Why You Should Be Grateful For Scientists This Thanksgiving

Science and Health

Thanksgiving approaches. There is finally a chill in the air and snow flying around in some places. Debates rage on at this time of year. What teams should be in the college football playoffs? Which is better pumpkin or sweet potato pie? By the way, I am from Georgia, so it is sweet potato pie, and there is no argument here (smile). Something that should not be a debate at all is the value that sound science brings to each of our lives. Here’s why you should be grateful for scientists on Thanksgiving (and beyond).

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – SEPTEMBER 09: Sylvester Fisher gets a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot from … [+] pharmacist Patricia Pernal during an event hosted by the Chicago Department of Public Health at the Southwest Senior Center on September 09, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. The recently authorized booster vaccine protects against the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and the more recent omicron variants, BA.4 and BA.5. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)Getty Images
I was prompted to write these thoughts down after seeing recent articles discussing possible plans to sow distrust or greater uncertainty about climate change. That simple tactic is likely rooted in more complexity. For example, studies have consistently shown that people with less formal education skew more skeptical on climate change and are more likely to not trust climate scientists. A 2024 study suggested these findings may be related to feelings of being misrecognized by more-educated people, envious of their lifestyles, and frustrated by their attitudes.

The study concluded that trust in climate change science and the solution set by certain segments of society amplifies feelings of lower social status. In psychology, these feelings of insecurity or inadequacy are referred to as an inferiority complex. Though framed around climate change, I observe these same dynamics in narratives around vaccines or adoption of electric vehicles. The deep anger lobbed at those who have chosen to adopt EVs has always baffled me, but this new study offers clues.
TOPSHOT – A driver charges his electric vehicle at a charging station as the California Independent … [+] System Operator announced a statewide electricity Flex Alert urging conservation to avoid blackouts in Monterey Park, California on August 31, 2022. Californians were told August 31, 2022 not to charge their electric vehicles during peak hours, just days after the state said it would stop selling gas-powered cars, as the aging electricity grid struggles with a fearsome heatwave. Temperatures as high as 112 degrees Fahrenheit (44 degrees Celsius) were forecast in some Los Angeles suburbs as a huge heat dome bakes a swathe of the western United States. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)AFP via Getty Images

Another factor driving trust in climate science is “marinades.” I often soak my meat or vegetables in marinades so that they take on additional flavor. Each of us has been “soaking” in geographical, cultural, religious, political, and other marinades all our lives. Studies suggest that flavoring can shape views on science. As a climate scientist, you would be stunned by how many people have told me that humans cannot change something that God controls. Oddly, some of those same people were claiming that the government can control hurricanes now.

As a scientist of faith, I was always baffled by that logic especially when I read scriptures about stewardship of Earth. Summarizing a 2023 study, Naseem Miller wrote an interesting take in The Journalist’s Resource. He said, “A PLOS Climate study, based on a survey of 2,096 registered U.S. voters, finds trust in university research centers was higher among voters under 30, non-Protestants, regular religious service attendees, Democrats, and ideologically moderate or liberal individuals.” These findings support a long thread of research. However, it is still baffling. Photosynthesis, planetary orbits, hurricanes, and nuclear reactors work the same no matter how you vote or what you believe.

