The Republicans plan to question three Twitter executives in congress over the suppression during the 2020 US election of data from a laptop belonging to Hunter Biden.

Biden family most corrupt in history, claim Republicans

The US President Joe Biden had his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron hail the essential Washington and Paris ties. Watch this video to know more.

US, France can 'Succeed Together, Not Against Each Other', says Macron

Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for 'war crimes'

The World Health Organization (WHO) is planning to rename monkeypox as “MPOX”, Politico reported citing people familiar with the matter.

The US news outlet reported that a decision on the same would be announced as early as Friday.

The move is being undertaken to destigmatise the virus that was reported in more than 70 countries earlier this year.

It reportedly comes in response to growing pressure from the Biden administration, who is said to have privately nudged the WHO officials to change the name. It is said that the US warned it could act unilaterally if the world health agency did not pay heed to their suggestion.

For months, the Biden administration believed that the virus’ name was deepening stigma, especially among people of colour, and slowed down the vaccination campaign, the newspaper reported.

There were campaigns spearheaded by public health experts and LGBT activists calling for a change in the virus’ name. They argued that calling it monkeypox is inaccurate and permeates&nbsp;already existing racist stereotypes about Africa and is detrimental to the global response.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-president-announces-compensation-for-quake-victims-as-search-for-survivors-continues-536364">Indonesia quake toll rises to 268, 151 still missing, over 58,000 displaced</a>

“In the context of the current global outbreak, continued reference to, and nomenclature of this virus being African is not only inaccurate but is also discriminatory and stigmatizing,” a group of scientists wrote in&nbsp;a joint statement published&nbsp;in June.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-bolsonaro-contests-election-results-alleges-voting-machines-had-signs-of-serious-failures-536593">Brazil's Bolsonaro contests election results, alleges voting machines had 'signs of serious failures'</a>

Monkeypox, which is a relatively mild viral illness, is endemic in several countries in western and central Africa. But it was reported around the world earlier this year.

US Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there are more than 80,000 cases worldwide, with the cases mainly emanating from having same-sex relationships. US had recorded nearly 30, 000 infections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The World Health Organization (WHO) is planning to rename monkeypox as “MPOX”, Politico reported citing people familiar with the matter. The US news outlet reported that a decision on the same would be announced as early as Friday.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is planning to rename monkeypox as “MPOX”, Politico reported citing people familiar with the matter. The US news outlet reported that a decision on the same would be announced as early as Friday. The move is being undertaken to destigmatise the virus that was reported in more than 70 countries earlier this year. It reportedly comes in response to growing pressure from the Biden administration, who is said to have privately nudged the WHO officials to change the name. It is said that the US warned it could act unilaterally if the world health agency did not pay heed to their suggestion. For months, the Biden administration believed that the virus’ name was deepening stigma, especially among people of colour, and slowed down the vaccination campaign, the newspaper reported. There were campaigns spearheaded by public health experts and LGBT activists calling for a change in the virus’ name. They argued that calling it monkeypox is inaccurate and permeates already existing racist stereotypes about Africa and is detrimental to the global response. Also read | Indonesia quake toll rises to 268, 151 still missing, over 58,000 displaced “In the context of the current global outbreak, continued reference to, and nomenclature of this virus being African is not only inaccurate but is also discriminatory and stigmatizing,” a group of scientists wrote in a joint statement published in June. Also read | Brazil's Bolsonaro contests election results, alleges voting machines had 'signs of serious failures' Monkeypox, which is a relatively mild viral illness, is endemic in several countries in western and central Africa. But it was reported around the world earlier this year. US Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there are more than 80,000 cases worldwide, with the cases mainly emanating from having same-sex relationships. US had recorded nearly 30, 000 infections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WHO to rename monkeypox as ‘MPOX’ over stigma, pressure from US: Report

On Monday, the largest of the 12 rail unions in the United States which consists mainly of conductors rejected a proposed labour deal brokered by US President Joe Biden’s administration sparking the possibility of nationwide strikes during the winter holiday season. The deal was once described as a win by Biden while the railroads had called it the most generous contract in modern history.&nbsp;

The largest freight rail union, SMART Transportation Division, representing at least 28,000 conductors, rejected the contract by a narrow margin as 50.8 per cent of workers voted against it. Meanwhile, the second-largest rail union, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen in the country which consists of mostly engineers voted in favour of the deal creating a split among the top rail unions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-outlines-far-reaching-plan-to-reengineer-us-infrastructure-374638">Biden outlines far-reaching plan to reengineer US infrastructure</a>

Reports suggest that a strike like this could paralyse the nation’s rail traffic impacting not only the economy but also the people. According to the Association of American Railroads, a potential strike could cost the US’ economic output at least two billion dollars each day. Meanwhile, the Retail Industry Leaders Association said that such a strike could result in an “enormous disruption” to the flow of goods across the country.&nbsp;

The proposal in question offers an immediate 14 per cent raise along with back pay dating to 2020 and five-year deals which feature 24 per cent raises as well as a $5000 bonus. Once the deal is ratified it could give the union members an average salary of $11,000 per worker.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-midterm-elections-on-november-8-weve-got-more-to-do-says-us-president-joe-biden-531151">US midterm elections on November 8: 'We've got more to do,' says US President Joe Biden</a>

On the other hand, the union argues that it fails to deliver any paid sick days especially since they were working through the Covid-19 pandemic. While this deal does allow them to miss work to attend to medical issues, there are some limitations to this provision as well as that time off is unpaid. However, they did praise the deal which lets the union negotiate some regularity in schedules for round-the-clock jobs like engineers and conductors and called it a big win. &nbsp;

There is no immediate threat of strikes despite the rejection of the deal by four unions which account for nearly 60,000 workers who are now returning to the negotiation table. Meanwhile, the union has reportedly set the new strike date as December 5. While they have agreed to negotiate new deals based on the original framework of the President Biden administration's brokered deal there is not much time left given the deadline. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thieves-in-la-loot-freight-trains-target-amazon-fedex-packages-445261">Thieves in LA loot freight trains; target Amazon, FedEx packages</a>

Notably, in the event of a strike Congress has the power of the Railway Labor Act which enables them to take any steps necessary to get the trains running again, which in this case could include imposing some other version of the contract. But if the strike goes on for a long period of time it can lead to higher prices of goods including food and fuel.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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On Monday, the largest of the 12 rail unions in the United States which consists mainly of conductors rejected a proposed labour deal brokered by US President Joe Biden’s administration sparking the possibility of nationwide strikes during the winter holiday season.

