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Iran downplays indirect talks with U.S.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to speak at the UN General Assembly Wednesday
Spotify's is giving you the keys to its recommendation algorithm with US launch of 'Taste Profile'
Spotify is rolling out Taste Profile to Premium users in the U.S., letting listeners see how the streamer understands their tastes and use natural language to reshape their recommendations
Quanome Advances Its AI Cloud Business XDT with US$18.8 Million Infrastructure Purchase Agreement
Company Advances Development of First U.S. AI Infrastructure Hub, Executes Its Quantum & AI Systems Strategy ITASCA, Ill., Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Quanome Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: QNME) (“Quanome” or the “Company”) is advancing its Quantum and AI Systems business through an approximately US$18.8 million purchase agreement for computing infrastructure powered by NVIDIA GPU technology to build its AI cloud business through its subsidiary, XDT Infrastructure I, LLC (“XDT”). The Compan
Lonely? Socially isolated? It may cost you 6 healthy years of life
The numbers paint a grim picture. Roughly half of all U.S. adults are lonely, according to a 2023 report, and nearly as many feel socially isolated. Though just as serious as other health risks, loneliness ...
US must protect chip technology from China, expert warns
Rep. John Moolenaar warns that the U.S. must win the AI arms race against China. The House China Select Committee chair urges the U.S. to restrict Chinese access to advanced chip-making technology to protect national security.
AI CEO on China's space threat, AI development
Vanter CEO Dan Smoot joins the show to discuss China's impact on space satellites and technology. He analyzes President Donald Trump's comments on artificial intelligence and the importance of maintaining the U.S. tech lead.
Elizabeth Pipko reacts to President Trump's UN warnings to Iran
Elizabeth Pipko joins Cheryl Casone to discuss President Donald Trump's UN General Assembly speech warning Iran and the signing of the U.S.-Denmark-Greenland security deal.
Talarico works to reach Black voters in his bid to win a US Senate seat as a Democrat in Texas
Democratic Texas U.S. Senate nominee James Talarico is working to reach Black voters, a key demographic in his race against Republican state Attorney General Ken Paxton
I’m a Republican senator. The U.S. needs a stronger NIH.
America should invest in medical research, not retreat from it.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is finally getting One UI 9 in the US, but there's a catch
Samsung has started rolling out the Android 17-based One UI 9 update to some Galaxy S26 Ultra owners in the U.S.
Voters don’t like data centers. They really don’t like them close to home
Fifty-eight percent of U.S. voters say the construction of new data centers by tech will mostly have a negative effect on the country. And 65% of voters oppose construction in their communities.
A look at the legacy and influence Nancy Pelosi will leave behind when she retires
Rep. Nancy Pelosi will retire following the 2026 midterm elections, ending her almost 40-year career in Congress, but leaving a lasting influence on U.S. politics.
CDC survey finds mental health and suicide risk among U.S. teens has improved
The CDC's latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey highlights students' diets, sleep and nutrition, which are priorities for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Stony Brook Hosts Congressional Briefing on Quantum Technology
A Stony Brook congressional briefing examined U.S. quantum networking, workforce development and federal investment priorities.
Britain's JD Sports says Nike turnaround is only a matter of time
Nike is taking the right steps to revive its business and a turnaround is only a matter of time, said the finance chief of British sports and fashion retailer JD Sports , one of the U.S. group's largest customers.
Britain's JD Sports says Nike turnaround is only a matter of time
Nike is taking the right steps to revive its business and a turnaround is only a matter of time, said the finance chief of British sports and fashion retailer JD Sports , one of the U.S. group's largest customers.
Will P&G’s (PG) New Science-Led Head & Shoulders and Oral-B iO Push Change Its Narrative?
In recent months, Procter & Gamble has rolled out new Head & Shoulders formulations featuring the HydraZinc Complex and expanded its Oral-B iO line, emphasizing clinically tested scalp and oral care technologies now available across multiple product collections in the U.S. market. These launches highlight how Procter & Gamble is leaning on science-led product innovation to reinforce its brands and support its broader shift from pricing-driven growth toward offering more tangible consumer...
AI-generated political ads warp reality ahead of U.S. midterms
The largely unregulated form of political communication is increasingly being adopted despite a broader backlash against AI-generated content.
Trump-backed Missouri congressional map returns to the Supreme Court for the third time
WASHINGTON (AP) — The fight over Missouri's congressional map returned to the U.S. Supreme Court for a third time late Tuesday, after an appeals court ordered t
Pete Buttigieg Slams ‘Corruption’ in US Politics: ‘Corporate Money Is Flooding the Election’ and Big Pharma Will ‘Get Their Way’
Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg criticized what he described as corruption in U.S. politics, arguing that corporate money and political incentives have left Americans without a system t...
