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Trump did what today?

8/20/2026

Former Fauci adviser Dr. David Morens pleads guilty to concealing COVID-related records

  • Dr. David Morens, a former adviser to Dr. Fauci, pleaded guilty to hiding COVID research records.
  • He used personal emails to conceal communications, which led to a federal conspiracy charge.
  • Morens apologized for his actions and could face prison time and a hefty fine.
  • This case raises concerns about attacks on scientists and pressures in the field.
  • While Fauci was not directly involved, he faces scrutiny for his pandemic response.

The U.S. debt tops a record-shattering $40 trillion. Yes, with a T

  • The U.S. national debt has exceeded $40 trillion, marking a new record.
  • Government spending is increasing rapidly, leading to a widening deficit.
  • Experts say the fiscal path is unsustainable, predicting future economic issues.
  • Interest on the debt has become one of the government's biggest expenses.
  • Calls for legislative action to manage this growing debt have not gained traction.

Experts raise alarms over Census Bureau report Trump is touting on noncitizen voting

  • A Census Bureau report, linked to a Trump-affiliated group, claims 24,000 noncitizens voted illegally in 2020.
  • Experts criticize the report's methods, labeling the findings dubious.
  • The report comes amid ongoing voter fraud claims without substantial evidence.
  • Many believe the claims are an attempt to undermine confidence in the voting process.
  • The report has drawn skepticism from established election researchers.

Whistleblower Arturo Béjar leads testimony in landmark trial against Meta

  • Former Meta employee Arturo Béjar testified about safety concerns at the company.
  • He claims the company's culture prioritized user numbers over user safety.
  • Béjar's testimony is part of a lawsuit against Meta regarding child safety violations.
  • Meta denies the allegations, arguing they take teen safety seriously.
  • The trial could impact how social media companies are held accountable for user safety.

15 states have laws that allow corporal punishment in schools. Here's where, and why

  • Fifteen U.S. states still allow corporal punishment in schools, often using paddling as discipline.
  • Many parents find themselves torn between suspension and physical punishment for their kids.
  • Psychologists warn that corporal punishment can harm children long-term.
  • Critics argue it's outdated and promotes violence as a solution to conflict.
  • The practice faces growing opposition, with many advocating for non-violent disciplinary methods.

California passes toughest wildfire rules in the U.S. for home landscaping

  • California has enacted strict landscaping rules to protect homes from wildfires.
  • Homeowners must limit types of plants around their properties to reduce fire risk.
  • The regulations come after years of devastating wildfires driven by climate change.
  • There was pushback from communities concerned about losing greenery.
  • The new rules reflect the urgent need for fire prevention measures in high-risk areas.

Trump administration moves to open untouched national forests to logging

  • The Trump administration seeks to roll back the 'roadless rule' to allow logging in national forests.
  • Critics argue this could harm environmental protections and exacerbate wildfire risks.
  • Supporters say it will help manage forests and boost economic activity.
  • The rule change comes amid ongoing debates about land use and conservation.
  • Public comments on the proposed changes will be accepted until later this year.

Feeling restless? Level up your life by starting a side quest

  • Side quests, activities done for fun without pressure, can enhance daily life.
  • Engaging in play helps relieve stress and encourages creativity.
  • People are encouraged to rediscover what they enjoyed as kids for new side quests.
  • Taking risks and trying new activities can lead to fulfillment and joy.
  • Establishing achievable, specific, and time-bound side quests can enhance personal growth.

In new filings, Kennedy Center says it won't try to put Trump's name on facade until Sept. 8

  • The Kennedy Center plans to restore Trump's name on the building after court approval.
  • Concerns have been raised about the legality of this move and its implications.
  • The Center argues that ongoing construction justifies a tarp covering the facade.
  • The status of the National Symphony Orchestra is also in flux amid controversy.
  • Disputes over the name's restoration reflect broader political tensions affecting the Center.

