The Antenna

Younger consumers are stressed — but resilient

Consumers have grown increasingly worried about inflation, and many are delaying major purchases, according to J.D. Power. That's especially true for people under 40. In a survey, J.D. Power found that only about a third in that age group believe they can cover everyday expenses. We'll dig in. But first, Spotify has long invested in podcasts and audiobooks. Now, it wants you to listen to magazine articles on the platform, too.

Pope Warns of AI Apocalypse

Watch now | Tommy and Ben dig into a week of an “almost” deal, a sweeping AI warning, and a terrifying Ebola outbreak...

💸 Trump’s Slush Fund Is an Even Bigger Disaster for Republicans Than They Feared

Administration insiders panic over private data that shows the public souring fast on the sheer corruption of Trump's second term, while in Texas, an incumbent GOP senator takes a MAGA mauling.

Philadelphia just announced 435 more EV charging ports

Philadelphia is expanding its public EV charging network again, adding around 435 new DC fast-charging and Level 2 charging ports across the city.

more…

Amid AI backlash, brands are emphasizing the human side of marketing

Public backlash to content generated by artificial intelligence has pushed brands to reconsider how AI is used in their marketing.

Some companies are swerving away from AI and finding ways to prove that their advertisements were made by humans.

One of those humans is Ash Xu, a commercial director and online content creator. Brands hire her to make a commercial plus a behind-the-scenes video about how the ad was made.

Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Xu to learn more.

Tesla (TSLA) and SpaceX merger would be Musk’s 4th billion-dollar self-deal

Elon Musk is reportedly floating the idea of merging Tesla (TSLA) and SpaceX, just weeks before SpaceX’s massive IPO on the Nasdaq. If it happens, this would literally be the fourth time Musk has orchestrated a billion-dollar transaction between companies he controls.

No one in corporate America is doing this at the scale Musk is. Between SolarCity, Twitter/X, and xAI, Musk has built a playbook for self-dealing that is unprecedented — and now he’s gearing up for the biggest one yet.

more…

The Miller Doctrine

Stephen Miller is in large part dictating U.S. foreign policy, with a mindset of unilateral violence on a maximum scale.

The post The Miller Doctrine appeared first on The American Prospect.

Trump’s Slush Fund Could End Up Costing Recipients Billions

Suing slush fund recipients under the False Claims Act could claw back their payments, plus three times as much in damages.

The post Trump’s Slush Fund Could End Up Costing Recipients Billions appeared first on The American Prospect.

MAGA Hogs at the Government Trough

For the Trumpiest federal agencies, it’s an all-you-can-eat buffet.

The post MAGA Hogs at the Government Trough appeared first on The American Prospect.

Rad Power Bikes to offer safer replacement e-bike batteries at steep discount

It looks like Rad Power Bikes owners may soon have a more affordable path to upgrading to the company’s newer Safe Shield battery technology.

In an email just sent out today, Rad Life Mobility announced plans for a program that would allow eligible customers to receive up to 50% off replacement Safe Shield batteries for older Rad e-bikes.

more…

At Lincoln’s Illinois home, guides reveal the man behind the icon

As Route 66 turns 100, Springfield, Illinois, closely tied to Abraham Lincoln, expects more travelers seeking to learn more about the iconic president.

Paxton trounces Cornyn in Texas, a sign of Trump’s hold on GOP

Texas’ polarizing attorney general easily bested the veteran senator, underscoring President Donald Trump’s sway with GOP voters. November’s general election, against Democrat James Talarico, may be a tighter race.

REALLY Quick Charge: The state of clean trucking with Joe Annotti

On this really quick episode of Quick Charge, we spend time with TRC Senior Director and ACT Expo co-founder Joe Annotti to talk about the state of clean trucking in 2026, incentive programs, and ever so briefly talk about why Autocar was my favorite OEM at this year’s show.

more…

New electric Ferrari proves the Apple Car would have been really, really nice

On today’s prancing episode of Quick Charge, the prancing horse people at Ferrari have released a world of firsts: the first-ever electric Ferrari, the brand’s first 5 passenger sedan, AND the first car designed by legendary Apple designer Jony Ive.

more…

How the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s Explains Trump’s Failures Today

In this deep dive, Mehdi breaks down the U.S.’s failure to learn lessons from its support for Saddam Hussein’s brutal war against Tehran, and how the Iranians held out for eight long years.

Vermont’s Community Broadband Model, Starlink, and the Future of Search – Episode 10 of Unbuffered

What Vermont is getting right — and why Google’s AI search changes feel different

CMS seeks 1,200 new hires as agency ramps up AI-driven fraud prevention

CMS agency is recruiting engineers, cybersecurity specialists and data scientists while expanding its use of AI tools to identify fraudulent payments.

Why gas costs more in California than Texas

As President Trump’s war in the Middle East continues, Americans continue to face higher fuel prices. But some have it worse than others. In this episode, we compare the situation at the pump in Texas, heart of the U.S. oil industry, and California, where air quality regulations make gas pricier. Plus: Wholesale clubs attract higher-income shoppers, fast fashion giant Shien acquires eco-conscious Everlane, and a new Chicago Fed report reveals strong manufacturers and shaky consumers.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

BYD’s new Yuan Plus EV adds more range and fast charging for $18,000 [Video]

BYD launched the third-generation Yuan Plus, sold overseas as the Atto 3, with its new Flash Charging and nearly 400 miles of driving range. The upgraded electric SUV is on sale now, starting at less than $18,000.

more…

Trump administration pushes governmentwide NDA for federal employees

Violations of the NDA could result in disciplinary action, including terminations or civil and criminal penalties for federal employees, OPM said.

Tesla ‘Robotaxi’ fleet is actually shrinking, not growing, new data shows

Less than a month after we reported that Tesla’s unsupervised “Robotaxi” fleet was finally showing some signs of growth, new data from the Robotaxi Tracker tells a different story. The fleet is actually shrinking.

The number of active unsupervised Tesla “Robotaxis” has dropped to just 20 vehicles — down from the 25 cumulative vehicles we reported in late April — and the total active fleet across all Tesla ride-hailing operations has collapsed to just 34 vehicles.

more…

What happens when everyone in government uses AI the same way?

A government that thinks alike, at scale, is a government less equipped to handle the problems that don't fit the model.

Why Project Glasswing demands a shift to containment

We are entering an era where vulnerabilities are discovered at machine scale, far outstripping the human capacity to fix them.

What A Day: ‘Great Deal’ or No Deal

Just give Trump’s team “a few more days” to make peace with Iran.

Existing ethics laws weren’t written with prediction markets in mind

"Congress should prioritize the well-being of the public rather than seeking to gain a profit from these prediction markets," said Janice Luong.

In Massachusetts Today, Uber and Lyft Drivers Went Union

Under a recently enacted state law, independent contractors can bargain collectively—and now, they will.

The post In Massachusetts Today, Uber and Lyft Drivers Went Union appeared first on The American Prospect.

This moment is testing how durable the IG system really is

"I think there is a lower sense of morale, at least anecdotally, that's what I hear," said Jay Lerner.

Renewables’ installed capacity to beat natural gas by 2027 – EIA data

If small-scale solar is included, newly released US Energy Information Administration (EIA) data reviewed by the SUN DAY Campaign indicates that renewables are on track to surpass natural gas in total electrical generating capacity by early 2027.

more…

BMW is saying goodbye to this popular gas sports car, but a new performance EV will step in

The 2027 G80 BMW M3 will be the final model year for the iconic gas-powered sports car, but a performance EV is coming soon that promises to pack even more performance.

more…

Residential school survivors testify in front of international tribunal

A panel of residential school survivors provided witness testimony on Tuesday to the Permanent Peoples Tribunal, an international independent court of opinion investigating Canada's responsibility for the residential school system and the human rights violations associated with it.

A week that didn’t end the way Congress planned

"On bigger AI questions and regulation, there do seem to be some divisions there. We're waiting for more bills," said Loren Duggan.

Bluetti’s 128Wh Elite 10 Mini power station at $113 low, Segway E3 Pro e-scooter $550, Anker SOLIX EverFrost 2 coolers from $650, more

Memorial Day may have passed, but the seasonal and holiday savings aren’t slowing down, with a fresh batch of Green Deals for you today, as well as our updated all-in-one Memorial Day Green Deals hub that we will maintain for a few more days. Leading today’s edition is the 128Wh Bluetti Elite 10 Mini Portable Power Station at its $113 low, followed by Segway’s E3 Pro Electric Scooter down at $550. We also have Anker’s 40L and 58L SOLIX EverFrost 2 Portable Cordless Electric Coolers and bundles starting from $650, the popular Greenworks Pro 3,000 PSI Electric Pressure Washer for $370, and more. And don’t forget about our hangover Green Deals collected together at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s exclusive (and ongoing) Bluetti Memorial Day Sale lineup with plenty of lows, the EcoFlow 48-hour flash sale on 716Wh to 12.2kWh power stations that ends tonight, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

How States Can Lower Electricity Bills

Learn about actions state utility regulators and legislators can take to lower electric bills for consumers.

Amid concerns US-Iran deal could falter, Mideast powers push it forward

Mixed signals surround the U.S.-Iran negotiations, but a bloc of Mideast middle powers is assertively pushing for a ceasefire.

This Bipartisan Crypto Bill Could Make Trump Family ‘Vanderbilt-Level Rich’

The U.S. Congress is working on a dangerous gift for Trump and the crypto billionaires buying elections.

Volvo EV drivers in Europe gain an easier way into Tesla’s Supercharger network

Volvo EV drivers will gain access to over 20,000 Tesla Supercharger stations across 29 European countries, starting later this year. But that’s not even the best part of it.

more…

Voices from Havana: Cubans offer their thoughts about the future of the island

The Trump administration is looking to impose big changes on Cuba. What’s at stake for the people who live there?

What do sanctions accomplish? Maybe not what you think.

As countries like Russia and Iran keep pursuing their agendas despite being hit by heavy Western sanctions, many wonder: Are sanctions effective?

Fast-fashion brand Shein accused of stealing designs from Winnipeg-based Indigenous company

Indigenous Nations Apparel Company, or INAC, a Winnipeg-based Indigenous clothing company, is accusing fast-fashion brand Shein of stealing dozens of its designs.

Lawmakers look to take some of the heat in future shutdowns

The legislation was first introduced in 2019 and a companion bill has been introduced in the House.

America is panicking about e-bikes while ignoring the real problem

If you spend enough time reading local news headlines these days, you’d be forgiven for thinking electric bicycles are one of the greatest threats facing American streets. Teenagers on fat-tire e-bikes, viral videos of wheelies, stories about injuries complete with ER doctor interviews… the same themes are playing on repeat.

more…

Freeing Cuba without revenge

Even as the U.S. lines up retaliation against the regime, many former political prisoners find loving one’s adversaries can undercut the regime and promises better justice and freedom.

Disillusioned and doomspending

Heard of "doomspending"? It refers to a feeling of hopelessness about your financial future and spending more freely now than you maybe should. From Marketplace's "This Is Uncomfortable," we dig into the self-defeating financial decisions we sometimes make — from splurging to regain a sense of control to not saving for retirement because it's hard to envision the future — and how to rethink those impulses. But first: new strikes in Iran but the same old market uncertainty.

The Mechanic vs. the Billionaire with Dan Osborn

What is sacrificed when running for a U.S. Senate seat?

The post The Mechanic vs. the Billionaire with Dan Osborn appeared first on The American Prospect.

BYD built this low-cost PHEV specifically for global markets — And it gets +1,000 km range

The Dolphin G will go on sale soon as BYD’s first car developed specifically for global markets. BYD said its “game-changing” plug-in hybrid system will offer over 1,000 km (621 miles) of combined range at an affordable price.

more…

Make it 5 for MMF president David Chartrand, running uncontested again

The longtime president of the Manitoba Métis Federation has been acclaimed in the organization's upcoming general election.

Hybrid by design: Engineering the new model for federal AI delivery

Booz Allen and Future Tech leaders share how using hybrid design, edge AI and GPUs can accelerate secure federal AI deployment.

Moosomin First Nation boy crafts his own powwow regalia out of cardboard

Ryland Louis from Moosomin First Nation surprised his mom by making a head roach (usually made from porcupine hair) out of cardboard, as he wanted to dance powwow. Now people from the powwow community are showing him tons of support.

Ferrari (RACE) stock plunges 6% on Luce EV backlash — don’t panic!

Ferrari (RACE) shares dropped 6.27% in Milan trading on Tuesday, falling to €290.55 and wiping out roughly £3 billion in market cap a day after Maranello unveiled the Luce, its first all-electric car.

The reaction online was overwhelmingly negative — the design got compared to a Honda Accord, an Apple Store minivan, and a luxury toaster. Investors clearly took the temperature of the internet and ran. But we’ve seen this exact movie before — when Ford put the Mustang badge on an electric SUV.

more…

Memorial Day Green Deals hub – EVs, power stations, electric tools, devices, and much more

If you missed the nationwide memo, today is Memorial Day, and as we spend this time with family and friends, remembering our fallen service members, so too are our favorite brands for a wide variety of eco-friendly tech offering tons of seasonal discounts across e-bikes, electric scooters, power stations, tools, appliances, smart devices, and more – many of which are at their best prices to date. We’ve collected all the ongoing deals together into this one-stop shopping hub to make things easier to find, and we will continue to update this hub for the next couple days, too. So head on down below to browse through all these Green Deals while they’re still around.

more…

For young Bostonians, the apartment search is wicked rough

Our reporter jumps into a housing search in one of the most expensive rental markets in the country. He learns that staying on budget is no easy feat.

So maybe no AI-induced job apocalypse?

At a recent conference, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman toned down his talk of mass worker displacement caused by AI. He said he thought AI would have had more of an impact on the elimination of white-collar jobs by now, adding that he’s “delighted to be wrong about this” and that there’s a “human part” of work that can’t be replaced. Also on the show: a preview of a Q1 GDP revision and the astronomical costs to attend this year's World Cup.

First Draft: Trump's Ridiculous Ultimatum to Muslim Countries

The president insists that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Pakistan, and more sign onto his 'Abraham Accords' to secure a peace deal with Iran – as violence flares. Plus: in Texas, Tuesday is GOP runoff day.

Startups are betting on a legalized peptide market

Peptides are short chains of amino acids. GLP-1 weight loss drugs are peptides. Insulin is one, too. And there are thousands of others. Now, people are seeking out peptides in the hope of better muscles, better skin, better memory, better…everything. Many of the peptides people wanna try are available for research use only but the Food and Drug Administration might change this. In July, the agency could decide to make about a dozen peptides more accessible by allowing pharmacies to compound and distribute them Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Zara Stone, tech culture reporter at The San Francisco Standard, to learn more.

Stephen Miller’s Impossible America

The ethnonationalist strategy for white replenishment won’t work.

The post Stephen Miller’s Impossible America appeared first on The American Prospect.

Will Congress Pass the Housing Bill?

Trump has been trying to kill bipartisanship, but this is one bipartisan bill that Trump desperately needs.

The post Will Congress Pass the Housing Bill? appeared first on The American Prospect.

The Real Moral Majority

Sen. Chris Murphy has a sense of what ails America, and he wants to restore its spiritual core.

The post The Real Moral Majority appeared first on The American Prospect.

Nvidia’s Case for Why AI Will Cut Emissions

From Heatmap: Exclusive: Local Opposition to Data Centers Explodes in 2026 America’s tech companies are transforming the electricity system — building entirely new fleets of new solar panels, batteries, and gas turbines — in order to power what are essentially warehouses filled with cutting-edge chips.

Almost all of those chips are made by Nvidia. On this week’s episode of Shift Key, Rob is joined by Josh Parker, Nvidia’s head of sustainability. They discuss the climate and electricity impacts of artificial intelligence, why Josh is incredibly bullish on AI’s ability to cut carbon emissions and whether it has done so so far, and the company's work with clean energy and fossil fuel companies.

Shift Key is hosted by Robinson Meyer, the founding executive editor of Heatmap News.

You can find a full transcript of the episode here.

Mentioned:

Previously on Shift Key: Data Centers Are Creating a New Kind of Battery Monster

Previously on Shift Key: A Skeptic’s Take on AI and Energy Growth

From Heatmap: Exclusive: Local Opposition to Data Centers Explodes in 2026

--

This episode of Shift Key is sponsored by ...

Heatmap Pro brings all of our research, reporting, and insights down to the local level. The software platform tracks all local opposition to clean energy and data centers, forecasts community sentiment, and guides data-driven engagement campaigns. Book a demo today to see the premier intelligence platform for project permitting and community engagement.

Music for Shift Key is by Adam Kromelow.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why New York’s push to regulate e-bikes just slammed on the brakes

New York lawmakers had been pushing for increased e-bike regulations this year, including potential registration and even licensing for e-bikes. But now it looks like the sails propelling the movement have run out of wind, at least for now.

more…

The cost of SNAP restrictions

Convenience stores face new barriers to accepting SNAP dollars this year. A USDA rule aimed at providing healthier options mean some stores must choose between expanding their perishable offerings — which can be expensive — and accepting SNAP dollars at all. In this episode, we examine SNAP regulations from the perspective of businesses. Plus: Upcoming tech IPOs could shake up your retirement fund, first-time homebuyers keep getting older and Quince might set a new standard for retail business models.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

New Jewish Canadian Party Leader Says ‘Jews of Conscience’ Stand Against Israel’s Genocide in Gaza

New NDP leader Avi Lewis speaks with Mehdi about Mark Carney, democratic socialism, and how he became an anti-Zionist.

Ferrari Luce first look: going where combustion can’t follow

Ferrari unveiled the Luce today in Rome, completing a three-act reveal that started with specs last October and continued with the Jony Ive-designed interior in February. The Italian automaker flew me to Rome for the launch, and I got about 30 minutes to explore the vehicle up close, though I couldn’t drive it.

What I found was a car that challenges just about every assumption of what a Ferrari should look like, who should sit in it, and how it should sound, while being unmistakably, stubbornly Ferrari in the ways that matter most: emotions.

more…

AI reprices public-sector knowledge work

The agencies that benefit most will be the ones that treat governance as operating infrastructure.

OMB revamps cyber event logging requirements

A new memo from OMB rescinds previous logging requirements and establishes a new set of expectations that “minimizes red tape” and contains cost.

Family seeks answers after Indigenous mother dies in delivery room at Saskatoon hospital

Family and friends of Jaali Sutherland-Weenie are calling for accountability from the health-care system after the young Indigenous woman died in hospital following a severe pregnancy complication.

Honda’s affordable EV hot hatch is ‘selling like hotcakes,’ priced at $21,000

Starting at about $21,000, Honda said the electric hot hatch is already exceeding expectations with over 7,000 preorders.

more…

Bluetti exclusive Memorial Day power station lows from $237, EcoFlow 48-hour flash sale on 716Wh to 12.2kWh power stations, more

It’s Memorial Day, and as such, we have a larger number of Green Deals that you can shop from today through the rest of the week, with some new additions down below, as well as those and all the other Green Deals from past weeks collected into our one-stop-shopping hub here. Among the new additions, we have Bluetti’s official Memorial Day Sale lineup, with plenty of exclusive yearly lows, thanks to our bonus savings codes – all starting from $237. There’s also EcoFlow’s 48-hour Memorial Day flash sale that is part of the ongoing RV Season Sale, with four power station units of 716Wh to 12.2kWh capacities starting from $349, as well as Jetson’s compact Bolt Pro e-bike at a new $350 low, the Autel MaxiCharger AC Lite Home 40A Level 2 EV Charger at its $319 low, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

These Dutch students are bringing a world champion solar car to the 2026 Electrek American Solar Challenge

This July, the 2026 Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP) and American Solar Challenge (ASC) head north to Minnesota, and one of the 46 registered teams is making the trip for the very first time. The Delft Solar Team is flying in from the Netherlands, and they aren’t exactly showing up empty-handed.

I caught up with Rosa Van Wijngaarden, who runs PR for the team, to talk about who they are, what they’re driving, and what it’s like to prep for a race on a continent the team has never set wheels on.

more…

BYD turned its luxury EV into a Swiss auto piece of jewelry, and it sold for a record $800,000+

The Denza Z9 GT Chopard Edition is infused with gold accents, rare gemstones, and BYD’s new Flash Charging system, enabling it to recharge as quickly as refueling.

more…

Leaders eye on Belarus for signs it might offer Russia help in Ukraine

Belarus’ exiled opposition leader visits Kyiv as the city recovers from Russia’s largest missile attack of the year. World leaders are closely watching Belarus’ potential support for Russia’s invasion.

What is a bike bus and why are parents loving them so much?

For years, the school drop-off line has been one of the defining rituals of suburban life: a long queue of idling SUVs inching toward the curb while stressed parents try to make it to work on time and kids stare at their phones in the back seat.

But in a growing number of communities around the world, another option is starting to catch on: the bike bus.

And parents are absolutely loving it.

more…

Musk abandoned his own ‘solar electric economy’ to burn gas for an AI chatbot no one uses

Elon Musk spent years telling the world that solar power was the obvious answer to Earth’s energy needs — that a small patch of desert could power the entire United States. Now, he’s burning millions of tons of fossil fuels to run an AI chatbot that has lost 60% of its downloads, selling the unused compute to a company he called “misanthropic and evil” three months ago, and pitching space-based solar panels right as SpaceX files for a $2 trillion IPO.

The contradictions are stacking up faster than xAI’s unpermitted gas turbines.

more…

A different type of college counselor

Last month, four high school seniors participated in an experiment. A Stanford economist was given a list of colleges they were accepted to, what they were contemplating studying, their financial situations, and the aid packages they were offered. Then, she recommended the most economically sound college choice for each. Today, we'll delve into her choices and thinking. But first: why it would be crazy to think about cutting interest rates right now.

International tribunal begins investigation into missing Indigenous children and unmarked burials

The Permanent People's Tribunal will examine evidence regarding Canada's responsibility for the residential schools system and the human rights violations associated with it.

Memorial Day Green Deals hub – EVs, power stations, electric tools, devices, and much more

If you missed the nationwide memo, today is Memorial Day, and as we spend this time with family and friends, remembering our fallen service members, so too are our favorite brands for a wide variety of eco-friendly tech offering tons of seasonal discounts across e-bikes, electric scooters, power stations, tools, appliances, smart devices, and more – many of which are at their best prices to date. We’ve collected all the ongoing deals together into this one-stop shopping hub to make things easier to find, and we will continue to update this hub for the next couple days, too. So head on down below to browse through all these Green Deals while they’re still around.

more…

They Thought Trump Would Help Free Imran Khan – But They Were Terribly Wrong

The former Pakistani leader remains behind bars, prompting those Pakistani-American groups that backed Trump and Republicans in 2024 to now worry they got 'played' by the president and his team.

Worries about water out West

A new U.S. Department of the Interior report confirms what many already feared: The Colorado River system, which pumps out water to 40 million people in seven western states, is looking grim. It was already depleted from drought and a dry winter, but there’s now concern over hydropower and keeping taps flowing in Phoenix and Tucson. We'll dig in. Then, the number of Latino-owned businesses is growing at a fast pace.

How one company is using AI for improved wildfire risk mitigation

The wildfire risk mitigation company Technosylva helps utilities, insurers and government agencies predict where and when a fire could spark. It uses historical weather data to make those predictions and suggest changes to help prevent or mitigate a fire. For example, maybe moving a tree branch that's close to a power line so it doesn't fall and start a fire.

The company is nearly 30 years old, and Technosylva's chief executive, Bryan Spear, explains how the advent of AI has changed the work they do.

How Gov. Spanberger Betrayed Virginia’s Workers

After failing to gut a bill that legalized collective bargaining for state and local government workers, she opted to veto it.

The post How Gov. Spanberger Betrayed Virginia’s Workers appeared first on The American Prospect.

Why affordable housing grows scarce – even in Florida and the South

Finding a reasonably priced home used to be easy in the South. But soaring home prices have far outpaced wage growth, creating a housing squeeze.

Will ICE Create a Human Rights Nightmare at the FIFA World Cup?

Human rights groups warn the Trump admin's promise that DHS agents will play a 'key' role in security during the tournament could lead to immigration round-ups and abuse.

Iran hawks in GOP pan Trump’s emerging proposal to end the war

President Donald Trump’s emerging deal to end the Iran war is drawing heavy criticism from some fellow Republicans. They favor a harder line against the Iranian government and fear a lost opportunity to finally rein in a longtime Mideast nemesis.

Rutgers Canceled Me as a Graduation Speaker Because of My Advocacy for Palestine

My mere presence, Rutgers decided, is what its graduating engineers could not be exposed to. Unable to challenge me on the facts, the institution stifled my speech instead, writes Rami Elghandour.

Swearing Off 'Toxic' AIPAC Money: Oregon Democrat Opens Up to Mehdi

In 2024, AIPAC spent roughly $2 million to elect Maxine Dexter. Now, she’s supporting Rashida Tlaib’s Gaza genocide resolution. The tides are changing.

LiveWire’s 125cc-equivalent electric fun bikes begin revealing their secrets

We’re finally starting to learn more about LiveWire’s upcoming S4 Honcho electric motorcycles as the company begins showing off pre-production prototypes around the US ahead of launch.

more…

'Muslims Are Treated as Second-Class Citizens': Mehdi Tells Piers Morgan about Rising Islamophobia in the Wake of the Mosque Attack

Plus, could Iran become America’s next ‘forever war’? How do we stop that? Check out Mehdi and an all-star panel of experts discuss live at DC’s renowned Busboys & Poets.

Tesla now calls FSD ‘Tesla Assisted Driving’ in China – a more truthful name

Tesla has once again changed the name of its “FSD” system in China, using a more truthful name for the system in the world’s largest auto market.

more…

Solar surprise: rare cloud condition pushed this solar panel system OVER 100%

One Redditor got a big surprise this week, when they checked their rooftop solar app and saw something incredible – their 880 W PV system seemed to break physics by making more than 1,050 W of power!

more…

Israel Kills Gaza Community Kitchen Workers and Tortures Global Sumud Flotilla Activists

Zeteo's weekly round-up of the stories you may have missed out of occupied Gaza and the West Bank, as Israel continues its genocidal war and apartheid policies.

New bill could change how e-bikes are labeled and sold

A new bill in Delaware could change how electric bikes and other small electric vehicles are marketed and sold, aiming to crack down on what lawmakers see as growing confusion between legal e-bikes and higher-powered electric mopeds or motorcycles.

more…

Damaged chemical tank spurs mass evacuations in Garden Grove, California

About 40,000 people are under evacuation orders and schools have shut down in Southern California due to a hazardous chemical leak. Officials say a storage tank began leaking a chemical used in making plastic parts.

Cadillac expands into Brazil as GM’s global ambitions and F1 plans converge

GM’s global ambitions will take center stage ahead of the next Brazilian Grand Prix, with its flagship luxury brand Cadillac announcing plans to open three brand-new “Experience Centers” in the South American nation as part of the lead-up to the race.

more…

Charging ahead: Kuala Lumpur, Penang beat EVSE deployment goals

While some nations and their Boomer leaders cling to some imagined past, the rest of the world is charging towards a zero-emission future. Now, you can add Malaysian states Kuala Lumpur and Penang to the latter list, as both states exceeded their annual EV charger deployment goal … and they did it in March!

more…

E-quipment highlight: SANY SY375E packs a SWAPPABLE 550 kWh battery

Chinese multinational equipment brand SANY says its new, SY375E electric excavator will redefine heavy-duty performance and job site sustainability with its impressive range of capabilities – but one item leaps off the spec sheet: the massive, swappable 550 kWh CATL battery!

more…

Yes, Trump Was ‘Very Involved’ in His $1.8 Billion Slush Fund Deal

‘I wasn’t involved in the settlement,’ Trump claimed this week, but sources say the president was ‘involved,’ ‘kept in the loop,’ and could have stopped the deal at any time.

Economics expert Greg Ip analyses rising bond yields and their impact on the economy

NPR's Scott Simon speaks to Greg Ip, chief economics commentator at The Wall Street Journal, about rising bond yields and what they mean for consumer and the broader economy.

50 Shades of Legal Gray

Watch now | Norm Eisen, President Obama’s “ethics czar” and founder of Democracy Defenders, talks to Alex Wagner about Trump’s latest avalanche of corruption.

Summer electric bills sizzle as the cost of cooling climbs

The temperature is climbing, and so are people's utility bills. Rising electricity prices and hotter-than-usual weather could make it especially costly to stay cool this summer.

Learn to Code, They Said

Coding was supposed to be a pathway to a high-paying job, but AI is pulling the rug out from young programmers.

The post Learn to Code, They Said appeared first on The American Prospect.

Breaking the Cycle of Political Violence

Does political violence ever help a social cause? Zayd Ayers Dohrn joins Offline to discuss the complicated legacy of radical activism in America.

Terminally Online: Going Full Truther

A deep dive into John Travolta’s stunning beret collection, Scientology TikToks, the “ring by spring” trend, and Raleigh, NC influencer drama.

San Diego mosque shooting comes amid anti-Muslim spike. What can be done?

The fatal shooting at a San Diego mosque this week comes amid a rise of incidents of hate or prejudice against Muslims in the U.S. The attack also renewed attention on how young people are radicalized online and prevention efforts.

This Week in Democracy – Week 70: Trump Loses His National Intelligence Chief, Wins Immunity From Tax Probes

Zeteo's weekly round-up, documenting the growth of authoritarianism in Trump's second term.

