showing us some ruins, dramatizing the fall with anecdotes, spouting historical hyperbole, and stitching it together with stereotypes. The book is enjoyable when the sheer ineptitude of the powerful is drawn out—
For those of us who are single and looking, the world is full of opportunities and just as full of all sorts of regrets. Reviews of three places with three men.
* UN finds systematic torture of detainees at sites run by Afghanistan's intelligence service and national police. * Iranian actress sentenced to 90 lashes for appearing in film about Tehran. * School lockers, "the latest frontier in nesting," carpeted and wallpapered. * Remnants of a 1953 European motorcycle tour. * Hendrik
* With neurochemistry proving surfing's transcendence, Sartre, Camus, and Freud can sure carve. * Neuroscience dissenter takes out the "neurotrash." * Belief or disbelief in a Being is a matter of faith. * Violent clashes in Cairo mask quiet moves by Egypt's military against democracy. * True crime: Serial
Last week a New York Times baseball blogger posted an entry about sports radio. He described an hour he spent one afternoon listening to stations in Detroit and Philadelphia, certainly through his computer. He said that NFL football dominates the call-in shows, even in cities that have baseball teams in
During the 1990s, Steve Powers painted lauded graffiti across New York City as ESPO, and in 1999 published the dorm-room bookshelf staple, “The Art of Getting Over.” Here, a selection from his recent “Daily Metaltations.”
* Twenty-four killed in Cairo clashes between Coptic Christians and security forces. * Arab spring in smartphone circles finds war between IT staff and workers who use their own devices. * Hitchens: Pakistan is the enemy, "humiliatingly subsidizing [those who] sabotage us." * Naomi Klein lets Wall Street's occupiers know
* Now a decade old, the Afghan war is little better than half over, far from reaching goals. * U.S. drone fleet infected with virus we shouldn't worry about—yet. * Nobel Prize-winning women were powerful because they directly confronted evil-doers. * Human sociability rituals like chanting and dancing as protest
* The GOP consensus on recession-recovery is fundamentally wrong, but only Romney is even partially skeptical. * Breezy history of American fiscal policy finds the Tea Party battling Alexander Hamilton. * Fry: Those who label Jobs "salesman" or "showman" display their asininity. * Ten unicorns of China policy debunked. * Study
The occupation of Wall Street has been heralded as a passionate grassroots movement (now beloved by celebrities) that is spreading nationwide and claiming to reflect America’s non-wealthy 99 percent (even if that same bracket includes most of the wealthy bankers on Wall Street). To put greed into sharper focus,
* Three win Nobel Peace Prize "for their nonviolent struggle for the safety of women." * Economic indicators, consumer sentiment are at an all-time disparity—it's not as bad as we think, and we think it's bad. * EPSN drops Bocephus, who claims he dropped them first—
* In Somalia, radical Muslims create famine, but you don't hear celebrities saying, "Fuck radical Muslims." * iPhone photo gallery from Rio's favelas. * Compilation of Steve Jobs's greatest hits, and the day's great tributes. * Archive of pretty much every Apple product ever
Long before The Wire came along, Prime Suspect exposed the mental ant-farms of both criminals and police. The stories were great (top-notch casting), and also lasted very long, three hours or so, which is a feast for those of us in the Netflix age, who binge on crime stories in
The deserts of Morocco are wide and golden. Trust nearly 200 American college students to track down and guzzle whatever alcohol lurks in the sands of the Islamic kingdom.
* Former Gizmodo editor remembers the kindness of Steve Jobs, wishes the iPhone 4 scoop happened differently. * Mossberg remembers the Jobs he knew, who phoned on Sunday nights, which annoyed his wife. * The iPod was...so forward-thinking that no one even knew they were supposed to want one until it was
* Islamist militant group's suicide blast kills at least 70 in Mogadishu. * The attack in Somalia had long been predicted; more can be expected. * Kim Jong Il's grandson prefers democracy to communism, loves Love, Actually. * Underwear Bomber's case goes to trial. * From August down to
And yet, I sat in the dark theater and felt a planetary pull toward him. I went all hot and melty during a scene in which he did little but stare at his love interest, a mysterious smile flickering on his lips. The movie was hypnotic, strange, but I noticed
* Overtake Wall Street is the result of liberals' obsession with the Tea Party and its perceived effectiveness. * Backgrounder on John E. Zuccotti, who checked out the protest in the park that bears his name. * LA City Councilmen venture into the tents at Occupy LA. * "The problem with France
Over time, a couple shares a bed, a past, and money. But when the relationship ends, as accounts are counted and paid, some debts are more complicated than they seem.
The weekend of Sept. 17 the Hamilton Grange was being rededicated to coincide with Constitution Day. I won’t condescend to tell you who Alexander Hamilton was or why he’s such a big deal for the United States; we all know him principally as the founder of the New
* British Airways to sell $200 courses on how to survive an airline evacuation. * Feminists rally against "mademoiselle," call for French equivalent of "Ms." * Journalist follows protocol to Interview a woman with 100-plus personalities. * David Brooks defends Mitt Romney. * Leading contender for U.S. presidency suggests sending
* The most popular contraceptive for women in southern and eastern Africa appears to double the risk of HIV. * LAPD says 911 response will suffer as officers are pulled to monitor prisoners released due to overcrowding. * When Texas counties handled executions. * Neal Stephenson surveys the history of science fiction and its
In a North Carolina mountain town, the cops are good old boys, the sheriff’s a teddy bear, and the chief conducts drug raids in his head. All of which spells nothing good for a Mexican caught with a carful of guns, or for the town’s “Cop Beat” reporter.
* Elections in Zambia symbolize democratic progress in southern Africa: rare and patchy, but ongoing. * Eight ways to keep young officers from running away from an Army career. * About that iPhone/fMRI story over the weekend: Brain-imaging experts call big-time bogus. * Items confiscated from people entering British Parliament. * Interactive map of
Five years ago, I joined MetaFilter. MetaFilter began as—and primarily remains—an online space for members to share interesting links and comment on them. Period, end of sentence. But a few specialized subgroups have developed, including one of my favorite places on the entire internet: AskMetaFilter. The concept is
Chad States previously photographed men at their most masculine. His latest work finds them amid lush parks at their most discreet.
* Watchdog alleges Shell paid Nigerian militant groups in order to maintain production amidst conflict. * By focusing on social, national security issues—and downplaying the economy—Obama '12 resembles Bush '04. * City withholds free 9/11 Memorial tickets from tour companies who try to charge extra for them. * Yann
* Anwar al-Awlaki is the U.S.'s first due-process-free citizen assassination. * Details of the two-year al-Awlaki manhunt, which also led to death of al Qaeda's magazine editor. * Bahrain's vicious crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators requires U.S. to cease arms sales. * India's PM is
* New numbers find New Orleans lost 29% of its population in the last 10 years. * Of small companies formed between 2004 and 2008, only 3% added more than 10 employees. * Neutrinos getting lots of attention for potentially refuting Einstein. * Performance psychologists enter the classical-music world to help musicians cope with
That election saw the defeat of a right-wing coalition which, allied with the far-right Danish People’s Party, earned Denmark the label of the Arizona of Europe, due to immigration policies and xenophobia. Here in Denmark, most people are happy that time’s over. A left-wing coalition has the opportunity
For the past 14 years, I’ve been studying the nocturnal goings-on in a dilapidated loft building at 6th Avenue and 28th Street, Manhattan’s wholesale flower district from 1954 to 1965. Ten years before that, I began listening to wee-hour sports talk radio from New York’s WFAN while
* A study of Twitter moods finds everyone has nearly the same ups and downs throughout the day. * How do I make my document look like it was written by an Cthulhu worshipping madman? * Only the truly bookish could penetrate the "atmosphere of funlessness" once found in small bookstores.
* Excellent, lucid summary of current events in the Middle East. * Al Qaeda asks Ahmadinejad and other conspiracy theorists to stop giving the U.S. credit for 9/11. * Paper says the economic crisis is no longer making Americans unhappy, so maybe we're heading for a cliff. * More Pinker
“Get the nerve,” she wrote back. Actually she wrote: “GET THE NERVE.” It was typical that I couldn’t just join a dating site—I had to manufacture a scenario in which the story depended on it. Why was I like this? I schemed my way through flaming hoops when
Perhaps bigamists have it the worst: “You must refrain from changing your relationship status to “It’s Complicated,” regardless of how true it may seem. To monogamists, a status change signals marital instability. This will only attract inquisitive wall posts and potential temptations from ex-paramours and those meddlesome divorcees from
* A month after the White House promised a crackdown, 2,900 illegal immigrants with criminal records arrested. * Reebok to pay $25 million in arrears over toning shoe health claims, but stands behind its technology. * Michael Moore at the Wall St. protests. * Last year only 60 children were adopted in the
* Western governments shy about defending human rights; liberty declined for the fifth year in a row. * Long-term cost of detainee abuse: Now torturers can say, "But you torture too." * Rick Perry rumbled for trashing North Carolina BBQ. * Jenny Diski not shy in analyzing published "happiness project."
* For every step forward Bulgaria makes to shed its Communist past, the old guard is right there, refusing to let go. * Conservatives latch onto Gibson Guitar illegal wood raid as an example of big government hurting U.S. businesses. * Nicholas Feltron, designer and analyzer of self-collected data, credited with inspiring
Running into your father on the internet can be a startling event when it’s unexpected. Particularly when your father is dead.
Benedict Cumberbatch—the man sounds like his own classification of mania. “But I can’t go outside, darling, Sherlock’s on, my cumberbatch is acting up again.” Seventh greatest detective in contemporary British TV, and after only three episodes of Sherlock? Why not? Cumberbatch is the best Sherlock Holmes since
* Trader who spun tales of greed on the BBC perhaps too honestly found to be the real deal. * Confessions of a Virginia executioner. * Greeks possess "what social scientists call very low 'tax morale.'" * EasyJet's founder to launch new low-cost competitor, FastJet. * California to allow
Marcus Garvey Garvey had a stroke in January of 1940, and he becomes incapacitated. George Padmore, who was a columnist for The Chicago Defender, had heard a rumor that Garvey had died and instead of confirming this, he published a premature obituary. The obituary described Garvey as a man whose
Our man in Boston sits down with the Pulitzer-winning novelist to discuss Australian literature, Harvard's (neglected) charter to educate American Indians, and those residents of Martha's Vineyard who say no to Chardonnay.
* New Zambian president, calling Chinese investors "infesters," wants migrant workers expelled. * Data since 2008 shows steady downward trend in New Yorkers consuming cocaine. * When Kerouac met Kesey, as told by their agent. * Politicians should fear cartoons before editorials—they're much more vicious. * Scientists say four or
* Reporter who first interviewed Dubya 25 years ago returns for another look. * Putin to soon resume being president. * U.S. crime continues dropping, even—in fact, especially—in states hardest hit by the recession/depression. * Everyone in the Radiohead demographic hates Ticketmaster so much right now. * Chàvez as Twitter beast—
The creatures in Alison Brady’s portraits escaped from an Ambien nightmare and are hanging around the house, scaring the cat. Some images may be NSFW.
* Women to receive the right to vote in Saudi Arabia. * Andrew Sullivan and former airman Keith Boyea on how Bush-Cheney shattered their worldview. * Kristof interviews Ahmadinejad. * Surgeon Gawande on having a coach--something he never considered for his operating room, until he did. * NYPD mum on using mace against Wall Street
* Putin to run for president with Medvedev stepping aside—decade of consolidating power will secure him to 2024. * No votes on Palestinian statehood: U.S., Canada, Israel, Micronesia—planned negotiations will be more fruitful. * A Palestinian state will exist as opposite of Kosovo: potentially enjoying UN recognition but lacking sovereign
When they say “must,” the commenters quoted are trying to say that any other course of action is dumb, because the one they’ve proposed is better. Instead, they aren’t saying anything at all. Europe must work backwards from a vision of where its monetary system will be several
* Texas ends special last meal requests for death row inmates. * Root causes of the London riots. * One day, brain scanners could reconstruct your dreams. * New Yorkers: Next Monday and Tuesday John Warner will be reading from his new book The Funny Man. * Related: Read an excerpt from The Funny Man.
In the Port-au-Prince neighborhoods of Turgeau, Bois Verna, and Pacot exist 300 "gingerbread houses"—derelict and endangered, never mind scary. Still, a good old-fashioned ghost story takes some looking for. Until it comes to find you.
* China estimated to execute as many people in three days as U.S. does in a year. * Survivor of 9/11 revenge killing spree, shot in the face, tried to stop killer's execution. * People interested in changing the world have to be looking towards the future and are
3:38 a.m. I returned home yesterday from two weeks in Brooklyn. Summer became fall while I was gone. Our windows are open and tree frogs and crickets sing through them. The cicadas seem to be gone. My wife sleeps beside me. I switch on WFAN and plug in
* Scientist argues dyslexia is not a handicap, but a different kind of wiring with hidden strengths. * Ahead of the Nobel Prize award announcements, Thomson Reuters issues its annual prediction of the winners. * Another predication: America will have its first trillionaire in 98 years, give or take. * There's still
For centuries, the Camino de Santiago has drawn religious pilgrims to northern Spain. But those guys never did it with walkie-talkies, GPS, taxis, and Wonder Bread.
* In Mexico, gunmen block traffic with bodies of 35 victims as cartels continue battle for control. * Residential alternative to prison helps women stay with children, learn responsibility and structure. * Oman served as broker between U.S. and Iran in hiker release—with little oil, it needs friends. * Shoot camera footage—
* The Recession may not have resulted in a crime wave, but evidence shows it may have caused a spike in child abuse. * Outrageous teacher cheating scandals. * Experimental philosophy leaves the armchair and heads to the streets. * From a Cervantes-inspired Shakespeare play to incomplete Plath novel, history is littered with lost
I IMed Thomas. “I have seen so much today that I can’t unsee.” “This might be good fodder for your crush column,” he said. “Crush?” I said. “I want to cry a little bit. This is the opposite of the crush feeling, which is light and happy and safe.
Every year, tens of thousands of gamers descend on Seattle to attend a convention that began as a webcomic, and has grown into the epicenter of gaming culture. An account from this year's event, which encompassed nearly every imaginable game genre—and a few never before imagined.
* To avoid UN showdown, America, Europe urge Abbas to compromise, knowing he wants a symbolic win. * Ex-Afghan president assassinated—peace talks could be doomed without native leadership. * Bloomberg fears social unrest in American cities, but citizens' despair prevents organization. * Republican candidates all radically anti-choice, anti-environment, want incredible economic deregulation.
* FBI reports violent crime down for fourth year in a row, upending belief that more unemployment means more murder. * Middlebury College tortures incoming freshmen by having their admissions essays acted out by upperclassmen. * Cache of 1920s vocational school student records sends reporter into reverie. * How Whole Foods uses fresh flowers,
Pope Benedict XVI Until 2005, under John Paul II, the papal apartment was run by Polish nuns. The memores aren’t nuns, do not wear religious garments, are laypeople and live in the world. But this isn’t the first time that lay housekeepers are allowed inside the papal apartment.
* Founder of anonymous group of active-duty soldiers protesting DADT reveals self to be Air Force officer. * The West's human rights compass is off bearing due to loss of moral authority, UN influence. * Five important stories to follow during UN Week: Somalia, good governance, Syria. * Indians go to great
When asked, focus groups describe the funny man as "untalented, successful, bad husband and father." He had been at the top, but is now heading toward the bottom. An excerpt from John Warner's forthcoming novel, The Funny Man, published by Soho Press.
As a copy editor, your job is to enforce the rules of grammar, spelling, and style, and do so with enough conviction and authority that you don’t have to provide a remedial grammar lesson with every correction. You also have to keep track of the logic of the piece
* Overconfidence has survived as a trait because its recklessness is essential to getting things done. * Escaped pet birds teach wild birds English, swear words included. * Firm offers horses as business consultants. * Wartime patriotism and advertising: then and now. * What two pounds of cocaine looks like in a drug mule'
Covering 11 provinces in a four-month tour of China, photographer Toby Smith returned with a multifaceted look at the country’s burning energy needs and the rapid measures China is taking to meet demand.
* Ireland rebukes dysfunctional Vatican. * Israel's attempts to restart peace talks to avert Palestinian bid for statehood could inflame tensions. * Palestinian leader won't be persuaded to abandon bid—negotiations can continue in any event, since violence is over. * The Palestinian stock exchange is built for disaster. * Defense
* Fearing political collapse, U.S. increases drone strikes on al Qaeda targets in Yemen. * Forced to fend for themselves for generations, Yemenis created own social order. * Amid all our disasters, why are the only revolutionaries on the right? * Eager to avoid tainted food, China's rich and elite get
* British courts come down hard on arrested rioters, three-quarters of whom have previous criminal convictions. * LAPD detains, but doesn't arrest, SpongeBob. * Mug shots from Amish men booked for refusing to affix orange safety triangle to buggy. * Coed naked rugby less sexy than thought. * Research into wisdom of crowds
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, tips for a productive working vacation with your extended family.
* Legal advisors to White House question using lethal force against non-senior militants. * Ban Ki-moon's unusually strong Syria rhetoric suggests international measures—even sanctions. * In Bahrain, clashes begin after sundown most nights, following apartheid-like repression. * Slender electoral win by Danish left bucks Europe's rightward drift—may indicate
* Billionaire Tea Party brothers want to make voting harder for Democrats. * Related: Tea Party Ipsum * Riding China's fastest, newest, superlative-est train. * China grabs half the spots on a list of the world's 10 largest employers. * Chairman Mao's calisthenics updated with new, competitive "hoohah&
I knew Thomas would have a plan. Thomas is a man of action, not a woman of romance and longing like me. I get a crush, and that is the end of the story. Thomas gets a crush, and he has a date on Friday night. It’s not that
* Arizona boycotters unsure whether the campaign should be on or off, particularly since the immigration law failed. * Denmark set to elect left-wing government, first female PM today, hoping to shed anti-immigrant reputation. * Peru's best-known musician, also its first black cabinet minister, works to end discrimination. * Honest and intelligent
With more than 70 TV show premieres this fall, who has time to watch them all? Or even know what any of them are about? With no prior knowledge of the shows' premises, here are some guesses.
* Putin in action: looking at leopards, arm-wrestling, etc. * Psychologist Daniel Kahneman on how posters influence generosity and the impact of "vomit." * Carrots' orange color began as a Dutch political tactic. * Doctors observe characters in famous paintings, diagnose them with STDs, rare diseases. * Mysterious "menotoxin" is
It again looks likely that Greece will default. While it hardly indicates the immediate demise of a whole continent, European politicians and markets fear the consequences for the Eurozone. John Lanchester is even more fearful. He writes in the London Review of Books that this crisis is just a single
* Despite Ahmadinejad's promises of release, fate of U.S. hikers still rests with Iran's judiciary. * After five years of incarceration, Chinese dissident describes treatment "beyond people's imagination." * Mother of victim in London's 7/7 bombings suing News Corp over phone
When you were a toddler, doctors told your parents you had a "failure to thrive." Which means: You're small, and you're going to be short. Later, when medication helps you grow faster than you’ve ever grown before, the hardest part may be deciding when to stop.
* Mosquitoes and other pests can now be engineered to exterminate themselves. * Forget hurricanes—the East Coast is in for longest, strongest allergy season on record. * How faulty memory, alleged wrongful conviction, and a subpoena battle drove away Northwestern's star prof. * Welcome to college and sorry to burst your
My doctor says I should exercise three to four times per week. He told me walking to the subway doesn’t count (neither does walking home from it).
* In his first public address, Libya's interim leader asks rebels to shun anger and forgive. * Though still invisible in leadership, Libyan women are eager to maintain influence, respect gained during revolution. * Obama proposes to finance his job bill by ending some tax breaks for oil companies, the rich.
When “Repress Yourself” was published in the New York Times magazine in February 2003, it had been 18 months since Sept. 11, and someone had finally dared to suggest we might want to stop thinking about it so much. I don’t mean to be flip; Sept. 11, 2001 was
* Supercomputer looks backwards at news articles, predicts Arab Spring, bin Laden's location. * Viewing Contagion as an argument for big government in times of crisis. * Contagion consulting epidemiologist on the reality of Soderbergh's fictional bug. * Researchers discover young bats learn to hunt by eavesdropping on experienced bats&
* How to end the 9/11 era and beat terrorism: Secure nukes and refuse to be terrorized. * To help the dying cope with the reality of death, dignity therapists ask them to tell a story of their life. * It's a strange assumption that novelists good at storytelling are
Animated images inspired by Carl Sagan that show humans made from stars.
* Libyan rebels' assault on remaining loyalist strongholds meets heavy resistance, slows. * Increasingly desperate, Syrian protestors take to the streets to ask for international intervention. * Syrian soldiers executed for refusing to fire on protestors—defectors increase, but no senior officers. * Guatemalans grudgingly embrace once-vicious military due to powerful drug cartels.
I’m in Brooklyn again this week, working on a theater installation called Chaos Manor, which is part of the Brooklyn Book Festival on Sept. 16 and 17. The installation makes use of tapes and photographs made by W. Eugene Smith in a dilapidated loft building in Manhattan’s flower
* Libertarian lawyers and DC hipsters join forces to fight for the rights of food trucks. * Bay Area restaurant reviews in the style of Cormac McCarthy. * You say "macaron," I say "macaroon." * America's surprise export to Japan: high-quality hay. * Researchers conclude fiction builds empathy. * Luminarium
Class is back in session at campuses across the nation. But for the rest of us who yearn for an assigned reading list, the Biblioracle will recommend your next favorite novel today from 2-3:00 p.m. ET.
As Texas burns, prayers are answered in the form of a feathered-haired governor. It’s a good thing he already knows how to beat down the devil.
* Details of Obama's jobs plan, and what happens next. * Continuing unemployment stagnation in the West is far from inevitable, but only if austerity ceases. * Revolutions devour their children. The spoils go to the resolute...who know what they are pursuing and how to achieve it. * Turkey offers to
* Because it's there: UK scientists hope to revive a 1970s satellite still in orbit. * Has 9/11 spurred a great work of art—or was DeLillo right that terrorists are the myth-makers of our age? * Neuroscientists discover that you probably weren't where you thought you were
Trustworthy: The genius detective must have faith in your silence, your belief in his brains, your wakefulness during stakeouts, and your way with a handgun, should he want one used but not desire to fire one himself. Loyal: Clearly you should prefer him to all other detectives. And the police.
* Proxy war fought by U.S. backed warlords in Somalia, helped create militant Islamist threat. * Beyond refugee camps, a life of dignified exile avoids double-victimization. * Images of the wildfires that have devastated central Texas this week. * Comparing the acreage destroyed by this season's Texas wildfires: The damage would
Construction continues at the new World Trade Center—as does criticism of the approved designs. But a look deep inside the new structure shows the progress so far has proven to be in exactly the right direction.
* The silent drought in Nairobi slums: Aid organizations' emergency indicators don't work in cities. * Forty years on, researchers test willpower of the "marshmallow experiment" participants. * How lawyer-turned-innovator Narcis Monturiol invented the submarine, then was promptly forgotten. * Dutch realize they need a mountain, plan to build
I had decided to go to South America in part because I didn't have a boyfriend. That sounds so lame, particularly in the face of the cooing admiration I received for my derring-do—A woman! Alone!—but it was precisely my status as a woman, alone, that inspired
* UN warns cuts, austerity will lead to stagnation, that stimulus is essential to high employment. * Anticipating China's Iceland movement is tough—compared to Japan's economy, is could be soon and steep. * Swiss canton has too many jobs, too much growth, no middle class, dumb low tax
Armed with personal histories and transfer credits, grads from ’88 to ’15 hold a fall-semester seminar on majors, dorms, and the types of roommates to avoid.
Popular science books are all well and good until they ask you to picture a hundred cats playing volleyball in the fourteenth dimension. Writing lessons for astrophysicists.
* Over a thousand homes in Texas destroyed by wildfires; 23 fires and counting. * The scandal around Chirac isn't about him skipping court for being sick; it's about French justice avoiding him for so long. * Teddy Wayne interprets Dick Cheney's post-9/11 dreams. * See also:
Woody Allen and Mia Farrow* (not married) Then in April 1979, [Farrow] noticed a picture of Allen on the cover of this magazine. He had on a scruffy sweater and was holding an open umbrella over one shoulder. She found the picture appealing and read the profile inside, concluding that
Booker Prize-winner John Banville discusses writing crime novels under a pseudonym, hanging around with authors who own multiple homes, and why literature takes longer to produce than pulp.
* August becomes first month with no U.S. military deaths in Iraq since 2003. * Interpol chief says the web has replaced Afghanistan as terrorists' main training ground. * Hatfields and McCoys feuded from the Civil War until 1890, and again in 1947; but 9/11 brought them together. * Remnick: This
* How the CIA became a killing machine, with massive escalation in use of drones in recent years. * Tripoli security chief endured extraordinary rendition by U.S., torture, has no hard feelings. * Memos suggest China tried to sell Gaddafi arms, may be excluded from reconstruction. * China isn't letting up
A few days ago I awoke and tuned my transistor to WFAN. It was around 4:31 a.m. Lori Rubinson was hosting the call-in show. Immediately she went to a break. The advertisements were for: MJHS, Metropolitan Jewish Health System, a home health provider; Midas “total car care”; GEICO
* Berlusconi calls Italy a "shitty" country that sickens him, and vows to leave. * Dutch game show pits failed asylum seekers in contest to show knowledge of Dutch culture. * Detailing those who gained from 9/11. * No guesses for when Gadhafi will show up at his vacation home, located
* Solutions to the space debris problem: magnetic nets, catcher's mitts, anything to stop it multiplying. * Since May three NHL players have been found dead—all enforcers who dropped gloves to punch and be punched. * Endangered species babies born in labs. * A chart of defunct nations is the key
How Hyman Roth's quip in The Godfather: Part II picks up on a cinematic pastime, and exposits layer upon layer of information about his character.
* South Africa's ANC, long cozy with Gadhafi, says West showed Africa disrespect in Libya. * Photos from inside Libya's Internal Security (aka domestic spying) Unit center in Tripoli. * South African politics summary: Disciplining Malema is Zuma's greatest challenge so far. * World's biggest khat
First the bad news: Trouble remains, fundamental flaws may doom the continent, and growth isn’t happening as fast as hoped. Business and consumer confidence appear strikingly low, according to figures released this week. But of course; there’s no reason sentiment should differ from the financial markets, or that
* New York, Arizona investigate charities that may have spent millions intended for Sept. 11 causes. * Alex Ross fills in the background on his piece on an opera about an Auschwitz guard that took 40 years to stage. * Opera group refuses to perform The Mute Girl of Portici in Belgium for
* Ten events since 9/11 that have been more significant—e.g., America's response. * If the U.S. continues to "lead from behind," NATO will become more regional, less global. * Jerusalem Post fires columnist for saying Palestinians "justified" in attacking Israelis, their occupiers. * Bonn,
Dalai Lama, His Holiness of Tibet Until early 1960, I had some interest in photography, but not since then. Of course, I still love different flowers. And occasionally I do some manual work, some repair work, of watches and small instruments. Richard Nixon, Former President [Bikram] Choudhury said he was
Don’t be fooled by the hand-lettering trend in movie posters and book covers—cursive is dead. Who cares? A million angry commenters around the web who extol the virtues of loops and curls. But the traditional form has a history that’s less than precious.
* Citing burden on doctors, judge blocks Texas abortion law requiring women to view sonograms. * Former 9/11 Commission heads report airports are still unlikely to detect explosives on passengers. * Hunters do their part to stop the spread of wild pigs by releasing pigs into the wild to later hunt. * Zabar&
* Comparing violence in Iraq and Chicago, Kanye forgets civilian casualties (though Chicago's still dangerous). * BBC News debunks five Sept. 11 conspiracy theories. * California mulls banning Styrofoam containers starting in 2016. * Windows's iconic "bliss" wallpaper is a real photo, taken by Charles O’Rear in
Emily Yoffe, author of Slate’s thoroughly enjoyable “Dear Prudence,” summed it up nicely: “Judaism is a religion that focuses on justice in this world. It’s not so much focused on the rewards of the next life, but about how to live in this life. Maybe that’s why
With the U.S. military engaged in multiple battles around the world, it’s time to revisit that haunting classic of war and steel-drum cinema, “Apocalypso Now.”
* Chinese parents incensed at demolition of unsanctioned schools—and the high-rises that replaced them. * Ai Weiwei blasts Beijing, where one of the only positives is that people still give birth to babies. * If terrorist methods are as widely available as automobiles, why are there so few Islamist terrorists? * Chronic fatigue
* Irene can't be pinned on global warming, but more events like Irene should be expected in a warming world. * Hotels preserve chairs and tables during hurricanes by tossing them in the pool. * Rivka Galchen's fabulous 2009 Harper's essay on the quest to control hurricanes.
Detective Chief Inspector James Harold Japp, portrayed by Philip Jackson in the long-running Poirot series, is my favorite. He goes into every new adventure believing he’ll finally one-up the Belgian penguin, but always loses. Still he maintains his humor and indulges Poirot’s whims. I can’t remember the
Confessionals are designed to draw the penitent into soul-searching. The spaces themselves are bare, but our knowledge of their function can make viewing more complicated.
* Flooding from Irene devastates portions of upstate New York, Vermont, submerging several small towns. * Waiting out the storm in a school gym. * Libyan rebels resist Western pressure, say they won't extradite Lockerbie bomber. * Top Gun proves we vote at the box office—Bigelow's upcoming bin Laden
* Latest updates on Hurricane Irene. * Extraordinary chronicle of an "ordinary" day in Mexico's drug wars—cause of 43,000 homicides since 2006. * Former Mexican President Fox suggests truce, amnesty, legalization. * If one of my employees started smoking crack I'd confiscate his gun and kick
* Attractive Irene tracker from the Times. * South Africa's police vow to stop high rate of cops being killed; population terrified of killer cops. * Men torch casino in Mexico, killing 53; worst attack in five years of anti-gang policing. * Recent history of MI6 and Gadhafi's relationship, conducted
The state fair puts on display the usual cornucopia of wonders both natural and synthetic, all ready for your sampling. A young man gets in touch with his appetite.
* The MLK Memorial opening has been postponed—not that King wanted it in the first place. * On the nature of memory, historical and structural amnesia, and society's humiliated silence. * New Rimbaud translations confirm the poet as an enduring obsession for all rebels, e.g., Ashbery. * In 1861 a
* Trinidad and Tobago declares national emergency—and imposes curfew—to halt drug-related crime. * Virginia's unique Tangier Island, in Irene's path, is mere inches above the water surrounding it. * Kim Jong-il visits Russia to bolster image of his heir. * Slideshow demonstrations evolution of Steve Jobs's
The cute guy had come to my previous class, and placed his mat directly across from mine. He had hooded lids, a football team captain’s smile and a strong athletic build. Not my type, but still. He looked so familiar, actually, that I accidentally made meaningful eye contact while
New York’s Hudson Valley has long been haunted—by headless horsemen, and living terrors, too. In the hills between Poughkeepsie and Albany existed a clan of artisans known for their semi-wild existence—and for being a real-life connection to the region’s supernatural past.
* Despite GOP protests, data models show the stimulus worked, though it may not kill the sound bite. * Records show the corporations that win Texas state dollars are the ones that donate to Perry campaigns. * Discovered in Gadhafi's compound: a photo album filled with pictures of Condoleezza Rice. * He
* "Warning: Step Away from Military Activities": Images of NATO flyers dropped on Tripoli. * London professor, Libyan mentor, and prosecutor discuss Saif Gadhafi's fate. * List of high-profile island owners. * Pro-shoplifting argument as a temporary boost for the economy. * Explainer for how Hugo Chávez might transport (and insure)
I’m in Brooklyn this week. It’s my 138th trip to New York in the past 13 years. For the first 135 trips I was in Manhattan, mostly on 9th St. near Sixth Avenue in a brownstone with studio apartments the owner rented per night, a place I first
Poetry can provide solace. It can also remind people to quit freaking out. Poems selected for Congress, nervous shoppers, Maureen Dowd, and the President of the United States.
