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Senate GOP rams through blueprint to bankroll ICE, Border Patrol through end of Trump era
Senate Republicans adopted a budget resolution funding ICE and Border Patrol for President Donald Trump's full term, advancing the reconciliation process to fund immigration enforcement.
Scientists make breakthrough in solving mystery of volcanic lightning
Research shows fine carbon coating on silica in updraught causes electrical charge – and spectacular display
The Herald's weekly entertainment picks
Looking to be entertained from Thursday, April 23, through Wednesday, April 29? Check out the Skagit Valley Herald’s weekly recommendations.
Here’s What’s In Crimson Desert’s Biggest Patch Since Launch
Crimson Desert just unleashed a new patch that is so sprawling it's hard to get through all the notes. So I'm here to pull out the best ones.
University of Tampa breaks ground on new innovation center, focused on health and science fields
The University of Tampa broke ground on the largest investment in its 94-year history. The school is building the Dickey Science Innovation Center, overlooking the Hillsborough River.
University of Tampa breaks ground on new innovation center, focused on health and science fields
The University of Tampa broke ground on the largest investment in its 94-year history. The school is building the Dickey Science Innovation Center, overlooking the Hillsborough River.
This new brain-like chip could slash AI energy use by 70%
A breakthrough in brain-inspired computing could make today’s energy-hungry AI systems far more efficient. Researchers have engineered a new nanoelectronic device using a modified form of hafnium oxide that mimics how neurons process and store information at the same time. Unlike conventional chips that waste energy moving data back and forth, this device operates with ultra-low power—potentially slashing energy use by up to 70%.
Speed over science?
A new executive order could fast-track approval of psychedelic drugs for mental illness, raising hopes for breakthrough treatments while prompting…
From Science to Policy: Planetary Solutions in Action
Report translating breakthrough science into actionable policy for planetary health
Trump brings his nonsense about mail-in ballots to Republicans’ Virginia defeat
President Donald Trump has lied for years that elections Republicans lost fair and square were “rigged” by mail-in ballots. On Wednesday, he brought his familiar playbook to the aftermath of the Virginia redistricting referendum Republicans lost on Tuesday.
‘It’s not just stardust.’ Musicians warn AI could erase artists’ livelihoods
Musicians brought their message straight to Capitol Hill, warning lawmakers that AI threatens artists’ voices, likenesses and livelihoods.
Speaker series makes science digestible for all audiences
The Center for Communicating Science created a recipe to help bridge the gap between science research and the public through its Science on Tap series.
A South Jersey sports museum owner brought Pope Leo XIV gifts during a trip to Rome
Trump administration settles lawsuit with ex-Trump adviser Carter Page
The Justice Department has reached a settlement in a lawsuit brought by former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page, who sued the DOJ and FBI for over flawed government surveillance he faced due to his Russian contacts in 2016, according to a filing with the Supreme Court Wednesday.
'We played the right type of game'
Birmingham City boss Chris Davies tells BBC WM he was thoroughly happy with his side's performance in Wednesday's 2-1 win over Preston.
Brooklyn FC launches Business Alliance initiative to support local business community
Brooklyn’s strength has always been its unique mix of local perspective and global influence. No where is this strength more pronounced than in the pride our borough takes in supporting […]
May the Science Be With You event aims to inspire kids to explore STEAM careers
Las Vegas children will get a chance to explore future career paths through a “May the Science Be With You” event aimed at teaching kids about STEAM.Shauna Witt
HHS rejects publication of study showing Covid-19 vaccines prevent hospitalizations, ER visits
Covid-19 vaccines roughly halved the chances that a US adult would need to visit the emergency room or be hospitalized with their infections last fall and winter, according to two sources familiar with the findings of a new study. But you won’t hear about it from the agency that led the research: the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
From sports stars to the attorney general himself, Hoosiers have unclaimed property
Famous athletes are among thousands of Hoosiers with unclaimed property owed to them, available to search and claim through online portal.
US burning through weapons in Iran it needs for China war
The US has heavily expended key munitions. It has enough for the Iran war but risks vulnerability in a future conflict with China, experts warn.
New York lawmakers pass sixth state budget extender that runs through April 27
The state budget was due on April 1.
Hochul order bars state workers from insider trading on prediction markets
The governor said the order forbids covered state officers and employees from using confidential information acquired in the course of their official duties to further their personal financial interests through these markets.
Four receive 2026 L&S Academic Advising Awards
Awards honor faculty and staff who have demonstrated exemplary performance both in terms of their positive impact on students and through distinctive…
Two BU Scientists Receive Prestigious 2026 Breakthrough Prizes
Lee Roberts and Dillon Brout honored for transformative achievements in physics and astronomy
Professor Turns Challenging Computer Science Courses Into Student Breakthroughs
In six years, Richard “Carter” Tillquist has turned rigorous computer science courses into supportive, engaging experiences, helping students build confidence, curiosity, and a lasting passion for learning.
