South Koreans Begin Voting to Elect a New President

A hazy, smoky blanket is covering much of the eastern U.S., thanks to a double whammy of Canadian wildfire smoke and dust blown all the way from the Sahara. Skies are turning eerie shades of orange and gray, air quality is dropping, and health warnings are popping up—especially for people with respiratory issues. It’s a surreal scene that’s disrupting daily life and outdoor plans.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a weird weather day—it’s a stark reminder of how interconnected our planet is. Wildfires hundreds of miles away and dust from another continent can mess with the air we breathe. For folks in the East, it means masking up (again) and staying indoors, but on a bigger scale, it highlights how climate change and extreme weather events are becoming harder to ignore.

An Amsterdam museum has uncovered a 200-year-old condom that's shockingly well-preserved—so much so, they’re calling it "in mint condition." The artifact is part of a new exhibit exploring 19th-century prostitution and sexuality, offering a rare glimpse into the intimate lives of people from that era.

Editor’s Note: While it might sound like a quirky footnote, this discovery actually sheds light on how people navigated relationships and health centuries ago. It’s a tangible reminder that some human concerns—like protection and privacy—haven’t changed all that much, even if the materials have. Plus, it’s a fascinating conversation starter about how museums piece together everyday history from objects we might overlook.

A new analysis from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) warns that if former President Trump’s proposed policies were enacted, they’d balloon the national debt by a staggering $2.4 trillion over the next decade. The estimate factors in his plans for sweeping tax cuts and increased spending—raising fresh concerns about fiscal sustainability amid an already strained budget.

Editor’s Note: With the national debt already a hot-button issue, this report throws fuel on the fire. It’s not just about the numbers—it’s a political lightning rod, giving critics ammunition to argue that Trump’s economic agenda could deepen long-term financial risks. For voters weighing economic priorities, this kind of analysis could sway opinions ahead of the election.

England's women's cricket team put on a commanding performance, with openers Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones both smashing centuries to lead their side to a crushing 143-run victory over the West Indies. The win secured the ODI series, showcasing England's dominance in the format.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just another win—it's a statement. England's top-order batters are in blistering form, and their bowling attack backed them up convincingly. For the West Indies, it's a tough loss that highlights the gap they need to close. For fans, it’s a reminder of how thrilling women’s cricket can be when the big names deliver.

Elon Musk is doubling down on his criticism of a bill backed by Donald Trump, taking to social media with fiery posts that include the phrase "KILL the BILL." Sources close to both men say tensions between the two high-profile figures are growing, hinting at a deeper divide over policy or politics.

Editor’s Note: When two of the most influential—and outspoken—figures in business and politics clash, it’s more than just gossip. Musk’s public opposition to Trump’s agenda could signal fractures in what was once a loose alliance, with potential ripple effects for policy debates and even investor sentiment. This isn’t just a feud—it’s a power struggle with real-world consequences.