Federal Movers & Shakers | May 22, 2026

Tracking leadership changes across the federal government

Services stall as manufacturing booms

S&P Global’s flash Purchasing Managers’ Index for May reflects “a tale of two economies.” Input costs increased across industries this month, and while manufacturers could keep up, the services sector faced softening demand. Also in this episode: Birdwatching brings tourist dollars to Northwest Ohio, an independent performance venue in Iowa gets creative to keep the lights on, and we discuss the week’s economic headlines.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

VA’s EHR rollout gets bipartisan praise, as employee groups warn they’re still seeing issues

A former VA clinician told lawmakers that new facilities adopting the new EHR are seeing the “exact same problems” as earlier deployments.

Inside Israel's Abusive Treatment of Gaza Flotilla Activists: Rape, Tasers, and Beatings

Zeteo contributor Alex Colston joins Prem to reveal what he and others on the Global Sumud Flotilla endured in Israeli detention.

White House seeks federal spending data on dozens of nonprofit organizations

OMB told agencies to report federal spending going toward 49 nonprofit organizations, many of which focus on DEI, immigration support and humanitarian aid.

Chevy Equinox and Blazer EVs gain a few key updates for 2027: Here’s what to expect

The 2027 Chevy Equinox EV and Blazer EV are due for a few updates that fix some of the biggest complaints with the current models.

more…

Tulsi Gabbard resigns as director of national intelligence, citing her husband’s health

Tulsi Gabbard has resigned as President Donald Trump’s director of national intelligence, saying she needed to leave office as her husband battles cancer. She is the fourth Cabinet member to depart during Trump’s second term, all of them women. In her resignation letter, which she posted on social media, Gabbard said she told Trump she would leave her job on June 30. She said her husband had recently been diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer and “faces major challenges in the coming weeks and months.” Trump posted that her principal deputy, Aaron Lukas, will serve as acting director of national intelligence.

House Appropriations Cmte looks to reduce 2027 funding for EPA, other agencies

The bill would reduce funding for the Smithsonian Institution, the National Gallery of Art and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

What A Day: Frenemies in Low Places

Trump doesn’t understand why everyone’s mad at him, apparently.

This Boston apartment complex comes with 64 EV chargers

Boston’s largest apartment EV charging project to date just went live in Hyde Park.

more…

Even as AI gets better at finding digital weak spots, it doesn’t eliminate the human role in cyber conflict

"Hopefully our cyber policies and governance personnel are doing a better job than our adversaries in training their AI versus our AI," said Justin Miller

BREAKING: Tulsi Gabbard, Trump Warmonger and Aspiring Election-Rigger, Resigns

She built her reputation on being anti-war and left-wing but then embraced Donald Trump, MAGA, and warmongering. Now, she’s quitting as Director of National Intelligence.

Tsleil-Waututh Nation kicks off new era for athletes with artificial turf

Tsleil-Waututh Nation's soccer players now will have a chance to build skills and connections on a brand new artificial turf, a project the First Nation says is over 40 years in the making.

The asset management gap putting government compliance at risk

Agencies that manage assets effectively deliberately treat asset management as a governance function, not an administrative one–and invest accordingly.

Podcast: Tesla Solar, Volvo EX60 unveiled, Xiaomi YU7 GT, and AMG GT

In the Electrek Podcast, we discuss the most popular news in the world of sustainable transport and energy. In this week’s episode, we discuss Tesla going back to solar, Volvo EX60 unveiling, Xiaomi YU7 GT, AMG GT, and more.

Today’s episode is sponsored by GM Energy. If you want to experience more resilience and control over your home energy, the GM Energy Home System adds stationary battery power for always-ready backup energy for your home, and the GM Energy PowerBank takes in energy from the grid and stores it for when you need it most. Learn more at gmenergy.gm.com

more…

An In-Studio Spectacular

Lovett’s getting married, but before he walks down the aisle, he heads into the studio, joining The Bulwark’s Tim Miller to talk ballrooms, breaking news, and Trump’s big, sloppy slush fund.

Ride1Up’s three VORSA modular multi-use e-bikes from $1,395, Navee Memorial Day Sale restocks UT5 Ultra X electric superscooter, more

We’re closing out this week’s Green Deals led by two EV sales. Ride1Up has added all three versions of its VORSA Modular Multi-Use e-bikes to its Memorial Day Sale lineup at their lowest prices starting from $1,395, while Navee’s Memorial Day Sale has restocked the newest UT5 Ultra X Electric SuperScooter at $2,300, with tons of other models starting from $150. We also rounded up a bunch of EcoFlow’s under-1,024Wh power stations, like the 960Wh DELTA 3 1000 Air Power Station at a new $299 low, as well as the expanded 858Wh RIVER 3 Max Plus Power Station at a new $359 low, among others. There’s also Aiper’s Memorial Day Sale that has dropped the latest Scuba V3 AI Vision Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner to its $900 low, and many more holiday savings are waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s launch deals on the Heybike Saturn Moped-Style e-bike starting from $999, the pre-sale deal you can score on Anker’s upcoming S2000 Portable Power Station for $599, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

Kia is killing off its cheapest gas car, but a new EV will replace it

Starting at about $20,000, the Picanto is Kia’s most affordable new car in Europe, the UK, and several other global markets. The entry-level gas car is likely on its way out as part of the shift to electrification, but Kia has a new EV that will replace it.

more…

Advocacy group sues Trump administration over access to abortion for veterans

An advocacy group has filed suit against the Trump administration over its decision to reinstate a near-ban on abortions for veterans and their family members.

WFSU GM David Mullins to retire

Mullins has led the station for more than a decade.

The post WFSU GM David Mullins to retire appeared first on Current.

Governments increasingly assume they’ll use offensive cyber tools as part of state power

"Rather than it being a separate domain, it is now part of a whole-of-state response and a whole-of-state action in those conflict situations," Kat Sommer said.

No, China Isn’t Winning the Iran War. The U.S. Is Just Losing

D.C. fixates on China because it’s easier than addressing the real causes of American decline. Ex-defense intel analyst Harrison Mann explains 5 key things to understand about the U.S., Iran, & China.

This unlikely friendship could herald new era of South Korea-Japan cooperation

Despite coming from different ends of the political spectrum – and lingering tensions between their countries – Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung are forging a deep partnership.

The Digital Divide Is a Civil Rights Issue: The Fight for Digital Equity and the Battle Against Dark Money- Episode 9 of Unbuffered

A conversation about digital equity, dark money, and the fight over Internet access

Property prices in Seoul: A threat to national survival?

In South Korea, President Lee Jae-myung sees housing affordability as an existential challenge for the future of the country.

Cooking up financial stability – at home

Across the U.S., states are recognizing that home-based food businesses provide vital economic and community services. New regulations, such as in Colorado, are helping families use traditional, in-house skills as a way to achieve their “American Dream.”

BYD’s flagship electric sedan spotted with a familiar look ahead of its debut [Images]

The Great Han is set to debut any day now as a sibling to BYD’s new flagship electric SUV, the Great Tang. It’s expected to offer an impressive 1,000 km (621 miles) range and fast charging in as little as five minutes.

more…

Lucid’s more affordable Cosmos midsize SUV spotted testing next to Tesla Model Y

A camouflaged Lucid Cosmos prototype has been spotted testing on public roads near the Lucid factory in Casa Grande, Arizona. The photo shows the midsize SUV right next to a Tesla Model Y, giving us our best real-world size comparison yet.

The sighting comes as Lucid prepares for the Cosmos’s full public unveil this summer, with production slated for late 2026.

more…

Tesla Cybercab: hate it or love it, it is the most efficient EV ever

Tesla’s Cybercab has been certified at 165 Wh/mi, making it the most efficient electric vehicle ever produced — by a wide margin. The next most efficient EV on the market, the Lucid Air Pure, consumes 28% more energy per mile.

Tesla VP of Vehicle Engineering Lars Moravy confirmed the figure, which represents a certified rating — not a marketing claim or internal target. It’s an impressive achievement, but it comes with a massive asterisk: Tesla accomplished this by building a tiny two-seat robotaxi with no steering wheel, no pedals, and a sub-50 kWh battery pack.

more…

Snare fishing 101: Students learn traditional ways at Clearwater River Dene Nation

Students at Clearwater River Dene Nation in Saskatchewan have a unique access to land-based learning, gaining experience with hunting and fishing methods as part of their education. Earlier this week, they learned how to snare fish.

Meet Honda’s $21,000 electric hot hatch [Images]

Honda’s electric hot hatch went on sale in Japan on Friday, starting at about $21,000. The Super-ONE EV will launch in Europe, the UK, and other overseas regions soon.

more…

When an algorithm tells you how to do your job

HotSOS Housekeeping is an app that uses real-time data to help hotel housekeepers speed up room turnover. But the constant monitoring means the tracking of every move, which can add stress and discomfort for some workers. Today, we hear from two housekeepers — one who has union protections and one who doesn't — about how the algorithmic app has changed their worklives. But first, rising prices mean the central bank may flirt with interest rate hikes this year.

Drive slower, go electric, don't drive at all? The best options for saving gas

The national average for a gallon of gasoline is $4.55, as America heads into one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. What can you do to cut your costs?

The Monitor view of ‘newsworthy’

The stories in our magazine this week are timely and news relevant. Together, they paint a portrait of global humanity that’s different from the image of division and discord regularly portrayed in media headlines and social media feeds.

Some Republicans in Congress buck Trump, complicating paths forward

Some congressional Republicans have pushed back at President Trump on a fund to pay people the justice department finds were wrongly prosecuted, among other issues. That resistance could make it harder for the president’s party to accomplish its priorities.

The cost of that Memorial Day travel

Memorial Day weekend is here, kicking off the summer travel season. More Americans are expected to hit the roads this year, but it comes at a time when gas prices are the highest they've been in four years — up about a $1.40 since the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran, and Iran effectively closed off the Strait of Hormuz. Also on this morning’s podcast: high-profile concert cancellations and a preview of consumer sentiment.

Wheel-E Podcast: Lectric XPress2 launch, Amazon cargo quads, more

This week on Electrek’s Wheel-E podcast, we discuss the most popular news stories from the world of electric bikes and other nontraditional electric vehicles. This time, that includes new e-bike launches from the Lectric XPress2 to the Heybike Saturn, gigantic cargo e-bikes from Amazon, a deep dive into the Yozma IN10 Pro, Juiced’s Nomadix, and more.

more…

‘The first thing I thought about was the books’: The fight for a Gaza library

Opened April 2026, the Phoenix Library in Gaza City is rebuilding a culture of reading with books salvaged from more than two years of destruction.

Trump's Revenge Leads to Republican Revolt

Watch now | So much for Trump’s iron grip on the party. Just days after Thomas Massie’s defeat, Republicans in the Senate and House begin to buck Trump on his top priorities:

First Draft: Has the Democratic Party Learned Nothing From 2024?

The Democratic National Committee’s embarrassing 2024 'autopsy,' finally published, didn’t even mention Gaza. Plus: is a Republican rebellion really brewing over Trump’s $1.776 billion slush fund?

Specialized launches impressive full-suspension Vado 3 X commuter e-bike

Just a month after unveiling its new Vado 3 and Vado 3 EVO urban e-bike lineup, Specialized is already expanding the family with a new model that pushes even further into adventure-bike territory.

Meet the new Vado 3 X.

more…

The Legacy of Tejano Music: From Selena to Beyoncé and Kacey Musgraves

In late February 2026, The Mariachi Brothers, a musical group of 3 teen boys, were targeted by ICE and sent...

The post The Legacy of Tejano Music: From Selena to Beyoncé and Kacey Musgraves appeared first on Latino USA.

Who Gets to Define ‘American Art’? Inside the 2026 Whitney Biennial

Inside one of the country’s largest contemporary art exhibitions, the Whitney Biennial, slimy green sculptures stare back at you, the...

The post Who Gets to Define ‘American Art’? Inside the 2026 Whitney Biennial appeared first on Latino USA.

Google search gets an AI makeover

On this week’s Marketplace Tech Bytes: Week in Review, we take a look at how college graduates do not wanna hear about AI. Plus, what we all learned from the Musk v. Open AI case.

But first, AI was unsurprisingly front and center at Google’s annual I/O developer conference. Among a suite of new AI products, Google said it updated its iconic search bar. Now, when searching in AI mode, the bar will expand as you ask a question. It will also provide suggestions about what you might wanna ask. Google says this is the biggest change to its search box since it debuted over 25 years ago. Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Anita Ramaswamy, a columnist at The Information, about how this could change how people experience the internet.

Check out our YouTube page to watch more episodes of “Tech Bytes.”

Tesla recalls 14,575 Model Ys because they may be missing a sticker

Tesla is recalling 14,575 Model Y vehicles, produced between November ’25 and April ’26, due to a possible missing certification label.

more…

Who Died When Elon Musk Killed USAID?

Nicholas Enrich’s new memoir details the human toll of the agency’s dismantling.

The post Who Died When Elon Musk Killed USAID? appeared first on The American Prospect.

Memo to Ezra Klein: Check Out Wichita and Boise

You don’t need to scrap planning and zoning to get abundant and affordable housing. In fact, planning and zoning can help get housing built.

The post Memo to Ezra Klein: Check Out Wichita and Boise appeared first on The American Prospect.

How Israel Got This Way

A new book by a genocide scholar traces the roots of the nation’s descent.

The post How Israel Got This Way appeared first on The American Prospect.

The Real Stakes Behind California’s Billionaire Tax Fight: Health Care Access

A hospital CEO says looming Medicaid reductions threaten vulnerable residents and the state’s health system.

The post The Real Stakes Behind California’s Billionaire Tax Fight: Health Care Access appeared first on The American Prospect.

The GOP has been a pro-Israel party for decades. Is that changing?

On the surface, Republican leaders remain staunchly pro-Israel. But a clear, generational shift is emerging, as younger conservatives have grown skeptical of U.S. aid to Israel and of Jewish political influence in the U.S.

The Israel Lobby Is Spending Millions Against This Palestinian-American Candidate in... San Diego

Returning from a funeral for the San Diego mosque attack victims, Ammar Campa-Najjar joins Mehdi to discuss the shooting, running for Congress, and Laura Loomer's deranged attacks on him and Muslims.

Yozma IN10 Pro Review: $2,000 buys 50mph Sur Ron Light Bee killa

Last month I reviewed the $1,200 Yozma IN10 and called it unstoppable at its price point. Then I promised to come back with another thousand dollars and the Pro. Here we are.

The base $1200 IN10 made a compelling case for itself as a teen’s trail machine. The Pro makes a different argument entirely. Same fun Yozma DNA, same off-road-only positioning — but the numbers have jumped into territory that starts to make you ask harder questions. The I N10 Pro is rated at 5,500W peak with 220Nm of torque and a claimed 50mph top speed. For context: that’s not eMoto-for-kids territory anymore. That’s approaching light electric motorcycle territory, at a fraction of the price.

more…

Sustainability, sustainability, and de-risking your fleet operations

On today’s sustainably-produced episode of Quick Charge, we explore some of the different types of sustainability available to us in the world of electrification, celebrate some big wind and solar wins, and take a minute to enjoy some schadenfreude.

more…

EV charging demand is stressing local grids, and Texture just raised $12.5M to tackle it

Grid software startup Texture has raised a $12.5 million Series A round as utilities scramble to keep up with rising electricity demand from EVs, EV chargers, data centers, renewables, and extreme weather.

more…

As agencies test the agentic AI waters, this national lab is diving in

Idaho National Laboratory turns a page as CIO Mark Holterman presses forward with autonomous AI – thoughtfully – as a practical solution.

Agencies look to AI, automation amid growth in digital records

Federal leaders see automation and AI as crucial to wrangling an ever increasing tide of digital records that's leading to backlogs in areas like FOIA.

Lawmakers press DoD to commit to TRICARE pharmacy contract annual audits

"DoD can't continue to ignore this conflict of interest that arises when a company owns both a PBM and a pharmacy. That has got to stop," Elizabeth Warren said.

Summer tourism forecast: Worried with few Canadians

Inns and campgrounds in Maine are ready to welcome summer tourists. But many Canadians are staying away because of the beef between the two countries. And high fuel prices are an issue for everyone.

Why do some companies wait to IPO?

Elon Musk’s SpaceX just filed to go public, and OpenAI is expected to file in the fall. Both businesses have been around for over a decade — what was the hold up? In this episode, we explain the tradeoffs that come with an IPO. Plus: U.S. manufacturers struggle with climbing tungsten prices, Stellantis doubles down on affordable car models, and the authors of “How to Win a Trade War” make an optimistic case for our future global economy.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

HHS shrinks cash awards for top performers, shifting funds to bonuses with less clear criteria

HHS is reducing performance-based cash awards for employees while shifting more bonus funding toward incentive awards tied to efficiency and anti-fraud efforts.

Hawaii’s newest NEVI charging station is part of a different kind of rollout

Hawaii is continuing to build out its public EV charging network, and the state just opened a new NEVI-funded fast charging site at Kapalua Airport on Maui.

more…

Jeep and Ram vehicles are about to get more affordable with prices under $40,000

Stellantis plans to launch seven new Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler vehicles priced under $40,000, and two that will cost less than $30,000.

more…

When a MAGA Manufactured Outrage Campaign Came After Me

Here’s my personal experience with Trumpist weaponization.

Restoring CISA is one issue many lawmakers can agree on

Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE) and James Walkinshaw (D-Va.) say restoring and extending CISA’s capabilities is a top priority for Congress.

What A Day: Read It... and Weep?

The DNC released its unfinished 2024 autopsy. What happens next?

The Genesis GV90 has coach doors and a massive 27″ digital screen [Video]

The GV90 will be available with Rolls-Royce-like coach doors as Genesis upscales into higher-end segments. With an expected debut soon, an uncovered model was found abandoned in a field alongside other Lucid, Hyundai, and Audi vehicles.

more…

Government agencies are getting dragged down by ‘data gravity.’ Here’s how they’ll break free.

Inefficient data infrastructures carry economic costs, require more physical servers, more power and more cooling to brute-force the same problems.

The government contracting succession imperative

Leaders in the government contracting sector who want to position their organizations for long-term success must begin addressing it today.

DNC Chair Ken Martin FINALLY Releases 2024 Autopsy Report

DNC Chair Ken Martin finally releases its long-awaited 2024 election autopsy report after mounting public pressure. Tommy Vietor and Jon Favreau break down the latest.

Solid-state EV batteries hit another major milestone in China

Chinese lithium metal giant Ganfeng Lithium has begun producing what it calls the world’s first 10 Ah solid-state batteries with an energy density of 500 Wh/kg. The lithium giant has supply deals with Tesla, Volkswagen, Hyundai, and several other major OEMs for key EV battery materials.

more…

OPM’s top official for healthcare and insurance resigns

Shane Stevens, who has been serving as associate director of healthcare and insurance at OPM since last summer, is voluntarily resigning from the role.

The Office of Special Counsel may be getting a new leader

Trump fired Hampton Dellinger, the OSC’s previous special counsel and a Biden appointee, in 2025.

Tom Steyer’s Problem

Even as Mark Zuckerberg is now funding a pro-Becerra PAC, Steyer lacks the only two endorsements that could actually help him.

The post Tom Steyer’s Problem appeared first on The American Prospect.

Having expertise doesn’t always mean the system knows what to do with it

"It's not always clear who is getting what, and it's not always clear that those different programs are terribly effective," said Miriam Matthews.

7 Things to Know About Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the Ex-Iranian President the U.S. Wanted Back in Power

In the early days of the war, the U.S. and Israel wanted to put the hard-liner and Holocaust denier back in power, the NYT reported.

Heybike’s new Saturn moped-style e-bike + $168 FREE bundle from $999, Anker SOLIX S2000 power station pre-sale deal for $599, more

Just like yesterday’s edition with two new launch deals from some of our favorite brands, our Thursday Green Deals is following suit with two early-bird launch deals, starting with the Heybike Saturn Moped-Style e-bike (with two battery configurations) getting a $168 FREE bundle of gear from $999. Right behind that, we have a pre-launch deal through June 1 that gives you a coupon to score Anker’s upcoming SOLIX S2000 Portable Power Station at $599 once it launches (over the general $680 deal price). From there, we spotted a rare chance to pick up the EGO Power+ 2,100 PSI Electric Pressure Washer with a 6.0Ah battery at its $449 low, as well as Hiboy’s 40-mile travelling S2 Max Electric Scooter at $495 ($95 less than its direct sale pricing), Aiper’s IrriSense 2 smart irrigation system at a new low, an EGO 15-inch cordless electric string trimmer deal, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s launch bundle deals on the new Juiced Scrambler and Lectric XPress2 e-bikes, the latest EcoFlow flash sale offers that are ending tonight, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

Honda is recalling nearly 60,000 electric SUVs

The Prologue was once among the top-selling EVs in the US, but Honda’s electric SUV has lost a bit of its luster. To make matters worse, Honda is now issuing a recall impacting almost 60,000 Prologue and Acura ZDX vehicles.

more…

WEIU-TV ends over-the-air broadcasting

The Illinois TV station lost nearly 80% of its revenue with the rescission of federal funding for public broadcasting.

The post WEIU-TV ends over-the-air broadcasting appeared first on Current.

After a tough year for federal senior executives, new leadership at SEA is looking at what comes next

"Agencies are being asked to move faster, operate leaner, manage uncertainty, and still deliver results at a very high level," said Dr. Michelle Sutter.

A PCS move can test a family’s finances, routines and support systems all at once

"When you're having to move at a cadence like that, there are a lot of financial things that come into play," said Sarah Roder.

Chief Payepot School arts and language festival shares stories of the bear

Chief Payepot School holds an arts and language festival where pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 students showcased song, dance, theatre and crafts they made, all with a chosen theme. This year's theme is the bear.

BYD launches upgraded Yuan Plus EV SUV with more range and flash charging for $18,000

BYD launched the third-generation Yuan Plus, sold overseas as the Atto 3, with its new Flash Charging and nearly 400 miles of driving range. The upgraded electric SUV is on sale now, starting at less than $18,000.

more…

Norway is a humanitarian superpower. Can that continue without US support?

With the United States withdrawing from global humanitarian efforts, is there an opportunity for middle power Norway to step into the gap?

Inside Trump’s War on Late-Night Comedy – and Why It Matters

Tonight, Stephen Colbert’s show will end. Trump’s deeply corrupt and autocratic efforts to harass and censor late-night TV hosts who mock or criticize him... will not.

Iran’s economy was already struggling. The war has made it far worse.

War, an internet blackout, and a shipping blockade: The people of Iran are living through an economic meltdown. The way out of it is far from clear.

A first response to an epidemic: Calming fear

World health officials praise the trust-building approach during the latest outbreak of Ebola in Central Africa. “Fear by itself is an outbreak,” said one official.

Open Tabs: The Wrath of Trump

Trump crows about his primary wins. Republicans on the Hill are less thrilled. Plus, the DNC autopsy finally sees the light of day.

Big Tech's big IPOs

Some of the biggest names in tech are making moves to go public this week. SpaceX — Elon Musk’s rocket, social media, and AI company — filed for an initial public offering yesterday. And the Wall Street Journal reported that OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, could file for an IPO as soon as tomorrow. These companies have raised a lot of private capital over the years. Why go public now? Plus, the pharmaceutical industry is investing billions in finding exotic radioactive isotopes to treat cancers.

Walmart plans price cuts using tariff refunds as shoppers get skittish

Now that the U.S. government must refund most tariffs, Walmart says it might put its refund money toward lowering store prices. Executives say the cost of gas has shoppers increasingly under stress.

When the job ends early: What 6(c) employees need to know about disability

AFBA helps federal employees understand their benefits before decisions become urgent.

House committee discusses modernizing the TSA as Trump seeks to privatize airport screening

Members of the House Committee on Homeland Security held a hearing on ways to modernize the TSA nearly 25 years after it was created.

Xiaomi’s new YU7 undercuts Tesla Model Y by $4,350 with 50 km more range

Xiaomi launched a new entry-level YU7 “Standard Edition” today priced at RMB 233,500 (~$32,400) — undercutting the Tesla Model Y by RMB 30,000 ($4,350) while delivering 643 km of range versus the Model Y’s 593 km.

CEO Lei Jun admitted onstage that the original YU7’s pricing was “not competitive enough” against Tesla, with only a RMB 10,000 (~$1,450) gap. The company also unveiled the 1,003-HP YU7 GT, which shattered the Nürburgring SUV record by 14 seconds.

more…

Comings and goings: MPR hires chief meteorologist, WHRO expands newsroom …

Ben Cathey was previously a Ted Scripps Fellow in Environmental Journalism at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

The post Comings and goings: MPR hires chief meteorologist, WHRO expands newsroom … appeared first on Current.

‘Far-Right France’ author analyzes shifts in Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party

In a Q&A, Victor Mallet, author of “Far-Right France,” talks about changes in French politics, and voter embrace of a party long considered outside the mainstream.

Interior Dept. decided on its $1B oil bribe to stop wind power before it had a reason

The Interior Department, which recently used $1 billion in taxpayer funds to bribe a foreign oil company into stopping development of cheap offshore wind in the US, had already decided on the deal before it had fabricated a legal justification for it, according to emails obtained by Congress.

more…

Call it the "Great Flattening"

About 8,000 Meta employees lost their jobs this week. The company is looking to offset its massive AI spending and “operate with a flatter structure." 'Flatness' has become a common refrain when tech companies shed jobs. It refers to the elimination of layers of middle-management roles, as AI agents take over some coordinating functions. Also on the show: Nvidia faces stiffer competition, and we learn about advancements in radiation cancer therapies.

First Draft: Jeff Bezos, Trump Toady

Mehdi on the tech billionaire's shameless shilling for Trump; the president's insane comments about 13 US soldiers killed in his illegal war; and the Democrats' slush fund fightback.

Louisiana senator helped secure Meta's largest data center. Then he sold the land beside it.

State senator John “Jay” Morris helped bring Meta’s Hyperion project to Richland Parish. Here’s what he did with his land — before and after Meta’s announcement.

'I haven't done anything wrong': A Q&A with Louisiana State Sen. Jay Morris

Morris’ recent land deals in light of Meta’s Hyperion data center buildout are raising questions about whether the senator violated state laws designed to prohibit self-dealing.

AI's double-edged (cyber) sword

Anthropic’s newest AI model, Mythos, is so good, the company says, at uncovering security vulnerabilities that it's too dangerous to release to the public. Anthropic shared a preview version with a select group to help patch the holes that Mythos finds.

But the prospect of a super-hacker AI system is still sending some business leaders into a panic. Marketplace’s Meghan McCarty Carino reports.

Is Chaos the Point in South Carolina?

Seems to be, but overzealous Republican state legislators steamrolling new congressional maps onto baffled voters may end up in a world of hurt.

The post Is Chaos the Point in South Carolina? appeared first on The American Prospect.

Home Depot and Lowe’s Downplay Customer Surveillance Threats

Shareholders are seeking more info about how the companies collect and share data, including automatic license plate readers that cops and federal agents use to hunt immigrants.

The post Home Depot and Lowe’s Downplay Customer Surveillance Threats appeared first on The American Prospect.

Meet Connecticut’s Billionaire-Backed Dark-Money Democrat

Former Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin earned $237,000 consulting for a civic organization funded in large part by two prominent benefactors. Then they maxed out their contributions to his congressional campaign.

The post Meet Connecticut’s Billionaire-Backed Dark-Money Democrat appeared first on The American Prospect.

Pod Save America: OnlyFriends (Trump Endorses Paxton, Iran War, Platner's Reddit Posts)

Jon and Tommy discuss the latest stories that didn't make it into Pod Save America, just for subscribers.

Heybike launches 40 MPH electric moped for an insanely low $999, but at what cost?

The moped-style electric bike market continues to grow, and now Heybike is throwing its hat further into the ring with the launch of its new Saturn e-bike. And the company is coming out swinging with specs that jump right off the page and a price tag that will make you say, “wait, whaaat?”

more…

Trump settlement fund claims a high motive. Critics see a corruption of justice.

The Trump administration has reached an unusual settlement in a case of the president suing his own government. Critics worry that a resulting “anti-weaponization fund” will be ripe for abuse benefiting President Donald Trump, his family, and his allies.

Among Democrats, support for Israel is crumbling – with major implications

An overwhelming majority of Democrats now view Israel negatively – a dramatic shift that is playing out in primary campaigns across the country. It could portend big changes in policy, should the party capture control of Congress.

SEIA: AI is fueling a massive US energy storage boom

The US energy storage industry kicked off 2026 with its strongest Q1 on record, despite the Trump administration continuing to attack clean energy.

more…

Tribunal into missing Indigenous children and unmarked graves to hold sessions in Montreal

The Permanent Peoples' Tribunal will be in Montreal May 25-29 to investigate human rights violations related to missing Indigenous children and unmarked graves associated with residential schools.

Northern Ontario health authority's ex-CEO, former chief of staff raise concerns after baby's death

A former CEO for the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority says the organization had achieved accreditation before he left in 2010 and he's disappointed it's no longer in place, especially after hearing of the death of an infant at the Fort Albany Hospital. "It really hits home when it’s a young boy that’s not even a year old that passes,” Pat Chilton told CBC News.

SpaceX S-1 reveals Tesla’s Terafab deal is far from done

SpaceX filed its S-1 with the SEC today ahead of its blockbuster IPO, and buried in the 308-page document is a sobering reality check on the Tesla (TSLA) collaborations that Elon Musk has been hyping for months.