Bombardier CEO Navigates Supply Chain Constraints for Defense Business After Hitting $1 Billion Goal Early
Eric Martel is navigating the Canadian jet maker through some turbulence to seize on the next leg of growth in the booming defense market.
'Avatar: Fire and Ash' Remains No. 1 on Weekly U.K. Home Entertainment Sales Chart Through April 22
Director James Cameron’s sci-fi fantasy Avatar: Fire and Ash remained atop the Official Film Chart, the U.K. home entertainment sales chart, for a third week through April 22. The title held off Universal’s Oscar winner Hamnet, which climbed six spots to No. 2 in its 10th week on the chart, followed by the studio’s Wicked: For Good, … Continue reading "‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Remains No. 1 on Weekly U.K. Home Entertainment Sales Chart Through April 22"
'Avatar: Fire and Ash' Remains No. 1 on Weekly U.K. Home Entertainment Sales Chart Through April 22
Director James Cameron’s sci-fi fantasy Avatar: Fire and Ash remained atop the Official Film Chart, the U.K. home entertainment sales chart, for a third week through April 22. The title held off Universal’s Oscar winner Hamnet, which climbed six spots to No. 2 in its 10th week on the chart, followed by the studio’s Wicked: For Good, … Continue reading "‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Remains No. 1 on Weekly U.K. Home Entertainment Sales Chart Through April 22"
Child Health Poll: Vast majority of Tennessee parents say their kids get regular immunizations, support school-based immunization requirements
Roughly 8 in 10 parents surveyed across the state said they are concerned about communicable diseases like measles if others are not immunized and agreed that immunizations are important to protect their children from serious infections.
WATCH LIVE: Senate meets as Republicans try to secure DHS funding through budget reconciliation
Shigeru Miyamoto wants Peach's backstory in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie to remain canon in future Nintendo games
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie delves more into Princess Peach's background, and Shigeru Miyamoto wants Nintendo to adhere to this in future games.
Gamers sue Nintendo over tariff refunds, saying consumers should get the money back
Two gamers have filed a class action lawsuit against Nintendo, alleging that the company will be unjustly enriching itself with any refund it secures from the U.S. government over widespread tariffs last year that, among other things, hiked the prices of Nintendo hardware and accessories. “Unless restrained by this Court, Nintendo stands to recover the same tariff payments twice—once from consumers through higher prices and again from the federal government through tariff refunds, including interest paid by the government on those funds,” the suit states. Nintendo sued the U.S. government to secure a tariff refund in March, after the Supreme Court struck down the tariffs a month prior, saying they were illegally implemented by President Donald Trump.. The gamers who have sued, California-based Gregory Hoffert and Washington-based Prashant Sharan, both say they purchased Nintendo goods that had increased in price due to tariffs, according to the complaint. They filed their suit in the Western District court of Nintendo of America’s home state of Washington and are seeking class action status to represent all people in the U.S. who purchased price-hiked Nintendo goods between February 1, 2025 and February 24, 2026. They allege that Nintendo’s recovery of any tariff refunds would constitute unjust enrichment and violate Washington state consumer protection law. Similar class action lawsuits pressing companies to pass on tariff refunds have been previously filed against FedEx, UPS and eyeglass importer EssilorLuxottica. The tariffs were announced in early April, and by mid-month, Nintendo had announced $5 price increases for controllers for the then-forthcoming Switch 2. In August, it raised the price of the original Switch. In their suit, the gamers cite comments from Nintendo executives connecting the tariffs to price increases. In May 2025, a month after the tariffs were imposed, Nintendo CEO Shuntaro Furukawa told investors “Our basic policy is that for any country or region, if tariffs are imposed, we recognize them as a part of the cost and incorporate them into the price.” Nintendo’s March lawsuit, along with tariff-recovery suits from hundreds of other companies was immediately put on hold pending the implementation of a refund system. The U.S. government announced the beginning of the refund process earlier this week. Companies could receive as much as $160 billion, per CNBC. In March 2026, after Nintendo filed its lawsuit to recover the cost of the tariffs, I asked the company if they planned to pass their refund on to customers who’d paid increased prices. The company’s response acknowledged the existence of the lawsuit but avoided answering that question: “We can confirm that we filed a request. We have nothing else to share on this topic.” Even a promise to consumers may not have spared Nintendo this week’s lawsuit. FedEx previously promised to pass its tariff refunds on to consumers. They’ve been sued over them anyway.
29-year-old spent $1,000 to launch a wedding camcorder business—it brought in $1.7 million in sales in less than a year
Anne Marie Carroll started Wedding Weekender with one camcorder in May 2025. Within 10 days of launching she had 50 orders and over $36,000 in sales.
