How the World Sees an American President on His Birthday

The Kennedy Center recently removed the name of the current president, a violation of federal law, reinstating its identity as a memorial to John F. Kennedy. This incident reflects a broader narrative analyzed in “The Trump Files,” highlighting how Donald Trump’s presidency increasingly personalizes public institutions. Observers question whether these institutions can maintain independence amidst such a shift. Events such as Trump’s military actions and the controversial UFC event on the White House lawn illustrate a dramatic fusion of politics and performance. Internationally, the Trump era raises concerns about the survival of democratic frameworks as loyalty shifts from institutions to personalities.

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NSF’s Impact on Science and Education: A Personal Reflection

In the summer of 1963, the author attended an NSF Summer Institute that transformed their career in science education, leading to further studies and collaborations supported by NSF funding. This investment in scientific literacy was crucial for the nation’s future. However, recent drastic budget cuts and restructuring at the NSF jeopardize educational programs and research initiatives aimed at fostering innovation. The author raises concerns about the implications of these changes, emphasizing potential lost opportunities for future educators and researchers, thereby highlighting the enduring importance of supporting science and education for long-term societal progress.

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Understanding Prostate Cancer: My Personal Journey

In March 2026, at 85 years old, my PSA score was shockingly high at 33.5 ng/ml, compared to 1.84 ng/ml a decade prior. My new doctor included this test, which revealed prostate cancer after an MRI and biopsy. My treatment involves hormone therapy followed by radiation, showcasing advancements in cancer care. I learned that age doesn’t guarantee immunity from cancer and emphasized the importance of understanding one’s health and treatment options for a meaningful life.

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From Covid to Ebola: The Dangerous Consequences of Dismantling Public Health

The Trump administration’s decision to dismantle much of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and sharply reduce foreign health assistance has become a central issue in evaluating the current Ebola crisis in the Congo. Public health experts argue that the cuts weakened the international disease surveillance network that had been built after the catastrophic West African Ebola epidemicA of 2014–2016.

Between 2001 and 2024, USAID operated on an average budget of approximately $23 billion per year.

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The Senate race in Georgia

The Republican primary for the U.S. Senate seat in Georgia features candidates vying to challenge incumbent Democrat Jon Ossoff. Mike Collins, a Trump ally, leads with a confrontational style, but raises concerns about alienating moderates. Buddy Carter represents traditional conservatism but struggles for excitement, while Derek Dooley, backed by Governor Kemp, aims to unify factions as a pragmatic outsider. Other candidates, Jonathan McColumn and John Coyne III, add to the race’s diversity but lack significant traction. Ultimately, the contest reflects broader ideological struggles within the GOP, with Ossoff currently positioned as a formidable incumbent.

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The Georgia Republican 100 Million Dollar Race for Governor

The Georgia Republican primary for governor is marked by unprecedented spending, exceeding $100 million, while candidates focus on cultural issues and tax cuts, neglecting pressing topics like education, healthcare, and environmental concerns. Candidates Chris Carr, Brad Raffensperger, Bert Jones, and Rick Jackson emphasize loyalty to Trump and conservative values, but largely avoid discussing critical issues facing the state. This trend reflects a shift in the party towards ideological conformity over practical governance. The primary highlights a concern that candidates prioritize political rhetoric over addressing the real challenges impacting everyday Georgians.

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The Power of Personal Resistance Against Authoritarianism

The commentary discusses the recent meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, emphasizing the stark visual contrast between the two leaders and highlighting the dominance of white males in Trump’s entourage. It critiques the U.S. media for normalizing Trump’s criminal actions and stresses the importance of personal resistance against authoritarianism. The narrative underscores how local efforts and storytelling are vital in preserving democracy. It argues that collective actions and sharing personal experiences foster solidarity and challenge oppressive narratives, thereby sustaining democratic values.

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Two Sisters Walk to School

On September 5, 1945, a mother and child began their journey of walking to school, a routine that continued as siblings joined them. This narrative intertwines with a heart-wrenching story from March 28, 2026, where a father accompanied his two daughters to school. Despite the innocence of their morning, an unforeseen event shattered their normalcy. The father would forever remember the simple moments shared, filled with love and promise, now tainted by an unimaginable loss that changed everything.

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Witnesses to the Strain of Democracy

The preservation of democracy relies on individuals who interpret its challenges and defend its principles, especially during tumultuous times like the Trump era. Historians, educators, journalists, and others provided clarity and context, reminding citizens of the importance of civic engagement. Figures like Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Heather Cox Richardson highlighted authoritarian patterns, while others like Diane Ravitch and Robert Reich emphasized the significance of education and economic equity. Together, these voices illustrate that democracy endures not just through institutions, but through active participation and discourse among the public.

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