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In post-DEI era, Trump admin turns to San Antonio for more veteran-owned businesses
As governments scrap their race- and gender-conscious preferences, there's suddenly more demand for veteran contractors than supply.
Caught in 4K trying on the referee's watch 😂
Caught in 4K trying on the referee's watch 😂
When A Favicon Becomes The Entire Website
Putting hidden data in places where few expect it can be a fun hobby or even a professional career. In the case of [Tim Wehrle] it’s just the former. His most recent project in this area uses…
India’s ‘Cockroach’ movement camps out until education minister resigns
The viral 'Cockroach' movement's supporters occupy New Delhi's protest site, refusing to leave until minister resigns.
Lucas Bergvall informs Tottenham of preference to leave club this summer
Spurs rebuffed enquiries for the Sweden international in the winter window and are now aware he is seeking a fresh start.
Vermont’s Governor Scott vetoes Legislature’s attempt at healthcare reform
The bill was designed to fast-track premium savings for public school employees and people buying plans on Vermont’s Affordable Care Act marketplace.
Trump claims vandals damaged D.C. Reflecting Pool, and says it will be drained again
The president posted on Truth Social claiming vandals slashed the pool's lining and poured chemicals into the water, saying arrests have been made. He provided no evidence for his claims.
Keir Starmer Reflects on ‘Political Challenges’ as Pressure to Resign Mounts
An ally of Keir Starmer’s told the BBC on Sunday that Mr. Starmer was “taking the time to think through what the political realities are today compared to last week.”
Week in politics: continued negotiations with Iran; G7 summit; Reflecting Pool issues
There continues to be uncertainty over negotiations. At the same time, the Trump administration continues to aggravate allies.
Creators take over Cannes Lions, advertising's biggest bash
Creators are descending on Cannes Lions, the ad industry's tentpole event, reflecting their increased importance in the marketing mix.
Gordon Monson: To my father, and all the fathers out there
Tribune columnist Gordon Monson reflects on his father’s impact 25 years after his death.
Starmer reflecting on political reality as he considers future, says ally
Cabinet minister Peter Kyle says the PM is "mindful of the interests of the country" amid calls for him to quit.
Protect Every Animal From Cruelty? Not in 2026, Oregon Democrats Say
A possible referendum in Oregon on animal rights would end fishing, hunting, even pest control, just when Democrats are trying really hard not to be seen as “weirdos again.”
'House of the Dragon' Season 3 family tree: How the Targaryens, Velaryons, and Hightowers connect
Here's your refresher on Westeros' most incestuous family.
Albuquerque premiere of 'The Call' spotlights first responder mental health
Albuquerque packed the house for the public premiere of "The Call," a documentary about New Mexico firefighters and first responder mental health.
‘Happy Father's Day in Heaven, Dad’: Nick Vujicic remembers father in moving tribute
Nick Vujicic reflects on the death of his father, Boris Vujicic, in a newly released clip from the upcoming documentary No Limbs, No Limits The NickV Story, and shares how one of the most painful
Trump, Claiming Vandalism, Says Reflecting Pool Will Likely Need to Be Drained
The pool has taken on clouds of algae after a hasty renovation. A three-time Olympian was charged with destroying government property after he says he touched one of the strands of blue paint peeling off the pool’s bottom.
6-woman team celebrates opening of expanded Tazewell County business
A design shop opened an expanded storefront in Morton on Saturday, hosting an open house to showcase the new space and its six-woman team.
FSU football pioneers reunite: ‘Pete’s Boys’ reflect on legacy, brotherhood
'Pete's Boys' returned to Tallahassee to tour FSU's new facilities and reflect on the bonds of their playing era.
Dem who sued to remove Trump's name from Kennedy Center now says venue becoming 'lifeless husk' in fresh fight
The plaintiff in the case, Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty, said that by refusing to take steps to resume shows, the Kennedy Center is in violation of a previous court order.