IN SPACE – OCTOBER 8: (EDITOR’S NOTE: This Handout image was provided by a third-party organization … [+] and may not adhere to Getty Images’ editorial policy.) In this NASA handout, Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm at the time of this photograph, is pictured in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Yucatan Peninsula on October 8, 2024 seen from the International Space Station as it orbited 257 miles above. (Photo by NASA via Getty Images)Getty Images
Another tactic in sowing distrust is the “either/or” approach. Climate change opposition is often steeped in statements like “climate always changed” or “look its cold today and snowing.” These statements illustrate a lack of understanding of weather, climate, and why we have seasons. They also assume “either/or.” In fact, grass grows naturally, but if you fertilize your lawn, it grows differently. Yes, the climate (and weather) varies naturally, but it is now fertilized with the consequences of human emissions and land cover changes too. It’s “and.”
After the U.S. election, I am seeing another “either/or” approach. A narrative is emerging that it costs too much to fight climate change so the money should be spent ending global poverty through energy. Absolutely nobody will argue against ending global poverty. I am here for that. I am also here for the fact that we can do both and fight climate change. They are not mutually exclusive by the way. As I write this piece, 16 million people in southern Africa are constrained by a combination drought, food insecurity, and economic instability.Somali refugees put water containers for the water distribution by French charity Doctors Without … [+] Borders (MSF) in the Dadaab refugee camp, one of Africa’s largest refugee camps in Kenya, on March 23, 2023. – Between 400 and 500 people arrive at Dadaab every day, according to the UN refugee agency UNHCR, mostly driven from Somalia after five consecutive seasons of failed rains. The World Health Organization says this drought, already the worst in 40 years, could result in the deaths of 135 people in Somalia every day between January and June this year. (Photo by Bobb Muriithi / AFP) (Photo by BOBB MURIITHI/AFP via Getty Images)AFP via Getty Images
Researchers at the University of Texas and University of Utah found that unusually dry growing seasons is an underlying driver of migration from Central America to the U.S. Andrew Linke from the Geography Department at the University of Utah was the lead author on the study. In a University of Texas press release, he noted, “In our analysis, we find a robust association between drier than normal weather and families making the perilous journey from Central America to the United States, even after taking into account other drivers like violence and poverty.”Figure 2 from the article shows the emigration rates from departments from the region during this … [+] period. Emigration rates from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras departments (N = 54) to the southern US border according to US Border Patrol intake interview data (A). Darker regions have higher emigration rates. Over time, emigration rates generally increase but illustrate some temporal and regional variation between 2012 and 2018 (B).University of Texas LBJ School Press Release
The good news is that a Pew Research Center survey in October found that roughly three out of four Americans have a great deal or fair amount of confidence that scientists are working in the best interest of society. Trust numbers have increased but remain lower than the pandemic years. The survey found that the public thinks scientists are intelligent and addressing important problems but lack communication skills. They also remain split on how much scientists should engage in policy.
I recently discussed cultivating trust in the publication Issues in Science and Technology. I said, “Cultivating trust in science requires commitment to the same basic principles that make strong leaders: authenticity, empathy, and logic. Though scholars are taught to be good researchers steeped in theory, methods, and scholarly reporting, I continually advocate for a more evolved approach in training the next generation of scientists, with the recognition that they will become the next generation of science leaders.” As scientists we are trained in theory, experiments, data and inquiry. We must step up our game in empathy, authenticity, and communication.
This Thanksgiving I am thankful for scientists and those who value credible science.

Why You Should Be Grateful For Scientists This Thanksgiving

Science and Health

Thanksgiving approaches. There is finally a chill in the air and snow flying around in some places. Debates rage on at this time of year. What teams should be in the college football playoffs? Which is better pumpkin or sweet potato pie? By the way, I am from Georgia, so it is sweet potato pie, and there is no argument here (smile). Something that should not be a debate at all is the value that sound science brings to each of our lives. Here’s why you should be grateful for scientists on Thanksgiving (and beyond).

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – SEPTEMBER 09: Sylvester Fisher gets a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot from … [+] pharmacist Patricia Pernal during an event hosted by the Chicago Department of Public Health at the Southwest Senior Center on September 09, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. The recently authorized booster vaccine protects against the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and the more recent omicron variants, BA.4 and BA.5. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)Getty Images
I was prompted to write these thoughts down after seeing recent articles discussing possible plans to sow distrust or greater uncertainty about climate change. That simple tactic is likely rooted in more complexity. For example, studies have consistently shown that people with less formal education skew more skeptical on climate change and are more likely to not trust climate scientists. A 2024 study suggested these findings may be related to feelings of being misrecognized by more-educated people, envious of their lifestyles, and frustrated by their attitudes.