U.S. Army Pacific Builds Mental Health Resilience and Community Empowerment Across the Federated States of Micronesia
FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA— The U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) Oceania Engagement Team (OET) and USARPAC Chaplain Directorate recently completed a two-...
GOP senator calls for probe into Trump family business dealings
WASHINGTON >> A Republican U.S. senator today called for an investigation into whether President Donald Trump’s family is profiting from his time in office, saying any perception that family members are exploiting their position undermines trust in the government.
Knitted emotional support chickens bring national attention to an L.A. small business
The Knitting Tree, L.A., has been recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for its 2026 "Top 100 Small to Midsize Businesses in America" awards.
Indian Health Service Awards $3.5 Million for Tribal Food and Nutrition Initiatives
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Indian Health Service, has awarded $3.5 million to 14 Tribal and urban Indian communities.
Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, North Lumber & Home Center
Read the release on Sen. Ernst's website HERE. Throughout this Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties. RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: North Lumber & Home Center of Decatur County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa's 99 counties. “North Lumber & Home Center has truly gotten to the root of what it means to be a hardworking, dedicated small business” said Chair Ernst. “For more than four decades, this family-owned and operated business has continued to branch out by providing quality services and staying actively engaged in its community.” In 1980, current owner Sally Dykes and her family purchased North Lumber. As the family continued to expand their inventory and operations to better serve its customers, they renamed the business to North Lumber & Home Center. In 2002, they opened a second store in Lamoni, Iowa. Today, Sally continues to run the lumberyard and building materials supplier business alongside her son, Tony Dykes. Stay tuned as Chair Ernst continues to recognize outstanding Iowa small businesses with her Small Business of the Week award. ###
U.S. Senate, Texas Railroad Commission races remain tight less than month before early voting, TSU poll finds
A second poll, from Texas 2036, shows a large fraction of voters remain undecided, while many intend to split their tickets.
North Star Health Alliance cuts nearly 600 jobs, job center reports few seeking help
North Star Health Alliance has cut nearly 600 jobs in the past year, according to information revealed last week in U.S. Bankruptcy Court.
Russia's neighbor reveals personal appeals to Trump as US weighs NATO troop pullback in Europe
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda revealed he sent two letters to Trump urging U.S. troops to stay on NATO's eastern flank amid Russia threat.
Fox News ratings move 7 of Florida's U.S. House contests in Democrats' direction
Sabato's Crystal Ball also reassessed the situation in Florida's 27th Congressional District.
Abdul El-Sayed says Kamala Harris' visit for his Michigan U.S. Senate race is about Democratic unity
El-Sayed said Harris, who will attend a roundtable on Black maternal health with him and separately join an event hosted by the Detroit chapter of the NAACP, is a critical advocate in helping him close ranks as he tries to defeat Republican Mike Rogers.
Abdul El-Sayed says Kamala Harris' visit for his Michigan U.S. Senate race is about Democratic unity
El-Sayed said Harris, who will attend a roundtable on Black maternal health with him and separately join an event hosted by the Detroit chapter of the NAACP, is a critical advocate in helping him close ranks as he tries to defeat Republican Mike Rogers.
Trump attacks WA 'millionaires tax' as he endorses GOP candidate
President Donald Trump reiterated his "complete and total endorsement" for U.S. Rep. Michael Baumgartner in a video posted on Truth Social.
Duckworth slams Trump for ‘cozying up’ to Xi as Illinois waits on China trade
The Illinois senator says promised Chinese purchases of U.S. farm goods and Boeing aircraft have been slow to materialize as Trump prepares to host Xi Jinping at the White House.
UT Haslam Ranked Top 25 in Undergraduate Business by U.S. News & World Report
/PRNewswire/ -- The Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, held the No. 25 spot for a second year in a row among public colleges...
Country star overthrows Mariah Carey’s record for longest-running No. 1 song in U.S. history
Carey previously held the title with her perennial Christmas smash “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” though a rising country act has now shattered the record.
Trump-backed Senate candidate says 'Groceries cost too much,' calls for Iran war to 'end quickly'
Trump-backed Michigan Republican U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers declared in a video that "Groceries cost too much" and the Iran war "needs to end, and end quickly."
U.S. News 2027 Best Business Schools Ranking: Wharton Reclaims The Solo Crown
U.S. News’ 2027 undergraduate business ranking puts Wharton alone at No. 1. Plus specialty leaders and the ranking's biggest movers.