The legal language in SpaceX’s own filing reveals that both Terafab and Macrohard — the two major joint projects between Tesla and SpaceX — are in “very early stages” with no financial terms, no intellectual property rights, and no binding commitments finalized.

more…

Mother of Mosque Shooting Survivor Says MAGA ‘Supercharged’ Political Violence

After a deadly shooting at San Diego’s largest Islamic center, Mehdi speaks to the mother of a preschooler who was locked down during the harrowing ordeal and asks her about the rise in Islamophobia.

Yes, an EV really CAN power your home – if it’s one of these [update]

Can an EV really help power your home when the power goes out? It’s one of the biggest FAQs people have about electric cars — but the answer can be a bit confusing. It’s either a yes, with a but – or a no, with an unless. To find out which EVs can offer vehicle-to-home (V2H) tech to keep the lights on or even lower your energy bills, keep on reading.

UPDATE 20MAY2026: a new Volvo, and the return of ID.BUZZ!

more…

Electrifying your fleet isn’t just about going green – it’s about staying in business

In the world of business, there are two kinds of sustainability – sustainability in the sense that we need a planet to live and breathe on, and sustainability in the sense that the business needs to stay in business. For years, EV proponents have been talking about sustainability of the first kind, but Trump’s war with Iran is proving that going electric can help with sustainability of the second kind, too.

more…

AI Monks? What's next, a Bot Mitzvah? Oh Brother

Watch now | Rachel Bloom, Ginger Minj, and director Adam Shankman of Stop! That! Train! join to answer life's great questions.

JD Vance CRASHES OUT as Trump Scandal Gets MUCH Worse

JD Vance completely melts down trying to defend Trump as the insider trading scandal spirals out of control. Jon Favreau and Tommy Vietor break down the latest.

In a first, wind and solar generated more power than gas globally in April 2026

Wind and solar just hit a major global milestone: For the first time ever, they generated more electricity than gas for the full month of April.

more…

GSA chief presses appropriators to address ‘deteriorating’ federal office space

GSA estimates half its real portfolio of buildings is in “fair” or “poor” condition, and that its chief is on alert for elevator entrapments.

Human rights complaint of racial profiling at B.C. Canadian Tire store settled

Heiltsuk Nation and two of its members have settled a human rights complaint in B.C. against Canadian Tire and Blackbird Security, stemming from an incidient of racial profiling in 2020.

Is Bari Weiss Getting Demoted?

Rumors swirl that the CBS News editor-in-chief’s role may be scaled back. Plus, Fox’s coverage of the horrific San Diego mosque shooting was worse than you could have imagined.

Appeals court eases disability retirement rules for feds

An appeals court recently ruled that federal employees’ disability retirement benefits cannot be denied solely based on a lack of “objective” medical evidence.

Rising ACA premiums, falling enrollment: It's a vicious cycle

Affordable Care Act premiums are higher this year, after Congress declined to renew subsidies for the health insurance program. As a result, about a million fewer Americans enrolled for 2026 and even more are slated to drop by the year’s end. In this episode, why falling enrollment will raise premiums further. Plus: Bond yields hit record highs around the globe, businesses start to see tariff refunds ahead of schedule, and utility rates are about to get worse.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Air Force could save millions by reducing PCS moves, but culture could complicate reform

The Air Force would need to make “overarching, large-scale changes” to its assignment policy if it wants to generate significant cost savings.

These RFPs show acquisition reform is more than just policy

Three agencies are turning OMB’s acquisition and consolidation policies into action by implementing these new approaches into solicitations

Elon Musk's SpaceX IPO plans reveal blockbuster spending on rockets and AI

The company is on track to pull off the largest IPO in history — making CEO Elon Musk even wealthier.

The Chevy Equinox EV gains a few extras for 2027, including one that drivers will appreciate

Although the new Bolt is now on sale, GM is still calling the electric Chevy Equinox “America’s most affordable 315+ mile range EV.” For the 2027 model year, GM is addressing at least one of the biggest complaints with the current model.

more…

Appeals court judges appear to be divided over Pentagon’s legal dispute with AI company Anthropic

The AI technology company claims Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unlawfully and falsely branded it as a national security risk.

Psychedelics Policy Is Changing. Now What?

Some federal and state leaders are rethinking psychedelics. RAND's Beau Kilmer breaks down what we know—and don't know—about psychedelics in America.

What A Day: Trump's YOLO Battle

Trump is doing whatever he wants — without thinking about the consequences.

Operationalizing the National Cyber Strategy

The strategy is a strong foundation. The harder question is what comes next.

Now Bojangles wants EV drivers to fast charge while they eat

Southern fast-food chain Bojangles is getting into EV charging, debuting its first DC fast-charging station in Savannah, Georgia.

more…

Privileged access management: Imperative to defense modernization

As modernization initiatives expand system complexity and connectivity, ensuring identity and access controls keep pace will be essential.

Some of the biggest cyber risks to the military don’t start inside government networks

"We are eager to extend this partnership out across the defense industrial base to the maximum extent possible," said Terry Kalka.

BYD is struggling to meet demand for new fast-charging EVs as orders reach 100K, 60K

BYD’s new flagship electric SUV, equipped with its new Blade Battery 2.0 and Flash Charging tech, has received over 100,000 orders. The new Song Ultra EV secured over 61,000. BYD said it can’t keep up with demand.

more…

Risk & Compliance Exchange 2026: DIBCAC’s Nick DelRosso on evolving role of CMMC assessments

The role of the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center, or DIBCAC, is changing as the CMMC requirements ramp up.

Risk & Compliance Exchange 2026: FedRAMP’s Nicole Thompson on clearing up authorization confusion

FedRAMP certification is replacing FedRAMP authorization to describe cloud services that have met the requirements but don’t yet have an agency sponsor.

Risk & Compliance Exchange 2026: NIST’s Bill Newhouse, John Hopkins APL’s Prathibha Rama on prepping for PQC world

NIST, Johns Hopkins APL experts outline why post‑quantum cryptography requires early inventory, crypto agility and a systems‑level migration strategy.

Trump Trips Up Trump

The continuing negative fallout from Trump’s crusades against his own party’s incumbents

The post Trump Trips Up Trump appeared first on The American Prospect.

Senate Committee passes reconciliation bill to fund ICE and CBP

The reconciliation bill comes after Congress shut down the Department of Homeland Security for a record-breaking 76 days earlier this year.

A new NPR podcast dares to ask ‘Are We Doomed?’

Creator Ben Bradford says the show can interrogate the “growing feeling across society that things are falling apart and are less good than they used to be.”

The post A new NPR podcast dares to ask ‘Are We Doomed?’ appeared first on Current.

Community Solar Tracker

Explore the latest quarterly update on community solar capacity.

Juiced Scrambler moto-style e-bikes + $245 launch bundles from $1,699, Lectric XPress2 e-bikes + $336 launch bundles $1,399, more

Our mid-week Green Deals are headlined by some very exciting deals from two of our favorite EV brands, with the first being Juiced Bikes’ rebirth, which is giving us launch deals on the Scrambler Moto-Style Hardtail + Full Suspension e-bikes with $245 FREE gear bundles starting from $1,699. Next, Lectric has launched its newest XPress2 Long-Range Cruiser + Commuter e-bikes with $336 FREE gear bundles at $1,399. From there, we have a 48-hour EcoFlow flash sale offering the 1,024Wh DELTA 3 Plus Portable Power Station with 2x 220W solar panels for an $899 low (alongside three other offers), as well as Baseus’ X1 Pro Dual-Tracking Wireless Outdoor Solar Security Camera – with or without a 32GB microSD card – at lows starting from $150, Jackery’s newest Explorer 1500 Ultra 1,536Wh power station back at its lowest price, a collection of Camplux 8kW to 27kW tankless electric water heater deals, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s exclusive $3,997 savings on the bundled 12,288Wh EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra X Power Station + Smart Home Panel 3 to a new low, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

Audi says this affordable luxury EV will ‘rejuvenate’ the brand [Video]

Audi is looking to bring down the barriers to owning a luxury EV. The A2 e-tron will ‘rejuvenate” the luxury brand, Audi promised after previewing the entry-level EV ahead of its upcoming debut.

more…

With viral ‘Lego’ videos, Iran stakes claim as a propaganda power player

Iran’s viral social media campaign has been slick, savvy, and accessible to a Western audience. It seems to have caught the U.S. completely off guard.

Tesla can’t seem to figure out the power of its new cheap Model 3

Tesla has changed the 0-100 km/h acceleration spec on its new $39,490 CAD Model 3 Premium RWD in Canada for a second in less than three weeks. The car now lists a 6.2-second sprint — two full seconds slower than the 4.2 seconds Tesla advertised at launch on May 1.

The repeated spec changes on the Shanghai-built sedan — from 4.2s to 5.2s and now 6.2s — are raising legitimate consumer concerns.

more…

Getting the rules right early can shape both safety and growth of emerging technologies

"Science is a major driver of the American economy and obviously brings lots of cool things to us as consumers and American citizens," said Dr. Sterling Thomas.

Solar Plus Suds Builds Self-Reliance — Episode 271 of Local Energy Rules

A solar-powered laundromat is changing daily life on the Pine Ridge reservation.

When Giant ISPs Get Bigger, State Commissions Fight Back – Episode 8 of Unbuffered

A conversation about competition, mergers, and how to make sure the lowest-income households have access to an Internet connection

The administration is leaning on the Defense Production Act to shape supply chains through federal support, not mandates

"The determinations are a significant signal of federal intent in this area. But like I said, they're not self-executing," said Scott Johnson.

The vital voice of Congress in launching war

Presidents from both political parties have long skirted congressional approval for acts of war. Beyond partisanship, current votes on war powers resolutions signal constitutional democracy in action.

BYD Song Ultra EV conquers an over 2,700-mile trip with its new battery and 5-min charging

To show what its new Blade Battery and 5-minute Flash Charging tech is capable of, BYD went where no EV has gone before. The new Song Ultra EV, equipped with the new tech, drove over 2,700 miles (4,395 km) across China’s largest expressway, becoming the first to complete the full trip.

more…

Risk & Compliance Exchange 2026: HCLSoftware’s Stephen Hunt on long-term strategy for post-quantum cryptography

Agencies have begun inventorying systems for PQC vulnerabilities. HCLSoftware CTO says next step is to build a “continuous cycle” of cryptographic agility.

Why you should care about the global bond sell-off

Investors have been souring on bonds. To entice them back, bond yields have been rising. The yield on the 30-year bond yesterday hit 5.2%, the highest rate since 2007; 10-year yields are about as high as they've been in more than a year. Many people have exposure to bonds in their retirement accounts. Bond yields also impact the rates on mortgages and business loans. We'll explain. Then, Google's search revenue remains strong — thanks in large part to AI.

The 9 Most Insane Things About Trump's $1.8 Billion Slush Fund

A constitutional law professor breaks down the illegality and absurdity of a corrupt president's settlement with... himself.

Can Argentina’s social solidarity endure despite historic labor law overhaul?

Argentina’s overhauled labor law is meant to modernize the workforce and loosen the grip of historically powerful unions. But in an administration focused on cost-cutting, some workers find the legislation one shock too many.

Jeep’s next SUV may take cues from the Range Rover

Jeep’s next vehicle may look a little like the Range Rover or Defender, or vice versa. Jeep and Ram’s parent company, Stellantis, announced a new alliance with Jaguar Land Rover to shake things up in the US.

more…

Tesla launches FSD in second European country

Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” (Supervised) driver assistance software is now rolling out in Lithuania, making it the second European country to allow the system on public roads.

The Lithuanian Transport Safety Administration confirmed it has recognized the Dutch RDW certification that first approved FSD in Europe last month.

more…

End of Stephen Colbert’s show illustrates risks of stirring a polarized nation to laughter

The demise of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” raises questions of whether humor can bring together a polarized nation.

Americans can now use healthcare funds to buy e-bikes at a huge discount

For many Americans, the idea of buying an electric bike with healthcare funds probably sounds somewhere between confusing and too good to be true.

But increasingly, that’s becoming a real option.

more…

Tesla (TSLA) officially abandons India factory after years of broken promises

Tesla has officially confirmed it will not build a manufacturing facility in India, ending nearly a decade of negotiations, false starts, and broken promises with the Indian government.

India’s Minister of Heavy Industries H.D. Kumaraswamy confirmed the decision on May 19, putting a definitive end to one of the longest-running will-they-won’t-they sagas in the global EV industry.

more…

A longer — and more expensive — fire season

The number of hot, dry, windy days is increasing, setting the stage for fires. Wildfire season is off to an awful start. In March, Nebraska had its largest wildfire in state history. Right now, a fire outside of LA is forcing evacuations. While the federal government spends about $3 billion on wildfire suppression each year, most of that is being spent, and states are having to fill the gaps. Also: why Google is "leading the way" in the AI race.

First Draft: Trump and AIPAC Take Out Thomas Massie

The Republican who championed the Epstein files release and opposed Israel is toast, the president's latest revenge victim in an insanely expensive race. In DC, another Trump tax bombshell explodes.

Einride L4 autonomous electric semi truck gets real – in Ohio

After a successful pilot in Europe, Swedish AI logistics firm Einride is deploying its SAE Level 4 autonomous electric semi trucks in the US, connecting EASE Logistics warehouses in Marysville, Ohio as part of the DriveOhio Truck Automation Corridor Project.

more…

What we learned from the Canvas hack

Earlier this month, a group called ShinyHunters took responsibility for a hack on the education platform Canvas, which is used for coursework at colleges. In a letter posted online, the group threatened to leak data it took from the platform, including billions of private messages between students and teachers. Canvas was also temporarily unavailable, disrupting students’ ability to do their work.

Then, last week, Instructure, which makes Canvas, said it had reached a deal with the hackers, that the data had been returned and all copies destroyed. Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes asked Rachel Tobac, CEO at Social Proof Security, what we know about the deal.

Is Trump Planning to Invade Cuba?

Watch now | Tommy and Ben dig into a week dominated by ominous signs of regime change...

Elon Musk’s Plan to Make You Invest in SpaceX

He’s got his eye on your retirement savings and his net worth.

The post Elon Musk’s Plan to Make You Invest in SpaceX appeared first on The American Prospect.

Can You Support Medicare for All and Take Money From Big Pharma?

Diana DeGette, a longtime Colorado congressional incumbent, has received half a million in donations from pharmaceutical company PACs.

The post Can You Support Medicare for All and Take Money From Big Pharma? appeared first on The American Prospect.

Trump Moves to Hide Immigrant Detention Conditions as Prisoners Describe ‘Torture’

The administration is eroding the last line of oversight for immigration detention as it spends $1.3 billion on renovating a pair of warehouses to imprison even more immigrants.

The post Trump Moves to Hide Immigrant Detention Conditions as Prisoners Describe ‘Torture’ appeared first on The American Prospect.

Trump extends his grip on GOP in defeat of Kentucky’s Massie

As an outspoken critic of President Trump, Thomas Massie faced a closely watched primary contest – and has lost his seat to Trump-backed challenger Ed Gallrein. It’s the latest in a string of election results showing the president’s hold on the Republican Party.

Iran war opened doors for drone-savvy Ukraine. Zelenskyy is seizing the moment.

Ukraine has turned its advances in drone technology into a diplomatic asset. Not so long ago, President Zelenskyy visited foreign capitals to beg for assistance. Now, he seals deals for drone sales and tech-sharing – as a desirable security partner.

IEA: Global EV sales headed for another record year despite the early stumble

According to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) new Global EV Outlook, electric car sales are expected to hit 23 million in 2026, making up nearly 30% of all new cars sold worldwide. That comes after EV sales topped 20 million in 2025, up 20% year over year, with 1 in 4 new cars sold globally now electric.

more…

World premiere: The most powerful Mercedes AMG ever is electric

We’re in LA for the world premiere of Mercedes’ upcoming ultra-high performance EV, the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, with race-ready features and more power than any Mercedes ever released… along with silly fake V8 noises (but at least you can turn them off).

( Update: We got a test ride! Scroll to the bottom of the post)

more…

American energy sector to invest $100B in battery storage by 2030 [update]

Last year, the smart money had the American energy sector investing a cool $100 billion (with a “b”) in battery storage for sustainable energy. Today, those batteries aren’t just supporting wind and solar, they’re propping up AI data centers – and the investments are just getting bigger.

more…

BREAKING: Thomas Massie Loses Primary in Big Win for Trump and AIPAC

Tuesday's race in Kentucky was the most expensive primary ever, after pro-Israel donors poured in millions to unseat the right-wing Trump critic.

The 7 Most Islamophobic Things That Republicans Have Said Just This Year Alone

In the wake of a horrific shooting at a San Diego mosque, we take a look back at the GOP’s most bigoted rhetoric of 2026–so far.

Amid staffing cuts, IRS sees overtime hours spike and digitization efforts ‘fall short’

A TIGTA report found about 300 IRS employees claimed to work more than 12 hours in a day, and 14 employees reported working more than 20 hours in a day.

What happens if the Fed goes mum

The era of frequent public speeches given by Federal Reserve officials on monetary policy may be over. Incoming Fed Chair Kevin Warsh has expressed a desire to reform the central bank’s robust communication style, which has been the norm since the 1990s. In this episode, what do we stand to lose if the Fed zips its lips? Plus: Retailers weigh passing higher costs onto cash-strapped consumers, stateside EV sales don’t keep up with European surge, and cities make an economic case for planting more trees.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Trump administration’s RIF overhauls ‘troubling’ to former MSPB officials

Trump administration officials said moving jurisdiction away from MSPB and giving OPM the power to decide employee appeals will speed up RIFs and reduce costs.

Elon promises FSD by year’s end, but Einride has L4 autonomy for big trucks TODAY

It’s a question of who is actually delivering product and who is just delivering promises on today’s delivery-heavy episode of Quick Charge! Is the tenth time a charm for Elon’s FSD, or will Einride CEO Roozbeh Charli steal his self-driving thunder?

more…

Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation says 62 potential unmarked graves found on northern Alberta reserve

The Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, in conjunction with the University of Alberta, announced Tuesday it has identified 62 potential unmarked graves after a two-year search of the reserve in northern Alberta.

Volvo’s new EV costs the same to lease as a Tesla Model Y Premium, but here’s the catch

Volvo’s new “game-changing” midsize electric SUV, the 2027 EX60, is now on sale, but is it worth it to lease?

more…

What A Day: Todd One Out

Even Republicans are wary of Donald Trump’s ‘weaponization’ fund.

Five ways contractors can turn a growing compliance burden into a competitive advantage with AI

What was once a back-office function is now directly impacting how firms win work, deliver programs and withstand audit scrutiny.

Senate lawmakers renew military right to repair push

Two lawmakers are urging Congress to pass the Warrior Right to Repair Act through the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act.

ChargePoint is bringing 2,500 EV charging ports to apartments

Apartment and condo residents are still one of the biggest missing pieces in the US EV charging buildout, and ChargePoint says it will work with OBE Power to help close that gap.

more…

Goyim on the Grass, Alas

The idolatry of the Christian nationalist Mall meetup

The post Goyim on the Grass, Alas appeared first on The American Prospect.

Donald Trump’s War Crimes Game Show

The U.S. president keeps treating his regional bloodbath like it’s episodic reality TV – as Trump administration lawyers insist his planned criminality is, uh, legal.

The quiet revolution in federal payment integrity

Linda Miller, a former deputy executive director of the PRAC, says the Bureau of Fiscal Service’s tools are driving success in the anti-fraud effort.

Federal contractors are doing more than delivering programs

"Contractors are very much on the front line... because they are able to develop the technology that actually helps people and saves lives," said Jim Carroll.

Tesla Cybertruck owner believed Elon Musk when he said it could cross a lake — now he’s in jail

A Tesla Cybertruck owner drove his electric pickup truck into Grapevine Lake in Texas to test the vehicle’s “Wade Mode” feature. The Cybertruck became disabled in the water and the driver was arrested.

The incident is the latest in a growing list of Cybertruck owners taking Elon Musk’s claims about the vehicle’s water capabilities too seriously — and paying the price for it.

more…

This 100% electric flying car that jumped over a Tesla Cybertruck is coming soon

California-based startup Alef Aeronautics claims it’s the world’s first real electric flying car. After completing over 1,000 flights, including hopping over a Tesla Cybertruck, Alef is preparing to begin customer deliveries later this year.

more…

Challenging a GAO protest stay override may be getting clearer — but not any easier

"The federal circuit is very clear. You can just ask for a declaratory judgment. It will make your job easier," said Zach Prince.

Exclusive $3,997 savings on EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra X power station + Smart Home Panel 3 bundle, Jackery Memorial Day Sale, more

Leading our Tuesday Green Deals is an exclusive $3,997 price cut for our readers on the bundled 12,288Wh EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra X Portable Power Station with a Smart Home Panel 3 at a new $9,899 low. Right behind that we also have Jackery’s Memorial Day Sale with up to $2,400 power station discounts alongside bonus 5% and 7% savings on orders over $1,500, with offers like the 5,040Wh Explorer 5000 Plus Portable Power Station down at its second-lowest price of $2,696, among others. There’s also Hiboy’s Memorial Day Sale with up to 53% e-scooter and e-bike discounts starting from $300, as well as the Govee Matter Outdoor Lamp Post for $260, a 40V Greenworks hedge trimmer at its yearly low, a new low on EGO’s 10-inch cordless oscillating misting fan, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s first discount on the new Aventon Current ADV electric mountain bike ($600 off), the EcoFlow RV Season Sale with up to 61% power station savings, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

As international graduate student enrollment falls, US schools scramble to fill the hole

Enrollment of graduate students from abroad is plunging at U.S. schools, leaving them with gaping holes in their budgets.

First Trump, now Putin: Beijing receives Russian leader to bolster ‘partnership’

By visiting Beijing, Vladimir Putin is trying to bolster relations between Russia and China – and to limit their vulnerability to U.S. adventurism.

The Billionaire Plot to Destroy a Billionaire Mascot

Still doubt the reality of MAGA’s civil war? Behold the $35 million oligarch campaign to destroy Thomas Massie.

The post The Billionaire Plot to Destroy a Billionaire Mascot appeared first on The American Prospect.

Growth across federal contractors is showing up alongside new pressure on margins, controls and visibility

"Compliance becomes really a way for companies to differentiate themselves versus the field of others who haven't invested in that," said Kevin Plexico.

Harley-Davidson’s electric motorcycle spinoff LiveWire just entered the dirt bike market

There’s a new player entering the electric dirt bike market, though the name behind it will already be familiar to many riders. LiveWire, the electric motorcycle brand originally launched by Harley-Davidson, announced today that it has acquired the assets of electric off-road startup Dust Moto.

The move marks LiveWire’s first major acquisition and signals a significant expansion beyond its current lineup of street-focused electric motorcycles.

more…

Jeep maker reveals plans for a new ‘groundbreaking’ EV that will start at under $18,000

Jeep’s parent company, Stellantis, announced plans to launch a “groundbreaking” small and affordable electric vehicle that will reportedly start at under $18,000.

more…

A welcome spotlight on China’s Christians

The possibility that a prominent pastor might be released from detention – which was indicated at last week’s U.S.-China summit – has put a new focus on why Christianity endures in China.

U.S. Postal Service could offer more government services, IG says

The OIG said USPS can look to other countries, like Australia and France, that have successfully developed similar initiatives.

Exclusive: Tesla (TSLA) is building its giant solar panel factory in Houston

Electrek has learned that Tesla (TSLA) is building its massive new solar panel manufacturing operation at its facility in Brookshire, Texas, near Houston. The factory will be co-located with the Megapack Megafactory Tesla is already constructing at the same site.

A source familiar with the plans pointed us to the Houston location, and Electrek was able to independently confirm it. This is the first concrete sign of where Tesla plans to build toward its 100 GW annual solar manufacturing target.

more…

Why Do Trump Supporters Continue to Stand By This Lawless, Lying President? This Psychologist Explains

Mehdi and Dr. Cindy Harmon-Jones discuss her new study about the cognitive dissonance of Trump supporters, and what it would take for them to abandon the MAGA cult.

Should home insurance companies be making this much money?

If you’re a homeowner — this is no surprise to you — property insurance can be expensive. It seems to get more and more pricey each year. Some might blame climate change or natural disasters, but if you look under the hood of the $1 trillion in premium payments last year, the numbers might tell a different story. We'll unpack. But first, we'll discuss and preview earnings for some of America's largest retailers.

Volvo is bringing a new EV to the US to replace the $35,000 EX30

The EX30 was set to arrive as one of the most affordable EVs in the US, starting at around $35,000. While the compact SUV is being discontinued from Volvo’s US lineup, the company confirmed a new entry-level model will replace it.

more…

The Policies Communities Need to Confront the AI Data Center Race

Communities can assert their power against the big tech monopolies driving the harmful expansion of massive data centers.

Indiana Public Media cuts staff

The reduction affected the station's marketing, engineering and television production departments.

The post Indiana Public Media cuts staff appeared first on Current.

Subaru indefinitely postpones in-house EVs after profits plunge 90%

Subaru has dropped 2028 as the target year for launching its own in-house developed electric vehicles, with no new timeline set. The Japanese automaker’s new EV factory will produce gas and hybrid models instead.

The decision comes after Subaru’s operating profits collapsed 90% for the fiscal year, with tariffs alone costing the company roughly ¥229 billion ($1.4 billion) and EV-related write-downs adding another $385 million in losses.

more…

‘The first ray of light’: Illuminating a path for Pakistan’s out-of-school children

Pehli Kiran, a nonprofit, operates schools with mobile infrastructure and tailored lesson plans.

Understanding Trump's new "Anti-Weaponization Fund"

President Donald Trump has dropped his lawsuit against the IRS over the leak of his tax returns in exchange for the creation of a new $1.8 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund,” which will compensate people who have been investigated or targeted for “political, personal, or ideological reasons.” We'll dig into the highly controversial fund. Also on the show: home sellers stay on the sidelines, and a pro dumpster diver finds gems amid dorm moveouts.

Lectric XPress2 e-bike launched with major upgrades to a low-cost classic

Lectric eBikes has officially launched the new XPress2, a significantly updated version of its commuter-focused electric bike that adds a long list of premium upgrades while still aiming squarely at the value-focused market the company has become famous for.

more…

First Draft: Islamophobes Can't Shut Up Even as Muslims Are Murdered at a California Mosque

Three people were shot dead at the Islamic Center of San Diego, amid rising GOP anti-Muslim invective that has been left largely unchecked by the mainstream media, top Democrats, and society at large.

The Bruised Hand in the Cookie Jar

Watch now | Trump’s DOJ launches a $1.7 billion fund to make payments to his allies, as Democrats revive the debate about whether to make Trump’s declining fitness a campaign issue.

The missing men of the American marriage market

A new study suggests the growing educational and economic divide between men and women is reshaping marriage and family life in America — leaving many women with a shrinking pool of economically stable partners.

DJI’s e-bike division tries to defend why its motors are so insanely powerful

DJI’s Avinox e-bike drive system has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in the high-performance electric mountain bike industry, largely because of one headline-grabbing fact: the thing is absurdly powerful.

Now the company is trying to explain why.

more…

Study finds AI is making the internet more artificially happy

As of mid-2025, about a third of newly published websites were generated by artificial intelligence. That’s a massive increase from just three years before when the number hovered around zero.

The AI written text provides fewer diverse viewpoints and is generally presented in a cheerful manner. That's all according to an early study out last month.

Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with one of the study’s authors, Stanford University researcher Maty Bohacek, about how AI is changing the nature of the internet.

The Mifepristone Wars—and What They Mean for Black Women

Still concentrated in Southern states that ban abortion, Black women disproportionately rely on telehealth, which the Supreme Court has allowed—provisionally—to continue.

The post The Mifepristone Wars—and What They Mean for Black Women appeared first on The American Prospect.

Bending the Knee to Trump

If Colorado’s Gov. Jared Polis commuted the sentence of election thief Tina Peters in hope of appeasing Trump and getting funding restored, he may wait a long time.

The post Bending the Knee to Trump appeared first on The American Prospect.

'Good to be back': Sixties Scoop survivor raised in U.S. reunites with siblings in Winnipeg

Siblings separated in the Sixties Scoop have reunited after one of them — raised in the U.S. knowing nothing about her family — returned to Manitoba.

Xiaomi’s upcoming YU7 GT just beat every SUV ever around Nürburgring

Xiaomi, a company that makes smartphones and other consumer electronics, sent its second EV around the famously difficult Nürburgring racetrack, and once again set a record with it, beating every other SUV, gas or electric.

( Update: Since this article was poasted, Xiaomi released another even faster lap)

more…

Honda and LG team up to accelerate battery-swapping electric motorcycles

Honda and LG Energy Solution are joining forces in Vietnam to expand battery-swapping electric motorcycles, with a new pilot project launching in Hanoi later this year.

more…

College move-outs fill curbs with cast-off stuff. This group reduces the waste.

College move-outs have increasingly become a dumpster drama, as students pile furniture, decor, and other goods on sidewalks. Alex Freid is promoting a different path.

Are we not alone? Declassified UFO files reopen debate on government transparency.

President Trump has released 161 UFO files to the public, citing the need for transparency. But critics view the release as a play to a conspiracy-curious base.

Why the two Koreas may be giving up on reunification

The government in North Korea has abandoned its official goal of unification with South Korea. Now, the leadership in South Korea has to figure out if it will do the same.

