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Axios

Employer Health Costs Projected to Increase by 9.5% in 2027

Health care costs for employers are projected to rise by 9.5% in 2027, reaching over $19,000 per employee, according to Aon. Factors driving this increase include rising demand for health services and the use of certain medications. Workers are expected to contribute an average of $5,297 towards their health coverage this year.

The Hill

Gallup Survey Reports Record Low Alcohol Consumption Among Americans

A recent Gallup survey shows that alcohol consumption among Americans is at its lowest level in history, with 54 percent of respondents reporting they consume alcohol. This percentage has remained unchanged for two years, indicating a continuing decline in drinking habits.

Washington Examiner

Arizona GOP Leader Calls for Hearing on Taxpayer Risks in Paramount Merger Case

Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen has called for a public hearing regarding the potential financial risks to taxpayers associated with Paramount Skydance's $1.88 billion bond request in its antitrust lawsuit. The bond would cover losses from an injunction blocking a merger with Warner Bros. Discovery, impacting multiple states, including Arizona. Petersen criticized Attorney General Kris Mayes for her role in the lawsuit and the lack of fiscal analysis provided to the Senate.

The Hill

Melania Trump announces scholarships for foster children

Melania Trump announced a new scholarship program for foster children, funded by a $2 million donation from IndyCar and Fox Corporation. The scholarships will be available at Indiana University and Purdue University.

Vox

WNBA Faces Cultural Debates Amid Growth and Controversy

The WNBA is experiencing growth with a historic payout for players and a new media rights deal, but it is also embroiled in cultural debates over transgender athletes and women's sports. Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham's comments have sparked discussions about the league's identity and its role in broader societal issues, particularly as it attracts new fans and political attention through players like Caitlin Clark.

Fox News — Latest

Clinical Trial Shows Promising Results for mRNA Skin Cancer Vaccine

A clinical trial for an experimental skin cancer vaccine by Merck and Moderna has shown significant results in reducing melanoma recurrence and spread. The trial involved 1,137 patients and demonstrated improved survival rates for those receiving the personalized mRNA vaccine alongside standard treatment. Regulatory discussions are planned following these promising findings.

Guardian — US

Man hospitalized with brain injury following ICE arrest in Virginia

José Mejía Hernandez, 45, sustained a brain injury and severe bruising after being arrested by U.S. immigration agents in Arlington, Virginia, on August 11. His lawyers reported that he was struck by a stun gun and later hospitalized before being fitted with an ankle monitor.

The Daily Beast

Department of Education AI Post Raises Concerns Over Image Resembling Jeffrey Epstein

A recent AI-generated post by the Department of Education has raised eyebrows as it features a figure resembling Jeffrey Epstein. The Department clarified that the individual is Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, but many users on social media have expressed confusion. The post promotes an upcoming event and has elicited various reactions online, particularly regarding Trump's past connections to Epstein.

Guardian — US

US Treasury Department Sanctions 10 Individuals for Alleged Hezbollah Cash Smuggling

On August 20, 2026, the US Treasury Department sanctioned 10 individuals for allegedly smuggling hundreds of millions of dollars to Hezbollah through a courier network. The network reportedly used commercial flights to transport cash between several countries, facilitating Hezbollah's access to foreign currency and evasion of sanctions.

Fox News — Politics

Sean Duffy Discusses Concerns Over Daughter Attending Harvard University

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy raised concerns about Harvard University's influence on his daughter's education due to its perceived conflict with his Christian values. While initially apprehensive, Duffy expressed a willingness to support his daughter's interest in attending the university after a visit where they discussed campus life with a Catholic priest.

the-independent.com

Woman Arrested for Alleged ISIS-Inspired Plot Against New York Capitol

Jessica Bowie, a 35-year-old Albany resident, was arrested for allegedly plotting an ISIS-inspired attack on the New York State Capitol. She faces charges of attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization, with a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Authorities report that she had purchased bomb-making materials and planned to execute the attack while posing as a food delivery worker.

Al Jazeera English

US Implements New Sanctions Affecting Cuban Economy

The US has announced new economic sanctions aimed at the mining and construction industries in Cuba. These measures are anticipated to exacerbate existing economic difficulties on the island, including power outages and medical supply shortages.

Vox

America's National Debt Exceeds $40 Trillion

America's national debt exceeded $40 trillion on August 19, 2026, driven by rising government expenses and tax cuts. This increase in debt is leading to higher borrowing costs for consumers and businesses, with estimates suggesting an additional $2,500 per year in mortgage costs for the average homeowner. Political solutions to curb the debt's growth remain unpopular.

Guardian — US

Questions Raised Over Security Clearance for Trump Aide Natalie Harp

The White House is under scrutiny for the lack of security clearance for Natalie Harp, an executive assistant to Donald Trump, who reportedly worked for a year without the necessary clearance. Sources indicate that she did not file the required forms for unknown reasons.

Washington Examiner

FBI arrests New York woman for alleged ISIS attack plot on state capitol

Jessica Bowie, a 35-year-old woman from New York, has been arrested by the FBI for allegedly planning to bomb the New York State Capitol building as part of a plot inspired by ISIS. Bowie faces federal charges for attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization and could face up to 20 years in prison.

National Review

Rally in Albany Supports Moratorium on New Data Centers

Environmental advocates and progressive lawmakers held a rally at the New York state capitol on May 13, 2026, to support legislation for a moratorium on new data centers. The rally focused on raising awareness about the environmental concerns associated with data center operations.