How Ella Langley's 'Choosin' Texas' became the longest-running No. 1 hit of all time
Ella Langley’s song “Choosin’ Texas” is officially the longest-running No. 1 single in the U.S., spending 23 weeks at the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 | KNX News 1070 AM
Trump signs U.S.-Denmark-Greenland agreement to bolster Arctic security
The move eases tensions over his repeated calls for Greenland to become part of the United States
Travelers: Cyber threats reclaim top spot among business concerns
Cyber threats again rank as U.S. businesses' top concern as AI creates new risks and gaps in companies' own defenses.
Urbandale to host Civility Dialogues event today
A community conversation focused on how people can disagree without losing the ability to work together and finding common ground will take place today at the Urbandale High School Performing Arts Center. The free Civility Dialogues event will feature Tom Vilsack, CEO of the World Food Prize Foundation and former Iowa governor and U.S. secretary…
Durable Business Strengths Underpin Vontier Corp’s (VNT) Long-Term Growth Outlook
The London Company, an investment management company, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter for its “Small Cap Strategy.” U.S. equities rebounded in the quarter, driven by AI infrastructure spending and positive earnings. The letter can be downloaded here. Despite this optimism, rate outlook uncertainty persisted. Technology, previously weak, surged to lead the market, especially in semiconductors, […]
NSSF’s Lawrence Keane Appointed to Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council
WASHINGTON, D.C. — NSSF®, The Firearm Industry Trade Association, celebrates the appointment of Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF’s Senior Vice President & General Counsel, to the Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation and Access Council (HSSCAC). The Council will provide the U.S. Secretary of the Interior and the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture with advice regarding the establishment […]
Pittsburgh university just named No. 1 for computer science by US News
Pittsburgh universities made U.S. News & World Report's list of 2027's Best Universities.
Scientists develop real-time AI monitoring for an advanced nuclear reactor component
Just as a clogged kitchen sink can bring household routines to a halt, a blockage in a nuclear reactor's heat exchanger can slow operations and require urgent attention. Researchers at the U.S. Department ...
Texas Senate race focuses on high prices — but what can candidates actually do about it?
Affordability has dominated the U.S. Senate race in Texas. Both James Talarico and Ken Paxton have promised to help voters' pocketbooks.
RFK Jr.-linked group offered access to U.S. officials for a fee
A nonprofit with ties to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. solicited payment from companies in exchange for access to top agency officials at an upcoming event, documents show.
Climate scientists fired by Trump step in to fill U.S. report gap
The future of national climate assessments remains murky after the Trump administration dismissed hundreds of scientists.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard warns U.S. over escalation
The IRG warned Monday that it would “change the geography of the war” if the United States escalates the conflict
Sabbatical Spotlight: Associate Professor of Political Science Jeremy Strickler
Dr. Jeremy Strickler, an associate professor of political science and UTC faculty member since 2016, used his professional development leave to advance research on presidential leadership and U.S. drug control policy, co-author a book chapter about camping, and develop a new course on American political culture.
HOMETOWN HEALTH: “Women have carried this alone for generations” Senate holds first-ever hearing on menopause care gap
More than 1 million U.S. women go through menopause every year, according to the hearing.
“Politics Are Desperately Important at the Moment”: Bill McKibben on Midterms, Trump & Climate Crisis
Ahead of the midterm elections, activist and writer Bill McKibben says he has been traveling across the United States with Third Act, the environmental group he founded to harness the power of seniors who care about the climate and democracy. “These elections are also starting to set the groundwork for 2028,” says McKibben, who calls the next U.S. presidential vote “maybe the last election that happens in a timeframe when we still really have an opportunity to affect some of the outcomes of these things.”
Rice rises to No. 16 in US News rankings as engineering, business programs climb
Rice has climbed one spot to No. 16 in the nation in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings, with the university also earning top 10 recognition for value, undergraduate teaching and student experience.
McDonald's is hosting an investor day as its U.S. business struggles. Here are 4 things to expect
The presentation comes as McDonald's U.S. business disappointed in its most recent quarter.
Operator of 314 Wendy's locations in the U.S. files for bankruptcy protection
Dublin, Ohio-based Wendy’s has been struggling for several years with outdated stores, high beef prices and stiff competition.
China's Alibaba unveils new powerful chip and ambitious AI model plans
China's Alibaba has unveiled new plans for its AI model and new chip technologies, including what it claims is China's most powerful AI chip. This launch comes as U.S. AI
Minogue calls for federal probe into $2B state contract awarded to political heavyweights
Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue is calling on U.S. Attorney Leah Foley to investigate “everything around” the $2 billion state contract awarded to politically connected bidders.
Watchdog says Messmer's taxpayer-funded TV ad part of larger problem
U.S. Rep. Mark Messmer insists his recent taxpayer-funded, campaign-like commercial wasn't political. A watchdog says it shows reforms are needed.