* Following earthquake, National Mall landmarks temporarily closed—MLK Memorial still set to open this weekend. * Why the MLK Memorial took so long: A law governs limits on the number of National Mall structures. * "Deep Throat" garage in Northern Virginia gets its historical marker. * Remembering the 12 "Original
* Puerto Rico declares emergency after Irene; storm could be Category 3 when it reaches the U.S. Saturday. * Controlled glimpse in Syria. * Careful work inside led to Tripoli's capture. * With Gadhafi falling and Strauss-Kahn's charges being dropped, BHL is having the best week ever. * Critique of
The more I read about the Eurozone sovereign debt crisis, the more I worry. It’s unclear though whether I worry more because I’m learning more about the scale of the problem, or if reading about it is, in and of itself, making me unnecessarily anxious. Politicians offer me
* Looking for policy hints in Perry's 2010 book. * Original source of hair gel found in Egypt, 5,000 miles from New Jersey. * A look inside the head of a komodo dragon. * Photographer sets out to prove our fear of sharks is overstated, shoots without a cage. * When people
Some people keep notebooks. Others keep lists. One type wants to remember; the other wants to forget. What’s not clear is who’s happier for all the scribbling. Confessions of a list-aholic.
* Europe wrestles with debt crises; sub-Saharan Africa sees robust growth—a study of two zones. * Dreams in Buenos Aires for poor kids: playing soccer, or joining the violent gangs that run the game. * New biography says Chanel worked for Nazi intelligence—not as a spy, but a facilitator. * People from
Sheryl Crow and Bob Dylan “I called [Bob Dylan]…I said, ‘I am totally wigged out and I don’t know what I’m supposed to be doing, and I’ve got a lot of pressure to incorporate what’s going on.’ He said, ‘Go back to your roots. Take
Portraits and interviews from a new book that showcase the Korean diaspora, from novelists and athletes to actors and retirees.
* From February to August, photos from each month of the battle for Libya. * Guardian report finds Prince Charles's social and environmental charities have crossed into politics. * Texas's numbers are as good as they look—whether Perry deserves credit is another argument. * More numbers from Texas: Rick
* Libyan uprising showing signs of sliding from anti-autocrat to factional conflict. * India's parliament is a functioning anarchy, with chaos and disruption used to stall opponents. * GDP change since the recession shows how Europe is being caught by developing nations. * Decades-old peace between Israel and Egypt threatened following border
* Tracking high school students preparing for the gaokao, China's national exams. * Video: Distribution of American post offices, 1700-1900. * New York store that sells only fancy umbrellas—$38 to $995—has begun phasing out the $38 models. * Story behind archivists restoring nine films Hitchcock directed in the 1920s. * New
The long-running Morse series was good. Sometimes great. Thaw (1942-2002) carried Morse’s hunched shoulders with a lot of style, and the episodes, based on Colin Dexter’s plots, were tight and surprising. I'll recommend all seasons—even the "Morse Goes Abroad" episodes. The show was
Political candidates who want to burn down Washington, DC, perhaps should see what a country looks like with no effective government.
* Convicted UK rioters receiving 25% longer sentences—one got four years for inciting violence on Facebook. * U.S. to review 300,000 illegal immigrant cases, dismiss deportation for those who pose no threat. * Libya's DC embassy reopens under TNC, who wants to unfreeze Gadhafi's assets, purchase
* UN indicts Hezbollah for assassination of Lebanon's Hariri. * Life in Ethiopia is not all famine. * Recent statistics about American drinking: wine ties beer. * According to studies, weed doesn't make you stupid, but may improve your imaginative powers. * New interpretive system Veritas turns sentences blue when they&
“Tell us a little about yourself.” Gulp. I stared at the blinking cursor, writing phrases only to erase them. I could not shake the thought that my answers were meant to lure potential dating partners, that this was a marketing document of sorts. Pick ME! Love ME! I answered all
From 2011, knowing the history of the phrase “going postal” helps us understand how America exports killing sprees to angry young men worldwide.
* Defense Dept. report finds Army did not properly test body armor, may have substandard field protection. * Downgraded by Fitch, New Jersey's credit is now the third-worst in the U.S., ahead of California and Illinois. * Capybara, the world's largest rodent, is now roaming California's
Case one: Speculation regarding France’s creditworthiness last week led to French shares losing 15 percent of their value. Something was responsible for fears of French exposure to Eurozone debt. NPR traced the possible source of the rumors to the Mail on Sunday, which published a piece questioning the liquidity
* President Bachmann's foreign policy. * For desk-bound Sherlocks, a real-life Australian beach mystery from 1948, "one of the world’s most perplexing cold cases." * Mid-week short fiction: "Village 113," from TMN contributor Anthony Doerr's award-winning Memory Wall. * Color of the sky right now
Just when companionship is the last thing you want at the hair salon, in walks Barry—who frankly couldn’t give two licks what you want.
* Local flavor may be lost as agricultural pageants become a path to Miss America. * Original Village People lead singer disputes work-for-hire claim, seeks rights to "Y.M.C.A." * WSJ: "Abercrombie and Fitch offers to pay 'The Situation' to stop wearing its clothes." * In
As Borders liquidates its merchandise, a former employee of store #21 looks back at a glorious workplace—of quirky managers, Borders gypsies, the odyssey to stack more than Hobby/Collectibles—and the moment when salvation seemed at hand to save the chain.
* The past 10 years have seen fewer war deaths than any decade in the last 100 years. * Al Jazeera live blogs Mubarak's trial. * Whether Kenya's famine could have been avoided. * About one year ago, $5.6 billion was pledged to relief in Haiti; one-third has been
Maybe you’ll work on a railroad and then become a famous writer. Or maybe you’ll be a prostitute and then create a TV show. Or maybe you’ll buy a car alarm company and run for Congress. You just never know, man. Nicholson Baker By then Baker already
* Holding elections and building commerce, shadow nations threaten to destabilize their neighbors. * Next big UN assembly announcement to come from Russia, which plans to annex 380,000 square miles of the Arctic Ocean. * After years of looking for cancer clues in 2% of the genome, researchers find the rest holds
* China pours billions into Africa, and billions go straight into private pockets. * Warren Buffett: Thank you, Congress, for all the tax breaks, but we super rich are sick of lower job creation. * Historian known for making dumb remarks on TV blames London riots on English whites going Jamaican black. * Elif
My dad is an OB/GYN, and when I was growing up, this meant all my friends thought I must therefore have some secret insider knowledge about human coitus. While it’s true I knew the birds and the bees by age two, I didn’t lose my training wheels
* What it's like to lose to Rick Perry. * Herman Cain is a fan of Pokemon: The Movie 2000—or its inspirational theme music. * Rembrandt drawing swiped in a "carefully planned heist" at a Marina del Rey Ritz-Carlton. * Legal analysis of the case against a New Jersey
Manmade light is normally considered pollution before it's thought of as beautiful. A series of luscious portraits of Earth’s brightest hotspots.
* Blatant hypocrisy of Western censorship on web is ruinous to promoting democracy abroad. * Bay Area Rapid Transit "pulls an Egypt," turns off cell service to preempt protest. * Xinhua news agency delights in reporting on Cameron's (improbable) plans to censor the web. * Once the looters had left
* Vacationing Times-Picayune reporter busts Zabar's for selling crawfish as lobster salad. * How Roy Scherer became Rock Hudson and changed a generation's view of sexuality, twice. * Water bottlers find success targeting minorities. * Homeowners seeking originality plant bottle trees, the "modern pink flamingo." * Amazon.co.uk
My wife and I are vacationing at my family’s house on the Pamlico River near Bath, North Carolina, a coastal farming town of several hundred people, where Blackbeard supposedly anchored ship on a regular basis and buried treasures. It takes a dirt road to make it to our house.
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, we show you how a well-chosen nickname can bend your mate’s will.
* Pulling support for Syria, Saudi Arabia may doom the regime, prove ability to make or break others. * Unlike London, schools burned in Paris—both "dancing on volcano" of social injustice. * Never has the world economy depended so much on the success of developing nations. * Germans aren't
* The weight discrimination we observe in the labor market has its source in...the marriage market. * Anticipating a marriage, let the word games begin. * A brief story by Lionel Shriver about housing and marriage. * Erica Heller—who's never read Catch-22—and others write about life as the cub
Except I usually don’t do any of that. I just feel the flutter in my heart, and wonder why this person, of all people, made it happen. Brown-Eyed Charmer of Indiscriminate Ethnicity I dated this guy in college who was half-Mexican, half-German. I was nuts about him, and he
Sisters are like ships—passing in the night, traveling as allies, or attacking one another with every gun and cannon. Sisterhood, however, is ultimately about unity.
* East Africa famine yet to peak, hundreds of thousands of people face starvation. * State Dept. indirectly intervenes in Somalia, financing mercenaries to train troops. * EDIT CONPLAN 3502 is the U.S. military's plan for assisting state and local authorities in the event of a riot. * Polish, Turkish, Somalian,
* An environmental group finds the Hudson is "chronically sewage-laden" around Albany. * A Hill lobbyist asks: How can I professionally lobby someone I personally rejected? * Study: People in unfriendly working situations more likely to die early. * When you leave the relative safety of the middle class, you might as
My friend, however, was unimpressed. “It’s 2011. Everyone has tattoos,” he said. He’s right, I realized, and now I will forever have this little feather on my ankle. At least I’m not alone. Marc Jacobs, Designer Jacobs has the word “perfect” tattooed on his right wrist. “Because
Fortunetelling is easy to ridicule, frequently misunderstood, and, for some people, extremely powerful. Unfortunately, what’s very tough to predict is what reading futures will do to the person with the cards.
* With many institutions broken, perhaps Britain's leaders can no longer protect the people. * Stereotyping rioters as young, black, and poor, ignores the complexity of who they really are. * Round-up of sociological and psychological explanation of riots. * The Endless Summer reminds us of perfection's potential in an
He is taking a seaside view of the crisis, says the Financial Times, noting that Italian economic policy is “in effect being dictated from outside as Italy becomes the latest front line in the battle to save the euro from the sovereign debt crisis.” Chancellor Merkel is on vacation, taking
* Chait: Westen's complaint against Obama is rooted primarily in a lack of factual understanding of what Obama has done. * NASA says it's found a spacecraft, lost since 1967, on the dark side of the moon. * Cataloging the things we've left in space, e.g.
* Riots liveblog: British Parliament recalled, 16,000 police on streets tonight, but no army or curfew. * Young London rioters lack a legitimate future—nothing to lose, no reason to obey. * Watching the riots, Egyptian bloggers debate the differences between looting and protesting. * Riots organized not through social media, but on
From 2011, an ode to the pleasures of vulgarity, in which a bookseller tries to give every customer one unsafe moment. And, yes—that’s what she said.
* Grim outlook for the U.S. economy, with high odds for a double dip—and it's all our politicians' fault. * With his positions largely unknown, Obama stared into the eyes of history and averted his gaze. * Police threaten to arrest people inciting violence in London via Twitter.
Here are 10 things I learned—not necessarily directly—from planning my own wedding that don’t seem to get addressed much in the bridezillasphere. 1. If you really want cash, don’t register for gifts. Enlist your parents and siblings to help spread the word in a low-key way.
On the outskirts of a Ghana slum, young people work in toxic conditions to extract metal from melted-down computers—technology that we've discarded, and shipped elsewhere for the dirty work of recycling.
* A U.S. ban on conflict minerals has helped the Congolese warlords it intended to depose. * Researchers find that birds abused as chicks grow up to abuse others. * In Chile, anti-government protestors accuse rescued miners of selling out, throw fruit. * After 12 years of diminished hauls, Long Island lobstermen either
* After ferocious assault, Syria claims to have put down revolt in Hama, hundreds of civilians feared dead. * Standard and Poor's math mistake miscalculated debt projection by $2 trillion. * Timely Kickstarter project: "Is Capitalism Working for You," interactive public art strapped to a truck. * Five-star hotel opens
* New York bank soon to start charging negative interest, or fees to hold your cash. * Video: A trip to the wilds of Brooklyn, where the bodega cat reigns supreme. * Air France reportedly staffs Paris-bound Strauss-Kahn flight with all-male cabin crew. * Internal Stasi photos shows masters--and sometimes apprentices--of disguise at work.
He’s passionate. Sympathetically self-destructive. And a lover. What a lover. Baby, he’ll break down your bathroom door. Then again, not to love Indira Varma is a clinical indication of mental trauma. Still, Luther goes too far with love, too. Shame that Luther has such shitty cover art in
* Chinese parents whose children were kidnapped by government-sanctioned officials find little justice. * Feds may have let Sinaloa cartel move cocaine into the U.S. in exchange for information on rivals. * Tale of sidekick's botched escape from New York-Albanian mob, recently exploded by police. * New images provide the strongest
When I collapsed in public two weeks ago, I could hear everything happening around me, but could barely respond. Making sense of it all was even more difficult.
* Mogadishu included among three new regions added to Somalia's famine. * Gadhafi's son forging an alliance with radical Islamists within Libya's rebels. * Our generation's new collective goal—health—is futile considering the likelihood of, you know, death. * Lesbian couple saved 40 kids from
The USDA recently replaced the almighty food pyramid with a color-coded pie chart. To celebrate our nation’s mixed metaphors about healthy eating, one man decides to spend a month attempting to follow every government recommendation he can find. Nowhere is pie advised.
* Explaining the moon's variable terrain and lopsidedness, scientists say it may once have been two moons. * Quora users collect "some of the most important, iconic, and/or beautiful scientific images." * Texas drought drops lake levels enough to uncover new Columbia wreckage. * Interview with an Amarillo church
Here’s what’s at stake should the economic crisis worsen: welfare states will cut deeper and inflict more austerity measures; there will be a weaker European voice on the world stage; and most importantly, Europe will drift further to the right, into the laps of Europe’s populist far-right
Gene Sharp, Intellectual In this era of Twitter revolutionaries, the Internet holds little allure for Mr. Sharp. He is not on Facebook and does not venture onto the Einstein website. (“I should,” he said apologetically.) If he must send e-mail, he consults a handwritten note [his assistant] Ms. Raqib has
* Op: We've always tried to fight invasive species, but they have an important environmental role. * Scientists tempt bees with food, shake them in a box, conclude they may have feelings. * Famous resignations. * Beyond the fake Apple Store, shoppers in China visit knockoff Ikeas, Dairy Queens, and Subways. * Illustrators
Frequent readers of The Morning News will have noticed that, since last month’s relaunch, we’ve introduced something new into our regular publishing schedule: short columns by a handful of writers, each focused on a single subject over the course of a few installments. Here’s our current rotation:
* Saudi lawmakers create "blistering array" of punishments for anyone "harming the interests of the state." * Tennessee introduces bill to punish "material support" for Islamic law. * Italy calls emergency talks as market pressure sucks it deeper into euro danger zone. * Novelist Richard Powers reports from
9:27 p.m. Driving the back roads from the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, where the Bulls beat the Gwinnett Braves 4-0 behind a masterful performance by ace prospect pitcher Matt Moore, to our home 25 miles away, I’m listening to local sports radio 99.9 FM. The UNC
* British women determine Pippa Middleton's "Royal Mocha" skin tone to be "most desirable" of all shades. * Fighting in Afghanistan, Ivory Coast, Chad, and Libya, France's military feared to be stretched too thin. * North Korea eager to resume six-party talks, "without preconditions,
* An overview of differing opinions on whether it's time to rename "Ground Zero." * Getting bin Laden: From a presidential candidate's lips to a house in Abbottabad, how the operation unfolded. * Forty years after the only unsolved hijacking in U.S. history, new clues surface
Language students rely on local television shows for vocabulary and instruction. But not all Three’s Company remakes should be trusted. Surveying Israeli TV from Orthodox Jewish sitcoms to comedy that equally offends Jews, Arabs, and sheep.
The post-post-apocalyptic cityscape will see houses built in hammocks, and neighborhoods bound by chains. If you’ve ever felt that urban living depends on a wing and a prayer, welcome home.
He was a small, skinny guy—dark hair, nice smile, wore those black jeans and mock turtlenecks we all put our faith in during the mid-’90s. I’m not even sure what drew me to him in the first place, except his interviews with celebrities were disarming and hilariously
* The winning entry for the Guardian's "rename the endangered fungus" contest: "Hotlips." * A half-ton fungus found in a Chinese forest shatters the record for the world's largest. * Second Life equine intellectual property dispute reaches real-life courtroom. * Ben Franklin's doctor experimented
* "More disgusted than delighted," Obama sells compromise to liberals. * Rallying votes, Boehner thanks Tea Party newbies for getting GOP's priorities to the finish line. * The debt-ceiling deal "is a catastrophe on multiple levels," for Democrats and the country. * Smaller-government fans triumph. * American-embassy design hampered
* Fleeing famine, Somalia family deals with lion attack, rape, death--religion is problem, salvation. * To be judged insane would exonerate [Breivik] from responsibility for his actions, as if madness and responsibility were mutually exclusive. * The state of foreign policy debate among Republican presidential contenders reveals total disarray. * Turkey's entire
All your life, you thought you just had an odd-looking little mole. From 2011, what it’s like when a doctor says that you belong in the ranks of Marky Mark, centuries of witches, and Krusty the Clown.
The ’90s for me were more Lollapalooza than Nickelodeon, so I’ve never actually seen Clarissa Explains It All, but whatever. That pop-culture nostalgia reminds me of another quintessential ’90s meme: “What would Jesus do?” The thing is, I had no idea: I was raised Jewish. Most of what I
* After being closed for five months, some Libyan schools try to reopen amidst warfare. * Biologist who warned of polar bears dying from exhaustion accused of scientific misconduct. * If a cougar can walk from South Dakota to Connecticut, it can walk to your house, and that's a good kind
* Mystery surrounds killing of Libyan rebels' military chief. * Gawker report on Miami Catholic Archdiocese's "long orgy of sodomy and illicit cash." * Europe and U.S. go Japanese. * Debt crisis is actually worse than we realize—2020, when a big generation retires, will be nightmarish. * Lucid
* Mubarak's trial, for corruption and ordering the killing of protesters, to proceed next week in Cairo. * Lessons from Iraq: If you have an hour to save the world, spend 55 minutes understanding the problem. * Chart: Top 12 African countries by GDP. * Comparing Big Mac prices finds Chinese yuan
* Human rights group says Syrian protestors are being disappeared at a rate of one every hour. * When the West outsources surrogacy to India, surrogates face personal loss, social ire. * Foreign Policy asks experts to look at history and decide: Is this the worst Congress ever? * Little, Brown stirs controversy, publicity
Little things people say can get stuck in your brain and become triggers, forcing you to relive moments you’d rather forget. Well, for aspiring linguists, it’s much, much worse.
* Senegal releases rapper after arrest for opposing president's re-election campaign. * Accounting for how Mexican cartels got guns from U.S. attempt to track them getting guns. * Audio: Corruption continues to swamp South Africa. * Nice career chronicle from new British caretaker of Monet's lily pond. * Explorer'
I though it was a beautiful combination, but the sartorial law quickly taught me that my body could not necessarily be draped in my whims. It was important lesson: Even if you don’t care about fashion, other people do, and they will judge you accordingly. Hillary Clinton, Secretary of
* As rebels snatch up Gadhafi's anti-aircraft missiles, groups seek to prevent them from falling into terrorist hands. * Officially recognizing opposition, UK expels Gadhafi diplomats. * Republican leaders voted for debt drivers. * Bribe-hungry Nigerian cops threaten mental exams for drivers--who aren't easily intimidated. * Video: Israeli Chamber Orchestra breaks
Summer is reading's high season. But all good books must come to an end, and then what do you do? Have no fear—the Biblioracle is here. Discover your next favorite novel today, from 2-3:00 p.m. ET.
* As businesses shun the jobless in help-wanteds, the unemployed outlook gets bleaker, and states consider legislation. * With states hoping to save millions by changing primary dates, Republicans rethink where to pour resources. * Commonplace in politics, pledges to uphold special interests handcuff decision making, foreshadow embarrassments. * When overdubbing in Arabic, the
* New exit solution for Gadhafi may leave him residing in Libya. * LA citizens keep mum about chopper swarms, fearing operators will hover above their houses for revenge. * House finds new solution for debt-ceiling crisis: a "super" committee. * Op: Many conservatives would prefer economic havoc to more 20th-century “welfare
From coast to coast, through bickering passengers and aggressive tumbleweeds, we've crisscrossed the U.S.--and often ended up in New York. For your next road trip, a guide to what you'll see along the way.
“Congratulations!” he writes back. “No, it’s the worst,” I respond. “I can’t concentrate. I’m being weird. It’s awful.” I sighed when people said his name. I had taken to needlessly applying lip gloss before I got my morning coffee and again when I stopped by for
* Op: Our nation now governs by deadlines, which is no way to get anything done. * Conservatives respond to Borders closing. * Electricity-saving Japanese beat the heat with cooling foams, tank tops for dogs. * Turntable.fm's top DJs. * Descendant of Lizst and Wagner talks religion, Bayreuth, and her favorite ancestor.
The owners of exotic or unconventional pets in Alex Arzt’s “Human-Animal” photographs range from nurturing to obsessive. Challenging our assumptions about the human and animal worlds, Arzt’s work reminds us that ownership of other species is a uniquely human trait.
* Norwegian accused of killing spree laced manifesto with quotes by counterjihad bloggers. * Blogger responds: "If anything incited him to violence, it was Euro-Med policy." * Chilling round-up of online clues to accused killer's motivations. * Eyewitness account of the island attack. * Profile of America's homegrown terrorism
Following an emergency meeting of Eurozone countries on July 21, a “Marshall Plan” for Europe was announced and a virtual European International Monetary Fund created. A Marshall Plan for a peacetime crisis of Europe’s own making indicates just how wrong things went. Calling it a Marshall Plan in a
* At least 91 killed in Norway attacks; man charged is right-wing Christian fundamentalist. * More than 84 deaths came in shooting spree at island summer camp near Oslo, where many fled into the water. * Nuclear scientist who survived assassination attempt in Tehran is leading acceleration of nuclear fuel production. * Thorough but
* Videos of the aftermath from today's bombing in Oslo. * Extremely captivating: Yemen on the brink of hell. * Report on the taboo issue of men being raped as a weapon of wartime aggression. * Joseph Heller, Robert Gottlieb, Candida Donadio, and how Catch-22 came about. * Terrific visualization of the United
Tao Lin and his band of followers at Muumuu House are some of the most vehemently disliked—and discussed—writers on the internet. Critics call them hip. Haters call them frauds. But their fiction may be just what our digital lives deserve.
* A sewage treatment plant catches fire in New York, mIllions of gallons of untreated sewage flow into the city's rivers. * More than 1% of all U.S. high temperature records were broken during yesterday's heat. * Can the grid handle a heat wave of this magnitude? * With
3:06 a.m. I wake up, flip on my bedside transistor to see what they are talking about on WFAN 660 AM out of New York City. I’m in rural Chatham County, NC, with three acres, heavy woods with eight kinds of trees, and a creek. Crickets, cicadas,
Florida is America’s most-abused state, and Tallahassee its biggest target for bi-coastal writers who pick low-hanging fruit—rednecks, old people—and wouldn’t know an alligator from their elbow. The slander has gone far enough. On behalf of every Tallahussey and T-Town man, let the corrections begin
Many other things we do extremely well in this golden age of the small screen. Novelists with epaulets are signing up to bang out series. David Foster Wallace thought the best writing currently done in America was for The Wire. Watching approximately 12 hours a week of great TV, I
* Lack of coordination, rivalries threaten Libyan rebels' goal of toppling Gadhafi. * Minister hopes London factions can reconcile differences over who gets to wear pearl buttons. * TSA to introduce new scanner software that shows hidden objects, but not naked passengers. * How an occult philosophy could be the missing piece in
* Famine declared in southern Somalia, where child malnutrition rate can soar to 55%. * Former Chilean President Allende's corpse confirms official story: suicide, not murder. * Surprise snowstorm leaves Chile blanketed under "white earthquake." * Egypt's oldest political prisoner speaks. * Who and where are America's
Our man in Boston and Jim Shepard, the author most recently of You Think That's Bad, discuss whacko projects, researching short stories by jet, and how much gold it takes for a writer to dump Knopf's Gary Fisketjon.
Ciuraru has written for the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Boston Globe, the Wall Street Journal, and other publications. She has also edited anthologies of poetry for Alfred A. Knopf/Everyman’s Library and Scribner. TMN: What drew you to the topic of
* Climate change arguments from 1799. * Signs welcome all to a DC-area yard sale "except for LGBT people, illegal immigrants, and muslims." * How a series of dots and a memory stick spawned a game with all the markers of a holy war. * Photos from inside China's fake
* Two years later, Afghans pay twice as much in bribes; Karzai, lacking power base, turns cheek. * Accessible survey of Eurozone economic solutions, with "haircuts" and "hoses." * Ezra Klein on the Gang of Six debt plan: probably the best we'll get. * The Go6 plan is
Photographs that ask why romantic relationships should look the same. For example, why can’t one partner be a piece of homemade sushi?
Pearl I, II, and III, Shorthaired Pointers [Robert Parker] preferred staying in and watching baseball games with his German shorthaired pointer, Pearl. Mr. Parker had three German shorthairs named Pearl; when one Pearl died, he replaced it with another. Shit, Breed Unknown Molly Ivins: “The thing that amazes me about
* Far-right Jobbik party cheers, Weisenthal Center cries foul at Hungarian's acquittal in 1942 massacre. * Ben Judah interviews Roma king. * Disagreeing with UK lawmakers, committee says nudges won't change people's habits, but laws will. * Psychologists argue against childproofed playgrounds, claim bruises are a part of
* Murdochs and Rebecca Brooks to face three hours of parliamentary questioning today. * Phone-hacking scandal now being investigated by 10 separate inquiries. * Global survey of tabloid newspapers' power—means to further political aims, not to make money. * Website answers one question, "Is David Cameron still prime minister?" * Lehrer:
Though you can still count on it for antibiotic-free cheese, the farmers' market has become a macrocosm of first-world food neuroses. True stories from behind the rustic wax-paper-lined baskets.
OK, so my gay BFF in high school didn’t really fit the stereotype, except that he did always give excellent advice. But it wasn’t just the advice I valued, but the source. As a teenage girl—the most cutthroat species of information broker on the planet—I thought
* France wrestles with its latest Anglo import, "le binge drinking," bans nighttime alcohol sales. * Recalling empty weekend subways. * Owning a dog in Iran means paying smugglers to break a fatwa--and taking your pooch for unseen walks. * As Coney Island undergoes a family-friendly makeover, some businesses are being pushed
* Opposition in Yemen manages big protest turnout, but its position is weak, and government remains leaderless. * North Korea said to "purge" 30 officials involved in secret inter-Korean talks. * Court upholds constitutionality of TSA body scanners. * Aircraft for movies billed by the hour; F-22s run $25,000 for 60
* U.S. formally recognizes rebels as Libya's legitimate authority, $30 billion in frozen assets could be released. * Largest protests so far in Syria sees a million protest, opposition groups will meet to draw a roadmap. * Italy fared better than only Haiti and Zimbabwe in growth last decade, nepotism
Pet people and non-pet people are different breeds for whom inter-species communication can be impossible. Then along comes the ugliest dog in the world. A study of one heart’s redoing.
My explanation was pathetic. Being so close to Europe in my heart and so heavily invested in all of it in my relationship, my work, and my future, it’s time to wise up and measure the doom. From what I’ve parsed so far, everyone’s eager to avoid
* Wireless carriers hope to increase usage by building smart diapers, slippers, bovine fertility monitors. * The deceptive simplicity of feedback loops, now ever more present through plunging technology costs. * Researchers find baboon beta males enjoy fewer mates, lower stress. * Indonesian scientists spot long-legged Borneo rainbow toad, last seen almost 90 years
* Demonstrations intensify in Syria; in three months, more than 2,000 soldiers have deserted. * Gradual fall of Libya and Syria's leaders shows Arab world's mood changing irrevocably. * Ezra Klein on the Reid-McConnell debt deal, which the White House considers a last resort. * Op: If you think
* Website analysis shows spelling mistakes can halve sales--wary customers suspect phishing schemes. * You're more likely to survive a plane crash than click on a banner ad. * Talking to Berklee students, John Mayer warns against online self-promotion when there's still music to be made. * Jobless benefits will
Five years in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Several violent attacks—in other cities. A daily attempt to be the best, which is never a good idea. Nine lessons from a mini-lifetime in the Big Apple.
* U.S. recording biometric information of people in Afghanistan and Iraq, particularly men of fighting age. * Japan's Prime Minister calls for end to country's reliance on nuclear power. * Survey of five countries rethinking nuclear; 80% of Mexico in opposition. * Duke Ellington's favorite foods. * Ghana
The Terrorist Diet [In Afghanistan, Osama bin Laden] no longer slaughtered a lamb every day to serve his guests; now he rarely ate meat, preferring to live on dates, milk, yoghurt and flatbread. The Founding Father Diet As well as saying that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,
In a small town with a withering economy, rebellion is choosing college over your job at the X-rated drive-in.
Bob from Brooklyn is the voice of reason: “Hey, Tone, this Derek Jeter controversy is a reflection of our society. You know, there’s gotta be a story every 10 minutes. Jeter gets hurt, the Yankees win without him, and all of a sudden he’s a bum. It’s
* A new book reveals Hitler's plan to rebuild the Reich should his empire fall--complete with talking dogs. * A Spielberg letter about Indiana Jones casting. * A victim's daughter and a boss's son stand up to the mafia in Naples, where "the system" runs
* White House turns against Syria's Assad, stopping short of demanding he step down. * Human Rights Watch urges Obama, with "overwhelming evidence," to investigate torture sanctioned by Bush & Co. * Blood phones: Minerals in your pocket perpetuate war in the DRC. * Ehrenreich: As wars become fought entirely
* On the trail of bin Laden, CIA set up fake vaccinations to gather DNA evidence. * Harvard grads at the top of everything, except in Canada. * Things state flags are sometimes saying. * First known for designing Central Park, Olmsted became famous for his Civil War reportage on Southern life. * Polar bears&
Allan Seager was a student at Oxford when he contracted tuberculosis. What happened next made him one of America's greatest writers—declared the heir to Anderson and Hemingway—ever to be forgotten. Yet one of Seager's short stories endures in ways that none of Hemingway's can match.
* Paris says Gadhafi's emissaries are suggesting the dictator is ready to leave. * Gordon Brown hacked by journalists for more than 10 years, with privacy invasions from conmen and "blaggers." * Brown: If European growth continues to run so far behind, by midcentury it may be as small
When it comes to in-vitro fertilization, nothing is normal. Your world is upside-down. Your doctor compliments your wife on her monkeys. Then, when every dollar and exertion has gone toward a single hour of hope, it begins to snow.
* Belarus arrests deaf-mute for shouting anti-gov't slogans and a one-armed man for clapping along. * Bands touring this summer want fans to calm down. * Naomi Wolf accidentally kills the messenger—dopamine—in dissection of porn's effect on brains. * Foreign Policy predicts who will be advising 2012 candidates
America adores its clichés about French culture—skinny women, hot sex, and "surrender monkeys." But the Mali intervention shows France in a different light. From 2011, an appreciation for France's history of conquering and oppressing the world.
