The Daily Skimm

The Story

Yesterday, Joe Biden made a historic VP pick.

Who?

Sen. Kamala Harris (D-CA). As Biden's running mate, Harris is now the first Black woman and the first person of South Asian descent to ever be on a major party's presidential ticket. The US Senator from California – and Biden's former 2020 rival – has a long history in public service, and is now taking on another prominent role as a candidate for vice president.

Tell me about her.

As a senator, Kamala (pronounced "comma-la" for those who didn't watch the Democratic debates) Harris gained traction for her tough questioning of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh and former Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Before that, she was the first Black woman to hold roles as California attorney general and San Francisco district attorney. She grew up in Oakland, CA, and became an advocate for civil rights after being introduced to protests by her parents – both immigrants. But like any politician, Harris has seen her fair share of criticism.

Like?

Like her record as a prosecutor, especially with regard to criminal justice reform – something she was highly criticized for on the debate stage. As CA's AG, she defended the death penalty and some lawyers claimed she fought to uphold wrongful convictions. And didn't take a position on a bill that would've required her office to investigate fatal police shootings. Or on an act that reduced some felonies to misdemeanors. But Harris has recently taken a more progressive stance on criminal justice issues.

Go on.

Amid nationwide protests against police brutality and racism, she's pushed for police reform. She fought to make lynching a federal crime. And has vowed to end mass incarceration, cash bail, and the death penalty. And on other issues: She signed onto the 2017 Medicare for All bill, but wants to keep private insurance as an option. She's advocated for women's reproductive rights. And has defended California's landmark climate change law.

So what are people saying?

Many are ecstatic to see a Biden-Harris ticket. Others pointed out that the two weren't exactly the best of friends during the debates. But Biden's said he doesn't hold a grudge and is proud to have a "fearless fighter" as a running mate. Meanwhile, Republicans said she's too far to the left. President Trump noted that voters "rejected Harris" during the Dem primary. And had a campaign ad against her ready to go.

theSkimm

After months of deliberation, Biden followed through on his promise to have a woman join the ticket. Now, he and Harris have made history, and prep for their first joint appearance today and the DNC next week. But what's on everyone's radar: Harris v Vice President Mike Pence in October.

And Also...This

Where people are on alert...

New Zealand. Yesterday, the country reported an end to its 102-day streak without new COVID-19 infections. PM Jacinda Ardern reported four new cases, all of which were found within one household in South Auckland. Their source is still unknown. New Zealand was applauded for keeping the virus under control when it implemented travel restrictions, a lockdown, and widespread testing. Now, Auckland residents are being asked to stay home and schools are closed for at least three days. And the rest of the country's been urged to practice social distancing.

...Oh and speaking of the coronavirus, some face masks work better than others.

What's also dealing with the effects of the coronavirus...

The UK. The country has entered a recession after gov figures showed its GDP fell 20.4% in the second quarter. It's a result of lockdown measures amid the coronavirus pandemic. The data released today shows it's the biggest quarterly decline for the UK on record, with its economy shrinking more than any other major nation including the US. Officials say the economy has started to bounce back after easing lockdown measures, but fear the possibility of growing unemployment in the coming months.

Whose case has updates…

Elijah McClain's. Yesterday, McClain's parents filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the city of Aurora, CO, police, and medical officers. Last year, the 23-year-old Black man died after police put him in a chokehold and paramedics injected him with ketamine. While no criminal charges have been filed, there are reportedly three separate ongoing investigations into his death. But McClain's parents said the lawsuit would send a message that "racism and brutality have no place in American law enforcement." The city declined to comment on the lawsuit. Meanwhile, the Colorado AG announced a separate probe into the department's actions yesterday.

Who won't be in the end zone this year…

The Big Ten and Pac-12. Yesterday, the college athletics conferences postponed all fall sports (including football) amid coronavirus concerns. They're hoping to get their heads back in the game come spring. Three other Power Five leagues – the ACC, SEC, and Big 12 – are still putting their jerseys on...for now.

What's got us flipped-turned upside down…

This reboot.

Thing to Know

Hangry

When you're so hungry that you start to become angry. An emotion so relatable, it got added to the dictionary.

PSA: there are lots of things you should avoid while hangry. Like the grocery store. Studies have shown that browsing the aisles on an empty stomach can cause you to spend more money on stuff you don't want. So step awayyyy from the shopping cart.

A better solution? Blue Apron. Get dinner delivered to your door, ready to cook. And say 'see ya' to being hangry. Phew, that's better.

Worry vs. Anxiety

Worry is specific (i.e. nervous about your next trip to the dentist) while anxiety is general (i.e. anxious about seeing doctors). Worry often leads to problem solving and is temporary while anxiety is persistent. But it doesn't have to be. Our guide has tactics for coping with anxiety on a daily basis because your mental health is always important, especially right now.

Summer is here. Check out our fave picks for the season…

1. 15 genius products that'll save you money. Like reusable paper towels, a makeup-removing cloth, and a fabric shaver to revive your old sheets. Savings account, is that you?

2. 64 things everyone forgets to clean. Because the last time you dusted your fake plants or ceiling fan was...never. As Kelly Clarkson once said, "some people wait a lifetime, for a moment like this."

3. The top 100 Beyoncé songs ranked. Retweet ≠ endorsement. Justice for "Pretty Hurts."

PS: Want more? Sign up to get weekly recs in your inbox.

For when you promised your dentist you'd floss more…

It's not too late. This brand makes coconut oil–infused, textured floss specially formulated to scrub away plaque. Plus, it's cruelty-free and comes in fun aromas. Like pure strawberry, fresh coconut, and their newly launched summer watermelon. Skimm'rs get 20% off your first purchase. Open wide.*

For when "back to school" will look a little different this year…

This company can help you get creative. They make hands-on projects for kids that are educational and empowering. Get a subscription based on age and interest, then get projects sent right to your door. PS: Skimm'rs get 40% off their first month. Take a look.*

For when you're quarantined away from your people...

Say 'I miss you' with a cute gift. Because you really, really do. This list has a digital photo frame, a gorgeous bouquet, and a sweet care package. Virtual hugs sold separately.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

Skimm’rs

In times like these, community matters more than ever. Let us know how you (or someone you know) is making an impact by helping others.

Making a change...Andrea M G (FL). She started The Sylas Project in honor of her son Sylas. The org raises awareness about pool safety for children under five years old. And has a petition you can sign for pool safety regulation. The org also provides scholarships for survival swim lessons for those who cannot afford them. Learn more.

Accessorizing…Kallista H (CO). She recently started a blog called Chronically Chic aimed at providing resources, worksheets, and now mask accessories to those dealing with chronic illness. And plans to add more accessories and goodies soon. More here.

(Some) Birthdays…Emily Sheahan (NY), Lindsay Blake (CT), Kyle Kuhlmann (CA), Katy Strong (NC), Aidan Weinberg (IL), Leah Friedland (IL), Shirley Jackey (CO), Elizabeth Trombley (MI), Meredith Guarino (TX), Elaine Jahnsen (FL), Tessa Hughes (AL), Allie Sutter (CA), Jeri Pliner (CA), Kate Dodd (SC)

*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

Skimm’d by Maria del Carmen Corpus, Mariza Smajlaj, Ellen Burke, Niven McCall-Mazza, Clem Robineau, and Julie Shain