Scott Jennings, the Most Annoying Man on Cable News

Speaking to insiders, Justin Baragona looks at how Scott Jennings evolved from his 'aw shucks' Bush-era conservatism to WWE-style pugilism, and what his recent profane on-air outburst says about CNN.

Federal appeals court keeps union contract for 300K VA employees in place amid lawsuit

This legal battle focuses on a March 2025 executive order that eliminated collective bargaining at more than 20 agencies — including the VA.

Naval Postgraduate School, private sector partner to improve AI education

The Naval Postgraduate School launched a new Master of Science in AI degree program with 20 sailors and marines from the Naval Information Forces command.

Pentagon begins sweeping review of military legal system

"Reviewing the military legal system is not a problem, reviewing it inside the building without independent structure is structural concern," Ira Rushing said.

Pentagon begins sweeping review of military legal system

"Reviewing the military legal system is not a problem, reviewing it inside the building without independent structure is structural concern," Ira Rushing said.

AI chips away at cybersecurity job opportunities

Cybersecurity was once the focus of a huge workforce development push. Job opportunities and training programs were abundant. But as artificial intelligence makes it easier for hackers to pull off sophisticated cyber crimes, it’s also replaced entry-level cybersecurity roles. In this episode, one corner of the AI-affected job market. Plus: What retail earnings could reveal about consumer spending, how homebuilders are feeling, and how the U.S. dollar became dominant.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Fleets are moving fast to electrify as homeowners race to get 30% solar credit

In this long overdue episode of Quick Charge, the commercial trucking and logistics space is racing to electrify in the face of an ongoing oil crunch while homeowners race to claim the 30% solar tax credit by July 4th!

more…

IONNA slashes DC fast charging price 48% for Memorial Day

IONNA is dropping the cost of DC fast charging by 48% for Memorial Day, just in time for road trips and long weekend getaways. Here’s the lowdown.

more…

EEOC orders compensation for feds denied religious exemptions to COVID-19 vaccine

A new appellate decision from EEOC ordered a reversal of the denied religious exemptions, compensation for the affected employees and a new investigation.

BYD is driving the Song Ultra EV over 2,700 miles to prove its new battery and 5-min charging

BYD is going where no EV has gone before to put its new Blade Battery and 5-minute Flash Charging tech to the test. The new Song Ultra EV, equipped with the new tech, will drive over 2,700 miles (4,395 km) across China’s largest expressway, becoming the first to complete the full trip.

more…

NPR turns to buyout program amid revenue decline

CEO Katherine Maher also announced a newsroom reorganization and leadership changes.

The post NPR turns to buyout program amid revenue decline appeared first on Current.

Costco has a new stackable discount on the 2027 Chevy Bolt

Costco Auto Program is back with an exclusive incentive for members on the newly revived 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV.

more…

The unfinished weapon: Why America’s push for speed in defense acquisition could still field systems that can’t survive the fight

In competition with sophisticated adversaries, the decisive question will not be who fields first. It will be who adapts faster.

What A Day: Kentucky Fried Primary

Donald Trump remains laser-focused on ousting Thomas Massie.

Volvo reveals EX60 prices start at under $60,000 with over 300 miles of range

The EX60 can drive further (up to 400 miles), charge faster, and is more advanced than any fully electric Volvo to date. Volvo announced the “game-changing” 2027 EX60 is more affordable than most luxury rivals, with prices starting at under $60,000.

more…

HHS sends RIF notices to dozens of staff it missed during office-wide layoffs last year

Meanwhile, HHS is looking to convert hundreds of senior positions to a rebranded version of the "Schedule F" classification for federal employees.

This Ex-MAGA Influencer Was Offered the 'GDP of a Small Nation’ to Keep MAGA's Secrets. She Spills All With Mehdi

Ashley St. Clair was a MAGA influencer for nearly a decade - but now she's revealing the secret, White House-coordinated group chats. Oh, and she's also the mother of Elon Musk's child.

Tesla Model Y becomes Colombia’s top-selling car amid 304% EV surge

Tesla’s Model Y became the best-selling vehicle in Colombia in March 2026 with 1,791 units delivered — just two months after the automaker’s first deliveries in the country.

The achievement is part of an explosive EV market transformation in Colombia, where electric vehicle registrations surged 304% in April to 5,192 units. But Tesla is already running into trouble with Colombian regulators over delivery delays and misleading claims about its Supercharger network.

more…

Retirement: Advice from a year in

Treat retirement not as the end of all things, but as a new beginning. Even if you still have work to do.

BMW has a plan to ‘keep the brand young’ — A cheaper EV

BMW wants to stay relevant, and an electric 1 Series may do the trick. The 1 Series will return as an affordable EV to attract young buyers.

more…

A tied vote, a stalled reconciliation package, and big questions about how laws actually get finished

"I think many lawmakers are just glad that the trip did not cause, frankly, any additional problems between [the U.S. and China]," Mitchell Miller said.

A Turn to the Left in Britain?

Even if progressive Andy Burnham becomes the next British prime minister, will global hyper-capitalism allow him to succeed?

The post A Turn to the Left in Britain? appeared first on The American Prospect.

Ex-NPR colleagues team up on podcast about cannabis and aging

Independent producer Karen Michel is channeling her longtime interest into a budding podcast, Ganja Granny.

The post Ex-NPR colleagues team up on podcast about cannabis and aging appeared first on Current.

Aventon Current ADV eMTB first discount to $3,999, EcoFlow sale drops expanded 858Wh RIVER 3 Plus solar bundle to $499, more

We’ve got a bunch of fresh deals to kickstart the week with, including our surprise headliner, Aventon’s high-tier Current ADV Smart Electric Mountain Bike with first-ever discounts to $3,999. Right behind that, we have two EcoFlow sales, the first being the latest RV Season Sale with up to 61% discounts, like the expanded 858Wh RIVER 3 Plus with an EB600 extra battery and a 220W solar panel for a $499 low, among many others, as well as a 24-hour flash sale with offers including the 2,048Wh DELTA 3 Max Portable Power Station with a 500W alternator charger at its $949 2026 low. There’s also Segway’s Navimow Summer Sale with its new i2 AWD series robot lawn mowers at lows starting from $849, the best price of the last 12 months on Worx’s JawSaw cordless electric chainsaw, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals from last week at the bottom of the page, collected together in our latest Electrified Weekly roundup edition.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

The IRS’ service picture may be improving, but taxpayers are still running into real friction

"It's going to be a critical year to gather that feedback and provide a meaningful recommendation by next year on that paperless journey," Philip Hwang said.

Antisemitism? Really? The 33 Most Absurd Examples Listed in the ADL's New Database

We looked through the 6,000-plus incidents recorded in the ADL's antisemitism database and found dozens of examples that are debatable or weird, or dishonestly conflate anti-Zionism with antisemitism.

US bill proposes new national EV tax, while some push to slash gas tax to zero

Lawmakers have proposed yet another punitive tax on EVs, attempting to balance road budgets solely on the back of the ~2% of vehicles that are responsible for a vanishingly small percentage of road damage.

Meanwhile, gas taxes haven’t gone up since 1993… and some are trying to eliminate them entirely, during a global fuel shortage that EVs are the solution to.

more…

Tested by Iran war, Qatar is still faithful to its core mission: Mediation

Before the war, Qatar had built itself into a diplomatic power by mediating disputes near and far. Hit hard by Iran, the tiny Persian Gulf country is not wavering in that mission, seen as central to its identity. Still, it recognizes it has security needs, too.

Reorganization plans can look clean on paper and turn out far messier in real life

"They're moving things around on paper without recognizing the effects that may have in the communities throughout the country," Tim Whitehouse said.

Musk says Tesla unsupervised FSD will be ‘widespread’ in the US by year-end — again

Elon Musk claimed that Tesla’s unsupervised “Full Self-Driving” will be “widespread in the US by the end of this year” during a virtual appearance at the Smart Mobility Summit in Tel Aviv today. Tesla currently operates fewer than 30 unsupervised robotaxis across three Texas cities.

The claim marks the latest in a decade-long pattern of Musk promising imminent autonomous driving breakthroughs that fail to materialize on schedule.

more…

BYD delays flagship electric SUV launch as preorders surge to over 100,000

The luxury three-row electric SUV has a driving range of up to 590 miles (950 km) and can recharge in as little as 5 minutes with BYD’s new Blade Battery and Flash Charging system. In China, it starts at under $37,000, but there’s one problem — BYD can’t keep up with demand.

more…

Tax delinquency rates for federal employees and retirees are climbing

TIGTA didn’t include recommendations in its report, but said it has referred cases to IRS Criminal Investigations.

Texas Public Radio to merge operations with nonprofit San Antonio Report

The San Antonio broadcaster and the local newsroom will team up to better serve the region.

The post Texas Public Radio to merge operations with nonprofit San Antonio Report appeared first on Current.

The global prompt for a reliable AI future

The world’s two major powers, as well as private and public sector players internationally, seek cooperative approaches to harness AI’s benefits – and minimize potential misuse.

The spillover of higher energy prices

The U.S. and Iran remain far apart on a ceasefire, as President Donald Trump warns on social media that "the clock is ticking." The standoff is rattling global markets. Government bonds are rising, pushing up borrowing costs. And oil prices are moving higher this morning, as traders worry that the war in the Middle East will lead to a prolonged period of higher inflation. We'll discuss. And later: how Brazil became BYD’s biggest market outside of China.

Ford bets on 5 new vehicles, including EVs and Bronco, to spark Europe comeback

Ford will introduce five new vehicles, including an electrified Bronco and several new EVs, as part of its plans to revive the struggling brand in Europe.

more…

XPeng (XPEV) rolls first mass-produced robotaxi off the line, a China first

XPeng (NYSE: XPEV) announced today that it has rolled the first mass-produced unit of its robotaxi off the production line in Guangzhou. The milestone makes XPeng the first automaker in China to achieve mass production of a robotaxi built entirely through full-stack, in-house development.

The purpose-built vehicle, engineered to L4 autonomous driving standards, is powered by four of XPeng’s self-developed Turing AI chips delivering 3,000 TOPS of computing power — and it doesn’t use any LiDAR.

more…

Why every American family should have an e-bike at home

There’s a sentence that still sounds slightly radical in much of America, even though millions of people elsewhere in the world would barely think twice about it: Every family should own an e-bike.

Sure, not every person and not every trip. Maybe not even as a complete replacement for cars. But as a standard household tool? Absolutely!

more…

What war in the Middle East is costing you

The war in Iran has cost Americans more than $40 billion in additional fuel costs, according to an analysis from Brown University’s Watson School of International and Public Affairs. The costs go beyond just what Americans pay at the pump; higher diesel costs are factoring into rising prices for other consumer goods, too. This morning, we'll do the numbers. Plus, after a slowdown, "vertical dramas" are putting some Hollywood crews back to work.

Renowned Cree cellist and composer Cris Derksen remembered as trailblazer, innovator

Cris Derksen, 45, died in a highway crash in northern Alberta. Reports from friends and family say Derksen was fatally injured Friday driving home after attending the funeral of their father in Tallcree First Nation, near Fort Vermilion, Alta.

First Draft: Is Trump About to Attack Cuba?

Stirring echoes of Iraq and WMDs, the admin planted a media story about Cuban drones aimed at Florida. In DC, Christian nationalists flocked to the Mall. And breaking news about the Gaza aid flotilla.

Canada to share its hydropower with Northeast U.S.

Hydropower is one of the oldest forms of energy creation, and uses the flow of rushing water to create electricity. The province of Québec, Canada, has historically had an abundance of it and, later this spring, will start supplying hydropower to New York City.

This is the second big hydropower line to link Québec and the Northeast U.S. this year, after a line to Massachusetts came on board this winter.

Right now, the power is going one way, from Canada to the U.S., but some are thinking that the U.S. could eventually sell renewable wind energy back to Canada and let that country hold on to its hydropower for when it's really needed, creating a “regional battery,” says Marketplace's Henry Epp, who’s been reporting on this.

Palantir Gets an Initial $3.9 Million to Spy on Federal Workers

The contract kicks off a Trump administration plan to track workers at the Social Security Administration and Departments of Agriculture and Veterans Affairs.

The post Palantir Gets an Initial $3.9 Million to Spy on Federal Workers appeared first on The American Prospect.

Hawaii Just Found a Way to Keep Corporations Out of Politics

A new law makes clear that corporations derive their powers from states, and they don’t necessarily include the right to spend on elections.

The post Hawaii Just Found a Way to Keep Corporations Out of Politics appeared first on The American Prospect.

Comptrolling for the Public Good

New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli faces a primary challenge from two progressive candidates who say he’s been asleep at the wheel. Is it time for fresh blood?

The post Comptrolling for the Public Good appeared first on The American Prospect.

How Marco Rubio morphed his way into Trump’s inner circle

Marco Rubio has found ways to execute a Trump foreign policy that shows an evolution in his own positions. It has made him stand out among the president’s close advisers.

Which Democrats Have What It Takes to Win the White House?

Watch now | David Axelrod joins Dan to discuss the Democratic Party's best messengers and its likely 2028 contenders.

How Charlie Sykes Went From Right-Wing Commentator To a Never-Trumper Purged From Twitter

In this Substack Live, John Harwood and Charlie Sykes discuss why he left the Republican party, what it will take for the GOP to change, and getting kicked off of Elon Musk's Twitter.

Tesla increases Actually Smart Summon speed by 33% in new FSD update

Tesla is rolling out FSD V14.3.3 today, and among the changes is a 33% speed increase to Actually Smart Summon — the feature now tops out at 8 mph, up from the 6 mph cap (less impressive when you put it like that).

The speed bump is part of a broader update (software version 2026.14.6.6) that also merges the Spring 2026 software features with the FSD branch for the first time.

more…

Amazon is deploying these massive cargo e-bikes for deliveries

Amazon is officially rolling out e-cargo bike deliveries in Washington, DC, as part of a new pilot program launched in partnership with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT). The ten-month initiative, called “MicroFreight DC,” will see Amazon Delivery Service Partners making neighborhood deliveries using a fleet of battery-powered cargo bikes instead of traditional delivery vans.

more…

How a CEO and Trump donor is weaponizing tariffs against his rivals

Cambria CEO Marty Davis has successfully asked the U.S. government to put tariffs on quartz. His business competitors are crying foul.

Bill Cassidy loses Louisiana Republican primary to Fleming and Trump-backed Letlow

U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow and state Treasurer John Fleming have advanced to a runoff in Louisiana’s Republican Senate primary, defeating Sen. Bill Cassidy amid President Donald Trump’s campaign to oust him.

New testimony in Epstein case could address persistent conspiracy theories

Tova Noel, one of the prison guards who found Jeffrey Epstein deceased, is set to testify before the House Oversight Committee.

Sennebogen shows off electric, autonomous material handler

German equipment brand Sennebogen recently demonstrated a semi-autonomous material handling solution that combines an electric wheeled excavator, mobile battery, and a mobile shredder to improve throughput and efficiency in European recycling plants.

more…

Fisker went bankrupt and owners built open source car company from the ashes

When Fisker Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2024, it left roughly 11,000 Ocean SUV owners holding the keys to vehicles that cost them anywhere from $40,000 to $70,000 — and that were rapidly losing the software brains that made them work. No more over-the-air updates. No more connected services. No more warranty. The manufacturer was dead.

What happened next is one of the most remarkable stories in the history of the electric vehicle industry. Instead of accepting that their cars would become rolling paperweights, Fisker Ocean owners organized, reverse-engineered their vehicles’ proprietary software, hacked into CAN bus networks, built open-source tools on GitHub, and effectively stood up a volunteer-run open-sourced car company from the ashes of Fisker.

more…

Israeli Forces Kill More Children on Nakba Day, While Settlers Force Family to Dig Up Dead Father

Zeteo's weekly round-up of the stories you may have missed out of occupied Gaza and the West Bank, as Israel continues its genocidal war and apartheid policies.

Tesla (TSLA) raises Model Y prices by up to $1,000 — first increase in two years

Tesla has increased Model Y prices in the US by up to $1,000 across its Premium and Performance trims. It marks the first price increase on the Model Y in two years.

The move ends a prolonged period of aggressive price cuts that defined Tesla’s strategy throughout 2024 and 2025, signaling a potential shift in how the company views demand for the world’s best-selling electric vehicle.

more…

Another African country targets fossil-free electric transit by 2030

The African nation of Uganda has announced a new National E-Mobility Strategy that it hopes will energize its manufacturing sector by transitioning the country’s public transit sector fully away from fossil fuels by 2030.

more…

Trump says Islamic State group leader was killed in a joint US-Nigerian mission

President Donald Trump says U.S. and Nigerian forces carried out a mission to kill a leader of the Islamic State group. The president announced the joint operation to take out Abu-Bilal al-Mainuki in a late-night social media post Friday that offered few details.

E-quipment highlight: Milwaukee brings big electric power to any job site

Every job site needs to power to do work. Cordless hand tool brand Milwaukee knows that better than most, which is why the Big Red Truck is about to roll out with not one but two new products ready to bring big electric power to any job site.

more…

‘Mega-Bloodbath’: Trump Officials Hate His Plan to Seize Iran’s Uranium

‘We might actually be stupid enough to try it,’ one Trump administration official tells Zeteo.

Economist Mark Blyth analyses the economy and path ahead for new Federal Reserve chair

NPR's Elissa Nadworny speaks with Brown University economist Mark Blyth about the challenges facing Kevin Warsh, the new chair of the Federal Reserve.

This Candidacy Is a Test Case for AI Regulation

Why is Palantir, the former employer of congressional candidate Alex Bores, running attack ads against him...for working at Palantir? The NY Assemblymember joins to talk AI regulation.

Terminally Online: Green Eggs and Scams

Hosts Jon Favreau, Jane Coaston, Erin Ryan, and producer Claire commiserate about being way too online this week.

Under fire from Israel like never before, Lebanon’s first responders are determined to persevere

Lebanese first responders face unprecedented casualties from Israeli strikes. Carrying their colleagues’ loss, they continue with deepened resolve.

Segway’s wild new 60 MPH electric dirt bike is now officially on sale

Segway’s new Xaber 300 electric dirt bike is officially available for purchase starting today, with the company also confirming that the bike is now arriving at authorized dealers around the US.

The launch marks Segway’s latest push deeper into the electric powersports market, and the Xaber 300 is easily the company’s most serious off-road machine yet.

more…

This Week in Democracy – Week 69: Trump's $10 Billion Shakedown of the IRS, and His Plan for an Election 'Army'

Zeteo's weekly round-up, documenting the growth of authoritarianism in Trump's second term.

Xi’s Just Not That Into You

China blows smoke up Trump’s skirt, Rand Paul’s son gets hot under the collar, and Marco Rubio slips into something a little more comfortable.

What enterprise security can learn from U.S. government approaches to AI

No organization faces more or more sophisticated security attacks than the U.S. government. Rodney Alto, retired CIA, shares insight on government AI adoption.

What A Day: Lack-of-Trust Fund

The Trump administration is reportedly mulling a $1.7 billion fund to compensate the president's allies.

Giving up beer to pay for gas?

New consumer data shows alcohol sales were down over 5% in April. And, as you’ve probably noticed, gas prices were up. Is there any correlation? In this episode, why high fuel prices may exacerbate existing consumer trends — like cutting back on beer. Plus: Cerebras’ successful IPO signals hunger for AI stocks, Hollywood is buying more short stories, and we discuss the week’s economic headlines.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Grants QSMO shifting approach to meeting market demands

The Grants Quality Service Management Office is moving away from its traditional RFI approach of bringing on new vendors and instead will rely on GSA schedules.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE Bombed Iran for Totally Different Reasons

The newest divide in the Middle East is between Israel’s allies and the growing number of states that view it as a threat, former defense intel analyst Harrison Mann writes.

4 benefits bills for federal employees, retirees to watch

Potential adjustments to short-term disability insurance and credit protection for feds during government shutdowns are on the table through new legislation.

Compliance and capability: Building an AI-ready government workforce

The agencies that will continue to deliver on their mission are not necessarily the ones that move first.

FEMA leadership vacancies spark concerns ahead of hurricane season

The top position at the FEMA region overseeing the southeastern United States is among those that are vacant, weeks before Atlantic hurricane season begins.

Federal Movers & Shakers | May 15, 2026

Tracking leadership changes across the federal government

Podcast: Tesla Robotaxi, Rivian R2 configurator is live, China is taking over EU factories, and more

In the Electrek Podcast, we discuss the most popular news in the world of sustainable transport and energy. In this week’s episode, we discuss updates to Tesla Robotaxi, Rivian R2 configurator going live, China taking over EU factories, and more.

Today’s episode is sponsored by GM Energy. If you want to experience more resilience and control over your home energy, the GM Energy Home System adds stationary battery power for always-ready backup energy for your home, and the GM Energy PowerBank takes in energy from the grid and stores it for when you need it most. Learn more at gmenergy.gm.com

more…

The Army Corps of Engineers is stepping in to manage a growing environmental problem in Alaska

"It's a project that we're really perfect for addressing in coordination with our sponsors and the other agencies here," said Mike Records.

Trump’s Nothingburger Banquet in Beijing

The president comes home empty-handed from his summit with Xi Jinping.

The post Trump’s Nothingburger Banquet in Beijing appeared first on The American Prospect.

Is MTG Really Better Than AOC on Gaza? Mehdi Debunks This ‘Ludicrous’ Argument

In his latest monologue, Mehdi corrects the record on what AOC and MTG have actually said and done on Gaza, on Biden and Trump, and on Jan. 6.

Some of the most important environmental policy work doesn’t happen in legislation

"I think having that really clear framework makes it more attainable for folks to be able to do this themselves," said Mai Sistla.

Heybike Ranger 3.0 Pro e-bike + $257 FREE bundle hits $1,399 low, Tesla Universal Wall Connector $550, Anker solar security cam, more

We are ending this week’s Green Deals with a jam-packed bang, led by the weekend flash sale on Heybike’s flagship Ranger 3.0 Pro Comfort Folding Fat Tire e-bike and a FREE $257 bundle of gear at the $1,399 low for the first time since Black Friday. Right behind that, we spotted Amazon dropping the price on Tesla’s Universal Wall Connector (type J1772 + NACS) Level 2 EV Charger to $550. We also have Anker’s eufy SoloCam S220 Solar Security Camera + multi-packs starting from $60, as well as the two-pack of Eve Aqua Apple Home Smart Water Controllers hitting a new $190 low – plus, even more lows on Bluetti’s 3,840Wh Elite 400 power station, Velotric’s Memorial Day e-bike sale, a new Greenworks 60V 8-inch electric edger low, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s 5,120Wh expanded EcoFlow DELTA 3 Ultra Plus power station flash offer that ends tonight, the three continuing ENGWE e-bike lows from $949, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

April CDP Index: Radio experiences first decline in new donors since rescission

Though all other Index metrics continued to see growth in the first quarter of 2026, new donors for radio declined by almost 6% from the same period last year.

The post April CDP Index: Radio experiences first decline in new donors since rescission appeared first on Current.

Beyond the pomp and pageantry, Xi Jinping sent a message to Donald Trump

The highly anticipated summit in Beijing showcased how China today is more willing than ever to directly challenge the United States.

Senators approve resolution withholding their paychecks during future shutdowns

The Senate resolution will take effect after the general election on Nov. 3.

3 regional Indigenous tourism boards separate from ITAC amid ongoing financial concerns

Three Indigenous tourism organizations say they are withdrawing support from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada over concerns about "financial mismanagement and lack of transparency in fund allocation" over several years.

BMW is offering a 20% discount on EV charging at IONNA through September

Through its new “preferred pricing program,” BMW and MINI drivers can receive a 20% discount on all EV charging sessions now through the end of September.

more…

Even Norway is facing an energy crunch. It is hunting for solutions.

Norway’s money and hydropower have insulated it from the world’s energy pressures – until now.  The way it solves these challenges could set a global example.

Testing new technology is one thing, making it work in the field and getting people to trust and use it is another

"The development and the creation of new innovations and new technologies has just been booming over the last several years," said Scott Hutchins.

Rivian opens R2 configurator: here are all the options and pricing

Rivian has opened the online configurator for the R2, its critical mid-size electric SUV, giving reservation holders their first chance to spec out the vehicle ahead of deliveries. The Performance trim starts at $57,990 — just under Tesla’s Model Y Performance at $58,880.

The configurator launch comes ahead of Rivian’s previously communicated June timeline, signaling confidence in the R2 production ramp at its Normal, Illinois factory.

more…

Comings and goings: COOs at Vermont Public, KUOW announce departures

Brendan Kinney is leaving Vermont Public to lead the nonprofit that publishes VTDigger.

The post Comings and goings: COOs at Vermont Public, KUOW announce departures appeared first on Current.

Norway’s situation is complex. That’s why it’s a good story.

On a trip to Norway, our senior global correspondent finds a complex story about energy solutions.

Mercy for good apples when they expose bad apples

Under better federal rules, firms that quickly report white-collar crime are spared prosecution, benefiting workers, shareholders, and financial markets. Honesty brings its own reward.

Volkswagen reveals the first electric GTI, a 222 hp EV hot hatch for $45,000 [Images]

The first electric GTI is finally here. Volkswagen unveiled the ID. Polo GTI, a sporty 222-horsepower EV hot hatch that will start at around $45,000.

more…

Why you won't find horse racing bets on prediction markets

Tomorrow is the Preakness Stakes, the second event in the Triple Crown. Betting on horse racing in the U.S. has declined by more than 50% over the last few decades. And while you might think platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket would see opportunity in horse racing bets, they haven't made inroads. Why don’t prediction markets have a horse on that race? We explain. And later, we'll do the numbers on defense lobbying.

Tesla finally reveals what happened in 17 ‘Robotaxi’ crashes

Tesla has quietly unredacted all 17 of its autonomous driving crash narratives filed with NHTSA, revealing for the first time what actually happened in each incident. The automaker had been the only ADS operator to fully redact its crash reports, marking every single narrative as “confidential business information.”

The data shows what we always suspected: most of Tesla’s crashes were not the fault of the autonomous system. But there are some genuinely concerning incidents buried in there.

more…

Another prime minister appears to be on his way out. Why is the UK so hard to govern?

A looming challenge from Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham appears set to topple Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Why does Britain seem no longer governable?

Uber turns on Waymo as it pours $10B+ into owning robotaxi alternatives

Uber is publicly trashing its robotaxi partner Waymo while simultaneously investing more than $10 billion to build its own autonomous vehicle fleet with Rivian, Lucid, and Nuro.

The ride-hailing giant’s executives have spent the last few months taking direct shots at Waymo’s technology and deployment strategy — even as Waymo vehicles still operate on Uber’s platform in Austin and Atlanta.

more…

Parents: if your kid wants a fast e-bike, this may be the safest compromise yet

There’s a tough conversation happening in a lot of households right now. Teenagers want cool, fast electric bikes. Parents see viral crash videos and stories about reckless riding and understandably want nothing to do with it.

And both sides kind of have a point. Group riding and hanging out with friends are an important part of today’s teenage social dynamics, but those same teens can also be a danger to themselves or others when paired with a potent combination of the wrong bike and an underdeveloped prefrontal cortex. Now though, there’s a new wave of e-bikes coming that might just make the best compromise to keep both camps happy.

more…

A surge in natural gas exports

"LNG is the next growth story of the next decade," says Kent Britton, CEO of the Port of Corpus Christi. Liquefied natural gas exports are expected to grow 30% in the U.S. in the next year and a half. That growth is driven mostly by new and expanding LNG export projects along the Gulf Coast. What does it mean for the global energy market and coastal economies? But first: inflation, imports, and U.S.-China trade deals.

From Haiti to the Arctic, May’s best reads transport

Historical anniversaries share space with satisfying mysteries and far-flung, imagination-stretching novels in our roundup of May’s best reads.

Thomas Massie is a Trump nemesis on the right. Now, he could lose his seat in Congress.

Tuesday’s GOP primary in Kentucky pits President Donald Trump’s power and the pull of party unity against an independent-minded lawmaker with deep ties to his constituents.

This transcendent Baltimore museum features works – and quirks – of art

If it’s silliness you’re after, it’s hard to beat “Fifi,” a 15-foot-tall kinetic pink poodle, and other unusual pieces at the American Visionary Art Museum.

First Draft: Trump Wants to Give $1.7 Billion of YOUR Money to HIS Pals

Mehdi on the biggest Trump corruption scandal of them all. Plus: the latest War Powers vote on Iran fails in Congress, again. And you'll never guess which Trump official went for a 'VIP snorkel.'

How Brazilian Women Turned an Ulcer Pill Into a Safe Abortion Method

This week, we’re presenting the first episode of “The Network,” a series that Latino USA co-produced with NPR’s Embedded. In...

The post How Brazilian Women Turned an Ulcer Pill Into a Safe Abortion Method appeared first on Latino USA.

‘We’re Leaving’: Choosing to Self-Deport Under Trump 2.0

Caitlin Dickerson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist at The Atlantic. She has become one of the leading voices on immigration...

The post ‘We’re Leaving’: Choosing to Self-Deport Under Trump 2.0 appeared first on Latino USA.

Meta wants AI chats to be private

This week, WhatsApp is offering private chats with its AI. Plus, Princeton will now hold supervised exams after a rise in AI-fueled cheating.