Trump tries to blame Reflecting Poll woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation
The paint is peeling from Washington's Reflecting Pool after the renovation ordered by President Donald Trump, and he is now alleging that someone damaged it intentionally.
Trump claims vandals will force drainage of algae-plagued Reflecting Pool
(CNN) — President Donald Trump claimed Saturday, without providing evidence, that vandals damaged the algae-plagued Reflecting Pool on the National Mall and that the water will need to be drained
Trump claims multiple people arrested for vandalizing Reflecting Pool
(CNN) — Earlier this year, President Donald Trump described the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as “absolutely filthy,” vowing to clean up the iconic landmark and make it “look gorgeous, beautiful”
Algae, peeling blue material, conspiracy theories: Reflecting Pool takes national spotlight
Earlier this year, President Donald Trump described the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as “absolutely filthy,” vowing to clean up the iconic landmark and make it “look gorgeous, beautiful” so it again reflects the federal monuments around it.
Trump says Meloni 'wants to be friends again' after Italy refused to help US amid Iran war
President Donald Trump said Giorgia Meloni did not let the U.S. use Italy's landing strips in its war against Iran and rejected being friends with her.
Massive N.J. country music festival gets strangely emotional as 2 stars cry on stage |Review
Barefoot Country Music Festival was full of surprises this year
12 Women Who Redefined Hollywood and Entertainment
Few industries reflect societal transformation and the persistence of creative vision quite like Hollywood. Across generations, a trailblazing group of women have shattered expectations, defined genre...
You may actually like eating bugs
Volunteers in a new study preferred an insect protein bar over a cereal bar.
Jim Cramer Says Clover Health Was a Good Speculative Pick But Still Prefers UnitedHealth and CVS
Clover Health Investments, Corp. (NASDAQ:CLOV) was among the stocks on Jim Cramer’s radar on Mad Money, as he advised investors to care about where a stock is going, not where it has been. A caller referenced Cramer’s previous comment, calling it speculative, and noted that the company reported GAAP profitability in Q1 2026 and guided […]
World Refugee Day 2026
Marking World Refugee Day 2026 and 75 years of the Refugee Convention, WHO calls for inclusive and resilient health systems that ensure refugees access to quality, continuous and culturally sensitive care. With 117.8 million people forcibly displaced worldwide, the organization emphasizes that protecting refugee health strengthens public health, preparedness and social cohesion. WHO highlights progress in integrating refugees into national health policies while urging greater investment, stronger data systems, emergency preparedness and meaningful participation of refugees in health planning and governance.
Arts and entertainment calendar
Events coming up in the Greenville area offer music, arts, theater and family fun. Here is a sampling.
Western Pa. families declining vitamin K shots, other preventive care for newborns
A recent study in a prominent medical journal indicates that many more families are declining vitamin K shots, which prevent bleeding complications in newborns. The JAMA researchers reported that rates of refusing the preventive health measure went from 2.9% to 5.2% in eight years. A local expert says his health
Trump claims Reflecting Pool was vandalized and says law enforcement is investigating
President Donald Trump on Friday claimed the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was intentionally vandalized and said law enforcement is actively investigating, as the administration has scrambled to fix the pool’s recent deterioration just days after Trump’s nearly $15 million renovation.
Honk-Key Lock and Safe Celebrates Grand Opening of Its Grand Junction Storefront, Establishing a Full-Service Locksmith Grand Junction Residents and Businesses Can Reach for Safe, Vault, and...
Grand Junction, CO, June 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Honk-Key Lock and Safe has celebrated the grand opening of its new Grand Junction storefro...
Semi knocks down 7 power poles in Beaverton; Nearby business asked to shelter in place
Businesses in downtown Beaverton were told to shelter in place on Friday afternoon after firefighters say a semi-truck knocked down seven power poles.
EAST TEXAS POLITICS: Tyler’s next mayor and his defeated opponent reflect on election, weigh in on data center debate
Blake Holland's guests this week include Stuart Hene, John Nix, and Smith County GOP Chairman David Stein.