Elbridge who? How the name of a forgotten founder lives on in the word 'gerrymander'

  • Elbridge Gerry, a lesser-known Founding Father, is the namesake for 'gerrymander'.
  • The word describes manipulating electoral boundaries to benefit a party.
  • Gerry's name became associated with this practice after a controversial redistricting in the 1800s.
  • Despite his historical significance, many know little about Gerry or his contributions.
  • His legacy endures through the political practice that continues to influence elections today.

FCC's lone Democrat says Disney 'has found its courage' in lawsuit against agency

  • Disney is suing the FCC, claiming retaliation for its news coverage.
  • FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez supports the lawsuit, emphasizing free speech rights.
  • The FCC's chair argues the agency is maintaining public interest standards.
  • Gomez calls for clearer definitions regarding what constitutes public interest.
  • The case highlights concerns about governmental control over media and free expression.

Why more than 400,000 kids are on waitlists for federal childcare assistance

  • Over 400,000 children are on waitlists for federal childcare assistance in the U.S.
  • Funding shortfalls have caused these waitlists to grow dramatically.
  • Most families applying need help but face rising childcare costs.
  • Several states currently have waitlists or are not accepting new applications.
  • Experts argue more funding and reforms are necessary to support low-income families.

Trump says U.S. and Canada reached deal to delay 50% U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports

  • Trump delayed new tariffs on Canadian imports before they took effect.
  • The timing of the deal aims to ease tensions between the U.S. and Canada.
  • Both countries are looking for a resolution to maintain trade relations.
  • The tariffs would affect a wide range of Canadian goods, impacting the economy.
  • Continued negotiations reflect the ongoing complexities of international trade.

A real-world study of Oregon's nonmedical psilocybin program shows promise

  • Oregon's psilocybin program shows positive results for participants.
  • Most users report beneficial experiences from taking the drug under supervision.
  • The study suggests low rates of adverse effects, indicating overall safety.
  • Questions remain about the implications of widespread psilocybin use.
  • The findings could influence future research on psychedelics in therapy.

Greetings from Trouville-sur-Mer, a beach town little changed since Monet painted it

  • Trouville-sur-Mer offers a charming escape with its beautiful beaches.
  • The town retains its 19th-century character, reminiscent of Impressionist art.
  • Its popularity among Parisians highlights its appeal as a nearby getaway.
  • Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and scenic coastal views.
  • The town's history is reflected in its landscape, unchanged over the years.

This high-speed star is whipping around the black hole in the middle of our galaxy

  • A star moving incredibly fast has been discovered orbiting our galaxy's central black hole.
  • This finding can help scientists study the effects of gravity near a black hole.
  • The star's orbit provides insight into the behaviors of celestial bodies in extreme environments.
  • Researchers used advanced techniques to observe this phenomenon in infrared light.
  • Understanding black holes is crucial for learning more about the universe.

How India's blocking of a film exposing real-life police abuses backfired

  • A film about police abuses in India, blocked by the government, sparked community screenings.
  • Residents rallied to watch the film despite its censorship, showing defiance against authority.
  • The story centers around an activist who uncovered human rights violations by police.
  • The film addresses unresolved issues regarding Sikh rights and government actions.
  • This situation reflects broader tensions within Indian politics and society.

Why Aitana's 'Superestrella' is the surprise Latin hit song of the summer

  • Aitana's song 'Superestrella' has unexpectedly become a summer hit across Latin America.
  • The catchy tune has resonated with listeners, showcasing the artist's broad appeal.
  • Despite its age, the song's joyful vibe allowed it to connect with a wider audience.
  • Cultural moments, like its feature during Spain's World Cup celebrations, boosted its popularity.
  • The song reflects a need for escapism in a challenging year for many in Latin America.

Congo's Ebola outbreak reaches 5,000 cases as it outpaces response efforts

  • The Ebola outbreak in Congo has reached 5,000 cases, spreading rapidly.
  • Health workers face significant challenges, including security threats and lack of resources.
  • The current outbreak is more severe than previous ones, with high fatality rates.
  • Misinformation and community mistrust hinder the response efforts.
  • Experts warn that immediate attention and support are critical to control the outbreak.