SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " plus " 2,442 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
3 immigration numbers to know from our new poll: From the Politics Desk
Plus, Trump's "wrecking ball politics" loom large over the Munich Security Conference.
Samsung’s offering up to $900 of trade-in credit toward its new phones
Plus, get a $30 credit for accessories.
No Man’s Sky update 6.20 “Remnant” out now
Hello Games has announced and released No Man’s Sky update 6.20 “Remnant”, adding a new gravity gun tool, waste cleanup on planets, and more. Here's a rundown on the new update, plus a trailer: No Man’…
Over 60 Software Vendors Issue Security Fixes Across OS, Cloud, and Network Platforms
Patch Tuesday delivers fixes for 59 Microsoft flaws, six exploited zero-days, plus critical SAP and Intel TDX vulnerabilities.
Lutnick’s Flip-Flop Deepens White House Epstein Woes
Plus, immigration-enforcement chiefs defend the administration’s crackdown, and Vance stumbles on the Armenian genocide issue.
What's next in New Jersey's special election: From the Politics Desk
Plus, members of Congress are heading to the exits.
What to watch in the Texas Senate race : The NPR Politics Podcast
Texas Sen. John Cornyn, running for his fifth term, is locked in a competitive Republican primary contest. Meanwhile, some Democrats think they can flip the seat, electing a Democrat to represent Texas in the Senate for the first time since 1988. We discuss what to watch in the heated primaries as voters begin casting their ballots next week.This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and Houston Public Media senior reporter Andrew Schneider.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Rihanna Makes a Chic Run to the Grocery Store in L.A., Plus Emma Stone, Kate Hudson, Gigi Hadid and More
Rihanna makes a chic run to the grocery store in L.A., Plus Emma Stone, Kate Hudson, Gigi Hadid and more. From Los Angeles to New York City, and everywhere in between, see what your favorite stars are up to.
Two longtime North Carolina political rivals (and friends) are 'Talking About Politics.' Plus, PlayMakers' 'Primary Trust.'
Political adversaries Gary Pearce and Carter Wrenn talk about how they became friends and why they are still talking politics with each other. Then, PlayMakers Repertory Company’s production of “Primary Trust” features a vulnerable, comedic, and heartfelt performance from its star, Nate John Mark.
Health insurance hell: Why do I need a prior authorization? : Life Kit
Some medical procedures and treatments require prior authorization from your health insurance company, meaning you'll need pre-approval before you can receive care. This episode, health care reporter Sarah Boden shares tips on making the prior authorization process as smooth as possible — so you can save yourself frustration and get medical support sooner.Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekitSign up for our newsletter here.Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.orgSupport the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit
The physics of the Winter Olympics : Short Wave
Watching a ski jumper fly through the air might get you wondering, “How do they do that?” The answer is – physics!That’s why this episode, we have two physicists – Amy Pope, a physicist from Clemson University and host Regina G. Barber – break down the science at play across some of the sports at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Because what’s a sport without a little friction, lift and conservation of energy? They also get into the new sport this year, ski mountaineering - or “skimo” as many call it - and the recent scandal involving the men’s ski jump suits. Interested in more science behind Olympic sports? Check out our episodes on how extreme G-forces affect Olympic bobsledders, the physics of figure skating and the science behind Simone Biles' Olympic gold. Also, we’d love to know what science questions have you stumped. Email us your questions at shortwave@npr.org – we may solve it for you on a future episode!Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
How the Epstein files are upending U.K. politics : Consider This from NPR
The latest disclosure from the U.S. Department of Justice’s investigation of Jeffrey Epstein is threatening the U.K. ruling government.New documents have led Peter Mandelson, a former ambassador to the U.S., to resign from Britain’s House of Lords and from the Labour Party.The fallout has already claimed two key staff members close to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and some in his own party are calling for him to step down too.Edward Luce, chief U.S. commentator for the Financial Times, helps explain the scandal – and why the reaction in the U.K. differs from the U.S.For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Email us at considerthis@npr.org.This episode was produced by Jordan-Marie Smith and Connor Donevan, with audio engineering by Hannah Gluvna. It was edited by Patrick Jarenwattananon and Michael Levitt. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.
A moment of truth for Democrats ahead of this week's DHS shutdown deadline: From the Politics Desk
Plus, a preview of this year's big secretary of state races.
The midterm map is beginning to take shape : The NPR Politics Podcast
Beginning in March, voters will start picking their preferred candidates to run for House and Senate races throughout the country. With a record number of incumbents retiring, we look at what seats are especially competitive & the issues that might play big roles in how voters make up their minds.This episode: voting correspondent Miles Parks, political reporter Stephen Fowler, and senior political editor & correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced and edited by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Redding-area winter sports: Top games for final week of regular season
The 2025-26 winter sports season concludes with regular season finales for basketball and soccer, plus wrestling divisional championships this week.