The study concluded that trust in climate change science and the solution set by certain segments of society amplifies feelings of lower social status. In psychology, these feelings of insecurity or inadequacy are referred to as an inferiority complex. Though framed around climate change, I observe these same dynamics in narratives around vaccines or adoption of electric vehicles. The deep anger lobbed at those who have chosen to adopt EVs has always baffled me, but this new study offers clues.
TOPSHOT – A driver charges his electric vehicle at a charging station as the California Independent … [+] System Operator announced a statewide electricity Flex Alert urging conservation to avoid blackouts in Monterey Park, California on August 31, 2022. Californians were told August 31, 2022 not to charge their electric vehicles during peak hours, just days after the state said it would stop selling gas-powered cars, as the aging electricity grid struggles with a fearsome heatwave. Temperatures as high as 112 degrees Fahrenheit (44 degrees Celsius) were forecast in some Los Angeles suburbs as a huge heat dome bakes a swathe of the western United States. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)AFP via Getty Images

Another factor driving trust in climate science is “marinades.” I often soak my meat or vegetables in marinades so that they take on additional flavor. Each of us has been “soaking” in geographical, cultural, religious, political, and other marinades all our lives. Studies suggest that flavoring can shape views on science. As a climate scientist, you would be stunned by how many people have told me that humans cannot change something that God controls. Oddly, some of those same people were claiming that the government can control hurricanes now.

As a scientist of faith, I was always baffled by that logic especially when I read scriptures about stewardship of Earth. Summarizing a 2023 study, Naseem Miller wrote an interesting take in The Journalist’s Resource. He said, “A PLOS Climate study, based on a survey of 2,096 registered U.S. voters, finds trust in university research centers was higher among voters under 30, non-Protestants, regular religious service attendees, Democrats, and ideologically moderate or liberal individuals.” These findings support a long thread of research. However, it is still baffling. Photosynthesis, planetary orbits, hurricanes, and nuclear reactors work the same no matter how you vote or what you believe.

IN SPACE – OCTOBER 8: (EDITOR’S NOTE: This Handout image was provided by a third-party organization … [+] and may not adhere to Getty Images’ editorial policy.) In this NASA handout, Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm at the time of this photograph, is pictured in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Yucatan Peninsula on October 8, 2024 seen from the International Space Station as it orbited 257 miles above. (Photo by NASA via Getty Images)Getty Images
Another tactic in sowing distrust is the “either/or” approach. Climate change opposition is often steeped in statements like “climate always changed” or “look its cold today and snowing.” These statements illustrate a lack of understanding of weather, climate, and why we have seasons. They also assume “either/or.” In fact, grass grows naturally, but if you fertilize your lawn, it grows differently. Yes, the climate (and weather) varies naturally, but it is now fertilized with the consequences of human emissions and land cover changes too. It’s “and.”
After the U.S. election, I am seeing another “either/or” approach. A narrative is emerging that it costs too much to fight climate change so the money should be spent ending global poverty through energy. Absolutely nobody will argue against ending global poverty. I am here for that. I am also here for the fact that we can do both and fight climate change. They are not mutually exclusive by the way. As I write this piece, 16 million people in southern Africa are constrained by a combination drought, food insecurity, and economic instability.Somali refugees put water containers for the water distribution by French charity Doctors Without … [+] Borders (MSF) in the Dadaab refugee camp, one of Africa’s largest refugee camps in Kenya, on March 23, 2023. – Between 400 and 500 people arrive at Dadaab every day, according to the UN refugee agency UNHCR, mostly driven from Somalia after five consecutive seasons of failed rains. The World Health Organization says this drought, already the worst in 40 years, could result in the deaths of 135 people in Somalia every day between January and June this year. (Photo by Bobb Muriithi / AFP) (Photo by BOBB MURIITHI/AFP via Getty Images)AFP via Getty Images
Researchers at the University of Texas and University of Utah found that unusually dry growing seasons is an underlying driver of migration from Central America to the U.S. Andrew Linke from the Geography Department at the University of Utah was the lead author on the study. In a University of Texas press release, he noted, “In our analysis, we find a robust association between drier than normal weather and families making the perilous journey from Central America to the United States, even after taking into account other drivers like violence and poverty.”Figure 2 from the article shows the emigration rates from departments from the region during this … [+] period. Emigration rates from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras departments (N = 54) to the southern US border according to US Border Patrol intake interview data (A). Darker regions have higher emigration rates. Over time, emigration rates generally increase but illustrate some temporal and regional variation between 2012 and 2018 (B).University of Texas LBJ School Press Release
The good news is that a Pew Research Center survey in October found that roughly three out of four Americans have a great deal or fair amount of confidence that scientists are working in the best interest of society. Trust numbers have increased but remain lower than the pandemic years. The survey found that the public thinks scientists are intelligent and addressing important problems but lack communication skills. They also remain split on how much scientists should engage in policy.
I recently discussed cultivating trust in the publication Issues in Science and Technology. I said, “Cultivating trust in science requires commitment to the same basic principles that make strong leaders: authenticity, empathy, and logic. Though scholars are taught to be good researchers steeped in theory, methods, and scholarly reporting, I continually advocate for a more evolved approach in training the next generation of scientists, with the recognition that they will become the next generation of science leaders.” As scientists we are trained in theory, experiments, data and inquiry. We must step up our game in empathy, authenticity, and communication.
This Thanksgiving I am thankful for scientists and those who value credible science.