On Monday, the largest of the 12 rail unions in the United States which consists mainly of conductors rejected a proposed labour deal brokered by US President Joe Biden’s administration sparking the possibility of nationwide strikes during the winter holiday season. The deal was once described as a win by Biden while the railroads had called it the most generous contract in modern history. The largest freight rail union, SMART Transportation Division, representing at least 28,000 conductors, rejected the contract by a narrow margin as 50.8 per cent of workers voted against it. Meanwhile, the second-largest rail union, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen in the country which consists of mostly engineers voted in favour of the deal creating a split among the top rail unions. ALSO READ: Biden outlines far-reaching plan to reengineer US infrastructure Reports suggest that a strike like this could paralyse the nation’s rail traffic impacting not only the economy but also the people. According to the Association of American Railroads, a potential strike could cost the US’ economic output at least two billion dollars each day. Meanwhile, the Retail Industry Leaders Association said that such a strike could result in an “enormous disruption” to the flow of goods across the country. The proposal in question offers an immediate 14 per cent raise along with back pay dating to 2020 and five-year deals which feature 24 per cent raises as well as a $5000 bonus. Once the deal is ratified it could give the union members an average salary of $11,000 per worker. ALSO WATCH: US midterm elections on November 8: 'We've got more to do,' says US President Joe Biden On the other hand, the union argues that it fails to deliver any paid sick days especially since they were working through the Covid-19 pandemic. While this deal does allow them to miss work to attend to medical issues, there are some limitations to this provision as well as that time off is unpaid. However, they did praise the deal which lets the union negotiate some regularity in schedules for round-the-clock jobs like engineers and conductors and called it a big win. There is no immediate threat of strikes despite the rejection of the deal by four unions which account for nearly 60,000 workers who are now returning to the negotiation table. Meanwhile, the union has reportedly set the new strike date as December 5. While they have agreed to negotiate new deals based on the original framework of the President Biden administration's brokered deal there is not much time left given the deadline. ALSO READ: Thieves in LA loot freight trains; target Amazon, FedEx packages Notably, in the event of a strike Congress has the power of the Railway Labor Act which enables them to take any steps necessary to get the trains running again, which in this case could include imposing some other version of the contract. But if the strike goes on for a long period of time it can lead to higher prices of goods including food and fuel. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Largest rail union rejects Biden administration labour deal. What could happen next?

In a major turnaround, the Biden administration has told a US court that Saudi Arabia’s crown prince Mohammed bin Salman should be granted sovereign immunity in a civil case brought against him by the fiancée of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.&nbsp;The US government made these observations in an affidavit submitted to the Washington federal court in the case pertaining to the killing of Khashoggi.

Jamal’s wife Hatice Cengiz and the rights group he founded, Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN), have sued the crown prince, his top aides and others for their alleged roles in Khashoggi's killing.

Saudi Arabia says that the prince had no direct role in the 2018 killing of the journalist.

The filings of the Department of Justice revealed on Thursday night stated the administration's decision to try to protect the Saudi crown prince from US courts in Khashoggi's killing is “purely a legal determination”.

<h2>2 years since Jamal Khashoggi's murder: The voice that was silenced</h2>

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“The United States government has expressed grave concerns regarding Jamal Khashoggi’s horrific killing and has raised these concerns publicly and with the most senior levels of the Saudi government,” the Department of Justice said in its filing.

“However, the doctrine of head of state immunity is well established in customary international law and has been consistently recognized in longstanding executive branch practice as a status-based determination that does not reflect a judgment on the underlying conduct at issue in the litigation,” it said, reports the Guardian.

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The request is non-binding and a judge will ultimately decide whether to grant immunity.

The response of the administration invited a sharp attack from the executive director of DAWN, Sarah Leah Whitson, calling it an “unnecessary, elective action that will serve only to undermine the most important action for accountability for Khashoggi’s heinous murder”.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-set-fire-to-irans-ex-supreme-leader-ayatollah-khomeinis-home-535248">Protesters set fire to Iran’s ex-supreme leader Ayatollah Khomeini's home</a>

“It’s beyond ironic that President Biden has single-handedly assured [Mohammed bin Salman] can escape accountability when it was President Biden who promised the American people he would do everything to hold him accountable. Not even the Trump administration did this,” she said

President Biden had been giving cold shoulder to the crown prince ever since he took the office after US intelligence officials claimed that the journalist was murdered at the behest of the prince.&nbsp;Biden even vowed to make Saudi Arabia a pariah state over the assassination.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a major turnaround, the Biden administration has told a US court that Saudi Arabia’s crown prince Mohammed bin Salman should be granted sovereign immunity in a civil case brought against him by the fiancée of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

In a major turnaround, the Biden administration has told a US court that Saudi Arabia’s crown prince Mohammed bin Salman should be granted sovereign immunity in a civil case brought against him by the fiancée of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The US government made these observations in an affidavit submitted to the Washington federal court in the case pertaining to the killing of Khashoggi. Jamal’s wife Hatice Cengiz and the rights group he founded, Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN), have sued the crown prince, his top aides and others for their alleged roles in Khashoggi's killing. Saudi Arabia says that the prince had no direct role in the 2018 killing of the journalist. The filings of the Department of Justice revealed on Thursday night stated the administration's decision to try to protect the Saudi crown prince from US courts in Khashoggi's killing is “purely a legal determination”. 2 years since Jamal Khashoggi's murder: The voice that was silenced “The United States government has expressed grave concerns regarding Jamal Khashoggi’s horrific killing and has raised these concerns publicly and with the most senior levels of the Saudi government,” the Department of Justice said in its filing. “However, the doctrine of head of state immunity is well established in customary international law and has been consistently recognized in longstanding executive branch practice as a status-based determination that does not reflect a judgment on the underlying conduct at issue in the litigation,” it said, reports the Guardian. Also read | North Korea fires suspected ICBM, Japan says it fell in exclusive economic waters The request is non-binding and a judge will ultimately decide whether to grant immunity. The response of the administration invited a sharp attack from the executive director of DAWN, Sarah Leah Whitson, calling it an “unnecessary, elective action that will serve only to undermine the most important action for accountability for Khashoggi’s heinous murder”. Also read | Protesters set fire to Iran’s ex-supreme leader Ayatollah Khomeini's home “It’s beyond ironic that President Biden has single-handedly assured [Mohammed bin Salman] can escape accountability when it was President Biden who promised the American people he would do everything to hold him accountable. Not even the Trump administration did this,” she said President Biden had been giving cold shoulder to the crown prince ever since he took the office after US intelligence officials claimed that the journalist was murdered at the behest of the prince. Biden even vowed to make Saudi Arabia a pariah state over the assassination. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden administration suggests immunity for Saudi crown prince in Jamal Khashoggi killing case

The Biden administration has proposed to bring in a new law to classify thousands of independent workers as regular employees—a move that could shake up the ride-hailing and delivery companies, and other app-based industries who primarily rely on gig workers.

Under the proposed law, which has been unveiled by the U.S. Labour Department on Tuesday, these gig workers would be treated on par with the regular employees and would be entitled to a minimum wage, overtime, and contributions to unemployment insurance.

The new proposal would work on the principle of “totality-of-the circumstances” to analyse all of the factors involved in the working relationship equally.

The department has said that it will use multi-factor economic realities, such as job permanency, how much control workers have over their work and how many opportunities they are given to increase their earnings, among other factors, for determining the working relationship between the employer and gig workers.