But first, Google’s self-driving car division Waymo opted to do a voluntary recall of 3,800 of its robotaxis. This comes after a Waymo drove into a flooded road in San Antonio, Texas. The car was empty and no one was hurt, but Waymo is now updating its software to address how its cars deal with flooded roads.

Will Oremus at The Atlantic joins Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes for these stories.

Check out our YouTube page to watch more episodes of “Tech Bytes.”

Trump Admits He's for He/Him, Not You

Watch now | Republicans attempt to defend President Trump's admission that he does not "think about Americans' financial situations," while his Department of Justice is on the verge of giving him billions -

CrookedCon: Friends of the Pod Presale & Discount Code for Subscribers

Jon drops the secret presale code for paid subscribers on Apple Podcasts, Supercast, YouTube, and Substack so you can grab your tickets before the general public.

Predictive service delivery: How agencies are providing a better experience for their customers

Agencies are anticipating what their customers need to provide services more effectively.

Planned Parenthood Puts Its Thumb on the Scale in California

Health care is everything in the race for CA-22, but did Planned Parenthood pick the right candidate?

The post Planned Parenthood Puts Its Thumb on the Scale in California appeared first on The American Prospect.

Aftermath: Trump Is Wrecking the U.S. Military

Not our precious troops! No! No!!

The post Aftermath: Trump Is Wrecking the U.S. Military appeared first on The American Prospect.

Gen Z homeowners? Yes, more in their 20s are managing to buy despite the odds

Gen Z homeowners now outpace millennials at the same age. They're more likely to be single and less likely to use help from parents.

While Pentagon Spends Billions on War, Military Families Say They’re Getting Shortchanged

Spouses of deployed military say they’re struggling with the costs of child care, groceries, housing.

The post While Pentagon Spends Billions on War, Military Families Say They’re Getting Shortchanged appeared first on The American Prospect.

Indigenous students transform Quebec school grounds into a living land acknowledgement

A drumbeat anchors a crowd of students on a windy day and students, dressed in colourful regalia, dance before hundreds of their peers. For the Indigenous students of Bear Lodge, this wasn't just a performance — it was a reclamation of the school grounds.

Balancing act for new Fed chair: Taming inflation amid rate-cut pressures

New Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh must navigate surging inflation, making it hard for the central bank to reduce interest rates as President Trump wishes.

‘They’ve Been Raping Palestinians Since 1948’: Israeli Lawyer From NYT Exposé Speaks to Zeteo

Marwan Barghouti’s lawyer Ben Marmarelli discusses the health of the Palestinian leader, torture in Israeli prisons, and why liberal Zionists are ‘the worst.’

Veto override to save OETA fails in Oklahoma Senate

Failing to extend the station’s expiration date means it will have to begin closing July 1. It will have a year to wind down operations.

The post Veto override to save OETA fails in Oklahoma Senate appeared first on Current.

Tesla now forces drivers to give feedback when intervening on ‘Full Self-Driving’

Tesla has quietly made it mandatory for drivers to provide feedback every time they intervene on “Full Self-Driving.” The prompt, which used to disappear on its own after a few seconds, now stays on screen indefinitely until the driver selects a reason or sends a voice note.

The change arrived with FSD v14.3.2 as part of software update 2026.2.9.9, which rolled out in late April. Tesla didn’t announce the new behavior — the company retroactively updated the release notes to mention it.

more…

AI drives new debate around CISA software patching deadlines

CISA this year has already started accelerating the deadlines for agencies to patch software bugs posted to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog.

DoD civilian workforce losses strain military installation operations

“It's a self-inflicted wound to have taken a sledgehammer to the workforce in a way that we've driven out people in these important roles," Jon Ossoff said.

Trump & Co. take a trip to China

President Trump arrived for trade talks in China this week with a gaggle of corporate CEOs in tow. One expert tells us Trump’s body language, tone, and the C-suite entourage all hint Chinese President Xi has the upper hand in any negotiations. In this episode, what we expect the two world leaders to discuss. Plus: Consumers and retailers show signs of caution, the EU rethinks fiber optic cable routes in conflict zones, and traditional TV comapnies try out AI-driven ad programming.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Army Corps of Engineers faces high attrition over plans to relocate NYC office

According to a union survey, 43% of regional employees living in New York City and Long Island would leave the Army Corps of Engineers over a longer commute.

Tesla Solar Roof is on life support as it pivot to panels

Tesla’s Solar Roof was supposed to revolutionize residential solar. Elon Musk unveiled the product in 2016 with the promise of beautiful solar tiles that would replace your entire roof — and he set a target of 1,000 new Solar Roofs per week by the end of 2019. Nearly a decade later, Tesla has installed roughly 3,000 Solar Roof systems total, stopped reporting deployment numbers, and is now quietly pivoting to conventional solar panels.

The gap between Tesla’s Solar Roof promise and reality is one of the most stark examples of unfulfilled ambitions in the company’s history — and it has left thousands of customers stuck with an expensive product that Tesla appears to have deprioritized.

more…

You can’t recruit talent into a system people don’t trust

People should believe what the structure tells them. And right now, the structure tells them to be careful.

DoD AI Acceleration Strategy marks move toward real-time insight: Here’s what agencies should do next

As the focus shifts from testing AI in research labs to real-world use, agencies must implement it responsibly through continued testing.

What A Day: Xi’s Just Not That Into You

Will Trump give China what it wants?

Volkswagen ID. Polo GTI leaks as a spicy new EV hot hatch

The ID. Polo GTI is Volkswagen’s first electric GTI. A day before its official debut, images leaked online, revealing the EV hot hatch for the first time.

more…

Volkswagen ID. Polo GTI leaks as a spicy new EV hot hatch [Images]

The ID. Polo GTI is Volkswagen’s first electric GTI. A day before its official debut, images leaked online, revealing the EV hot hatch for the first time.

more…

Pro-Palestine Artist Misan Harriman Is Not Antisemitic. It’s Dangerous to Imply He Is

Bad-faith attacks, like those currently being lobbed against Harriman, cheapen the real challenges of confronting antisemitism and ultimately make Jewish communities less safe, writes Daniel Levy.

US Border Patrol chief Michael Banks is resigning, in latest DHS leadership change

The head of U.S. Border Patrol has announced his resignation.

Roth conversions in 2026: What government employees need to know

Roth conversions get a lot of hype, but for federal employees nearing retirement, rushing could mean higher taxes and fewer options later.

What happens to the human body when missions become longer, more demanding and harder to support from Earth?

"What you will notice is when the crew are taken out of the capsule, they need some assistance walking," said Michael Schubert.

How Trump Can Actually Believe We’re in a Golden Age

Does anyone he encounters dare to dispute his delusions?

The post How Trump Can Actually Believe We’re in a Golden Age appeared first on The American Prospect.

University of Toronto revokes Buffy Sainte-Marie’s honorary degree

The University of Toronto has rescinded Buffy Sainte-Marie’s honorary degree, following a petition to revoke the honour.

XPeng in talks to buy a Volkswagen plant in Europe as exports surge 62%

XPeng (XPEV) is in talks with Volkswagen about acquiring a factory in Europe as the Chinese EV maker’s contract production in Austria runs out of capacity. The company’s exports hit a record 6,006 vehicles in April, up 62% year-over-year.

The move comes just one day after BYD revealed it is also pursuing European factory deals with Stellantis and other automakers, signaling a broader wave of Chinese automakers moving to localize production on the continent.

more…

Senators approve withholding their own pay during government shutdowns

Lawmakers said the measure, approved Thursday. would discourage future funding standoffs after a series of record-breaking shutdowns.

The Army is testing whether rail networks can carry medical evacuation in modern warfare

"Trains allow us to move large numbers of patients over long distances in a single lift," said Col. Crystal Belew.

‘Trump’s War Fever Is Back’ – and His Iran War Could Escalate Again Very Soon

Preparations for an imminent new phase of Trump’s Iran war have accelerated, Trump administration sources tell Zeteo.

Affordability crunch also spurs creativity, generosity around the globe

Consumers worldwide have felt squeezed for many reasons, including the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz. So, they’ve come up with their own solutions.

This $10,000 EV is a hit in China, and it’s offered with a semi-solid-state battery

The new MG4, the world’s first mass-produced EV with a semi-solid-state battery, has quickly become a bestseller in China, with the 100,000th model rolling off the production line in just eight months.

more…

The TikTok-ification of music marketing

Recent controversy surrounding the rock band Geese and a digital marketing firm Chaotic Good Projects has sparked debate over the tactics firms use to drum up hype for artists online. How can we tell if online hype is real or fake? And does it really matter? Trapital founder Dan Runcie joins Kimberly to break it down. Plus, a final thank you from Kimberly.

Here’s everything we talked about today:

• "Geese psyop debate: Rock band raises questions about music marketing" from Fast Company
• "Fake Fans" from Eliza McLamb
• "The Fanfare Around the Band Geese Actually Was a Psyop" from Wired
• "If Geese are a psy-op, so is everything else" from Dazed
• "Are Chaotic Good’s marketing practices bad for listeners?" From CBC Arts

“Make Me Smart” is a public media program. Show your support with a donation today and keep economic news available to everyone. Donate now: https://bit.ly/mkp_mms_pod

EcoFlow 5,120Wh expanded DELTA 3 Ultra Plus power station $1,999 2026 low, three ENGWE e-bike lows with up to $964 savings, more

Leading our Green Deals today is EcoFlow’s latest flash sale that is seeing the 5,120Wh expanded DELTA 3 Ultra Plus Power Station bundle with a DELTA 3 Max Plus Extra Battery dropping down to a $1,999 2026 low, among some additional offers. We also noticed that ENGWE is still offering similar deals on three of its e-bikes since its Anniversary Sale ended – all of them at their lowest prices – like the newest M20 3.0 Moped-Style e-bike with $114 in FREE bundled gear starting from its $1,349 low. We also have ALLPOWER’s 256Wh VOLIX Portable Power Station hitting a new $99 low, a returning low on the Gotrax R7 e-bike with up to 50 miles of travel range, a 24V 8-inch Greenworks polesaw deal, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s collection of Bluetti Elite 300 power station and bundle exclusive lows, the low prices across Beatbot’s Anniversary Robot Pool Cleaner Sale, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

State Dept directs managers to ‘revise and recalibrate’ scores for employee evaluations they’ve already submitted

Foreign Service officers warned that colleagues competing for a finite number of top scores could jeopardize the collaborative nature of diplomatic work.

House lawmakers push to bolster TSA budget

TSA officials have said allowing the agency to use all of the fee revenue would speed up airport security technology upgrades.

Following the Money on Sean Duffy’s Road Trip

Nearly a dozen companies that sponsored Duffy’s personal travel have significant business before his agency.

The post Following the Money on Sean Duffy’s Road Trip appeared first on The American Prospect.

Volkswagen brings the ID. Buzz back for 2027, but now the ID.4 is on a brief hiatus

The ID. Buzz is coming back for the 2027 model year. While the electric van is set to return, Volkswagen said the ID.4 is now going on a brief hiatus.

more…

Technology transfer is getting a credential meant to sustain expertise and credibility over time

"We need to take those inventions, those patents, that intellectual property and move it into the public sphere.," said Andy Myers.

More civility on campus – and perhaps beyond

Across the U.S., colleges and universities are recentering a core purpose of higher education: equipping young people with the civic skills of open inquiry, free speech, and mutual respect, all essential to a thriving democracy.

Open Tabs: Smartest Guy in the Room

Trump matches wits with Xi Jinping. Brace yourself.

The Media's Double Standards on Rape in the Middle East

The New York Times published a detailed accounting of rape against Palestinians. An unreliable Israeli nonprofit put out a report on sexual abuse against Israelis. And all hell broke loose.

How CEOs Use a ‘Neutral’ Legislature Group to Indoctrinate State Lawmakers

The National Conference of State Legislatures is a pay-to-play machine for business interests, critics say, not the disinterested policy organization it claims to be.

The post How CEOs Use a ‘Neutral’ Legislature Group to Indoctrinate State Lawmakers appeared first on The American Prospect.

The U.S. spending spree continues

Retail sales in April were up 0.5% compared to the month before and are up 4.9% from a year ago, according to the Census Bureau. So are retail sales higher because consumers are resilient and buying more stuff, or are we spending more just because prices are higher and the stuff we want is more expensive? We discuss. Then, in search of cleaner energy, two new power transmission lines are connecting Quebec to New York and Massachusetts.

Honda retreats to hybrids after failed EV bet triggers record $9 billion loss [Images]

Honda is waving the white flag. The Japanese automaker previewed two new hybrids set to launch by 2028 after taking an over $9 billion hit over its failed EV bet, leading to its biggest loss in company history.

more…

China wants to build its own electric K-car industry to boost EV sales

China’s top auto industry group is calling for the creation of a standardized budget electric vehicle category — modeled on Japan’s wildly popular K-car ecosystem — to revive sluggish domestic car sales and bring millions of new buyers into the EV market.

The proposal, from the head of the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), would target elderly consumers and rural markets where cheap, unregulated electric vehicles have flourished dangerously for years.

more…

Helen Barrington appointed head of North State Public Radio

Barrington previously worked in editorial leadership roles for public media organizations in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Virginia.

The post Helen Barrington appointed head of North State Public Radio appeared first on Current.

Hyundai IONIQ 9 2026 Review: The three-row EV most families have been waiting for

I drove the IONIQ 9 for more than 600 km across a mix of highway and city driving, and I enjoyed the package Hyundai has put together. The E-GMP platform, the cabin space, and the seat quality are all class-leading or close to it. A few software-layer gaps keep it from being perfect, but for a family that covers distance, the IONIQ 9 is one of the most complete three-row EVs on the market today.

Here is the full review and Electrek EV score for the Hyundai IONIQ 9 2026:

more…

This boomer rep mocked a kid about the $4 trillion in debt she saddled him with

An 82 year old Congressional representative is getting heat for an embarrassing letter she wrote to a well-meaning 10 year old constituent on the topic of electric cars and climate change, where she seems to brag about saddling his generation with debt through a recent climate rollback she voted for. And she’s up for re-election for the 12th time, by the way.

more…

How I learned to stop worrying and love pedaling my e-bike

When I first got into e-bikes, I treated them exactly as they felt at the time: tiny electric motorcycles with pedals attached. This was back around 2009 or 2010, years before the 3-class system was even a twinkle in the eye of an e-bike industry lobbyist. I had one of maybe a half-dozen e-bikes in a city of 400,000 people, and they were so new and hard to find that I had to build mine myself from mail-order parts and an old bike frame.

more…

As Trump and Xi talk business, questions about Taiwan loom

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump and a cadre of American CEOs to Beijing.

The Federal Reserve under Kevin Warsh

Kevin Warsh is officially the next chair of the Federal Reserve. The Senate voted to confirm him to a four-year term on Wednesday. He’ll replace Chair Jerome Powell, who led the central bank for the last eight years. He’ll face a challenging economic environment, worsening inflation, and pressure from President Donald Trump to cut rates. Plus, a look at how median actually rents fell in April and why one Arizona coffee roaster is unable to claim tariff refunds.

First Draft: Higher Gas Prices? Trump Doesn’t Care

The president keeps saying he’s fine with higher gas prices as a result of his war. Plus, a US judge blocks Trump’s sanctions against the UN's Francesca Albanese for investigating Israel’s war crimes.

Why audio deepfakes are so hard to spot

Voice cloning is the use of artificial intelligence to generate a clone of a real person’s voice, imitating the sound, when they pause and what words they typically emphasize. And it can be hard for people to identify voices as being AI-generated.

Research last year from UC Berkeley professor Hany Farid, an expert in digital forensics, found that people correctly identify a voice as AI-generated only 60% of the time.

Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Farid about the rapid sophistication of audio deepfakes, why it's so hard to tell the difference between a real voice and an AI-generated one right now, and some tips to help you spot voice clones.

The Candidate Pitching Single-Payer—for Disaster Insurance

In the low-profile race for California insurance commissioner, Jane Kim wants to borrow from other countries to solve a crisis in the homeowner’s insurance market.

The post The Candidate Pitching Single-Payer—for Disaster Insurance appeared first on The American Prospect.

Pollercoaster: Is It Time for Democrats to Panic?

Dan Pfeiffer digs into the wave of new legislation redrawing congressional maps, how they reshape Democrats’ chances of retaking the House and whether the party should be sounding the alarm.

The Data Centers Are Coming: Ep. 3 – Contamination Without Representation

Elon Musk's Colossus 1 data center in Memphis reflects a historical pattern of corporations siting polluting facilities in poor or Black neighborhoods.

Hepatitis A outbreak 'absolutely preventable,' Winnipeg doctor says as cases surge

A Winnipeg doctor says she's worried governments are only offering Band-Aid solutions as hepatitis A continues to spread more than a year after Manitoba declared an outbreak.

Juiced launches 60+ MPH electric dirt bike for $2,499, and the e-moto market may never be the same

Juiced Bikes is officially back – and now it’s bringing its aggressive value pricing strategy to the electric dirt bike market.

The newly revived company, now backed by the same leadership team behind Lectric eBikes, has just launched Juiced Powersports, a new expansion focused on high-performance electric off-road motorcycles. And its first model, the Juiced Nomadix, looks like it’s a shot across the bow of the Sur Ron-style market with pricing that could seriously shake things up.

Or perhaps more accurately, with these specs and pricing, it’s a shot right through the bow and out the other side.

more…

The library’s new chapter: Reimagining a role as America’s community glue

Budget cuts and declining donations post threats to America’s public libraries. Many are reinventing themselves to expand their traditional roles.

Look on Trump's works, ye Mighty, and despair!

The president makes waves with his Reflecting Pool reno, the U.S. treads water on the Iran peace process, and Trump’s crypto golden calf is more than a little fishy.

‘It’s Our Duty’ to Call Trump’s Crackdown Fascist, Says Top Election Official

Adrian Fontes is fighting an ongoing battle with the Trump admin to protect voting rights in the U.S. He joins Swin in a Zeteo Town Hall to discuss.

Former private prison executive David Venturella will become ICE’s acting leader

Venturella left the Geo Group in early 2023 and has been working at ICE leading the division that oversees detention contracts.

Another inflation alarm bell

The cost of goods for the producers of this economy was up a whopping 6% in April, according to the latest PPI. That means consumers can expect more inflation down the road. Plus: Treasury yields are creeping up, the global oil stockpile is shrinking by about 4 million barrels a day, and diesel pickup truck drivers are shelling out at the pump. In this episode, it all goes back to President Trump’s war in the Middle East.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Agriculture employees sue Rollins over ‘escalating’ religious messaging

Plaintiffs said Rollins' religious messages are “unconstitutionally coercive,” leaving USDA employees feeling “unwelcome, excluded and like outsiders.”

What A Day: The Vroom of Doom?

Senators worry that Chinese cars might take over America.

Trump’s staggering defense budget could weaken bipartisan NDAA support

"My colleagues and I are overwhelmed at the amount of money that we're being forced to authorize and appropriate," Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) said.

Israel to Bari Weiss: 'Thank You'

The CBS News editor-in-chief let Netanyahu choose who would interview him. Plus, the pro-Israel pressure campaign against the New York Times’s Nick Kristof falls flat.

If you still want that 30% solar tax credit, the new panic date is July 4

The Trump Administration’s decision to repeal of the 30% home solar tax credit in 2025 looked like the end of the road for subsidized residential rooftop solar projects, but homeowners can still get it under certain circumstances – until America’s 250th birthday, that is.

more…

Miami school board, WLRN management group settle lawsuit

Under the agreement, Tom Hudson will lead the South Florida Public Media Group as interim CEO.

The post Miami school board, WLRN management group settle lawsuit appeared first on Current.

The reality of implementing zero trust for defense operational technology

The defense industrial base ecosystem must expand its zero trust approach to ensure that all of the systems on which our warfighters depend are secure.

With 100 JCB e-machines on-hand, this UK rental fleet makes it EZ to go EV

An equipment rental company in the UK is making it easier than ever for construction and groundskeeping crews to test out electric equipment options by adding more than 100 electric machines from JCB to its Leicestershire rental fleet.

more…

Kia launches a ‘full-scale attack’ as its first EV storms into Japan’s forbidden land

Kia officially entered the forbidden land after launching its first EV in Japan. The PV5 will spearhead Kia’s “full-scale attack” on the Japanese market as it looks to take on Toyota, Honda, and Nissan on their home turf.

more…

The next phase of zero trust: From recognizing known threats to stopping threats

In an environment defined by continuous change, resilience depends not on knowing the threat, but on being able to stop it.

Trump Says He Doesn’t Think About Americans’ Financial Struggles

Trump says he doesn’t think about Americans’ financial struggles, new polls show his numbers collapsing, and FBI Director Kash Patel melts down during a brutal Senate hearing. Jon and Tommy discuss.

FDA chief’s resignation widens a leadership gap at the nation’s health department

Dr. Marty Makary's resignation from his post atop the FDA is widening a leadership gap that already existed at the Department of Health and Human Services.

Receiving federal funds now comes with a different kind of risk calculus for grantees

"It's taking what is historically a pay-and-chase system and making it more of a threshold review," said Michael Anderson.

Volkswagen is about to reveal the first electric GTI

After five decades, Volkswagen confirmed the first electric GTI, the ID. Polo GTI will make its debut on Friday, May 15.

more…

Managing disaster risk has gotten so costly it may require government help

"The goal here would be that this would be an entity that, if priced correctly, would be budget neutral," said Prof. Ben Collier.

Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as next chair of the Federal Reserve

Warsh has argued there's room for the central bank to lower interest rates, but that could be challenging at a time of rising inflation.

Rolling Back Medicare Advantage

How a group of rank-and-file retirees in Connecticut successfully organized to restore their right to traditional public Medicare

The post Rolling Back Medicare Advantage appeared first on The American Prospect.

Yellowknife council to weigh renaming main street

On Wednesday, the City of Yellowknife’s Governance and Priorities Committee expressed support for a bylaw that would change the name of the city’s main street from Franklin Avenue to Wı̀ılı̀ıdeh Avenue.

ILSR Encouraged by New York Senate Passing the Consumer Grocery Pricing Fairness Act

Senate's vote shows that lawmakers are "ready to take action to lower prices," says ILSR's Ron Knox

Trump's Counterterrorism Strategy Explicitly Targets the Left

The so-called War on Terror was always going to become a weapon for widespread domestic political repression. Now it’s official.

Bluetti 3,014Wh Elite 300 power station offers from exclusive $1,011 low, Segway F3 e-scooter + accessory credit $750, Jackery, more

Our mid-week Green Deals are jam-packed with tons of lows, some short-term promotions, exclusive savings, and more. Leading the list is Bluetti’s latest Elite 300 3,014Wh Portable Power Station and bundles at exclusive lows starting from $1,011. We also noticed Segway offering its F3 Electric Scooter with a $29.99 accessory bundle credit down at $750 for a few more days, as well as two varying exclusive deals on the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus 3,584Wh Portable Power Station with or without a 500W solar panel starting at $1,449. From there, we have a full lineup of Beatbot pool cleaner lows during the brand’s Anniversary Sale, Greenworks’ latest ultra-compact electric pressure washer at a new low, Govee Outdoor Garden Light lows, an EGO string trimmer + leaf blower bundle, Worx sawhorses, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s full lineup of Lectric Memorial Day e-bike savings, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

Toyota launches the bZ4X Touring, its most powerful non-GR vehicle with 367 miles range

The all-electric bZ4X Touring, sold as the bZ Woodland in the US, is Toyota’s most powerful vehicle without a GR badge. It’s also the fastest Toyota EV yet.

more…

Trump has been to China before. Why this visit is different.

This American president presents himself as a China hawk. But Donald Trump’s second state visit to Beijing comes at a tricky moment, with the Iran war looming large for both countries.

Can the federal grants system manage itself at its current scale?

"There are a ton of operational challenges agencies have to be mindful of, and to mitigate, as they implement the grants management process," said Jeff Arkin.

Data centers are cutting power to homes, driving homeowners to solar and batteries

A Nevada utility just told 49,000 Lake Tahoe residents that it’s redirecting 75% of their electricity supply to data centers — and they have less than a year to find a new power source. It’s one of the starkest examples yet of the AI boom’s impact on everyday Americans.

The case is extreme, but the pattern is not. Across the country, data center electricity demand is reshaping the grid, driving up rates, and pushing a growing number of homeowners toward solar and battery systems — not as complementary power, but as essential infrastructure.

more…

Jon Miskowski, PBS Wisconsin leader, dies at 65

Miskowski joined PBS Wisconsin in 1992 and was named director of television in 2015.

The post Jon Miskowski, PBS Wisconsin leader, dies at 65 appeared first on Current.

Judge overturns Elections Alberta’s approval of separation referendum petition

An Alberta Court of King’s Bench justice has quashed Elections Alberta’s approval of a petition for a referendum on Alberta independence from separatist group Stay Free Alberta.

Volkswagen delays the Golf EV again — Will we ever see it launch?

The all-electric Golf will not arrive in 2028 as expected. After another delay, here’s when you can expect to see the Volkswagen Golf EV now.

more…

Why Macron is struggling to rebuild France’s ties with Africa

France is trying to bolster its fading influence in Africa, with promises of big investment and equal partnership. But its colonial history continues to create road bumps.

DoD launches a departmentwide review of the military legal system

The announcement comes after Sec. Hegseth launched what he described as a “ruthless” review of how the military’s legal offices are organized.

Taiwan’s lesson for US-China summit

In seeking America’s help to absorb the island nation, China's leader admits that the Taiwanese are not easily influenced, perhaps because they know the source of sovereignty.

Waymo expands robotaxi coverage more than 20% — larger than Rhode Island

Waymo announced a major expansion of its autonomous robotaxi service area, growing to over 1,400 square miles across 11 US cities. That’s an estimated 27% increase from its previous coverage and more territory than the entire state of Rhode Island.

The expansion starts in Miami, with Austin, Atlanta, Houston, and the San Francisco Bay Area up next for broader coverage.

more…

LIVE Q&A TODAY: Meet the Man Fighting Trump’s War on Free Elections

4pm ET / 1pm PT: Arizona secretary of state Adrian Fontes is challenging Trump's attempts to sway the midterms. He joins Swin for a LIVE Town Hall TODAY.

Enforcement insider takes helm at ICE amid immigration controversy

ICE veteran David Venturella will lead the nation’s main immigration enforcement agency. The move could continue a pivot toward quieter, targeted enforcement to reduce public backlash against immigration policy.

BYD eyes Stellantis EU plant takeover as EV demand spikes, confirms ‘other companies too’

BYD wants to take over underutilized plants in Europe from legacy automakers to fuel its aggressive overseas expansion. Executive vice president Stella Li confirmed that BYD is holding discussions not only with Stellantis but also with “other companies too.”

more…

What does the federal gas tax go toward?

To address pain at the pump, President Donald Trump and some Congressional Republicans are floating the idea of temporarily pausing the federal gas tax. The thing is, that gas tax helps pay for the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, and more. Today, we delve into how the tax shows up in our everyday lives. Then, we head to Boston to hear how a small college there is serving low-income, first-generation students.

Federal, Manitoba governments breached First Nations' child welfare rights, judge says in 'historic' decision

In a decision described as "historic," a Manitoba judge has found the governments of Manitoba and Canada breached First Nations' rights to self-governance around child welfare.

BYD surpasses Tesla as world’s top energy storage deployer

BYD has overtaken Tesla to become the world’s largest battery energy storage system (BESS) integrator, capturing 13% of the global market in 2025 compared to Tesla’s 10%, according to new data from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

The shift marks the end of Tesla’s reign as the top energy storage deployer — a position it held in 2023 and 2024 — as Chinese manufacturers now dominate the rapidly growing stationary storage market.

more…

Debt is on the rise

Household debt ticked up slightly in the first three months of this year, increasing by $18 billion, according to the New York Fed. Credit card debt is actually down slightly, but mortgage balances, home equity lines of credit, and car loan balances all grew. We unpack. Plus, later in this morning's show, how might economic tensions appear at the summit between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping?

Trump officials, billionaires and the quiet reshaping of America's public lands

A controversial land swap orchestrated by the megarich could be “a harbinger of what’s to come” for public lands under Trump.

Video: The secret billionaire's club reshaping America's public lands

Rare drone footage provides a glimpse into the controversial mountaintop retreat.

First Draft: Abdul El-Sayed Surges After Hasan Piker Endorsement

Can the Bernie-backed progressive win the Michigan Democratic Senate primary? Plus: Trump’s huge verbal gaffe may be the final nail in the coffin of the GOP’s midterms chances.

In Louisiana primary, a senator-physician tries to survive Trump’s ire

GOP Sen. Bill Cassidy voted to convict Donald Trump in the 2021 impeachment trial and has pushed back on public health matters. His fate on Saturday will signal the clout of the Make America Healthy Again movement, as well as the president’s hold on his party.

Raising kids in an AI-driven world

In order to write her new book “I Am Not a Robot: My Year Using AI To Do ‘Almost’ Everything," journalist Joanna Stern decided to invite artificial intelligence into every aspect of her life — including her family life.

She has a wife and two sons. On their spring break, she took them to Phoenix, where it's easy to hail a driverless car. They rode in a bunch of them, including one that totally freaked out.

She brought home an AI-powered toy (which her four-year-old quickly tired of), and says she realized her kids will "grow up never knowing a world without computers as smart as them.”

Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Stern about how she hopes her children will navigate that world.

Keir Starmer’s Last Stand?

Watch now | Tommy and Ben survey the wreckage of another week in global politics...

