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Sighs of Relief
The Story
You can remove 'debt default' from the 2023 bingo card.
Catch me up.
Last night, the Democratic-led Senate passed a bill to suspend the nation's $31.4 trillion debt ceiling until 2025. The 63-36 vote came after the upper chamber rejected 11 amendments that would've reshaped the legislation, in part by including steeper cuts and more defense spending. The approval came one day after the House overwhelmingly passed the measure. Now, the bill will go to President Biden who promised to sign it ASAP and plans to address the nation at 7 pm ET tonight. It's not the only thing on his agenda.
What else?
Yesterday, the Senate voted 52-46 on a Republican-led effort to overturn Biden’s student loan debt relief plan. Supporters of the bill say the plan is unconstitutional and that it's too expensive. However, those dreaming of getting some debt relief don't need to give up hope yet. Biden promised to veto the bill, and it's unlikely Congress will have enough votes to override the move. Meanwhile, the SCOTUS ruling on student loan forgiveness is expected later this month.
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Millions across America may be able to rest easier, as Congress has managed to avert an unprecedented default days before the deadline. As for student loan forgiveness, that's a tale that's still going to go on for a while longer as the topic still has many divided.
and also...this
What some scientists are touting…
An endometriosis breakthrough. A team of Australian researchers became the first to successfully grow tissue from every known type of endometriosis. More than 6 million women in the US suffer from the disease, which can lead to fertility issues or debilitating pain. Now, scientists say they've tried varying methods of treatment on the different types of tissue to see how they would respond. The hope is that medical professionals may soon be able to better treat endometriosis patients and hopefully avoid fewer painful and invasive surgeries.
What’s probably not a fan of AI right now…
The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). Earlier this week, the organization took its AI-powered chatbot, Tessa, offline. It came after two users said Tessa gave them advice on how to count calories and recommended they lose up to two pounds a week — which experts say are symptoms of an eating disorder. The org reportedly planned on having Tessa replace a staffed helpline. So much for that one study on AI being more empathic.
…Oh and, the FDA is warning people to stay away from off-brand versions of Ozempic and Wegovy. The agency said they may not have the same ingredients and could be unsafe.
Who had a moment…
President Biden. Yesterday, the 80-year-old president tripped on a sandbag during the Air Force Academy’s graduation ceremony. The White House said Biden is “totally fine.” Others used the incident to raise questions about the president’s physical health ahead of the 2024 election.
What’s reached a new low…
Where royal wedding bells are ringing...
Who's putting it 'on da floor' this summer...
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