UC Berkeley Engineering rises to No. 2 undergraduate program in U.S. News rankings
The college remains top public engineering program in the nation
Carnegie Mellon University Reaches Historic High at No. 14 in U.S. News Rankings, Takes No. 1 Spot for Computer Science
Carnegie Mellon University has achieved its highest position in the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, climbing six spots to No. 14 nationally in the 2027 list.
MIT named the nation’s top university by U.S. News for 2026-27
MIT tops U.S. News and World Report’s 2026-27 rankings of the nation’s best colleges and universities.
‘College sports is in chaos’: Protect College Sports Act advances through Senate
The U.S. Senate could vote as soon as this week to move the Protect College Sports Act of 2026 to the U.S. House of Representatives after the Senate voted on Sept. 17 to advance the bill to final debate. This sweeping new bill would protect Olympic sports, reshape how universities compensate athletes and regulate name,...
Detroit Evening Report: Companies give seniors produce boxes to promote brain health on Alzheimer's Day
Also U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers shares his plan for healthcare, a nonprofit seeks English instructor volunteers and more.
China’s Leader Xi Seeks to Extend Truce with Trump During U.S. Summit
Facing an American president constrained by war and politics, China’s leader may seek to lock in a tactical truce while he shores up a fragile economy at home.
SBA offering low-interest loans for businesses impacted by drought
UMATILLA COUNTY — The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering disaster assistance for businesses in Oregon, Washington and Idaho that were impacted by drought this year. The SBA announced […]
Connecticut, Arizona congresswomen celebrate Hispanic-owned businesses in Fair Haven
FAIR HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — Two congresswomen toured Grand Avenue in Fair Haven Monday, showcasing the contributions, hard work and impact of Hispanic-owned businesses in Connecticut. U.S. Rep. Rosa…
As world leaders converge on U.S., Trump seeks to demonstrate control
The president's actions stand to color the backdrop of a week that will feature meetings with world leaders at the U.N. and a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Britain's Burnham to meet Trump and make UN debut after offering UK military support for Saudis
Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to meet U.S. President Donald Trump for the first time.
Presidents Cup week begins with U.S. juniors' record rout
The U.S. recorded the largest margin of victory in the Junior Presidents Cup with a 17.5-6.5 victory over the Internationals on Monday at Medinah Country Club.
Women of Sutter Health: Shaping the Future of Medicine
The face of medicine is changing. Women now make up nearly 40% of practicing physicians in the United States, up from 26% in 2004 and comprise a majority of U.S. medical school students. At Sutter Health, women are helping shape the future of healthcare through research, specialized care and medical education — making a lasting […]
What a Trump order to put political appointees in charge of NIH funding would mean for science
Advocates and scientists warn that giving political appointees power over research grants would “upend” U.S. science
What a Trump order to put political appointees in charge of NIH funding would mean for science
Advocates and scientists warn that giving political appointees power over research grants would “upend” U.S. science
Amazon makes $20 million bet on the Colorado River
Amazon has launched what it calls one of the biggest corporate water conservation efforts for a single U.S. watershed with a pledge to invest $20 million into the Colorado River
As China and U.S. compete for AI dominance, both have shared concerns over safety
U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are expected to meet this week to discuss artificial intelligence.
Scientists Report Continuing Harms to U.S. Science in Second-Year Survey
A survey of scientists across a variety of life sciences details how federal government policies have created ongoing disruptions to American research and the scientific workforce.
Suozzi To Be Recognized as First Democratic Member of Congress To Be Awarded U.S. Chamber’s “Advocate for American Business” Award
GLEN COVE, NY — Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03) was recognized today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with its “Advocate for American Business” Award during a stop of the Chamber’s national Free Enterprise Express Opportunity Tour at Standard Bots in Glen Cove. U.S.
Trump decries Democrats as ‘communists,’ even as he looks to impress China’s communist leader
WASHINGTON (AP) — Communism, President Donald Trump says, is the greatest threat the U.S. has ever faced. This summer, citing similarly grave concerns, he took the rare step of delivering a primetime address to the nation, accusing China of “sinister election meddling” in 2020 and reviving his yearslong push to dispute his loss in that […]
Zelensky said Trump agrees to speak in New York for diplomatic meeting
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced plans for a high-stakes meeting with President Donald Trump in New York. As the Ukraine-Russia war continues for more than four years, the U.S. has provided support valued at billions. Zelensky and Trump have had a strained relationship as the U.S. president balances relations with Ukraine and Russian leader Vladimir […]
Gary Peters to join USC Center for the Political Future after Senate term
Sen. Gary Peters has announced his next plans after his term in the U.S. Senate ends in January.