Jake: Washington health department warns World Cup tourists — Our weed is no joke
The Washington health department has issued formal guidance warning visiting foreigners to be careful with our weed products.
Tests of the Reflecting Pool Turn Up a Surprise
Eforts to clean the pool might be making the problem worse.
Commuity invited to Christian Science discussion on June 25
BRATTLEBORO — “How Spiritual Perception Brings Healing” is the focus of a Christian Science talk by Alexandre Fischer, CS, to be given at First Church of Christ, Scientist on Thursday,
GTA 6 and the Mystery of the Missing Ferris Wheel Reflection
Our experts chime in on the latest Grand Theft Auto trailer.
MUSC Health passes $10B budget, reflecting growth in drugs and population
Medical University of South Carolina and its hospitals and physicians will have a budget that tops $10 billion next fiscal year, driven by the cost of drugs and a growing population in the state.
Philips Hue debuts table & floor lamps with TV sync, new candle bulb
Philips Hue is expanding on its smart lighting catalog even further with new table and floor lamps, as well as...
Sphere Entertainment (SPHR) Stock Could Be 2% Undervalued After Immersive Content Momentum
Sphere Entertainment (SPHR) is back in focus after highlighting strong momentum in its immersive shows, including The Wizard of Oz at Sphere, and announcing a new Rocky Horror Picture Show experience, along with plans for additional global venues. See our latest analysis for Sphere Entertainment. That momentum is clearly reflected in Sphere Entertainment’s recent trading, with a 1-month share price return of 16.26% and a year to date share price return of 66.84%. The 1-year total shareholder...
Prime Day 2026: Best Early Apple Device and Accessory Deals Now Live
Amazon is soon to be back with its annual summertime Prime Day event, lasting for four days from June 23-26, one of the longest Prime Day events yet. As it does every year, Prime Day offers shoppers a huge selection of deals across Amazon's storefront, and there are already many deals you can get on sale ahead of the event. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
Hartford HealthCare highlights commitment to advancing health equity
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — As the nation observes Juneteenth, health care organizations are reflecting on the holiday’s enduring lessons of equity, access, and opportunity. Hartford Healt…
Lakers Could Lose Austin Reaves In Free Agency If They're Not Careful
Reaves has earned his payday.
“Clunky” Epic Games Launcher is getting a “Ground-up rebuild” that promises to be at least 5x faster
The company has confirmed that a major overhaul of the Epic Games Store with several improvements and changes is currently in development.
Large fire tears through multiple businesses on Chicago's West Side
Thick smoke could be seen for miles as firefighters battled a large building fire on Chicago's West Side Friday morning.
Earthshine: imaging the Moon for science
This image is part of a series captured by ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot for the European Earthshine experiment, which investigates whether we can measure how much sunlight Earth reflects by using the Moon as a natural projection screen.
Tech Investor Prosus’ Revenue Rises on Growth Across Businesses, Tencent
Core headline earnings are expected to increase between 19% to 28% reflecting strong revenue growth and profitability across its businesses, most notably Tencent.
Tech Investor Prosus’ Revenue Rises on Growth Across Businesses, Tencent
Core headline earnings are expected to increase between 19% to 28% reflecting strong revenue growth and profitability across its businesses, most notably Tencent.
Tired with Iran, Trump refocuses on Ukraine
Jenna Amatulli speaks to the Guardian’s Andrew Roth about the chances this peace deal will succeed, and why Trump is turning his attention back to Ukraine
Zimbabwe bill to scrap presidential elections sparks backlash
Supporters call the bill a governance reform, while opponents see a turning point for Zimbabwe's political future.
AI session examines the disconnect between health systems and their tech partners
Magna GenAI Consulting CEO Dr. Sahar Hashmi talks about the behind-the-scenes tension when a new vendor is brought on.
