Economist on CPI, retail sales

Sen. Chris Van Hollen's Attempt to Visit Deported Salvadoran Migrant Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) was denied a visit with Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 29-year-old Salvadoran migrant and alleged MS-13 member, after traveling to El Salvador. Van Hollen, whose attorneys argue Garcia has no gang ties, met with Vice President Félix Ulloa but was informed he needed prior arrangements to visit the maximum-security "Terrorism Confinement Center" (CECOT) where Garcia is held. The senator vowed to...

Panama City Beach, a favored spring break destination in Florida, is officially stepping back from its tradition of hosting college students, as announced by Police Chief J.R. Talamantez. He emphasized the growing challenges associated with managing spring break crowds and stated that the city can no longer align with the event's associated issues, urging a reevaluation of its future. Talamantez acknowledged respectful visitors while condemning disruptive behavior, indicating a shift in community values and law...

Graciela Castellanos, a 37-year-old mother from Van Nuys, California, has been charged with murder for allegedly drowning her 7-year-old daughter on April 11, 2025. According to prosecutors, the child was heard screaming for her mother before first responders pronounced her dead at the scene. Castellanos has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is scheduled to return to court on June 17, with the Los Angeles County District Attorney describing the incident as "profoundly tragic...

Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is reportedly considering a gubernatorial run in 2026, encouraged by allies of Donald Trump, following her role as chairwoman of House Republican Leadership. She has consistently outperformed Trump in her congressional district and recently criticized Governor Kathy Hochul's approval ratings, advocating for her removal due to perceived failures. With significant support among Republican voters and $10 million in cash, Stefanik is one of several Republicans, including Rep. Mike Lawler, contemplating a...

Trump Administration Sues Maine Over Transgender Athlete PolicyIn a legal escalation, the Trump administration has filed a lawsuit against Maine's education department for allegedly violating Title IX by allowing transgender girls to compete in girls' sports. This conflict arose after Republican officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, claimed the state's actions contradict federal anti-discrimination laws, while Democratic Gov. Janet Mills vowed to fight the administration's threats to cut federal funding. The lawsuit highlights the broader...

A colossal squid, the largest squid species, was filmed in its natural habitat for the first time by the Schmidt Ocean Institute on March 9, 2023, in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 2,000 feet below the surface near the South Sandwich Islands. This juvenile squid, measuring approximately 11 feet long, is part of a conservation effort to understand these elusive creatures, which can grow up to 43 feet and weigh 1,100 pounds. The expedition, aimed...