Michigan Sen. Gary Peters to lead USC political center. What he'll do
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters will co-lead the Center for the Political Future at USC after his Senate term ends in 2027.
Should You Buy PepsiCo Stock Because Its International Business Keeps Accelerating?
PepsiCo (PEP) stock traded at $129.75 on September 18, the lowest price of its past 52 weeks. The worry is North America, where sales of snacks and drinks have disappointed. Yet the part of PepsiCo that sells outside the U.S. is growing faster and earning more on each sale. The share price appears to give that part little credit.
Travel health insurance
Travel health insurance Do you have a friend or relative traveling to the Dominican Republic? Encourage them to get travel health insurance before they depart the U.S. to avoid possible medical emergencies becoming financial emergencies, too. Many travelers ask, “Why would I need travel health insurance–I have health insurance?” But your domestic U.S. health insurance may not work overseas. Hospitals here in the Dominican Republic often require payment in full prior to the patient being treated or being discharged. Some private U.S. insurance companies pay for overseas medical care, but usually only on a reimbursable basis, meaning you must pay first and request reimbursement later. The U.S. government does not pay for medical care overseas, and Medicare does not cover medical or hospital expenses incurred outside the United States. In addition, if the traveler needs to be medically evacuated for any reason, this is not covered by most U.S insurance and usually costs well over $10,000 USD. Travel medical insurance can alleviate this cost burden. Don’t let unexpected medical costs ruin your vacation! Please review more information here on Travel.State.Gov and on the Embassy website’s page on Medical Emergency – U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic.
In limbo: Nevada Salvadorans with TPS protections await DHS decision
Salvadorans with Temporary Protected Status in Nevada, some of whom have called the U.S. home for a quarter-century, don’t know how long they’ll be able to legally remain in the country.
Record-high diesel prices squeezing small business margins amid Middle East tensions
U.S. Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler discusses new SBA capital initiatives and Gen-Z business trends as diesel prices hit record highs.
Kelly Loeffler warns of 'silver tsunami' as boomer business owners retire
U.S. Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler discusses the economic impact of the 'silver tsunami' on small businesses. She details how the agency supports millennials transitioning into skilled blue-collar trades.
What the rise of microdramas tells us about the entertainment industry
In the U.S., 66 million people watched one regularly last year.
Britain’s Burnham is set to meet Trump for the first time at the UN in New York
Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to meet U.S. President Donald Trump for the first time. The meeting will take place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Burnham plans to discuss ways to bolster Ukraine's defenses and ease fuel prices that have soared since the US-Israeli war with Iran blocked ships from moving freely through the Strait of Hormuz. Burnham, once critical of Trump, now says he wants to seek common ground. Trump has called Burnham “a nice guy,” but has also concerned U.K. officials by expressing support for Irish unification and musing about the future of the Falkland Islands.
2026 midterm elections on track for record political ad spending, report finds
The 2026 midterms are on track to be the most expensive in U.S. history, according to the Wesleyan Media Project, which reports that $4 billion has already been spent on political advertising.
From the Editor: Politics has taken taken top billing in Maine this year
Maine's political races have been in the spotlight this year, with attention on battles for seats in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, as well as Blaine House.
Gary Peters to direct USC politics center in post-Senate role
Michigan's outgoing senior U.S. senator has secured a new job on the West Coast after his term ends in January.
Largest U.S. survey of Huguette Caland's work arrives at Hammer Museum
The Lebanese-born painter, sculptor and fashion designer Huguette Caland's life was as wild and audacious as her art. A Hammer Museum retrospective unpacks the once L.A.-based artist's remarkable legacy.
Despite court wins, California election war with Trump rages on
L.A. County says it has received federal grand jury subpoenas demanding voter registration information on dozens of individuals the Trump administration suspects may not be U.S. citizens.
Michigan’s two major party candidates for U.S. Senate offer differing ideas for health care
The two U.S. senate candidates from Michigan offer vastly different ideas for health care. As Russ McNamara reports, lowering costs for consumers is the goal for both.
The Battle to Turn Consumers Into Effective Health Care Shoppers
A seminar explores government efforts to encourage U.S. consumers to comparison shop for their health care needs
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters to lead USC Dornsife’s Center for the Political Future, named Warschaw Chair
The Michigan Democrat will serve alongside Republican strategist Mike Murphy, bringing a record of bipartisan lawmaking and plans to expand the center’s presence in Washington.
