College Board Drops Testing Requirements
On January 19th, College Board announced the permanent cancellation of all Subject Tests in the United States, with the SAT Essay following suite after June 2021
How One Subreddit Changed the Stock Market Forever
Many have debated the effect of social media platforms on the stock market for years. One subreddit, WallStreetBets, known as a forum for many to discuss stock options and their gains/losses in a more lighthearted tone, has become central in a movement that is rocking Wall Street.
We’re Back: President Biden Reenters International Agreements
One of the unique characteristics is the executive order, an autonomous action by the president that requires no congressional approval. Executive orders and agreements are a complex beast in the American political world; while powerful in making decisive action that is impossible in the sluggish, uncompromising, and polarized Congress, executive orders can easily be overturned by the next administration. Former President Trump is learning firsthand the dangers of passing a majority of his agenda through executive orders, as Trump’s ‘America First’ agenda has been undone quickly and efficiently by the newly elected President Biden, reinstating many landmark initiatives of the Obama Administration. Here are some of the highlights of Biden’s own slew of foreign policy executive orders and some prospective digressions from his predecessor that will require congressional approval.
World Leaders’ Reactions to Biden and Harris’ Inauguration
Following the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on January 20th, reactions from world leaders poured in, mostly to offer their congratulations and to celebrate a “new dawn in America”, as said by president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. In a video she posted on Twitter, she stated, “Europe is ready for a new start with our oldest and most trusted partner.”
The Culprit Behind Sea Star Wasting Disease
Sea Star Wasting disease appeared at a great magnitude in 2013/2014, when the starfish population drastically decreased. However, the syndrome has been present for decades.
Reforming Presidential Pardoning Power
As President Trump’s term is nearing its end, he has been issuing very questionable pardons. There is no question that the Constitution gives the President a vast pardoning power. However, some of President Trump’s pardons have raised questions on how to prevent abuse of this executive power. This article analyzes the constitutional background of the pardoning power, legal precedents, President Trump’s questionable pardons, and what steps should be taken to prevent future abuse.
Federal Stockpile of Vaccines Empty
Not too long ago, states had been eagerly anticipating the arrival of new shipments of the coronavirus vaccine after Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar announced on January 12 that the federal government would be releasing many more doses from their vaccine inventory instead of stockpiling them up for second doses in an effort to get more Americans vaccinated with their first dose. However, it has just been recently revealed that there are no vaccines left in the inventory to ship, a major disappointment and concern for the country, as the number of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to climb dramatically.
A Recap of the Georgia Senate Runoff Elections
Both Jon Ossoff and Rev. Raphael Warnock won against their Republican opponents, giving the seats a 50/50 split, but incoming Vice-President elect Kamala Harris, a Democrat, will be the tiebreaker in any 50-50 vote, giving the Democrats majority control.
Mexico City’s Ban on Single Use Plastics Into Effect
On January 1st, Mexico City’s ban on plastic bags, utensils, and other disposable items took effect. The city of 9 million, one of the largest cities in the world, has spent the last year preparing for this ban. The law was passed by lawmakers in 2019 and Mexico City has been gradually instituting changes since.
Dutch Cabinet Resigns After Scandal
The entire Dutch Cabinet under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Rutte have submitted their resignations to King Willem-Alexander. This comes after a report concluded that poor families were unfairly treated over child care benefits and the government failed to protect these families from being targeted. Rutte has served as Prime Minister since 2010 and has served in elected office since 2003.