The Progressives Propelling Abdul El-Sayed Forward in Michigan

Activists are building a political home for the Michigan Senate candidate’s anti-corruption, anti-war populist message.

The post The Progressives Propelling Abdul El-Sayed Forward in Michigan appeared first on The American Prospect.

Trump Has Created a Climate Opportunity

The American people have been led astray about what climate change means for their pocketbooks.

The post Trump Has Created a Climate Opportunity appeared first on The American Prospect.

Trump’s Appalling Racial Legacy

The Supreme Court’s gutting of the Voting Rights Act has cemented President Trump’s legacy in erasing civil rights and equal opportunity.

The post Trump’s Appalling Racial Legacy appeared first on The American Prospect.

Coming soon to Roblox: Back to Batoche, Métis history and the Michif language

Maskwa Games and Métis Nation—Saskatchewan (MN-S) have partnered up to deliver a Roblox game that is a virtual copy of the Back to Batoche festival and grounds.

The ICE age is over: gas car sales drop 37% in world’s biggest market

Gas car sales have collapsed in the world’s largest auto market, dropping 37% year-over-year in April. As a result, 9 of the top 10 vehicles in China last month were plug-ins, with only a single one on the list sporting an ICE-only configuration.

more…

Is primary season too late to redraw the maps? Not when Congress is up for grabs.

Despite predictions that a court ruling would come too late to be actionable this election cycle, states are gerrymandering after the Louisiana v. Callais decision.

What talks between Trump and Xi could mean for US-Taiwan trust

In Taiwan, people’s willingness to stand up to coercion from China is closely related to their trust that the United States will come to their aid.

Brazilian law takes racism seriously. Why does extreme racial inequality persist?

Brazil has some of the toughest racism laws in the world, which an Argentine tourist found out the hard way, as she awaits a court sentence.

‘More Paranoid’ Trump Pushes Officials to Raid Reporters’ Homes

Donald Trump’s war on the press and leakers is on track to get much worse – and fast.

Trump’s FDA chief is out after angering pharma CEOs, vaping lobbyists and anti-abortion activists

Marty Makary is resigning as President Donald Trump's Food and Drug Administration chief. The surgeon and health researcher's tenure had drawn complaints from pharmaceutical executives, anti-abortion activists and other Trump allies. The President said Tuesday that Makary “was having some difficulty” but ”he’s going to go on and he’s going to do well.” Makary came to prominence as an outspoken critic of public health measures during the COVID pandemic, when he appeared on Fox News Channel. But at the FDA, Makary failed to win the staff's confidence after mass layoffs, leadership changes and a series of controversies involving vaccines, drugs and electronic cigarettes.

Federal data guide aims to demystify ‘patchwork’ of laws governing data sharing

The field guide outlines the breadth of data the federal government collects and makes available.

House GOP investigating costs of federal employee workplace disputes

Attorneys argued that the new investigation from Republicans mischaracterizes and oversimplifies how and why agencies settle federal employee dispute cases.

Europe drove global EV sales in April as China exports surged

Global EV sales reached 1.6 million units in April 2026, bringing total sales for the year so far to 5.6 million, according to new data from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

more…

When AI becomes the insider: Rethinking federal risk in 2026

Insider risk at the federal level is no longer just about detecting human insiders. It is about securing the entire ecosystem that runs the federal mission.

When is inflation no longer "transitory?"

Inflation was up 3.8% in April, according to the latest CPI. Economists say the war with Iran has caused “transitory” inflation — that’s short-lived inflation from a specific inflationary event. It’s also how experts characterized Trump’s tariffs and the COVID-19 pandemic. But if inflation stays put for, say, five years, is it really still transitory? Also in this episode: Small business owners fret over rising costs, MIT students graduate with majors in AI, and Quebec brings hydropower to the Northeast U.S.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

FEMA to create public assistance dashboard under new law

The requirement for FEMA to publicize public assistance claims comes as the FEMA Review Council calls for greater "transparency" at the agency.

What A Day: Ready Player Trump

Activists create a video game mockingTrump’s chaotic war.

Genesis GV90 with coach doors found abandoned with no camouflage [Images]

The GV90 will be available with Rolls-Royce-like coach doors as Genesis upscales into higher-end segments. With an expected debut soon, an uncovered model was found abandoned in a field alongside other Lucid, Hyundai, and Audi vehicles.

more…

Inflation is up. Americans explain how it's affecting them

Consumer prices surged 3.8% in April from a year ago, according to the Labor Department. We hear from people who are feeling the effects of inflation and how they're dealing.

LIVE Q&A: Meet the Man Fighting Trump's War on Free Elections

Arizona secretary of state Adrian Fontes is challenging Trump's attempts to sway the midterms. He joins Swin for a LIVE Town Hall on Wednesday at 4pm ET / 1pm PST.

From strategy to structure: How federal agencies can build the organizational engine for AI at scale

Federal agencies do not have the luxury of choosing between stability and transformation because the AI Action Plan demands both.

Innovation has expanded choice in consumer finance, but it’s also exposed limits in how well regulation keeps up

"The CFPB was obviously supposed to pull a lot that together, but its current uncertain state obviously leaves a lot in flux," said Todd Zywicki.

CBO estimates Golden Dome could cost $1.2 trillion over 20 years

The CBO said the system “would not be an impenetrable shield or be able to fully counter a large attack that Russia or China might be able to launch.”

California bets on sodium-ion batteries for extreme heat regions

California renewable energy developer Juniper Energy has partnered with Alsym Energy to deploy 500 MWh of sodium-ion battery storage projects across California.

more…

The highs and lows of the global art market

After a pandemic-era boom, the fine art market is going through something of a bust. Many galleries have closed due to climbing overhead costs and sales just aren’t what they used to be. Author and freelance journalist Julie Belcove joins Kimberly to demystify the inner workings of the global art market and what a slump could mean for the those who work in the arts.

The Court’s Ruling Unleashed a Torrent of Race-Based Pro-White Gerrymandering

In the heart of the Old South, compact majority-Black districts are being supplanted by elongated majority-white ones.

The post The Court’s Ruling Unleashed a Torrent of Race-Based Pro-White Gerrymandering appeared first on The American Prospect.

BYD launches new Seagull with LiDAR for $13,000, setting a first for entry-level EVs [Video]

The Seagull is now the first A00-class EV with a roof-mounted LiDAR. BYD launched the 2026 Seagull with a LiDAR starting at about $13,000, bringing smart-driving tech to its most affordable EV.

more…

Here’s how NIST is teeing up guidance for securing AI

NIST’s 800-53 and Cybersecurity Framework created a global IT security foundation. Now they’re applying the model to AI security.

Stephen A. Smith Thinks Voting Republican Will Make Parties 'Compete' for Black Votes. He’s Wrong

Blind loyalty to a party has never been a defining feature of Black political activism, award-winning journalist and best-selling author Michael Harriot writes.

If you feel unsure about retirement, you’re asking the right question

"Truthfully, I think a couple of years is really that magic spot because it gives you enough of a runway to start thinking," said Thiago Glieger.

In the race for AI supremacy, the US and China stake different paths

Tech giants from the U.S. and China are in a race to dominate the future of AI. But the two countries are not racing toward the same finish line.

Act on UN advice to eliminate 2nd-generation cut-off, First Nations advocates tell Canada

The Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs and the Indian Act Sex Discrimination Working Group are calling for the federal government to take action on recommendations by the United Nations to eliminate the second-generation cut-off from the Indian Act.

OMB to refresh the Federal IT Dashboard

Federal CIO Greg Barbaccia said updating the Federal IT Dashboard has become a costly, inefficient and burdensome process and he plans to fix that.

Rivian rolls out ‘Hey Rivian’ AI assistant with full vehicle control

Rivian is rolling out its new AI-powered voice assistant to all Gen 1 and Gen 2 R1 owners as part of its latest over-the-air software update. The feature, activated by saying “Hey Rivian” or holding the left steering wheel button, requires an active Connect+ subscription.

The assistant is notable because it can actually control your vehicle’s core functions — something that Tesla’s competing Grok assistant still cannot do months after its own launch.

more…

Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago CEO on inflation and latest consumer price index

NPR's Michel Martin asks Austan Goolsbee, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, about rising inflation and the latest federal report on consumer prices.

Corrupt DoT head takes oil money to film reality TV show during oil price spike

Sean Duffy, whose transportation expertise comes from being a contestant on the reality TV show Road Rules, is going back to his roots and filming a reality TV show while on the job.

But, as is fitting for the corrupt cabal he’s a member of, he’s made sure to let companies he’s supposed to regulate pay for his family’s vacation. And he’s doing this right as he works his hardest to ensure that your roadtrips are less attainable, with higher energy prices across the country as the direct and intended result of his policies.

more…

Lectric Memorial Day offers $694 bundles + up to $500 off e-bikes, Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD robot mowers, more

We’ve got plenty of low prices filling our Tuesday Green Deals, with our headliner being Lectric’s newly launched Memorial Day e-bike sale that is offering up to $694 FREE bundles alongside up to $500 price cuts, with my all-around pick being the XP4 Folding Utility e-bikes getting up to $473 in FREE gear starting from $999. There’s also Mammotion’s Memorial Day savings event, with its newest LUBA 3 AWD robot lawn mowers getting FREE garage attachments for the dock station – and they’re all at their best prices starting from $2,099. We also spotted low prices hitting meross’ new two-zone Wi-Fi smart water timer, as well as the budget-friendly Gotrax Dolphin e-bike, Autel’s 80A level 2 EV charger, and much more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s first-ever deals on the new Velotric GoMad Utility e-bike, the latest EcoFlow 48-hour power station flash sale that ends tonight, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

This chic beach car EV concept even has a pickup bed [Images]

It looks like a beach buggy with an open top and has a bed like a pickup truck. The Renault 4 JP4x4 concept is a “chick and modern beach car” with an all-electric AWD powertrain.

more…

Mamdani Announces Balanced Budget Without Cuts

Buoyed by billions in assistance from the state, real talk about what it takes to run New York City, and some taxes on the rich, the mayor closed a historic leftover budget deficit.

The post Mamdani Announces Balanced Budget Without Cuts appeared first on The American Prospect.

Crooked Con 2026 presale is happening NOW!

Paid subscribers can access their code for early access and discounted tickets below.

Tesla moves Basic Autopilot features to paid FSD where available

Tesla has quietly removed Basic Autopilot from its online configurator in the Netherlands. New orders now only offer Full Self-Driving (Supervised) — no free driver-assistance tier at all.

The change makes the Netherlands the first European market where Tesla has stripped Basic Autopilot from the buying experience, mirroring the controversial move it made in North America back in January.

more…

Fixed‑price contracts assume stable requirements, a rarity in federal missions

"The massive amount of information, Terry, is probably the number one problem," said Stephanie Kostro.

Veterans Affairs approves nearly $600 million in infrastructure improvements

The funding is also going toward preparing VA medical facilities for the rollout of a new Electronic Health Record system.

Ford explains every Mustang Mach-E has a distinct ‘personality’

Didn’t you know your vehicle has its own personality? Ford said all 2026 Mustang Mach-E’s have a unique “personality,” and it’s not just a different look. Here’s how they compare.

more…

Africa refashions relations with the West

A summit jointly hosted by Kenya and France promotes partnerships built on shared interests and respect as a way to bolster both economic growth and international norms.

Tesla finally launches Supercharger virtual queue pilot after fights broke out

Tesla is now testing a virtual waitlist feature at five Supercharger locations, allowing drivers to join a queue through the Tesla app instead of physically lining up at crowded stations.

The pilot comes over a year after Tesla promised the feature following a viral video of a fight between Tesla owners at a full Supercharger station.

more…

Consumer prices were up a lot in April

Prices in the U.S. were up 3.8% year over year in April. That's a faster rate of annual inflation than we saw in March. A main driver was higher energy prices, a result of the war with Iran. Those price increases are taking a bite out of consumer wages, but the pain may be temporary. Plus, small businesses are hanging in there. And, we'll preview President Donald Trump's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Waymo recalls 3,791 robotaxis over flooded road incident, deploying OTA software fix

Waymo has filed a voluntary recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) covering 3,791 robotaxis after one of its vehicles drove into a flooded road in San Antonio last month. No one was injured.

The key detail: the recall is a software fix that will be deployed over the air to Waymo’s entire fleet — no vehicles need to visit a service center. Waymo has already implemented interim constraints while the full remedy is finalized.

more…

Gaza's Students Face a Near Impossible Test to Study Abroad

Palestinians are turning to Duolingo to get the English certification needed to get scholarships. But adhering to the app's rules has become increasingly difficult after two-and-a-half years of war.

Toyota and Lexus just made EV road trips way easier

The new 2026 ES will be the first Lexus model to feature Toyota’s Arene software platform, unlocking new features including EV route planning.

more…

Organized Money: Who Killed Spirit Airlines?

Death by a thousand cuts delivered by myriad assassins

The post Organized Money: Who Killed Spirit Airlines? appeared first on The American Prospect.

Tesla invests $250M more in Giga Berlin battery cells, boosting capacity to 18 GWh

Tesla announced today that it will invest almost $250 million more in battery cell production at its Grünheide factory outside Berlin, more than doubling planned capacity to 18 gigawatt hours per year and creating over 1,500 battery-related jobs.

The investment comes just two months after the automaker successfully scared workers away from IG Metall in a contentious works council election — a vote where CEO Elon Musk explicitly threatened to halt expansion if the union gained control.

more…

Tesla Robotaxi’s ‘convenience issues’ are hiding the real safety bottleneck

A new Reuters investigation documents long wait times, surface-street-only routing, and near-zero vehicle availability across Tesla’s three-city “Robotaxi” service. These all look like convenience problems — but they’re really symptoms of a safety system that can’t scale.

Elon Musk himself told investors at the Q1 2026 earnings call that safety validation is the limiting factor. The “convenience issues” riders are experiencing are the direct result of those safety constraints manifesting as a degraded user experience.

more…

New analysis projects softer fundraising growth for stations in FY27

A Contributor Development Partnership analysis indicates that revenue retention will remain strong but will decline from 2025 highs.

The post New analysis projects softer fundraising growth for stations in FY27 appeared first on Current.

Inflation jumps to its highest level since 2023. Here are 3 things costing a lot more

Rising gasoline prices pushed inflation to its highest level in almost three years in April. Consumer prices were up 3.8% from a year ago.

Astute ‘Transcription’ asks readers, ‘Do you copy?’

Ben Lerner’s noteworthy novel explores tech’s impositions on memory, history, and relationships.

What's behind sluggish home sales?

In late February, mortgage rates dipped below 6%, and affordability was beginning to improve. In April, people bought and sold more homes than they did the year before, but not by much. The reason? A whole new source of uncertainty brought on by war in the Middle East. Later in the show: While specialty farmers aren't caught in trade war crosshairs the way commodity farmers are, they still have plenty to worry about domestically.

Zenobē keeps “Winnings” with Australian electric truck deal

Zenobē recently announced plans to make a $100 million investment into the Australian market – and that investment is quickly bearing fruit in the form of a new strategic partnership with Aussie appliance brand Winnings.

more…

After cops failed to catch hooligan bike riders, state asks locals for help

Police departments around the country are increasingly finding themselves in a difficult position when it comes to illegal electric motorbike riders tearing through neighborhoods, parks, and bike trails. In one Colorado town, officials are now trying a new strategy after struggling to catch many of the riders themselves: asking residents to help identify them.

more…

First Draft: 🇨🇳 🇺🇸 Donald the ‘Pussycat’ Prepares to Head to China

The leader of the free world is set to meet one of his favorite brutal autocrats, the lone Democrat on the FCC wants Disney to fight for its rights, and it's nap time again in the Oval.

Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis CEO on consumer prices and inflation

NPR's Michel Martin speaks with Neel Kashkari, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, about consumer prices and primary inflation factors.

The economic chilling effect of Trump's immigration crackdown

New research finds that ICE raids and deportation fears disrupted local economies, reduced work among undocumented immigrants, and may have hurt some U.S.-born workers too.

What AI can and can't do for you (for now)

Imagine if you invited robots - smart ones or “smart-ish,” at least - into every aspect of your life. Your emails and texts are all composed by an AI, the bots look at a photo of what’s in your fridge and figure out what you can make for dinner. They even become emotional support, providing advice and sometimes companionship. Journalist and founder of media company New Things, Joanna Stern, decided to try this and she wrote about it in her new book “I Am Not a Robot: My Year Using AI To Do Almost Everything.” Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Stern about how AI did and didn’t help her and ultimately what she sacrificed by inviting AI into her life.

AOC vs. Bezos

Watch now | Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez delivers a blistering response to Jeff Bezos’s Washington Post. Jon, Tommy, and Lovett mull what an AOC 2028 campaign could look like and discuss the latest news...

Trump’s Weird New Global Order

One positive effect is that midsized powers are less under the sway of Washington. But they could come under the sway of China.

The post Trump’s Weird New Global Order appeared first on The American Prospect.

Investors Using Shareholder Power to Challenge Corrupt Paramount Deal

Freedom of the Press Foundation and Reporters Without Borders are using a rule under Delaware law to demand records.

The post Investors Using Shareholder Power to Challenge Corrupt Paramount Deal appeared first on The American Prospect.

Third Way or the Highway

The centrist outfit’s latest foray into the culture wars isn’t about a streamer—it’s about entrenching oligarch control of influence and electoral infrastructure.

The post Third Way or the Highway appeared first on The American Prospect.

Kwanlin Dün families experiencing a crisis have a new place to stay in Whitehorse

The new Caregiver Fourplex housing project in Whitehorse opened its doors on Monday. The units are intended to be used during short periods of home instability, which might include anything from unforeseen emergencies such as a chimney fire, to things like domestic violence or sudden homelessness.

North Battleford, Sask., expands security measures in downtown core

The City of North Battleford is expanding security measures within its downtown core by partnering with MGBHLM Security, operated by Mosquito Grizzly Bear's Head Lean Man First Nation.

Ottawa’s promised spending in the North won't 'invest in the human rights’ of northerners, NDP argues

The NDP's Leah Gazan argues the billions of dollars promised for spending in the territories—specifically for defence and major infrastructure projects—should instead go toward things like housing and food insecurity.

Job training or well-rounded education: Can 3-year college degrees do both?

Three-year bachelor’s degrees are gaining traction in the United States, as they boost affordability and speed up career entry. But do they bypass traditional education goals?

The UK delivers Europe’s largest vanadium flow battery system

London-listed Invinity Energy Systems has delivered 20.7 megawatt-hours of vanadium flow batteries to the Copwood VFB Energy Hub in East Sussex. Once the project enters service later in 2026, Invinity says it will be Europe’s largest vanadium flow battery installation.

more…

Zeteo Film Wins BAFTA! Plus, Watch Our Explosive Investigative Doc, 'Who Killed Shireen?'

Two powerful, acclaimed documentaries brought to you by Zeteo have made international headlines. Have you seen them yet?

The other shoe

Inflation and employment are the dual pillars of this economy’s health, which the Federal Reserve is mandated to evenly manage. Last week saw sunny news for the latter category, when the April jobs report was better than expected. Economists anticipate the opposite for the upcoming consumer price index, as the war in Iran inflates prices at home. In this episode, we brace for a dreary CPI. Plus: Adult education programs promise higher wages, retail investors pile on to the chip market, and climate change makes food less nutritious.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

New DFARS rule would expand FOCI requirements beyond classified contracts

The Pentagon estimates nearly 40,000 companies could ultimately be affected by the rule.

Trump nominates Cameron Hamilton, fired after defending FEMA, to lead the agency

Hamilton's nomination comes as the Trump administration has increasingly signaled it is backing away from promises to dismantle FEMA.

Social Security to shutter National Hearing Centers after rise of virtual appeals

Sources familiar with these decisions told Federal News Network these facility closures won’t result in any layoffs or staffing reductions.

What A Day: 'Ballroom Republicans'

A reality show, a freshly painted pool, and a $1 billion ballroom.

Survey: One year after return-to-office requirements, how are federal employees faring?

A year after agencies set return-to-office requirements for federal employees, Federal News Network wants to learn more about what has changed, or not changed.

The new BMW iX3 costs nearly $1,000 a month to lease

Starting at $61,500, the 2027 BMW iX3 is cheaper than the Porsche Macan Electric and offers more range with up to 434 miles.

more…

Everything you know about contracting has changed

Michael Crosby, the CEO of Leadership Connect, offers 10 observations about how the federal contracting environment is changing.

The Pentagon needs a diet, not an even bigger slice of the pie

Before Congress gives the Pentagon one more dollar, it must demand that Secretary Hegseth and the department look inward and answer some basic questions.

Duracell taps Driivz to power its new EV fast charger network

Duracell is getting into EV charging in the UK, and it’s partnering with EV charging software company Driivz to help run the network.

more…

Congress is heading into a busy legislative stretch, even as larger questions hang over its future

"There are not that many seats that are truly in play and the ones you put into play or take out of play have a big impact potentially," said Loren Duggan.

Ford launches Ford Energy subsidiary to build 20 GWh of battery storage annually

Ford has officially unveiled Ford Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary that will manufacture and sell U.S.-assembled battery energy storage systems (BESS) for utilities, data centers, and large industrial customers. The new unit plans to produce 20 GWh of energy storage annually from its Kentucky gigafactory.

The move formalizes what has been months in the making — Ford’s pivot from struggling EV battery overcapacity to the booming grid-scale energy storage market, where demand is surging thanks to AI data centers and renewable energy buildout.

more…

Fast-moving wildfire threatens 2 First Nations in southeast Sask.

Officials in southeast Saskatchewan are warning residents of a "fast-moving wildfire" that destroyed some minor structures and threatened several homes on Star Blanket Cree Nation and Little Black Bear First Nation.

Around the world in 80 charges: The first electric semi to circumnavigate the globe

A German Youtuber who focuses on electric trucking content will drive a Mercedes-Benz eActros around the world, becoming the first to circumnavigate the globe in a heavy duty electric truck.

more…

How government decisions during war echo long after service ends

"The court ruled recently in a decision six to three with Justice Thomas writing the decision that there was no preemption in this case," said Lisa Himes.

Wall Street’s Favorite Democrat

Rahm Emanuel is back, running for president as a corporate Democrat. His timing is terrible.

The post Wall Street’s Favorite Democrat appeared first on The American Prospect.

BYD is upgrading its top selling EVs with 5-min flash charging and nearly 400 miles of range

BYD launched its new Flash Charging system, enabling EV charging in as little as 5 minutes, in luxury vehicles like the Denza Z9 GT. Now, it’s rolling out to some of its best sellers.

more…

Top Susan Collins Donor Rakes in Millions From Maine Workers

Blackstone CEO Stephen Schwarzman gave $2 million to Susan Collins’s super PAC. Since 2011, his firm has received an estimated $49 million in fees from Maine’s public employees.

Velotric GoMad smart utility e-bike bundle deals from $2,125, Anker SOLIX 3,840Wh F3800 power station $1,709 low, EcoFlow, more

Our Monday Green Deals are seeing some surprise discounts mixed in, starting with the Velotric GoMad Fat Tire Utility e-bike that is getting its first deals in the form of two varying passenger bundle options starting from $2,125. We are also shining a spotlight on Anker’s SOLIX F3800 series power station deals that were eclipsed by the new E10 Backup System lows from Friday, like the 3,840Wh F3800 Portable Power Station at its $1,709 low, thanks to our exclusive bonus savings code. We also have the latest EcoFlow 48-hour flash sale on an expanded 4,096Wh DELTA 2 Max bundle alongside the 3,600Wh DELTA Pro power station, as well as new low prices on three EGO Power+ Multi-Head Combo bundles with two attachments, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals from last week at the bottom of the page, rounded up together within our latest edition of Electrified Weekly.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

As Russia pushes spring offensive, shift on battlefield buoys Ukrainians

Russia is no longer making major battlefield gains. If anything, it’s been Ukraine, aided by its technological prowess, taking back small pieces of territory. After a punishing winter, Ukraine is in a surprisingly encouraging place.

How VA’s digital refresh is improving outreach to veterans

The VA is carrying out its largest-ever outreach campaign to connect veterans with benefits and services.

Veterans have seen this story before and they’re paying close attention to what comes next

"Sometimes there will be some regulations or some changes in the statute and then they find new loopholes and new ways to get around it," said Will Hubbard.

Cowichan Tribes now sole operator for casino in Duncan, B.C.

The First Nation has now assumed sole operation of Chances Cowichan, located in Duncan, B.C., near the Cowichan River Silver Bridge.

Kia’s cyber-inspired electric sports car is ‘90% production-ready’

It looks like a Lamborghini EV from the future and will likely arrive as an electric successor to the Kia Stinger. Kia unveiled the Vision Meta Turismo concept, a preview of its upcoming futuristic EV sports car.

more…

OPB, KMHD content staff union reaches first contract with management

The contract raises salary minimums, guarantees annual pay increases and introduces protections regarding the use of AI.

The post OPB, KMHD content staff union reaches first contract with management appeared first on Current.

Former long-time Tesla CFO Deepak Ahuja joins JB Straubel’s Redwood Materials

Deepak Ahuja, who served as Tesla’s chief financial officer for 11 years across two separate stints, is joining Redwood Materials as CFO. The move reunites him with Tesla co-founder and former CTO JB Straubel.

The hire comes at a pivotal moment for Redwood, which recently laid off 10% of its workforce and lost several senior executives as it restructures around a fast-growing energy storage business.

more…

This electric SUV with a semi-solid-state EV batttery costs under $15,000 in China

SAIC opened pre-orders in China for the new MG 4X, an electric SUV with a semi-solid-state EV battery, priced under $15,000. The new battery tech is set to launch in Europe by the end of 2026.

more…

Young workers aren't feeling optimistic about the job market

Younger workers typically feel more optimistic about the job market than older ones, but a new Gallup poll found that only 43% of Americans aged 15 to 34 thought that last year was a good time to find a job. That’s compared to 64% of those above the age of 55. The optimism of young workers has dropped by 27 points since 2023, potentially signaling the influence of AI. Plus: a breakdown of the costs, both human and financial, of Nebraska’s Medicaid eligibility rollout and a look into the impact of rising gas prices on inflation.

Federal government employment continues to decline

Since peaking in October 2024, the federal sector's numbers are now down by 11.5%, or 348,000 jobs.

Power sharing as trust building in Hungary

A new prime minister sets a template for ending the concentration of power left by his authoritarian, populist predecessor

New investors change the game for women’s pro sports

The business of women’s professional sports is booming, thanks in part to female venture capitalists investing for the long haul.

‘We’re Not Mad Enough’ - Hannah Einbinder, Isabella Hammad, and Mahmoud Khalil LIVE in NYC

Host Simone Zimmerman and guests go live in NYC with a powerful discussion on shifting public opinion on Israel, what it means to challenge Zionism in this moment, and the latest from Gaza.

BYD’s cheapest EV now has a roof-mounted LiDAR, and it still starts at just $13,000

The Seagull is now the first A00-class EV with a roof-mounted LiDAR. BYD upgraded the entry-level EV, bringing its smart driving tech to the masses for under 100,000 yuan ($14,700).

more…

XPeng (XPEV) reveals Mona L03 SUV with 650 km range for ~$20,500

XPeng (XPEV) is expanding its hit Mona budget EV lineup with the L03, the sub-brand’s first SUV, which surfaced in Chinese regulatory filings with up to 650 km of CLTC range, a 183 kW motor, and LFP battery options up to 69 kWh.

Chinese automotive media reports indicate the Mona L03 will start at approximately 150,000 yuan (~$20,500), making it one of the most aggressively priced electric SUVs on the market. XPeng also filed for two additional SUVs — the larger Mona L05 and flagship G9L — signaling a massive product offensive for the second half of 2026.

more…

In remote northern Philippines, a local solution to the global energy shock

Conflict in the Middle East has brought an energy crunch to the Philippines. But this Indigenous community has found a way to insulate itself with a small-scale, renewable, and reliable source of electrical power.

Zeem celebrates 350,000th successful charging session at LAX [video]

Electric logistics firm Zeem Solutions celebrated some good reliability news at ACT Expo last week, after its commercial charging depot at LAX hit a huge milestone, surpassing 350,000 successful charging sessions as one of the highest-throughput charging facilities in the US.

more…

Tesla China retail sales fall 10% in April despite reports of 36% surge

Tesla’s actual retail sales in China fell 10% year-over-year in April to just 25,956 vehicles, according to new data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) — despite widespread reports last week that Tesla’s China sales had surged 36%.

The discrepancy is the same one we’ve been flagging for months: the 36% figure is based on wholesale numbers from Giga Shanghai, which include exports. The retail figure, which reflects what Chinese consumers actually bought, tells a very different story.

more…

Amazon to stop selling ‘hooligan bikes’ in California after investigation

Amazon says it will stop allowing the sale of high-speed electric motorbikes in California that exceed the state’s legal e-bike limits, marking one of the largest crackdowns yet on the increasingly fuzzy line between e-bikes and electric motorcycles.

more…

How proving you're "not a robot" could be training AI

An announcement from Meta that information about employees’ keystroke and mouse movement would be collected and used to train its artificial intelligence has reportedly caused turmoil within the company. But the concept of harvesting data from everyday digital interactions isn’t new. “Marketplace Morning Report” Host Sabri Ben-Achour spoke with Panagiotis Ipeirotis, a professor of Technology and Business at NYU Stern, about how seemingly innocuous online activity can be used to train AI. But first: rising gas prices are making some Americans cut back, but the k-shaped economy knows no bounds.