“While independent contractors have an important role in our economy, we have seen in many cases that employers misclassify their employees as independent contractors,” labour secretary Martin J. Walsh said in a statement.

“Misclassification deprives workers of their federal labour protections, including their right to be paid their full, legally earned wages.”

Recently, Uber and Lyft have claimed in federal filings that they would be forced to alter their business models if they start treating their drivers as employees, according to the New York Times.

They stated that labour costs would rise 20 to 30 per cent if gig workers are given all the benefits of a regular employee.

The proposal will be published in the Federal Register on October 13 and the public will have 45 days to comment on it.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Biden administration has proposed to bring in a new law to classify thousands of independent workers as regular employees—a move that could shake up the ride-hailing and delivery companies, and other app-based industries who primarily rely on gig workers.

The Biden administration has proposed to bring in a new law to classify thousands of independent workers as regular employees—a move that could shake up the ride-hailing and delivery companies, and other app-based industries who primarily rely on gig workers. Under the proposed law, which has been unveiled by the U.S. Labour Department on Tuesday, these gig workers would be treated on par with the regular employees and would be entitled to a minimum wage, overtime, and contributions to unemployment insurance. The new proposal would work on the principle of “totality-of-the circumstances” to analyse all of the factors involved in the working relationship equally. The department has said that it will use multi-factor economic realities, such as job permanency, how much control workers have over their work and how many opportunities they are given to increase their earnings, among other factors, for determining the working relationship between the employer and gig workers. “While independent contractors have an important role in our economy, we have seen in many cases that employers misclassify their employees as independent contractors,” labour secretary Martin J. Walsh said in a statement. “Misclassification deprives workers of their federal labour protections, including their right to be paid their full, legally earned wages.” Recently, Uber and Lyft have claimed in federal filings that they would be forced to alter their business models if they start treating their drivers as employees, according to the New York Times. They stated that labour costs would rise 20 to 30 per cent if gig workers are given all the benefits of a regular employee. The proposal will be published in the Federal Register on October 13 and the public will have 45 days to comment on it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden govt brings in law to classify gig workers as regular employees

As the use of automation in sectors like education, healthcare, and employment witnesses an increase, the White House on Tuesday proposed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bill of Rights.

The proposed bill is non-binding and suggests practices that developers and users of AI should voluntarily follow so that technology doesn't unfairly put humans in a disadvantageous position.

Watch |&nbsp;How AI and Automation will impact jobs in the future

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It says that all Americans must be protected from unsafe or ineffective systems, discrimination by algorithms, and abusive data collection.

This comes as incidents of algorithms not prioritizing the needs of black patients and those of facial recognition displaying an unfair bias towards darker skin tones came to light.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-doctors-say-new-abortion-laws-have-chilling-impact-on-us-522500" hreflang="en">Joe Biden, doctors say new abortion laws have 'chilling impact' on US</a>

"These technologies are causing real harms in the lives of Americans, harms that run counter to our core democratic values, including the fundamental right to privacy, freedom from discrimination and our basic dignity," said one senior administrator while talking to Reuters.

As per the proposed bill, people are entitled to notice and explanation concerning the AI programs they might encounter.&nbsp;

It also asks companies and other stakeholders including government agencies using AI to conduct significant testing and oversight, and publicise results for stakeholders to understand what a "reasonable starting point is" for taking action on issues, said&nbsp;senior administration officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-sending-625-mn-aid-four-himars-rocket-launchers-to-ukraine-522461" hreflang="en">Biden sending $625 mn aid, four HIMARS rocket launchers to Ukraine</a>

While the proposal is non-binding, the US Chamber of Commerce has warned that if these proposals were to become rules they could hurt businesses.

In a statement, the Chamber's Vice President Jordan Crenshaw said, "There are some recommendations in the AI Blueprint that, if enacted into rules by policymakers, could handcuff America’s ability to compete on the global stage."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As the use of automation in sectors like education, healthcare, and employment witnesses an increase, the White House on Tuesday proposed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bill of Rights.

As the use of automation in sectors like education, healthcare, and employment witnesses an increase, the White House on Tuesday proposed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bill of Rights. The proposed bill is non-binding and suggests practices that developers and users of AI should voluntarily follow so that technology doesn't unfairly put humans in a disadvantageous position. Watch | How AI and Automation will impact jobs in the future It says that all Americans must be protected from unsafe or ineffective systems, discrimination by algorithms, and abusive data collection. This comes as incidents of algorithms not prioritizing the needs of black patients and those of facial recognition displaying an unfair bias towards darker skin tones came to light. Also read | Joe Biden, doctors say new abortion laws have 'chilling impact' on US "These technologies are causing real harms in the lives of Americans, harms that run counter to our core democratic values, including the fundamental right to privacy, freedom from discrimination and our basic dignity," said one senior administrator while talking to Reuters. As per the proposed bill, people are entitled to notice and explanation concerning the AI programs they might encounter. It also asks companies and other stakeholders including government agencies using AI to conduct significant testing and oversight, and publicise results for stakeholders to understand what a "reasonable starting point is" for taking action on issues, said senior administration officials. Also read | Biden sending $625 mn aid, four HIMARS rocket launchers to Ukraine While the proposal is non-binding, the US Chamber of Commerce has warned that if these proposals were to become rules they could hurt businesses. In a statement, the Chamber's Vice President Jordan Crenshaw said, "There are some recommendations in the AI Blueprint that, if enacted into rules by policymakers, could handcuff America’s ability to compete on the global stage." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Biden administration proposes an Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights

Millions of Americans who make less than $125,000 annually will get up to $10,000 (£8,474) in federal student loan cancellations from President Joe Biden's administration.

Additionally, Biden will waive $20,000 in debt for Pell Grant recipients, who are those with the greatest need.

Speaking from the White House on Wednesday, Biden said, "they can crawl out from beneath that debt mountain." Federal student debt is owed by 43 million Americans, who collectively owe $1.6 trillion. Nearly one-fifth owe less than $10,000.&nbsp;

A final extension will be made to the temporary student loan suspension, which was first implemented in March 2020, through the end of this year.

Biden said his approach would provide working and middle class Americans more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-joe-biden-10000-loan-cut-for-university-graduates-509954">"breathing room."</a>

"The burden is so heavy that even if you graduate you may not have access to the middle class life that the college degree once provided," he said, recalling the shame his car salesman father felt when he struggled to pay for his children's education.

According to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-orders-airstrikes-against-iranian-backed-groups-in-syria-509704">Biden</a>, one-third of debtors have student debt but no degree. The worst of both situations

The statement comes after an extended period of heated debate within the White House and increasing pressure from progressive Democrats. Senators Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Chuck Schumer of New York, both prominent Democrats, were among those who urged Biden to utilise his unilateral authority to cancel borrower loans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-special-election-democrats-win-vote-seen-as-last-bellwether-of-public-mood-on-abortion-ahead-of-midterms-509934">US special election: Democrats win vote seen as last bellwether of public mood on abortion ahead of midterms</a>

The $50,000 per borrower plan that Schumer and Warren requested is less than Wednesday's proposal.