Spanish hotels will have to start collecting sensitive details on Brit tourists from next week

Travel

New regulations that demand sensitive information on British tourists is collect by Spanish hotels has been branded as “nuts”. Set to be enforced from Monday, these rules will require hotels, travel agencies, campsites, car rental companies and even accommodation apps to collect comprehensive customer data, including home addresses and bank card details of holidaymakers. The…

15 Things To Do In Chicago This Weekend: Holiday Trolleys, Small Business Saturday, Tree Lightings And More

Business News

CHICAGO — Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend, Black Friday and the holiday season with events across the city.There’s ice skating at Millennium Park, Small Business Saturday markets and celebrations, a holiday market at the National Museum of Mexican Art, “The Wizard of Oz” performances by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, an Irish American Christmas Bazaar and more.There’s also a book launch at the Ukrainian National Museum, an Albanian Independence Day Car Parade and many other events to check out this holiday weekend.Here’s a roundup of 15 things to do in Chicago this weekend:@media ( min-width: 300px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-1{min-height: 100px;}}@media ( min-width: 320px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-1{min-height: 100px;}}@media ( min-width: 728px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-1{min-height: 90px;}}@media ( min-width: 970px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-1{min-height: 90px;}}
All WeekendAlfonso and Kimberly ice skate during the 109th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Millennium Park on Nov. 18, 2022. Credit: Colin Boyle/Block Club ChicagoMillennium Park Ice Skating11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. daily (through Feb. 2)Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St.Skate between the city’s skyscrapers at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, which returned to Millennium Park earlier this month. Skate rentals start at $16; skate aides, skate sharpening and lockers rentals are available for additional fees of $2-$10. Free skating lessons are offered 9-10 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays.Reserve tickets and learn more here.A past Mercado Navideño at the National Museum of Mexican Art. Credit: Provided/National Museum of Mexican ArtMercado Navideño10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-SundayNational Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St.The annual Mexican holiday market features handmade keepsakes from Mexico, including unique Christmas ornaments, nativity scenes, clothing and jewelry. Learn more here.A performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at 220 S. Michigan Ave. Credit: ProvidedThe Wizard Of Oz In Concert7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 3 p.m. SundayChicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave.From “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” to “Follow the Yellow Brick Road,” the Chicago Symphony Orchestra will be performing Herbert Stothart’s “The Wizard of Oz” score as the classic Technicolor film plays on the big screen.@media ( min-width: 300px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-2{min-height: 100px;}}@media ( min-width: 320px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-2{min-height: 100px;}}@media ( min-width: 728px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-2{min-height: 90px;}}@media ( min-width: 970px ){.newspack_global_ad.scaip-2{min-height: 90px;}}
Tickets start at $45. Learn more and buy tickets here.FridayBlack Friday Potluck & Marketplace11 a.m.-4 p.m. FridaySpace Share Lab, 4445 S. King Drive, 2nd Floor (side entrance)Celebrate Thanksgiving and Black Friday weekend at this community event with food, vendors and music. There will be artisans selling hand-crafted jewelry from Maasailand, Kenya and beyond.The event is free to attend. Learn more and RSVP here.Friday After Thanksgiving At Begyle11 a.m.-10 p.m. FridayBegyle Brewing, 1800 W. Cuyler Ave.To celebrate Thanksgiving weekend and the Black Friday spirit, Begyle Brewing is opening an hour early and offering $6 pints of Christmas Ale all day long. There will also be a Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders watch party at 2 p.m., El Zorro tacos 3-8 p.m. and 3-6 p.m. happy hour.Learn more here.Tony Levin Meet-And-Greet4 p.m. FridayReckless Records Wicker Park, 1379 N. Milwaukee Ave.Famed bassist Tony Levin, known for his work with King Crimson and Peter Gabriel, will be at Reckless Records to sign copies of his latest album, “Bringing It Down to the Bass,” including an exclusive espresso-colored double vinyl. Learn more here.Book Launch At Ukrainian National Museum7 p.m. FridayUkrainian National Museum, 2249 W. Superior St.The Ukrainian National Museum is celebrating Thanksgiving weekend with a book launch. Daniel Hryhorczuk will be at the museum to present his new novel, “The Dark Night of the Soul,” and share stories behind his work. Attendees can also purchase a copy and get it signed by the author.Admission is $10.SaturdayBronzeville Small Business Saturday8 a.m.