YouTube TV launching lower-cost sports-only package of channels
"Sports Plus" will be priced about $20 less than YouTube TV's existing 100-channel service.
Six Political Stories to Watch This Week
Plus, an age-old question in Congress, and how Americans feel about the economy under Trump
Pols & Politics: Money talks for GOP’s Minogue as candidate carries more cash than Healey
GOP gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue reports his campaign has more cash on hand than Gov. Maura Healey’s reelection campaign. Plus, a kid-led anti-ICE rally in Boston has been cancelled d…
Foxborough says that if FIFA doesn’t come through with $7 million-plus for World Cup security, license won’t be granted
FIFA needs the Town of Foxborough to grant an entertainment license in order for it to stage seven World Cup games at Gillette Stadium. Foxborough want its needs met first.
Gubernatorial candidates refute Lamont’s speech: CT politics news
Plus: Proposals on towing laws, AI discrimination, expedited health care approvals; updates on the Committee on Children and Aging Committee.
Trump's persistent foreign policy challenge: From the Politics Desk
Plus, a pro-Israel super PAC's play in New Jersey's special election backfires.
How fights over ICE funding are playing out on the Hill and in midterm races : The NPR Politics Podcast
Lawmakers on Capitol Hill are running out of time to reach an agreement over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, which includes Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection. We discuss the state of negotiations, plus how calls to “abolish ICE” are playing out in congressional races.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, political correspondent Ashley Lopez, and political reporter Elena Moore.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Rocky’s Great Outdoors closing Burton store after 50-plus years in business
Rocky’s Great Outdoors, a staple in Burton’s business community since 1971, is going out of business.
‘OPB Politics Now’: Lawmakers begin Salem session, plus the politics surrounding Portland’s ICE building
The 35-day session is off to a rollicking start.
The tension at the center of Trump's retooled immigration message: From the Politics Desk
Plus, the racial divides that are shaping the Texas Democratic Senate primary.
Best earbud deal: Get the Nothing Ear (a) wireless earbuds for their lowest price yet
Plus, get ChatGPT support for chats right in your ear.
Wizards acquire Anthony Davis in bizarre deal ahead of NBA trade deadline; WM Phoenix Open preview
Plus, the Rangers dealt superstar winger Artemi Panarin to the Kings
How college sports juiced Olympic development : The Indicator from Planet Money
How did the U.S. become the Olympic powerhouse it is today? Cold War competition. The Soviet Union sponsored their athletes. But America wanted its athletes to pull themselves up by their bootstraps. It birthed an unexpected accelerator of Olympic development: College football. Stay with us now.On today’s show, how college football became an Olympic development engine. And how that engine might not be running as smoothly as it once did.Related episodes: Why the Olympics cost so muchYou can't spell Olympics without IPA huge EU-India deal, Heated Rivalry, and a hefty $200k to OlympiansWhy Host The Olympics?The monetization of college sportsFor sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.
US man shares clever AirTag trick that Apple never explains when you buy it
US tech creator reveals a simple AirTag setup trick Apple doesn’t explain, plus a small habit that makes trackers far more useful day to day
Trump's lesson from Minneapolis: From the Politics Desk
Plus, the Kennedy Center's forthcoming closure shocks the National Symphony Orchestra.
Justice Department released 3 million pages of Epstein files. What did we learn? : The NPR Politics Podcast
The Justice Department says it has released all of the relevant documents from its investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. We discuss what we have learned from the millions of pages of documents and whether Republicans or Democrats got what they were hoping for from the release.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political reporter Stephen Fowler, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Amazon rolls out Alexa Plus nationwide and launches a new free tier
Alexa Plus is now available to everyone in the US
Clintons, in Chess Match With Congress, Agree to Testify, Avoid Contempt Vote
Plus, partial shutdown’s end sets up debate over curbs on immigration officers’ operations, and MAGA has issues with Bad Bunny.
Samsung starts teasing Galaxy S26’s camera capabilities
Samsung has started teasing the camera capabilities of the Galaxy S26 series. It has now published three short videos as teasers.
OpenAI snags Anthropic safety researcher for head of preparedness role
OpenAI hired an Anthropic safety researcher as its head of preparedness, which pays up to $555,000 plus equity.
New Jersey special election will test the sway of Democrats' machine politics: From the Politics Desk
Plus, Democrats warn of a new precedent after House Republicans push the Clintons to testify.