According to an estimate from the Penn Wharton budget model at the University of Pennsylvania, a one-time cancellation of $10,000 for each borrower earning a maximum of $125,000 will cost the federal government about $300 billion.

On Wednesday, Mr. Biden responded to this criticism by arguing that his student loan forgiveness plan is the "economically responsible course".

"I will never apologise for helping working Americans and the middle class," he said, adding that "no high-income individual or high-income household will benefit from this action".

Inflation will increase as a result of debt elimination, according to Republicans and some moderate Democrats. Others contend that a generalised debt forgiveness programme is unjust to borrowers who have already repaid their school debts.

House minority leader Kevin McCarthy, a Republican from California, quickly criticised the plan on Twitter: "Who will have to pay for Biden's debt transfer scam? Hard-working Americans who already paid off their debts or never took on student loan debt in the first place," he wrote.

As reported by the BBC, Democratic legislators objected, arguing that eliminating student loans would help reduce economic inequalities across races.

Compared to other Americans, black students are more likely to borrow federal student loans and at higher rates. According to a Brookings Institution study, black borrowers owe, on average, over $25,000 more than their white counterparts four years after receiving bachelor's degrees.

Also WATCH |&nbsp;Apple plans to make iPhone 14 in India after China release

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Millions of Americans who make less than $125,000 annually will get up to $10,000 (£8,474) in federal student loan cancellations from President Joe Biden's administration.

Millions of Americans who make less than $125,000 annually will get up to $10,000 (£8,474) in federal student loan cancellations from President Joe Biden's administration. Additionally, Biden will waive $20,000 in debt for Pell Grant recipients, who are those with the greatest need. Speaking from the White House on Wednesday, Biden said, "they can crawl out from beneath that debt mountain." Federal student debt is owed by 43 million Americans, who collectively owe $1.6 trillion. Nearly one-fifth owe less than $10,000. A final extension will be made to the temporary student loan suspension, which was first implemented in March 2020, through the end of this year. Biden said his approach would provide working and middle class Americans more "breathing room." "The burden is so heavy that even if you graduate you may not have access to the middle class life that the college degree once provided," he said, recalling the shame his car salesman father felt when he struggled to pay for his children's education. According to Biden, one-third of debtors have student debt but no degree. The worst of both situations The statement comes after an extended period of heated debate within the White House and increasing pressure from progressive Democrats. Senators Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Chuck Schumer of New York, both prominent Democrats, were among those who urged Biden to utilise his unilateral authority to cancel borrower loans. Also read | US special election: Democrats win vote seen as last bellwether of public mood on abortion ahead of midterms The $50,000 per borrower plan that Schumer and Warren requested is less than Wednesday's proposal. According to an estimate from the Penn Wharton budget model at the University of Pennsylvania, a one-time cancellation of $10,000 for each borrower earning a maximum of $125,000 will cost the federal government about $300 billion. On Wednesday, Mr. Biden responded to this criticism by arguing that his student loan forgiveness plan is the "economically responsible course". "I will never apologise for helping working Americans and the middle class," he said, adding that "no high-income individual or high-income household will benefit from this action". Inflation will increase as a result of debt elimination, according to Republicans and some moderate Democrats. Others contend that a generalised debt forgiveness programme is unjust to borrowers who have already repaid their school debts. House minority leader Kevin McCarthy, a Republican from California, quickly criticised the plan on Twitter: "Who will have to pay for Biden's debt transfer scam? Hard-working Americans who already paid off their debts or never took on student loan debt in the first place," he wrote. As reported by the BBC, Democratic legislators objected, arguing that eliminating student loans would help reduce economic inequalities across races. Compared to other Americans, black students are more likely to borrow federal student loans and at higher rates. According to a Brookings Institution study, black borrowers owe, on average, over $25,000 more than their white counterparts four years after receiving bachelor's degrees. Also WATCH | Apple plans to make iPhone 14 in India after China release

Student debt: Biden waives off $10,000 in loans for millions

US President Joe Biden is sending out clear and pleasant messages to the American people ahead of the midterms in November that his administration cares for the American people unlike the ultra-right-wing republicans who only want to endorse ex-President Donald Trump`s claims of a stolen election, fueling Capitol Hill riots and "fake claims" of a bad economy. 
 
The Democrats Department of Education`s decision to cancel $3.9 billion in student loan debt associated with ITT Technical Institute, a private, for-profit educational chain that went bankrupt six years ago is a clear signal to the students that it has conceded their demands and cares. The department will automatically cancel all loans for students who attended ITT from January 2005 to September 2016, affecting roughly 208,000 borrowers. 
 
The debt forgiveness comes atop Biden`s signing into law the historic climate change, health care, and inflation reduction besides the semiconductor bill and a slew of other measures aimed at improving the general welfare of the Americans, especially the poor, urban middle class families with low drug prices, tax incentives and creating more jobs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-signs-the-inflation-reduction-act-a-toned-down-version-of-his-build-back-better-plan-507583">Biden signs the Inflation Reduction Act, a toned down version of his Build Back Better plan</a>

Before declaring bankruptcy, ITT had been under investigation for a variety of deceptive practices. "The evidence shows that for years, ITT`s leaders intentionally misled students about the quality of their programs in order to profit off federal student loan programs, with no regard for the hardship this would cause," Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement Tuesday. 
 
Cardona also said that the Biden administration would "continue to stand up for borrowers who`ve been cheated by their colleges, while working to strengthen oversight and enforcement to protect today`s students from similar deception and abuse." Including this most recent announcement, the Biden administration has forgiven nearly $32 billion in student loans. 
 
Even as Budget hawks lobby against broad debt forgiveness, the Biden administration is currently considering what to do about the nation`s $1.5 trillion student loan portfolio, payments on which were suspended repeatedly during the Covid-19 crisis. 
 
Though the most recent extension of the suspension expires at the end of August, many analysts expect the administration to extend the pause again, at least through the end of the year, according to multiple reports in the US media. 
 
Equally, some student loan activists have been calling on the White House to forgive student loan debt, in full or in part, with forgiveness of $10,000 per borrower being one frequently cited option.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-first-lady-jill-biden-tests-positive-for-covid-19-507626">US First Lady Jill Biden tests positive for COVID-19</a>

On Tuesday, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a fiscally conservative group that generally opposes student debt forgiveness, published an analysis of the cost of doing so. 
 
Extending the payment pause for the rest of the year would cost $20 billion, CRFB estimated. And cancelling $10,000 in debt for middle- and low-income borrowers (defined as earning less than $300,000 per year) would cost $230 billion over 10 years. 
 
The CRFB analysts note that the cost would wipe out much of the budgetary savings provided by the climate and health bill signed into law by President Biden on Tuesday. "Combined, these policies would consume nearly ten years of deficit reduction from the Inflation Reduction Act," CRFB said.

