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US democracy? Good question. This was the first SOTU address since the Jan 6 Capitol riot. And with democracy under attack abroad, it's worth not taking ours for granted. Here's what Biden had to say about…
Ukraine…Biden kicked off his speech calling out Russian President Vladimir Putin — earning a standing ovation from both parties. He praised Ukrainians for "their fearlessness, their courage." He also took cues from at least two dozen countries and is closing US airspace to Russian planes. Now, he's coming for the oligarchs. And while sanctions are directed at Russia, the US and allies are releasing 60 million barrels of oil from reserves. The goal: to help protect...
The economy…Biden loves a good comeback, shouting out the highest growth rate in nearly 40 years. But guess what's also the highest in 40 years? Inflation. With wallets hurting, Biden says he wants to see more "Made in America" stickers. He also wants a higher minimum wage and reduced child care costs, nodding to the millions of women who left the workforce during the pandemic.
The pandemic…Severe cases are back to summer 2021 levels. And the CDCsays many Americans can go mask-free. New variants could come. But vaccines, antivirals, and tests are helping.Speaking of, free refills on tests next week.
Other talkers…46 wants to reduce health care costs, end cancer, and preserve women's right to choose. He's tired of gun manufacturers avoiding lawsuits. And made it clear he wants "to fund the police." Other big takeaways: $15 minimum wage is in. Social media companies are out. What didn't get a mention: dropped campaign promises like wiping out $10,000 in federal student loans.
What was the reaction?
Love from some Dems...but not all. In the GOP rebuttal, Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) criticized Biden for his handling of things like inflation, foreign policy, and COVID-19 mandatessaying he "sent us back in time." Meanwhile, as Biden was discussing veterans during his speech, Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) was heard yelling "13" — in reference to the 13 US service members who died during the Afghanistan withdrawal.
theSkimm
Biden described the state of the union this year as strong because "the American people are strong." But the speech came amid a war over democracy in Europe, rampant inflation, and an ongoing pandemic. Whether voters agree on Biden's assessment will be up for a vote in November.
The Fight Continues
It's been one week since Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. Here's where things stand on the…
War front: The UN says at least 102 civilians have been killed in Ukraine, but fears the death toll could be higher. In Kharkiv, the central Freedom Square was bombarded. Ukraine accused Russia of bombing a Holocaust memorial and TV tower, killing at least five people. Meanwhile, a 40-mile-long Russian convoy is stalled less than 20 miles north of the city, possibly running low on food and fuel.
Diplomatic front: About 100 diplomats walked out at the UN Human Rights Council during the Russian foreign minister's speech — in which he accused Ukraine of looking to acquire nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy got a standing ovation after his speech to the European Parliament — where he urged they grant Ukraine membership into the EU. Meanwhile, Russia said it's ready to resume talks with Ukraine today.
…Oh and if you feel like all of this news is weighing on you, let's talk about ways to address your emotions (and stop doomscrolling).
Georgia. Earlier this week, a federal judge ruled that the state's maps can stay in place for this year's elections. Last year, Gov. Brian Kemp (R) signed the maps into law after the 2020 census. But groups sued, saying the maps discriminate against voters of color. GA's Black population reportedly grew by 500,000 over the last decade. Now, apparently, only four of the 14 congressional districts have a Black majority of voters…the same as before redistricting. The judge says the concerns with the maps may be legit but there's not enough time to update them before primaries in May.
…Oh and speaking of elections, Texas's GOP primaries are testing the state's voters on how right (read: Trump) they are willing to go.
PS:Here's how congressional redistricting could impact your vote in the midterms.
Who's saying 'strike, you're out'...
The MLB. Yesterday, the league and the players' union failed to agree on a new collective bargaining agreement. The two have been on the outs for a while — with the players' union pushing for a better payment structure. Back in December, the league locked out the players from playing — and getting paid. And Opening Day was set to kick off on March 31. But now, if the regular season games are canceled, it'd be the first time it's happened because of a work stoppage since 1995. Players could lose a collective $20.5 million in salary for each day the season is canceled. Talk about a diamond in the rough.