Even then, better to ignore the reasons than enter months of mockups, head-to-wall banging, interminable revisions, and the inevitable trip to the Genius Bar, bruised laptop in hand. Instead, we peered into the safety of our phones and—why not—loaded up our site. We zoomed in to read a
* Writer of Syrian revolution's theme song believed to be killed. * Niemann unveils world map, with slight New York bias, of useless stereotypes. * Google wins image points in Japan for post-quake tools. * Steve Wynn wins points for spending $13 million on vases and restoring them to China (in his
Anthropologist requests access to Shakespeare's grave to, among other things, ascertain if he was a pothead. Americans didn't win total independence: There's no getting rid of the weeds and grasses introduced by the first European settlers. Washington was not in a UFO cult. Let&
My college graduation speaker really did begin—and end—his speech with “Today is the first day of the rest of your lives.” Did he also tell us to be ourselves and follow our dreams? It’s possible, I don’t remember. Our speaker was boring, and he was also
Fact: Today’s young women are scared to commit because Mel Gibson may attack them. Fact: Today’s mothers should keep their opinions to themselves.
Though the party is divided on why to slam Obama for troop withdrawals, some Republicans are rediscovering their isolationist roots. Op: In light of recent Perry takedowns, accomplishments in office may not make a lick of difference. Does it mark them out as underdogs trying to overcome the liberal elite?
We live in the golden age of all-female tribute bands, from Sheagles and Blonde Jovi to AC/DShe and Cheap Chick. Here we present an anatomy of a scene, with Judas Priestess—from women who pioneered stoner/doom rock to teenagers playing Alice Cooper drum solos at Philadelphia's rock academy.
New Mexico wildfires three miles from Los Alamos, where low-level nuke waste is stored above-ground. Egypt's government getting by, running the economy "hand to mouth," with no real mandate. Satellite imagery of Arab unrest. Videos: Medvedev's SUV rolls away; Putin can't start
Space station crew prepared for impact with a piece of space garbage--one of thousands in orbit from previous missions. After 16 years of requiring large buildings to commission public art, Seoul is littered with eyesores. Texas town lays off its local police force over budgetary woes, braces for crime spike.
Taliban suicide bombers and gunmen attack landmark Afghan hotel, among Kabul's best-protected buildings. Tweets from Afghan journalists inside Hotel Intercontinental. Tabloid headlines for Wimbledon news and Murray mania. In symbolic move tied to Afghan drawdown, Pentagon employees shift from combat fatigues to battle dress uniforms. History of America&
Dodgers owner McCourt files for Chapter 11, snubbing Selig, who rejected a deal to pay for McCourt's divorce. Op: The Dodgers are rich in the fingers of Nancy Bea Hefley. How a forensic psychologist turned courtroom testimony into big business, severing families for financial gain. A look at
For the second time in history, single disease eradicated from Earth: rinderpest, or "cattle plague." Progress map of diabetes in adults finds rate doubling over 30 years. Op: GOP leaders goad Obama because they lack an endgame that isn't compromise or explode. "Strongman" seeking
Six states have now banned abortion at the 20th week, without exception but for the mother's death or disablement. Designed to curtail pet mills, proposed San Francisco ban on pet stores is back with a new name and strategy. "My father was the lead singer in the
These meticulous, stylized portraits have the visual lure of advertising, but they’re not selling anything, merely asking you to look.
Libyan rebels press for Tripoli while NATO's military operation enters 100th day. Briefing: Greece passes test, but disaster may loom as painful reforms attack fundamental problems. Citizens torch Naples with 55 fires, demanding garbage be removed. U.S. spends $20.2 billion annually on air conditioning in Afghanistan
Shoes, cars, T-shirts—it’s easy for people to become attached to favorite objects. But something is horribly wrong when a girl begins writing fan mail to her ring.
After the world's oddest job-interview questions, from companies like Citigroup and Facebook, were revealed, our writer decided to take all of them to prove he's hirable anywhere.
Zimbabwe general calls Tsvangiari a national threat, says he will die to keep Mugabe in office. Op: Obama sounds so much like Lincoln, he may as well grow a beard and buy the hat. A gentleman should take domestic politics slightly less seriously than backgammon. Arrest status of Mexican cartel
Nepal becomes the second Asian country declared free of minefields--though victims find the path to compensation blocked by red tape. Op: By maintaining instability--through continued opposition and international support--the Bahraini royal family ensures it remains in power. Indonesia stops sending maids to Saudi Arabia after the beheading of a domestic
Humor happens when an audience fills in the gaps--at its best, those gaps are packed layers deep with meaning. An explanation of an 18-word Mitch Hedberg joke.
Chinese artist Ai Weiei returns home "on bail," freed for "good attitude in confessing his crimes." Sexual violence remains widespread in U.S. prisons, though perpetrators are largely staff. North Carolina may compensate victims after its eugenics board sterilized nearly 7,600 from 1933-74. I was
Former U.S. political advisor returns to post-American Baghdad as a tourist, watches tennis, rides jet-ski. As Wimbledon bemoans female players' ever-loudening grunts, peruse video of the worst offenders. Car door slams, ATM whirrs, and other fake sounds; even more auditory shams. In a reversal of the Great Migration,
Bahrain sentences activists to life sentences in attempt to crush dissent. Obama's Afghanistan war wind-down speech will please neither stick-to-it generals nor flee-fast supporters. Sixty-three percent of Pakistanis disapprove of bin Laden's killing; more than half say it's "a bad thing" he&
A century ago food vendors were often confidence men, cutting their products with inedible substances. A study of the history of food adulteration reveals hucksters at every turn.
Less crack smoking, better number crunching, and other theories why U.S. crime has plummeted. Anthony Weiner, meet lawyer Patricia Boguslawski and urologist Richard Chopp. Mississippi Delta farmers begin tearing down their emergency, homemade levees. Former BP chief Hayward likely will be summoned to Texas to face a new lawsuit
Sanna Kannisto’s photographs go behind the scenes of the natural sciences. A test tube full of nectar enticing a bat to pose for the camera is as beautiful and instructive as any textbook image or documentary film.
First time in two months, Assad addresses Syria seeking "dialogue," and opposition groups convene. Assad's image pelted with shoes after speech. Polls show American voters still prejudiced against Mormon political candidates. Obama impersonator yanked offstage during GOP conference for racially insensitive material, or for mocking GOPers?
Taliban fighters who take Afghanistan's asylum offer require a security detail to survive in their new life. Health agencies find they can monitor a city's drug use by passively sampling its wastewater. KFC franchise to donate $1 to diabetes research for every "Mega Jug"
Nearly 200 of Obama's biggest backers obtained administration posts for themselves or their spouses. Putin spokesman zealously defends hiring former "Miss Moscow" finalist to join Putin's traveling photographers. Examples from Miss Moscow's photo portfolio. Design decisions made in 2006 by Twitter'
After a childhood in the country, awaking as a freshman in a college town, where the inhabitants are willing and strange.
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, we solve one of Earth's trickiest mysteries involving bats, balls, and scuttlewicks.
Syria summary: Too big for outsiders to intervene, yet Assad must not be allowed to murder. Resignation of Assad's reviled cousin seen as sacrifice to public fury. Afghan owners of the number 39--in phone numbers, license plates--mocked for being pimps. The figure seems to be looking at China.
Our man in Boston sits down with the extremely likeable Arthur Phillips to chat about everything, including his latest novel.
Even as the overall U.S. life expectancy is rising, in some counties it's leveling off--or dropping. With Medicaid dollars set to run out at the end of the month, a growing number of unemployed Americans face an uncertain future. With the Pentagon buying less, U.S. arms
White House says it doesn't need Congress's approval to support NATO in Libya. AP joins Journal and LA Times in calling conflict in Libya "civil war." D.C. politicians say golf patches fissures; Eisenhower played 100+ rounds a year during tenure. Alternative therapies lack
By ruling a gay judge didn't have to recuse himself from Prop 8 decision, district defends a judge's right to be objective. The Backfire Effect: When deeply held beliefs are rightly challenged, we cling to them even stronger. No Child Left Behind continues its rampage: Test
Athens protests turn violent, with gas bombs and tear gas exchanged. Palestinians to unveil new Hamas-Fatah unity government next Tuesday. Interesting U.S. project to deploy "shadow" internet/mobile phone systems to support dissidents and bypass censors. Op: Syrians are well versed in the history of foreign interference;
JPM/Chase CEO reaches "uncomfortable truths" by suggesting regulation, economic growth aren't concurrent. "Everybody doing some Dodd-Frank preparedness work?" Comedy club searches for America's funniest compliance officer. Navy captain urges vigilance for the safety of the crew returning from bin Laden burial.
America primarily knows China as a faraway giant, a country of industrialism and megalopolises somewhere over there. Shen Wei's monograph and series Chinese Sentiment gives us new views and brings the country closer, with more mystery and less smog. (Some images NSFW)
Americans unconvinced by Arab Spring; 45% say actions will not lead to lasting improvements. New al Qaeda leader round-up: Top 5 Leaders, With Pics! Gadhafi finds time for friendly chess match with World Chess Federation's head. New Yorker concludes what we've all agreed: Gadhafi is stoned
What to expect at tonight's GOP debate: Bachmann will interrupt, Gingrich will confuse, Paul will disappear, Pawlenty will chill. Another take: Tonight all the candidates will explain what they're not. Op: Lose college radio, and you risk building connections between students and townies. AJC compares hospital
Diners avoid E. coli through a lengthy chain of safety measures, or you can bleach your vegetables just to be sure. How Oakland investigative journalists collaborated to help convict the man who murdered a reporter. Since I'm an American, my flesh sells at a premium; if I had
When you are immigrating to a new country, it's not always clear which vowels you'll miss most. After six months of studying Hebrew in Tel Aviv, what it's like to discover you're illiterate.
European Union's highest court rules that France failed to protect the Great Hamster of Alsace. Note: U.S. currently running military operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Pakistan, and Yemen. Regional war, anyone? Pakistan confirms evidence of al Qaeda figures in military ranks. Hitchens: Each time the Pakistani leadership
Struggling against an economic downturn, Japanese laborers head to Fukushima in search of work. Klosterman on the quintessential sports underdog story: a team that started with five, ended with three, and won. Yosemite National Park prepares for summer visitors by blasting away the last remnants of winter. "Medicine freezes
Once again, our British explorer discusses the latest news with a talking dog while they investigate odd features of the English countryside. This week: iCloud and deadly mud pits.
Syria reported to UN's Security Council for covert nuke program. Italians look back on Berlusconi as a disastrous, even malign, failure; forget "Bunga Bunga," he screwed the whole country. CNN producer/reporter on why we should care about Yemen: location, location, location. Photos: Portraits of Russian
Mexican criminal groups building more armored monster vehicles. NATO calls on international community to prepare for a post-Gadhafi era. Chart: World's biggest military spenders. Zimbabwean police officer, in jail for using Mugabe's reserved toilet, faces day in court. UK gas company exec sneaks out of court
Foreign correspondents love to interview local cab drivers for their political opinions. Or sometimes just to hear the best jokes.
When politicians face the camera after a scandal, they all give the same--pursed-lipped, downward-cast--look. What happens when a volcano erupts into a thunderstorm. On Monday, 40 years after being leaked, the complete Pentagon Papers will be officially declassified. Leonard Nimoy--using, ahem, logic--urges a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Primary
Accused of fraud and perjury, Lance Armstrong is under fire from federal prosecutors. But, well, Wall Street got off. Options for the cyclist from a banker’s point of view.
Why "parasitic business models" like Forever 21 and Facebook persist: They encourage us to repackage ourselves with satisfying frequency. How to make your own iconic Eames lounge chair and ottoman. Street pianos returning to New York, but with a new name and concept--and without the artist who introduced
Bahrain's campaign to humiliate and torture Shiites meets American silence. British intelligence claims success for Operation Cupcake, disrupting al Qaeda's PDF capabilities. Ash falls like snow in Argentina, blown across the Andes from Chile's volcanoes. Map shows every disaster declared emergency by FEMA since
In some Indian villages, the decisions of unelected councils of male elders carry more weight than the law. An attempted murder and accusations of gang violence shine a light on a once-private Hasidic village. "Foreskin Man" comic creator defends his work as anti-circumcision, not anti-Semitic, despite its depiction
There is a simmering intensity to Iké Udé’s portraits—which feature subjects ranging from himself, to fashion designer Manolo Blahnik, to financial executive Reggie Van Lee—show a highly stylized world of color, attitude, and object, making their domain as much anarchic as covetable.
Yemen, already accustomed to mere subsistence, teeters on ruin. Germans interested in romanticizing war play confederates during Civil War reenactments. Legal analysis of the Strauss-Kahn case. Op: France determined to run the IMF to conceal how Eurozone led its members into serious fiscal jeapordy. Businessmen rush to create next social
European doctors up against an E.Coli outbreak from a rare, antibiotic-resistant bacteria. U.S. doctors: Mutations are common, and E.Coli should never be fed antibiotics--containment is vital. It's not normal to think you're going to be killed in the very next second. Afghanistan and
You’ve died and gone to heaven. Well, unemployment is bad there, too. Sensitivity training, immigration snags, and the smell of bishops in paradise.
He made your job easy some nights. ESPN writers share "random acts of Shaqness." A panda pregnancy at the National Zoo is a longshot, but the panda keepers there are ready for the unexpected. Jessa Crispin remembers Sassy, hopes Jane's new magazine doesn't get
Retired Japanese engineers over 60 volunteer to face Fukushima's radiation. Op: Medicine trains, hires, and pays doctors to be cowboys, but it's pit crews that patients need. Review of studies used by World Health Organisation agency to prove cell phones "possibly" cause cancer. Audio:
Matthea Harvey is the author of three books of poetry and a contributing editor to jubilat, Meatpaper, and BOMB. Amy Jean Porter is an artist who has had solo exhibitions in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, and has been featured in publications such as Cabinet, Flaunt, jubilat, and
Our man in Boston sits down with the author of the "Berlin Noir" trilogy and other books, to talk about detectives, Nazis, and Impressionist writing.
Anticipating a summer of energy conservation, Japanese government encourages businesses to go casual--to little applause. Spain wants compensation for its vegetables, the export of which dried up when Germany mistakenly blamed them for an E.Coli outbreak. With a plan to resurrect rivers, architecture team wants to return Mexico City
Herman Cain, GOP protest candidate, starting to gain "real candidate" momentum. Leader of Navy's Blue Angels resigns over unsafe maneuver. J. Malcolm Garcia reports Mubarak's trial in Cairo. Egypt prepared an internet shut-off switch as early as 2008. Video: "Mute" button applied
These x-rays of ancient and contemporary artwork were created to serve as a tool for art historians and conservators, but their ethereal yet familiar silhouettes become something more in David Maisel’s photographs.
Scientists spot areas of groundwater depletion around the world, steer findings away from policy-making and conflict-generating. Pentagon says cyber attacks qualify as acts of war--though military retaliation must remain equivalent. The global supply chain may be surviving without Japan, but experts warn that China can't last without it.
Homeland security ends post-9/11 registration of Arabs and Muslims; citizens still caught in the system. Once an Australian term for stolen goods, "swag" is having a moment as hip-hop's darling. Sachs crows for Nigeria's "historic opportunity"; how about a better, nuanced
Prisons struggle to contain smuggling of an opiate treatment that often arrives inside children's drawings. Scientists find rampant fish mislabeling in markets, restaurants; U.S. diners can soon trace beef via DNA. Analysis of lunar magma shows there's water inside the Moon. Slideshow of China'
Seeking greater self-discipline and new adventures, our writer moves to Berlin to play tennis--the sport that's equal parts therapy and sadism--and winds up on Nabokov's old courts.
There is a big difference between looking for something and simply looking, though travel can suit both pursuits.
In California's haste to empty prisons, a computer glitch released 450 inmates with a "high risk of violence." Aerial photos of Joplin before and after the tornado. As graffiti artists edge toward mainstream success, galleries, police race over who catches them first. Sustainable sushi restaurants around
Clips from international reaction to Serbia's arrest of former commander Ratko Miadic. Serbian president to skip Obama meeting because Kosovo is also invited. Congress gave Netanyahu 29 standing ovations; British Parliament stops Obama once, after mention of his Kenyan grandfather. Newly formed Egyptian Nazi party claims one-year plan
The gap between literary and historical fiction is mostly a marketing ploy--at least until a novelist meets a survivor of her story's plot.
Now that the auto bailout looks to be a success, Romney wants credit for the idea, but maybe not for that Times op-ed. Carville: Looking like a pre-McCain 2008 Republican, Obama is stealing all the GOP's best ideas. Photographer juxtaposes Google Street View of Joplin corner with his
Activist builds movement encouraging women to drive in Saudi Arabia; after activist's arrest, movement grows. A third of those Palestinians currently living in East Jerusalem would far rather take Israeli citizenship than Palestinian. Op: The only remaining hope for an Israeli-Palestinian win-win is Abbas's UN process.
Costco is cheap. Convenient, even, but should it be the subject of fine art? Here, the aisles of Home Depot and Target are the landscapes of the 21st century.
Experts baffled by nationwide crime rate decline--except in New York, where increased rates are explained by more victims coming forward. Supreme Court ruling that prison overcrowding is "cruel and unusual," California could release thousands of felons early. Investigating California's water concerns, researchers sample storm clouds to
Libyan rebels to open office in D.C.; last night's attacks on Tripoli were NATO's heaviest so far. Birthers turn on GOP stars Jindal and Rubio, arguing native-born vs. natural-born. The GOP presidential field may be set, but Republican votes are far from settled. GOP turns
Libya teaches journalists how to report news without leaving their hotel room. Ahmadinejad accuses Europe of stealing Iran's rain, but we thought only China had mastered that skill. Willie Nelson's history of political endorsements: If you're a candidate, you don't want it.
As some Christians prepared for the Apocalypse, 500 questers spent Friday night locked inside the New York Public Library with game designer Jane McGonigal.
Photos of the tornado that killed at least 89 in Missouri. Breakdown of Obama's luggage for Europe trip: 1,500 people and an operating theater. Obama says Guinness in Ireland is better than in the States. In Paris or Rome, could an African immigrant have obtained a swift
Obama deliberately embraces 1967 lines in opposition to Netanyahu; "strong medicine for the Palestinian side too." Anti-circumcision measure--which would ban the practice for males under 18, no religious exemptions--makes ballot in San Francisco. World's oldest monument has scientists debating whether religion created civilization, and not vice
To those who feel compelled to address the world from Facebook, Twitter, and email chains, here is a message: No one is listening, least of all Luther Vandross.
How you start an email reveals a lot more about your intentions than you know. Common e-greetings for etiquette voodoo.
CDC inspects "Bizarre Bits" collection over the exhibit of a possible smallpox scab from 1876. Now the most expensive art photo ever: Cindy Sherman's Untitled #96 auctions for $3.89 million. Contrary to belief, private prisons cost more per inmate--and rarely take the infirm--aka the unprofitable.
2012 Olympic torch to pass within a one-hour journey of 95% of UK residents. Muslims in France should fear their Socialist leaders being accused of rape because it benefits Le Pen. Worst of the worst from the French press (note: in French). Five short takes (in English): Are French women
Libya's oil minister crossed into Tunisia last night, becoming the highest-level official to defect in a month. Emerging economies--with China, Brazil, and Turkey in the lead--eye the now-open top IMF job. After nearly a decade of losing value against every other currency, the dollar may be poised for
Roseanne: Charlie Sheen was the world's most famous john, and a sitcom was written around him. Three weeks ago, IMF chief Strauss-Kahn imagined a woman inventing a rape story about him for money. Ben Stein: It's unlikely that Strauss-Kahn is guilty of rape because economists don&
You've seen the billboards and the banner ads: Judgment Day is coming on May 21. But just because you're saved doesn't mean you're home-free. Brimstone Barney's Apocalypse Surplus has just the deal for you.
Children easily comprehend the web—almost as easily as new parents grasp fear. Exploring his computer's "parental controls" for the first time, our writer tries to preserve his innocence a little longer.
In LA, hybrid vehicle drivers won't be allowed to drive solo in carpool lanes after July 1. New York's six Lexus hybrid cabs don't outearn their Crown Vic counterparts, and their drivers don't care. First the crabs find you, then maybe a
Berlusconi and berlusconismo take drubbing in local elections in Italy, where tide of aversion rises. Prison allows Chinese inmates to reduce sentences by doing Communist cultural activities. No djoke: Djokovic's domination of tennis attributed to gluten-free diet. Sam Anderson: Eat, Pray, Love is avant-garde, "a self-generating, self-sustaining,
Imagine an America in which all-female families survived the Great Depression raising children and farming homesteads in the absence of men (and in the absence of today's detractors to gay marriage.
Diplomats spar over newly available petroleum rights, shipping lanes in a rapidly melting Arctic. What the IMF sexual assault accusation means for France's presidential elections. "It's Lincoln meets Reagan with a smidge of Harding." For whatever reason, we can't stop comparing Obama
Smoke the Iraqi donkey wins green card lottery. Azerbaijan, nominally in Europe, wins Eurovision. Balance of power in Libya shifting toward rebels, but war looks to go long--meanwhile, 60-day deadline looms for White House. George Mitchell resigns as chief Middle East envoy; surprise is why he didn't resign
Pakistani Taliban kills 80, most of them newly trained cadets leaving paramilitary academy. File under "inevitable"--the Taliban gets on Twitter. Good op-ed about America pressing Pakistan by Zakaria ends with remarkably vapid last line. McCain: Torture did not give us bin Laden; in fact, waterboarding Khalid Sheik
A decade after Osama bin Laden's face achieved iconic status, one writer still can't help thinking, it's a handsome one—this definitive "face of evil."
Galleon Group founder, mega-bajillionaire Raj Rajaratnam convicted of insider trading. Pentagon considering family visits for Guantanamo detainees. Conservative estimate says 48 women and girls are raped every hour in DR Congo, "one of the great human crises of our time." Former Peace Corps volunteers speak out against agency&
Bin Laden data reveal a terror kingpin active in new plots, including 9/11-scale attacks in smaller cities across the U.S. DA files suit to overturn Schwarzenegger commutation, since he didn't contact the victims first. As governor, Mitt Romney ushered in statewide health coverage; as GOP candidate,
As America dreams of black ops teams, where do mutants belong? And can comics end wars? From Captain America to big blond Thor, Osama bin Laden, and beyond.
Ten years ago, Bush and Musharraf made a deal: U.S. could raid, Pakistan would protest afterward. Hitchens on voice in writing and speech now that he has lost his own. What happens to all the Asian-American overachievers when the test-taking ends? Technocrats who seemed golden in winter now doomed
Reports show U.S. was prepared to battle Pakistani forces if they stood between them and bin Laden. A survey of the algorithms that rule the web, and how they affect everything from content farms to sports journalism. Charting the path of the Old Man in the Lake, the waterlogged
When we talk about "saving the planet" we really mean "save ourselves, please." Futurologists forecast what's next for the Earth's resident specks. Since their televised tussle 30 years ago, anthropologists Leakey and Johanson have apparently evolved. In the Galapagos, struggling to find
Syrian tycoon says Assads will fight to bitter end, but if Syria falls, so will Israel. Chart: Percentages of populations living on $10 or less per day. Urban renewal and economic development mean hard times for Turkey's remaining poor. Photos: Japan two months later. Somaliland leads world in
Nigel Peake’s new book is a lovely collection of drawings about farms, fields, and birds. It is pretty much irresistible, taken from childhood impressions and Peake’s current life in a one-road Irish village, where he is mistaken for the postman.
One-third of Africa's billion-strong population now middle class. Compelling profile of China-Siberia border, "one of the most important in the power struggles of the new century." Officials around Putin and Medvedev undergoing nervous breakdowns while trying to place loyalties. Germans make Donald Duck smarter in translation,
Despite near-loss, unfortunately-named PAP Party holds power in Singapore for 46th straight year. Obama administration proposes $1 billion in debt relief for succesor to Mubarak government. Topics to anticipate this week. Experts believe Salafist groups, not Muslim Brotherhood, may be Egypt's real rising fundamentalist power. Almost 200 arrested
Merkel grilled for saying bin Laden's death "pleased" her; India jubilant bin Laden was found in Pakistan. Military long-read: Time to adjust our alliances to the post-protectorate era. Slideshow of memorable state-ordered assassinations in foreign lands. Republican senators thought photos of dead bin Laden were real
There's a peculiar odor to burning hope--it's the smell of exhaust fumes, human sweat, and a fast-food container interred under a seat cushion.
Absent from the first-ever Fed chairman press event this week: discussion of bank regulation. Everyone wants to prove money won't make you happy, though research shows poverty sure can make you unhappy. Star Wars propaganda posters. In Tuscaloosa, there is a woman, a neighbor, who walks every day
Time to revisit this 2006 debunking of bin Laden being on dialysis; the myth dates back to 2000. Video: Osama's compound burning after the attack. John Ashcroft appointed head of ethics at Xe, formerly known as Blackwater. Op: China would love to see Trump elected president; it would
International Criminal Court finds grounds to charge Gadhafi's forces with committing war crimes. Garance Franke-Ruta dissects the multiple, and contradicting, White House narratives of bin Laden's death. Science about "first strike news"--updates to big stories barely dent our beliefs. Robert Fisk recounts his
From Schwarzkopf’s boots to traffic cones, the federal government’s official color palette—yes, it has one—controls much of what we see. An investigation into how America elects to paint itself.
Federal prosecutors to request dismissal of charges against Osama bin Laden, indicted since 1998. Gourevitch: Don't release the bin Laden photos; this moment's iconic image shouldn't be so gruesome. Nissan edges out Ford and Karsan Otmotiv as the next generation of NYC taxis. California
Raid on bin Laden compound uncovered a "mother lode of intelligence," including a number of hard drives. With Missouri's appeal blocked, Corps of Engineers blows Mississippi River levee to save Illinois town. Brain tissue tests on former NFL player who committed suicide reveal the trauma-induced depression
Our man in Boston sits down with writer Andre Dubus III to discuss the differences between memoir and autobiography, Harvard and UMass students, and when it is inappropriate to send an email.
Bin Laden's DNA match most likely from a parent or child to meet 99.9% accuracy. Great hideout, would use again. Bin Laden's compound receives mostly bum reviews. Times drops honorific for bin Laden. Op: If Pakistan's military intelligence is mildly competent, bin Laden
How is it we can know what Jupiter’s Great Red Spot looks like, or Saturn’s rings, or the dusty surface of Mars, though no human has every seen them in person? Michael Benson turns NASA’s data sets and grainy pictures into dazzling, saturated images of our solar system.
Legal question of killing Osama bin Laden isn't exactly cut and dry, though any outcry is unlikely. Day of military operation was "excruciating," says Obama aide. Pakistani military shamed by bin Laden's death; chief visited academy next to Osama's hideout last month.
U.S. kills bin Laden in Pakistan; body buried at sea to prevent grave becoming shrine. Man who live-Tweeted Osama's death laments that Abbottabad will now become "as crowded as Lahore." How the operation played out; an obituary for Osama; global reaction in photos. Conquering bin
Egypt to open blockaded border with Gaza while normalizing relations with Hamas and Iran. Afghanistan, unable to pay for a volunteer army, considers a draft. Thailand and Cambodia agree to truce in much-ignored, very non-royal-wedding border skirmish. Chart: Average ages for people marrying in Britain. Two girls reflect on the
Every flea market has a bin of found postcards for sale. Some notes, however, wait to be mailed.
Ouattara now controls Ivory Coast, but some militias that got him there have gone renegade. Videos: Tornado that tore through Tuscaloosa. Excellent view, with lucid information, on artist Ai Weiwei's jailing and the prevailing silence. Arab leaders absorb Mubarak's mistake--better to fight and kill than run
Last night's storms across the South killed 72 people in four states. States spar over the levee blast that could save a flood-threatened Illinois town--and destroy 130K acres of Missouri farmland. LAPD finishes analyzing backlog of 6,132 untested rape kits--some were stored for more than a decade.
Maps are useful in jungles, classrooms, and when you need to cross a bombing ground during a storm. But they’re pointless when love implodes.
With fewer Japanese cars entering the US market due to disaster recovery, rivals look toward boosting production. Gitmo Wikileaks reveal al Qaeda plot to cut down the Brooklyn Bridge--Kelly deemed it "doable." The Times on why it was denied the latest WikiLeaks, and why Assange no longer controls
White House releases Obama's birth certificate, Trump takes credit for "hopefully getting rid of this issue." Brief history of lying in modern American politics. Reporter flies with Abbas as he pitches UN resolution to confer statehood on Palestinians. Syria poised to join UN's Council
Preparing for Britain's big fat royal wedding, our writer undergoes a crisis of republicanism when labrador Ella questions his arrogance about the family that wears the crown.
European scientists study volcano ash effects, demonstrate last year's airspace shutdown was justified. Now that Gaudi's cathedral is finished--130 years late--Barcelonans can begin debating the building's authenticity. International Criminal Court Justice pauses hearing to ask attorneys to shed their wigs. For countries with very
Law firm hired by House to defend Defense of Marriage Act drops case after public pressure. UN inquiry into Sri Lankan army's final offensive against Tamil Tigers finds ghastly war crimes. By the way, Cambodia and Thailand have been fighting for the past five days. Pictures from Chernobyl.
Robin Williams—no, not that Robin Williams—paints sulky, introspective adolescents. Her figures are waiting to emerge from underneath snowball beards, oversized hats, and heavy party dresses. These costumes may be fantastic, but the paintings suggest that what they've hidden is more amazing.
White House considers sanctions against Syria for "deplorable" "brutal violence" against its people in Deraa. Excellent Economist summary of California's failed experiment with unchecked direct democracy. Book about flies becomes valued at $23 million on Amazon. Rumor in physics world says Higgs boson, also
Interactive history of Guantánamo prisoners, based on publication of more Wikileaks files. Syrian army rolls into southern city of Daraa with tanks. Afghan end-game sliding toward reconciliation with Taliban forces, though Pentagon has yet to concede. Taliban spends five months digging tunnel under Kandahar jail; almost 500 comrades break free
A new poem about lies and truth, and the fact that George Washington’s transplanted teeth were not made of wood, but probably came from his slaves.
Armed U.S. Predator drones to fly missions in Libya; McCain arrives in Benghazi. At least nine Latin American countries developing drone programs. Notes from the memorial service for Chris Hondros and Tim Hetherington in Benghazi. Not only a very brave and good man, but an endearingly sensitive and honest
Integral to America's food obsession are the stylists who make it look good. Our panel of industry experts talks about photography and the art of arranging spaghetti strands.
Photographs from Misrata over the past several days taken by killed photographer Chris Hondros. Photos: Texas wildfires. The House introduced 84 bills in response to the BP spill. It passed two of them. They died in the Senate. Kabul Bank to be split in two to save customers' assets;
On Wednesday, Bernanke will become the first Fed chairman to hold a press conference. With some species more threatened than others, potentially endangered animals face a very long waiting list. TV on the Radio's Gerard Smith loses battle with lung cancer--he was 36. If convicted, the mastermind behind
Egypt's chief archaeologist now multitasking to avoid allegations of powermongering and fraud. We're talking about the largest mass migration in human history. Anticipating Bangladesh much underwater in 2050. Ireland certainly has some interesting water towers. Print media still strong in Ethiopia, where customers pay less than
To our knowledge, Ezra Pound never saw a donkey show. Here's updated cantos for drunk backpackers in Madrid and jerks on the Dead Sea.
Supreme Court will throw out lawsuit by six states to limit carbon pollution by coal plants in other states. Twenty-eight countries pledge almost $2 billion to build new concrete shell enclosing Chernobyl reactor. Founder of what was once one of the nation's largest mortgage lenders found guilty of
Our man in Boston talks with memoirist and historian Carlos Eire to discuss Cuba and Operation Peter Pan, when 15,000 children were airlifted away from their parents.
Banks ordered to freeze international assets face Arabic spelling challenges. Turned down for 826, Austin lures teachers from its local music and film scene to start a creative tutoring center. A new business finds there's money to be made introducing unconnected parents to private school administrators. Cuba'
Summary of Nigerian politics: a federal system of fiefdoms ruled by godfatherism. Protests in Nigeria, Uganda, and Burkina Faso don't symbolize a broader African movement. Cousins of Roomba deployed to Fukushima reactor building. See also: Video shot by an unmanned helicopter of the destruction of Fukushima's
There’s something irresistible about photographer Jean Pagliuso’s birds. From chickens to falcons, their pride, confusion, sweetness, and complacence jumps out in these “honest and forthright” portraits.