-5 p.m. SaturdayAbsolutely Anything Essential Gift Shop, 3521 S. King DriveChicagoans can support small businesses while enjoying a South Side holiday season kickoff at this Small Business Saturday event, which features more than 20 vendors, service providers and small business owners. There will also be a tree lighting in the evening.Admission is free. There will also be breakfast for an additional $20 and an assorted soap box for $15 with online RSVP. Learn more and sign up online.Ravenswood Holly Jolly Trolley11 a.m.-5 p.m. SaturdayVarious Ravenswood businessesIn honor of Small Business Saturday, the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is bringing back a local tradition: the Holly Jolly Tolley, which takes people through the neighborhood and stops at local stores and artisans to encourage neighbors to shop small.Trolley stops include Hazel Gift Store, Bad Coffee, Chicago Artisan Market, Urban Pooch, Is/Was Brewing, Salsa’s Family Market and Amy’s Candy Bar. Learn more here.Revolution Brewing in Logan Square. Credit: ProvidedLogan Square Makers Market & Bar Hop1-6 p.m. SaturdayVarious Logan Square locationsThis Logan Square Makers Market and Bar Hop returns for Small Business Saturday with 35 vendors selling handmade goods like candles, jewelry, bath products, artwork, knitwear, prints and more. The market doubles as a bar hop across three locations: Revolution Brewing, 2323 N. Milwaukee Ave.; Navigator Taproom, 2211 N. Milwaukee Ave. #100; and Pilot Project Brewing, 2140 N. Milwaukee Ave.The event is free to attend. Learn more here.The Far South CDC Marketplace launched in November 2022. Credit: Maia McDonld/Block Club ChicagoFar South CDC Marketplace3-7 p.m. SaturdayFar South CDC Marketplace, 837 W. 115th St.Chicagoans can shop from nine Black-owned, South Side businesses at this West Pullman marketplace for Small Business Saturday. Alongside local vendors selling everything from clothing to natural hair care to handmade wood carvings, there will also be complimentary holiday photos, doughnuts, hot chocolate, crafts, raffles and more.Participating businesses include Be Original Clothing, Bomb Beauty Boutique, Cherish a Peace of Nature, Cosmic Creole, Javez Java Coffee Roastery, Kraft It Up, Max Candle Co, Naturals by Nette and Vessels of the Paut Neteru.Register for free here.SundayIrish American Christmas Bazaar9 a.m.-7 p.m. SundayIrish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave.The Irish American Heritage Center’s Christmas Bazaar returns with more than 100 vendors selling food, crafts, jewelry and more. There will also be live Irish music and dancing, children’s games, stories and crafts, a visit from Santa, Irish treats and a free gift-wrapping station.The event will kick off with Sunday Mass followed by a traditional Irish breakfast, live music and dancing. Breakfast tickets are $10-$20 online. Learn more here.Edison Park Kringle Krawl11 a.m.-3 p.m. SundayVarious Edison Park locationsEdison Park neighbors can explore their neighborhood with this free, family-friendly holiday event. Starting at Rebel Barbershop, 6700 N. Northwest Highway, “krawlers” will pick up a card and add stickers to it as they visit 17 other participating Edison Park shops, like A+ Italian Steak House, 6674 Apothecary, Tony’s Italian Deli & Subs and more.Once completed, participants can turn their card in at Edison Park Inn, 6715 N. Olmsted Ave., for a pizza party and a chance to win $500. Learn more here.This will be the city’s fifth annual Albanian Independence Parade. Credit: ProvidedAlbanian Independence Day Car ParadeNoon Sunday900 S. Columbus DriveOrganized by the Albanian Community of Illinois, this fifth annual car parade is back on this weekend to celebrate Albanian Independence Day. The parade starts at 900 S. Columbus Drive.Find more information and the full route here.Edgebrook Tree Lighting2-5 p.m. SundayBaird & Warner, 5430 W. Devon Ave., and other locationsEdgebrook neighbors can visit with Santa and write him letters at Baird & Warner, enjoy holiday crafts at Creativo, 6324 N. Central Ave., and conclude the day with a tree lighting 4:45 p.m. at the Edgebrook Triangle.There will also be a Cookie Walk through the neighborhood hosted by Everyday Edgebrook. Learn more and find a list of participating businesses here.Get a free print!