Sony drops “PC”, adds “AI” to official PlayStation business strategy summary
Sony had made some conspicuous edits and updates to its description of PlayStation’s “business environment and strategy,” in a new annual report filed to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission today. These changes are part of a 379-word overview of Sony’s strategy for its Game & Network Services (G&NS) division, which is another name for PlayStation. The chunk about PlayStation strategy is part of a voluminous financial report filed by Sony each June. This year’s is 229 pages long. Differences to any part of the filing—word changes made from year to year, as Sony provides a breakdown of its business for investors—can be illuminating. For example: A line from 2025 about how the PlayStation team “aims to achieve sustainable and profitable business growth” has been changed in the 2026 version to “aims to achieve sustainable business growth.” Notice which word they cut? That’s a pretty clear tell about how Sony expects its profit margins to be squeezed this year, due to rising chip costs for its hardware, among other things. A line from 2025 that stated “Sony plans to continue its efforts to deploy its first-party titles to multiple platforms such as PC” had been cut from the 2026 version. That appears to be Sony’s admission by omission that it has backed off releasing its biggest games on PC. Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier reported in March and again in May that Sony’s big single-player marquee games are no longer planned for time-delayed release on PC.1 A whole new chunk has also been added about how “Sony is utilizing AI to unleash the creativity of studios and further enhance the PlayStation experience.” A full breakdown of the changes made from the 2025 version to the 2026 version is below. I’ve redlined them for you…
Why China Insists on the “Existing International Order”: The Politics of UN Centrality and Reform
In May 2026, China held the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi flew […]
New documentary spotlights child safety, mental health reforms after Oklahoma tragedy
Usyk ref had seen enough to end fight before bell
The referee at the centre of the controversial fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Rico Verhoeven tells a boxing commission he had seen enough to stop the bout in the 11th round before the bell sounded.
Social Security Reform: The Math Is Easy. The Politics Are Hard. And This Is the Wrong Way to Look at It.
Social Security should be neither a math nor a political problem At a recent AEI event on the 2026 Social Security Trustees Report, Social Security’s Chief Actuary Karen Glenn (pithily, credit where due) summed up the conventional...
AI and Telemedicine Can Fill Healthcare Gaps, Execs Say – But Only If Washington Helps
Major health system leaders say investments in virtual care, ambient AI medical scribes, automated referrals and other new tech tools could ease a critical workforce shortage that struggles to keep up with widespread chronic disease and medical deserts. But they still need regulators to revamp ...
Reframing exercise: How simple physical activity boosts health | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
For many people, consistent exercise feels daunting — an all-or-nothing proposition in which setbacks signal failure and advice overwhelms. This discussion reframes physical activity as something accessible and sustainable by challenging common myths about exercise.
Ryan Castagna’s Journey Began With a Scholarship
Castagna reflects on his first year in the paper science and engineering program and the impact of the Kent Hudson Scholarship on his education.
Seth Meyers reminds Donald Trump that the Reflecting Pool is not, in fact, a swimming pool: 'This isn't your chintzy golf club'
The 'Late Night With Seth Meyers' host reminded Donald Trump on Wednesday night that the Reflecting Pool is not a swimming pool. Meyers' quip comes amid costly renovations made to the water feature and comments the president made likening it to a pool at one of his clubs.
Business Briefs: June 19, 2026
Greenfield Business Association commissions pollinator mural to enliven vacant storefront GREENFIELD — Just in time for May’s 16th Annual Greenfield Bee Fest, the Greenfield Business Association partnered with the owner of 220 Main St. to transform a vacant storefront into a vibrant, pollinator-themed mural that injects fresh color and energy into downtown. Part of a […]
Grand Theft Auto VI Preorders to Begin June 25
Take-Two Interactive Software said preorders for its hotly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI begin June 25 on digital storefronts and at select retailers.
Adobe adds its AI assistant to Premiere, Illustrator and InDesign
Adobe is updating its Firefly AI assistant with new chops, and adding it to Premiere, Illustrator, InDesign and Frame.io.
How sports betting became Colorado’s ticket to funding $140 million in water conservation projects
Supporters say the gambling money is a godsend. Critics say legalized sports betting has come at a cost — fueling an addiction crisis that Colorado is unprepared for.