Riots break out in Nigeria after results, some troubling, show Goodluck Jonathan to win. Long read: Hitchens on sex, the divided self, and how his cancer's making him a human experiment. Rider to last week's budget deal: gray wolf removed from Idaho and Montana's
Libyan-American telecom executive establishes cell-phone service for rebels, who were using signal flags. Long read: Saudi Arabia and Iran enter a new cold war. Sarkozy's line for Africa--"neither interference nor indifference" smacks some of Françafrique. Photos: Pictures of Dadaab, world's largest refugee camp,
Accountants aren’t the only ones inspired by “Joint Strike Fighter Property Costs.” Five openings for novels inspired by California’s rather unique state tax adjustments.
Photos from Japan, one month later. California immigration scam targeting Chinese nationals recruited victims into a fake U.S. special forces unit. The Finnish government's "baby box" is like a baby shower without any bad gifts. In 1993, John Fogerty was slapped with a lawsuit for
Having fulfilled his duty once again and with the most imminent dangers receding into the distance, it’s time to depart. The Golem posts his final entry.
Doctors in Japan say patients are experiencing phantom quakes and other symptoms of "earthquake sickness." Japan's recovery and rescue teams enter 10 km area around Fukushima plant for the first time. Obama faces no serious challengers to the nomination--and incumbents who do tend to lose in
Qatar acknowledges running secret pipeline of "defensive" weapons to Libyan rebels. Mubarak's sons being held in a prison known for torture--and for being where the U.S. sent suspected militants. Video: Czech president pockets a ceremonial pen. "Chilean CoPeepapo Mine Rescue" winner of Post&
Does your minor want to be a miner? How about a McNugget cook? Welcome to KidZania, a revolutionary theme park coming soon to the U.S. that lets kids play at corporate-sponsored employment.
Britain, France confound NATO, suffer wrist slap while calling on allies to intensify Libyan airstrikes. "It is not beyond the imagination that 50% of the oil is still floating around out there." A scientist in a submarine studies the Gulf, post-Deepwater Horizon. The BP spill's toll
Matt Taibbi tracks how and why the Fed gave wives of two Morgan Stanley bigwigs $220 million. Men over 50 in North Korea allowed to grow their hair up to 2.75 inches to hide bald spots. Miliband: There is no military solution to Afghanistan; our leverage is quickly declining.
Libyan rebels reject African Union's proposed roadmap to peace: It's not enough if Gadhafi doesn't go. U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit upholds lower court's stay on key provisions of Arizona's harsh anti-immigration law. Blast in Minsk
In an excerpt from John Pollacks forthcoming “The Pun Also Rises,” the author recalls his experience in the Pun-Off World Championships. (Hint: He talks quiply.)
Conservative Christians backed Gbagbo; multiple relationships with high-profile evangelicals. Indonesian legislator elected on anti-porn platform arrested for watching porn in parliament. Basketball coaches and players from two California universities indicted for match fixing. At home with Mark Hogancamp, creator of WWII-era fantasy world Marwencol. Brief quiz to test your Civil
Everyday scenes from life in Brighton, England are suffused with an eerie magic by the shapes created by flowers and small insects placed by photographer Stephen Gill into his camera.
Many surprised to see healthy bids for Warner Music--perhaps the deep-pocketed see what the biz can be, rather than what it once was. "He was part of a generation that had had so few opportunities open to them." An interview with Yuri Gagarin's daughter, on the
Ivory Coast's Gbagbo captured, ending standoff and siege. Jordanian self-immolates outside prime minister's office in Amman. Five killed in shooting spree in Dutch shopping mall, 12 in similar incident at Brazilian public school. Man who shot John Wilkes Booth went on to live in constant fear
America's last island prison, where staff and inmates lived side-by-side, closes in Puget Sound. Alleged Libyan rape victim set free. Woman's Day strangely fascinated with famous American ghost towns. Op: Edith Piaf led a more outrageous life--mafia involvement, prostitution--than films suggest. Scientists dissect sociological role of
Taliban aligns itself with fury over Florida Koran burning; death toll still rising. Taliban attack on Sufi shrine in Pakistan kills more than 40; see also: on the state of Sufism today. U.S. shift positions and concludes Yemen's leader needs to go. Even if this rash of
Crisis in Ivory Coast quickly evolving; Ouattara backers seize state TV, attack palace; Reuters updates. Photos from Libyan conflict. Also important: Prince William won't wear a wedding band, but Kate gets one of rare Welsh gold. War correspondent describes fortnight spent in Gadhafi's prison. Qataris start
While the Tournament of Books hangs on a thread until Monday, the Biblioracle steps in to ease the pain. At 3 p.m. Eastern, list the last five books you read, and he'll tell you what to read next.
China white paper says military competition with U.S. and others is fierce, particularly over Taiwan. Message sent to Gadhafi by Koussa's defection: It's not just about airstrikes. C.I.A. working in Libya for several weeks "to bleed Gadhafi's military," gather
U.K. accepts defecting Libyan foreign minister, expels five Gadhafi-supporting diplomats. Lead suspect in Bali bombing, running for almost 10 years, nabbed in Pakistan. A year after Saleh's meeting with Bush, the U.S. "trainers" would set up their first "wet" operation. Six years
France leans on U.S. to arm Libyan rebels; Gates remembers arming Afghans who later became Taliban. Tuesday attack on Iraq government office ends with dozens of insurgents and over 30 hostages dead. Syrian president dismisses cabinet in latest concession to protesting crowds. George Clooney on witness list for Berlusconi&
China to overtake the U.S. as world's leading publisher of scientific papers--though that doesn't mean anyone is citing China's articles. It's a sign of something when tech companies start poaching White House employees. Op: Libya may be in the headlines, but
Bernard-Henri "BHL" Levy may be world's most powerful philosopher--e.g., he got France into Libya. Survey of humanitarian intervention from Nigeria's Biafran war to Kosovo, with lots of BHL and his hair. Email exchange between Fukushima nuclear plant worker and Tepco employee. Whiffs of
Hugo Chavez speaks out for second Middle East dictator, calls Syria's Assad "a man of great human sensitivity." Ivory Coast's Ouattara rejects African Union's appointed mediator for his connections to Gbagbo. Hotels say they add room items strategically; up next: iPads, but
Self-restraint sweeps Japan--graduations cancelled, in-store jingles toned down. Gates: Gadhafi moving dead people to simulate civilian attacks. Ground report: "After 42 years of Gadhafi... Libyans don't know what their country is, much less what it will be." Rebels close on Gadhafi's hometown, gateway of
Sharing a name with thousands of other men, even hundreds of thousands, can make for interesting email. Some of the messages that have landed in his inbox.
America's Hispanic population tops 50 million; by 2050, 1 in 3 U.S. residents will be Hispanic. Summary of Arab reaction to Libyan intervention--scotching the snake makes for troubling effects. Chart: Subsidies offered by Arab nations to quell domestic uprising. Negotiations for Yemen's power switch hit
Treasury starts freezing Gadhafi's estimated $100 million--and stops 72 hours later, $30 billion frozen. Next time you feel like complaining about CNN or Fox's news slant, try Libyan state TV. Op: Cosmo's Middle Eastern launch could be an engine of feminist change. Timeline of
Possible stalemate: Gadhafi controls Tripoli and western Libya; rebels hold east under outside protection. Kuwait and Jordan offer logistic help to Libya intervention. There will be no different yardsticks. Departing Arab League head answers questions about hypocrisy. Portugal's prime minister quits after austerity measures are again rejected; bailout
Elizabeth Taylor dead at 79; "she knew she was a star and relished, even cherished her position." Taylor's career timeline. Tokyo tap water not safe for infants. Bret Easton Ellis on Charlie Sheen as herald of the new "Post-Empire." Reviews of Wuthering Heights from
Yesterday's Israeli attacks on Gaza City killed mixture of militants and civilians, including two children. Very clever visualization from the Guardian of recent Arab unrest. Europe grapples with leading Libyan intervention, displaying between "too much zeal" and "too little zeal." You would think that
Living in the fascist stronghold of Marigold Gardens will challenge the roots of even the most hardcore. One parent’s struggle against the machine.
Cambodia bans men over 50 from marrying its women. Pictures of Japan one week later. Court refuses to let Ponzi mastermind settle case privately with Amish, arguing violation of church-state separation. Hamas a touch pissed the U.N. wants to teach Palestinian children about the Holocaust; U.N. teachers pissed,
No-fly zone established, Obama looks to hand over command swiftly. Costs in Libya: $100 million for one day of missiles; $1 billion will easily be passed. China abstains from vote on Libya, though not from criticizing subsequent U.N. actions. Japan's nuclear crisis is 60% manmade--government passivity and
Situation in Yemen unstable; president fires few ministers left; commanders join protest movement. Arab League hedges bets, criticizes no-fly zone it requested; African Union condemns the whole thing. 77.2% of 18 million voting Egyptians choose to amend constitution toward democracy and summer elections. Ambassador to Mexico takes one for
Oe: The Japanese should not have drawn from the tragedy of Hiroshima a "recipe" for growth. Chart: Radiation absorbed from various sources--from bananas to mammograms. Notes from Japan, including life inside Tokyo FM, where pop stars communicate sympathy. Rescued: Grandmother and 16-year-old after being trapped nine days in
March Madness is not self-explanatory. To assist our coverage, a mother and son discuss over instant-message how college basketball works.
Security Council votes to authorize military action, and France leads charge; Gadhafi pledges no mercy. Live BBC stream of West/Arab League intervention in Libya. Egypt arming Libyan rebels; rebels somehow also launching fighter-jet attacks. "Obama joked about Clinton lobbing rocks through his window" to push for moving
A poem for when missing someone makes the soles of your feet hurt.
Military prepares to deploy fake personas to support U.S. interests on foreign social networks. Interesting analysis of potential economic consequences for Japan in light of the lack of much data. Major banks "testing out" $5 ATM withdrawal fees. Accessible Bonnie Bassler profile, "champion of bacterial conversations.
Hoax text messages spreading around Asian nations stoke unease about radiation. For all we've lost, hope is in fact one thing we Japanese have regained. Clinton visits Tahrir Square, praises Egyptian protesters and upbraids Bahraini government. Gadhafi threatening deadly siege of Libyan rebels has U.S. pushing the
Military helicopters unable to waterbomb fire in Fukushima nuclear reactor; firefighting efforts frantic. Relief effort in Japan does not have room for more funding; give to Doctors Without Borders instead. Slideshow: History of Japan being culturally depicted as a land of disaster. N.A.S.A. investigating bag of cocaine
Japanese emperor hits live TV to urge all-out effort and say he's "deeply worried." Meltdown 101: how "spent-fuel pools" work; chart of world's biggest nuclear-electricity producers. Report from Kyoto, where life is reasonably calm and continuous, and the French Embassy isn'
The N.F.L. is corrupt, baseball's a distant dream, and March Madness is only one month long. Here's why any true sports fan watches soccer.
Experiment with kids and boxes helps explain why people interpret natural disasters as divine messages. Q&A on misconceptions of post-disaster counseling, and why putting survivors in therapy immediately is harmful. U.S. hoping Aristide will remain out of Haiti through election season. Saif Qaddafi's classmate remembers
Japan's nuclear crisis verges toward catastrophe; "unpalatable options" even if full meltdown is averted. Sunni vs. Shiite as Iran calls arrival of Saudi troops in Bahrain "unacceptable." Hitchens: If we do nothing in Libya now, let's be wise and prepare to do
Thousands of bodies wash up on Japanese shorelines; central bank injects $184 billion into money markets. Thousands of protesters blocked off Bahrain's financial district. Alec Baldwin offers career advice to Charlie Sheen: Apologize and beg. Milan, Ind., which inspired Hoosiers, now has no businesses. Sixteen ways to use
Millions saved in Japan by good engineering and government building codes. There was almost a festive spirit in the air. Report from a cubicle in Tokyo. Interesting, brief roundtable on lessons for America from Japan's nuclear crisis. European officials attempt to quickly reassure citizens an atomic-power emergency is
Not everyone can be a judge in the Tournament of Books. Not every novel deserves a rave. But what if the world’s best books were reviewed all at once? The ultimate Frankenstein of reviews.
Videos of Japan's earthquake and tsunami, causing vast destruction. Op: L.A.'s traffic and despicable people doom it to being destroyed repeatedly in movies. Despite Chinese orders, Dalai Lama to retire rather than reincarnate. Britain risks being bumped to Europe's bottom tier, which may
You don’t spend centuries watching humans expire without it having an effect on your sense of imminent danger. The Golem remembers, and considers what’s next.
Cameroon bans Twitter, affecting almost no one while sending a message of being out of touch. Chinese journalist/blogger miffed that he, unlike Zuckerberg's dog, can't have a Facebook account. Finding sneaky, unintentional "rape-friendliness" in Times account of girl's gang rape in
Gadhafi has "tens of billions" in cash in Tripoli to prolong his fight, having laundered many years with the Swiss. Explanation for the many spellings of Gadhafi. British and Brazilian correspondents go missing near outskirts of Tripoli. France becomes first nation to recognize Libyan rebels as state'
Guatemala's first lady to pull a Hillary and run for president, but needs to challenge an anti-succession law. Iranian shipment of rockets to the Taliban intercepted. Universal decides not to back del Toro's $150-million adaptation of Lovecraft's "Madness" after del Toro insists
Yemeni police shoot at least 50 attempting to join larger protest group at Sanaa University. Malta, with strong business ties to the region, delaying E.U. sanction-setting against Libya. Arab women "massively" participating in current revolutions, determined their efforts won't be forgotten. Smithsonian curator sent to
U.K. and France drafting "contingency" resolution to impose no-fly zone over Libya. Tunisia dissolves state security apparatus "to overcome the deficiencies noted under the former regime." Coverage of coverage of anti-Semitism having a moment in the sun. Profile of Dan Savage, America's most
Obama approves resuming Guantanamo trials, still seeks other venues and means to try terrorists. Reports of African mercenaries fighting for Gadhafi stoke racial violence against African migrant workers in Libya. America's incredible military capacity provides a powerful temptation to grasp the sword. Gates predicts minor troop pullout this
Our man in Boston sits down with author Gretel Ehrlich to talk about daily life in the Arctic Circle, good wine, Tom McGuane, and how to go online from an off-the-grid cabin in Wyoming.
Rather than kill the web, Libyan government moved it into "standby mode," preserving its own uses. Friedman on the forces bearing down on the Middle East; rebuttal regarding the force of Friedman's vanity. Egypt revolution tweets already compiled in a book, assuming publisher can get each
Gadhafi compares struggle to oppress rebels to Israel's war against Hamas. Ground reporting from Libyan rebels' attacks around Ras Lanuf. Musicians face calls to surrender fees earned from performing for Gadhafi's family. Dictators learn how to manipulate Facebook and arrest rebels for their "likes.
China restricting journalists and foreigners over fears of Middle East repeat. Libyan rebels say, "Thanks, but no thanks," to Chávez's offer to broker peace deal. Another American war in an Arab state--what's not to like? Six considerations for discussing a Libyan no-fly zone. Egypt&
The internet’s been tamed, social media’s a food court, and everyone is positive, full of likes. But that’s only if you buy the algorithm of conformity.
Libya-Tunisia border "bursting"--90,000 refugee in 10 days; Europe transports Egyptians home. Yemeni president, perhaps remembering all those U.S. aid dollars, backtracks on "U.S. staging Middle East revolution." Police counterterrorism training business coheres under one view: total war with Islam. Black Keys ex-wife
Justice Alito is the lone dissenter in upholding the right of fringe groups to protest near private funerals. Supreme Court considers whether Ashcroft has personal immunity in the 2003 detention of an American Muslim. Most popular Bible for American catholics revised; "virgin" becomes "young woman"; "
To avoid the perception of an oil grab, the U.S. has held off sending military to Libya. Dept. of Agriculture deploys volunteer to Afghanistan to kill birds before they're sucked into jet engines. Police departments train volunteers to pick up extra investigative work. When Pulitzer winners attack:
Egypt's revolution has been instantly commercialized, with all products made in China. Mideast turmoil appears to have shaken Israel-Palestinians issue loose--Israel willing to proceed with limited talks. Op: Keep Israel Jewish, freeze settlements. See also: New housing for Jews approved in east Jerusalem. Chronicle of porn banker'
People’s bookcases say a lot about the tastes and beliefs—at least in interior decorating. Meeting a home library that isn’t up for loan.
Egypt freezes Mubarak and family's assets, forbids them from leaving the country. Obama supports governors in developing alternative health plans that meet the standards of the 2010 law. Health insurers support those patients who want higher priced care to pay extra for it. Research finds link between self-compassion--how
Trey Speegle’s paintings combine the highbrow and lowbrow with a nod toward Pop Art, overlaying meticulously altered vintage paint-by-number graphics with messages to the viewer.
Yemen's president says "secret operations room" in Tel Aviv wants to "destabilize the Arab world." Protesters clash with Iran forces after opposition leaders were jailed. Saif Gadhafi's £1.5 million trade for a Ph.D. from a British university isn't
E.U. agrees to sanctions against Libya; France wants to lead charge to redeem foreign policy credentials. I have done nothing illegal, nothing wrong. French foreign minister resigns over questionable ties to Tunisian business interests. Three hundred arrested in wake of Iraq's "Day of Rage," aimed
Will the terrorist network shrivel slowly to irrelevance? Or will it find a way to exploit the chaos? What now for al Qaeda? U.K., Germany running secret, unauthorized evacuations of citizens by air from Libyan desert. Gadhafi's infamous Ukrainian nurse-friend, described by the State Dept. as a
For two weeks, Wisconsin state employees have occupied the capitol. Our man in Madison reports from inside the rotunda, where the mood swings from obligated to giddy.
Most Libyan leaders can choose to join the opposition--C.I.A. pointman Musa Kusa may have nowhere to go but jail. U.S., Pakistani officials meet privately at an Omani resort to hash out the fate of a C.I.A. contractor accused of murder. Decade-long bidding process to replace
Gadhafi blames unrest on Osama bin Laden and young people on drugs. Obama condemns violence in Libya, but not Gadhafi, possibly out of concern for citizens still in Libya. Cameron apologizes for slow evacuation of Brits. Army ordered psy-ops team to manipulate McCain and other visiting senators in Afghanistan. White
Goldman Sachs says approved G.O.P. spending cuts will halve U.S. economic growth in 2011. Airlines raise ticket prices $10 this week, the first of many responses to oil hitting $100 a barrel. Yemen's president orders police to protect anti-government protestors. New kidney transplant guidelines propose
The internet is flooded with lists of “fun facts,” but none of them are about fun itself.
As the tide quickly turns against Gadhafi, some worry Libya could fracture into violent fiefdoms, a la Somalia. Supreme Court bars lawsuits for vaccine injuries--e.g., infant seizures, buried here under hot-button autism fears. Producers cold-shoulder Teddy Wayne when he finds "random similarities" between his article and an
Protests continue while Bahrain releases more political prisoners; king flies to Saudi Arabia for chat. Ready to chat, Saudi Arabia's king is home after receiving three months of medical treatment abroad. Rules about how to be a girl in a boys' club, which is pretty much still
New Yorkers may think they are surrounded by skyscrapers, but what’s really around is ducks. Identifying the waterbirds of Manhattan.
On his way to the Mojave Desert, photographer Jamey Stillings stumbled across a rare intersection of awesome innovation and breathtaking scenery—the Hoover Dam.
Eastern Libya threatens to shut down oil unless Gadhafi ceases massacre. Libya uprising explained. Op: Life in Appalachia is horrible; dignity and lives are continuously wiped away by coal. Tips on how to grow up with a stutter in Maryland's skinny tip. Fed agencies, including C.I.A.
Gadhafi hangs on: summary of current events, violence, threat of civil war, and umbrella-vision. One thing gleaned from Libya's revolt: Gadhafi's son is no moderate heir. Zimbabwe arrests 46 for watching videos of uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia. Iran sails warships through Suez Canal for the
Catching vague hints of protests in Beijing, Chinese police react with massive paramilitary responses. Republicans may hope budget worries become votes, but history shows that strategy rarely leads to victory. F.C.C. investigates TV station over staffing numbers--due to cutbacks, it may fail to meet coverage obligations to the
White House conducting secret talks with senior Taliban leaders; Mullah Omar speaks via cassette tapes. Mubarak didn't co-opt the web like Iran or China, and by cancelling it he drove people to protest. There's absolutely no turning back. Despite deaths, protests continue in Libya. Libyan regime&
America endlessly honors its best presidents. Enough with that. A demand for a federal holiday to glorify the five who rose so high, only to fail so shamefully.
Patriot Act extended 90 days; White House says they'd prefer until 2013. Formula One Grand Prix, set for protest-stricken Bahrain, now in question. Live updates from Friday's protests in Bahrain, Libya, Yemen, and Jordan. Following Serbia's 2000 revolution, young activists formed school to instruct
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, we crack open one of the mysteries of the universe: How do fortune cookies work?
North Korea celebrates Dear Leader's life with Kimjongilias, flowers designed to bloom on his birthday. Belgium throws parties for going without a government longer than Iraq. Bookmaker's odds on next Middle Eastern country to topple its leader has Yemen first. Tie down your VCR and GPS,
Army captain who busted badge counterfeiters is under investigation for using fake badges to breach security at government buildings. Gunmen who killed U.S. customs agents in Mexico knew they were firing on foreign officers--though no motive has been determined. In an Ohio Amish village, S.E.C. charges man
Following his triumphant appearance on Jeopardy, IBM's Watson supercomputer strikes a deal to replace Charlie Sheen on CBS's hit comedy Two and a Half Men.
How Egypt turned off the internet: The lines to the outside world carried in the services that made its domestic web work. CBS News reporter Lara Logan was beaten and sexually assaulted at Tahrir Square after Mubarak's resignation. In prison interview, Madoff says banks and hedge funds were
Protests spread to Libya; thousands protest in Yemen, anticipating eruption on Feb. 24. WikiLeaks cables show U.S. diplomats finding no evidence tying Iran to Bahrain unrest. Iran calls for "hatred" rally to express frustration with opposition movement. Tymoschenko offers Egyptians and Tunisians lessons from Ukraine: Beware the
Our man in Boston sits down with Scott Spencer, author most recently of Man in the Woods, to talk about writing, dogs, and show business.
With scavengers and corporations eyeing the same bucket of grease, the price of biodiesel jumps to $3 a gallon. Airlines' new tack for harsh winters: Accept defeat, cancel early--rather than detain passengers for hours on a runway. The yellows in many Van Gogh paintings have turned coffee brown, and
Disappointment greets Egypt's decision to use Algerian font instead of Papyrus. Obama's strategy in Egypt--staying out of the way--was successful even if it looked sloppy. Next victim in Egypt: Indiana Jones, Mubarak's chosen Egyptologist. Trucking strikes, elections, presidential stalemates: Five recent Africa news stories
While “Tiger Moms” may pour their energies into rearing successful children, Long Island offspring are learning to beat the tiger cubs at Halo.
A history of the Egypt protests--two years in the making, led by bloggers, headquartered on Facebook. Protests spread to Yemen, Bahrain, and Algeria; demonstrations planned in Iran and Libya. A cautious Israel is pleased that Egypt's new military rulers will honor the 1979 peace treaty. Forgotten in the
Sources say Mubarak's been in a coma since Saturday; rumors say he fainted twice during final speech. Mubarak's gigantic personal yacht "Freedom" paid for by U.S. tax dollars. Obama backs massive arms exports, buying clout abroad while tripling signed aggrements since 2000. Day
Sze Tsung Leong creates incredibly dense portraits from high vantage points that bind the world’s cities to his perspective—embracing and very open, though from a distance.
India and Pakistan to restart peace talks on hold since 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. Wael Ghonim on al-Arabiya TV: "We demand the ability to form political parties immediately. This is what this movement is about." Map of Cairo protests after Mubarak's refusal to resign. Op: Mubarak&
After 15 months of unemployment, our writer lands a job—complete with benefits, direct deposit, and a modern workspace design. Time to shop for dumpy sweaters.
Time elapsed between Gawker's post on congressman's infidelity to his resignation: three hours. "Anybody who listened to tea party people around the country has no excuse for being surprised." Republicans fail to renew Patriot Act. Analysis: It's been a long week for
All your demands will be met today. Egypt's military says it's time to end Mubarak's rule. Syria unbans Facebook; Sudan tells supporters to use Facebook to beat opposition. Harsh wind for king of Jordan: "Bunting and banners that marked the king's
Romance is in the air during February, especially when the air smells vaguely European.
The video that reignited a revolution: Google executive Wael Ghonim's TV interview. W.H.O. statistics show European cancer deaths will plummet in 2011. Writer competes with computers for the Loebner Prize, awarded for being the "most human." Anthropologist explains how humans become nearly amphibious in
More than 300 protesters killed and thousands injured in Egypt, human rights groups say. Times correspondent lays out gear and explains how he sneaks it into Tahrir Square. World leaders have abandoned Mubarak, but Kim Jong-il still wishes him happy new year. Long read: Inside Secret Service detail, from saving
A baby may be a tiny step for mankind, but it's a giant one for new parents, especially the adult diapers part.
In strictly monetary terms, the number of people around the world living in poverty is diminishing. Was the headline "Obama Doesn't Care About the Super Bowl" dancing in his head? A close read of the O'Reilly interview. Roseanne Cash channels Jane Austen while watching
Coach president says men buy 45% of luxury handbags in China. French foreign minister, who suggested attacking Tunisia's protesters, regrets vacationing in Tunisia during a revolt. Why protests continue: graduates with phones but no future, plus doctors and lawyers, are raging. Profile: "The Fridge" can barely
After practicing with his iPod—and feeling pretty good, actually—a novice discovers the extreme fear of conducting a professional orchestra.
After 1,800 robberies in the past three years, some pharmacies want criminals to know they no longer stock OxyContin. A federal government initiative to offer public access to digital records will now cost more than $1.4 billion. For presidential hopefuls, Israel is the new Iowa. Long read: The
Obama fundraisers turn the machine back on--Republicans think Obama will top $1 billion. Across the South, conservative Democrats move to the G.O.P., throw party majorities off balance. No reason to not wait until April 15 if the I.R.S. isn't ready to process returns--actually, April
Adam Goodheart is a historian, journalist, and one of a handful of contributors to the New York Times’s Disunion blog. Disunion marks the 150th anniversary of the events leading up to and including the Civil War in daily installments. Goodheart is also the author of the forthcoming book 1861:
New York to ban smoking in parks and beaches, including Central Park and Coney Island. "All you need is a black mask and a motorcycle, and I have a motorcycle." Man arrested in $1.5 million Bellagio chip robbery. Râmnicu Vâlcea, Romania, is a town whose economy is
Op: Botching every opportunity since 1928, Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood has marginalized itself out of notoriety. As for all the other babies, the market sorts them and stamps labels onto them. Wallace Shawn explains why he's a socialist. For 17 years, photographer Darcy Padilla chronicled a mother
For decades, America has taken Aretha Franklin for granted, heard and loved and danced to her music without a second thought. Now’s the time to think again.
Netanyahu says Iran wants to make Egypt "another Gaza," but doesn't mention how. More than 20,000 Yemenis march for "day of rage." Guardian's live Egypt coverage; charts show "who's who of Egyptian has-beens." Slightly interactive map of
You might recognize Jasper, Texas, as the scene of the 1998 murder of James Byrd, Jr., which brought the East Texas town into headlines. But the complex social life of Jasper’s historically segregated citizens goes beyond the killing, as we see in Alonzo Jordan’s photos of the town.
A new poem about the things families say and do during the holidays—when some words mean nothing, and some wreck meals.
Secretary Clinton's long friendship with Mubarak shown to be key--and risky--to Obama's Egypt strategy. Samples from Arab press responses to Egypt's unrest. Egypt-related Twitter feeds to follow. Yemen's president promises not to run for reelection; Jordan's king dissolves government. Norway
After a shutdown that did nothing to disrupt protests, Egypt restores internet access. Related: Conan was right. Palestinian Authority, Hamas won't allow Palestinians to show support for Egyptian protestors. Investors ignore the news, push Dow Jones above 12,000 for the first time since June 2008. Today is
During a visit to Peter Gabriel’s recording studios, our writer and his borrowed companion Ella discuss the gap between prog and pop while learning about British bridges.
To celebrate the Year of the Rabbit, the Chinese are buying bunnies for their homes, and wishing they hadn't. Chinese state video of air force drill splices in Top Gun dogfight footage. O: "What time of day do you like to record?" K: "Fifty o&
Crowd estimates varied for Egypt's Tuesday protests; Tahrir Square thought to hold 225,000. Primer: Civil war threat kindled in Ivory Coast; academics urge media to focus on power, not ethnicities. Q&A with Cairo protester: Protesters don't have time for Twitter, web, or TV.
Our man in Boston speaks Mary Roach, author most recently of Packing for Mars, about severed-hand fan mail, writing in an office, and Coke in space.
"The people advance as Mubarak starts his retreat." Egypt's Sunday front pages. Wanting to avoid unrest, Syrian president considers his anti-Americanism a grassroots win. Bush adviser says Cairo is proof his former boss was right about the "freedom deficit." Preliminary counts from South Sudan
Iconic protest photo surely to be named, "Walk Like an Egyptian." America's Egypt policy summarized succinctly in a tweet. Egyptian novelist reports from streets, where Coke's used for facewash to fight tear gas. List of recent great Egyptian novels; long primer on Egyptian politics.
The subjects of TRIIIBE’s remarkable photos are the Casilio triplets, whose costume changes and settings are chameleon-like and socially thought-provoking.
Al Jazeera's influence over recent events summarized as vast, freewheeling, not without blind spots. Al Jazeera live blog of Egypt protests. Street report from Egypt; "this is how the Egyptian spring began." Biden: I would not refer to Mubarak as a dictator. D.E.A. sells
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, we offer dream analysis with multiple charts to a reader whose rice turned to rocks.
Despite media reports, it's not really possible for a government to block Twitter. Dubai's unihabited islands, developed for millionaires, gradually falling back into the sea. Pictures to prove that yes, world, there are grocery stores in Detroit. Sometimes you can't believe this is Kampala.
The deficit will reach a record high in 2011, proving a weak economy, tax cuts, and higher spending don't match. White House breaks its silence on Middle East unrest, throws support behind Egyptian protesters. The Dept. of Homeland Security's color-coded threat advisory--set to orange since 2006--will
The day-to-day returns, but the sense of danger is still palpable to the Golem and Ruth. Reluctantly, he returns to his blog, this time with a prompt.
As the official kilogram loses weight, scientists search for new standards. Europe cringes as governments sell iconic properties, including the Hotel de la Marine and the Sherwood Forest. Dairy industry stalls F.D.A.'s plan to test for new antibiotics in milk. Lepidopterists confirm butterfly expert Nabokov'
Tim Pawlenty releases Armageddon-style presidential campaign video. Kinsley: The only thing supporters of Obama's health care plan have going for them is the truth. Reminder: TMN would like to know who you think should run for President. Egypt to no longer tolerate public gatherings. Videos of Egypt protests,
In western Maryland, where the state’s already skinny, being a stutterer who can’t eat doesn’t help growing up. Paying tribute to 1980s Appalachia, home to American chariots.
Postal Service streamlines store closing process, plans to shutter 2,000 locations in two years. Historian accused of altering date on Lincoln pardon to hours before his assassination. Reboot, reject, recast: How to stop James Bond from getting old. Instead of casting, reality TV recruiters troll bars for alpha subjects.
Summary of the Palestinian document leak (story behind the leak). It is a good sign they even got to the stage of haggling over which settlements would end up where. Long read: Current state of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process: dead. Uganda cabinet third largest in the world after North Korea
A new poem, part confession, part song, about immersion and seafood soup.
