A new Harris Poll shows that nearly two-thirds of Americans believe the US is in a recession, even though the official economic measure says it is not. Many people notice higher prices and weak job growth, which makes them feel the economy is struggling.
Key Facts
Nearly 66% of Americans think the US is in a recession.
Officially, a recession means two quarters of negative economic growth, which hasn’t happened.
People report feeling economic stress with rising costs and slow job market growth.
The Guardian and Harris Poll asked Americans to share their personal signs of a recession.
Respondents can describe their experience anonymously and securely through an online form.
The poll aims to gather everyday examples from communities, stores, schools, and workplaces.
Personal recession indicators are things people notice that suggest a slowdown is coming.
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Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela's former leader, and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in a New York court to plead not guilty to new charges of conspiracy to commit torture. They were captured by US forces in January and face additional accusations, including drug trafficking and narcoterrorism, with a trial set for June 2027.
Key Facts
Maduro and Flores were arrested in January during a US military raid and taken to New York.
They denied torture charges and other accusations, claiming sovereign immunity as leaders of Venezuela.
The new indictment accuses them of running a violent repression system causing deaths, harassment, and torture of thousands of Venezuelans.
Reported torture methods include electric shock, asphyxiation, rape, forced nudity, isolation, starvation, and psychological abuse.
US prosecutors claim Maduro authorized torture of specific individuals, including some US citizens.
Maduro and Flores previously faced charges related to cocaine trafficking and working with terrorist-labelled drug cartels.
Flores requested release on bond citing health problems but was denied.
Their trial is scheduled for June 2027 in federal court in New York.
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Latin music is growing in popularity, reaching more listeners than ever in the U.S. and increasing music revenue in Latin America. Salsa, a style of Latin music with deep cultural roots, continues to stay relevant by honoring its history while attracting new audiences worldwide.
Key Facts
In early 2026, 54% of U.S. listeners said they casually listened to Latin music monthly, a record high.
Latin America’s recorded music revenue grew 17.1% in 2025, marking 16 years of steady growth.
Streaming made up 88.1% of Latin America’s music revenue in 2025.
Salsa music’s history comes from African, Caribbean, Cuban, Puerto Rican, and New York Latino communities.
Oscar Hernández, pianist and director of the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, learned salsa from legendary musicians like Tito Puente and Celia Cruz.
Hernández has won four Grammy Awards and worked with famous artists including Rubén Blades, Paul Simon, and Gloria Estefan.
The Spanish Harlem Orchestra balances keeping salsa’s traditional sound while updating it for new audiences.
A 2026 collaboration with conductor Gustavo Dudamel and the New York Philharmonic brought salsa to audiences who had never attended a classical concert before.
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Federal investigators, including the FBI and Postal Inspection Service, are looking into suspicious letters sent to state election offices and congressional offices. Some letters contained unknown white powder, but no harm has been reported, and authorities are working to find who is responsible.
Key Facts
Suspicious letters with unknown substances were sent to election officials and congressional offices across the U.S.
The FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service are leading the investigation.
Letters were sent to secretary of state offices and election offices in multiple states.
Some letters contained white powder, which tested safe and caused no injuries.
Offices targeted include Senator Chris Murphy’s office and top election officials in Louisiana and Oklahoma.
The incidents happened less than three weeks before the 2024 midterm elections.
Law enforcement agencies are working together to investigate and secure safety.
Officials have intercepted some letters but have not disclosed the total number or possible connections yet.
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President Donald Trump hosted a lunch in the Rose Garden to honor first responders such as police officers and firefighters. Representatives from national groups like the Fraternal Order of Police and the International Association of Fire Fighters attended the event.
Key Facts
The lunch took place in the White House Rose Garden.
President Trump was the host of the event.
The event honored first responders, including law enforcement officers and firefighters.
Attendees included members from the Fraternal Order of Police.
The International Association of Fire Fighters also sent representatives.
The National Sheriffs’ Association was another group present.
The event aimed to recognize the work and dedication of these public safety groups.
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An Egyptian farmer named Khaled al-Shahat found a large pink granite stone on his land, which led archaeologists to dig up parts of statues belonging to King Ramses II. These discoveries, including a giant statue head and other pieces, are helping experts learn more about ancient Egypt and its history.