ECCO THE DOLPHIN: COMPLETE
/PRNewswire/ -- A&R Atelier today announced Ecco the Dolphin: Complete, a comprehensive new package that takes players on a journey through time and through...
AI revolution hits medicine: SandboxAQ targets health, cyber breakthroughs
SandboxAQ CEO Jack Hidary joins 'Mornings with Maria' to discuss AI breakthroughs in healthcare, cybersecurity, and science, plus Dell’s $750M investment in a new AI medical campus.
California Lawmakers Seek Protections for Patients in ICE Custody
Moving through the California Senate are two bills, informed by KFF Health News reporting, that would strengthen protections for patients brought to health facilities by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
UTC Rollins College of Business student earns JPMorgan internship
Ethan Tidwell has always dreamed of working in New York City. This summer, he will finally have the opportunity through a two-month internship with JPMorgan Chase & Co. in New York City.
Los Angeles Residents to Gain Faster Access to New Affordable Housing through Health Net's $10 Million Investment in "Guarantee Fund"
Partnership with LA4LA will accelerate construction of affordable and mixed-use housing across LA County SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Health Net, one of California's most...
DeFi Technologies' Asset Management Business, Valour, Secures US$11 Million in Institutional Investment into Hedera ETPs, Including US$10 Million on Börse Frankfurt and US$1 Million on Sweden's Spotlight
Two separate institutional transactions, based on execution value at the time of purchase and originated through DeFi Technologies' Abu Dhabi symposium,...
Austin Zero Waste Business Rebate: How it works, who qualifies
Here’s how Austin businesses can apply for up to $3,000 through the city’s zero-waste rebate program.
Is Bangladesh killing reforms introduced after student-led protests?
A new parliament has cancelled several reforms that were brought in after Hasina's ouster to improve accountability.
Caesars Entertainment (CZR) Valuation Check As Digital Growth Offsets Mixed Long Term Returns
Recent performance snapshot and business mix Caesars Entertainment (CZR) has seen mixed share performance, with a small 1 day pullback following gains of about 4% over the past week and roughly 3% over the past month. Over the past 3 months, the stock shows a return of about 17%, while the 1 year total return is close to 3%. Longer horizons look weaker, with 3 year and 5 year total returns of about 35% and 73% declines respectively. The company reports annual revenue of about US$11.5b and a...
Samir Patel on science journalism and curiosity
On April 19, Humanities in Medicine, the Duke Program in Literature, the DeWitt Wallace Center, Duke English and Duke’s Program in Education hosted “Storytelling Through Science Journalism,” a speaker event featuring Samir Patel (Pratt ‘97), the editor and chief of Quanta Magazine.
📋 The XIs for matchday 16, Querétaro v Cruz Azul
Liga MX is nearing the end of the regular season, and we will have a double matchweek. Cruz Azul opens the curtain by visiting Querétaro on Matchday 16 of Liga MX. La Máquina is going through a diff...
Ancient DNA reveals a hidden Neanderthal group frozen in time
A remarkable genetic breakthrough has uncovered what may be one of the clearest snapshots yet of a Neanderthal “community” living together 100,000 years ago in what is now Poland. The findings reveal that these individuals shared genetic ties with Neanderthals spread across Europe and the Caucasus, hinting at widespread ancient lineages that later disappeared.
Vodafone offers small businesses cybersecurity, AI capability with Google tie-up
European mobile and broadband operator Vodafone said it would offer its small business customers advanced cybersecurity and agentic AI through its $1 billion strategic tie-up with Google Cloud agreed in October 2024.
Drought restrictions 'a bit of a nightmare,' business owner says
The City of Raleigh says inspectors are out in neighborhoods making sure people understand and follow the new watering rules.
Mara Brock Akil And Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove Share How Storytelling Shapes Black Maternal Health
On Saturday, April 18, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda brought together elected officials, TV and film writers, creators, and community leaders for a powerful conversation unpacking how media narratives can impact policy.
Mystics, Monumental Sports bring a different kind of support to DC girls
The Washington Mystics and Monumental Sports, through a new nonprofit called EquipHer, gave away three free sports bras to every girl at Hart Middle School.
Tampa shooting under investigation after man found dead in business park: HCSO
Deputies are investigating a homicide after a man was found dead with gunshot wounds Tuesday afternoon in a Tampa business park, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Health & Wellbeing Capacity Building Series: From Vision to Action
The Health & Wellbeing Capacity Building Series: From Vision to Action is a five-session learning experience designed to help cities strengthen their ability to advance community wellbeing through…
Carderock Scientists Inspire Future Innovators at Calvert County MESA Day
Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division (NSWCCD) representatives engaged with students in a rural Maryland community during the Calvert County MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) Day at Huntingtown High School, April 9. Through an inspiring keynote speech and a live demonstration of a Boston Dynamics robot dog, Carderock scientists highlighted pathways to naval engineering careers, reinforcing the Navy's commitment to building the future STEM workforce by bridging the distance to underserved communities.