Trump says Republicans should ‘nationalize’ elections : The NPR Politics Podcast
President Trump suggested during an appearance on the Dan Bongino Show that Republicans should “take over the voting” in at least 15 states and “nationalize” elections. We unpack what to make of these comments and how they fit into a bigger picture of Trump’s repeated efforts to interfere with states’ administration of elections. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, voting correspondent Miles Parks, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
The Big ChromeOS and Android Merger May Be Google’s Last Walled Garden
The Google-pilled ChromeOS may die so that ‘Aluminum’ will live.
Google court filings suggest Google's ChromeOS has an expiration date
ChromeOS may be canned once the current support guarantee has run its course.
All the Sports You Won’t See at the 2026 Winter Olympics
The makeup of the Winter Olympics has changed many times in the 100-plus years of the Games. Here are some sports that haven’t stood the test of time.
Autism: myth-busting and what scientists still don't know : Short Wave
Autism has a long history of misinformation that continues to today. The Trump administration has perpetuated some of this misinformation in the last year. Among other things, officials have claimed certain groups of people don’t get the condition and that taking Tylenol while pregnant causes autism to later develop in children. Today, NPR Science Correspondent Jon Hamilton sets the record straight with host Emily Kwong on what scientists do and don’t know about autism. If you liked this episode, check out our episodes on an Autism researcher’s take on Trump’s claims about Tylenol and a Fragile X treatment that may be on the horizon.Interested in more science in the news? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.This episode was produced by Berly McCoy. It was edited by Rebecca Ramirez. Tyler Jones checked the facts. The audio engineer was Damian Herring.
Democrats' diverging shutdown approaches: From the Politics Desk
Plus, the 2020 election looms over a key race this year in Georgia.
Community Health Systems Completes Divestiture of Three Pennsylvania Hospitals to Tenor Health Foundation
FRANKLIN, Tenn., February 02, 2026--Community Health Systems, Inc. (NYSE: CYH) announced today that certain subsidiaries of the Company have completed the divestiture of 186-bed Regional Hospital of Scranton and 122-bed Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton, Pennsylvania, 369-bed Wilkes-Barre General Hospital in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and certain related businesses to affiliates of Tenor Health Foundation for $33 million of cash plus a $15 million promissory note from the buyer. Additional cash
Carlos Alcaraz makes history at Australian Open; Raiders, Cardinals pick coaches
Plus, LeBron James collects 22nd All-Star nod, but did it come at Kawhi Leonard's expense?
U.S. Bank Business Shield™ Visa® Card Offers Intro 0% APR for up to 18 Billing Cycles
New business credit card offers rewards and access to Spend Management platform to monitor, track, and control spending U.S. Bank, a leading provider of payment services and solutions, today announced a new business credit card designed to help small business owners navigate fluctuations in finances and resources: the U.S. Bank Business Shield™ Visa® Card . The U.S. Bank Business Shield™ Visa® Card offers small business owners a new solution for navigating expected and unexpected expenses. This new business credit card offers a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles when applying at any U.S. Bank branch and 12 billing cycles when applying in digital channels – all with no annual fee. Plus, cardholders can enjoy a suite of benefits to help navigate the foreseen - and the unforeseen - needs of their small business. “The Business Shield Visa card is designed to help business owners navigate the unpredictable financial and resource challenges that
Pop music and politics
Anti-ICE at the Grammy Awards. Plus: It's Groundhog Day.
An incredible sports week arrives with Olympics, Super Bowl. Plus: NFL coaching carousel wraps up
The Pulse Newsletter 📣 | This is The Athletic’s daily sports newsletter. Sign up here to receive The Pulse directly in your inbox. Good morning! It’s the start of a brilliant sports week. Coming up: 🏅 Olympic stars to know 🏈 Super Bowl week, baby ✍️ Coaching carousel problem We often talk about the unmatched glory of a great sports weekend, whether that’s the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, MLB’s Opening Day blitz, Thanksgiving weekend in the football world, whatever. We have arrived at one of those junctures — and it’s a full week. Let’s start...
The Wonder Drug That’s Plaguing Sports
Ostarine held the promise of profound medical treatments. Something unexpected happened on the way to F.D.A. approval.
7,000-plus Huskers named to Deans’ List for fall 2025
More than 7,000 Husker students have been named to the Deans’ List for the fall semester of the 2025-26 academic year.