Al-Jazeera leaks document trove relating to Israeli-Palestinian conflict--more background here. Former C.I.A. official behind Iran-Contra operation still running a spy shop, just not for the government anymore. Hmong community hopes a federal waiver will permit Gen. Vang Pao's burial at Arlington. H.U.D. proposes rules
When Mark Hogancamp awoke from a coma after being brutally assaulted in 2000, he began to build, with breathtaking attention to detail, a minified fantasy world called Marwencol.
America's cotton business booming; prices hit Civil War levels. Rhetoric on the Ivory Coast escalating; Ouattara calls for cocoa ban to disrupt Gbagbo's revenue. Prior to falling, Ben Ali's regime tried to steal Tunisia's Facebook passwords. British police approved to sleep with
Dept. of Justice requisitions army base to process the 127 mobsters they arrested yesterday. Joseph Carna, also known as "Junior Lollipops." The best nicknames from yesterday's bust. David Cheever's 1967 horticulture thesis revolutionized Colombia into a powerhouse flower supplier. Government reveals project "Bye
Everyone has computer problems--only a chosen few are driven insane by them. A defense of daily paranoia.
White House to increase use of military commissions to prosecute Guantánamo detainees. Keith's dearest occupation was not The Economist. Economist obituary of Economist obituary editor. Brief profiles of 10 megacities of the near future. We forget that "the countryside" is itself a manufactured good. Ode to
Announcing the contenders, judges, and Zombie Round for the bloodiest award in publishing: the Seventh Annual Tournament of Books, presented by Field Notes.
In Habbaniya Cece, Iraq--once a model of religious diversity--the last Christian family considers leaving town. After one day on the job, Alabama's new governor is already apologizing to non-Christians. As health care tightens and competition increases, conflicts arise between religious hospitals' directives and staff's actions.
Sure, Obama will be running for re-election very soon, and sure, plenty of people will be backing him, but plenty of OTHER people will be running, too. So now seems like a good time to brainstorm our best candidates. Therefore, this month's Crowdsource is: Blank for President--who do
Victims see a 1997 Vatican letter warning bishops against reporting abuse as new evidence; the church says it's proof of reform. Church officials offer a vial of John Paul II's blood, though not his heart--"the age had passed for that practice." Vermont art
Rapists, murderers, human traffickers—this winter, sedentary criminals are rife in the nation’s parks. Photos of the 11 worst suspects.
Obama reminds Hu of universal human rights, Reid calls Hu a dictator. Cheney needs a heart. Facing wiretaps about orgies and prostitutes, Berlusconi says, "Italy needs everything but elections." One Italian, an artist; two Italians, a concert; three Italians, defeat. Ben Schott chart of differences between nationalities. Science
Aerial photos of Brisbane before and after last week's massive flooding--more here. For two centuries, Tecumseh's curse on the White House has yielded statistically significant, and ominous, results. Arizona legislature will most likely have to amend law to keep Rep. Giffords in office. In Lower Manhattan
Police, judge, and prosecutor visit Baby Doc's hotel. Academics and students have been unshackled. White House makes it marginally easier to visit Cuba. Fascinating notes on Stuxnet and how Siemens helped the U.S. and Israel destablizie Iran's centrifuges. Barak leaves to form new political party;
Environmentalist and photographer J. Henry Fair wants you to stop buying plastic bottles, driving to work, and leaving the lights on. With government controlled by polluting special interests, Fair believes we must vote with our dollars to curb environmental ruin.
Berlusconi probed over dealings with teenage dancer he told police was Hosni Mubarak's relative. Aerial photos of Port-au-Prince before and after the Jan. 12, 2010, earthquake. Ours is a miraculous country. Chinese driver gets life in prison for skipping tolls for eight months. Pictures from Brazil, where over
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, a woman seeking men from Blighty meets the Connecticut Britons.
Lengthy period of deadlock, tension expected after Lebanese government crumbles. Good, brief primer on Lebanon's crisis (though from December). Events in Tunisia are symptomatic of what lies ahead. Arab rulers have striven to kill politics in all its forms. Honduras and Jamaica at odds over death of boat
Engine 28's Roy W. Chelsen is the first firefighter to die since the signing of the Sept. 11 responders' bill. "I want us to live up to her expectations. I want our democracy to be as good as Christina imagined it." Obama in Tucson. Following
The defense of Jared Lee Loughner may depend on an insanity argument--after Hinckley, that outcome has become less likely. U.S. claims New York City charged millions to Medicaid for unnecessary services that sometimes contradicted medical advice. If the world's population had the same amount of living space
North Korea, complete arseholes. Revelations from Wikileaks reduced to three points. Letter from Brazil on current views on TV Globo and from the president's office of favela violence. Saudi Arabia releases vulture accused of spying for Mossad, saying Saudis too have espionage animals. Hitchens: Besides obsessive and homicidal
Fabian Nuñez gave employee at the prison in which his son is incarcerated a Kindle, which was immediately returned. From the moment it was introduced in America, end-of-term clemency has remained controversial. TMN's Leah Finnegan considers Loughner's warning signs, explores what Pima could have done differently.
DeLay gets three years in prison for money-laundering convictions. Basque separatists ETA declare permanent cease-fire in Spain; Spain wants dissolution, weapons dissolved. Terrorist plots against Europe declining; Islamists responsible for only one of 2009's 294 attacks. Australian prime minister's pilots suspended for long night's
Op: Republicans didn't pull the trigger in Tucson, but they've stoked a firestorm of national anger that finally spun out of control. Last year, Pima Community College campus police responded to five "disruptions" by Jared Lee Loughner. Yet another divide in Arizona forms as
Chinese laborers built California's railroads; now China wants to bankroll California's high-speed trains. Sudan ought not to open a Pandora's box of African statelets wildly jumping to be set free. Naming suggestions for southern Sudan. From 1986-2005, drugs that began with the letter "
Photographs of the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, where Wyatt Gallery found an unexpected and unlikely sense of hope in tent cities.
Faced with a stranger at the door seeking shelter for the night, what do you do?
How an insurance company let a teenager die, then spared no expense to save itself. White House orders Pentagon to cut budgets, likely to result in the first troop reductions since the end of the Cold War. Romanian witches use dead dogs, excrement to cast tax-repelling spell. It turns out
If you tell Johnny Depp he’s hideous looking, he’ll think you’re the first person he’s met who sees past his physical appearance—and other lessons.
Health spending in the U.S. flattened in 2009, as the recession forced many to forgo medical treatment. N.A.S.A. names 2012 the most scientifically flawed movie of all time--as if a neutrino particle could ever do that? Auburn football tumbles from fourth to 85th in academic ranking
Chinese aviation enthusiasts "discover" new stealth jet days before U.S. Secretary of Defense arrives in Beijing. Spilt coffee leads to false hijacking alert, angry Turk leads to real alert. Dead birds falling from the sky and fish washing ashore have people puzzling over "aflockalypse." Cop
You learn something new every day, or so they say. In 2010, our writer decided to keep track. Revelations, lessons, and the wisdom of dishwashers in 365 parts.
Mexico's La Familia publishes public letter offering to suspend January activities to prove authorities are behind violence. What undermines student writing today isn't slang, it's unchecked prose. Ever-shortening print quotes and sound bites indicate smart journalism. A writer tells how she won a coat
For D.C.'s new freshmen, today's swearing-in ceremony is the rookie year's high-water mark. Russia captivated by mock Kremlim Twitter feed--KermlinRussia--which doesn't need to do much to make Russian reality funny. Long read: Today's super-rich are hard-working nouveau riche who
When Allen Ginsberg stayed with my family, we played video games and read together. But the harmony was broken when the yoga began. It wouldn't be the last time.
This time, America really is in decline: picking apart the arguments that insist otherwise. If China is the next superpower, that's news to the Chinese. Eager Republicans want to undo the last Congress--except their constituents want job creation, not patriotic posturing. Focus groups during the development of MTV
World's boredom aficionados meet to discuss drying paint, paper clips, car roofs. Op: Contemplating anti-Semitism in the Netherlands--Europe's Muslim problem is that it sees no problem. Despite cold winters, nearly every building in Mexico City lacks central heat. Decade after Taliban's supposed fall, women
When a restaurant is empty, is it still an eating establishment? Wijnanda Deroo’s portraits of vacant restaurants, taken in four of New York City’s five boroughs, reflect just as much on human habits—although people are conspicuously absent from her photographs—as on the spaces themselves.
As lawmakers depart their D.C. offices and new ones move in, their aides scramble to find new jobs. One-term Democrat Alan Grayson leaves office, though not without hurling barbs at his own party and "tool of special interest" Boehner. In contrast to Pelosi's gala inauguration,
Charity Navigator's tips for holiday giving: give without strings; follow up on disaster donations. Humanitarian Notes produces music to entertain, educate, and raise HIV/AIDS awareness in Africa. Partners in Health: Partnering with poor communities to address "untreatable" health problems. Acumen Fund invests in enterprises that
You made your list, you checked it twice, then you waited until the last minute to do any of your shopping. Ideas for gifts for everyone on your list, whether they want them or not.
New census results in seat gains for some states, losses for others--California still holds the largest chunk. Texas's four new seats aren't a sure G.O.P. win--though Republicans will be drawing up the new district lines. Backgrounder on the worldwide elections to watch in 2011.
In our Crowdsource series, we tap the masses' wisdom for your entertainment. This week, TMN readers and staff shout-out to those who made their year.
South Korea aggressively erects giant Christmas tree near North Korea. Chinese officials ban foreign words and Chinglish from publication to keep language pure. Justice and politics in Russia is "all form and no content," as shown in trial of jailed oil tycoon Khodorkovsky. Spain's annual Christmas
Pyongyang transmits its response: South Korea's military exercise are "not worth reacting to." Auditors dig into T.S.A.'s technology spending, wonder where all those puffers went. With poetry already dead, M.T.A. to replace literary quotations with more ads, service advisories. Eat
It's the end of the year, and time to sum it up: Ten albums, all great, no filler.
White House picks up additional Republican support for START ratification. U.K. proposes blocking all online pornography to prevent child porn; adults would need to "opt in." Larry David: Seinfeld syndication made me filthy rich, but sure, I'll take a tax cut, thanks! In the northern
In central Mexico, oil thieves set off a fire, killing 27 and forcing thousands to evacuate. "I was flipping out." Gay troops cautious, hopeful following DADT repeal. Three opinions of the repeal; troops offer regrettable quotes on combat readiness. Hoping to repeal health care reform, state leaders push
Pictures of Christmas trees that confirm national stereotypes. Mussolini never killed anyone. Displaying live tweets, E.U. summit screens filled up with anti-Berlusconi slogans, some simply his own comments. Qatar's World Cup to feature pop-up stadiums designed by Hitler's architect's son. Op: Unlike Congress,
In Shinchi Maruyama's photographs, handfuls of water tossed into the air become flowerbeds or perfect cylinders. An amalgam of sculpture, performance, and photography, Mauyama's work reveals how much beauty can occur in the blink of an eye.
December is the season for taking: taking money from strangers; taking care to avoid crying on the phone. Holiday confessions from a charity call-center employee.
House votes to repeal "don't ask, don't tell", and Obama gets his tax-cut plan, pleasing few. Shift happens. To find optimism and hope for progress and prosperity, look east. Egypt's military runs hotels, produces bottled water and olive oil, but the media&
The technology horizon is brighter than ever—or maybe it’s just set that way in your preferences. A look at the new devices and trends expected to take the tech world by storm in 2011.
Similar to Social Security in the '30s and Medicare in the '60s, the health law debate--and promises of repeal--may last decades. The new thing to do when you're a retired captain of industry: Take up the cowboy sport of cutting. "New car smell" blamed
Our man in Boston talks to the author of Super Sad True Love Story about writing in the near-future, signing readers' e-readers, and abusing a six-foot bong.
Among O.E.C.D. countries, Germany's young have lowest unemployment rate due to apprenticeship system. South Carolina's DeMint says Christian government employees shouldn't be forced to work 10 days before Christmas. Profile of San Francisco's murderer groupie, former fiancé of John
Emanuel faces a grueling, even lighthearted interrogation from Chicagoans who want to keep him off the ballot. Rahm's having a tough time proving residency with a "for sale" video of his Chicago home. In Hong Kong, a billionaire family welcomes triplets, and many accuse them of
In the spirit of yuletide blood sport, we present the 2011 Tournament of Books Long List.
Inquiry says Kosovo's prime minister runs weapons, drugs, and organs smuggling group. Hitchens: Kissinger is "that rare and foul beast, a man whose record shows sympathy for communism and fascism." I had never before encountered such a union of intrigue and idealism. Wieseltier remembers Holbrooke. Nobel
Policing for Prince William's wedding to cost $8 million; wedding-related merchandise to reap $28 million. New York police contemplate a serial killer on Fire Island. Tuesday list: List of reggae bands from the Virgin Islands. Cinematic allegory--when babies are abused to represent crimes against a country--is for dummies.
Foreign Policy compares leaked cables with its list of failed states to see how hot the mess really is. Reactions to judge's federal health decision show few can agree whether to cap the "c" in "Obamacare." Warner Bros. won't fight Yogi Bear
Turkey learns it doesn't own its anthem's copyright after German group tries to profit from performance. Turkey's "cancer villages" may hold key to saving North Dakota citizens from similar fate. Globalization's greatest feat yet: babies with continent-spanning biological beginnings. All
Photographer Sean Marc Lee’s images are refreshingly inconsistent: Next to an absurd but touching photo of two pairs of feet pressed together, their owners out of frame, is a portrait of an older man at a cafe, chopsticks in hand, with his lunch hanging out of his mouth.
Ivory Coast's globally acknowledged new president governs from hotel while previous president won't budge. Week's events in round-up include Berlusconi facing two "awkward" no-confidence votes. Berlusconi says ousting him would create a "crisis in the dark." Friedman: I've
When a cookout on holy ground turns into a rescue mission, you quickly figure out who your friends are.
Three years into World War II, people thought they’d seen it all, including neighbors with concentration camp tattoos.
U.S. companies hold onto cash--reserves are at their largest share since 1959. Students protesting tuition fees in London attack car carrying Prince Charles. In the tradition of kid diplomats, 13-year-old peacemaker has already protested at Tiananmen. "It sounds silly, but this is a serious problem." Pumped-up laser
A morning, a bicycle, a macchiato. Or five? This time, a sensible coffee shop tour. But in the end, it still may be described in only one way.
History is filled with stories of convent rebellion and nuns plotting escape. Concert pianist pays tribute to the teachers, games, and charades that paved the way for his creativity. Zoos fight the business mindset in hopes of saving ugly animals too. Research suggests being too clean can result in depression.
Before and after Deepwater Horizon, several serious spills and close calls on offshore rigs hinted at potential disaster. The web is..."a corporate sphere that tolerates public speech." Anti-Wikileaks attacks place Twitter, Facebook in unenviable positions. With Bush 41's support, Senate will likely pass nuke treaty
Everyone's doing it: Broadcasting private communications for all the world to see. The latest messages could usurp the power elite of the eighth grade.
As it turns out, some suicide bombers aren't ideological martyrs, but just depressed kids. America's leading terrorist expert is a 31-year-old who garnered all his expertise from the web. If you want to be an expert deceiver, master the art of self-deception. Professor recalls his days
Yoko remembers the tea maker. The apartment was always uncluttered and tasteful. Sharing the Dakota with John Lennon. Icelander Kristinn Hrafnsson, the probable new spokesperson for Wikileaks, wants more leaks, less drama. Still no check from WikiLeaks to help with the law fees for the Army private suspected of leaking
Mammoth discrimination suit against Walmart could cost the corporation billions, change the course of class action. Michelle Rhee takes her education battle nationwide, eager to reduce unions to irrelevancy. In Germany's battle for TV ratings, a contestant is accidentally run over by his father on a bet. But
German parliament not ready to drop case of German citizen dying in U.S. drone attack. Attorney overseeing BP and Sept. 11 funds pegs $3 million for a miner as "standard operating procedure." Increasingly, park rangers' biggest threat in the wild is a human with a gun
China ready to spend $511 billion on 245 nuclear reactors--buy expertise and tech now, avoid imports later. Iran claims ability to produce yellow-cake uranium. Israeli spooks high-fived news of "the Chief's last hit" on an Iranian nuclear scientist. North Korea's propagandists can't
Senators reach compromise, agree to extend Bush tax rates and reinstate unemployment compensation. Economically speaking, giving gifts is futile: Their value rarely exceeds their price. Even Niagara Falls, the ultimate tourist attraction, couldn't save nearby towns from falling into disarray. Four apparently unconnected suicides within two months leave
Artist William Wegman is something of a polymath (polyart?). His works span from paintings and drawings, to conceptual videos, to photographs of his Weimaraner dogs.
"Get Your War On" is back, and though war still rages in Afghanistan, now it's time for ska and pesto. Secretly funded anti-piracy force in Somalia nearing readiness, preparing to receive air support. Contrary to popular belief, America's mission in Somalia was a heroic
Presenting the year's best board games, all of which must be easy to learn, quick to play, and exciting for non-gamers.
Norman Seaman was one of New York’s great avant-garde supporters. In his biography, he said, John and Yoko would only get a chapter.
Audience offered refund after disappointing, too-artsy Steve Martin event. Australia braces for Wikileak data-dump, though its own low self-image prevents too much worry. Op: Taking future dumps for granted, let's encourage people to challenge institutions, not pledge further fealty. Report from one of Earth's coldest places,
White House reverses course and says Gulf coastline will remain closed to oil drilling for seven years. Nigeria to file charges against Cheney and Halliburton on bribery grounds. China: Our love for Pyongyang will outlast international "tempests." While war seemed to arrive on the Korean Peninsula, life in
Americans prefer "doing" to "knowing." When will our universities wake up to reality? English majors everywhere: More budget cuts are coming, but prepare to smell great.
For this month's Crowdsource, we want to know: Who you would recognize in your 2010 liner notes? To all the people in your lives (maybe you know them, maybe you don't) who deserve shout-outs, a la the album's notes, the book's acknowledgments,
Senate approves food-safety bill, which many believe doesn't reach far enough, but is better than serving poisoned peanut butter. With Congress deadlocked on jobless benefits, two million people will go unpaid this month--a potentially serious blow to the U.S. economy. With competing billboards near the Lincoln Tunnel,
Hamas to accept referendum on peace treaty with Israel provided it includes all Palestinians in Gaza, West Bank, and diaspora. Muslim Brotherhood to boycott Egyptian runoff vote after losing all seats. Musudan rumors--North Korea's missile, the BM-25--explored; evidence lacking that Iran can hit Western Europe with a missile.
In November 2010, Kanye’s new album exploded just as North Korea launched missiles.
As a recession few economists saw coming enters the background, some look for new prediction models. Obama takes initiative on economic reforms ahead of Republicans, proposes two-year federal pay freeze. Moscow braced for the Wikileaks dump, though the data only proved what everyone knew: Medvedev is Robin, Putin is Batman.
Al Qaeda launches glossy web magazine Inspire to rouse Americans to kill other Americans. We're creating a tremendous reputational tax on the unethical. Wikileaks's Assanage says up next is a big bank. State Department memo on how diplomats deal with walk-in informants. White people outraged to
After 26 years writing Harper’s Notebook, Lewis Lapham talks about history, essays, and modern journalists.
From the WikiLeaks embassy cables, a rundown of Qadhafi's phobias. An overview of what's included in the leaked cables, as well as cleaned-up data ready for you to download. Also helpful: A cable about a riotous, well-armed wedding in the Caucasus. By planning to sleep in
Turkey strikes back at WikiLeaks accusation that it aided al Qaeda in Iraq. "I lost faith in all this stuff a long time ago." Corruption in Egyptian "elections" as seen by sign makers. Subliminal, Israel's most popular rapper, finds success by telling listeners to
You are what you read. For some, that means 22 boxes of books. Facing a storage crisis of bibliolatry proportions, our writer surveys e-readers and a life spent reading.
Faced with a city full of strangers, you do what anyone would do: You give them nicknames and puzzle out their stories. Herewith, the story of an unemployed redhead.
Across the U.S., neighbors of foreclosed homes are eagerly awaiting the new homeowners—soon-to-be acquaintances, friends, lenders of spices, spouse swappers.
Speculations that North Korea's attack was ordered to burnish young Kim Jon Un's credentials. Op: Zadie Smith and Ross Douthat find Facebook dehumanizing because they're pretty social butterflies; everyone ain't like that. "Sarkozy calls journalists pedophiles"; Sarkozy denies calling journalists
At Thanksgiving, a family takes stock of what they’re thankful for by weighing the most valuable things they own: their heads.
"It was not a comfortable home for one person." The New York schools chancellorship once came with a Brooklyn Heights brownstone. My understanding of the immediate post-Watergate era was largely shaped by...Doonesbury compilations. Carnival Cruise Lines, stranded passengers disagree over whether the ship served Spam. To help
U.S. priority in Korea: Avoid overreaction or any missteps. Iran's parliament prevented by Supreme Leader from impeaching Ahmadinejad. Damon Winter's iPhone pictures of soldiers in Afghanistan. The single least popular choice was allowing the expiration of the Bush tax cuts. Times analyzes thousands of readers
Scientist who helped develop body scanning technology says a software upgrade could silence critics. Op: Few Afghans know about Sept. 11--a sign it's time to forget about winning hearts and minds, and go home. He made millions of dollars as an entertainer in Las Vegas and on cruise
How Mexico is changing: narco bling now for sale, instead of being kept by officials. We have no mayor, no police, no transit system. Government is beside the point in abandoned Mexican border towns. American executives explain what it's like to be taken over by Chinese firms. Terrific
Tiffany Bozic is a naturalist of her unconscious. In her latest work, Bozic’s paintings combine fascination with the natural world and a desire to explore uncharted emotional territory in dream-like renderings of plants and animals.
Walk across the office, or send an email? A look at how much time we save—or not—when we opt for the technological solution.
Penn of Penn & Teller offered airport VIP status after his crotch is touched. Effects of airport scanners considered if travelers reach a pleasure-vs.-stress tipping point. "Rape Survivor Devastated by Enhanced Pat Down." Discover analysis of body-scan radiation risk--"Someone is going to get skin cancer.
Anyone who's seen Princess Mononoke knows animated films can hold their own with their live-action counterparts. For those who still think cartoons are for kids, here are 15 reasons why you're wrong.
Airport scanner pictures leaked; Orlando U.S. Marshals saved 35,000 images. TSA agent pulls down woman's blouse and other agents mock her; woman sues. Still our favorite take: "Unemployed English Girl to Wed Soldier from Welfare Family." Cameron banged the Cabinet table in sheer molten
Our man in Boston talks with author (and TMN contributor) Jessica Francis Kane about a tragedy during the Blitz that's the focus of her new novel, The Report.
To critics, the Ghailani verdict--acquitted of all murder charges--proves terrorists cannot be tried in civilian courts. From a 2007 interrogation, the Ghailani statements jurors didn't hear. A stunned Jaimy Gordon wins National Book Award for fiction; a poignant Patti Smith wins for nonfiction. Something in the straightforward nonchalance
In Afghanistan, U.S. troops are systematically destroying hundreds of abandoned, booby-trapped homes. If a country is going to be colonized, they're better off with the British than the French. How helpful was British colonialism? British government apologizes for removing body parts from former nuclear plant workers. Despite
You walk in to your bedroom and find your girlfriend in bed with another man. Blood boils. Violence is imminent. Wait, what's that he's saying?
Soldiers who eat goat kebabs, not Burger King, are less likely to be court-martialed. Restauranteurs hate OpenTable; owner says he pays them more than he pays himself. Op: If he's only one-and-done, Obama is less Carter and more George H.W. Bush. Humanities pursue data diving as the
To help prevent prisoner escapes, N.Y.P.D. begins photographing suspects' irises, stays one step shy of total privacy outrage. Labor organizations campaign to win 50,000 airport screeners hungry for union representation. One way to get more people on board with Mars colonization--faster and cheaper--is to make
Prince William's marriage to bring cheer to Britain amid economic woes. My hands were too big to fit. Michael Caine dishes on Hollywood life. Video: Michael Caine impressions you've surely seen by now. Obama tells Ryan Seacrest about his sleep habits and how presidents order flowers.
If you read Outside, stay home. When we celebrate a hiker who sawed off his hand, we pay tribute to an idiot and ignore countless smarter climbers.
Aung San Suu Kyi shares a path with Mandela and Havel. If the past is any guide, Aung San Suu Kyi will soon try to behave like a politician. Partnership lessons from Keith Richards and Michael Eisner: share absolute trust and love of money. Disney employees stand to be terminated
Bush names who encouraged him to invade Iraq: Mubarak, Saudi Arabia's Prince Bandar, Elie Wiesel. Unlike Iran, Glenn Beck invokes loving Israel after calling Soros a money-grubbing puppetmaster. British politician arrested for ha-ha wishing columnist be stoned to death. Global surge sees more women elected, but women in
Looking at one of photographer Lori Nix’s pictures, something feels amiss long before you realize that the lifelike objects she portrays—bar stools, fountains, books, plants—are handmade and impossibly tiny.
How "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" traveled from a rousing call to arms to "the music that concludes great American lives." More from Dominic Tierney: In early America, the military was an essential work force and exploration team. On Radiolab, a look deep inside cities
With his old life again behind him, The Golem returns to looking ahead to what’s next—or at least trying—and finally gets around to answering some reader email.
Iain McGilchrist is a psychiatrist and writer who works in London. He was awarded a Prize Fellowship of All Souls College, Oxford, in 1975 for teaching English, and later trained in medicine. His new book, The Master and His Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World,
Preliminary White House budget would cut federal spending deficit by hundreds of billions a year. In the proposed cuts, 10% of federal workers will be laid off; those left face a three-year salary freeze. John Boehner plans to do his part by flying commercial air to Washington, rather than hop
Pop culture is fizzy. Mainstream TV is where the fizz goes flat. A preview of the networks' forthcoming dramas based on trendy Twitter feeds.
Pakistan mixes advertising and checkpoints; messages include "Stop. Security Check. Tasty." Haiti has 10,000 with cholera in hospitals; 270,000 expected infected in "between six months and a year." Election map from 1896 New York Times. Video: Footage of students and anarchists protesting tuition hikes
For 16 years, a group doctored records, concocted tales of persecution to defraud Holocaust fund of more than $42 million. "Munchausen by internet," or faking one's illness, is the new trend in virtual deception. When we self-diagnose, we look for control factors. Sometimes we invent them.
Preparing for hurricane Tomas, Haiti's Préval visited more cities in 72 hours than during five years as president. Pious Indonesian minister blames Michelle Obama for shaking his hand. France proposes discussing how much Europe should offend China by honoring Liu Xiaobo's Nobel Prize. When I make
"The luck of New Orleans," Walker Percy said, "is that its troubles usually have their saving graces." Seven authors and scholars discuss writing in the Big Easy, from Early Times to Katrina clichés.
After voting mishaps, Connecticut's rising-star secretary of state finds herself in Katherine Harris territory. The two men had played together, prayed together, and politicked together. How the election injured G.O.P. nepotism. Lest anyone get too caught up in nostalgia--reminders of why the Bush presidency was as
After the dust settles from their own stormy relationship—and their torrid relationships with others—a daughter learns her mother’s big secret.
Wonderful glance at sunspots, our Sun's extra-violent explosions which may or may not vary climate. Terrorists are evil and they may be part of the solution. Diplomat on when to talk to terrorists. Being afraid of terrorists makes parents dictators toward their children. Terrorism, violence, and war shown
Chilean miner sings Elvis, finishes New York Marathon in 5 hours, 40 minutes. Portraits of 99 runners after they crossed yesterday's finish line. From 2004, Rion Nakaya's post-race portraits of New York marathoners. New York Public Library digs up snapshots from the 1979 Marathon. Literary giants
Rachel Barrett’s series takes place in the northern California community of the same name that’s known for being reclusive (residents tear down highway markers), and for providing the backdrop to Richard Brautigan’s “In Watermelon Sugar.” (Some images NSFW)
Saturday's brutal beating of a Moscow journalist may be part of a Medvedev-Putin power struggle. Dick Cheney ran the Bush White House. Myths about George W. Bush. Op: Berlusconi doesn't like women, he likes interchangeable dolls. Eleven paintings "you can't miss" at
Children play games for fun. Adults play games to crush and humiliate. An analysis of behavior on the grown-ups’ playground.
Bush makes clear he heartily approved of waterboarding, rejects "torture" classification. Bush says Kanye calling him a racist ranks among worst moments; Kanye says he wants to connect with Bush. Consumer Reports says Microsoft's Kinect isn't racist, just light-sensitive. Art conservators use concert lighting
Veteran BBC reporter surprised to find China stunningly more open than he remembered. Opposition to vaccination has existed as long as vaccination itself. History of anti-vaccination movements. Putin's mocking of Bush's smaller, weaker, slower dog prompted a Canadian wisecrack. Long read: Detailed account of where Woody
Introducing a new series, "Crowdsource," where we tap the masses' wisdom for your entertainment. This week, TMN readers and staff explain which products the world should destroy.
California voters agreed that pot should be taxed, but not that it should be legal. Related: The failed pot bill met resistance in the "Emerald Triangle," whose economy in part depends on marijuana. Especially noxious hair-relaxing treatments catch the attention of health agencies, who recommend salons protect their
It's no surprise people are afraid of the ocean. Some are scared their ships will wreck; others are terrified of the wreckage. To confront his phobia of shipwrecks, our correspondent borrows a rowboat to face New York's dreadnoughts.
Last night's results shouldn't be a surprise--in the last three elections, voters kicked a party out of power. Now that the Tea Party has a voice in Congress, they must figure out why they've been sent there in the first place. Op: The United
Op: If Palin is going to run for President, she should save face by announcing her cabinet at the same time as her candidacy. Campaign death masks: O'Donnell, Angle. Berlusconi says "bunga bunga" parties are better than being gay. Virginia Woolf in blackface helped invent "
The most colorful parts of Keith Richards’s long-awaited memoir have made headlines. But the guitarist’s deepest insights were left on his editor’s desk.
Elections aren't decided based on candidates' achievements or promises, but on where they fall in a country's economic cycle. Find your polling place. Across the nation this week, local TV stations mined profit in attack ads--only viewers, local businesses lost out. Helpful: What the fuck
Midterms view from China: Americans live in fear, unwilling to sacrifice to sate their greed. Op: American exceptionalism is a lie; if you want "change," move to Britain. Phrase of the week: Berlusconi's playful "bunga-bunga" parties with under-age girls threaten his career. Two generations
A year after Copenhagen, the U.S. has little to show for climate change legislation, nor much to promise. Test audience members collapse during Danny Boyle's movie about hiker Aron Ralston, who amputated his own forearm--also, nice headline. How MMPOG developers have used gameplay tendencies to profile potential
Professionally uninterested in Paris, one of his current cities of residence, photographer Michael Wolf began trolling Google Street View for a new perspective on the over-exposed city.
Government spent $80 billion on intelligence activities over past 12 months. Op: West Point should be raised to ROTC training standards. Transsexual wins Scrabble tournament with "obeisant" (a gesture expressing deferential respect). Korean men over 75 more likely to be working than Frenchmen in their early 60s. Japan&
As the Cardinals fought for a playoff berth in August, I watched my father-in-law in his own personal battle. A tale of victory and loss.
Jon Stewart’s Rally to Restore Sanity is bad for America, except for the America that buys or sells advertising time on Comedy Central.
Mexico's Vicente Fox fully endorses legalizing marijuana in California. California's Humboldt County success selling weed helped it avoid the real-estate crash--can it survive the marijuana boom? In Uzbekistan, state requires children to pick cotton for little pay. Activist Betancourt discusses how she used the Bible, John
The Biblioracle will be open today from 1 to 3 p.m. Back from a late-summer hiatus, the Biblioracle takes the last five books you read and tells you what to read next.