What has the audacity during Women's History Month…
This preliminary study. It reportedly found that entering menopause before the age of 40 could be linked to a 35% higher risk of developing dementia later in life. One of the study's authors said it could come down to estrogen. The hormone plummets when menopause hits, which can add to the body's stress. The study, yet to be published, will be presented at a conference later this week.
When you're looking for ways to procrastinate even longer...
Still not sure which Instagram-worthy health hacks are fact or fiction? Join us tonight at 7:30pm ET for our next SkimmU Well course: Food For Thought with registered dietitians and founders of "Food Heaven'' Jessica Jones and Wendy Lopez. We're talking all things food — like how health and nutrition are unique to everyone and what info out there is reliable. And stick around for our post-course panel discussion with Dalina Soto, registered dietitian and positive health advocate. In the kitchen, wrist twistin' (make) a stir fry. Sign up and then chef it up.
Legendary Sleep
Listening to certain sounds can regulate your heart rate, slow your breathing, lower your blood pressure, and ease stress. In other words, lull you to Zzz and help you get quality sleep.
Headspace is about that life. Which is why they teamed up with international superstar John Legend on a new playlist full of ambient, instrumental music John himself listens to before bed. Plus a 'sleepcast' where his soothing voice will guide you through a quiet concert hall after-hours. Translation: Even though he's a happily married man, now you can sleep with John Legend. Well, sort of. Sign up here to start a free Headspace trial.
Skimm Life
If transforming your home into a place chock-full of things that'll help you live your smartest life sounds enticing, listen up. We've got recs to level-up your space, plus some gift options you may just wanna buy for yourself too:
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. How to be sure your clean beauty products are actually clean. One word: Sephora. They make it easy to find makeup, skincare, hair care, and fragrances that meet their industry-leading standards. (Which go above and beyond what the gov requires, btw.) See for yourself.*
2.A guide to juggling love and money. Because it can be tricky. But TD Bank's annual survey will show you how other couples approach it. And our tips can help you stay on the same page as your partner(s). How romantic.*
3.The shacket you need this spring. Psst…that's shirt x jacket. And this brand's oversized ones are suuuper soft. And sustainably made. They're perfect for layering over any outfit on breezy days and chilly nights. PS: Skimm'rs get 20% off.*
4.Freshly cooked dog food that'll get your pup's tail wagging. And save you a grocery trip. This brand will deliver their nutritious, delicious, vet-crafted meals right to your door. All you gotta do is scoop and serve. PS: Skimm'rs get 60% off their first box.*
5.Something stimulating to add to your nightstand. This bestselling Lelo vibrator uses sonic wave technology to help you reach your (cli)max potential. It's easy to master, but hard to give up. Plus Skimm'rs get 30% off with code SKIMM30. Don't say we didn't warn you.*
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Cool beans…Sahra N (NY). She's bringing the best of sustainably sourced Vietnamese coffee to your doorstep. All while building a more equitable future for women. Order up.*
(Some) Birthdays…theSkimm's Kelsey Dobbs (CT), Susan Danilow (NY), Robert Connelly (NY), Keshia Ashe (VA), Monica Roman (NJ), Emily Hernandez (NY), Kate Sego (AR), Cassandra Eattock (NJ), Mallory Beane (OH), Heather Hartley (IA), Sami Zoss (SD), Joan Tonning Hug (TN), Courtney Saffie (NC), Caitlan Kern (WA), Kimberly Silva (NJ)
Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm More
Egg freezing might sound a little daunting, but we've got you covered. Watch our vid on what happens to your body during the egg freezing process and some side effects to be aware of. Because whether you want a family now, later or aren't sure, knowing your options is a good place to start.
And if you're looking for other smart ways to spend your time...
Listentoour news podcast "Skimm This" for clarity on the biggest stories of the week.
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