What 2026 Voters Are Saying To Business Leaders
Most Americans still fall somewhere closer to the middle, and the 2026 election will reflect that enduring electorate.
New Kentucky athletics director J Batt's focus on dollars make sense
Kentucky's J Batt hire reflects a trend in college sports where athletics directors function like CEOs and wins are measured by financial success.
Ask the expert: Indigenous science fiction explained
MSU expert Blaire Morseau explains how Indigenous science fiction and speculative storytelling reflect culture, history and imagined futures.
Air Conditioning Is Becoming More Vital to Oregon’s Public Health and Safety
Air conditioning, especially in the Willamette Valley, has become a public health necessity rather than a consumer preference, says Vivek Shandas.
Georgia Republicans choose Collins for Senate and Jackson for governor, a mixed result for Trump
Georgia Republicans delivered a split decision for Donald Trump in Tuesday runoffs, opting for the president’s preferred U.S. Senate candidate but rejecting his choice for governor in favor of a billionaire first-time candidate who spent freely from his personal fortune to win the nomination.
Experts on history, politics reflect on U.S. 250th birthday milestone
As our nation’s celebration of its 250th birthday approaches, experts in history and political science at Virginia Tech can provide perspectives on how far the United States of America has advanced since its founding and the issues that will influence where it goes next.
Scott vetoes Legislature’s latest attempt at healthcare reform
The governor said he wants savings to be shared equally among insurance buyers, not only the two groups targeted by the bill. Others say the savings just aren’t there.
Aetna Developing Preferred Network for Autism Therapy Providers
CVS Health’s (NYSE: CVS) payer arm, Aetna, plans to create a preferred autism therapy provider network that may make a debut in 2026. Aetna first
Michigan Lawmakers Take Up Bill To Cap Marijuana Business Licenses As Industry Reels From Tax Increase
“We are doing our best to create the right regulatory scheme to be able to adequately enforce the market.” By Ben Solis, Michigan Advance The Michigan Senate is refocusing its marijuana industry license cap legislation to include new barriers to obtaining a license for growers, processors or dispensary operators with outstanding industry-related tax debt—a move […]
Remembering the Emanuel 9 victims after a season of gun politics
In his latest commentary, Paul Hyde reflects on the 11th anniversary of the Mother Emanuel massacre, campaign ads, and the Charleston loophole.
Rep. Kevin Hern wins Oklahoma GOP nomination for U.S. Senate, governor's race heads to runoff
The primary had Republicans picking their preferred successor to outgoing Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt and a nominee for the Senate seat once held by Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
Memories of Catamount sports glory days lead to $100K gift to WCU ath
Memories of attending Western Carolina University during the glory days of Catamount sports inspired a retired furniture corporation executive and his wife, already longtime supporters of the institut
Opinion | Money and Politics: Tom Steyer and Others Reflect on His Campaign
Tom Steyer and other readers respond to Michelle Cottle’s essay about his campaign for governor of California. Also: A missed opportunity on the 250th anniversary.
Ken Ziffren on 50 Years of UCLA Entertainment Law Symposiums
Ken Ziffren, an elder statesman of entertainment law and Ziffren Brittenham partner, reflects on 50 years of dealmaking as UCLA.
Jimmy Kimmel skewers Trump over Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool algae
Jimmy Kimmel has been reflecting on President Donald Trump's reflecting pool renovation, and he's ready to wade into the waters.