(with inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden is sending out clear and pleasant messages to the American people ahead of the midterms in November that his administration cares for the American people unlike the ultra-right-wing republicans who only want to endorse ex-President Donald Trump`s claims of a stolen election, fueling Capitol Hill riots and "fake claims" of a bad economy.

US President Joe Biden is sending out clear and pleasant messages to the American people ahead of the midterms in November that his administration cares for the American people unlike the ultra-right-wing republicans who only want to endorse ex-President Donald Trump`s claims of a stolen election, fueling Capitol Hill riots and "fake claims" of a bad economy. The Democrats Department of Education`s decision to cancel $3.9 billion in student loan debt associated with ITT Technical Institute, a private, for-profit educational chain that went bankrupt six years ago is a clear signal to the students that it has conceded their demands and cares. The department will automatically cancel all loans for students who attended ITT from January 2005 to September 2016, affecting roughly 208,000 borrowers. The debt forgiveness comes atop Biden`s signing into law the historic climate change, health care, and inflation reduction besides the semiconductor bill and a slew of other measures aimed at improving the general welfare of the Americans, especially the poor, urban middle class families with low drug prices, tax incentives and creating more jobs. Also read | Biden signs the Inflation Reduction Act, a toned down version of his Build Back Better plan Before declaring bankruptcy, ITT had been under investigation for a variety of deceptive practices. "The evidence shows that for years, ITT`s leaders intentionally misled students about the quality of their programs in order to profit off federal student loan programs, with no regard for the hardship this would cause," Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement Tuesday. Cardona also said that the Biden administration would "continue to stand up for borrowers who`ve been cheated by their colleges, while working to strengthen oversight and enforcement to protect today`s students from similar deception and abuse." Including this most recent announcement, the Biden administration has forgiven nearly $32 billion in student loans. Even as Budget hawks lobby against broad debt forgiveness, the Biden administration is currently considering what to do about the nation`s $1.5 trillion student loan portfolio, payments on which were suspended repeatedly during the Covid-19 crisis. Though the most recent extension of the suspension expires at the end of August, many analysts expect the administration to extend the pause again, at least through the end of the year, according to multiple reports in the US media. Equally, some student loan activists have been calling on the White House to forgive student loan debt, in full or in part, with forgiveness of $10,000 per borrower being one frequently cited option. Also read | US First Lady Jill Biden tests positive for COVID-19 On Tuesday, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a fiscally conservative group that generally opposes student debt forgiveness, published an analysis of the cost of doing so. Extending the payment pause for the rest of the year would cost $20 billion, CRFB estimated. And cancelling $10,000 in debt for middle- and low-income borrowers (defined as earning less than $300,000 per year) would cost $230 billion over 10 years. The CRFB analysts note that the cost would wipe out much of the budgetary savings provided by the climate and health bill signed into law by President Biden on Tuesday. "Combined, these policies would consume nearly ten years of deficit reduction from the Inflation Reduction Act," CRFB said. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US President Joe Biden pitches for students with a total debt forgiveness of $39 billion

After the assassination of al-Qaeda chief Ayman-al Zawahiri in Kabul, the Biden administration chose not to release any of the $7 billion of foreign assets held by Afghanistan’s central bank on US soil and has halted negotiations with the Taliban on the funds. But at the same time, in order to strengthen international assistance, USAID, the global humanitarian assistance arm of the US, has announced three aid packages worth $150 million for Afghanistan.

This week marks the one-year somber anniversary of the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Following the militant group’s announcement of banning girls from attending schools after sixth grade, this investment is the most recent one to upgrade different sectors in the country. The USAID will give $30 million to the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, for the betterment of Afghan women. An amount of $40 million will go to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the remaining $80 million to Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-in-order-to-address-near-universal-poverty-ngos-demand-assets-to-be-unfrozen-507113">Afghanistan: In order to address 'near-universal poverty' NGOs demand assets to be unfrozen</a>

Biden administration officials cited that Zawahiri’s living safely in Afghanistan, until the drone strike killed him, played a significant role in the decision to freeze funds. This decision also dashes expectations for an economic resurgence in the country. 
 
In conversation with WSJ, US Representative for Afghanistan Thomas West said that the Taliban’s hiding the al-Qaeda chief underlines deep concerns the country has regarding the flow of funds to the terrorist group. When further asked about whether the group can obtain aid for people, the representative responded that the authorities don’t see the group as being responsible enough for managing the assets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/secret-schools-afghan-girls-defy-taliban-take-huge-risks-to-keep-studying-506597">Secret schools: Afghan girls defy Taliban, take huge risks to continue studies</a>

In the past, US President Joe Biden stated that he intends to give the families of 9/11 victims half of the $7 billion fund and the remaining to a trust fund for humanitarian relief to the Afghan people. However, considering that it would ultimately be the Taliban delivering the aid, this option seems out of the relevance line. However, critics have criticised Biden’s decision stating it was an unfair collective punishment for the Afghans. 
 
However, it seems as&nbsp;if the US is now trying to normalise relations with the Taliban. The latest engagements made by the US in form of aid are being looked at as an engagement and reach out to the Taliban to bring the relation&nbsp;back on track.

But now one question arises can the Biden administration after the Zawahiri’s killing go further? The US would want further information on this. On the other hand, the Taliban apparently be seeking recognition and a bailout from its financial crisis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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After the assassination of al-Qaeda chief Ayman-al Zawahiri in Kabul, the Biden administration chose not to release any of the $7 billion of foreign assets held by Afghanistan’s central bank on US soil and has halted negotiations with the Taliban on the funds.

After the assassination of al-Qaeda chief Ayman-al Zawahiri in Kabul, the Biden administration chose not to release any of the $7 billion of foreign assets held by Afghanistan’s central bank on US soil and has halted negotiations with the Taliban on the funds. But at the same time, in order to strengthen international assistance, USAID, the global humanitarian assistance arm of the US, has announced three aid packages worth $150 million for Afghanistan. This week marks the one-year somber anniversary of the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Following the militant group’s announcement of banning girls from attending schools after sixth grade, this investment is the most recent one to upgrade different sectors in the country. The USAID will give $30 million to the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, for the betterment of Afghan women. An amount of $40 million will go to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the remaining $80 million to Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). Also read | Afghanistan: In order to address 'near-universal poverty' NGOs demand assets to be unfrozen Biden administration officials cited that Zawahiri’s living safely in Afghanistan, until the drone strike killed him, played a significant role in the decision to freeze funds. This decision also dashes expectations for an economic resurgence in the country. In conversation with WSJ, US Representative for Afghanistan Thomas West said that the Taliban’s hiding the al-Qaeda chief underlines deep concerns the country has regarding the flow of funds to the terrorist group. When further asked about whether the group can obtain aid for people, the representative responded that the authorities don’t see the group as being responsible enough for managing the assets. Also read | Secret schools: Afghan girls defy Taliban, take huge risks to continue studies In the past, US President Joe Biden stated that he intends to give the families of 9/11 victims half of the $7 billion fund and the remaining to a trust fund for humanitarian relief to the Afghan people. However, considering that it would ultimately be the Taliban delivering the aid, this option seems out of the relevance line. However, critics have criticised Biden’s decision stating it was an unfair collective punishment for the Afghans. However, it seems as if the US is now trying to normalise relations with the Taliban. The latest engagements made by the US in form of aid are being looked at as an engagement and reach out to the Taliban to bring the relation back on track. But now one question arises can the Biden administration after the Zawahiri’s killing go further? The US would want further information on this. On the other hand, the Taliban apparently be seeking recognition and a bailout from its financial crisis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US refuses to release $7bn frozen funds to Afghanistan, but commits to $150mn aid packages