M2’s Tokihiro NAITO and Skipmore announce pixel art ‘puzzle adventure shooter’ XeGrader plus for PC
Tokihiro NAITO, a game designer and director who works for M2, has announced XeGrader plus, a fantasy “puzzle adventure shooter” with pixel art by Skipmore. It will be available for PC …
Pokémon GO Events This Week: February 2 to February 8, 2026
Pokémon GO’s February 2 to February 8 week has us entering the final month of Precious Paths! Get ready for carnival with the debut of Flamigo, and show off your catching skills with Oricorio. Plus the weekly rotating Spotlight and Raid Hours, Dynamax Battles and Mega Raids. ⭐Highlights Raid Boss Change (February 4): Dialga, Palkia and […]
Forward Theater’s darkly funny ‘Ironbound’ has grace and grit
Set in bus stop limbo, Matryna Majok’s play tells the story of Polish-born Darja over 20-plus years. It runs through Feb. 15 at Overture Center in Madison.
Food and football from the campaign trail (Politics+) : The NPR Politics Podcast
In today's bonus episode, Don Gonyea (national political correspondent) and Deepa Shivaram (White House correspondent) each share the "most" fun politics story they've worked on. Deepa talks about working on her "dream" assignment during the 2024 presidential race. Don recalls a reporting trip during the 2012 presidential campaign where he ended up at a high school football game. He says it was "one of the best nights of his life." Listen to find out how you can submit a most-type question for us to answer in a future bonus episode! To unlock this and other bonus content, and get sponsor-free listening, sign up for NPR Politics Podcast+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Regular episodes haven't changed and remain available every weekday!
Video Weekend health news roundup
Is the brutal cold making flu numbers worse? Plus, life expectancy at an all-time high and what doctors say about being a “night owl.”
30% More Efficient? The Math Behind Aero vs. Steel
The data is clear: Aerodynamics provided a massive efficiency gain, allowing me to match a significantly stronger rider on the flats. Here is the math, plus the latest on the Vingegaard fan crash.
TV tonight: Phil Collins reveals his health issues and 24-hour live-in nurse
A candid chat between the ‘hardest working man’ in rock and Zoe Ball. Plus, how will it end for DS Lucey in Blackshore? Here’s what to watch this evening
Scanlon’s campaign, Bronin endorsement: CT Politics news
Plus: Updates on the Connecticut Education Issues Summit, the Council of Small Towns, and the Planning and Development Committee.
Epstein files release raises key question for Trump administration: From the Politics Desk
Plus, a Democratic divide in California with 2026 and 2028 campaign implications.
Another government shutdown looms -- what you need to know : The NPR Politics Podcast
After immigration officials killed two people in Minneapolis this month, congressional Democrats demanded funding for immigration action be separated from other government funding. That's leading to a potential, partial, government shutdown. We unpack the latest from Capitol Hill.Then, why did the FBI raid Fulton County, Ga.'s election center this week, and what does it have to do with President Trump's continued false claims that the 2020 presidential election was stolen?And, we bid a fond farewell to one of our podcast stalwarts.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, immigration policy correspondent Ximena Bustillo, political reporter Stephen Fowler, senior political editor & correspondent Domenico Montanaro, and political correspondent Sarah McCammon.This podcast was produced and edited by Casey Morell & Bria Suggs.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
January 30, 2026
A flu variant called subclade K emerged too late to be fully covered by this year’s vaccine. But the flu shot can still help protect you. Plus, a new study suggests dogs began to diversify about 11,000 years earlier than we thought. And, in turbulent times, it helps to hear stories of resilience. What can we learn from 3.5 billion-year-old bacteria that eat light?
Falcons hire Ian Cunningham; NBA, MLB Power Rankings; Top 25 NFL stories of 2025
Plus Buffalo's Josh Allen has his recovery timeline after undergoing foot surgery
Another Crisis. Another Offramp. And Washington Chugs Along.
Plus, Tulsi Gabbard has spent months probing the 2020 election and Trump is set to name his pick to lead the Fed.
Illinois overscomes clunky start, extends winning streak to 10
CHAMPAIGN — Illinois freshman sensation Keaton Wagler was welcomed with an especially loud cheer from the State Farm Center crowd as he was introduced on Thursday night. And for a microscopic moment, it appeared history could continue to follow him as he was the only Illini to score points through the first six-plus minutes of […]
The race to avoid another shutdown: From the Politics Desk
Plus, Tom Homan's new approach in Minneapolis.
Minnesota shooting blurs political lines around guns : The NPR Politics Podcast
Alex Pretti was carrying a permitted gun when he had a confrontation with federal agents who ultimately shot and killed him. While the Trump administration pointed to his gun as a reason for agents to fear for their safety, pro-gun groups argued Pretti had a right to carry. We discuss the rhetoric around guns and how marginalized communities in Minneapolis have been increasingly turning toward gun ownership.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, domestic extremism correspondent Odette Yousef, and senior political editor and correspondent Mara Liasson.This podcast was produced and edited by Lexie Schapitl and Bria Suggs.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
‘OPB Politics Now’: ICE, transportation and a looming state budget hole
Oregon lawmakers return to Salem, plus the Republican gubernatorial primary field continues to expand.