MI6 chief says torture's forbidden, though "dilemmas" pop up when partners offer info gained from pain. British Airways chief says U.S. airport security has "completely redundant" elements. United States mapped according to movies. List of political parties inspired by things upon which people
A dying woman asks her husband for a final favor. What will happen when he loosens the ribbon around her neck?
Unlike two years ago, there's one thing candidates aren't talking about this election season: climate change. From Gone With the Wind to Hot Tub Time Machine: Creditors to decide MGM's fate on Friday. New Zealand introduces new legislation just so The Hobbit can still
Next month, we are starting a new TMN feature called Crowdsource, and for its first installment, we want your rage. Here Is the Product I Hate and Why We want to know what you feel indeniably, unequivocally hateful about. Think of all the crap polluting the world. What current consumer
Kandahar diary: Before we know what these advances mean, brigades cautioned to "under-promise and over-deliver." Lacking data about almost every activity, Egypt possesses a "horrifying" scale of deficiencies. Reading Times tea leaves--Japan is falling, China is rising--with the skinny-jeans coeffecient. New teacher watches Friday Night Lights
This election, Democratic candidates have outraised and outspent their Republican opponents--excepting Whitman's $141 million. A history of candidates with odd names: Young Boozer, Isaac Hayes, Barack Obama. Abroad, journalists are fascinated and bemused by the Tea Party, confirming all their suspicions about Americans. "We are a low-wage
House and Senate candidates on their way to surpassing $2 billion in spending for the first time. U.S. now ranks between Qatar and Uruguay on Corruption Perception index, based on lessening political transparency. Rhode Island Democratic nominee for governor defends telling Obama to "really shove" the endorsement
"I wish they would totally ban it...or just make it totally legal." Life for sheriff's deputies in Humboldt County, Calif. The beef between California and Texas over pollution, jobs, and who's got the better economy. BP's new CEO makes his first
Our man in Boston sits down with author and New Yorker editor Ben Greenman to discuss independent publishing, the edges of art, and Celebrity Chekhov.
For America’s Democrats, the past two decades were a blur of saxophones, chads, and John Kerry’s sloped withers. Then came hope. A dip into the acid puddle to find faith.
Iran's millions paid in cash to Kabul's leaders said to be common practice among countries courting favor. Long read for the commute: Hersh, cyber war, hype manufacturing. See also: studio life of Afghanistan's first soap opera. Citation analysis says the New York Times considers
These surreal yet cozy images in Bo Bartlett’s work depict a world the painter knows best—himself, his childhood home, and family. But beyond painting what he knows, Bartlett paints what he feels, a spiritual connection between his past, present, and future lives. (Some images NSFW)
Why, if the Democrats lose, Obama could be better off--and why it boosts his chances for a 2012 win. Guns purchased from a single shop outside D.C. have been linked to 2,500 crimes. Find online success or die trying--in 18 months, The Awl went broke and became solvent.
In 2005, Daniel Tucker founded AREA Chicago, an organization whose “publications and events serve the double mission of researching art, education, and activist practices within the city of Chicago.” Tucker recently announced his departure from the organization, but he’s been keeping busy. He collaborated on a book called Farm
New narrative: U.S., Afghan forces routing the Taliban in Kandahar, insurgency's heartland. BBC reporter rationalizes trashing war protester's sign, says it was wrong sign, wrong time. Video: Y'all ready for this? G-20 conference, let's go! Virginia textbook author also behind Oh
After belt-tightening forces relocation to a boarding house in Yonkers, our writer learns the ropes of his new situation, where hallways lead to the most unexpected places.
Musician Elliott Smith died seven years ago today in Los Angeles. Though he's remembered mythically in the East Village, it was in Brooklyn where Smith was happy.
Gaza's smuggling tunnels now used for export. Sarkozy follows through on retirement reform and France implodes; U.K. follows suit and Brits tweet wryly. Cape Town frets over razing World Cup stadium, desired by few. Book studying development, specifically in Ethiopia, finds vain, unfulfilled promises. Op: As Facebook
G.O.P., White House prepare for investigations into administration practices, should Republicans take control of the House. N.A.A.C.P. backs report that uncovers Tea Party ties to white nationalist groups. Lone Sept. 11 civil trial to begin in June against United Airlines--passenger's family refused
Those who can’t do, learn. In this installment of our series in which the clueless apprentice with the experts, we divine meaning from the heavenly bodies.
U.S. wiretaps Mexican drug cartel's San Diego office, uncovers smuggling details, assassination plots. "That is the most sublime form of human cruelty I had ever experienced." Navigating the opaque world of BP claims payments. "But take the money. Move on as best you can.
Chavez allies Venezuela with Iran--forever, for anything. Mysterious assassinations in Nigeria linked to radical Islamic sect, but blamed on corrupt government. Op: Assisted suicide must be banned else it lead us to unassisted suicide. Saudi prince found guilty of killing servant after Valentine's Day night out, final act
Bank of America, GMAC celebrate the end of the crisis by restarting more than 100,000 foreclosures. To increase security in Afghanistan, U.S. forces plan to arm and train 20,000 village police. Homeland Security, N.Y. Civil Liberties Union settle--you can photograph a courthouse from a public space.
Every mother worries her child could suddenly become ill. For one, motherhood requires living with the fear that her son could become just like her.
Study suggests women in office are the best of the best, considering how few women get elected. Nevada politics profiled--Reid's politics in particular--as the crash of casino liberalism. In two years, 72 congressional aides made trades in companies that their bosses help oversee. Dutch thieves robbing McDonald'
It's time to ruin the miners story with reports that they're charging up to $25K--and as little as $40--for interviews. How a crew nursed its 1945 B-29 back to health to tour air shows--30-minute rides start at $595. When a Queens juror blogs, the court investigates,
Photographer Michele Abeles’s haunting and incisive portraits and still lifes refuse to provide us with narratives. Instead, they make us wonder why we desired such neat and tidy stories in the first place.
Linguists marvel, along with Colbert, over how far "truthiness" has come. Two views on Mideast peace: Each side sees the other as its oppressor; both are victims of the power of might and rhetoric. Q&A on the Kalashnikov, weapon of the world. People of Tijuana reclaiming
Biden invites nation's women to tax code discussions at private mountain chalet. Infographic: Capitol's age pyramid shows a graying Congress. Whittington lived a full life before Cheney shot him. He's especially grateful, however, for the years he's had since. Lifetime of photos
There’s nothing better than kicking back with your friends and tearing open a bag of Doritos Late Night: Cheeseburger Carrot Sticks—or so some farmers hope.
For nearly a century, a summer enclave on the edge of Staten Island offered restoration to a small group of city-weary New Yorkers. A look back after last summer’s close of Cedar Grove.
A detailed look into the Medicare fraud scheme--doctors, patients unknowingly played a role. One miner ran several miles a day. How diet and exercise shattered dire predictions by topsiders. U.S. brokers peace talks between Afghan government, Taliban, whose factiousness makes progress uncertain. Inside the saga of Amina Masood Janjua,
Pope creates department to re-Christianize "interior desert" of the secular world's soul. Former Joint Chiefs Chairman blames Iraq war "fiasco" on Rumsfeld and Franks, saying flatly the war was pointless. Vet suggests suicides might drop among soldiers if garrison life had less paperwork, fewer
California looks to legalize pot in November--and that, in many ways, would be a crime. An argument against political causes involving dreadlocked alien masks.
With so many similarities between today's U.S. economy and Japan's '90s fumbles, Bernanke may dust off his fighting words. "We get a lot of dogs in here for Adderall toxicity." D.C. veterinary hospital receives a lot of animals on drugs. Explosives
Former Kim Jong-il favorite son "Fat Bear" says he's against his brother's succession, but has no regrets. Lehrer: Intuitive choices beat conscious deliberation in decision-making; deliberation, in fact, can be worse than random chance. Google to finance underwater "superhighway" to support offshore
With profits and exports piling up, U.S. agriculture is surging--cotton prices alone are at a 15-year high. Historians, historical re-enactors trade quotes over whether you should dress up like a Nazi on the weekend. From the Attic: How can I become a historical re-enactor? A screenshot tour of al
For the Aurora High School Rattlers, homecoming was a chance to show the crosstown rivals who was boss. Too bad Sloat Tatum found himself distracted when the cleats hit the field.
Chilean miners agree not to let only one person profit from their story. Celebrities citing drunkenness or exhaustion to excuse racist outbursts may have a point, but whether or not one's "really" racist isn't it. Study suggests accusing men of sexism makes them less
We'll just come out and say it: A lot of photography and art books pass across our desk each year, and Chris Verene’s “Family” (Twin Palms) is the finest we've seen in 2010.
Journal study finds surprise inspections of Gulf of Mexico rigs have dwindled, even as drilling has increased. The Army suicide rate is its highest since the military began keeping track in 2003. Report finds higher proportion of black people are imprisoned in England and Wales than the U.S. The
Kim Jong-Il's youngest son confirmed as successor. Jim Jones: Not the security advisor Obama wanted, and the least successful since Poindexter. Popular "trolley question" has launched a mini-industry and is applied from West Point to Geneva conferences. Detroit photos by David Byrne. Miami has one level-one
Gambling addiction is a simple disease. Living the addiction is a bit more complicated. A chronicle of dependency in seven parts—about poker, “Lolita,” and how to lose $18,000 in less than 36 hours.
Jailed Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo wins Nobel Peace Prize. India issues arrest warrants for two Pakistani army officers, alleging involvement in the Mumbai attacks. Producers adapt Sesame Street for Nigerian market with HIV-positive character, mosquito net mishaps. Seeing its new logo bashed and redesigned online, Gap says public reaction is
C.I.A. invests in a search engine that mines data to predict the future. Stephen Elliott, Blake Butler, and Christina Kingston confab on the challenges of intimacy on social networks. How e-reading changes your attention span; James Bridle explains shared reading through e-books. Conversations with David Sedaris on house
Few people want jury duty, but at least most jurors seated for trial get the satisfaction of passing judgment. For one writer, being an alternate becomes a tale of miscarried justice.
Trial of Russian arms dealer, if he talks, may cause "a new ice age" between U.S. and Russia. Iran's best-known Holocaust denier seeks to throw a rock at Israel from Lebanon. Newly discovered language, Koro, found to be spoken by a few hundred Indians. Op:
When you’re four years old, a kiss is an accessory in a game of dress-up. When you’re the four-year-old’s mother, that kiss comes with a costume trunk of questions.
Bulldozers working on 350 new settlement housing units; Netanyahu contemplates settlement freeze. Lithuania to debunk "dumb blonde" myth by creating island resort operated entirely by blonde staff. Rental friends in New York offer companionship, task-doing, shoulders to cry on. Twin attacks on Western targets in Yemen. Bolivia'
Nine years after Sept. 11, U.S. counter-terrorism analysts still frustrated with databases that won't talk to each other. In India, more parents are opting for c-sections to land on lucky birthdays. They adjust their equipment or spit into their gloves. How batters abuse the on-deck circle. From
A reminder of why banks are terrible places to practice your stand-up comedy routine.
Boom in medical marijuana ads fuel western newspapers; features include "Toke of the Town." Vatican denounces Berlusconi for telling his favorite anti-Semitic joke. Swiss right-wingers caricaturize Italians as rodents. Cameron: "There is an element of American conservatism that is headed in a very culture war direction."
Growing up, photographer Kendall Messick only knew his neighbor, Gordon Brinckle, as the projectionist at the local movie theater. When they met again in 2001, Messick learned that Brinckle had been working at another theater, The Shalimar—a fully operational tribute to cinema’s great movie palaces
Corporations kept borrowing and saving to ride out the recession--unless they start spending, the economy will stay flat. "There's never been a recession for us." Pre-Giuliani-style squeegee man spotted. Theories conflict over whether unemployment makes you sick or being sick makes you unemployed. With a new
Two hundred women raped in Luvungi, "the U.N.'s crowning failure" in Congo. Diplomats say Mitchell overstated initial success during peace talks. Medal of Honor makers remove option to play game as Taliban, replace it with "opposing force," e.g., al Qaeda. Op: D.
A pause in the action, as the Golem recounts important moments in the brothels and strip clubs from his past, both recent and not-so-recent.
Pakistani military pushing for government shakeup. Ecuador's president will not forgive or forget kidnapping. Significant probability, says report, that Afghanistan's security forces won't be ready for transfer of responsibility. Palestinians expected to withdraw from negotations Saturday assuming settlement construction isn't halted. David
New power couple emerges in North Korea: Kim Jong-un's aunt and uncle. Gambian president brags of winning made-up awards, including an admiralship in Nebraska's Great Navy. Germany pays final debt for World War I: €69.9 million. Professional athletes' high salaries help them avoid bribes
Maybe death preceded the technology. Maybe they would deliver profundity in 140 characters. Maybe it's David Foster Wallace. We tell who'd they follow into the afterlife.
Democrats up for reelection find distancing from Obama helps their chances for keeping their seats. The U.S. Postal Service may soon run out of cash, wants a 5.6% postage rate hike or $5 billion, or both. Across the country, the recession forced police departments to cut ranks--and crime
Endowed with modest talents, I have found it good practice to follow in the footsteps of giants. So in talking and writing (which is talking on the page) about books, I follow Nobel laureate Wislawa Szymborska’s lead. In her tome (which I recommend to anyone who presumes to be
October’s bounty includes apples, blackberries, and something half brain, half vegetable. On a New York City sidewalk, discovering a fruit for a mastodon.
The recession forced New Yorkers to move; one in seven Americans now live in poverty. India attempts to improve governance by assigning identification numbers to each of its 1.2 billion citizens. New to New York, Joanne McNeil wonders if geolocation could actually be useful: by helping her retrace her
Iceland's former prime minister may become world's first leader tried for failing to prevent 2008's crash. We are not going to use a shroud of secrecy to excuse illegal behavior. Jann Wenner's Obama interview. More cuts, or higher taxes, may yet be
Every year, brands leverage themselves to monetize potential revenue streams—and this year was no different.
Germany moves to end conscription, originally intended to prevent a military state-within-a-state. I.R.S. will no longer mail paper instructions and forms for annual income tax returns. "I honestly believe the governor's lost interest in this budget...He's making movies, for God's
Fatah-Hamas reunion may appear, making Palestinian negotiators more legitimate, Israelis more resistant. Profile of South Africa's economic crisis--one-third of the workforce is idle, and half of blacks ages 15 to 34 are without work. Op: Regret isn't rational behavior, but an expression of belief in freewill.
"You can go to a library for 35 years and never have to do anything and then have your retirement." Library outsourcing CEO can't make friends. Through several administrations, Woodward has become president ex officio--or at least reporter in chief. Deadline today! Tell us who you
When the recession hit, artists James Tribble and Tracey Mancenido-Tribble took a different kind of road trip: They worked a full year as trained, professional truck drivers, hauling everything from J. Crew items to water bottles in their 18-wheeler.
Rwanda thanked for leaving troops in Darfur despite its fury over report accusing Rwandan troops of genocide. More private contractors than soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan in 2010; many were local civilians. Op: Tea partiers who venerate the Constitution are infantile, and they worship an ahistorical version. Gladwell: Social
More than a generation of Americans have been urged to save the Earth. A survey of the current climate and every H.G. Wells-inspired geoengineering project shows it’s time to pray for Homo sapiens.
Big Beer in California opposes marijuana legalization while microbrews and prison guards remain neutral. Dangerous succession gets under way in North Korea. Probably. Swiss politics nearly impossible to explain to outsiders--an attempt at translation. British football fans try to evict Liverpool FC's American owner by scaring away banks
President sends Nicaragua on vacation and reprints Constitution during absence, including new law to prevent anarchy. Russia's constitution protects politician's thievery and paying for sex. Ethiopian fighter pilots remain stranded in Kyrgyzstan after 20 years. Japanese consumers no longer understand the 1990s-era logic of saving/going
The allure of an awards show is not the thrill of victory, but rather the anticipation--and of course the potential for a handjob.
Watchdog sniffs out the timing of the S.E.C.'s lawsuit against Goldman Sachs, suggests it was a diversionary tactic. Dozens of New York cabbies arrested in fare overcharging scheme that netted more than $235,000. Today at 11:48 a.m., midtown New Yorkers can watch solar
I am not a literary statistician or demographer, and am thus unqualified to assess how many women writers’ books the New York Times reviews as opposed to white men writers. And I couldn’t say what kind of review attention Algonquin Press’s wonderful story annual New Stories from the
Obama's pledge to close Gitmo has come up short--officials fear Republican wins could prevent it altogether. Residents of a Staten Island beach community fight eviction; the land was purchased by the city for a highway never built. Titanic officer's granddaughter reveals new reasons for the tragedy
Snippets from Woodward's forthcoming Obama book, in which nothing about Afghanistan looks good. Iran romances Caucasian neighbors to prevent U.S. and other countries from getting too chummy, too close. Paris offers carbonated-water fountains. City drawings by Chris Dent. Op: As it celebrates its 200th anniversary, Mexico is
Four digressions about obsession, venom, and life in a famous author’s orbit.
Twitter gives us a lifeline to friends far away and close, to celebrities we don't know but who we admire--to everyone, really. Well, almost everyone. This month's Of Recent Note is: Dead People You Wish Twittered Tell us who you'd follow, the reasons behind
The recession is over, but economists say it'll take at least as long to recover. Op: The impoverishment reflected in 19th-century novels still rings true for many people throughout the world. How politicians--so far, just Republicans--skirt regulations, create nonprofit clearinghouses for anonymous donators. Justice Dept. reveals the F.
For many sports fans, steroids ruined professional baseball. Luckily, Roger Clemens is pitching a cream-and-clear sitcom to cure their blues.
Ciudad Juárez newspaper asks crime leaders for publishing instructions after intern is killed. Special report on the devastation of journalism in Mexico (see also: how Colombian media faced danger). Dismaying account of a presidential debate in Haiti, where candidates have no specific plans. Accounting for $100 million spent far in
Maria Ines Manchego’s photographs record an urban landscape more García Lorca than Jane Jacobs. These are orphan images, memories without causes, that we carry with us as we navigate New York—a documentary of a city’s unconscious.
Obama's political advisers consider boosting Democrats by saddling G.O.P. candidates with the specter of the Tea Party. Though the Tea Partiers' advertising genie has brought recent, global attention to their movement, some question his roots in the G.O.P. "Fortunes spent to send
France sends soldiers to Niger's capital to retrieve kidnapped hostages. When these reports come in, I wonder if I'm the only human who will ever read them. Q&A with Pentagon's top arms buyer. Brief diary from Santo Domingo: bosoms, breezes, brightly colored
Six months after an earthquake shook Haiti to its core, our woman in Haiti seeks out what lies beneath the rubble and finds a history of violence and striking beauty.
"No Koran" dude gets his wish: mug in High Times for "displaying bravery in the face of intolerance." Seattle cartoonist who promoted "Everybody Draw Mohammed Day" "goes ghost" at F.B.I.'s insistence. Stewart and Colbert announce Oct. 30 rallies
White House divided over responding to a lawsuit hoping to stop the killing of an American-born al Qaeda-linked cleric. Video: Jon Stewart explains the war on terror to Tony Blair. Audiences don't connect with movies about contemporary wars, but video games about them are blockbusters. Instapaper for the
This summer, record highs turned the city into a pressure cooker—and its inhabitants didn’t suffer it mildly. Braving the brimstone to mail a package.
Politicians always say small businesses create jobs; they fail to mention that nearly all the jobs created are destroyed. From Japan's Zaitokukai to Norway's Progress Party: the Tea Parties of the world. Spain faces a housing crisis, with too many vacant buildings and too many banks
This is the time of year when football, America’s Game, the most insidious video game of all, overtakes large parts of the country’s population, most of whom fall into the classification known as human tubers—ostensibly sentient beings almost totally unaware of what is required to play this
Weeks ago, typhoon killed dozens and wrought havoc in North Korea, world now learns. Scientists struggle to understand why most East Asians have the "depression gene," but few get depressed. Unexpected visitors to Ground Zero: British white supremacists wearing a symbol of the Crusades. Inspiring apologies collected from
Runners run, readers read, and some even do both at the same time. A bookish guide to outpacing your insecurities.
Across religion, ethnicity and class, many terrorists have one thing in common: They're engineers. The Pope's impending visit to England sparks a lively business in papal memorabilia. Record numbers of lapsed Catholics in Belgium are rushing to the altar to "de-baptize." As France bans
Top one percent now captures 18 percent of the national income, with no more skills than workers beneath them. Op: The international aid system is easily manipulated, and always profits the elite. Chronicle of the rise of Foxconn, China's billion-dollar tech company, and the suicides that brought it
A grandmother's gift should not be undervalued, especially when it's delivered from beyond the grave.
Cuba to lay off more than 500,000 state workers, shift to a market-oriented system--this of course means Communism failed. No it doesn't, says Fidel Castro, who also said it does; in addition, the Cuban missile crisis "wasn't worth it all." At a Braves
State Dept. uncovers widespread adoption profiteering, corruption in Vietnam. Italy's weak institutions and high tolerance for rule-bending...have blurred the line between "Made in China" and "Made in Italy." Handbag maker Judith Leiber scours eBay for her work, in order to stock her Hamptons
A wonderful new book features the work of the Hand Drawn Map Association, a repository of maps ranging from drawings of simple directions to a map by Abraham Lincoln.
Academic physicians take big pharma's money for special treatment, great food, and ego stroking. Iraq to pay $400 million to Americans traumatized or tortured by Saddam. Despite industry of North Korea watchers, nobody knows age or appearance of its next leader. Inmates on death row are not told
If anyone feels the pain of Facebook’s constant privacy updates, it’s marital philanderers. But take the time to calibrate your profile, and you can put all that worry behind you.
Japan's hottest summer on record was a boon for nonalcoholic beer makers. Fascinating profile of the Damien Hirst market: deflated after his mega-auction, with many collectors burned. Tribute to self-experimenter Henry Head, who severed his own nerve endings to further research. Disgraced dentist's bite-mark analysis may
Middle school can be tough even if you don’t share your oddly spelled name with the class beauty. A tale of adolescent confusion and metamorphosis.
At the U.S. Open, winning shots are down, unforced errors are up, and the wind is to blame. "Our customers have never been concerned with why." MTA introduces new service change posters, "strained language" and all. West Vancouver officials install a new kind of speed
Obama comes out against Florida Koran-burning plan: "recruitment bonanza" for al-Qaeda. Op: U.S. should support Rwandans without boosting Kagame, whose intentions may not be known until 2017. Laredo kid became brutal Mexican drug lord; brother says he's got rules against killing enemies' families. Save
James Howard Kunstler, author of The Long Emergency and proprietor of the delightful web journal Clusterfuck Nation, is probably—based on his views of the oil peak, suburbia, and America’s gimme-something-for-nothing ethos—viewed as a kook, mountebank, or whatever is currently the worst thing to be (Muslim? gyspsy/Roma?
On the run from the kidnappers, the Golem remembers the child he first met when he too was new.
With Daley's surprise retirement in Chicago, few expect Rahm Emanuel to pass up a chance to run for mayor. New Jersey Transit enforces new chat-free coaches, where cell phones are verboten. From New Jersey to Seattle, taxpayers still foot the bill for stadiums that no longer exist. A
Ranchers say the cure for overgrazing is more grazing, improving the soil with ruminants. Terrifying account of the global "honor killing" crimewave killing upwards of 20,000 per year. Canada lost more working days last year to strikes than South Africa or France. Countries' paid vacation days
Highlighted by the 9/11 Commission, then seen again during Katrina and Rita, radio for public safety departments still doesn't exist. Louisiana leaders travel to Alaska to learn from those whose lives were rocked by the Valdez spill. F.D.A. considers approving the first genetically modified animal--the
Prisoners garden. Spies garden. Gardening is good for every soul. But a desire to garden doesn't a gardner make. A story of slaughtering plants.
France strikes over retirement-age bump; South Africa quits striking over pay adjustment. Netanyahu's ministers complain he's keeping them in the dark, giving them nothing to leak. Op: Contemporary war is a battle between the impersonal and personal--robots vs. suicide terrorists. Data-mining software works for counterterrorism; mapping
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, we partner with the Association for the Betterment of Sex to help three readers with their love quandaries.
Peace experts urge Abbas, Netanyahu, and Obama to have a Plan B. Austrian conservative party launches game targeting minarets and Muslims. Despite technology, printed propaganda remains Army's best communication tactic. United Nations now says 240 women, girls, and babies may have been raped in DR Congo town. Commodity
Op: No one is sure what the war's end means; few are willing to wager a guess. In Somalia's civil war, pirate gangs aid both the government and the insurgents--and become a political force. Researchers investigate the use of diabetes drug metformin for prevention of a
Each summer, certain songs are unofficially recognized as those that fill dance floors, roll down windows, and in general get this party started. Our staff and readers recall the best music from their best summers.
National Geographic pictures of Pakistan's floodwaters. Op: Pakistan's problem isn't too much water. It's too little water--and one day it could cause a war. In a Missouri prison, inmates find relief through quilting for charity. Twenty-five percent of wrongful convictions involve false
An ode to drunk shopping in New York City, regretted investments, and the transformative powers of faux-snakeskin leggings.
Apparently there’s been keening by a number of white women writers that the New York Times disproportionately touts white males—in this case, Jonathan Franzen and his new opus Freedom received some attention (disproportionate to the relevance of their complaints) here and there. Personally, I might have taken the
In the past seven years, life for Iraqis has gone from oppressed--but unambiguous--to chaotic and now, apprehensive. As some mosques invite F.B.I. agents to prayer services, Muslim leaders wonder if protection could be mistaken for surveillance. It's September, the numbers are in, and it was officially
Detained Yemenis' flying behavior "odd and unusual," but not related to terrorism, say U.S. officials. Fearing U.N. report charging it with mid-'90s genocide in Congo, Rwanda threatens to yank troops from Darfur. Packer: Obama's speech marked "a rare moment of
Investigators find L.A. County officials have covered up "potentially dozens" of child deaths from abuse or neglect. Iraq invaded Kuwait in August 1990; 20 years later, the U.S. withdraws forces from Iraq; who won? "It doesn't mean people just start running around and
An excerpt of Kevin Guilfoile's new novel, The Thousand, about a group of mavericks safeguarding and exploiting the secret teachings of Pythagoras.
Airline passengers detained for possible terrorist dry run; Pakistani two-star general yanked off flight for "inappropriate remarks." Methods behind the making of tables of tide times and heights. "World's most high-profile climate change skeptic" to U-turn and advocate for spending $100 billion annually. State
FRIDAY'S CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU FOR PLAYING! SPONSORED CONTEST: TOM MCCARTHY’S C In 2008, Tom McCarthy’s little-known novel Remainder battled to the final match of our Tournament of Books and became a house favorite. Since then, it’s been hailed by no less than
Though research may now be in peril, the first stem cell therapy trials in humans are fast approaching. Adam Clayton Powell IV takes aim at Charles Rangel, who usurped his father, who he mostly knew through letters. O.E.D. signals a full move to the web--its latest print edition
For how much Islam is discussed in the news, how many of us have read or tried to understand the Qur’an? Artist Sandow Birk writes out and illustrates each verse, drawing from the traditions of calligraphy and graffiti, showing we all share an essential humanity despite religious differences.
"Dropout factory" label works for colleges, too, and low-income minority students are disproportionately steered toward them. Two days after last week's anti-PowerPoint op-ed by a U.S. colonel, N.A.T.O. command sacked him. Second Mexican border-state mayor assassinated in two weeks. Op: Nationalism is
Chilean miners receive special diet to maintain wiggling weight, plus games and antidepressants. War consists largely of the endless tinkering with PowerPoint. Colonel's take on two months of doing nothing in Afghanistan. Long read: Afghanistan encounters with raw soldiers, small pieces of truth, bored gunners, and the Hash
Overly dramatic portrayals of drowning in movies and TV spread deadly disinformation. This and other tropes show that if you believe everything you see, it could kill you.
The Journal stitches BP documents, public testimony, and new interviews to recreate Deepwater Horizon's final hours. The farmer at the center of the salmonella outbreak has a history of legal tussles over selling contaminated eggs. "Where are the bulls?" The new land of opportunity for refugees:
Labor Day is coming soon, and along with it the start of school. But the TMN writers' children still have a little August reading to do, in this final installment of their book reports.
While Medvedev drank tea with Bono, Putin warned bears and shot a whale. Venezuela's population is the same as Iraq's, but its murder count is three times as high. Potentially to blame for China's epic traffic jam: King Coal. Due to China's
The salmonella outbreak may result in farmers heading beyond the F.D.A.'s standards, and vaccinating hens. Federal investigation of BP spill shows lack of communication to, qualifications among key crew members. Study shows the Gulf's petroleum-eating bacteria have feasted to the point of altering their
When you're used to regular doses of applause, giving up the stage for a 9-to-5 gig can produce acute withdrawal. Reclaiming past glories by singing backup.
Yet another mass grave found in northern Mexico. New report finds the Catholic church hushing a priest's role in a 1970s bombing in Ireland. Turkish politics adheres to a simple rule: wives and their moustache-wearing husbands like moustache-wearing leaders. China's 60-mile traffic jam may last until
Reading a Guardian article headlined “Jodi Picoult attacks favoritism towards ‘white male literary darlings’—Bestselling author attacks New York Times for narrow focus of its review coverage” had me checking to ascertain that I wasn’t somehow shanghaied and thrown back into the 20th century via a time machine. That
Judge blocks federal funding of human embryonic stem cells, potentially halting all ongoing research. F.D.A. says farms with recalled eggs were operating below health standards; critics say all farms are. Hair strands can reveal sleep cycle, Circadian rhythms. Reporter investigates cases of suicide via sleepwalking. Workers resent hardest-working
An excerpt of Jessica Francis Kane's forthcoming novel, The Report, about London's Bethnal Green disaster, where 173 people died in WWII's largest civilian accident.
Six parliament members among 32 dead near Somali presidential palace, following 40 killed on Monday. More on America's disappearing plastic refuse, which has quadrupled since 1980. Jerusalem light railway considers segregating carriages along gender lines. Beijing goes all "aw-shucks" upon learning it overtook Japan to become
Trapped Chilean miners say they're all OK; engineers say it will take four months to free them. When cities sell off airports and zoos to the private sector, they may fill budget gaps but could create future holes. Architects ask citizens to appreciate Germany's ugly buildings.
Bathing is an ordinary routine for most of us, but Manjari Sharma’s shower is more than a place for a daily lather and rinse. It’s a confessional, a temple, and, for believers, an incarnation of the river Ganges.
People want to move to Singapore and New Zealand, get out of Liberia and El Salvador. Currently thriving, Lance Armstrong's foundation and its supporters face the unknown as a federal investigation looms. After two years of negotiations, Israel allows surfboards to enter Gaza. Right-wing Israeli groups conduct Zionist
There will always be those songs that remind you of summer, that get into your brain and stick there – with your approval or without it – for years. Occasionally for lifetimes. Or perhaps it's a new entry, a summer jam just arrived this season in the unmistakable guise of
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. This week, a reader wonders about TMN's vision of the future of publishing.
Pakistan's floods herald a potential regional catastrophe; coffers are empty, rampant violence continues. Burma's first girl group imports western influences; junta demands song about electricity failures be changed. Parents in Johannesburg renting children to beggars for $3/day. We have a system of tax brackets well
What this year's candidates learned from the stimulus: be vague about job numbers. Even the worst apartment kitchen can be improved by buying some decent knives. 35 good lessons. Updated for those on house arrest: How to cook the Riker's Island carrot cake at home. Don&
Faced with a deadline to choose her major, our writer hunts down interview subjects to learn where their studies got them, no matter her mother's loathing of the liberal arts.
Obama declares victory, sort of, depending on how you look at it, in Iraq. Anyone who is going to Afghanistan is not some tourist who is going hiking. Afghan airline magazine tells the ugly truth. Discussion of Filipino basketball from introduction by the military to use as a political strategy.