In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the legal right to&nbsp; abortion, the US Justice Department on Tuesday (July 12) announced the formation of a task force to find methods to protect reproductive rights. This Reproductive Rights Task Force, which will be led by Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta, will “monitor and evaluate” state and local laws that might restrict access to reproductive healthcare, outlaw drugs that cause abortions or penalise federal employees who provide reproductive health services permitted by the federal law, CNN reported.&nbsp;

Gupta in a statement said, “The Court abandoned 50 years of precedent and took away the constitutional right to abortion, preventing women all over the country from being able to make critical decisions about our bodies, our health, and our futures. The Justice Department is committed to protecting access to reproductive services.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-says-doctors-must-provide-abortion-services-if-a-mothers-life-is-at-danger-496639">Roe vs Wade: Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if mother’s life is in danger</a>

This announcement comes after the US president signed an executive order on Friday defending abortion rights and urged the Justice Department to “much like they did in the civil rights era, to do something, to do everything in their power to protect these women seeking to invoke their rights." The Biden administration has been working across federal agencies to reverse Roe v. Wade—clarifying the obligations and protections of medical professionals to perform abortions for life or for health-saving measures.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roe-vs-wade-biden-signs-executive-order-on-abortion-access-amid-pressure-from-democrats-495675">Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats</a>

Nevertheless, in light of the court’s decision, the President is unable to take any steps to reinstate the country’s right to an abortion, and the president has openly admitted hate he has few alternatives for increasing access to the procedures. The Democrats and advocates are pressurising the White House to take a stronger stance to codify abortion access.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the legal right to abortion, the US Justice Department on Tuesday (July 12) announced the formation of a task force to find methods to protect reproductive rights.

In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the legal right to abortion, the US Justice Department on Tuesday (July 12) announced the formation of a task force to find methods to protect reproductive rights. This Reproductive Rights Task Force, which will be led by Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta, will “monitor and evaluate” state and local laws that might restrict access to reproductive healthcare, outlaw drugs that cause abortions or penalise federal employees who provide reproductive health services permitted by the federal law, CNN reported. Gupta in a statement said, “The Court abandoned 50 years of precedent and took away the constitutional right to abortion, preventing women all over the country from being able to make critical decisions about our bodies, our health, and our futures. The Justice Department is committed to protecting access to reproductive services.” Also read | Roe vs Wade: Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if mother’s life is in danger This announcement comes after the US president signed an executive order on Friday defending abortion rights and urged the Justice Department to “much like they did in the civil rights era, to do something, to do everything in their power to protect these women seeking to invoke their rights." The Biden administration has been working across federal agencies to reverse Roe v. Wade—clarifying the obligations and protections of medical professionals to perform abortions for life or for health-saving measures. Also read | Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats Nevertheless, in light of the court’s decision, the President is unable to take any steps to reinstate the country’s right to an abortion, and the president has openly admitted hate he has few alternatives for increasing access to the procedures. The Democrats and advocates are pressurising the White House to take a stronger stance to codify abortion access. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Justice Department announces a Reproductive Task Force to protect abortion rights

The Biden Administration declared on Monday (July 11) that healthcare providers must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is in danger irrespective of any state laws in such cases. This advice came after a few days when President Joe Biden issued an executive order to make it easier to get abortion services in the wake of the Supreme Court’s reversing of Roe v. Wade judgement last month. Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, on Monday declared a public health emergency would not necessarily free up resources, citing the government’s costly responses to COVID-19 and monkeypox, Reuters reported.

The Emergency Medical Treatment Active Labor Act (EMTALA) defines a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, abortion is a “stabilising treatment,” that doctors are required to offer that treatment. &nbsp;In addition to this protecting medical staff while providing legally required abortion services in such circumstances, EMTALA mandates that medical facilities identify whether a patient seeking treatment may be in labor or in a situation of a medical emergency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pregnant-woman-in-texas-argues-her-fetus-is-second-passenger-after-getting-a-ticket-496625">Pregnant woman in Texas argues her fetus is second passenger after getting a ticket</a>

The dept in a statement later specified what emergency conditions include, “ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss, or emergent hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia with severe features."

Watch |&nbsp;Thousands march for Abortion rights | Activists call for a 'summer of rage'

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After the Supreme Court decision last month, the White House has come under pressure from Biden’s own party to act for it.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roe-vs-wade-biden-signs-executive-order-on-abortion-access-amid-pressure-from-democrats-495675">Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats</a>

A Reuters poll indicates that more than 70 per cent of Americans believe that a woman and doctor should decide whether or not to have an abortion, and protecting abortion rights is a concern for women.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Biden Administration declared on Monday (July 11) that healthcare providers must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is in danger irrespective of any state laws in such cases.

The Biden Administration declared on Monday (July 11) that healthcare providers must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is in danger irrespective of any state laws in such cases. This advice came after a few days when President Joe Biden issued an executive order to make it easier to get abortion services in the wake of the Supreme Court’s reversing of Roe v. Wade judgement last month. Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, on Monday declared a public health emergency would not necessarily free up resources, citing the government’s costly responses to COVID-19 and monkeypox, Reuters reported. The Emergency Medical Treatment Active Labor Act (EMTALA) defines a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, abortion is a “stabilising treatment,” that doctors are required to offer that treatment. In addition to this protecting medical staff while providing legally required abortion services in such circumstances, EMTALA mandates that medical facilities identify whether a patient seeking treatment may be in labor or in a situation of a medical emergency. Also read | Pregnant woman in Texas argues her fetus is second passenger after getting a ticket The dept in a statement later specified what emergency conditions include, “ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss, or emergent hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia with severe features." Watch | Thousands march for Abortion rights | Activists call for a 'summer of rage' After the Supreme Court decision last month, the White House has come under pressure from Biden’s own party to act for it. Also read | Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats A Reuters poll indicates that more than 70 per cent of Americans believe that a woman and doctor should decide whether or not to have an abortion, and protecting abortion rights is a concern for women. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Roe vs Wade: Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if mother’s life is in danger

Is&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;too&nbsp;old&nbsp;to be&nbsp;president?

It's a question that has provided ample fodder for Republicans and right-wing outlets, while Democrats and most of the American media have been reluctant to broach it.