Trump admin uses hydrogen peroxide, tiny bubbles against Reflecting Pool algae
Algae has plagued the site for more than 100 years, but Trump set his sights on addressing it as part of his aggressive push to beautify Washington
Mitch Marner Opens Up On Mental Health Struggles, Reflects On 'Dark Times' During Maple Leafs Years
Mitch Marner Opens Up On Mental Health Struggles, Reflects On 'Dark Times' During Maple Leafs Years
Science, Public Health, and the Politics of Truth
Presented as part of the McCloskey Speaker Series.Peter Hotez, M.D., Ph.D., professor and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, joins the Aspen Institute for a keynote lecture on the intersection of science, medicine, and public trust. A leading authority on vaccines and neglected tropical diseases, Hotez reflects on the challenges facing public health today, the growing politicization of science, and what it will take to rebuild trust in scientific institutions in the years ahead.Paepcke Auditorium, doors at 5:00 pmRegistrationThis event is free and open to the public, but registration is required, and capacity is established on a first-come, first-served basis. Once an event is at capacity, we will have an in-person waitlist at the door.Public registration is now open for summer 2026. Please click here to register.ParkingParking is very limited. Please carpool, walk, bike, or ride RFTA.Book signing will immediately follow the event. To learn more about his book or to order a copy, please click here.
Science, Public Health, and the Politics of Truth
Presented as part of the McCloskey Speaker Series.Peter Hotez, M.D., Ph.D., professor and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, joins the Aspen Institute for a keynote lecture on the intersection of science, medicine, and public trust. A leading authority on vaccines and neglected tropical diseases, Hotez reflects on the challenges facing public health today, the growing politicization of science, and what it will take to rebuild trust in scientific institutions in the years ahead.Paepcke Auditorium, doors at 5:00 pmRegistrationThis event is free and open to the public, but registration is required, and capacity is established on a first-come, first-served basis. Once an event is at capacity, we will have an in-person waitlist at the door.Public registration is now open for summer 2026. Please click here to register.ParkingParking is very limited. Please carpool, walk, bike, or ride RFTA.Book signing will immediately follow the event. To learn more about his book or to order a copy, please click here.
Idaho Office for Refugees celebrates World Refugee Day here in Boise
Celebrated each year on June 20 is World Refugee Day, an international observance to honor the courage and resilience of people forced to flee their home countries to escape persecution
Voice, dignity, agency: four ways Africa’s Gen Z are rewriting politics
Our screens are littered with contradictory messages about how Africa's Gen-Z are engaging with politics on the continent, but four broad patterns are becoming visible: democratic reformers, sovereignty rebels, livelihood pragmatists and digital cosmopolitans.
Patriots survey results: Fans prefer to keep Kayshon Boutte
Patriots fans share their thoughts on Kayshon Boutte’s future.
Workers seen adding hydrogen peroxide to treat algae-plagued Reflecting Pool
Latvia pilots citizen engagement in research grant evaluations
Latvia has introduced an element of citizen engagement to the evaluation of nationally funded research grants. The aim is to both create more connections between science and society, and to improve the quality of its evaluations. The move comes as research funders across Europe are experimenting with ways to improve evaluation processes in the face of a sharpened focus on science’s impact on society. Evaluators of grant applications submitted to Latvia’s Fundamental and Applied Research Programme (FLPP), the country’s main research funder, will this year have the option of consulting citizen feedback on challenges the public thinks science should focus on to inform their decisions. “In recent years, both public discussions and policy-level debates in Latvia have highlighted the importance of demonstrating how publicly funded research contributes to society, the economy and the resolution of real-world challenges,” said a source at the Latvian Council of Science (LCS), which manages the FLPP. “At the same time, research institutions themselves expressed interest in improving the project evaluation framework while continuing to ensure that funding is awarded to the highest-quality projects,” the source added. The citizen input comes from a survey that was conducted between 25 February and 16 March 2025, to which 1,737 people responded. It gathered information on what the public views as problem areas for Latvia, and the role of science and technology in providing solutions to these problems. A summary of these responses has been included as an annex to the FLPP 2026 call for proposals that evaluators can refer to, purely in an advisory manner, when judging proposals. Results from the survey show that the main problem areas identified by the public were in healthcare and public health, followed by the development of new treatment methods and medicines, and then digital technology, data security and cyber security. At the bottom of the list was research aimed at acquiring new knowledge about the universe, matter and the laws of nature. Further analysis looked at