Despite Fast-paced Momentum, AMC Entertainment (AMC) Is Still a Bargain Stock
AMC Entertainment (AMC) made it through our 'Fast-Paced Momentum at a Bargain' screen and could be a great choice for investors looking for stocks that have gai
'Sports come second': Student-athletes work to balance between classroom, competition
For many college athletes, balancing academics and athletics isn’t achieved through last-minute emails or excuses about missed assignments.
On the Hill: Health Care Reauthorizations, Congressional Hearings
House leaders plan votes this week on reauthorizing rural health and telehealth programs, as well as a proposed directive on lung cancer research. Legislation to be taken up under suspension of the rules, which requires a two-thirds majority for passage, includes H.R. 2493, which would reauthorize rural health care grants through fiscal 2030, and has been unanimously approved by the House […]
National Small Business Week is Coming Up – Here’s How You Can Support
Voice of Business Blog National Small Business Week is being celebrated from Sunday, May 3rd, through Saturday, May 9th around the country, including right here in Greater Rochester, NY. Our small businesses have a massive economic impact in our community. A recent report from NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli found that 98.9% of all businesses in…
Pulitzer Prize winner shares historic nature of politics as U.S. celebrates 250th anniversary
Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and New York Times bestselling author Jon Meacham discussed the nature of American politics through pivotal moments in U.S. history. Meacham said that the nation was originally founded on the notion of politics as “an aspirational arena of contention,” where different interests were disputed before reaching a consensus. He added that conflicts regarding power and other matters are inevitable.
A Realm Reborn in Magic: The Gathering®—FINAL FANTASY™
Cameron Williams discusses how Magic: The Gathering—FINAL FANTASY's designers brought the critically acclaimed MMORPG to Magic.
Global health forward: Navigating scarcity in a fractured world through solidarity, equity, and shared responsibility
At the 2026 Global Health Symposium, hosted by the Harvard Global Health Institute (HGHI) on April 16, policymakers, practitioners, academics, and students gathered around a central idea: achieving global health equity in an age of scarcity requires moving from fragmented systems to shared responsibility.
Essentia Health receives American Cancer Society transportation, lodging grant to support cancer patients
The Essentia Health Cancer Center in Fargo is honored to receive a $35,000 grant from the American Cancer Society (ACS) to help alleviate some of the financial burden for patients undergoing cancer treatment through transportation and lodging assistance.
Shaky political science: using "simulated" elections over real-world elections
[Dear DSOS readers – this article is the latest in our “Shaky Political Science” series. In our 38 page report, “Shaky political ‘science’ misses mark on ranked choice voting,” released in early December, we examined over 40 studies focused on ranked choice voting. We found that many of these studies suffered from puzzling research methodologies, poorly constructed surveys, unrealistic simulated elections, cherry picked data, and faulty analyses that often were contradicted by results from real-world elections (a link to our full paper is here). Here are links to the first three articles in our series: the first one summarizing the overall results of our report, the second one analyzing a study co-authored by University of Minnesota academic Larry Jacobs, which was one of the most error-prone of all the research we reviewed in our report, and a third article showing an admirable example of two political scientists holding two other political scientists accountable for their flawed, sloppy research]. In this fourth article in our “Shaky Political Science” series, we shine a spotlight on seven studies that were web-hosted and funded by New America’s Political Reform Program and its Electoral Reform Research Group (the ERRG is an ad hoc committee headed by New America’s Political Reform Program and joined by the American Enterprise Institute, the Unite America Institute and Stanford University’s Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law). This research consortium has been led by Lee Drutman, senior fellow with New America’s Political Reform Program. These seven studies are simply not credible from any objective standard about how political “science” is supposed to illuminate our understanding of either ranked choice voting or politics in general. The feature that six of these seven studies have in common is that they all used surveys – artificial, simulated elections -- to attempt to say something cogent or interesting about ranked choice voting (RCV) elections. None of them used real world data from actual RCV elections – either the 1000+ elections in the US or the many thousands of elections from places like Australia, Ireland and elsewhere where RCV has been used for 100 years. While a few of these studies conclude with some mixed positives about RCV, our analysis here is content neutral. The idea that, with a political reform like RCV, you can ask respondents in a mock, artificial election to vote with that method, with only the barest of explanation about how RCV works or its likely impacts (i.e. no spoiler candidates, majority winners, voters liberated to pick their favorite candidates, coalition-building), and then ask them their thoughts/reactions about voting in that system, with fake candidates and no real campaigning, no real exposure to an actual election or actual candidates, rests on some very puzzling assumptions. The findings of these seven studies actually are contradicted by the findings from many other studies based on real-world RCV elections. These New America studies also failed to list the real-world RCV studies in their own citations, instead including those studies that reinforced their conclusions. The seven studies featured in this article were chosen because they form a cohesive cohort which precisely illustrates one of the main points