First Draft: 🤮 Trump the Golden Calf

The decrepit child-president gets his own shiny statue. Elsewhere, a Biden State Department official tries to stop a populist in Nebraska while debate brews over AOC, MTG, and Israel's war in Gaza

Tools for Local Energy Action Under Federal Rollbacks

In this webinar, city leaders discuss tools and models for building local energy democracy and fighting corporate utility control.

Amid Silicon Valley scramble for AI agent productivity, "token anxiety" takes hold

There's a new flex in Silicon Valley: how big is your AI agent swarm? They can work on your behalf, autonomously, 24/7, on whatever goal you give them. You might think having an army of AI minions could free up some time, maybe make work more chill. But, you’d be wrong, as Marketplace’s Meghan McCarty Carino reports.

San Francisco Congressional Battle Has Three Different Visions for Government

A working-class voice, a policy wonk, and a champion of political revolution face off for Nancy Pelosi’s seat.

The post San Francisco Congressional Battle Has Three Different Visions for Government appeared first on The American Prospect.

Surveillance Reform Hinges on How Congress Defines ‘Query’

Congress wants to declassify a secret court opinion on the government’s warrantless spying program, but it may also need to clarify what constitutes a search for your communications data.

The post Surveillance Reform Hinges on How Congress Defines ‘Query’ appeared first on The American Prospect.

It's not shameful, it's savvy: The shoppers redefining how to save money on groceries

Many facing economic pressures and frustrations have begun shopping at budget grocery stores and warehouse clubs in lieu of traditional supermarkets, with priorities shifting in pursuit of good deals.

China’s Best Friend? Donald Trump!

Our backward-looking president has dismantled our scientific supremacy and forced allies to view China as the more reliable hegemon.

The post China’s Best Friend? Donald Trump! appeared first on The American Prospect.

Stocks might be soaring, but US economy is feeling Iran war shocks

The Iran war has degraded Iran’s military strength, but the conflict has imposed high economic costs on the U.S., where consumers are feeling squeezed.

Is Chavismo dead? What US presence in Venezuela means for the socialist movement.

What does interim President Delcy Rodríguez’s cozying up to the U.S. mean for the future of the socialist Chavismo movement?

Membertou forges ahead with own cannabis law while seeking federal recognition

Retired Canadian senator Dan Christmas was recently back in front of a parliamentary committee to push for recognition of Indigenous self-government rights over cannabis sales, while moving ahead in his home community of Membertou with a First Nation law on retailing marijuana products.

Survey Sunday: How much home battery backup do YOU need?

Home batteries are getting a lot of attention lately, but are people really looking for a full “whole home” setup, or are they just interested in keeping their phones alive for some post-hurricane doom scrolling? We asked you, our brilliant Electrek readers, what you were looking for in your home battery. Here’s what you said.

more…

Honda is bringing Mobile Power Pack e: battery swap tech to the US

Honda brought its Mobile Power Pack e: swappable battery system to ACT Expo last week, where the brand announced plans to bring the swap system to market for B2B commercial integrations starting as early as June 2026.

more…

🏆 Fresh fits + fresh journalism

The revamped Zeteo store features exclusive merch items and a special discount!

How to Stop Trump From Interfering in the Midterm Elections

Election and voting rights expert lawyer Marc Elias breaks down the Supreme Court's recent attacks on Black voters – and much more.

E-quipment highlight: Kalmar li-ion Super Heavy electric forklifts

Kalmar rolled out its first-ever li-ion-equipped electric “medium” forklift at last week’s ACT Expo – but Kalmar’s medium isn’t like your medium. Kalmar’s medium forklift trucks can hoist up to 40,000 lbs. And their biggest models can lift more than 4x that. (!)

more…

Frankfurt expands commercial EV fleet with 10 new vocational trucks

The German city is expanding its truck fleet with 10 new, specially upfitted examples of the Mercedes-Benz eEconic heavy-duty EVs, bringing the city’s total count of battery-electric low-floor trucks to 34.

more…

Ukraine-Russia ceasefire strained as both sides report weekend attacks

A U.S.-mediated ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine appeared under serious strain on Sunday, with both sides trading blame for weekend attacks.

More fun with a friend: Important tips for e-bike riding with two passengers

One of the most underrated superpowers of electric bikes is the ability of many models to carry more than one person. Add a passenger kit and suddenly an e-bike stops being a solo commuter and starts acting like a genuine car replacement, passengers and cargo included.

more…

Will Raphael Warnock Hear the Call?

Watch now | Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock stops by the studio to talk to Jon about the Supreme Court’s dismantling of the Voting Rights Act, his visit to an ICE detention facility, and more.

Giving birth in a hotel room? For some Indigenous women, gaps in care mean few options

Across many northern and remote Indigenous communities, families must leave weeks before giving birth. Some travel alone, others bring a support person, while children and extended family stay behind.

Tesla postpones Model S/X Signature delivery event, leaving attendees holding the bag

Tesla has postponed its highly anticipated Signature Edition delivery event that was scheduled for May 12 at the Fremont factory. The company sent a brief email to attendees today — just three days before the event — offering no explanation and no new date.

The last-minute postponement is leaving buyers who already spent thousands of dollars on plane tickets and hotel reservations holding the bag.

more…

Israel Kills Palestinian as His Wife Gives Birth, Tortures Peace Activists, and Orders Thousands of West Bank Trees Be Uprooted

Zeteo's weekly round-up of the stories you may have missed out of occupied Gaza and the West Bank, as well as the crackdown on pro-Palestine speech in the West.

Turn your GM EV into backup battery power with a GM Energy Home System [Video]

As a homeowner, one of the most frustrating things is when the power starts to flicker and go out. How long will it last this time? Generators and battery backups are always an option, but what if you could use another asset with a massive battery – your EV – to help provide power to your properly quipped home through a blackout?

more…

Peguis First Nation musician William Prince to play 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony in Toronto

Peguis First Nation singer-songwriter William Prince will take the stage in Toronto next month to kick off the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremonies alongside other Canadian and international music stars.

The Democratic Senate Map Doesn't Look So Bad Anymore

Trump’s fall is endangering his party even in red states.

Get real: DeepWay delivered 8,020 electric semi trucks last year

After a week of Tesla Semi grabbing headlines and stealing the show at ACT Expo, Baidu-backed DeepWay would like to remind you that they delivered 8,020 electric semi trucks in 2025 – and they’re almost ready to go public.

more…

Porsche announces it is abandoning its major e-bike ambitions

Porsche is pulling the plug on a major chunk of its electric bicycle ambitions, with the German automaker announcing plans to shut down its e-bike motor division and cut hundreds of jobs as it refocuses on its core sports car business.

more…

They graduate to six figure salaries, and grueling work

Cadets from the nation's Merchant Marine academies are finding lots of demand and great salaries because of a shortage of licensed mariners.

Terminally Online: Call Me Daddy

Tommy Vietor and the Terminally Online crew break down the week’s internet chaos, from the JP Morgan scandal to Alex vs. Alix and fast food drama.

From protest coverage to emergency updates: Behind the mic at the Dene Tha’ Community School

Teenagers are running a radio station in the First Nations community of Chateh, 850 kilometres northwest of Edmonton. They hope to keep the residents informed in the event of flooding and wildfire that could threaten the northern Alberta reserve.

Healing Our Broken Brains

Cal Newport joins Offline to explore how smartphones and AI are wrecking our attention spans—and what it takes to rebuild focus and practice deep work in a nonstop digital world.

America at 250: A declaration of ideals reset the world – and still resonates today

America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, whose ideals resonated across the world, amid political polarization at home.

'Colonial thinking': Inuit criticize backlash to Gov. Gen. Mary Simon’s brand of bilingualism

Inuit are criticizing the prime minister's emphasis on the next governor general's bilingualism. They point out that the outgoing Governor General Mary Simon is also bilingual in English and Inuktitut.

At under $49,000, Volkswagen’s ID.Buzz might FINALLY be priced right

Volkswagen aimed its all-electric ID.Buzz minivan squarely at an nostalgic baby boomer market that had aged out of $70,000 hippie nostalgia purchases by the time it arrived on US shores – but now VW that dealers are advertising the premium van for less than $49,000, VW’s new-age bus might be worth a second look.

more…

New Chevy Spark EUV is officially the best selling electric SUV in Brazil

Chevy resurrected Spark EUV nameplate with the launch of the all-new, affordable Chevy Spark EUV for 2026, with the hopes that its new, 220-mile range EV would be a “game changer” that helps accelerate the company’s EV transition in developing markets – and it’s now officially the best selling electric SUV in Brazil!

more…

REALLY Quick Charge with Range Energy electric trailer at ACT Expo 2026

On this really quick episode of Quick Charge, we talk to Range Energy Vice President of Product Collin MacGregor about how his electric trailer can help reduce freight costs, support the grid, and more – WITHOUT asking operators to switch trucks.

more…

We Bought a Ballroom

Watch now | Trump gives us a billion reasons to hate his ballroom, Kash Patel is drowning in leaks, and RFK Jr. will have to pry our pills from our cold, tan hands.

This Week in Democracy – Week 68: Republicans Disenfranchise Black Voters and Trump Immigration Officials Tear Gas Children

Zeteo's weekly round-up, documenting the growth of authoritarianism in Trump's second term.

DCAA to close additional offices amid agency reorganization

The agency plans to consolidate its operations into a headquarters and 23 hubs while maintaining a presence at key defense contractor sites.

Who's getting those tariff refunds?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has begun processing applications for tariff refunds after the Supreme Court ruled against swaths of President Trump’s import taxes. But limitations on who can file have left some business owners out of luck, and those who are eligible must weigh how much of the refund they should pass down the line. Also on the program: the jobs report, tech layoffs, and what the Spirit Airlines shutdown could mean for a Florida airport. Plus: a look into Sparrow’s Nest Studio, Manhattan’s “home for mahjong.”

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

USPS floats more financial aid from Congress as way to avoid running out of cash next year

Postmaster General David Steiner said these funds wouldn’t be a “bailout” for USPS, but would subsidize increasingly expensive six-day delivery.

Democrats urge OPM to continue ‘vital’ Combined Federal Campaign

Dozens of lawmakers warned that shuttering the annual donation drive would “disrupt and destabilize” thousands of charitable organizations that depend on it.

Kimberly's final cheers on "Economics on Tap"

As Kimberly gets ready to step into her new role as the host of “Marketplace Morning Report,” her predecessor David Brancaccio joins her to talk about his years on the morning shift and what he’s looking forward to on his new beat covering future effects for Marketplace. Plus, the two swap summer reading recommendations and play a round of Half Full/Half Empty!

Here’s everything we talked about today:

• "Liar's Poker" by Michael Lewis
• "Number Go Up" by Zeke Faux
• "Pattern Recognition" by William Gibson
• "The Sum of Us" by Heather McGhee
• "Public pools used to be everywhere in America. Then racism shut them down." From Marketplace
• "Open to Work: How to Get Ahead in the Age of AI" by Ryan Rolansky and Aneesh Raman
• "Want to make new friends? There's an app for that" from Marketplace
• "Why online courses sold by influencers have become so popular" from Marketplace
• "The Roomba Guy’s Second Act: A Robot You’ll Want to Snuggle" from The Wall Street Journal
• "The Spirit Airlines Comeback Story No One Saw Coming" from Inc.

“Make Me Smart” is a public media program. Support “Make Me Smart” with your donation today and keep economic news available to everyone. Donate now: https://bit.ly/mkp_mms_pod

NBIS a ‘key priority’ for new DCSA director

Joseph Tonon, a former acting assistant secretary of defense, is taking the reins at the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency.

Digital transformation success will be achieved by people, not technology

The key to unlocking true digital transformation isn’t about technology at all; rather, it’s fundamentally about communication and collaboration at its core.

What A Day: The Epstein Class of ‘26

Rising progressives are using the Epstein outrage to make their point.

Milliseconds matter: How agentic edge AI delivers autonomous action at the source

When we look back on these years, we’ll regard them as a turning point for governments.

Kia’s midsize electric SUV spotted in the US again, but this one is different [Image]

The EV5 is about the size of Kia’s best-selling Sportage SUV and the Tesla Model Y. After opening orders in Europe and Canada, Kia’s midsize electric SUV was spotted testing in the US again, but this one looks a little different.

more…

Podcast: Tesla Semi and 4680 battery, BMW iX3 price, Rivian R2 pickup, and more

In the Electrek Podcast, we discuss the most popular news in the world of sustainable transport and energy. In this week’s episode, we discuss Tesla Semi, the 4680 battery cell, BMW iX3 price, Rivian R2 pickup, and more.

Today’s episode is sponsored by GM Energy. If you want to experience more resilience and control over your home energy, the GM Energy Home System adds stationary battery power for always-ready backup energy for your home, and the GM Energy PowerBank takes in energy from the grid and stores it for when you need it most. Learn more at gmenergy.gm.com

We are also sponsored by NeuroHUD: Check out the NeuroHUD PRO featuring a true Tesla-focused HUD experience with navigation, blind-spot alerts, Autopilot status, and freely switchable display modes now on Kickstarter or Trantor Vision.com

more…

Trump’s Midterm Strategy Gets Huge Boost from Virginia Court

Tommy Vietor and Dan Pfeiffer react to the breaking Virginia Supreme Court ruling that could reshape the battle for control of Congress.

What does the FCC have to do with cyber security?

"Cyber attackers do not care, they look for any kind of vulnerability, whether it's as simple as a router to something more complex," said Zenji Nakazawa.

Biden’s Genocide Squad Must Be Stopped Before They Strike Again

From Tony Blinken and Jake Sullivan to Brett McGurk and Jon Finer, the advisers behind the Gaza genocide want to return to power. We can’t let them.

Federal Movers & Shakers | May 8, 2026

Tracking leadership changes across the federal government

An Epic Collapse for Britain’s Labour Party

Britain’s centrist Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer crashes while Spain’s Socialist Pedro Sánchez shows how to lead from the left. Could there be a lesson here?

The post An Epic Collapse for Britain’s Labour Party appeared first on The American Prospect.

OPM sees 12,000 new retirement claims in April

Currently, digital retirement claims are also being processed in about two-thirds the time of traditional paper applications.

SEG Solar ramps up with a new 4 GW solar factory in Texas

SEG Solar is expanding its US manufacturing footprint again, this time with a new 4-gigawatt solar module factory planned for Houston, Texas.

more…

AI & Data Exchange 2026: NIH’s Susan Gregurick on overcoming data silos with AI analytics

The core of NIH’s AI push is to break down data silos that limit how quickly researchers can respond to emerging public health issues, Susan Gregurick says.

Aventon Memorial Day e-bike sale lows + $206 bundles from $1,199, Anker SOLIX E10 system lows, EcoFlow power stations, more

We’re ending this week’s Green Deals with a bang, starting with Aventon’s Memorial Day Sale that is dropping most of the new smart e-bikes to their best prices and giving up to $206 FREE bundled gear packages, like the Aventure M Mid-Drive All-Terrain Smart e-bike with a $128 bundle to $2,699. There’s also Anker’s SOLIX Storm Prep Sale that is dropping the newest E10 Smart Hybrid Whole-Home Backup System and bundles to new lows starting from $3,999. From there, we have two different EcoFlow savings – the first being an exclusive bundle of the 12,288Wh DELTA Pro Ultra X Power Station with a Powerinsight 2 Monitor at $7,199, as well as a 48-hour flash sale with up to 59% savings on three units, and much more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s many exclusive low prices on Bluetti power stations in the Hurricane Prep Sale, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

Volkswagen’s electric hot hatch will get the Clubsport treatment with a feature from Hyundai

After five decades, Volkswagen is preparing to introduce its first electric GTI this year. Volkswagen is already preparing a Clubsport version of the electric hot hatch that will borrow a feature from Hyundai.

more…

AI & Data Exchange 2026: PRAC’s Ken Dieffenbach on using AI tools to stay a step ahead of fraudsters

Pandemic Response Accountability Committee is using AI tools to stay ahead of fraudsters. But fraudsters are using this emerging technology as well.

This new map shows where electric truck charging is scaling

CALSTART has expanded its US map of medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission truck infrastructure, providing fleets with a clearer picture of where they can charge or refuel.

more…

AI & Data Exchange 2026: Casey Mulligan on driving continual processes improvements

The Office of Advocacy in the Small Business Administration is applying AI capabilities on everything from writing code to summarizing meetings.

You can buy better tools, but that alone won’t get you to perfect cyber security

"I think it starts with seeing your employees as your partners in the security process rather than assets or risks to be managed," Nicole Togno said.

AI & Data Exchange 2026: CDAO’s Andrew Mapes on accelerating AI adoption departmentwide

“With the continued unification of the innovation ecosystem under the CTO, there's been a great opportunity for us to move much more quickly,” Andrew Mapes says

AI & Data Exchange 2026: Federal CIO Gregory Barbaccia on moving forward as one government

The Chief AI Council is identifying pain points for agencies to understand and avoid around everything from AI and cybersecurity to IT procurement and privacy.

In ‘referendum on Starmer,’ Labour loses big across British regional elections

Thursday’s U.K. election results showed voters’ frustration with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as they voted out Labour officials and rewarded Reform UK.

Ottawa to begin $8.5B rollout for Ontario First Nations to reclaim child welfare

Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty says $8.5 billion will begin flowing to Ontario First Nations on May 29 to reclaim their child welfare systems.

Israelis voice concern over worsening US ties. Why few offer solutions.

Despite close working ties between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, there is a crisis in the U.S.-Israel relationship, with American public support for Israel plummeting. Most Israelis see it. But do they wonder about how to fix it?

NeuroHUD puts Tesla navigation and alerts where drivers can see them

Tesla owners have been debating the missing instrument cluster for years. Some drivers love the minimalist center screen setup, while others still want critical driving information directly in their line of sight.

Now, a startup called NeuroHUD says it has the answer. Its slogan? “The heads-up display Tesla forgot.” NeuroHUD says it’s the world’s first true heads-up display (HUD) built specifically for Tesla vehicles. Instead of glancing at the center screen, drivers can see important information projected directly ahead, keeping their eyes on the road.

And they’ve clearly got Tesla owners’ attention: NeuroHUD’s Kickstarter campaign has launched, and it has already raised more than $400,000 in its first 72 hours.

more…

Cadillac admits that after buying an EV, you don’t go back to gas as sales surpass 100K

With over 100,000 EVs sold in the US, Cadillac said that those who go electric are likely to choose another EV as their next vehicle.

more…

Israeli Settlers Are Blocking Palestinian Children From Going to School With Barbed Wire

Zeteo speaks to a resident of the Palestinian village of Umm al-Khair, where students can no longer attend school because of the settlers that surround them.

‘They Are Choking Me’: Witness Describes ICE Camp Homicide That Team Trump Tried to Cover Up

This witness tells Zeteo that an officer at an ICE detention facility threatened him, if he didn’t stop telling people about how guards ‘killed a Cuban man.’

Tesla Semi battery sizes confirmed: 822 kWh and 548 kWh officially revealed

California’s Air Resources Board has officially confirmed the Tesla Semi’s battery capacities through a regulatory filing — and they’re smaller than what Elon Musk originally suggested back in 2022.

The CARB Executive Order A-374-0095, signed on April 15, reveals that the Long Range Semi carries an 822 kWh usable battery pack while the Standard Range comes in at 548 kWh, both using NCMA lithium-ion chemistry with Tesla’s 4680 cells.

more…

Oklahoma governor vetoes OETA continuation, objects to publicly funded broadcasting

It's not clear whether the state legislature will override the veto, as it has in previous sessions.

The post Oklahoma governor vetoes OETA continuation, objects to publicly funded broadcasting appeared first on Current.

Guatemala's step toward good governance

The president’s choice of an attorney general bolsters efforts to move away from retributive use of the justice system toward impartial rule of law.

Care to invest in the U.S. during a trade war?

President Donald Trump has tried to pressure foreign countries to invest in the U.S. by threatening tariffs. But for decades, the federal government has also been putting on the SelectUSA Investment Summit, a giant trade show where states and businesses try to attract foreign investors. We have a dispatch from this year's Investment Summit. Plus, some of Trump's latest tariffs have been deemed illegal. And: a better-than-expected jobs report and some slower-than-expected World Cup hotel bookings.

Manitoba premier says Speaker was wrong to change legislature rules

The Speaker of the Manitoba Legislature banned members from calling each other names — including racist — to address a decline in decorum. Premier Wab Kinew told CBC Manitoba's Information Morning the Speaker was wrong and asked for the decision to be reversed.

Semi-solid state batteries are coming to the e-bike industry – and for real this time

For years, “next-gen battery tech” in the e-bike world (and the EV world in general) has mostly been a promise. Solid-state batteries were always just around the corner, hyped in EV headlines but nowhere to be found on actual bikes you could buy.

That may finally be changing.

more…

Meat Industry Price Fixer Sentenced to Make Money

Agri Stats collected proprietary information from all meat producers and encouraged price increases for decades. After a Trump DOJ settlement, it’s allowed to stay in business.

The post Meat Industry Price Fixer Sentenced to Make Money appeared first on The American Prospect.

Indigenous youth from across Canada in Ontario's Brant County for intensive dance

More than 100 young people from 11 First Nation and Inuit communities across Canada are gathering for an intensive dance camp in southern Ontario in a program aimed at empowering Indigenous youth.

The new Chevy Bolt EV delivers nearly 300 miles of real-world range for under $30,000

The new 2027 Chevy Bolt EV drove nearly 300 miles on a single charge during real-world testing, or about 30 miles more than its official EPA-rated range. For under $30,000, the new Bolt hits the sweet spot.

more…

Enforce and Strengthen Bans on Predatory Pricing

To end predatory pricing abuses, state and federal officials can take steps to clarify the law and enforce predatory pricing bans already on the books.

First Nations say they fear 'legislative extinction' under Indian Act's 2nd-generation cut-off

Witnesses before a House of Commons committee Thursday say they fear "legislative extinction" of their First Nations if the federal government does not eliminate the Indian Act's second-generation cut-off.

How US automakers lobbied themselves into a $70B loss – and let China win

Perhaps you’ve heard the news – automakers across the industry are canceling EV investments, taking tens of billions in losses in response to a claimed lack in customer demand for EVs (even as EV sales in fact continue to rise globally and gas car sales have peaked).

A new analysis by InfluenceMap shows how automakers actually made their own bed, by flip-flopping on their own lobbying efforts and contributing to the regulatory instability that currently plagues an industry with long planning timelines and global competitors that have not hamstrung themselves with such uncertainty.

more…

Nuro secures California driverless permit for Lucid Gravity Uber robotaxis

Nuro has received a permit from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to test its Lucid Gravity SUVs without a human safety driver on public roads — a critical milestone before the company can launch Uber’s planned robotaxi service later this year.

The updated permit covers testing in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties at speeds up to 45 mph, day or night, clearing the way for fully driverless testing of the vehicles that Uber plans to deploy in a fleet of at least 35,000 robotaxis.

more…

The context behind 115,000 new jobs

This morning, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released fresh jobs data for April. Unemployment remained unchanged at 4.3%, and the overall economy added 115,000 new jobs. A warmer-than-average April resulted in strong seasonal hiring, though it may be too early to see drags from war and high gas prices. Then later, we'll check in with the owner of a Virginia tea shop, who — like many small business owners — has been buffeted around by changing tariff policy.

Wheel-E Podcast: Juiced returns, semi-solid state e-bike batteries, more

This week on Electrek’s Wheel-E podcast, we discuss the most popular news stories from the world of electric bikes and other nontraditional electric vehicles. This time, that includes new e-bikes from Juiced, Ride1Up and Jackrabbit, e-moto news from Segway and Honda, new e-bike laws, and more.

more…

REALLY Quick Charge: The Mobility House, V2G, and building up the grid

On this really quick episode of Quick Charge, we got the chance to sit down with The Mobility House North America’s director of marketing communications, Dylan Gasperik, who talks ACT, V2G integration with Kia, utility programs, and how EVs strengthen – not weaken – the nation’s straining energy grid.

more…

'So much is being allowed to spoil': Country food in Nunavut faces distribution challenges

Limited freezer space at airports, broken community freezers, and delays in cargo handling lead to expired food, according to one researcher.

First Draft: The End of Kash Patel?

The FBI director seriously can’t stick around much longer… right? Plus, violence flares again in Iran, while Labour faces disaster in key UK local elections.

Ignore WW3 – these electric excavators are going TO THE MOON [update]

Engineering startups Astroport Space Technologies and Astrolab have successfully completed a real-world demonstration for their UTIPA Excavator – an all-electric machine designed to become the cornerstone of lunar construction solutions and pave the way for autonomous construction projects on the Moon.

UPDATE 08MAY26: Oh, we’re really doing this.

more…

The Saint of Sex Workers: Remembering Trans Icon Cecilia Gentili

Two years after her untimely death, Cecilia Gentili remains a legendary trans icon. As International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and...

The post The Saint of Sex Workers: Remembering Trans Icon Cecilia Gentili appeared first on Latino USA.

Julieta Venegas on Her New Music, Embracing Her Roots, and Mexican Dads

Grammy award-winning Mexican artist Julieta Venegas just released an album and a memoir all about being a Norteña. “But it’s...

The post Julieta Venegas on Her New Music, Embracing Her Roots, and Mexican Dads appeared first on Latino USA.

Anthropic’s new, powerful allies: Elon Musk and SpaceX

On this week’s “Marketplace Tech Bytes: Week in Review,” we’ll discuss why Apple is paying a $250 million settlement over its Apple Intelligence tool and its capabilities. Plus, GameStop makes a surprising buyout offer for eBay. But first up: Anthropic, maker of the chatbot Claude, announced a new computing deal this week with SpaceX and its AI division, xAI. Anthropic will get access to SpaceX’s Colossus One data center, which will let the company increase how much its customers can use Claude. The deal comes as SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is facing off in federal court against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman.

Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke about all this with Caroline O’Donovan, AI and technology senior reporter at The San Francisco Standard, who noted that Anthropic's leaders talked about the need for more computing power at their developer conference this week.

Check out our YouTube page to watch more episodes of “Tech Bytes.”

It's One Ballroom, Donald, How Much Could It Cost?

Watch now | Congressional Republicans plan to spend $1 billion in taxpayer money on Trump's ballroom, claiming the money is necessary for "security" — and creating a huge political problem for themselves.

Prices are up, but Mother's Day still means brunch

It's the biggest day for America's restaurants, and one of the biggest for flower sales. Despite anxieties over rising gas prices, people are ready to splurge to celebrate.

Aftermath: There Is No End to the War With Iran

In today’s edition, we discuss how the haphazard ending to the war won’t divert from the terrible path Donald Trump has led the world down.

The post Aftermath: There Is No End to the War With Iran appeared first on The American Prospect.

Corporate Hospitals Bilking Americans as GOP Destroys Health Care

Patients are caught in the middle of a corporate money grab and lawmakers who refuse to regulate.

The post Corporate Hospitals Bilking Americans as GOP Destroys Health Care appeared first on The American Prospect.

What are immigrant children’s rights to a public education? Pressure grows for restrictions.

Calls are growing among some to overturn a Supreme Court decision that gave immigrant children access to public education.

John Roberts Is Starting to Sweat

The reactionary hacks on the Supreme Court might have gone too far this time.

The post John Roberts Is Starting to Sweat appeared first on The American Prospect.

Democrats want to raise taxes on the wealthy. A look at the math

Democrats want to tax the rich to cut taxes on worker incomes. Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland explains and a tax policy expert shares his reservations with NPR's Planet Money team.

Ride1Up rolls out suspension version of popular low-cost commuter e-bike

Ride1Up is expanding one of its most popular lightweight commuter e-bikes with a new version aimed at riders looking for a bit more comfort on rougher roads and longer rides. The company has now officially begun shipping the new Ride1Up Roadster V3 Suspension model, adding front suspension to the sleek urban e-bike while keeping much of what made the original such a hit.

more…

Mayor of Arviat, Nunavut, says Star of David tuque wasn't political statement

Joe Savikataaq Jr. wore a tuque with the Star of David and the word Israel during a public event celebrating the Inuit Nunangat University. Amid high tensions over the Israel-Hamas war, the use of the symbol at a public event has drawn heated criticism on social media.

Algonquins of Barriere Lake try to keep lights on as federal funding dries up

With funding for its diesel generators set to expire, the Algonquins of Barriere Lake First Nation is searching for a way to keep power flowing in the community. Their chief has been at odds with Indigenous Services Canada and Hydro-Québec on what the long-term solution should be.

Innu man dies in custody after 'violation of human dignity,' reports Quebec ombudsman

The Quebec ombudsman identified several failures in the care provided to Philippe Pinette, a 40-year-old Innu man from Uashat, near Sept-Îles on Quebec's North Shore. He died in hospital on Sept. 19, 2022, while under the care of the Quebec City detention centre.

Tesla Model Y first to pass NHTSA’s new ADAS tests — but they test the basics

NHTSA announced today that the 2026 Tesla Model Y is the first vehicle to pass its new advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) benchmark tests under the updated New Car Assessment Program. The agency framed it as a milestone for vehicle safety.