Help us reach our goal of 900 subscribers by Dec. 31 to sustain and expand our coverage and you’ll get a free neighborhood print. There are three ways to qualify: Purchase a new subscription, upgrade your current subscription or gift a subscription. Don’t wait — support Block Club and we’ll send you a print of your choice!

Listen to the Block Club Chicago podcast:‘You Had Me At Truffle’ — How Chicago’s Small Businesses ThrivePrevious EpisodeShow Episodes ListNext EpisodeShow Podcast Information

Wake up with the Washington Examiner: Meet the new senators and get caught up on what those tariffs mean

Technology

Setting up the new SenateThis cycle was always going to be about who won the White House. Every four years, the House and Senate contests are going to take a back seat to the race everyone feels like they must participate in.Republicans weren’t swimming against that tide, but outgoing Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and company had 2024 circled on their calendars as their best chance to regain control of the Senate. They had an opportunity two years ago to chip away at President Joe Biden’s control of the government and watched it slip through their fingers when a crop of subpar candidates struggled to win competitive races.This year, the National Republican Senatorial Committee switched up its tactics, recruited new faces, and hit Democrats right where it hurt the most. Downballot candidates were not as successful as Trump, who won all seven swing states compared to the senators who picked up wins in four of the six contests they saw openings. But those victories were enough to give the GOP a three-seat majority and grease the skids for Trump to get to work.There are 12 new senators coming to Washington next year, six from each party, and our Senate reporters, Samantha-Jo Roth and Ramsey Touchberry, caught up with all of them when they were in town for new member orientation.The focus from each group of senators is slightly different, as might be expected.Republicans are excited about their chance to flex their muscle after spending the last four years in the minority. Democrats under Biden, who also had a friendly House for the first two years of his tenure, approved huge spending legislation along party lines through reconciliation. Now, that tricky budget maneuver is something Republicans can use to trim regulations and work around Democratic opposition to their agenda.Four of the incoming senators turfed Democrats from their seats, whether they were choosing not to run, as Sen. Joe Manchin (I-WV) did, or in hard-fought contests that sharpened the political knives that they will be expected to pull out, even if the upper chamber is more collegial than the House.Sen.-elect Bernie Moreno (R-OH) will even have some added responsibility shortly when he becomes the senior senator from his state as soon as he takes office, as Vice President-elect J.D. Vance (R-OH) has to resign his seat.Democrats are touting the diversity of their new recruits, who are walking into a government dominated by the opposition, and where they will have to find out what it means to govern from a position of weakness.Despite the disadvantages of working in opposition, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said he is confident that the “cross-section of life experiences and perspectives” is going to set up an opportunity for all of the new members to “flourish.”Several of the new Democratic senators are Washington veterans.Sen.-elect Adam Schiff (D-CA) made a name for himself as a fierce Trump foe during the then-president’s first impeachment.Also coming across the building from the House is Sen.-elect Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), who might have put the nail in Kari Lake’s political coffin by handing her her second loss in as many cycles.Click here to read more about the new senators poised to help and hurt Trump’s agenda.Tariff troubleIt did not take even a month for Trump to make good on his promise to start slapping tariffs on trading partners to leverage concessions he wants. On the campaign trail, he talked about what a “beautiful” word tariff was. He railed against trade deficits and promised he would toss around America’s weight on the world stage to get his way.The first targets of his tariff regime were, literally, the country’s closest trading partners. On Monday night, Trump promised to put 25% tariffs on all goods coming into the country from Canada and Mexico.It was not a total surprise move from the president-elect, who used trade as a cudgel against both nations during his first term and crowed about his success in reforming the North American Free Trade Agreement in a way to better suit the United States.But the move still raised questions about whether he was allowed to move unilaterally and why he included Canada when his primary concern appeared to be about illegal drugs and immigrants flowing into the country — a problem associated more with the southern border than the north.Economics and business reporter Zach Halaschak has put together a handy guide to answer those questions and help make sense of the tariff moves already underway and explain how to think about the moves still to come, as Trump has promised that more tariffs on China are on the horizon.Trump’s win cannot be chalked up to concerns about the southern border, but the chaos there played a huge role, and exerting pressure on Mexico to do more to stem the tide of illegal movement of people and drugs across the border was expected. The problems at the northern border are not at the same scale as those on the southern border, but Trump’s “border czar,” Tom Homan, is not ignoring either port of entry.

Wake up with the Washington Examiner: Meet the new senators and get caught up on what those tariffs mean