But as the oldest person ever elected to the top US office prepares for a grueling Middle East tour, debate is mounting over his apparent desire to run again in 2024.

The issue puts Democrats in a difficult position as there is no clear alternative to&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;-- who turns 80 on November 20.

"He's fit to be&nbsp;president&nbsp;right now. But he's&nbsp;too&nbsp;old&nbsp;for the next election," The Atlantic concluded in recent article, while sharply criticizing right-wing claims that&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;is suffering from dementia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-says-doctors-must-provide-abortion-services-if-a-mothers-life-is-at-danger-496639">Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is at danger</a>

Disenchantment with&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;runs deep inside his own camp, with a New York Times poll released Monday showing that 64 per cent of Democratic voters would prefer another candidate in 2024. His age was cited as the main reason for those who want a change.

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;would be 82 at the beginning of a second term, and 86 at its conclusion. By comparison, Ronald Reagan was 77 when he left office in 1989.

Biden's "age has become an uncomfortable issue for him and his party," The New York Times wrote on Saturday, describing a White House that has become protective, even anxious.

Like his predecessors,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;has exhausting responsibilities, from the war in Ukraine and runaway inflation to gun violence plaguing the country and a fiercely conservative Supreme Court.

Quiet weekends

There are certainly many Americans who envy his health, with a checkup last November concluding that he is a "vigorous" man suffering from mild problems with acid reflux and arthritis.

But his appearance betrays the heavy toll taken by the office: his white hair is increasingly thin, his gait cautious.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/gaffe-porn-are-those-making-fun-of-joe-biden-ageist-472738">Gaffe-porn: Are those making fun of Joe Biden ageist?</a>

He sometimes loses his train of thought or stumbles while reading from a teleprompter, and the stutter he overcame as a child periodically resurfaces.

The White House has several times had to walk back inopportune remarks by the&nbsp;president&nbsp;on sensitive diplomatic issues.

Biden&nbsp;gives fewer news conferences and interviews than his predecessors, preferring to publish op-eds in newspapers, the content of which can be carefully controlled.

On the weekends, he often disappears to one of his two homes in Delaware for two or three days. White House correspondents only see him once, at a distance, when he goes to mass.

And when G7 leaders posed for a photo at a June summit, it was impossible to ignore the age gap between&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;and Canadian premier Justin Trudeau, 50, or French&nbsp;President&nbsp;Emmanuel Macron, 44.

Watch |&nbsp;United States: Biden heckled during a White House event by Parkland shooting victim's father

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&nbsp;'Life begins at 80!'

But his aides defend him vigorously, with senior advisor Mike Donilon telling The New York Times that the&nbsp;president&nbsp;wants "to spend four hours planning for how we hit the ground running on domestic policy, when all much younger staff want to do is sleep" on the plane.

Biden, after a minor but much-publicized bike crash on June 18, made a point of getting back in the saddle on Sunday and joking about his misadventure with reporters.

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;is far from the exception in American politics, where many key players are over 70, including his predecessor Donald Trump, who is currently 76.

Trump -- a potential 2024 Republican candidate -- knows the age card plays well, and is keen to use it.

"There are many people in their 80s, and even 90s, that are as good and sharp as ever.&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;is not one of them, but it has little to do with his age. In actuality, life begins at 80!" Trump wrote on his social media platform.

In touch with young voters?&nbsp;

Beyond health issues, there is also the political question of how a&nbsp;president&nbsp;born during World War II can remain in touch with younger Americans.

How does he respond, for instance, to young demonstrators who protested in front of the White House against the Supreme Court removing the federal right to an abortion?

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flood-of-guns-is-turning-us-communities-into-killing-fields-says-biden-496477">Flood of guns is turning US communities into 'killing fields', says Biden</a>

Biden&nbsp;did not have a clear answer, saying: "Keep protesting. Keep making your point. It's critically important."

According to a Morning Consult poll conducted from in April and May, only 43 percent of Democrats between the ages of 18 and 34 believe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;is keeping his promises.

But who could replace him? Commentators are skeptical about the chances of 57-year-old&nbsp;Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris, who would be a natural candidate if&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;withdraws.

A member of the party's younger guard, such as California Governor Gavin Newsom, 54, or 40-year-old&nbsp;Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, would be another option.

But a frontrunner has yet to emerge from the Democratic camp.

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Is Joe Biden too old to be president? It's a question that has provided ample fodder for Republicans and right-wing outlets, while Democrats and most of the American media have been reluctant to broach it.

Is Joe Biden too old to be president? It's a question that has provided ample fodder for Republicans and right-wing outlets, while Democrats and most of the American media have been reluctant to broach it. But as the oldest person ever elected to the top US office prepares for a grueling Middle East tour, debate is mounting over his apparent desire to run again in 2024. The issue puts Democrats in a difficult position as there is no clear alternative to Biden -- who turns 80 on November 20. "He's fit to be president right now. But he's too old for the next election," The Atlantic concluded in recent article, while sharply criticizing right-wing claims that Biden is suffering from dementia. Also read | Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is at danger Disenchantment with Biden runs deep inside his own camp, with a New York Times poll released Monday showing that 64 per cent of Democratic voters would prefer another candidate in 2024. His age was cited as the main reason for those who want a change. The president would be 82 at the beginning of a second term, and 86 at its conclusion. By comparison, Ronald Reagan was 77 when he left office in 1989. Biden's "age has become an uncomfortable issue for him and his party," The New York Times wrote on Saturday, describing a White House that has become protective, even anxious. Like his predecessors, Biden has exhausting responsibilities, from the war in Ukraine and runaway inflation to gun violence plaguing the country and a fiercely conservative Supreme Court. Quiet weekends There are certainly many Americans who envy his health, with a checkup last November concluding that he is a "vigorous" man suffering from mild problems with acid reflux and arthritis. But his appearance betrays the heavy toll taken by the office: his white hair is increasingly thin, his gait cautious. Also Read | Gaffe-porn: Are those making fun of Joe Biden ageist? He sometimes loses his train of thought or stumbles while reading from a teleprompter, and the stutter he overcame as a child periodically resurfaces. The White House has several times had to walk back inopportune remarks by the president on sensitive diplomatic issues. Biden gives fewer news conferences and interviews than his predecessors, preferring to publish op-eds in newspapers, the content of which can be carefully controlled. On the weekends, he often disappears to one of his two homes in Delaware for two or three days. White House correspondents only see him once, at a distance, when he goes to mass. And when G7 leaders posed for a photo at a June summit, it was impossible to ignore the age gap between Biden and Canadian premier Justin Trudeau, 50, or French President Emmanuel Macron, 44. Watch | United States: Biden heckled during a White House event by Parkland shooting victim's father 'Life begins at 80!' But his aides defend him vigorously, with senior advisor Mike Donilon telling The New York Times that the president wants "to spend four hours planning for how we hit the ground running on domestic policy, when all much younger staff want to do is sleep" on the plane. Biden, after a minor but much-publicized bike crash on June 18, made a point of getting back in the saddle on Sunday and joking about his misadventure with reporters. The president is far from the exception in American politics, where many key players are over 70, including his predecessor Donald Trump, who is currently 76. Trump -- a potential 2024 Republican candidate -- knows the age card plays well, and is keen to use it. "There are many people in their 80s, and even 90s, that are as good and sharp as ever. Biden is not one of them, but it has little to do with his age. In actuality, life begins at 80!" Trump wrote on his social media platform. In touch with young voters? Beyond health issues, there is also the political question of how a president born during World War II can remain in touch with younger Americans. How does he respond, for instance, to young demonstrators who protested in front of the White House against the Supreme Court removing the federal right to an abortion? Also read | Flood of guns is turning US communities into 'killing fields', says Biden Biden did not have a clear answer, saying: "Keep protesting. Keep making your point. It's critically important." According to a Morning Consult poll conducted from in April and May, only 43 percent of Democrats between the ages of 18 and 34 believe Biden is keeping his promises. But who could replace him? Commentators are skeptical about the chances of 57-year-old Vice President Kamala Harris, who would be a natural candidate if Biden withdraws. A member of the party's younger guard, such as California Governor Gavin Newsom, 54, or 40-year-old Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, would be another option. But a frontrunner has yet to emerge from the Democratic camp. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Not just a number: Joe Biden's age in the spotlight