Perhaps future anthropologists, stirring the entrails of our American civilization, will find it remarkable that in the third millennium of the Christian era, Time magazine placed novelist Jonathan Franzen on its cover. What I find remarkable is that anyone thinks the dying gasps of an endangered media species are news
Our man in Boston sits down to chat with author Jennifer Egan about her new novel, A Visit From the Goon Squad, and what it's like to write in PowerPoint.
A city in the southern Netherlands seeks to end drug tourism by keeping it legal only for the Dutch. How "three cups of tea" has become shorthand in the U.S. military for winning trust in Afghanistan. U.S. watermelon farmers focus on small, seedless "personal melons&
Australia's prime minister calls for a republic as soon as Queen Elizabeth dies. God save the queen: Jonathan Bell explains the distinction between English and British. Scavengers pull up Gaza Airport's runways to recover and sell gravel underneath. Nature sells on television--pet shows struggle outside America
In Westhampton Beach, N.Y., a new bookstore comes to town and a war begins. From the attic: Pitchaya Sudbanthad's 2005 profile of Brooklyn's Freebird Books. Park Slope residents are unsure whether the white-painted stroller is a memorial or a warning. Mailer waxes on graffiti: "
In the heat of a Carolina summer, nothing's better than a nice swim, assuming the pool doesn't explode.
New Jersey's Christie warns G.O.P. from going too far with mosque story; Gingrich goes Nazi. Wives and children of Catholic priests push to end celibacy ban. For the non-celibate: Erik Bryan explains whom you can date (flowchart included). How human psychology ensures the strictest religions continue
Boarded-up windows in abandoned brick buildings, grass growing from sidewalk cracks, rusty storefronts—the cycle of a city’s evolution and abandonment is familiar. Artist Peter Feigenbaum reimagines these ghettos in miniature, using components from toy train sets and more.
The week ahead in news: natural disasters in Russia, Pakistan, and China. Gaza doctor writes anti-hate book after three daughters were killed by an Israeli shell. Why it's hard to return looted art: centuries of wartime theft mean few can identify the original owner. I'm not
Violence spreads across Iraq as attacks escalate during Ramadan; U.S. military says it's an attempt to shake confidence in the police. "As a person I was paralyzed." Haiti's president tells how the quake shook him. South Korean president suggests a tax to fund
Bulgaria hopes its John the Baptist bones will attract tourists and their money. Post-Sept. 11 funding expanded the Coast Guard's duties to include oil spills; Deepwater revealed gaps in oversight. Behind the Economist's advertising, which "tugs at the insecurities and ambitions of the status-seeking reader.
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. A reader wants to know if it's OK to date a distant relative. We answer by way of flowchart.
Putin co-pilots plane and dumps 24 tons of water on forest fires outside Moscow. Assessment of the current global orangutan population in light of mankind's tendency to hunt. Nature report says hominins used tools to butcher meat 3.4 million years ago. See also: Blooper reel from The
Aril: “an extra seed-covering, typically colored and hairy or fleshy, e.g., the red fleshy cup around a yew seed.”
Early findings in a U.S. investigation show driver error, not auto defects, was behind most of Toyota's accident woes. "The battle has shifted to the states." The health care war rages on, and insurers are leading the charge. In 2006, attacks by patients or their
Obama and Democrats see good news in Tuesday's primaries, suggesting 2010 storyline rewrite. Explanation of the jobs of Obama's advisers. She told a reporter she could end her husband's career with a single interview. Story of Newt Gingrich's political career, as told
With economic recovery slowing, Fed warns of deflation--what's Japanese for "schadenfreude?" U.S. attorneys say day care workers bribed N.Y. officials, stole millions from child care fund. In Jamaica, criminals target returning retirees, waiting until their pension checks arrive from abroad. Steven Slater's
When pregnancy showed up unbidden, a writer demands a second test, and a third, and a fourth. But then she saw a result many women spend years searching for.
Last week’s version of this bulletin included notice of Tony Judt’s latest opus. Sadly, this week’s news is that Judt has passed on, as some express it, to his greater glory. Here’s the New York Timesobituary. My colleague Mike Smith at this fortress of truth and
After his odd job draws to a close, the Golem, still on protection duty, realizes a new task lies ahead.
As deal nears to guarantee BP's $20 billion payout, U.S. is reluctant to partner up with the oil giant. New York colleges begin reporting back to their students' high schools, informing them what they forgot to teach. "You have to be acceptable-looking, but being gorgeous
China, Russia, India, and Turkey pursue investments with Iran that defy sanctions. There's a mosque inside the Pentagon! Sharia fairy dust powder shrouds D.C.! Hitchens: Opponents of a Ground Zero mosque are borrowing from the playbook of Muslim cultural blackmail. Video: Christian charity raising money to feed
Though deportations are increasing, the White House won't bounce students who arrived in the U.S. without papers as children. In one of the largest arms deals ever, the U.S. will sell F-15s to the Saudis--though without weapons systems opposed by regional allies. Israeli comics conference to
Known to millions as a half-Vulcan science officer, Leonard Nimoy’s day-to-day life—as a husband, father, and photographer—is a secret, overshadowed by his role on an iconic TV show.
Heatwave and wildfire smog double the usual number of bodies in Moscow's morgues. Wheat prices hit highest level in the U.S. in two years after Putin bans all exports. How Churchill may have caused the Bengal famine that killed three million for lack of wheat. Concluding of
Accompanied by a nervous, loudmouth dog, our writer sneaks into a hidden, underground city where Britain hides thousands of extremely dull documents.
Vatican continues to believe its abuse crisis is a question of housecleaning. It amounts to our playbook for the past several years. Pentagon tells WikiLeaks to yank the logs. In case you missed it, Chechnya's top terrorist, apparently no longer tired, has un-retired. Quick, insightful profile of Rwanda&
An explanation of "eureka" moments and the science of insight. Historian Michael Bellesiles is still writing, despite an ethics scandal surrounding his removing guns from the Civil War. Stories of writers who only achieved posthumous success. Q&A with an architect turned Lego-certified builder. Giles Turnbull interviews
Russia moves radioactive material away from wildfires. Story of the night Naomi Campbell met Charles Taylor, and why Mia Farrow decided to talk about it. U.S. military creates special comic to teach Japanese children about political alliances. Traditionally, actors do better than musicians in politics, but hip-hop's
Modern youth's so-called "narcissism epidemic" is an overreaction to pseudoscience. Why not keep aging it until it achieves the consistency of room-temperature butter? Is aged beef overrated? A new bias test accurately predicts relationship length--try it here. Iranian religious leader declares music "not compatible"
Sharing a bed requires rules. An important addendum comes along well after the blanket allowances and closet zombies have been settled.
Iran says it can shop elsewhere if Russia won't deliver its promised missile systems. Four killed at Israel-Lebanon border; initial U.N. report backs Israel. Hezbollah claims "extreme restraint"; Israeli source suggests shooting was to shift attention away from Hariri inquiry. Video shows French police manhandling
I realized that people respect nonfiction. But they read novels. E.O. Wilson on the influence of science and social activism. Today's long read: How the father-son political duo of Mario and Andrew, now on the brink of a power shift, rose to prominence. Automatic gratuities make tipping
More than a few people have expressed to me some inchoate feeling that, yes, August is upon us. This seems to be an expression of discomfort with the rapidity with which the current season is falling away. And in my view, a minor symptom of a larger distemper which is,
From the awkward phase through the sweater phase to the riot grrrl phase and the New York phase, growing up with a First Daughter I’ve never met.
Anticipating election violence, Kenya sends 18,000 police to the Rift Valley. Three million affected by Pakistan floods, 1,400 killed with 27,000 still trapped. Netherlands becomes first N.A.T.O. ally to pull combat troops out of Afghanistan. Mexico rescues kidnapped cameramen, kidnappers escape. Chechnyan militant leader/
Redford on the energy bill: This is one of the many times when average citizens may be ahead of our leaders. As soon as we eat, we feel the need to make some noise about it. Simon Schama on the interconnections between language and food. The story of a 19th-century
Over the past 20 years, photographer Catherine Opie’s various bodies of work depict the ways singular identities bring us together and isolate us from one another.
Naomi Campbell to testify whether she received an uncut diamond from Liberia's Charles Taylor. Once in five years, a major event takes place on the Israel-Lebanon front. Four years have passed since 2006. Thousands of children in Gaza break their own record for the number of kites flown
The worst summer employment is a three-month slog. But sometimes even temporary jobs offer permanent lessons. Our staff and readers share what they’ve learned.
So long, Peter Orszag; index of remaining "beautiful," mostly white, thin people remaining in D.C. Op: "The Senate's retreat from cap and trade might lead to a carbon tax. For now, it leaves a dreadful mess." Searchable Washington Post database of companies involved
How engineers stabilized the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Exiled from Iran, two brothers continue to produce controversial art in Dubai. Saudi feminist poet defies death threats. Analyzing the faith-intelligence correlation, researchers ask subjects if their religion is the "one true religion." Historians can't agree why portion
Ten years after their first conversation, author David Mitchell and our man in Boston discuss 18th-century Japan, shoplifting from other novels, and Mitchell's annual Christmas party.
Grim sampling of environmental fiascos depicts China's losing fight against pollution. After Chinese news chief disappears, rumors abound he defected to Britain. Story behind the publication of the Afghanistan logs. Story of Mo Farah's journey from Somalian refugee to European champion. Fifteen years later, Kids remains
History of meteors' descent from cosmic bodies to floating rocks. A new study finds strong friendships can provide as many health benefits as quitting cigarettes. We realize it's what we've wanted all along. An analysis of literary endings. The Man Booker Prize nominees are announced.
Pictures of the Islamabad plane crash; all 152 feared dead. Hamas considering a draft in Gaza. Cameron says again that Palestinians are imprisoned in Gaza, drawing fire. Oliver Stone apologizes for claiming Jews control the media. Photos of Putin at a motorcycle rally riding self-described "tricked-out bike." Art
Inquire of any observer within reasonable proximity of his or her wits and I doubt any would say that last week represented a hopeful moment in the life of our ailing republic. You, of course, already know the other symptoms—imperialistic hubris run amuck; “too big to fail” capitalist hyenas
New fatwa permits women in burqa-banning countries to wear only a headscarf. Researchers find continuing education delays dementia by 11% per year. See also: Eight notable commencement speeches and one written by 14 people. From Apriums to Peacotums--which are the same thing--fruit breeders deliberate hybrid crop names. The history of
The Biblioracle will be open today from 1 to 3 p.m. After explaining the secret behind oracling, the Biblioracle takes the last five books you read and tells you what to read next.
Following the McChrystal affair, WikiLeaks documents put "more nails into the coffin" of the White House's war. Op: If you're surprised by the WikiLeaks documents, you're an idiot! And no comparing them to the Pentagon Papers! The American people are going to
Germany's Love Parade permanently cancelled after 19 died in an overcrowded tunnel. Biological explanation of why the poor make different life decisions from the rich. In the Bronx, Ian Frazier observes a sculpture kept graffiti-free with a battery-powered sander. There are four stations in the tree, and you
Inspired by photographs of Sicilian catacombs, Jack Burman has spent over a decade scouring Europe and South America, among other places, for the dead. (Some images may be disturbing to some viewers.)
Afghan war logs: "Pakistan aids insurgency"; "innocents pay the price"; "well, we knew as much." Over 75,000 secret reports, the war logs are one of the U.S.'s biggest leaks. Initial roundup of logs-related links. After BP admits Photoshopping its cleanup
Even the worst summer job can teach you something. For instance, always carry an epi-pen. Vaseline is not a substitute for sunblock. On garbage day, take the bus. Summer jobs: Sometimes, there's no knowing how bad it is until it's behind you and you can look
Throughout the 20th century, life expectancy in the developed world increased by 30 years--two new theories on how to push it further. At the current rate of data explosion, all internet domains will be claimed in about one year. Using underground X-rays, scientists discover a wooden Stonehenge within visible distance
Improving on his previous gifts to Brits, Obama gives Cameron a signed Ed Ruscha lithograph. Political prisoners in Kenya awarded compensation for torture during Moi's tenure. BP workers prepare to evacuate the oil spill site ahead of tropical depression. Pre-spill, confidential survey of Deepwater workers found many were
A conversation with Australian novelist Richard Flanagan about the erosion of book culture, Nicole Kidman's genius, and souls that are ever underline-able.
Greece pays drivers $130,000 a year to run trains that are frequently empty. Researchers launch three-month, 8,000-mile trip from Italy to China with driverless cars. Wells Fargo ATM manager explains difficulty of maintaining machines in Antarctica. Unions hire minimum-wage workers to host protests. Part three of the Post&
Playboy tests "read it for the articles" theory, launches work-safe website. Digital analysis reveals that Michelangelo drew a brain stem inside a fresco of God. Finally: It takes 3,481 licks to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll pop. It is only when you scored high
Clinton announces new sanctions against North Korea. Better Business Bureau gives Hamas an A- rating and Starbucks an F. Moscow's drinking-and-diving deaths brushed aside by uproar around a flying donkey. Op: Supreme Court nominees should be required to discuss the larger issues of constitutional philosophy. U.S. activists
Summer yawns ahead, hot and school-free. What better way to spend the afternoon than with a book? The TMN writers' children fill us in on their latest reads and rethink the endings.
Kafka's never-before-seen manuscripts create ownership dispute between his supposed inheritors and Israel. Account of the advantages of the beauty bias in every aspect of life. Analysts try to crack the identity of whoever bought all the cocoa beans in Europe. Judge upholds right to falsely claim a Purple
Not being a statistician, I am not offering this as a fact, but my sense is that there are more short story collections being published than ever. And given the distortions of time that obtain in our enveloping warp-speed world, one would think that short fiction would be the preferred
David Cameron explained his plan yesterday to build a "big society" and no one understood a word of it. A translation, with help from droid Margaret Thatcher.
Activists fight law requiring jailed women to be shackled during birth. Female Afghan governor rejects idea that women should "be sacrificed" in return for a deal with the Taliban. Outstanding: Unedited rushes of everything shot by the BBC in Afghanistan over the last 30 years. Factory pot farms
How the pound sign--aka the "number key" or the "hash"--got its name. Scientists say cooking is responsible for brain development. Ben Folds and Nick Hornby collaborate on "Levi Johnston's Blues." From the attic: "The Secret Journal of Levi Johnston"
If Salvador Dalí and Paul Rubens painted Saudi kings while eating caviar and listening to Elvis, the collaboration might look like Ralph Wolfe Cowan’s portraits of heads of state, iconic celebrities, and buff, young models.
Last month was the warmest June on record globally; extreme heat boils the United States and Europe. France did not say it would reimburse Haiti for its independence fee, says France, repudiating hoax. Gallery director explains why Berlin is more serious than other cities and there's no reason
University of Texas to rename dorm named after KKK member, cuts down sign for now. Researchers find Facebook appears to aid, not lower, GPAs. Why distant Facebook friends have the most positive influence. See also: The politics of Facebook. Sociologist believes the MySpace-Facebook exodus is a white flight. He'
Sports are stupid. Beautiful. Dull. Transcendent. Most of all, they're more than just games. We assembled sports writers, critics, freaks, and authors to tell us why.
Running from violence, 40,000 people have fled their homes in DR Congo since June. Afghans to form local forces--"not militias"--to fight Taliban insurgents in remote areas. Argentina becomes first country in Latin America to legalize gay marriage. Alabama's Tacky Jacks preps for its
No one knows what will happen to The Beaver, Jodie Foster's new film starring Mel Gibson, where Gibson plays a suicidal man whose life is changed by a hand puppet.
Analysis of chatter suggests Middle East indirect talks are not going well. Instapaper: What "sanctions against Iraq" really meant on the ground. Fighting Russia's heatwave with vodka and swimming, 233 people drowned in Moscow last week. Distrust numbers in the news; even rigorous-seeming statistics conceal squishy
A trillion is a lot, especially when you consider the billions of dollars we're throwing at Afghanistan. The arresting quality of hearing angry women speak, and what Obama could learn. The good news is that someone still wants to spy on us. The bad news is that it&
When you're looking to replace the radiator for a V-8 engine, it can help to have cousins you can count on. The tale of a risky family connection.
Violence and riots continue for a third night in Belfast after controversial parades. Soldiers in Fort Bliss, Texas, are statistically at greater risk at home than while deployed in Iraq. China's People's Daily says the Taliban is training "monkey terrorists" to kill Americans. No
It took BP a decade of hubris and near-misses to become the second largest in the industry--then came Deepwater Horizon. Op: When caught, drunk drivers can expect jail time--let's set that precedent for reckless CEOs. An inquiry into human fairness, and why its pursuit causes so much anger.
The notion that insanity is the only rational response to a mad and maddening world—a notion romantically articulated by exotic psychiatric adventurer and trailblazer R.D. Laing in the euphoric phase of the Vietnam War era (“Insanity: a perfectly rational adjustment to an insane world”)—still holds some allure
Only 28,000 of 1.5 million displaced Haitians have moved into new homes. First-person account from one of Sunday's attacks in Uganda. Military rule 2.0: Now that the Cold War's over, militaries achieve coups behind the scenes. Over the last ten years, I'
The Haitian government hasn't received the money it was promised by the donors. Haiti, six months later. Studies find computers don't make good on their educational promise, even when placed in low-income households. An inquiry into our information glut and why facts are useless in creating
German photographer Julian Faulhaber captures public spaces—supermarkets and parking garages—in the moments between their construction and when they are opened for public use.
Police blame Somalia's al-Shabab militants for World Cup-timed attacks that killed 64 in Uganda. Trade numbers mean one Russian spy is worth 2.5 American spies. John le Carré on the swap: "Once upon a time spies had motives." King James's move to Miami
In Cuba, bloggers face reprisals and internet access is governed by mysterious forces. Even telephones can't be trusted.
The day after being roped into his latest protection duties, The Golem faces new threats—and a history of unstoppable devotion.
Cuba's bloggers could revolutionize the island, if only they could get online. Llew Hinkes visits Cuba, attempts to use the internet, and hears heavy breathing on the line. Ratio of men to women among living cryonicists is 3:1; support networks help handle marital strife. Science went from
A pro author challenges a pro tennis player to a tournament. A story of dueling, drumming, and one extraordinary victory.
Lawyer suspects cigarette manufacturer Phillip Morris is involved with Russian spy ring corruption schemes. Why assumptions about Dunning-Kruger syndrome--when people are unaware of their dumbness--are wrong. Religious leaders worry iPhones may be diluting worship. Word association game predicts relationship length by revealing partners' true feelings. "That's
Japan lacks phrase for "racial profiling," much less an understanding familiar to Americans. Op: The concept of full birthright citizenship is ripe for overhaul. From both sides, this year's most popular political put-down: "You just don't get it." Referees who read from
As record-breaking heat bears down on New York, ConEd asks customers to turn off "nonessential" appliances. My friend said that even if I didn't pay my bill, it's illegal for ConEd to turn off my electricity. The Non-Expert responds. Inquiry into how ideas of
U.S.-Mexico governors' conference cancelled over Arizona immigration law. Obama wants direct talks to begin before the end of Israel's settlement freeze. Israel's Army Radio says U.S. to sell Israel nuclear technology. More American retailers open foreign shops, counting on overseas profits to
When you share your life with a reality TV editor, you learn that reality often winds up on the cutting-room floor.
The summer (and beyond) book preview from The Millions includes TMN's Doerr, Guilfoile, and Baldwin. Tin House Books is now accepting unsoliciated manuscripts--if they're accompanied by a bookstore receipt. Related: A custom-made receipt to send in with your Tin House submission. A collection of odds and
Having recently resumed my status, as Facebook would state it, of being “in a relationship,” and having adopted a three-month-old Labrador-Australian Cow Dog hybrid named Beny (about whom you will no doubt hear more about in the future), I find myself again more paying attention to the endless stream of
Times investigation into Israeli settlers funded by tax-exempt American charity. Political leaders' pay ranked by ratio to their country's GDP per person. David Brooks is a Republican Party of one, adored by the White House as "the persuadable opposition." Pin-up examples of Japan's
New take on the Russian spies lacking secrets: They are mostly bored parents. Eight percent of Russians believe they'll win the World Cup--despite not playing. There is always time to revisit pictures of Putin, man of action. Petraeus loves the idea of turning Afghanistan into a "modern
A spate of arrests reveals Russian spies have been living undetected in the U.S., posting on Facebook—and tending to their gardens.
Today BP's slick became the Gulf of Mexico's largest-ever oil spill. Ft. Lauderdale brothers bottle, sell "oil spill water," donate profits to animal protection. New Orleans chef slaps BP with a lawsuit, faces blogging critics who say she scrimps on seafood. Within days of
Latin American economies surging forward due to deepening engagement with Asia. Netherlands offered to clean most of the BP spill for free; U.S. declined because "most" wasn't sufficient. Alleged psychic octopus predicts Germany victory over Argentina. Supposedly meritocratic France to crack open its deeply non-meritocratic
If gas was free, vacation days were unlimited, and your schedule was as open as the road ahead, where would you go? Our staff and readers unfold their maps.
Integrating the bulletins from the real world (for lack of a better phrase) with the books one chooses to read, and the movies and videos one views, is no small task, especially for dedicated, inveterate readers. As a youth I recall being able to compartmentalize the characters and storylines, or
In Senate hearings, Republicans attack Kagan by lobbing potshots at Thurgood Marshall. While on paper Kagan appears to be made out of, well, paper, in person she lights up a room. A study suggests those who are reserved are more likely to become violent when drunk. Scientists suspect Tut'
There are plenty of good reasons to ride a train cross-country, but for our correspondent and his attention index, hitting the rails has one purpose: to escape the merciless internet.
Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah: "There are two countries in the world who do not deserve to exist: Iran and Israel." Op: Arabs who love the idea of Palestinians as permanent victims dump on Fayyad's state-building. Half of Afghanistan's 476 women prisoners were
A deep dive into the many reasons New Yorkers now live longer than other Americans. How the latest New York subway closures and other city proposals will keep the working poor working and poor. For straphangers looking for love, the L is your best bet--and the site of the most
A new poem in which Descartes is proven wrong, and T. Rex’s Marc Bolan appears in a dream and starts thieving.
Feds bust identity-thieving, Morse Code-using Russian spy ring; Russians reject allegations. Georgia claims it's under a U.S. arms embargo; more likely, no one wants to upset Russia. Profile of Tolstoy's grandson, fallen from aristocracy to a $213 monthly income. Israel opposes Russia's recent
Young adult novelists Lauren Mechling and Laura Moser are currently publishing their new novel—a meta-vampire story called My Darklyng about the writer and fans of a series of vampire novels—in serial installments on Slate. In addition to the serial novel, Mechling and Moser have upped the “meta” ante
This seems to be the season for the publication of some of my favorite writers. (Actually, I think every season is.) Alan Furst’s 10th novel, Spies of the Balkans (Random House), quells any fears that the author might be, as they say, phoning it in. Set in Salonika, Greece,
Americans believe life in 2050 includes a cure for cancer and a devastated environment. There are more than 15 million refugees around the world--the search for asylum is only getting more treacherous. How Murdoch's TV channel illegally bridges Iran and the West. "The great thing about omitting
Photographer Eirik Johnson documents the communities and industries, specifically timber and salmon, of the Pacific Northwest. In his most recent book, he reveals the austere, quiet beauty that persists amidst the loss and decline of northwestern landscapes and towns.
Politico and Time Inc. suggest Rolling Stone was to blame for their theft of its McChrystal story. When Rolling Stone can topple a general, we know Afghanistan is today's Vietnam. See also: From Taylor to McChrystal, American history is filled with wayward generals. Stalin taken down in his
Australia elects its first woman Prime Minister. Media lessons learned from McChrystal's blowout: never, ever, agree to a magazine profile. The Kremlin takes to Tweeting. The quiet truth about terrorism: most terrorists are bumbling idiots. Disney World sees now as the time to begin selling mcmansions. Beauties-only dating
Marigolds wither, periwinkles rot, and a tree mysteriously dribbles cat urine. Our writer is in over her head, once more, with plants.
Telegraph redoes the New Yorker's "20 under 40" with all Brits. Federal judge to decide if cheerleading is a sport under Title IX; so far, signs seem to point to yes. Inside the three-year fitness, psychology, and strategy prep of World Cup referees. Tell us today!
For most of us, assigned summer reading is a distant memory. For the TMN writers' children, however, it's time to crack the books--and inform us about scary bits, cover designs, and authors' advances.
Federal judge blocks drilling ban; Interior Secretary vows to issue new order. Karzai endorses McChrystal in order to slap Eikenberry. Catalogue of generals who recently faced White House heat. The complete Rolling Stone McChrystal article. The lesson of Hastings's article is not: "Get rid of McChrystal."
When things go bad, it turns out, multinationals turn into homebodies. How the oil spill made BP British again. Five theories on why everyone is moving to Texas. Today from noon to 2 p.m., ET, the Biblioracle returns--list your last five books and he'll tell you what
The Biblioracle will be open today from noon to 2 p.m. Still recovering from an outpouring of requests during his last appearance, the Biblioracle will take the last five books you read and tell you what to read next.
Giant diamond find in Zimbabwe, long looted by Mugabe's ministers, challenges the anti-conflict-stones Kimberly Process. McChrystal receives unhappy calls from his bosses after Rolling Stone runs story of his unhappiness. To fight falling birth rate, Taiwan fosters matches between civil servants, sends ministry employees home to baby-make. Just
Hospitals are still unsure why they're facing increasing cases of delirium among elderly patients. F.D.A. pushes drugmakers to investigate whether their existing medicines may also aid rare disorders. Why all drugs cause the same side effects: advertising and serotonin. Microbiologist claims excessive consumption will cause humans
From the late 19th century until the 1990s, retratos pintados (“painted portraits”) were common in rural northeastern Brazil: family portraits retouched to improve appearances.
Rig worker says both BP and Transocean knew about leak weeks before the explosion. But it isn't fair or equal. South African courts sentence severely during the World Cup. Inside Jamaica's domino culture and its dream for the game to become an Olympic sport. Whether or
For teenagers along the Carolina coast, time passes with a little bit of work, healthy amounts of fishing, and a lot of goofing around.
Story of the BP rig workers--those who died and those who were saved. Los Angelenos search for championship trophy under burning cars. Video: Obama joins long line of presidents who preached on TV against foreign oil. Utah executes prisoner with firing squad. Humans convey sadness in music and speech the
After receiving threats, theater owners in Tokyo and Osaka cancel showings of The Cove. How Japan's marketing team, averse to its overseas market, has led to the demise of the country's cool factor. More on the "Prince Charles problem": France raises its retirement age--though
Bus lines across New York are being rerouted this summer, if not cancelled--and where buses go, so goes the city.
Preparing for Capitol Hill grilling, BP backs away from comment about caring for "small people." Google turns its CitizenTube blog into the YouTube News Feed (see here). Fascinating interview with Clara Rojas, former FARC prisoner, about freedom and jungles. The sea is one world, and the sewage is
If gas was free, vacation days were unlimited, and your schedule was as open as the road ahead, where would you go? This month's Of Recent Note is: Fantasy Road Trips Tell us the trip of your dreams: Where would you go? (Alaska? Atlantis?) How would you get
I think even libertarians recognize certain kinds of speech ought to be restrictable. Legal scholar discusses the state of civil liberty. A profile of culinary anthropologist, diner historian Richard Gutman. How personalities foreshadow family size--the more neurotic you are, the more you procreate. The World Cup will cost Brazil $1.
Maybe the only thing you can depend on these days, in what was to have been our brave new world (did I miss it?), is the predictability of those benighted outlets that coalesce to form the corporate behemoth inaccurately labeled “mainstream media.” Articles on beach books or summer reading, which
Ayaan Hirsi Ali: Those who reject the ideas of political Islam are in touch with Muslims on a local level. Obama's strategy has been in place for less than six months. Why reaching conclusions in Afghanistan is premature. Times reporter fights bloggers over claims his Afghan minerals story
Where people build homes, birds sometimes build nests—and there’s no guarantee cohabitation of the species will be idyllic.
They are more than twice as likely to report having struggled with substance abuse. Study explores sperm donor children's suffering. Apple juice can reduce anxiety, delusion in Alzheimer's patients. Freakonomist discusses health reform, Wall Street, and how to motivate students to do well. A common sunscreen
Dear Mr. Erard, I remember my first, too. It was my first quarter as a history graduate student, and I was grading for a class on the Dark Ages. It was a paper on the Black Death; the student in question began his introduction with an especially lucid and off-topic
The morning of June 15, 1904, promised a day of fun for more than a thousand residents of the Lower East Side. In an instant, it turned deadly.
Waxman v. Big Oil will see the entire industry go on trial today. Obama to give his first Oval Office address tonight, likely to provide "realism and hope" about BP. Also: Tonight's speech will show how committed Obama plans to be about energy legislation. Op: Obama
Over the past decade, we've learned diseases' genetics and pharmaceutical companies are more complex than previously thought. As it does with every 9/11 comparison, the Daily News called up some 9/11 family members to see who was upset about the remark. Philip Graham remembers eating
In partnership with local education officials, Transparency International Pakistan asked children across the nation to depict corruption in a drawing competition to show a “Child’s View of Corruption.”
Afghanistan's billion-dollar minerals--a curiously timed piece of good news? Karzai's ousted intelligence chief says the Afghan leader's given up on N.A.T.O. and is swinging for the Taliban and Pakistan. Turkey shows more assertive--if resentful--foreign policy, yet E.U. membership remains the
Steve Almond is the author of the sentence, “I was a twelve-year-old whose hobbies were shoplifting and pyromania.” He writes beautiful fiction, and if you don’t know it you might dig it. Last month he published a nonfiction book about music, though he freely admits to thinking glissando is
Mandela to miss opening ceremony after his great-granddaughter dies returning home from a World Cup concert. New oil-spill estimate says the Valdez disaster is flowing into the Gulf every 10 days. You want the oil? You clean up the mess. Britons, frustrated by stock losses, dislike being demonized for BP&
There's a lake at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico that's over 100 miles wide and at least 400 to 500 feet deep of black oil. Government officials follow BP's policy of opacity, restrict press access to Gulf oil spill. World Cup losses
Our man in Boston goes the distance with author and New Yorker editor David Remnick in a conversation about President Obama, magazine publishing, and American Idol.
Security Council backs new sanctions against Iran; securing Russian and Chinese votes weakened measure. Iran is losing Russia, China, and all those countries that matter. Obama to make reassuring eye contact with every last American. Obama's former Upper West Side apartment for rent--only $1,900 a month. Nitty
Berreby: Plans for Israel's Museum of Tolerance are failing because tolerance is a form of hypocrisy. Biblical beekeepers raised bees that produced eight times as much honey as their Syrian counterparts. As Latin America becomes cosmopolitan, it lets go of a literary staple: the dictator novel. At some
“From the day Samuel Halevi pointed at the little boy lecturing to a passel of scholars and said, ‘He carries a bright flame. No one must put it out,’ I was a protector.” The Golem falls into an old role.
Israel makes hard and soft efforts with China to win sanctions on Iran. Political center shows strength after primary night in multiple states. Big Rolling Stone piece blames Bush and Obama for allowing "the world's most dangerous oil company [to] get away with murder." Obama insists
Oil spill reaches Louisiana pelican sanctuary, founded to help save the state bird from endangerment. The story of an Atlanta man whose charmed life was cut short by H1N1, and who departed in a Viking funeral. "When you see people...carrying McDonald's bags and an X-box 360.
Everyone remembers their first, especially English professors. A professor confronts a student he busted for cheating—and who caused him to completely rethink plagiarism.