of our research paper, namely that using surveys, i.e. artificial elections, or mathematical/theoretical models, instead of real-world data, is in fact “shaky political science.” Below are summaries of our analysis of five of the seven New America studies. You can read our complete analysis of all seven studies at our paper, “Shaky political ‘science’ misses mark on ranked choice voting.” Choosing to “Vote As Usual” by Andre Blais, Carolina Plescia, and Semra Sevi. New America. (Blais et al., 2021). This study, web-hosted and funded by New America’s Political Reform Program and its Electoral Reform Research Group, used two surveys in which respondents completed ballots for simulated elections using plurality, approval, RCV and point (Score) voting. In both cases the authors provided the respondents with only minimal explanation of each method. For example, the entire explanation for RCV was “For this vote, rank the candidates from your first to your last choice (you do not need to rank them all). This is called the ranked vote.” That’s it. The study did not provide any context or explanation to survey respondents about why she/he might want to rank multiple candidates. Participants were not even told that ballots would be tabulated using an “instant” runoff, not to mention any description of RCVs ability to eliminate the spoiler effect or liberate voters to rank their favorite candidates without fear of helping the “greater evil” candidate to win. That’s like taking an iPhone back in time to 1970 and asking someone if they like it better than their rotary phone without explaining how it works. Their first survey targeted states that held 2020 Super Tuesday Democratic primaries and used the real candidates’ names in the survey; the second survey used fictitious candidates. In other words, they surveyed respondents who had only ever participated in plurality elections, had no history or background with using RCV or any of the other methods, had no clue about its likely impacts, and did not communicate how the alternative methods would be counted, and then asked them: “How satisfied are you with using each system?” Predictably, the winner was plurality elections, the system used for president, Congress, gubernatorial and state legislative elections – in other words, the method they have been using, year after year, all their voting lives. With so little explanation of RCV and its impacts, this study is simply not credible in discovering anything useful about real-world RCV elections. It merely shows that a basic voter education campaign is needed when adopting a new election system. Additionally, the result contradicts many other post-election surveys following real RCV elections, asking opinions from voters who had just participated in a RCV election, that showed a great deal of satisfaction with RCV (see details on that in Studies 22-25 in our paper, as well as the four studies cited in the review for Study 28). Share Other studies on “satisfaction” and “understanding” make similar mistakes, in terms of basing their surveys on inadequate explanation to respondents and lack of education about context. How could any survey ever hope to measure accurately, in essence simulate a real-world election, without actual campaigning candidates, the media writing about those candidates, organizations endorsing candidates and voters being inundated with crucial information? More than anything, what these “studies” based on surveys show is that if you ask voters about something they don’t know very much about, and fail to adequately educate them, their responses will unsurprisingly reflect their confusion. Equally puzzling is that New America’s Electoral Reform Research Group, headed by political scientist Lee Drutman, found this to be a credible enough study that they not only published it but highlighted it in Drutman’s own discussion of research related to ranked choice voting. This pattern was repeated in study after study featured by New America’s Electoral Reform Research Group. For example in Ranked-Choice Voting and Political Expression: Voter Guides Narrow the Gap between Informed and Uninformed Citizens by Cheryl Boudreau, Jonathan Colner, and Scott MacKenzie, the researchers based their analysis on a survey which found that respondents who were asked to vote in a simulated RCV election, with minimal explanation of RCV or how it works, displayed less evidence of being informed about how to use RCV effectively, with the least informed voters ranking fewer candidates. As pointed out under the study above, in a real election voters are informed by a wide variety of methods, including public education by the election administration, by interested political groups, the media, and the candidates themselves who benefit from voters being aware of how to vote in the new system. In Support for Ranked-Choice Voting across Race and Partisanship by Joseph Anthony, David C. Kimball, Jack Santucci and Jamil Scott, the researchers used respondents from different parties and races voting in simulated plurality and RCV elections, who indicated their satisfaction with each voting method. Instead of using real world election results, the authors fell back on the easy, armchair and less reliable academic research methodology of making up mock elections. As with the other studies, little explanation was given of how RCV works or what its implications might be (electing majority winners or eliminating spoilers, for example). Unsurprisingly, this study found that respondents were not very satisfied with RCV. However, when the authors added an explanation that RCV has a tendency to elect more women and people of color, they found that this greater explanation increased the preference for RCV. The more voters were familiar with it, and the more they understood potential positive impacts – surprise! -- the more they were open to switching away from the status quo. Of note, the results from this study are thoroughly contradicted by a number of other studies whose data was obtained from real RCV elections with real voters. Those studies show a great deal of satisfaction with RCV. More “fake election” research An interesting wrinkle on this “research by fake elections” approach, which only served to illustrate how