Whether you like it or not, celebrities have an impact on politics
The global groundswell of support for Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian advocacy serves to remind us that maybe celebrity activism really is that deep after all, writes Cheek’s Varsha Yajman. Subscribe In the last week, publications, podcasts, and influencers that have either rarely or never spoken about Israel’s genocide in Palestine have flooded my social feed. And it was all because singer Ed Sheeran and his team dropped Macklemore as his opener for saying “Free Palestine” on stage. Millions raised, millions speaking up in support of Palestine - all of this confirming my view that, whether I like it or not, celebrities do have an impact on political outcomes. And this is interesting when much of the time celebrity activism can induce an eye roll - I love to see Charli XCX pointing out a Palestinian flag in the crowd, but it’s hardly the bold symbol of allyship that some fans would make it out to be. But there’s a line between healthy scepticism and outright dismissal - and I’d argue that the latter lets the rich and powerful off far too easily. For instance, actress Jennifer Lawrence, once outspoken about her political views, last year told The Times she no longer believes celebrities have a role to play: “Celebrities do not make a difference whatsoever on who people vote for. So then what am I doing? I’m just sharing my opinion on something that’s going to add fuel to a fire that’s ripping the country apart.” While it’s a narrative she might find comfort in, it simply is not true. Grassroots movements often garner worldwide attention when celebrities and other high-profile spokespeople bring a mainstream platform to their causes. And this frustrates me. We have had three years of a live-streamed genocide. Macklemore himself has been calling for a Free Palestine long before he booked the Sheeran concert. Yet it’s the high-profile fallout of the last week that finally seems to have made saying “Free Palestine” socially acceptable in the mainstream. It feels like the collective mood has shifted, where calling out censorship is now the obvious response - not just the business of ‘radical’ activists. To recap, Sheeran’s decision followed an ultimatum from billionaire Robert Kraft, owner of Gillette Stadium, one of the venues Sheeran was scheduled to perform at: either drop Macklemore as your opener after only two of the eight scheduled shows, or you do not play at any stadiums. Sheeran’s disappointing decision to stand on the side of billionaire-led censorship has ultimately seen a surge in support for Free Palestine. It began when all his openers and his backing band pulled out of Sheeran’s tour, in solidarity with Macklemore and with the Palestinian cause. It was met with an uproar of support from those who had never or barely touched politics before: influencers lip-syncing to Macklemore’s music, singers like Jack Antonoff singing “Free Palestine,” and publications and podcasts standing with Macklemore. And finally, we saw material support: Macklemore donated $1 million in profits from his two nights opening for Sheeran’s tour to several Palestinian aid groups and called for Sheeran and Kraft to match it, which they have since promised to do. We’ve also seen children’s entertainer Ms Rachel follow suit with a $1 million donation to Palestinian aid, and publication PopBase has donated $10,000. Anera, a humanitarian aid group working in Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan, said donations since Macklemore’s announcement were more than triple this month’s daily average. The group’s Instagram page has also gained 8,000 followers. Macklemore far from the first celebrity to speak and participate in politics in the Western World. In 1924, singer Al Jolson supported Republican candidate Warren G. Harding for president, and decades later, celebrities such as Harry Belafonte, Lena Horne, and Aretha Franklin voiced their public support for the Civil Rights movement. More recently, in the lead-up to the 2024 US election, ‘The Daily Show with Trevor Noah partnered with the organisation Power the Polls to recruit poll workers to address shortages- a problem disproportionately affecting voters of colour. The campaign saw 170,000 new sign-ups - 35,000 of which came directly through the TV show’s link - resulting in the recruitment of 713,000 total poll workers that year, an almost three-fold increase on the organisation’s goal. Alongside recruiting workers, celebrities in the US (where voting in elections is not compulsory) have made a huge difference by calling for people to register to vote. Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris in 2024 saw over 400,000 visitors on the voter registration site within 24 hours of her Instagram post. In 2023, Swift had urged her fans to register, resulting in 35,000 new voter registrations. Similarly, Ariana Grande promoted voter registration in 2019 by setting up booths at concerts on the American leg of her tour, resulting in over 33,000 voters registering. And the same thing is happening closer to home. This year, musician Jack River successfully called for government action to ensure creatives in Australia do not have their work scraped by generative AI companies. Celebrity as the mediator between the punter and the politician Celebrity activism isn’t just a feel-good news story - research tells us it actually makes a difference. By directing attention to issues affecting the average person, like voting inaccessibility or a lack of action on a genocide, researchers Alfred Archer and Amanda Cawston state that “celebrities can play a useful bridging role between political elites and the people they represent”. Alternatively, in a world where talking about politics is “not cool,” or where people lack exposure or knowledge to engage with politics, celebrities can act as an educational resource or an entry point into the political world - when they speak up about an issue, their audience gets exposed to