Key Facts
Khaled al-Shahat found an unusual pink granite stone about 1.3 meters long on his farmland.
The stone had two royal titles of King Ramses II, who ruled Egypt from 1279 B.C. to 1213 B.C.
Archaeologists uncovered a giant statue head about 1.6 meters tall, showing Ramses II wearing the double crown.
The statue’s size suggests it would have been about 28 feet tall when complete.
A second large statue, missing parts like legs and base, was also found nearby.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities honored Khaled al-Shahat with a certificate and a trip to Saudi Arabia for his honesty in reporting the find.
Excavations are ongoing to study the statues and learn more about the history and architecture of the area.
The discovery may change what experts know about the history of this region in the Nile Delta.
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A new poll shows that 80 percent of registered voters want big changes in how the U.S. government works before the midterm elections. This desire for change is strong across political groups, including Democrats, independents, and Republicans.
Key Facts
80 percent of registered voters want major changes in Washington.
Voters expressed a need for “complete and total upheaval” or “substantial change.”
97 percent of Democrats support major changes.
90 percent of independents want big changes.
A significant number of Republicans also favor change.
The poll was conducted by AP-NORC.
The timing relates to the upcoming midterm elections.
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Yemen’s Houthis fired multiple missiles at the al-Maashiq presidential palace in Aden, targeting the Saudi-backed government. The attack killed two bodyguards but left key officials unharmed, and it marks a serious escalation in the ongoing conflict between the Houthis and government forces.
Key Facts
The Houthis launched five missiles targeting the al-Maashiq presidential palace in Aden.
Two bodyguards were killed; the prime minister and other officials were reported safe.
The palace is the base for Yemen’s internationally recognized, Saudi-backed government.
This missile attack is the first of its kind directly on the government headquarters.
Fighting continues in Taiz city, a strategic area under Houthi siege, crucial for control of a key shipping route.
Pro-government forces are defending Dhubab airport against a Houthi attack in Taiz governorate.
The Saudi-led coalition reports over 20 Houthi attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport and other infrastructure in 11 days, causing deaths and injuries.
The coalition accused the Houthis of receiving ballistic missiles from other regional countries.
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President Donald Trump said he still fully trusts White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, but there are reports that he is thinking about replacing her soon. Several potential successors have been mentioned, including White House officials and outside figures, amid political uncertainty before the November 3 midterm elections.
Key Facts
Susie Wiles is the White House Chief of Staff and the first woman to hold this position.
President Trump appointed Wiles after winning the 2024 presidential election.
Trump publicly stated he has full confidence in Wiles and denied plans to remove her.
Despite this, reports say Trump has discussed Wiles’ future and possible replacements with advisers.
Speculated replacements include Stephen Miller, Randy Levine, Steve Witkoff, Bill Pulte, and Kevin McCarthy.
Stephen Miller is deputy chief of staff and has helped lead Trump’s immigration policies.
Randy Levine is the president of the New York Yankees and linked to Trump’s business and politics.
Steve Witkoff is a special envoy for peace missions who helped negotiate peace deals involving the Middle East.
These developments come ahead of the 2026 midterm elections where Republicans are trying to keep control of Congress.
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Researchers at the University of Geneva studied how an all-plant-based diet affected mice. They found that within days, the mice had changes in liver function and less motivation for physical activity, but these effects reversed after returning to an animal-based diet.
Key Facts
The study compared mice on a lactovegetarian diet (plant and animal proteins) to those on a vegan diet.
Mice on the vegan diet had lower glucose production in the liver after two days.
These mice also showed less spontaneous physical activity, such as less running.
The vegan diet reduced production of the enzyme glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), leading to ammonia buildup.
Effects on mice reversed quickly after switching back to an animal-based protein diet (casein/whey).
Long-term vegan diets in mice led to reduced vitamin B12, iron, and protein supply causing fatigue.
Experts warn mouse results do not predict human health because humans and mice process nutrients differently.
Human studies generally show plant-based diets improve blood sugar control and liver health.
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The Guardian is asking people to share their experiences using artificial intelligence (AI) to help with online dating. They want to know what worked well and what did not when using AI tools like chat helpers or social advice.
Key Facts
The Guardian invites people aged 18 or over to share how they have used AI for online dating.
They are interested in learning about different uses, such as AI-generated chat lines or social coaching.