the public view of the possible role of science in solving these problems. The survey charted 4,167 individual responses based on open-ended questions that were derived from the participants’ answers. The analysis again found that medical and health sciences topped the scoring, with 788 responses referring to the field. Humanities and the arts were bottom of the list, with 625. Digging further into the details, the survey suggests citizens are aware of and concerned about a number of research areas. This includes technologies and innovation to improve the environment or reduce pollution, the development of modern military technologies and cybersecurity tools, and the development and application of artificial intelligence, among others. “We hope this initiative will help strengthen public trust in science and create a more meaningful dialogue between researchers and society,” the LCS source said, adding that it offers benefits to researchers, evaluators and to the general public. More space for citizen engagement in evaluationsThere is a gradual but increasing use of citizen engagement in research evaluation processes around Europe, especially in healthcare, but it remains relatively rare, said Henry Sauermann, a professor at the European School of Management and Technology in Berlin and an expert in citizen science.“Given that we are at a point where citizen involvement is extremely limited, there is presumably space for more, but it's not that we should do it just because we want to do it,” he told Science|Business. He said some research lends itself better to having citizen input, and this usually tends to be on the applied end of the science spectrum where the public can offer useful feedback based on their experiences. He added that advising scientists on certain topics to study is also a useful approach, in the way that Latvia is doing. “The public does fund a lot of science, there's a lot of tax money going into this. We of course do want to preserve academic freedom, but it's also not unreasonable to incorporate more feedback or input from citizens where possible,” he said. Related articlesCitizen science: where, when, and how to let the public contribute to researchHow can Europe cope with a flood of AI-assisted research grant proposals?Data Corner: Horizon Europe’s AI, digital and data call success rate is 5.2%There are several ways of involving citizens in science funding. The most minimal way is having a few representatives on a panel, such as members of a patient group or union. The most direct way is crowdsourcing funding for specific projects. There is an increasing number of online platforms that allow the public to chip in to support scientific proposals.Sauermann studied this in a recent paper and found that it can have its uses, but it still is not clear if there are benefits to it. There are various assumptions linked to citizen engagement, for example that it increases public trust in science, or that it provides a representative view of what the public thinks about science. These are not necessarily true, Sauermann found. People who participate in engagement activities tend to already be very trusting of science, and, on the whole, it is generally the well-off and well educated who contribute, giving a narrow view of public opinion. On whether citizen input can help manage the increasing number of proposals that are being submitted due to assistance from AI, Sauermann is more sceptical. “The obvious answer to the flood of AI-written proposals is AI-driven evaluation,” he said, adding that it doesn’t mean citizen engagement shouldn’t be a part of evaluations in a well thought-out manner. Southern Denmark’s successful approachOne successful example of citizen engagement in science evaluations was implemented in southern Denmark. Between 2019 and 2025, citizens in the region were invited to vote to fund one of five pre-selected projects in the field of healthcare. The project, called A Healthier Southern Denmark, was a collaboration between regional authorities, the University of Southern Denmark, and two media partners. Over the seven years, there were 75,000 votes and significant public engagement online and on social media. “It was a bit of a wild project, we’d never done something like that before and we were a bit nervous about what would be said in the media about it. But actually, people were very positive,” said Anne Kathrine Overgaard, one of the main organisers of the project from the University of Southern Denmark. The university and its researchers have learned a lot from the experience, particularly about engaging with society and shaping their research to match real-world needs. This is important with Europe’s increasing focus on competitiveness and bringing innovations to market faster, Overgaard said. She hopes to see more citizen engagement in evaluation processes and in science more broadly. “For many years, citizen engagement has been a bit of an add-on to proposals, just to check a box. But I think things are changing,” she said. It’s less about citizens just gathering data and more “about the dialogue between the public and the scientists,” she said. The initiative ended last year as the team wanted to regroup to find fresh momentum. The development of AI and AI-written proposals has made Overgaard reflect on how the project could be reworked to help evaluators. She hopes to bring it back in the future. “It could be a good idea to try this initiative again in a slightly re-worked format,” she said.