Jon Gosselin 'could have died' shortly before his wedding from common health emergency
“Jon & Kate Plus 8” star Jon Gosselin had a scary medical emergency shortly before his recent wedding to Stephanie Lebo last year.
City & State New York Recognizes Two Leaders From NYC Health + Hospitals And MetroPlusHealth On 2026 "Trailblazers in Healthcare" List - NYC Health + Hospitals
NYC Health + Hospitals announced that NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst Director of Oral and maxillofacial surgery Dr. Maryam Akbari and MetroPlusHealth
City & State New York Recognizes Two Leaders From NYC Health + Hospitals And MetroPlusHealth On 2026 "Trainblazers in Healthcare" List - NYC Health + Hospitals
NYC Health + Hospitals announced that NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst Director of Oral and maxillofacial surgery Dr. Maryam Akbari and MetroPlusHealth
Entertainment: Domes Train Steams Up Cold Weekend
Plus: Ice Bear Fest, if cold (or beer) is your thing.
How Trump decided to shift his strategy in Minnesota: From the Politics Desk
Plus, tensions between the U.S. and Iran are ratcheting up again.
Giannis Reaction, NFL Coaching Carousel, and State of the Agent Business
The guys dive straight into the latest news around Giannis Antetokounmpo, as well as the NFL coaching carousel. Speaking of coaches, today’s edition of Five-Minute Max has to do with yesterday’s Bill Belichick news. Plus, after what transpired at Clemson, Rich wants to talk about the state of the agent business, including why ‘Jerry Maguire’ actually hurt that business!
Internal review contradicts Trump administration on Alex Pretti shooting : The NPR Politics Podcast
An initial internal review into federal immigration officers’ fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis last weekend contradicts the description of the incident by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. We discuss President Trump’s shifting messages on immigration policy and how his administration’s efforts to restrict legal immigration pathways are changing the political environment. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, immigration policy correspondent Ximena Bustillo, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Bria Suggs and Lexie Schapitl, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
PlayStation Plus Monthly Games lineup for February 2026 announced
Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced the February 2026 Monthly Games lineup for PlayStation Plus Essential subscribers. All titles will be available from February 3, 2026 until March 2, 202…
This 'perfect' Amazon Fire TV is on sale for under $200 right now — plus 5 more can't-miss TV deals
You don't need to spend a fortune to upgrade your TV.
Gemini details AI Plus limits, rolls out NotebookLM integration on iOS
Google brought the AI Plus subscription to the US yesterday, and here’s how it upgrades usage limits in the Gemini app.
Do college sports actually want rules? How high should Indiana be ranked? Mandel’s Mailbag
Plus, why the SEC and Big Ten control the CFP, what coaching hires were actually downgrades and Deion Sanders' future at Colorado.
The Two Big Decisions Facing Democrats Ahead of a Shutdown
Plus, senators work on a last-minute budget deal on immigration enforcement, and Tom Homan presented his list of demands to Minnesota leaders.
Barry Keoghan Is Nearly Unrecognizable with Long Hair in London, Plus Halle Berry, King Charles, Queen Camilla and More
Barry Keoghan is nearly unrecognizable with long hair in London, plus Halle Berry, King Charles, Queen Camilla and more. From London to Los Angeles, and everywhere in between, see what your favorite stars are up to.
Exclusive: First look at Samsung’s 25W wireless charger, possibly for Galaxy S26
The Galaxy S26 Ultra supports up to 25W fast wireless charging, and we have the first images of its 25W wireless charger.