Technology

Setting up the new SenateThis cycle was always going to be about who won the White House. Every four years, the House and Senate contests are going to take a back seat to the race everyone feels like they must participate in.Republicans weren’t swimming against that tide, but outgoing Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and company had 2024 circled on their calendars as their best chance to regain control of the Senate. They had an opportunity two years ago to chip away at President Joe Biden’s control of the government and watched it slip through their fingers when a crop of subpar candidates struggled to win competitive races.This year, the National Republican Senatorial Committee switched up its tactics, recruited new faces, and hit Democrats right where it hurt the most. Downballot candidates were not as successful as Trump, who won all seven swing states compared to the senators who picked up wins in four of the six contests they saw openings. But those victories were enough to give the GOP a three-seat majority and grease the skids for Trump to get to work.There are 12 new senators coming to Washington next year, six from each party, and our Senate reporters, Samantha-Jo Roth and Ramsey Touchberry, caught up with all of them when they were in town for new member orientation.The focus from each group of senators is slightly different, as might be expected.Republicans are excited about their chance to flex their muscle after spending the last four years in the minority. Democrats under Biden, who also had a friendly House for the first two years of his tenure, approved huge spending legislation along party lines through reconciliation. Now, that tricky budget maneuver is something Republicans can use to trim regulations and work around Democratic opposition to their agenda.Four of the incoming senators turfed Democrats from their seats, whether they were choosing not to run, as Sen. Joe Manchin (I-WV) did, or in hard-fought contests that sharpened the political knives that they will be expected to pull out, even if the upper chamber is more collegial than the House.Sen.-elect Bernie Moreno (R-OH) will even have some added responsibility shortly when he becomes the senior senator from his state as soon as he takes office, as Vice President-elect J.D. Vance (R-OH) has to resign his seat.Democrats are touting the diversity of their new recruits, who are walking into a government dominated by the opposition, and where they will have to find out what it means to govern from a position of weakness.Despite the disadvantages of working in opposition, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said he is confident that the “cross-section of life experiences and perspectives” is going to set up an opportunity for all of the new members to “flourish.”Several of the new Democratic senators are Washington veterans.Sen.-elect Adam Schiff (D-CA) made a name for himself as a fierce Trump foe during the then-president’s first impeachment.Also coming across the building from the House is Sen.-elect Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), who might have put the nail in Kari Lake’s political coffin by handing her her second loss in as many cycles.Click here to read more about the new senators poised to help and hurt Trump’s agenda.Tariff troubleIt did not take even a month for Trump to make good on his promise to start slapping tariffs on trading partners to leverage concessions he wants. On the campaign trail, he talked about what a “beautiful” word tariff was. He railed against trade deficits and promised he would toss around America’s weight on the world stage to get his way.The first targets of his tariff regime were, literally, the country’s closest trading partners. On