it. Olivia Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields festival is a perfect example. Rodrigo partnered with twelve organisations focused on women’s issues, such as reproductive rights. These organisations had stalls at the festival for people to meet them and were also featured heavily on social media, giving their issues global attention and raising $20 million for the organisations. We have also seen celebrities at award shows such as the Emmys wearing F*CK ICE pins, referring to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s treatment and detainment of people - generally people of colour. When celebrities speak up about political issues in public forums, they put the issue at the forefront of mainstream media, rally their supporters, and make it clear that, however much they disagree, the government cannot simply ignore it. Our over-reliance on celebrities versus our politicians As much as I love seeing my favourite celebrity use their platform for a good cause, there is an important question to ask: not whether celebrity activism is good or bad, but whether we should have to rely on celebrities. And the answer would, in an ideal world, be no. In an ideal world, or merely a just world, action on Palestine would’ve happened decades ago, climate change would be taken seriously, and most importantly, people would understand their democratic rights. However, that is not our reality. Only around 28 per cent of Australian Year 10 students reach proficiency in civics and citizenship. In the US, almost two-thirds of people under 30 say high school civics education didn’t prepare them to understand voting deadlines, how to research candidates, or how to vote by mail. When civics education is weak, our trust in these institutions and our understanding of change-making processes also decline. This is where celebrity steps in and becomes our main source of reliance. As Mary R. Connelly notes in _The Tartan, “_Celebrities will always be involved in campaigns in one form or another, but their presence is not what causes people to vote blindly. The lack of political engagement and literacy is what allows celebrities to wield their influence on the political sphere so impactfully.” About the author Varsha Yajman is the Digital Content Producer at Cheek Media. She is a youth advocate and lawyer with a background in climate litigation and is passionate about looking at the intersection between race, climate justice, and mental health. Thanks for reading Cheek Media Co. ! This post is public so feel free to share it. Share
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Culturally Relevant Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Care Strategies
(Feature Impact) Driven by rising rates of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and other risk factors, cardiovascular disease has surpassed cancer as the leading cause of death among Hispanic adults in the United States. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('fixed-big-ad-top-asset'); }); Hispanic people represent nearly 1 in 5 of the U.S. population and are the nation’s largest ethnic minority group, yet many continue to face barriers to achieving heart health and accessing high-quality healthcare. A new scientific statement published in the American Heart Association’s flagship journal, “Circulation,” revealed how social, economic, cultural and environmental factors contribute to persistent disparities in cardiovascular health, calling for culturally tailored prevention strategies, equitable access to care and greater representation of Hispanic populations in cardiovascular research.“Hispanic populations in the U.S. are incredibly diverse even within their own communities with differences in genetic ancestry, language, cultural traditions and social experiences that can significantly influence cardiovascular health,” said Johanna Contreras, M.D., M.Sc., FAHA, director of the Division of Heart Failure and medical director of the Hispanic Heart Center within the Mount Sinai Health System. “Yet Hispanic people remain underrepresented overall in the research that guides prevention and treatment strategies… Without better representation and more detailed data, we risk overlooking important differences that can help us improve care and save lives.”Hispanic Cardiovascular Health by the NumbersCardiovascular risk factors – obesity (nearly 46%), type 2 diabetes (15.5%) and high blood pressure (approximately 44%) – are prevalent among Hispanic adults and often emerge at younger ages and occur more frequently among Hispanic adults compared with white adults.According to the report, only about 1 in 5 Hispanic adults achieves ideal cardiovascular health as defined by the American Heart Association’s original Life’s Simple 7 metrics. Updated analyses using the Life’s Essential 8 framework demonstrated persistent disparities for heart and brain health, as well as suboptimal dietary quality, sleep patterns and levels of physical activity.Social and Economic Barriers MatterBiology alone does not explain cardiovascular health disparities. The environments where people live, work and age, along with social and economic challenges, impact heart health. In fact, approximately 17% of Hispanics live below the federal poverty threshold, compared with 8.2% of white adults. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('fixed-big-ad-middle-asset'); }); “Many Hispanic adults face obstacles that extend far beyond the doctor’s office,” Contreras said. “Limited health insurance coverage, language differences, food insecurity, environmental exposures and concerns related to immigration status can make it more difficult to prevent disease, manage chronic conditions and receive timely treatment.”Contreras emphasized the cultural values and practices of Hispanic people also influence how they perceive their health and healthcare options.