Investment and Statecraft: The International Politics of Sovereign Wealth Funds - Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
In 1953, Kuwait established the world’s first sovereign wealth fund to invest the country’s oil revenues and generate returns that would reduce its reliance on a single resource. Since then, over 100 separate funds have been created to preserve national wealth and ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. Today, they manage over $10 trillion in global assets. In this discussion with GJIA, political economist Kathryn Lavelle explains the increasingly novel dynamics that surround fund behavior and what the world can come to expect from their growing presence in international financial markets. GJIA: When it comes to the roles sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) play in global markets and politics, what would you say makes them unique? Kathryn Lavelle: Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) operate on behalf of governments as investors. That in itself is a strange relationship. Within them, a core contest takes place between the state’s interests (or sovereign) part of the dynamic, and the money interests (or wealth) part of it, and these two aspects are frequently in contradiction, serving fundamentally different goals. SWFs are also quite fascinating because when you talk to the people who manage these funds, they have an interest in convincing you that the decisions are made almost exclusively on a financial basis—they really will go to great lengths to differentiate their government owners and those who make the management decisions. At the same time, these people ultimately answer to someone in power. Therefore, for most SWFs, it remains deeply unclear who is actually making the investment decisions and for what purposes. Of course, it is not always clear how other vehicles, such as hedge funds and private equity make the decisions they do, but I think what a lot of people find particularly disconcerting about SWFs is that they seem to act on behalf of people who have a different identity from their own. People who could be trying to manipulate politics and markets in a way that would have a long-term effect on their own populations. Regular investors come and go at will, and they only share an interest in profit as far as most of us understand. However, SWFs have that extra “sovereign” part right behind them that obscures their true interest. GJIA: These funds can be found in countries all across the globe, in both authoritarian states and democracies. Would you say SWFs differ in their goals and structures between regime-type? KL: It is not necessarily regime type that makes the goals and structures of SWFs different. It has to do with their economies. Let’s look at a country like China. There’s going to be a debate about exactly how to characterize the regime, but it is a country with many different kinds of sovereign wealth funds, and a particularly opaque state connection to each. At one time, some of the state-owned Chinese oil companies created specialized investment vehicles listed outside Chinese markets that excluded parts of the firms that were more associated with human rights violations. At the same time, the China Investment Corporation (CIC)—China’s largest SWF—draws a lot of concern, not necessarily because of its investment activities, but because of the dynamics of global politics. So, I wouldn’t really tie differences to regime types themselves in a wholesale way, but rather to how such funds are perceived and how they are structured. Saudi Arabia’s SWF is getting all kinds of attention for its involvement in Hollywood, and this takes me right back to when I was a student in the 1980s, when people were concerned about Japanese investment entities buying assets in Hollywood. They aren’t quite the same in financial terms, but it’s the same kind of concern about foreign investment that drives people to be suspicious, and the whole idea that “foreigners are influencing Hollywood.” This holds true across industries, and it reflects where politics are in places like the United States right now. One metric we can try to look at is transparency, where all the funds will tell you, “we are transparent.” The problem you’ll keep running into with this approach is how you value things. When trying to do comparative studies of equity markets, you’ll find that every country doesn’t use Generally Accepted Accounting Principles like we do in the United States. A fund may appear opaque politically and not want people to show what they’re invested in or what their intent with that investment is, but they could also just not be able to report it because of the way it was purchased, or the kinds of shares they purchased. There are some assets out there that really are difficult to put a monetary value on. GJIA: To what extent do domestic politics shape SWF behavior in both the investing “home” country and the recipient “host” country? KL: This depends on the type of fund present and also on the extent to which voters’ political views are able to influence the fund. For example, in a democratic home state like Norway, the SWF doesn’t invest in nuclear weapons or tobacco because of social concerns, but there is a continuing debate over whether it should invest in oil, even though that’s where most of the money comes from. The degree to which Norway will continue to make those investments, and whether they contradict the government’s overall climate goals, is an open question in Norwegian politics. Because of the way the fund’s governance is structured, it may not be easy to resolve. On the other hand, some people consider pension funds, like the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) in Ohio, to be quasi-SWF. They have a very strict separation between the people who make up the management division and the fund owners. No teacher or professor would want to invest in things that may harm the future of their students. At the same time, a fund manager might see an opportunity in a diversified multinational corporation that offers a good return, despite it deriving part of its revenue from e-cigarettes. These contests are very apparent. Domestic politics can work in host countries too. A good example is Singapore’s SWF, Temasek, investing in Thailand’s telecommunications sector. If you study political economy, you already know that countries everywhere are uncomfortable with foreign ownership of their telecom sectors because a foreign entity could monitor or manipulate our communications with each other. In the case of Temasek, there was significant pushback from Thai citizens surrounding the deal, which went on to influence national political sentiment toward Singapore as a whole, underscoring the risks some SWFs may face with their