Responses can be anonymous and are collected through an encrypted, secure form.
Personal data will only be used for this feature and deleted afterward.
Participants can include details about themselves, upload a photo, and decide if their story can be published.
Contact details are optional but helpful for follow-up questions.
The Guardian offers alternatives for secure, anonymous communication.
This is a request for user experiences, not a news story or report on AI technology itself.
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Social Security benefits will increase by 3.6% in 2027, raising retirees' monthly payments. Additionally, the maximum income subject to Social Security taxes will go up, meaning some workers will pay more in payroll taxes next year.
Key Facts
Social Security benefits will increase by 3.6% starting in January 2027.
The average monthly benefit for retirees will rise from $2,095 to about $2,170.
Nearly 72 million people receiving Social Security benefits will get this increase.
The maximum income taxed for Social Security will increase from $184,500 in 2026 to $192,300 in 2027.
Employees pay 6.2% Social Security tax on income up to the maximum taxable earnings.
Workers under full retirement age can earn up to $25,560 in 2027 before some Social Security benefits are reduced, up from $24,480 in 2026.
Social Security uses the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI-W) to calculate cost-of-living adjustments.
The increase in benefits may be offset by higher Medicare premiums and living costs.
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Many Americans are traveling to Tijuana, Mexico, to get cosmetic treatments like Botox and laser procedures at much lower prices than in the United States. While these trips save money, experts warn there are risks involved, similar to treatments done in the U.S.
Key Facts
Americans are seeking cheaper cosmetic treatments in Tijuana due to high healthcare and living costs in the U.S.
Common services include Botox injections, laser treatments, facials, and other beauty procedures.
Prices in Tijuana can be much lower; for example, CO2 laser treatments cost about $220 there versus $1,800 in the U.S.
The lower prices are mainly due to cheaper labor costs, while providers say the products and quality are the same.
About 70% of patients at Lipo Tijuana VIP, a popular medical spa, come from the U.S.
Travelers generally find the overall cost, including airfare and hotels, still cheaper than similar treatments at home.
Some patients appreciate the chance to afford cosmetic care they otherwise could not.
Experts caution that getting cosmetic procedures abroad carries health risks, just like in the U.S.
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Telehealth services are growing, especially for mental health patients, but doctors may struggle to fully understand patients through video alone. Researchers are exploring if artificial intelligence (AI) can help by reading facial expressions to better interpret emotions, though privacy and accuracy concerns remain.
Key Facts
Over half (52.1%) of telehealth visits in early 2026 involved mental health conditions.
About 36% of patients worried about data security and privacy during online therapy.
Nonverbal cues like facial expressions and eye contact help doctors understand patients but are harder to read through video calls.
Some studies link behaviors like nodding and leaning forward with good communication in telehealth.
Emotional AI uses technology to analyze facial movements and voice to identify possible feelings.
AI should assist doctors, not replace their judgment, since facial cues don’t always show true emotions.
There are concerns about privacy and the misuse of emotional AI for surveillance or control.
The European Union restricts some AI tools that guess emotions in workplaces but allows exceptions for healthcare.
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Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama rejected calls to quit amid ongoing student protests against corruption and a luxury resort linked to President Donald Trump’s son-in-law. Demonstrations turned violent in the capital Tirana, with clashes between protesters and police causing damage and injuries.
Key Facts
Protests in Albania’s capital, Tirana, have continued for three days with thousands of participants.
Demonstrators are angry about corruption and the sale of coastal land to a luxury resort linked to Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law.
Police used water cannons, tear gas, and batons to control the crowds.
Government buildings and public property were damaged, including burnt bins and broken bus stops.
At least 65 people were arrested and 89 were treated for injuries, including police officers.
Prime Minister Edi Rama denied corruption allegations and said he will not resign.
Protests have spread to smaller cities, with students boycotting universities.
Rama emphasized continuing European Union membership talks despite the unrest.
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Large amounts of money are being spent on the Texas Senate race as Democrats try to win a seat in a Republican area. Elon Musk has donated hundreds of millions of dollars to support Republican candidates, including Ken Paxton, who is competing against Democrat James Talarico in this close race.
Key Facts
Elon Musk donated $158 million to the Senate Leadership Fund in September, more than half of their total fundraising that quarter.