“Family plays a central role in many Hispanic communities and can be an extraordinary source of strength, support and resilience,” Contreras said. “At the same time, family members are often called upon to translate medical information, navigate health systems and help make healthcare decisions for loved ones. Those responsibilities can shape how health information is understood and acted upon.”An Action Plan for Improving Hispanic HealthThere are practical opportunities to achieve equitable cardiovascular health and reduce disparities through community engagement, culturally responsive care, inclusive research and policies that address the underlying drivers of health.“Reducing cardiovascular disease among Hispanic populations demands action at every level,” Contreras said, “from improving access to culturally responsive care and expanding research participation to addressing the social and environmental conditions that shape health.”By addressing both medical risk factors and the social conditions that shape health, experts believe there is an important opportunity to reduce disparities and help more people live longer, healthier lives. Learn more at Heart.org.Photo courtesy of Shutterstock googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('fixed-big-ad-bottom-asset'); });
Culturally Relevant Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Care Strategies
(Feature Impact) Driven by rising rates of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and other risk factors, cardiovascular disease has surpassed cancer as the leading cause of death among Hispanic adults in the United States.Hispanic people represent nearly 1 in 5 of the U.S. population and are the nation’s largest ethnic minority group, yet many continue to face barriers to achieving heart health and accessing high-quality healthcare. A new scientific statement published in the American Heart Association’s flagship journal, “Circulation,” revealed how social, economic, cultural and environmental factors contribute to persistent disparities in cardiovascular health, calling for culturally tailored prevention strategies, equitable access to care and greater representation of Hispanic populations in cardiovascular research.“Hispanic populations in the U.S. are incredibly diverse even within their own communities with differences in genetic ancestry, language, cultural traditions and social experiences that can significantly influence cardiovascular health,” said Johanna Contreras, M.D., M.Sc., FAHA, director of the Division of Heart Failure and medical director of the Hispanic Heart Center within the Mount Sinai Health System. “Yet Hispanic people remain underrepresented overall in the research that guides prevention and treatment strategies… Without better representation and more detailed data, we risk overlooking important differences that can help us improve care and save lives.”Hispanic Cardiovascular Health by the NumbersCardiovascular risk factors – obesity (nearly 46%), type 2 diabetes (15.5%) and high blood pressure (approximately 44%) – are prevalent among Hispanic adults and often emerge at younger ages and occur more frequently among Hispanic adults compared with white adults.According to the report, only about 1 in 5 Hispanic adults achieves ideal cardiovascular health as defined by the American Heart Association’s original Life’s Simple 7 metrics. Updated analyses using the Life’s Essential 8 framework demonstrated persistent disparities for heart and brain health, as well as suboptimal dietary quality, sleep patterns and levels of physical activity.Social and Economic Barriers MatterBiology alone does not explain cardiovascular health disparities. The environments where people live, work and age, along with social and economic challenges, impact heart health. In fact, approximately 17% of Hispanics live below the federal poverty threshold, compared with 8.2% of white adults.#placement_976606_0_i{width:100%;max-width:550px;margin:0 auto;}var rnd = window.rnd || Math.floor(Math.random()*10e6);var pid976606 = window.pid976606 || rnd;var plc976606 = window.plc976606 || 0;var abkw = window.abkw || '';var absrc = 'https://ads.empowerlocal.co/adserve/;ID=181918;size=0x0;setID=976606;type=js;sw='+screen.width+';sh='+screen.height+';spr='+window.devicePixelRatio+';kw='+abkw+';pid='+pid976606+';place='+(plc976606++)+';rnd='+rnd+';click=CLICK_MACRO_PLACEHOLDER';var _absrc = absrc.split("type=js"); absrc = _absrc[0] + 'type=js;referrer=' + encodeURIComponent(document.location.href) + _absrc[1];document.write('');“Many Hispanic adults face obstacles that extend far beyond the doctor’s office,” Contreras said. “Limited health insurance coverage, language differences, food insecurity, environmental exposures and concerns related to immigration status can make it more difficult to prevent disease, manage chronic conditions and receive timely treatment.”Contreras emphasized the cultural values and practices of Hispanic people also influence how they perceive their health and healthcare options.“Family plays a central role in many Hispanic communities and can be an extraordinary source of strength, support and resilience,” Contreras said. “At the same time, family members are often called upon to translate medical information, navigate health systems and help make healthcare decisions for loved ones. Those responsibilities can shape how health information is understood and acted upon.”An Action Plan for Improving Hispanic HealthThere are practical opportunities to achieve equitable cardiovascular health and reduce disparities through community engagement, culturally responsive care, inclusive research and policies that address the underlying drivers of health.“Reducing cardiovascular disease among Hispanic populations demands action at every level,” Contreras said, “from improving access to culturally responsive care and expanding research participation to addressing the social and environmental conditions that shape health.”By addressing both medical risk factors and the social conditions that shape health, experts believe there is an important opportunity to reduce disparities and help more people live longer, healthier lives. Learn more at Heart.org.Photo courtesy of Shutterstock