Beginning in May, Alabama fire chief began his own anti-spill plan, defying BP and bureaucracy. Kim Jong-il oversees government shake-up, consolidating power to squash flourishing private markets. China offers rare complaint after a North Korean border guard kills three people. Hass: China will continue to dominate headlines; turn to its
Helen Thomas agrees she's not the best choice to give the commencement address at Walt Whitman High School. Psychologists diagnose Darth Vader with borderline personality disorder. Researchers armed with a laser find meditation preoccupies the mind, dulls pain. For nearly two centuries, a small Shiite sect called the
Using a Renaissance practice of wood inlay known as marquetry, Alison Elizabeth Taylor reproduces scenes of foreclosure in Las Vegas.
Fans crushed outside World Cup warm-up match in South Africa. Recent political news written by an academic; Israel's news written by authors. News stories to anticipate this week. Bullet-pointed scenario where today's current events could become World War III. Reagan's national security adviser remembers
Whether ruining a perfect game or mistaking your mother-in-law for a man, you can’t be expected to get every call right.
Obama cancels Asia trip to focus on oil spill; Free Gaza says new ship is on schedule. Wieseltier: Israel does not need enemies: it has its government. Long Island prodigy recommends plugging the oil leak with tires. Baghdad's U.S. embassy reports property worth millions gone missing. Six
Tom Rachman’s debut novel The Imperfectionist (Dial Press) obviously makes use of his newspaper experience working at the Associated Press as a reporter in Sri Lanka and India, and as an editor at the International Herald Tribune in Paris. Perhaps it’s my inattention, but Rachman’s fictional international,
When your publisher won't pay you for translating a popular German guide to anal sex, don't take the law into your own hands--take 'em to court. But which one?
I’ve been meaning to mention this since I noted the recent monograph on the inimitable Molly Ivins, that there is a one-woman play entitled Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins, which hopefully will be coming to a theater near you. Consider this: Ms. Turner
Marilynne Robinson (Gilead) is, of course, a gifted novelist and a highly-regarded mentor at the University of Iowa’s Writer’s Workshop. She is no stranger to nonfiction, having published two collections of essays, Mother Country and The Death of Adam. Now comes Absence of Mind (Yale University Press) in
David Shields’s Reality Hunger, which claims to be a manifesto of sorts, is an interesting read—around 600 epigrams illustrating something or other about the demise of fiction. Actually, I am still not sure what it claims, which may cause you to stop reading right here. I have talked
As you already are aware, due to my diligent investigations and conscientious opening of my emails, Melville House Publishing created the first ever Moby Awards for (the biggest thing to hit publishing since blurbs) book trailers. The best and worst winners are available here, and there is also some snippy
As I have pointed out somewhere else, the intellectual dustup surrounding the varied reception of Muslim thinkers Tariq Ramadan and Hirsi Ali, mentioned in Paul Berman’s The Flight of Intellectuals, has taken place mostly in the rarified heights of our smarter periodicals. Carlin Romano has his say, commending Berman
To that small but mighty cadre of the readers concerned with literature in translation, the republication of Suzanne Jill Levine’s seminal The Subversive Scribe: Translating Latin American Fiction (Dalkey Archive Press) is (or will be) welcome news. Levine, herself an able and well-regarded translator of Latin masters such as
Once more, Obama's supporters want him to rage, rage in a crying for a fight. Economist says Israel must restore idealism and common sense "before it's too late." Op: All hail Netanyahu, blind captain flying blindfolded passengers. Round-up of activists' accounts of the
For centuries, New Yorkers have looked for relief to the trees of Governors Island--nearby, but a forbidden world away. A new plan to make it more accessible won't make them feel any better.
The precautionary closing of oyster beds, shrimping grounds, and crab habitats where oil has been spotted has idled most of the fishermen. As tar patties arrive in Alabama, so do federal officials, who offer locals more sympathy than answers. A look back at plans for the Dolphin Embassy, a mobile
Israel braced to prevent a second flotilla from reaching Gaza. Barak: In the Middle East, there is no mercy for the weak. Op: Gaza today constitutes an open-air prison. Ashton Kutcher plans to explain the difference between Azerbaijan and Armenia, since most Americans don't know that difference. This
The first diagnosis can shatter your life—until the condition that follows glues it back together.
Teddy was spontaneous with both affection and self-reproach. Inside the life (and suicide) of brilliant Dalton student Teddy Graubard. Despite a booming business and cultural mania, self-improvement can be harmful, and the psychological equivalent to self-inflicted wounds. In higher education, inflation is going up and the value of education is
I must confess I hardly know where to begin in talking about what is destined to be seen as Anthony Julius’s magnum opus: Trials of the Diaspora: A History of Anti-Semitism in England (Oxford U Press). Julius, who was the defense attorney in the infamous Irving vs. Lipstadt Holocaust
Supreme Court to determine whether protesting veterans' funerals is protected under the First Amendment. Q&A on the flotilla raid; Israeli ministers likely to probe; hundreds of activists held. Swedish crime writer Mankell flying home post-flotilla ride. We were expecting the Israeli army to stop us, but we
Mary HK Choi, former editor-in-chief of the sadly defunct Missbehave, is now a contributing writer at The Awl and Complex. Also, it’s been recently announced that she will be writing a series for Marvel comics. Lady Deadpool no. 1 will be in stores July 21 and will focus on
Not all oil-soaked animals in Louisiana deserve saving. Our writer attends fashion shows, braises venison, and heads into the bayou to understand the varmint of New Orleans: nutria.
A closer look at the M.T.A.'s new subway map, along with side-by-side comparisons to past maps. Experience a musical tribute to Dennis Hopper with Chicago band Trailer Hitch. [mp3] Physicist suggest we could find "weird life" in alternate biospheres on Earth. Website analyzes counties&
Canadian-born poet, MacArthur “Genius” Award-winner, and scholar Anne Carson—of whom Susan Sontag decreed, “She is one of the few writers writing in English that I would read anything she wrote”—offers her first book of poetry since Decreation (2006), Nox (New Directions). Though to call Nox a book is
We asked our staff and readers to rewrite the end of Lost. Spoiler alert! But not really, when you consider you'd have to flash-sideways to experience the alternative realities ahead.
Latin American countries change constitutions so frequently, they may as well be wikis. If it swims in the water, it is a FISH. Period! Republicans solicit agenda ideas from Republicans via a "winsome" website. Op: New National Security Strategy gets big things right, offers a clear framework for
B.P.'s gush is now the worst oil spill in history--and possibly double the size of the Exxon Valdez disaster. Until 4 p.m. ET today, the Biblioracle--aka John Warner--provides book recommendations based on the last five books you read. Running barefoot may be physically superior, but that
Speaking of translation (see recent item), New Directions has an interview with poet/essayist/translator Elliot Weinberger (What Happened Here: Bush Chronicles). Of the many gems and nuggets to be found there is this: New York Times It should not go unmentioned that What Happened Here contains a compelling indictment
Obama to extend ban on drilling new deep-water wells; Shell says, how about shallower water? Iran and Russia trade barbs after Russia supports U.S.-backed sanctions. U.S. troops in Iraq to drop to 50,000 this summer, and rise to 100,000 in Afghanistan. Op: Forget servicing NGOs--Haiti
Today we welcome back the Biblioracle, who takes the last five books you read and recommends what to read next.
When I received notice of Dalkey Archive Press’s Summer sale, it reminded me I just don’t do enough for those noble publishing houses like Dalkey, Archipelago, and Open Letter, all of whom publish excellent and important literature from around our troubled planet—in other words, literature in translation.
James Lord (Mythic Giacometti), memoirist of a certain artistic set that included Gertrude Stein, Picasso, and Giacometti, died recently. His fourth memoir, My Queer War (FSG), deals with his WWII army experiences, and as William Grimes quotes Lord from another time, “An autobiographer is in the business of doing for
Obama sends 1200 troops to border-patrol; Cancun mayor arrested for trafficking. Doctor who spread autism-vaccine hokum discharged from General Medical Council for "dishonest," "misleading" research. Harvard professor spends 40% of his time chasing research grants. Central African lawyers prefer keeping anti-witch laws on the books for
Kingston under siege as Coke crisis continues; calm will come from legal acrobatics or Coke's consent. Tracking Jamaican unrest online. Mitchell is broadly optimistic about Middle East progress, urging "extreme risks" for peace. Syria's Assad: America has no influence, because it is doing nothing.
The air conditioner puckers as the door closes. The landing gear creaks as the plane departs the jetway. Above your head, the call button dings.
American universities return the blood they took 40 years ago from a Brazilian tribe. Anti-aging supplements are most effective when taken in middle age. Researchers find supplementing testosterone in women creates less trust, more vigilance. How a caste system and male-dominated society perpetuate honor killings in India. Teacher with "
Forgive me if you have a problem with me honoring another dead white man but, in my world, to ignore the publication of a book by Jorge Luis Borges, who died in 1986, would be entirely unforgivable. In this case, a new, compact anthology, Everything and Nothing (New Directions) by
On a moonlit street in Brooklyn, merchants open the doors of their trucks and welcome an audience armed with curiosity and cupcakes.
B.P. and other oil companies to retain control of the worsening oil mess. U.S. enlarges joint exercises with South Korea in order to rattle northern neighbors. No neighboring power really wants the North Korean population released from its awful misery. Adichie: Most Nigerians are libertarians, not ideologically but
North Carolina-born poet Tony Hoagland (What Narcissism Means to Me), who is well-regarded and lauded in the poetry world (which is hardly ever confused as the real world), might have titled his new long-awaited collection (Unincorporated Persons in the Late Honda Dynasty, Graywolf Press) something along the lines of Poets
Bob Bennett on how the Tea Partiers are unwittingly following Carter, all the while invoking Reagan. How musicians can beat the high cost of downloading: Charge fans to hang out with them. Esquire's Massa profile skips the gay question, but uncovers a juicy story about Petraeus and treason.
It's the water cooler show of the decade, and now that it's over, the world is left with questions--the foremost being, "That's what they came up with?" Whether or not you watched the show, you know about it. You know there'
Like the pensive, cautionary nature-boys in her new paintings, Julie Heffernan cobbles together tokens and symbols to create a natural world as beautiful as it is gentle.
Kandahar 1989, 1996, and Kandahar now--still centuries from Western civilization. The Gates-Clinton axis: D.C.'s "only important center of gravity outside 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue." Video: Farmers turn Paris's Champs-Elysees green. Documents find Israel offering to sell South Africa nuclear warheads in 1975. Op: The
Summer approaches, travel increases--and some people will kill you for photographing butterflies. Here's recent news on sightseeing, from Bangkok to Lars von Trier.
Clinton condemns North Korea's torpedo and packs for a trip to China. Your Saturday-morning long read is on the state of Egyptian politics, or, "Mubarak's Last Breath." It's not about politics, it's just the story of a boy. "Little
The pantheon of chanteuses whose voices and phrasing could jackhammer your buried feelings from the tomb of defenses that life inevitably creates is not especially large—but its members are truly gifted in rising out of harrowing narratives to give unique voice to grief, torment, and tribulation. Nina Simone, Edith
Scientists discover chunk of missing universe 400 million light years away. Mp3s of the original BBC Radio broadcast of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. New electric cars have the same range--on one charge--as a car from 1908. Video: A two-year-old who knows his football. How the iPad&
What is it about summer that attracts both Eisenhower and the recently engaged? A consideration of the striking similarities between weddings and wars.
Poet Paul Guest (My Index of Horrifying Knowledge) was permanently paralyzed in a bike accident at the age of 12, which, as Mary Karr points out, “is the least interesting thing about his work.” In “User’s Guide to Physical Debilitation,” he alludes to his situation: Guest’s new book,
Analysis of North Korea's trigger-finger and what it means if it was (or wasn't) Kim Jong Il's. Lucid summary of recent Thai political history. America is carrying out a robot war 7,000 miles away; laws have not kept up with technological progress. Why
In that evanescent realm which I think of as my reading experiences there are a handful of writers whose narrative skills move them beyond the increasingly respectable category of so-called “genre fiction” to the seemingly more respected arena of “literary fiction”—Elmore Leonard, George Pelecanos, Charles McCarry, Alan Furst, Thomas
Facebook can predict--with 33% accuracy--change in a user's relationship status before it occurs in real life. I snagged a job at a downtown phone-sex call center, and six weeks later I had my piece--and another insight about journalism. Newsweek reporter reluctantly tweet-profiles Michele Bachmann, not eager to be
In American history one might corral any number of examples—Vietnam and Iraq, Warren Harding and George Bush, the elections of 1876 and 2000, Enron and AIG et al., and more—to support a theory which maintains that as a nation, the United States does not seem to learn from
Seoul seeks unilateral punishment after blaming Pyongyang for attack. The sinking shows how unwise it is to leave stability on the peninsula hostage to Pyongyang's goodwill. BBC live blog of Bangkok coverage. Analysis: China may have crippled Clinton's sanctions; Iran probably divided/conquered once more. Op:
Study finds link between exposure to fruit and vegetable pesticides and incidence of ADHD. The top 10 Smiths songs that will mess up teenagers the most. Ian Curtis died 30 years ago today; this summer, a walking tour of Joy Division landmarks commences. People grow happier with age, though not
Ever since I read (in 1977) Thomas Whiteside’s exposition on tomatoes, entitled simply “Tomatoes,” I have used it as an example of 1) the discovery of a piece of writing on a subject I was not inclined to pay attention and, 2) another good reason the New Yorker is
A live studio audience is one part mosh pit, two parts Godot. A Glendale taping becomes a hostage situation.
Fireballs inside miniature universe suggest muons explain why we exist. On the rise of middle powers: U.S. caught off-guard by Brazil-Turkey alliance. France says swap of academic for man who killed former Iranian prime minister isn't quid pro quo. South Korea to inform the U.N. Security
Though both bestselling authors (being a singular category) John Grisham and Scott Turow are well liked in what is a testy and envy-rich sub-culture, I have not been moved to read their novels and writings. I might have read the book that launched Turow’s career (Presumed Innocent), but it’
The term film noir gets tossed around quite a bit in the polyphonious public conversations about movies—it’s possible that its meaning has been diluted to mean anything that takes place at night that has the slightest hint of human mayhem. Thus the publication of an updated Film Noir
Politicians are glad there's more young families in Washington--they just don't want to acommodate them in public spaces. Cell phones don't cause cancer after all. Former Vegas chef tries to open the "world's best restaurant" in Bloomington, Ill., starting with
Manuscript archivist Liza Kirwin raked together an exhaustive pile of historically significant notes, grocery lists, and romantic ephemera from some of the 20th century’s greatest artists.
Renegade Thai general Khattiya Sawasdipol dies; protesters refuse to leave their camp in Bangkok. Recovery in Europe viewed as hamstrung; banks in solid economies trapped in the undertow. The week in news: bank fraud, British politics, and Mexico-U.S. relations. Cameron laughed at for banning mobile phones during meetings. Forty-two
There may be a tendency to dismiss intra-left political conflicts with a version of the old saw about literary squabbles—that is, the reason they are so impassioned and contentious is they argue about so little. Though there are jokes to be made about the apparent self-destructiveness of the Left
No big deal, but a Brit would never say “…spend the night with Brown’s flutes.” It would be “Brown’s whistles.” Whistles and flutes = suits, but the short version is whistles. In rhyming slang, every rule has an exception, but generally it’s the first word that’s the
Feds line up sweeping probe into banks; Cuomo picks eight to probe about duping rating agencies. Britain to retire €500 notes from circulation, gangsters' favorite denomination. France's sex workers' union "adamantly opposed" to government plans to reopen brothels. New rule for politics: Don'
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. When a reader disagrees with his wife over the cleanliness of their home, we propose a tidy solution.
Though my education was decidedly inferior (a product of the Chicago Public Schools and lower-tier universities), that dis-educational experience did not seem to affect my interest in history and its broadest expression, the various narrative arts (for which I still owe thanks to mother who pushed me into my autodidactic
In D.C., the opening of an Iraqi culture center hopes to bridge the gap created by invasion and war. The Big Picture: Disaster unfolds slowly in the Gulf of Mexico. For decades, Newburgh, N.Y., has struggled with violence; now with machete-wielding gang members, things just got worse. Account
While I assign to the film Saturday Night Fever the role of token/emblem of the worst decade in my lifetime, I have never enlarged that judgment to include the whole of the most prevalent music of the time, disco. In the main because I admired the talents of the
Celebrity graduation speakers should dispense wisdom and entertainment, or cause a scandal. Our writer found eight who managed to provide at least two out of three.
U.S. military denies hand in blight decimating Afghanistan's poppy harvest. Military considers medals for soldiers who show restraint. Ancient "hidden menace" lurking beneath Quebec claims house and family with quick, quiet landslide. Among reasons why neighborhoods are changing: Suburban households spend 24 percent of income
As an unrepentant Vietnam war dissenter, political contrarian, and admirer of Howard Zinn, Noam Chomsky, and Christopher Hitchens, I had a feeling I would not be able to read very much of Karl Rove’s new memoir Courage and Consequence (Threshold Editions). But seized by a moment of attempted fairness,
Now that the timing's better, Israel to resume razing Palestinian homes in East Jerusalem. British politics explainer for Americans; no mention of the Soap Hat, queerly. See also: The six books of the Lib-Con movement. Erroll Morris: Journalism is an obsession; it's about pursuing stories beyond
Goodyear is unsure what to do with 50 scale models of its factories; to embrace the future, it may have to shed its past. Unknown chemicals used in oil spill cleanup could be more harmful than the oil spill. What's the most ecologically friendly brand of gas station
Ruth catches up on the blog, and a reader entreats The Golem to explain the intricacies of his relationship.
My first impulse upon encountering this article, found in/on the ostensibly British Guardian newspaper/website penned (forgive the old-school locution) by their Manhattan correspondent Ed Pilkington, was dismissal. And upon short reflection my view remained unchanged. I’m not sufficiently acquainted with current brain science (actually not familiar at
Senate will investigate who's to blame for the rig disaster: B.P., Transocean, or Halliburton, who all blame each other. Exploring the world of gun-toting Buddhist monks who believe peacemaking requires militancy. Clinton investigations reveal the decline of legal integrity. Mystery condition of teenager stuck in arrested development
Casey Pugh helped make Vimeo and is now the head of web development for Boxee. He also founded the crowdsourcing film project Star Wars: Uncut, which recently premiered at CPH: PIX, a Copenhagen film festival. The project broke the film down, and users were asked to recreate and submit the
Reading Agni editor and Harvard mentor (The Gutenberg Elegies: The Fate of Reading in an Electronic Age) Sven Birkets at his best is like listening to an old-style baritone crooner like Johnny Hartmann squeeze every last nuance from a classic ballad. The occasion for this observation is Birket’s meditation
Your roommate, your girlfriend, and her (and your) boss: It’s a tough table, and they’ll scrutinize your food—and your dwindling frame.
Coordinated attacks kill more than a hundred in Iraq, making Monday this year's bloodiest day so far. Lucid summary of the Euro bailout bazooka. Maine's Republicans now advocate a "return to the principles of Austrian Economics." Op: As government falls to relying on business
Leslie Jamison certainly has some weighty credentials—though I am in a quandary as to which element of her neophytic novelist capsule-bio/gestalt moved me to pick up her debut novel, The Gin Closet (Free Press). I am even considering the subliminal connection to my reading of Dan Okrent’s
My guess is very few of you have read novelist Gilbert Sorrentino (Mulligan Stew, Gold Fools), probably through no fault of yours, and most certainly through no fault of his. This accomplished writer, who was felled by the big C in 2006, had published over 30 books, mostly fiction, and
"I think he understood for the first time that Toyota was facing some very, very serious credibility problems..." The road to recovery. Gulf spill rig operator has been involved in nearly three out of every four federal rig safety investigations. Rising U.S. medical costs for treating cancer
Photographer Timothy Briner spent seven years on “Boonville,” which takes place in six towns in the U.S.—six different towns named Boonville where Briner lived for periods of time and shot portraits of private lives, overpasses, and wrestling squads.
War on AIDS crumbling; for every 100 people put on treatment, 250 are newly infected. Long read: Opacity of Mexico's "drug war" makes legends out of gangsters. See also: John Murray's Ciudad Juarez news tracking. Obama likes Kagan's "intellectual heft"
Probably everyone knows someone whose predilection for collecting has gone off the rails and might be viewed as a pathological condition. (Consider the two daffy uncles in Diane Keaton’s 1995 film Unstrung Heroes.) Randy Frost and Gail Steketee, social scientists and scholars, have taken their decade-long research into what
May is National Older Americans Month, Get Caught Reading Month, Meditation Month, Clean Air Month, Haitian Heritage Month, and a host of others—in honor of which I want to continue noting and advocating poetry. In this instance, Lucia Perillo, whose Inseminating the Elephant (Copper Canyon Press) was a finalist
The British electoral system can be confusing for outsiders. An explanation of its rituals and inner workings--e.g., the role of the Chief Whife--to make things clear.
When faced with insurmountable obstacles, when all other options have been exhausted--that's when moms say the darndest things.
Secret recordings from Copenhagen reveal China's sabotage, Sarkozy's accusations, Merkel's chagrin. Black Tea Partiers say Obama profits from racial sympathy, and Uncle Tom was a hero. Greek austerity plan as a real-time economic experiment; see also: how to rate a country. Internet regulator unveils
For the purpose of this communiqué I don’t need to resolve whether myth-making is both a necessary and sufficient ingredient of nationalism—let’s agree that it is at least a sufficient condition. Hence, the various fabricated or embellished narratives regarding the Pilgrims and their Native American hosts, the
This is the year British politics went presidential. How televised debates and X-Factor played into the election. A short history of Britain's Loony Party, which, nearing its third decade, has seen a surge of applicants. Maternal favoritism, though possibly a cultural development, affects lifelong psychological health. In Sudan,
Greece's prosperity hid strains of ultranationalism and xenophobia that may now be unleashed. Greek protesters say they accept the cuts, just not the politicians. Increasing overlap suspected among domestic Pakistani groups and Pakistan-based Afghan Taliban and al Qaeda. Op: Wishful thinking on the West's part to
Spring brings forth a number of wonders, not the least of which are the quarterly editions of so-called small literary magazines. Since I am graced to be on the mailing lists of a number of my favorites, I am happy to note some highlights. Ploughshares (Spring 2010, Vol 36), which
Such has been the influence of Chilean novelist Robert Bolaño that every posthumous publication of his ouevre has been hungrily devoured by the growing multitudes of his admirers. Now comes Antwerp, translated by Natasha Wimmer (New Directions), which was written in 1980 but first published in 2002, just before Bolaño’
With city regulation of marijuana dispensaries to begin June 7, L.A. asks 439 pot stores to cease operations. With as much as $500 million in fees up for grabs, lawyers audition for the lead spot in litigation against Toyota. Video captures Fla. state senator looking at porn during an
Pictures of flood waters that have overtaken Nashville's downtown. Overview of steps that led to Shahzad's arrest 53 hours after Times Square. There seems to be a pattern of mediocre sons from elite families becoming terrorists. Jihadi groups assess U.S. volunteers as probable spies, and
As is occasionally the case, I owe (and I hope I speak for his Washington Post readers) a debt of gratitude (whatever that is) to Jonathan Yardley for apprising me of the publication of Mencken on Mencken: A New Collection of Autobiographical Writings, edited by Mencken scholar S.T. Joshi
Four certified divers collect submerged trash and make repairs on water attractions. A look inside Disneyland's nightly refresh. Pope claims the Shroud of Turin is authentic. The mantra of Lomography was "don't think, just shoot," but mostly, it was a brilliant way to sell
One may view our encounters with sounds and silence as a quotidian matter, but as Patrick Madden quotes Montaigne in his collection of essays, “From the most ordinary and commonplace things, if we could put them in their proper light, can be formed the greatest miracles of nature and the
U2's guitarist has recently been slammed by environmentalists for his California real-estate development. An FAQ for concerned neighbors.
Times Square bomb suspect arrested while waiting to fly to Dubai. B.P. says it will cover all Gulf cleanup costs, estimated to be at least $12.5 billion. Greek public sector workers fulminate prior to Wednesday's planned nationwide strike. Coffee-break browsing: Easy-to-flip almanac of what remains of
Sometimes I actually take note of how many days are like that winter holiday where people are encouraged to spend all the money they make on gifts, and then they are encouraged to shop at sales and buy the stuff they bought for other people at deep discounts. The various
Scott Zieher doesn’t have to look hard for art—it just has a way of showing up. That’s what happened with this album he found of photos from the gay biker scene of the 1970s. Zieher’s discovery reminds us that treasures, like subcultures, exist right under our noses—not disguised, just overlooked.
Polanski calls his extradition an attempt "to serve me on a platter to the media of the world." Op: The war over "begging the question" has ended--and 18 out of 20 people never knew a shot was fired. I am a mortal being; mortal beings die;
No evidence found to link Pakistani Taliban to the Times Square bomb; hunt for man on tape. Johnson & Johnson recalls 53 infant and children's products; potential for harm is remote, says F.D.A. East coast beaches are disappearing, but government, developers, and dwellers aren't
Back in the closing years of the last century, Jon Lee Anderson, who currently writes lucid and useful dispatches from the world’s hotspots—current and future—for the New Yorker, hied himself and his young family to Havana and wrote what is currently the definitive biography of Ernesto Che
My sense of the fin-de-siècle years in American pop culture and the decades leading up to them is that the reactionary ‘70s were followed by an era of escalating exuberance—one barometer of that was the burgeoning importance of design and designers, in fashion, interiors, and consumer goods. In the
MIKE Deri Smith summarizes recent news, studies, and gaffes concerning overconfidence, from competitive running to the N.F.L. draft, even socialist firemen.
R.I.P. Leslie Buck, designer of New York's iconic coffee cup. Damascus gets a smoking ban, redefining café society. Pictures: Gaza's bodybuilding contest, for men's eyes only. Boy Scouts of America fighting to keep files on suspected child molesters private. Map of Europe
There is something odd about a quintessentially American book having been written by a Frenchman, an oddity perhaps compounded by being one of the most unread well-known titles in American history. Alexis de Tocqueville’s two-volume Discovery of America, published in 1835 and 1840 after the young Frenchman’s nine-month
As I write this, the honorable literary organization PEN is holding its Sixth Annual World Voices Festival of International Literature, which is a thing of wonder and joy if you are proximal to the universal center of ambition (or are inclined to transport yourself there) and you are a devotee
Iowa G.O.P. hopeful calls for tracking illegal immigrants with microchip implants. The movement to boycott AriZona Tea is futile--the drink is brewed in Long Island. At "Vending Spree," TMN's Matthew Baldwin will consume and review every item in his office's vending machine.
As we carve out weekends for summer vacations and welcome loved ones home from across the volcanic ash-strewn pond, our staff and readers share their hard-earned trip advice.
New oil leak discovered off Louisiana coast; rate now 5,000 barrels a day, not 1,000. Stabber injures 28 children in China--third such knife attack in a month. Eight opinions on who should replace Justice Stevens. "Black elephant"--a widely predicted event that people will claim to
The assassination-history business in the U.S., while not a thriving enterprise, does provide an occasional narrative from a decidedly warped point of view—though of the successful presidential assassinations, only John Willkes Booth’s and Lee Harvey Oswald’s have spurred countless treatises and analyses. In the main because
What happens to the oil skimmed off the Gulf of Mexico: Some will go into cars, some will be buried, some will grow mushrooms. How data collection and an "internet of things" could change the world. This year's Record Store Day turned into the biggest day
Sex education has always seemed like a counterintuitive enterprise to me—which doesn’t reduce its importance in a culture which, at the least, broadcasts mixed messages about sexuality and human relations. And, of course, government involvement in sex education continues to be a controversial issue. Thus a book like
Having mastered the nonstatement, Goldman denies wrongdoing. Reporters say Obama's White House is distant, petulant, and hostile to the media (except the New York Times). Op: Portugal isn't Greece, but what makes it different could be crippling under duress. Scientifically speaking, financial reform will depend on
Besides the malcontents and know-nothings who are apt to bleat out various accusations about some media conspiracy (failing even to understand the distinction between media and journalism), for the most part it would appear that the only people who are concerned about the state of American journalism are malcontents and
I suspect there are not many collections (if any) like The Ecco Anthology of International Poetry (edited by Ilya Kaminsky and Susan Harris of Words Without Borders). Gathered within its pages are some of the finest poems from around the planet written in the 20th century. And it claims to
Obama to visit an Iowa town that had it rough the last time he passed through, and where it's only gotten rougher. Veteran New York safety inspector admits he never tested any of the hundreds of buildings he deemed safe from lead and asbestos. Santa Clara County wants
Just what the world needed, another award and another award show. Denis Loy Johnson, of Melville House Publishing, who is a shrewd and savvy fellow and outspoken journalist (and who I first came across when he put out a very useful website called Moby Lives, and who shared my antipathy
Though throughout my reading life I would occasionally read short fiction, it wasn’t until I spoke with writer/Florida State University creative writing program head honcho Mark Winegardner that I saw short stories in a different light. In my world—forget me as a college professor and a writer—
A new poem about jockeys, ponies, and golden eggs filled with candy, and how quickly races are won when you’re drinking.
PowerPoint overtakes the military--it can put reporters to sleep, otherwise it's ineffective. Israel's chief military censor: Enemies attribute higher credibility to articles published by the Israeli media. Journey through Gaza finds boredom, a baby boom, a zone "eerily empty of bitterness." Belgium's
Before compact discs, before cassette tapes, before eight-track tapes, there was a playback medium called the long-playing record. It was a 12-inch disc (there were also seven-inch discs called “singles”) made of black vinyl (although occasionally they were colored differently). They were encased in a “jacket cover,” which exhibited artwork
Subway numbers reflect aboveground life: Midtown job losses emptied stations; the Bowery boomed with Brooklyn riders. Shepard Fairey completes mural for his Deitch Projects show, the gallery's last-ever exhibit. He decided he wanted a skeleton he could take apart. Creating artwork from human bones. Artist surveys subway riders,
Paula McCartney’s portraits of fake birds in real landscapes are not digitally enhanced, but they do trick the eye.
Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir wins multi-party election. South Korean ship sunk by bubble jet, attacker unknown; Seoul suspends North Korean tourism jaunts. Obama reneges on campaign promise, uses euphemisms to discuss the Armenian Genocide. Op: The public's fluctuating dismay and renewed faith in Wall Street isn&
Given the subject—Barack Obama—and the author—Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and New Yorker editor David Remnick—it makes sense that Remnick’s new tome, The Bridge (Knopf), would receive widespread attention and review coverage. And it probably would, at some point, make more sense or be (at the least)
Experts answer what they know. The Non-Expert answers anything. When a reader asks about housewarming gifts, we see Armageddon in the neighborhood.
Greek prime minister calls for help from "a sinking ship," so he may "rebuild our ship with strong and resilient materials." Op: Default by a eurozone member need not spell the ruin of the currency. Mugabe backs Iran's nuclear program. The first great financial
I am not au courant with the latest taxonomical view of what was (and still is, I suppose) at one point referred to as the “graphic novel.” Though that rubric may be troublesome, other possibilities are no less insufficient—comic books, cartoons, still movies. In any case, what is clear
Moody's dings Toyota's credit rating, estimates the carmaker's sales will suffer through at least 2012. "I kind of just combined the flavors and added the shrimp." S.S.A. employees hold a cook-off. Forty years ago, Earth Day eschewed corporations; now organizers
By now, the financial crisis has touched nearly every corner of the population. But only recently has the Order of the Blood of Thoth felt the pinch.
Dodd and Shelby say the financial regulation bill is nearly finished, derivatives-trading ban included. Hawks taking wing in South Korea over its sunken warship. Gordon Brown's wife, Michelle-like, trots out Downing Street's eating and gardening habits. Facing porcine price plummet, China adds to its "much
If you are not an accidental reader of this whatchamacallit then you are the type of person who is well aware of the new HBO series Treme (which you probably also know, after airing only two episodes, has been renewed for a second season). The attention paid to creator David
The good part about all the horror stories brought back from traveling is that there's usually a lesson to be learned. (Don't overpack your luggage with the cr