Monday night, Trump promised to put 25% tariffs on all goods coming into the country from Canada and Mexico.It was not a total surprise move from the president-elect, who used trade as a cudgel against both nations during his first term and crowed about his success in reforming the North American Free Trade Agreement in a way to better suit the United States.But the move still raised questions about whether he was allowed to move unilaterally and why he included Canada when his primary concern appeared to be about illegal drugs and immigrants flowing into the country — a problem associated more with the southern border than the north.Economics and business reporter Zach Halaschak has put together a handy guide to answer those questions and help make sense of the tariff moves already underway and explain how to think about the moves still to come, as Trump has promised that more tariffs on China are on the horizon.Trump’s win cannot be chalked up to concerns about the southern border, but the chaos there played a huge role, and exerting pressure on Mexico to do more to stem the tide of illegal movement of people and drugs across the border was expected. The problems at the northern border are not at the same scale as those on the southern border, but Trump’s “border czar,” Tom Homan, is not ignoring either port of entry.

Chief Scientist discusses cooperation with US National Science Foundation

Science and Health

Cyprus’ Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology, Demetris Skourides, discussed with the National Science Foundation of the USA, strengthening bilateral cooperation in science, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, during a visit to the United States between November 18 and 22. Discussions also explored the potential adoption of best practices in Cyprus, leveraging the NSF’s “I-Corps” programme, “which accelerates the transition of scientific innovation from the laboratory to the marketplace,” a press release issued from his office said.According to the press release, Skourides, who also serves as the Chairman of the Research and Innovation Foundation, recently concluded a visit to the United States, “aimed at fostering collaboration in science, research, and innovation.”During his visit, it said, he held a virtual meeting with senior officials of the National Science Foundation in Virginia. The meeting, hosted by Dr. Karen Marrongelle, Chief Science Officer of the NSF, Dr Jessica Robin, Deputy Office Head of the Office of International Science and Engineering (OISE), and Nahla Hilmi, Science Diplomacy Analyst, followed the Strategic Dialogue held in Nicosia on October 23, 2024, between the governments of Cyprus and the United States, it adds.Skourides, the press release continues, “showcased Cyprus’ evolving research and innovation ecosystem, outlined the government’s R&I incentives, and highlighted key focus areas in the Cyprus Research & Innovation Strategy 2024 – 2026,” while Dr. Marrongelle presented the strategic themes and priorities of the US research and innovation agenda.“The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in science, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Discussions also explored the potential adoption of best practices in Cyprus, leveraging the NSF’s “I-Corps” program, which accelerates the transition of scientific innovation from the laboratory to the marketplace,” the press release said.Both parties agreed to exchange further information and deepen collaboration between Cyprus and the United States in these critical fields, it adds.The Office of the Chief Scientist “extends its gratitude to the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus for its leadership and support in facilitating this initiative.”