unreliable such “research” can become, was taken in Ranked-Choice Voting, Runoff, and Democracy: Insights from Maine and Other U.S. States by Joseph Cerrone and Cynthia McClintock_,_ also web-hosted and funded by New America’s ERRG. It gets high marks for creativity, but an eye-roll for thinking this could possibly add anything meaningful to our understanding of real world RCV elections. This study tried to determine whether RCV, plurality or two-round runoff elections provided greater voter satisfaction and acceptance of election results. To determine that, the authors conducted a survey asking if voters were satisfied with a fictional newspaper report of an election, with three different versions given to respondents – plurality, runoff and RCV, with variations of Republican/Democrat winners and variations of “come-from-behind” winners,” i.e. candidates not initially in first place but who win the “runoff.” Again, a minimal explanation of RCV or how it works was given, and the survey showed that respondents had the greatest unfamiliarity with RCV than the other methods. The unsurprising result? Respondents were much more satisfied with “come-from-behind” victories in a traditional two-round runoff election than in RCV, even though RCV is also a runoff system but with a single round of counting. Interestingly, the dissatisfaction with RCV disappeared for those who were more familiar with RCV. In fact, among those respondents who were “very familiar” with RCV, they were equally satisfied with RCV, runoff and plurality. Surprise, surprise. Again, what this study revealed, more than anything, is not only the inadequacy of the explanation for RCV given by the authors of this study, but the failure of the research format itself, thinking that such an artificial mock election could somehow simulate what actually happens in the real world in a real RCV election. Those four studies reviewed above are fitting examples of inadequate and shaky political “science.” Other studies reviewed in our paper from the New America/Electoral Reform Research Group cohort which also used mock elections included: Ranked-Choice Voting is an Acquired Taste by Joseph Anthony and David C. Kimball. New America. (Anthony et al., 2021). Ranked-Choice Voting is No Refuge for Extreme Candidates by Melissa Baker. New America. (Baker, 2021). Also included in this New America cohort is Does Ranked-Choice Voting Reduce Racial Polarization? by Yuki Atsusaka and Theodore Landsman, which actually did use real-world election results data but applied an odd and unconventional methodology to the data which relied on shaky assumptions and non-real-world scenarios that were too divorced from reality. To determine levels of “racially polarized voting,” the researchers imagined “ethnic parties,” by which they mean political parties for each ethnic group, which was especially odd since the election data they were using came from nonpartisan RCV races. But then they made an even odder assumption, namely that since race and ethnic characteristics of studied voters were not available, the authors tried to infer that information based on who voters selected and the racial make-up of voters in each district. This amounted to little more than vague and ambiguous guesswork dressed up with a bunch of mathematical equations used to give it a veneer of scientific appearance. Indeed, it seemed to assume racial polarization in order to prove racial polarization. Based on this questionable methodology, the authors concluded that RCV doesn’t reduce racial polarization. But the premise of this study missed an obvious reality: since RCV incentivizes more candidates to run and can result in more diverse fields of candidates, one would expect more racially-polarized voting in voters’ top rankings, not less, because more voters would have someone on that ballot who represents their racial or ethnic identity and more freedom to vote for their real first choice. By encouraging more diverse candidates and eliminating the spoiler effect, RCV facilitates voting for a favorite candidate of your own race and then selecting a second choice with the best likelihood of winning. The real measure is what voters do with their additional rankings – do they consider other candidates and vote “for the best of the rest”? This study didn’t tell us anything useful about that. But readily available data shows this is common in real RCV elections, and candidates act on this knowledge by engaging with voters outside their racial group. So the authors of this study failed to consider or account for what actually happens in real-world elections, and their conclusions are tainted by this failure. New America has contributed a great deal over the past 2.5 decades to our understanding of many policy areas, including politics and political reform (full disclosure: Steven Hill, one of the authors of this article and of the “Shaky Political Science” research paper and series, is a former senior fellow and former director of New America’s political reform program, 2005-2010). So it was especially disappointing that New America funded and published such a large batch of dubious studies about ranked choice voting. The stated praiseworthy goal of its Electoral Reform Research Group was to inspire new academic research about ranked choice voting that would shed light and help the public better understand the impacts of RCV. Instead, the ERRG research did just the opposite. It produced dubious research that created more confusion and misinformation. In so doing, New America’s political reform program contributed to “shaky political science.” Steven Hill and Paul Haughey Share Upgrade to $5 subscription Thanks for reading DemocracySOS, a reader-supported digital portal for the pro-democracy movement. Subscribe for only $5 per month to receive full benefits and to support our work. Subscribe
The Closer: Computer Science Grad Takes Every Project to the Finish Line
Computer science student Ashley Baird is the kind of person who thrives on completing what she starts. Baird's drive to see things through resulted in a successful machine learning project for the U.S. Department of Defense and an internship at Nissan working on the team that developed an industry-first personalized sound app.