investment choices. In this case, fund behavior led to the dissolution of the entire Thai government in 2006 and a subsequent coup d’état. GJIA: To address some of this unease, the Santiago Principles were established in 2009 to ostensibly promote trust and transparency. From your perspective, have these mechanisms actually changed fund behavior? KL: In international relations theory, we always like to have a clear set of norms and best practices—the orientation we want the proverbial ship to be going in. In that regard, the Santiago Principles at least got the discussion going about which direction SWFs should take at a time when people were very skittish about the growing size of these funds. Nobody wanted them to be out there and potentially destabilizing economies, so talks about disclosure, conditions for withdrawal, and the independence of managers were helpful when initiated. The biggest stumbling block was that there wasn’t exactly a good way to measure compliance with the Principles, let alone how to hold funds to them. If you read the Principles, they’re overall quite vague. In general, a fund doesn’t want to reveal how and why they make certain investment decisions because that information is proprietary—a fund makes money off of how and why it makes decisions—so how do you reconcile that with loosely-defined ideas of openness? Some decisions might have a political purpose. The bottom line is that trying to figure out and assign a score to compliance is not easy, and it is therefore the reason why the Santiago Principles never really got off the ground to the point where they could truly direct fund behavior. GJIA: Many emerging markets are looking to build their own SWFs from mineral and oil revenues. Historically, have funds shaped development trajectories in these countries? KL: I think the big story in international emerging markets investment is that the investment is increasingly no longer unidirectional. In the past multinational corporations of primarily Western background were the main form of foreign direct investment in a country. That has changed dramatically, to the point where you have companies from so-called “developing countries” taking over companies in the United States. Therefore, the landscape of international investment has changed, and I think SWFs are certainly a possibility to be the next step in the game. Historically, you didn’t need an entire financial vehicle to reinvest commodity revenues in your country, but as emerging markets get more financially sophisticated, their capacity to operate such funds has increased. SWFs would allow treasuries to move from relying on holding foreign exchange assets like cash or government bonds to having broader financial markets and targeted growth areas, while easing pressure on welfare expenditures. GJIA: With their increasing financial weight, do you see the presence of SWFs being a factor in the political choices leaders will have to make with regard to domestic and foreign policy? KL: It will depend on just how big the funds get. One of the reasons people are already apprehensive is because of their scale, and if certain SWFs in certain countries achieve a large-enough size, the presence will absolutely be cause for concern. The other factor political leaders will have to consider are their objectives. It’s not always clear how to define a SWF, or even where its activity is concentrated, but it is certainly a worry from the perspective of national security of opaque external investment. More than that, I think one of the most interesting questions going forward is whether the United States, the home to the world’s largest financial markets, will develop its own fund, for which the Trump administration announced a plan. There have also been several proposals in Congress. Were it to come into being, it would have tremendous weight. At the same time, one of the hallmarks of U.S. capitalism is a lack of government ownership of shares, so it would not be clear how such a fund would be received in domestic politics, or which direction it would take. Given how politically fragmented the country is, a Democratic administration would likely be concerned about different sectors of the economy, such as healthcare, and want investment there, rather than a Republican administration, which might prefer defense industries. No investment vehicle could thrive under conditions of such instability. Moreover, it remains unclear where the money to fund a theoretical U.S. SWF would come from. It would be a fundamentally different entity depending on whether it is financed with debt, economic surplus, commodities, or the sale of state companies, as in the case of Singapore. If it is debt, or government borrowing of some form, then the fund would have to outperform whatever the cost of that debt is, which is not an easy thing to do. I think our political leaders have enough on their plate. Our system has worked well keeping political and investment functions generally separate. We have seen different forms of business rise and fall, and even the perception of different countries, all of which funds are tied to. Unless a major SWF either starts—like in the case of the United States—or collapses—an issue that concerns the Saudis, I don’t see any political tsunamis on the horizon. . . . Kathryn Lavelle is the Ellen and Dixon Long Professor of World Affairs at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Her research explores the exchange between domestic and international and political institutions with a particular emphasis on political economy and multilateralism. Dr. Lavelle’s first book, The Politics of Equity Finance in Emerging Markets, explored the political circumstances that surround large issues of stock in the developing world. After being granted tenure at Case Western, she was awarded an American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship and named the William A. Steiger fellow, a designation given to the most promising political scientist in her class of fellows. While in Washington during 2006-2007, she worked on the staff of the House Committee on Financial Services on issues related to domestic and international monetary policy. Dr. Lavelle holds a PhD in political science from Northwestern University; an M.A. in government and foreign affairs from the University of Virginia; and a bachelor’s degree in international economics from Georgetown University. She is a permanent member of the New York Council on Foreign Relations. This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity and length. Interview conducted by Sid Mehrotra. Image Credit: Jason Leung, Unsplash Content Licenses, via Unsplash
PlayStation Plus Free Games For February 2026 Revealed
Here's the list of free games that PS Plus subscribers can claim in February 2026.
