The Biden admin is building a wall, after all.

To the Window, to the Wall

The Story

The Biden admin is building a wall, after all.

Run that back for me.

Earlier this week, the Biden admin waived 26 federal laws in Starr County, TX, to add about 20 miles to the border wall. The Department of Homeland Security announced it is waiving federal laws like the Clean Air Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act to speed up the building process and stop “high illegal entry” into the US. The move comes as illegal entries into the US reached about 245,000 this fiscal year and as cities are struggling with migrant arrivals. While on the 2020 campaign trail, Biden vowed there will “not be another foot” of border wall built on his watch.

Then, why is this happening?

Biden said he has no choice. The admin said they tried to divert the money being used to build the wall but that Congress refused the request. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) called the border wall “a 14th-century solution to a 21st-century problem.” Environmental advocates also see it as a blow to the habitats of endangered plants and species. Meanwhile, former President Trump — who rallied behind the phrase “Build that Wall” in his 2016 campaign — is waiting for an apology.

theSkimm

The US-Mexico border spans 1,951 miles, with the Trump admin covering 4% with a wall. Now, the Biden admin is reversing years of pushback to add 20 miles.

Which prize has everyone’s attention…

The Nobel Peace Prize. Today, jailed Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi won the award for her work fighting the oppression of women in Iran. For decades, the 51-year-old has worked to expand women’s rights — including through civil rights organizations and by writing and speaking publicly. Her activism continued behind bars, after Iran jailed her multiple times and sentenced her to over 30 years in prison. The news comes after this past weekend, 16-year-old Armita Geravand fell into a coma after walking into public transit with her hair uncovered — sparking allegations against the Iranian government. It also comes on the heels of the one-year anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini, who sparked a wave of women-led protests across the country. 

Who’s offering to be leader of the group project…

Former President Trump. Yesterday, Trump said he’d be open to acting as the House Speaker for a “short period of time” if Republicans can’t get their elephants in a row. Trump is not a congressman. That technically doesn’t disqualify him but he was indicted on felony charges so the GOP would have to change a rule. Trump said he’s “not doing it because I want to” but “if necessary” and is thinking about making a trip to the Hill in the coming days. Meanwhile, Reps. Steve Scalise (R-LA) and Jim Jordan (R-OH) have been trying to get votes before next week.

What doctors are taking a closer look at…

Weight loss drugs. Yesterday, a new study found a potential link between popular diabetes-turned-weight loss drugs (like Ozempic) with severe digestive issues. The researchers acknowledged it’s rare to develop issues like pancreatitis and bowel obstruction, but the growing popularity of the drugs is cause for concern.

Who people are talking about…

Jason Derulo. Yesterday, NBC reported the singer is being sued for quid-pro-quo sexual harassment by another singer, Emaza Gibson. Gibson alleges Derulo offered her a contract to help launch her music career and release a song together. The contract came to an end after Gibson said she refused to drink and have sex with Derulo. He has not commented.

When you’re worried about the child care cliff…

You’re not alone. Earlier this summer theSkimm partnered with Moms First to launch #ShowUsYourChildCare. Now, we’re offering a database of companies and orgs bringing transparency on childcare benefits and work flexibility. Check out the database here. And if your employer isn’t on the list, here are some resources to encourage them to join.

What’s not in the Girl Scouts roster this year...

Raspberry Rally.

What’s giving ‘I’m 6'0" with shoes on’ energy…

Mont Blanc.

While Drake was up at 8AM in Charlotte…

His new album just dropped. Take a listen.