Tyson funds Arkansas 3+1 Poultry Science scholarship
$100K gift supports transfer students in their final year pursuing poultry science degrees through the university program.
Yankees prospects: Week 4 minor league recap
In an overall rough week for the farm, rehab assignments stole the show across the upper levels.
Nintendo announces Splatoon Raiders Switch 2 release date with new trailer
The release date for Splatoon Raiders has just come through. As revealed through the Nintendo Today app, the game launches on July 23, 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2. It’s been close to a year since Splatoon Raiders was first revealed. Nintendo pulled back the curtain on the project last June, but we hadn’t heard anything since. Now it’s known that...
PGA TOUR and Front Office Sports Announce Content Agreement
The multi-year deal will bring fans closer to the business stories that dominate conversations through content from key PGA TOUR moments.
Kennedy hints at coming breakthrough device announcement
In this edition of STAT Health Tech: Health secretary hints at possible announcement on how breakthrough medical devices are paid for, and more.
California Water Science Center Scientists Share their Research at 2026 IEP Annual Workshop
From March 16th through the 18th, Scientists from the USGS California Water Science Center (CAWSC) presented their research at the 2026 Interagency Ecological Program (IEP) Workshop in Sacramento.
What can science fiction tell us about sex-change and the transsexual experience? | The Clayman Institute for Gender Research
Though science fiction describes future sociocultural worlds impacted by scientific and technological breakthroughs, a conundrum persists when it comes to science fiction on transgender, transsexual, and sex-change themes. Why is it that fantasies and imaginaries of sex-change in the breakthrough years of hormonal science did not register with authors writing science fiction in this period?
This new camera captures what happens in a trillionth of a second
Scientists have unveiled a breakthrough imaging method that can capture the hidden details of events unfolding in trillionths of a second. This new technique doesn’t just track how bright something is—it also reveals subtle structural changes that were previously invisible, all in a single shot. By effectively turning ultrafast phenomena into detailed “movies,” researchers can now watch plasma form, electrons move, and materials transform in real time.
Scientists sculpt Einstein onto a crystal using only light
A light-sensitive crystal is opening the door to a new era of “light-written” technology. Arsenic trisulfide can be reshaped and permanently altered using simple light, creating ultra-fine optical patterns without expensive manufacturing tools. Scientists even etched a nanoscale portrait of Einstein and high-density patterns that could act as secure optical signatures. This breakthrough could power everything from advanced sensors to next-generation AR devices.
A bizarre new state of matter may be hiding inside Uranus and Neptune
Deep inside planets like Uranus and Neptune, scientists may have uncovered a bizarre new state of matter where atoms behave in unexpected ways. Advanced simulations suggest that carbon and hydrogen, under crushing pressures and scorching temperatures, can form a strange hybrid phase—part solid, part fluid—where hydrogen atoms spiral through a rigid carbon framework. This unusual “superionic” structure could reshape how heat and electricity flow inside these distant worlds, potentially helping explain their mysterious magnetic fields.
Science On Screen Series Brings Films And Experts
LEWISBURG — In Lewisburg, the Campus Theatre will host Science on Screen events pairing films with expert discussions. Organizers say the series is supported by a national grant promoting science education through entertainment. Officials say the next event is April 23 at 7pm featuring “2001: A Space Odyssey” with physicist Alan Lightman. Organizers say the program explores
AI is changing how Texas universities teach computer science as job market slows
Admissions to Texas computer science programs are down roughly 20%, professors said, but they still see a future for their students.
3 HR must-dos new business owners need to know
Getting HR right from the start can set the tone for your entire business. That’s why in this episode of Small Business Smarts, we walk through three essential priorities every new business owner should focus on. For more information, visit ADP.com/SPARK
Fired former UK official says he felt political pressure to approve Mandelson as US ambassador
LONDON (AP) — The ex-civil servant behind the decision to approve Peter Mandelson’s appointment as British ambassador to Washington says he felt political pressure to rush through the appointment despite security concerns.
Tennis duo Sabalenka and Alcaraz sweep top Laureus sports honours
Barcelona's Yamal bags Young Sportsperson of the Year accolade a year after winning the Breakthrough award in 2025.
Between Providence And Boston Is A Vibrant Massachusetts Town Bursting With Diverse Entertainment
Foxborough, known as "Foxboro," is a lively Massachusetts town that's home to the Patriots, Gillette Stadium, and a diverse selection of local entertainment.
FSU's "Art in STEM" exhibition shows the beauty of science
The exhibition helps the FSU community "bridge the gap between scientific discovery and popular interest." Neighbors can view the exhibition at FSU's Dirac Science Library through the summer.