Musk also gave $10 million to Lone Star Liberty Pac, which supports Republican Ken Paxton.
Democrat James Talarico raised $64 million in the third quarter, the largest ever for a Senate candidate in that period.
Polls show Paxton and Talarico are tied or Talarico is slightly ahead.
The Texas Senate race is very competitive and expected to cost between $150 million and $200 million.
Donald Trump personally chose Paxton as the Republican candidate.
Musk’s donations in the 2025-2026 election cycle have reached about $366 million, more than during the 2024 cycle.
Musk’s increased spending came after he initially said he would reduce his political donations.
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Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores appeared in a New York court to face new charges of leading a torture campaign in Venezuela. Both denied the accusations and pleaded not guilty as the court plans to set a trial date.
Key Facts
Nicolás Maduro and his wife were brought to court in New York after being captured in a US military raid in January.
They face accusations of running a state-sponsored system that tortured many victims, including Americans.
Maduro denied the charges, calling them false during the court appearance.
The indictment claims Maduro personally recommended torture methods and threatened victims.
Cilia Flores, a former attorney general, is also accused of ordering torture and denied guilt.
Maduro was Venezuela’s president from 2013 until his capture in 2024.
Prosecutors asked to move the trial date from June 1 to June 14.
Torture is illegal under international law and can be prosecuted anywhere, but cases against foreign officials in the US are rare.
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James Talarico, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Texas, has a girlfriend named Brianna Menard, who works as a political director at the Texas Medical Association and was once his chief of staff. The Senate race against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is close, with recent polls showing Talarico slightly ahead.
Key Facts
Brianna Menard is the political director at the Texas Medical Association and formerly was James Talarico’s chief of staff.
Menard is linked to Michel Branamour Menard, a historical figure who founded Galveston and signed the Texas Declaration of Independence.
Menard studied government at the University of Texas at Austin and has about ten years’ experience working in the Texas legislature.
She leads TEXPAC, a bipartisan political committee that supports medical-friendly candidates.
James Talarico and Brianna Menard started dating in 2023.
Talarico’s campaign states he is not a vegan, despite Menard being a committed vegan.
Polls show Talarico slightly ahead of Paxton, with younger voters strongly supporting Talarico and older voters favoring Paxton.
Some conservative groups have examined Talarico’s past relationships with legislative staff members.
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Lubna Speitan, a British-Palestinian member of the Green Party, has received death and rape threats after the party passed a motion declaring Zionism as a form of racism. The motion, which supports Palestinian rights and challenges the connection between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism, has caused strong reactions from other UK political parties and public figures.
Key Facts
Lubna Speitan received threats online after the Green Party passed a motion calling Zionism racism.
She reported these threats to the police and believes they are meant to intimidate her.
The motion passed with 1,022 votes to 813 at the Green Party conference.
Other UK parties and politicians, including Prime Minister Andy Burnham, criticized the motion as wrong and anti-Semitic.
The motion supports Palestinian self-determination and a single democratic state for Muslims and Jews in historic Palestine.
It clarifies that not all Jews are Zionists and targets the ideology of Zionism, not Jewish people.
Speitan denies media accusations linking her to terrorism and calls those allegations guilt by association.
The Green Party is investigating members’ views that conflict with party values.
The UN once passed, then repealed, a resolution declaring Zionism a form of racism.
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A federal court assigned a Trump-appointed judge from Ohio, Douglas R. Cole, to oversee Senator Marsha Blackburn’s lawsuit against special counsel Jack Smith after all Tennessee district judges recused themselves. The lawsuit claims that Smith illegally obtained Blackburn’s phone records during his investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election.
Key Facts
Senator Marsha Blackburn sued Jack Smith, alleging unlawful retrieval of her phone records.
The lawsuit challenges investigative actions taken by Smith regarding the 2020 election.
All four active district judges in Middle Tennessee recused themselves from the case.
Chief Judge Raymond M. Kethledge of the Sixth Circuit appointed Judge Douglas R. Cole from Ohio to handle the case.
The Middle Tennessee district judges who recused were appointed by presidents from both parties.
No public explanation was given for why the Tennessee judges recused themselves.
The lawsuit remains filed in Tennessee but will be overseen by an outside judge.
The Justice Department declined to comment due to ongoing litigation.
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