How scientists predict big winter storms : Short Wave
This past weekend, Winter Storm Fern struck the States. Sleet, snow and ice battered Americans all the way from New Mexico to New York. Scientists predicted its arrival in mid-January, and in anticipation of the storm, more than 20 state governors issued emergency declarations. But how did scientists know so much, so early, about the approaching storm? NPR climate reporter Rebecca Hersher says it has to do with our weather models… and the data we put into them. Which begs the question: Will we continue to invest in them?Interested in more science behind the weather? Check out our episodes on better storm prediction in the tropics and how the Santa Ana winds impact the fire season this time of year. Have a question we haven’t covered? Email us at shortwave@npr.org. We’d love to consider it for a future episode! Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.This episode was produced by Hannah Chinn. It was edited by our showrunner Rebecca Ramirez. Tyler Jones and Rebecca Hersher checked the facts. The audio engineer was Robert Rodriguez. News clips were from CBS Boston, Fox Weather, Fox 4 Dallas-Fort Worth, and PBS Newshour.
Yes, romance & fantasy novels are political. : It's Been a Minute
How do romantic tropes and fantasies impact how you understand politics?You might be a fan of Romantic Fantasy, or as the internet calls it: Romantasy. Even if you're not, you would recognize the tradwives or fascism. Romantasies combine supernatural characters and plotlines with the rush of a whirlwind romance novel, and, in this episode, we're exploring how the politics of some of these books have an effect on politics in the real world.Brittany is joined by Netta Baker, Advanced Instructor of English at Virginia Tech, and Princess Weekes, video essayist and online pop culture critic. They get into how this genre demolishes misogyny while reinforcing conservative politics.Support Public Media. Join NPR Plus.Follow Brittany Luse on Instagram: @bmluseFor handpicked podcast recommendations every week, subscribe to NPR’s Pod Club newsletter at npr.org/podclub.
Galaxy S26 confirmed to feature satellite communication
The Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra have received FCC certifications, confirming they feature satellite communication.
How the midterms are shaping up: From the Politics Desk
Plus, the latest immigration enforcement news from Minneapolis, Washington and beyond.
Deal Ticker: Loews to Add Third Hotel in Arlington Entertainment District
Plus: Dubai's Sobha Realty buys 100 acres in Frisco, Partners Real Estate taps former Stream Realty exec to lead Dallas market, and more.
Senate Dems demand immigration enforcement reforms before funding DHS : The NPR Politics Podcast
Congress may be headed toward a partial government shutdown. After a federal immigration officer fatally shot Alex Pretti last weekend in Minneapolis, Senate Democrats say they won’t vote to fund the Department of Homeland Security without changes to how the federal government enforces immigration laws. We discuss what Democrats want, what Republicans are offering, and the political risks of another government shutdown. This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, congressional reporter Sam Gringlas, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Google's more affordable AI Plus plan rolls out to all markets, including the U.S.
Gemini 3 Pro and other AI tools are now available globally through the Google AI Plus plan, which is $7.99 per month in the United States.
Google Brings Cheaper $7.99 'AI Plus' Plan to 35 Countries, Including U.S.
Google today announced that it is expanding its more affordable Google AI Plus subscription plan to 35 countries and territories, including the United States. In the U.S., Google AI Plus is priced at $7.99, giving Google Gemini users a more affordable option for accessing upgraded AI services. Prior to now, Google AI Pro was the most affordable AI subscription plan at $19.99 per month.
Google AI Plus is now available in the US for $8 a month
Google AI Plus, the company’s most affordable AI subscription plan, is now rolling out in the US.
Google AI Plus comes to US for $7.99, Google One 2 TB upgraded
After introducing the plan internationally in September, Google is bringing its AI Plus subscription to 35 new countries, including the US.
Business Notes: Jamestown Pie to return under new name, wine bar to open soon
Jamestown Pie Company will reopen next month as Pie & Dine, plus more business news from the Historic Triangle.
Google AI Overviews follow up questions jump you directly to AI Mode
This will result in less traffic to your site and more traffic to Google's AI Mode. Plus, Gemini 3 is now powering all AI Overviews globally by default.
The Download: OpenAI’s plans for science, and chatbot age verification
Plus: tech workers are urging their CEOs to speak out against ICE
Minneapolis and Washington respond to another DHS shooting: From the Politics Desk
Plus, the Trump administration's media playbook for these incidents.
Does Alex Pretti’s death mark a turning point for Trump? : The NPR Politics Podcast
The fatal shooting by federal immigration officers of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen and an intensive care unit nurse at the VA, escalated tensions surrounding the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement surge in Minneapolis and prompted bipartisan calls for investigation. We discuss whether the incident could mark a turning point for the president.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, Minnesota Public Radio host Clay Masters, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
Southwest Airlines officially ends longstanding open-seating model, begins plus-size pricing change
Southwest Airlines ends its famous open-seating policy and implements new rules requiring plus-size passengers to purchase extra tickets in advance.
Burnham blocked: Has Starmer messed up?
Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss the fallout from the NEC’s decision to block Andy Burnham from standing in the Gorton and Denton byelection. Plus, Pippa previews her trip to China with Keir Starmer