Ohio businesses rushing to apply for tariff refunds through newly opened portal
Hundreds of Ohio businesses are among those hoping to get a piece of the estimated $166 billion in tariffs that were collected unlawfully.
Mark your calendars: Weekly sports schedule for April 21-25
Take a look through the weekly sports schedule for the Central Coast. Read our coverage online or in print.
Dunlap students learn agriculture and business skills on school farm
Students in Dunlap are getting hands-on experience in agriculture while learning how to turn their work into a business through a school farm program.
Couple returns to Fairmont, brings business with
FAIRMONT— In the search for a slower pace and with a desire to help, Jill and Michael Boike have recently relocated to Fairmont, where Jill was born and raised, and they’ve brought their business, Therapy Connections, LLC, with. Jill and Michael met in Edina and have spent much of their life there, raising three daughters […]
Miranda Kerr: Ingredient transparency isn’t just about beauty
The model and founder of KORA Organics chats with Know Your Value founder and "Morning Joe" co-host Mika Brzezinski ahead of a special Earth Day event in Los Angeles.
‘Brought people to the table:’ Orlando business program promoting minorities, women officially replaced
Orlando city commissioners voted Monday to replace its Minority and Women Business program, nearly a year after it suspended the program.
New details about Louisiana gunman’s mental health
Shamar Elkins shot and killed eight young children, most of them his own on Sunday. His family says the 31-year-old recently sought mental health treatment through Veterans Affairs. NBC News’ Ryan Chandler reports from Shreveport.
Gas prices down last week in Santa Fe, across New Mexico
While prices remain high, the cost of fuel throughout New Mexico and the Santa Fe area declined last week, according to Thursday's AAA New Mexico Weekend Gas Watch.
Here are the top performances in the YAIAA for April 20-25
Follow along here to see the top daily performances across the YAIAA's spring sports. Updates will come throughout the week.
Cancer education made simple
Penn State Cancer Institute and Penn State College of Medicine are closing gaps in cancer prevention through innovative community outreach, education, screening events and research.
President Trump’s Landmark Order Advances Breakthrough Mental Health Treatments — Delivering New Hope to Veterans
This weekend, President Donald J. Trump signed a groundbreaking Executive Order accelerating research and improving access to psychedelic drugs as
Science Expeditions Campus Open House brings STEM wonder to the whole family - Morgridge Institute for Research
The Discovery Building and other venues across campus brought the magic of STEM discovery to visitors of all ages at Science Expeditions Campus Open House, a flagship spring event for science engagement.
New York lawmakers pass fifth state budget extender that runs through Wednesday
The state budget was due on April 1.
Val Ackerman, who guided Big East after team exodus, to retire
Val Ackerman is retiring this summer after leading the Big East as commissioner for 13 years, leading the conference through realignment and team exodus, as well as eight national championships during her tenure.
Lancaster Democratic candidates to host public town hall
Democratic legislative candidates Nancy Mannion, James Malone and Chad Gleissl will host a town hall Thursday in Manheim Borough to answer voter questions.
William Floyd Science Honor Society Inspires Next Generation of Scientists
William Floyd High School Science Honor Society (SHS), under the guidance of Ms. Anya Swiss, high school science teacher, SHS advisor and NYS Master Teacher, recently hosted two virtual “Science Exploration Days” for elementary students across the district. During these interactive sessions, high school students led younger students through an investigation of Oobleck — a unique non-Newtonian fluid made of cornstarch and water — to explore the fundamental properties of the states of matter.
Xfinity Kicks Off Member Celebration with Three Weeks of Exclusive Entertainment, Sports, Live Experiences and Savings from Comcast NBCUniversal
Comcast’s Xfinity today launched its Xfinity Member Celebration, a limited-time event running through May 10 that delivers three weeks of bonus benefits, swe...
Xfinity Kicks Off Member Celebration with Three Weeks of Exclusive Entertainment, Sports, Live Experiences and Savings from Comcast NBCUniversal
PHILADELPHIA, April 20, 2026--Comcast’s Xfinity today launched its Xfinity Member Celebration, a limited-time event running through May 10 that delivers three weeks of bonus benefits, sweepstakes, and exclusive experiences for Xfinity members. Members can also unlock special Xfinity product offers, featuring savings on mobile devices, smartwatches, and smart home technology, with even more value available at higher membership tiers. The celebration spotlights the unmatched power of Xfinity membe
Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced Showcase Announced
Players will finally be able to see Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced in all its glory through a showcase later this week.
Santiago Canyon’s Community Science Night makes education fun for younger students
Students and their families from throughout Orange County are invited to the Friday evening event.
Trump tariff refunds begin but consumers likely to miss out
Businesses can apply online through a portal for refunds expected to total $160bn.