The announcement is real progress, and credit where credit is due — Tesla passed all eight ADAS evaluations. But the context around this news is important, and it paints a more nuanced picture than the press release suggests.

more…

Israel’s National Security Minister Celebrated His Birthday With a Noose Cake. I Wish I Could Say I Was Surprised

This is Israel, where politicians – and society – have for decades championed the racist death penalty law for Palestinians. Their 'dreams' have now 'come true,' and they're celebrating with cake.

What A Day: What Autopsy?

We got details about the DNC’s secret report into what went wrong in 2024.

Three-quarters of USDA researchers tapped to relocate tell union they’re not going

An internal survey conducted by AFGE Local 3403 found that 76% of its members have indicated they are not planning to relocate.

Trade court strikes down a second round of Trump tariffs

The Court of International Trade has struck down a second round of global tariffs ordered by President Trump, after his earlier import taxes were outlawed by the U.S. Supreme Court.

The erosion of the American tax base

After the One Big Beautiful Bill Act reduced taxes for 85% of households, disproportionately benefiting high-income earners, all eyes are on the GOP’s approach to taxation. But they’re not the only ones, as Democrats, too, seek to cash in on the tax cut strategy. “Marketplace” Host Kai Ryssdal spoke with Annie Lowrey, a staff writer at The Atlantic, about what that dwindling tax base could mean for public works and our national debt. But first: Whirlpool reports “recession-level low” demand, the first quarter’s lower-than-expected productivity, and a look into how some business owners are approaching tariff refunds.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

Military spouses press Congress to expand small business opportunities

A new bill seeks to designate military spouse-owned businesses as a disadvantaged category under the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program.

Blink’s 56k EV ports to get plug-and-charge access through Emobi

Blink and Emobi are teaming up to make EV charging work more seamlessly across apps, networks, and vehicles.

more…

FEMA Review Council backs off on staffing cuts in final report

The report urges sweeping overhauls at FEMA, but leaves it up to agency leadership to review staffing needs.

Public service awards meet an era of federal workforce turbulence

Now in its 25th year of recognizing federal employee excellence, the ceremony for the 2026 Service to America Medals, or Sammies, harbored a different tone.

Toyota’s $15,000 electric SUV has been China’s top-selling joint venture EV for 7 months

The bZ3X, Toyota’s fully electric SUV, is a hit in China. After delivering over 80,000 units in its first year on the market, the bZ3X has now remained the best-selling EV from a joint venture in China for seven consecutive months.

more…

Drone threats are escalating. America’s airspace intelligence isn’t keeping pace.

The rise of drone activity within the U.S. and the recent EU incidents both clearly show adversaries are testing western defense systems.

Hyundai patent reveals new body-on-frame EV battery setup

Hyundai is preparing to launch its first body-on-frame vehicle, a midsize pickup truck. The rugged Boulder Concept SUV is a preview, but a new patent offers a sneak peek at the battery and chassis setup.

more…

She helps families in need. As gas and grocery prices rise, she needs help, too

She has spent decades helping others struggling to make ends meet. Now the rising cost of gas and groceries has left Dalene Basden feeling the strain herself.

Protecting federal AI systems: A primer on RAG and securing AI-driven data workflows

RAG is a model that connects large language models to live agency knowledge bases — enabling grounded, mission-specific responses, rather than generic outputs.

Kimberly Adams named ‘Marketplace Morning Report’ host

"I’m excited and honored to usher in this new moment for Marketplace and our listeners,” Adams said.

The post Kimberly Adams named ‘Marketplace Morning Report’ host appeared first on Current.

How the new WNBA CBA transforms player pay

The WNBA’s 30th season tips off tomorrow. This year, things look a lot different for players after the league and players union recently signed a landmark collective bargaining agreement (CBA). On today’s show, The Athletic’s Annie Costabile joins Kimberly to break down how the deal has transformed the way players are paid. Plus, has women’s basketball ever really been given the chance to maximize its earning potential?

Jared Kushner’s Role as ‘Special Peace Envoy’ Is a 5-Alarm Constitutional Fire. Here's Why

Kushner claims to be representing the US in high-stakes foreign policy negotiations, while also pursuing billions from other nations for his firm. So, who is he actually working for, Kim Wehle asks.

A new executive order makes fixed‑price, performance‑based contracts the default across the federal government

"It could lead to better acquisition planning so that we're actually thinking about how a contract, a purchase is going to evolve over time," said Emily Murphy.

The Court Didn’t Just Disenfranchise Blacks. It Also Disenfranchised Cities.

The Republican redistrictings strip cities of congressional representation.

The post The Court Didn’t Just Disenfranchise Blacks. It Also Disenfranchised Cities. appeared first on The American Prospect.

Treating public service recognition as more than a ceremony

"It really shouldn't be something that's relegated to a week, but something that we appreciate always," said James‑Christian Blockwood.

Bluetti Hurricane Prep Sale offers exclusive power station lows from $449, Segway e-bikes at lows from $1,800, ECOVACS, more

Headlining today’s Green Deals is Bluetti’s Hurricane Prep Sale with tons of exclusive power station lows, like the 2,764Wh Apex 300 Portable Power Station down at $1,425 and others. We’ve shone a spotlight on Segway’s e-bike deals to their all-time lowest prices, with the Xafari All-Terrain Cruiser e-bike at $1,800 while the Xyber e-bike is back down at $2,900. There’s also the ECOVACS Goat RTK and newest LiDAR PRO Robotic Lawn Mowers getting up to $900 savings to lows starting from $700, as well as Hiboy’s Mother’s Day EV Sale with up to 50% discounts on e-scooters and e-bikes, an advanced EGO self-propelled cordless electric mower with 2x batteries, the first discount on ECOVACS’ new robot pool cleaner, and much more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s EcoFlow Mother’s Day power station sale with up to 64% discounts, the current sale on Segway e-scooters, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

This electric SUV has a semi-solid-state EV battery, and it will go on sale in a few days

After launching the first mass-produced EV with a semi-solid-state battery last year, SAIC Motor is following it up with the new MG 4X electric SUV. The new EV will go on sale in less than a week.

more…

Tenways Wayfarer review: One of the smoothest-riding commuter e-bikes I’ve tested in a long time!

Tenways has been steadily growing its reputation in the commuter e-bike world, especially in Europe, where the company has become known for sleek urban bikes that feel a bit more refined than their price tags might suggest. But even humble Americans have been able to enjoy Tenway’s e-bikes for years, plus with the added bonus of accessing higher speeds and power levels that bump models up into Class 3 territory.

The new Tenways Wayfarer continues that trend, while adding something the company hasn’t leaned as heavily into before: more comfort, more utility, and a more approachable ride for everyday riders.

more…

After massive Israeli attacks, how is Hezbollah still fighting?

Since late 2024, and now as part of the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, Lebanon’s Tehran-backed Hezbollah militia has been the target of powerful and persistent Israeli attacks. So, how is it that it keeps on fighting, even intensifying its own attacks on Israel?

Customer experience modernization sounds straightforward, until agencies try to execute it

"I think it's an important time to be in this government technology business because we're able to shape what happens next," said John Boerstler.

Tesla’s 4680 battery cells are underperforming and frustrating buyers

Five years after Tesla (TSLA) unveiled its 4680 battery cell at Battery Day with promises of 5x the energy, 6x the power, and 16% more range, the data tells a very different story. Tesla’s homemade cells consistently deliver worse energy density, worse charging performance, and less range than the supplier cells they are meant to replace.

The problem is getting harder to ignore now that Tesla is quietly swapping supplier batteries for its own 4680 cells in European Model Y vehicles — and owners are noticing the downgrade.

more…

As antisemitism rises in UK, Shomrim volunteers help protect Jewish communities

Shomrim North West London, a volunteer neighborhood patrol, is helping British Jews respond to antisemitic attacks like the one last week in Golders Green.

BREAKING: Tennessee State Republicans Are Voting to Eliminate Only Black-Majority District

Rep. Justin Pearson lays out how Republicans scrambled to redraw the district he's running in, how Democrats failed to prevent this moment, and why he's fighting for kids whose names he'll never know.

Flagg is the new federal deputy CIO

Federal CIO Greg Barbaccia said Thomas Flagg stood out because of his depth and seriousness of his experience among a large number of candidates.

Federal workers’ compensation is getting an overhaul

The Labor Department said it’s expanding the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act Pharmacy Benefit Program to cover more types of beneficiaries and programs.

Ocean State Media employees plan to form union

“We want a culture that is collaborative, equitable and inclusive,” the employees said in a petition.

The post Ocean State Media employees plan to form union appeared first on Current.

BYD’s flagship electric SUV secures 100,000+ orders in 2 weeks, and it costs under $40K

The stunning three-row electric SUV can drive up to 590 miles (950 km) on a single charge and features BYD’s new 5-minute Flash Charging.

more…

Open Tabs: Little Marco’s Big Mo'

Republicans are giving Rubio a fresh look. JD Vance can’t be pleased.

Trump’s Iran war ‘naughty’ list pushes Europe toward more independent defense

President Donald Trump’s threats to punish NATO allies over Iran war disputes have spurred Europe to pursue independent defense as trust in the U.S. partnership fades.

North Korea as peacemaker?

Changes to its constitution indicate that it recognizes South Korea as a separate country, and might also like to be treated as a normal state.

Productivity is on the upswing

Labor productivity has been on a growth streak for the past year and a half. It increased 0.8% in the first quarter of this year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and is up almost 3% from a year ago. How much of this boils down to AI? Also on the show: threatened tariffs against the European Union and a conversation about U.S. dollars, the oil shock, and investment from Gulf countries.

‘The Sheep Detectives’ is a tender fable wrapped in a murder mystery

"The Sheep Detectives" could have been just a funny fable about sheep searching for their shepherd's killer. Our reviewer says tenderness and melancholy elevate it.

Why a merger made sense now for GBH and New England Public Media

Cuts to federal funding increased urgency, but the stations had been discussing a new relationship for years.

The post Why a merger made sense now for GBH and New England Public Media appeared first on Current.

The Lexus TZ is a 3-row luxury EV SUV with 300 mi range, but it’s missing something [Images]

Toyota’s luxury brand, Lexus, introduced its first all-electric three-row SUV, set to go head-to-head with the Hyundai IONIQ 9, Volvo EX90, and Rivian R1S. The new 2027 Lexus TZ looks nice, but it’s missing one thing.

more…

Porsche Taycan Turbo GT with Manthey Kit sets 6:55 Nürburgring EV record

Porsche has set a new Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record for “production” electric vehicles. A Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package equipped with the new Manthey Kit lapped the 12.94-mile circuit in 6:55.553 minutes.

The time, set by Porsche development driver Lars Kern, is 12 seconds faster than his own previous record in the standard Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package set in October 2023 — and more than nine seconds faster than the previous record in the “Electric Executive Cars” category.

more…

Will healthcare costs sway how you vote?

If you ask people what they’re most worried about affording these days, healthcare tops the list (now tied with gas). And that concern may translate to a wave of resentment at the ballot box: About 90% of people say healthcare costs will influence whether and how they vote in November, and more than half say it will have a major impact. Then, the United Arab Emirates wants a currency swap with the United States. We explain.

First Draft: Trump’s America Is Not a Serious Country – But We Are Seriously Screwed

In the Oval Office, the president wanted to talk Mixed Martial Arts, not Middle East war. At the FBI, fundamental freedoms were under fire… while the director handed out personalized booze.

Honda patents fake clutch for electric motorcycles and it might actually make sense

One of the biggest advantages of electric motorcycles has always been their simplicity. No clutch, no gears, no stalling – just twist the throttle and go. They’re basically big, fun scooters, at least in terms of operation. But Honda appears to think there’s still something worth preserving from the old-school riding experience, especially for off-road riders.

A newly revealed Honda patent shows the company developing a simulated electronic clutch system for electric motorcycles, complete with torque-boost launches and even haptic feedback designed to mimic the feel of a combustion engine.

And surprisingly, it might not be as gimmicky as it first sounds.

more…

Pod Save America: OnlyFriends (Marco Rubio Defends the War, Trump Rants to Kids, Obama on Colbert)

Dan Pfeiffer and Jon Lovett discuss Marco Rubio’s turn at the White House podium defending the war in Iran, Trump's bizarre White House event with children, and Barack Obama’s sit-down with Colbert.

Elon Musk is in court arguing that OpenAI abandoned its nonprofit model

Back in 2015, Elon Musk and Sam Altman got the idea to start a nonprofit AI lab to develop artificial general intelligence that benefits all humanity. The lab would also make its technology open source, calling it OpenAI.

All that is according to a complaint filed by Elon Musk, who has since parted ways with the organization. And now he is suing OpenAI, its CEO Sam Altman and its president Greg Brockman, saying they have abandoned the founding principles of the organization in pursuit of profits.

They are currently facing off in federal court in the Northern District of California. Paresh Dave at Wired has been in the courtroom. He explains more on what the core of Musk's case is.

Oliver Larkin vs. the Epstein State

Hasan Piker’s new favorite candidate was gaining surprising traction challenging self-described ‘Ron DeSantis Democrat’ Jared Moskowitz. Then DeSantis vaporized the district.

The post Oliver Larkin vs. the Epstein State appeared first on The American Prospect.

We Need a Pulitzer for Substacks

These individual newsletters are a whole new genre. At their best, they have breathed new life into journalism and public discourse.

The post We Need a Pulitzer for Substacks appeared first on The American Prospect.

ICE Wants to Reopen the Crumbling Federal Prison Dubbed ‘Rape Club’

The infamous prison was closed two years ago following revelations of rampant sexual abuse.

The post ICE Wants to Reopen the Crumbling Federal Prison Dubbed ‘Rape Club’ appeared first on The American Prospect.

Defaced mural of Stó:lō woman to be restored in Chilliwack

Community members in Chilliwack, B.C., say they feel unsettled after a beloved mural depicting a Stó:lō woman was splattered with black paint.

'Very gentle soul': Family, friends devastated after Métis woman, 77, killed in Saskatoon

On a day dedicated to honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, family and friends of Dory Cook had very fresh grief in their hearts.

‘They just want to matter’: Swarming teens test community order

As “teen takeovers” highlight young people’s need for connection, one Georgia beach town shows how to keep peace, build community, and still have fun.

Boston pushes to keep school buses rolling

School districts nationwide struggle with late buses. In Boston, parents, local officials, and the school district are pressing for accountability.

5 years after Quebec law, 129 Indigenous families still need answers on missing children

According to a recent government report, 129 Indigenous families have started the process of searching for 221 missing children since the law, known as Bill 79, came into effect.

Humble Hauler autonomous trailer takes the truck out of trucking

The startup that dares to ask, “Why does the Macbook driving my freight around need a whole cab?” just showed off a fully driverless, cab-less, and truck-less battery-electric freight platform designed to handle containerized cargo more efficiently than ever.

more…

‘I don’t know if he is alive’: In Sudan, love in a time of war

Sudan’s civil war has displaced millions of people, often leaving couples stranded far from each other, unsure if they will ever meet again.

REALLY Quick Charge: Slate Auto CCO talks affordability, flexibility, and more

On this really quick episode of Quick Charge, Slate Auto’s Chief Commercial Officer Jeremy Snyder believes his new truck is the right size and price to drive fleet adoption AND fandom. We only had a few minutes with Jeremy, and Slate is nearly ready for prime time!

more…

Bari Weiss ‘Meddles’ With ‘CBS Sunday Morning’ Story on Palestine

Plus, Trump gets a lot wrong about Ted Turner.

ESS adds 8.5 GWh of sodium-ion to its battery storage portfolio

ESS is moving beyond its long-duration energy storage roots into the crowded short- and medium-duration battery storage market – but not with lithium.

more…

What A Day: Ka$h or Credit

Trump’s DOJ keeps making headlines and raising concerns.

Public Service Recognition Week comes at an uneasy moment for the federal workforce

Scott Kupor says recognition, in this moment, is less about ceremony and more about how the government expects people to do their jobs.

OPM to relaunch FEVS to better measure a performance-based culture

OPM Director Scott Kupor said his agency has been refining the survey to focus more on micro-level questions in order to more effectively gauge feedback.

Tesla files new Roadster trademarks with unique badge ahead of launch

Tesla has filed two new trademark applications for the Roadster with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, revealing a stylized wordmark and a distinctive triangular badge that departs from the automaker’s standard branding approach.

The filings are the clearest signal yet that Tesla is preparing to bring the long-delayed electric supercar to market — nearly nine years after the prototype was first unveiled.

more…

What to expect in the April jobs report

The private sector added twice as many jobs in March as it did in April — it’s a promising sign in an otherwise perplexing labor market. Private sector gains could translate to an overall boost in the upcoming BLS jobs report. But even if the quantity of jobs goes up, there are still some negative indicators to keep an eye on. Also in this episode: Corpus Christi's water crisis collides with an energy sector boom and Disney sees revenue wins after raising streaming prices.

Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.

Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

EPA producing less scientific research after 20% staffing cut, data shows

The EPA has also implemented an “advance notice” policy for most of its public-facing research.

Chinese automakers race to enter Canada, here are the EVs likely coming

Three major Chinese automakers — BYD, Chery, and Geely — are actively hiring staff, scouting dealership locations, and registering trademarks in Canada following the country’s landmark decision to slash tariffs on Chinese-built EVs from 100% to 6.1%. But none of them have actually started selling cars yet.

The biggest beneficiaries of the new quota system so far are Tesla and, to a lesser extent, Polestar — companies that already have established brands and existing sales infrastructure in Canada.

more…

Rutgers Grad Speaker Canceled for Social Posts Speaks Out

Rami Elghandour talks to Prem about his commencement speech being canceled over unspecified social media posts.

WH ‘studying’ AI security executive order

An EO requiring pre-deployment review of frontier AI models would likely increase the workload at NIST's Center for AI Standards and Innovation.

TRICARE systems to transition to myAuth by the end of 2026

DS Logon will still remain available until it is fully retired on Sept. 30.

Poll: Most Americans say Trump deserves blame for high gas prices

The new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll finds that 8 in 10 Americans say gas prices are straining their household budgets.

Balancing strained budgets with endpoint modernization demands

Agencies are reevaluating technology deployments with an eye toward future savings and more flexibility, expecting more funding and business shifts in 2026.

Public Service Recognition Week: One year after DOGE

David Lebryk, who spent 35 years in federal service, explains why public servants are understaffed, demoralized and unprepared for the crisis ahead.

A trip to Europe? In this economy? Expensive flights keep vacations closer to home

Expensive airfares are causing Americans to change their travel plans. Travel advisors are seeing a drop in bookings and warn high prices are here to stay.

How Much Are You Paying For Utility Profits? — Episode 270 of Local Energy Rules

In some states, 30 cents of every dollar a customer pays to their electric utility goes to the utility’s shareholders’ profits. How widespread is this problem and how did it happen?

Indian Health Service CISO eyes AI as tool ‘to make better decisions’

IHS's top cyber official says AI will help security teams be more efficient, allowing analysts to work on things "we really don't want agentic AI to do.”

PBS CEO Paula Kerger at Annual Meeting: ‘The system we are building together will be stronger’

Kerger delivered a rousing pep talk to attendees at the annual conference Wednesday in Austin, Texas.

The post PBS CEO Paula Kerger at Annual Meeting: ‘The system we are building together will be stronger’ appeared first on Current.

A conversation with a 2026 Sammies awardee whose federal research reshaped an entire industry

"Most private companies are trying to maximize their return; the federal government was really trying to promote science in general," Dr. Paul VanRaden said.

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 checks all the boxes at an affordable price

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 remains one of the most affordable EVs on the market, starting at $35,000. With long-range, fast charging, and modern tech, is the IONIQ 5 the best EV for your buck?

more…

Spirit Gives Up the Ghost

Trump chaos, Hegseth on Iran, Spirit crashes out, and Ann Wilson talks pipes.

Kempower unveils its dual CCS and megawatt truck charger

Kempower just unveiled its Mega Satellite Flex, a high-power EV charger that supports both CCS (up to 560 kW) and megawatt charging (up to 1.2 MW) for heavy-duty trucks.

more…

Consultant suggests Jefferson Public Radio ‘spin off’ from university licensee

Southern Oregon University is operating with a $12.5 million deficit due to rising expenses and enrollment declines.

The post Consultant suggests Jefferson Public Radio ‘spin off’ from university licensee appeared first on Current.

A Billion in Taxpayer Money for Trump’s Ballroom

In his vanity, Trump seems determined to alienate Republicans in Congress from most voters.

The post A Billion in Taxpayer Money for Trump’s Ballroom appeared first on The American Prospect.

Tech Force program makes its first official hire

The hiring initiative is designed to recruit temporary tech talent, with a focus on early-career employees.

'A Lawless President': Mehdi Debates Right-Wing Pundit on Trump and the Constitution

Watch Zeteo's editor-in-chief take on the Daily Wire's Michael Knowles at the Dartmouth Political Union on Tuesday night. Is Trump upholding the Constitution or not? This debate got heated!

EcoFlow Mother’s Day power station sale with up to 64% savings + 24-hour flash sale lows from $829, Segway EV sale, more

Our mid-week Green Deals are seeing two EcoFlow sales, starting with the brand’s overall Mother’s Day Sale with up to 64% discounts on power stations and accessories (which gets a buy 2 get 10% off promotion), as well as two tiers of FREE gifts on orders over $600 and $3,000. Part of that sale is the 24-hour flash sale window on four units, like EcoFlow’s 2,048Wh DELTA 2 Max Portable Power Station at a new $829 low. We also spotted Segway offering hundreds in savings on e-scooters and e-bikes starting from $296, as well as some lows on Greenworks equipment – a deluxe 24V string trimmer/edger package alongside 24V, 40V, and 82V battery deals. That’s not all, as we have plenty more waiting for you below, and don’t forget about the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s new low prices on the Ride1Up Portola Compact Folding e-bikes starting from $795, the rare discount hitting EGO’s Nexus power station with 4x batteries, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

more…

Mercedes reveals C-Class EV prices start at $80,000 with leases from $550 a month

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV is now available to order in Europe with prices starting at €67,711 ($80,000).

more…

Musk’s AI empire is unraveling — the trial is just the beginning

On March 4, 2026, Elon Musk posted on X that “Tesla will be one of the companies to make AGI and probably the first to make it in humanoid/atom-shaping form.” Less than eight weeks later, under oath in an Oakland federal courtroom, he was asked whether Tesla has any concrete plans to pursue AGI. His answer: “No.”

That single contradiction — between what Musk tells his millions of followers and what he admits when he’s facing perjury charges — captures the story of his decade-long obsession with artificial intelligence better than any timeline ever could. But here’s a timeline anyway, because the trial of Musk v. Altman is now exposing, under oath, what many of us have long suspected: Musk’s AI ambitions were never about safety, open access, or benefiting humanity. They were about control.

more…

In Europe, and now Asia, confidence in US support wavers

Ahead of President Trump’s expected visit to Beijing, American allies in Europe and Asia remain on edge about the strength of their partnerships.

Ford is in ‘very advanced’ talks to sell part of EU plant to China’s Geely, but there’s more

Ford is reportedly in “very advanced” talks with Volvo owner, Geely, to sell a portion of its Valencia plant in Spain. The deal may involve a new electric vehicle.

more…

A push for patient investing over easy money

Proposed rules for U.S. corporations would reduce quarterly reporting burdens in hopes of encouraging long-term, sustainable investments by Americans.

Outside Spending in Nebraska House Seat Tops $3.5 Million

Democratic Majority for Israel hastily got out of the Second District race after realizing the beneficiary of its spending had disavowed the group. It’s back under a different name.

The post Outside Spending in Nebraska House Seat Tops $3.5 Million appeared first on The American Prospect.

Rivian (RIVN) CEO hints at R2 pickup and R2X variants as production ramps

Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe confirmed that the company is developing undisclosed variants of the R2, hinting at both a pickup truck and an “R2X” performance model just days after starting volume production of the more affordable electric SUV.

The comments, made in an exclusive interview with Reuters, signal that Rivian’s mid-size platform is set to expand well beyond the three R2 SUV trims announced in March.

more…

‘We’ll Be Paying for This for Years,’ UN Aid Chief Speaks Out on Iran War

UN Humanitarian Chief Tom Fletcher joins Mehdi to discuss Iran, Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, and how he can’t save them all.

Former NHL goalie Carey Price among those calling for changes to Indian Act

More witnesses weighed in Tuesday on legislation that would make changes to registration under the Indian Act, including eliminating the second-generation cut-off.

Hiplok Switch 105 folding lock vs Urban D lock tested on e-bikes

I recently had the chance to test out two very different styles of locks from Hiplok: Their Hiplok Urban D and their Switch 105. They come with unique use cases and security levels, so testing both gave me a unique view of when and where they fit best into my bike lock quiver.

more…

Markets mull an end to war in Iran

The U.S. and Iran are reportedly back to working on an end to the war, and sources say a deal is close. Axios reports that the deal would involve a moratorium on nuclear enrichment and an end to sanctions. This morning, we dig into how seriously markets are taking these peace talks. Then, we continue our discussion of Iran's beleaguered economy — and who exactly they blame for it.

BMW opens 2027 iX3 preorders starting at $61,500 with up to 434 miles of range

The 2027 iX3, BMW’s first Neue Klasse vehicle, is now available to order in the US starting at $61,500. BMW’s electric SUV delivers more range than expected, up to 434 miles on a single charge.

more…

Have you lost or are worried about losing SNAP benefits? NPR wants to hear your story

NPR wants to hear from people impacted by changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

Font of knowledge: Calligraphy enthusiasts in Nepal take up their pens

The group Callijatra preserves and promotes a once-forgotten language and its writing systems across Kathmandu Valley.

First Draft: Trump Wants the World to Know He Cares. So Much. So, So Much

The president touted 'Project Freedom' as a push to free up the Strait of Hormuz as a 'favor' to the world… only to pause it. Plus, Democrats Abdul El-Sayed and Graham Platner hit back at AIPAC.

Insurers ease up on prior authorization

United Healthcare, the nation’s biggest insurer, announced that it’s cutting back on its requirements for prior authorization by 30%. Prior authorization is when your doctor orders a medical procedure, test, or drug, but you can't get it before the insurance company's approval. For insurers, it's a way to cut costs. For doctors and patients, it's a source of massive frustration. Plus, we check in on the state of Iran's wartime economy.

Massachusetts proposes ‘first in the nation’ e-bike and moped laws based on speed

Massachusetts lawmakers are considering one of the most comprehensive micromobility regulatory overhauls we’ve seen in the US yet, proposing a new legal framework that would categorize everything from bicycles and e-bikes to electric scooters and Sur Ron-style electric motos into a four-tier speed classification system.

And unlike many recent state proposals that have focused narrowly on restricting e-bikes, the Massachusetts bill appears to be taking a more nuanced – though still fairly aggressive – approach to defining where different types of electric vehicles belong.

more…

Does AI save time in police work?

Technology has been transformative for how police officers do their jobs. Body cameras, speed detection technology and surveillance drones are some prominent examples.

And now, law enforcement departments are trying to figure out if and how they want to add artificial intelligence to the mix.

Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Greg Barber, a science and technology journalist who recently wrote about this for Proof News. He explained how AI is being used in police work now and whether or not AI has become a time-saving tool for officers.

Bullsh*t Ceasefires Everywhere

Watch now | Ben and Tommy break down another chaotic week in foreign policy full of bad ideas and worse outcomes...

Will John Fetterman Go Full Benedict Arnold?

Any re-election campaign in 2028 is doomed. Will he spend the remainder of his term completing the betrayal of his own constituents?

The post Will John Fetterman Go Full Benedict Arnold? appeared first on The American Prospect.

Failing to Read the Room in Maine

As Gov. Janet Mills recovers from her anemic Senate bid, she’ll have to decide how to handle Graham Platner, the all-but-voter-anointed Democratic nominee.

The post Failing to Read the Room in Maine appeared first on The American Prospect.

Establishment Dems and the Self-Fulfilling Prophecy of Moderation

The DCCC endorsed eight moderate candidates, even in races where their progressive challengers have the momentum.

The post Establishment Dems and the Self-Fulfilling Prophecy of Moderation appeared first on The American Prospect.

How the White House ballroom became emblematic of the Trump presidency

Congress may now put $1 billion toward the ballroom project, which has so far been funded through private donations. It reflects President Donald Trump’s effort to leave a physical legacy as well as meet a genuine need.

REALLY Quick Charge: Greenlane CEO talks expansion, deals, and more

On this really quick episode of Quick Charge, Greenlane announces it’s taking its heavy-duty EV truck charging network beyond California, and bringing diesel-level charging access straight into one of the busiest freight corridors in Texas.

more…

Toyota Hino debut new Le Series electric MD trucks at ACT Expo

Toyota subsidiary Hino Trucks is following in the steps of the noble Renault Le Car with the all-new, all-electric Le Series of medium-duty commercial trucks – and the new Le Series packs a GVWR worth nearly sixteen of the tiny French minis!

more…

EXCLUSIVE: Michigan Graduation Speaker Who Honored Pro-Palestine Students Speaks Out Amid Backlash

Professor Derek Peterson says his own university is not telling the truth about a key part of his speech, helping put a target on his back.

Rivian (RIVN) mulls making its own lidar as it builds full autonomous driving stack

Rivian is considering manufacturing its own lidar sensors in the United States, potentially through a partnership with Chinese firms, as the EV maker aggressively vertically integrates its entire autonomous driving stack.

The move would add in-house lidar production to an autonomy strategy that already includes custom silicon chips and proprietary AI software — positioning Rivian as one of the most vertically integrated players in autonomous driving outside of Tesla and Waymo.

more…