President Joe Biden has been given the go-ahead by the US Supreme Court to discontinue the contentious “Remain in Mexico” immigration policy that was implemented under the Trump administration. The Biden administration has worked to abolish the practise of returning certain non-Mexican immigrants who entered US to Mexico rather than holding them or releasing them while their immigration cases were being processed from the start of Biden’s presidency. The Migrant Protection Protocols may be terminated at any time as per the immigration law, according to the 5-4 ruling by the Supreme Court, CNN reported.&nbsp;

This decision on Thursday (June 30) indicated that the hold on Biden’s efforts to stop the programme should soon be lifted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-disburses-13-bn-of-total-75-bn-promised-aid-to-ukraine-493231">United States disburses $1.3 bn of total $7.5 bn promised aid to Ukraine</a>

The government has lost many cases in the lower courts trying to overturn the Trump’s strict immigration rules, so this Supreme Court’s decision is a significant victory for the Biden immigration agenda. The lawsuits opposing additional attempts by the president to change course form his predecessors have been also filed by several of the red states that fought for the termination of the migration programme and these cases are still making their way through the courts.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US Supreme Court allows Biden to end Trump-era 'Remain in Mexico' immigration policy

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A group of conservative states, led by Texas, has filed a lawsuit opposing Biden’s attempt in cancelling the programme claiming that doing so would violate the immigration law.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-to-send-more-weapons-to-ukraine-it-will-not-end-with-russia-defeating-ukraine-493376">Joe Biden to send more weapons to Ukraine: 'It will not end with Russia defeating Ukraine'</a>

They also claimed that the administration’s approach to striking out the protocol programme is in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act which mandates agencies to follow specific procedure when adopting policy.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

President Joe Biden has been given the go-ahead by the US Supreme Court to discontinue the contentious “Remain in Mexico” immigration policy that was implemented under the Trump administration.

President Joe Biden has been given the go-ahead by the US Supreme Court to discontinue the contentious “Remain in Mexico” immigration policy that was implemented under the Trump administration. The Biden administration has worked to abolish the practise of returning certain non-Mexican immigrants who entered US to Mexico rather than holding them or releasing them while their immigration cases were being processed from the start of Biden’s presidency. The Migrant Protection Protocols may be terminated at any time as per the immigration law, according to the 5-4 ruling by the Supreme Court, CNN reported. This decision on Thursday (June 30) indicated that the hold on Biden’s efforts to stop the programme should soon be lifted. Also read | United States disburses $1.3 bn of total $7.5 bn promised aid to Ukraine The government has lost many cases in the lower courts trying to overturn the Trump’s strict immigration rules, so this Supreme Court’s decision is a significant victory for the Biden immigration agenda. The lawsuits opposing additional attempts by the president to change course form his predecessors have been also filed by several of the red states that fought for the termination of the migration programme and these cases are still making their way through the courts. Watch | US Supreme Court allows Biden to end Trump-era 'Remain in Mexico' immigration policy A group of conservative states, led by Texas, has filed a lawsuit opposing Biden’s attempt in cancelling the programme claiming that doing so would violate the immigration law. Also read | Joe Biden to send more weapons to Ukraine: 'It will not end with Russia defeating Ukraine' They also claimed that the administration’s approach to striking out the protocol programme is in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act which mandates agencies to follow specific procedure when adopting policy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden gets green signal from US Supreme Court to end ‘Remain in Mexico’ immigration policy

A new poll published by the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics (IOP) has shown that over a &nbsp;quarter of US residents feel so estranged from their government that they feel it might “soon be necessary to take up arms” against it.

The survey, conducted on 1,000 registered US voters, suggests that extreme polarisation is taking place in US politics.

It also reveals that most Americans agree the government is “corrupt and rigged against everyday people like me”.

The survey comes as a congressional committee is holding public hearings on the January 6 insurrection which stemmed from the false, partisan, pro-Donald Trump belief that Joe Biden did not win the 2020 election.&nbsp;

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-story-so-far-whats-next-key-takeaways-from-the-us-capitol-riot-hearings-491846">From story so far what's next: Key takeaways from the US Capitol riot hearings</a>

In an effort to keep Trump in office, Trump's supporters attempted to thwart certification of the election.

GOP Trump loyalists have insisted that the committee is illegitimate although the violent insurrectionists targeted Republicans and Democrats alike.

Republicans, Democrats and independents were dramatically split even though 56 per cent of participants said they “generally trust elections to be conducted fairly and counted accurately”.

While 80 per cent of Democrats voiced overall trust in elections it dipped to 51 per cent among independents and a mere 33 per cent of Republicans.

Republican pollster Neil Newhouse, who conducted the survey in May with Democratic pollster Joel Benenson, issued a statement saying “While we’ve documented for years the partisan polarisation in the country, these poll results are perhaps the starkest evidence of the deep divisions in partisan attitudes rippling through the country.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new poll published by the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics (IOP) has shown that over a quarter of US residents feel so estranged from their government that they feel it might “soon be necessary to take up arms” against it.

A new poll published by the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics (IOP) has shown that over a quarter of US residents feel so estranged from their government that they feel it might “soon be necessary to take up arms” against it. The survey, conducted on 1,000 registered US voters, suggests that extreme polarisation is taking place in US politics. It also reveals that most Americans agree the government is “corrupt and rigged against everyday people like me”. The survey comes as a congressional committee is holding public hearings on the January 6 insurrection which stemmed from the false, partisan, pro-Donald Trump belief that Joe Biden did not win the 2020 election. Also see | From story so far what's next: Key takeaways from the US Capitol riot hearings In an effort to keep Trump in office, Trump's supporters attempted to thwart certification of the election. GOP Trump loyalists have insisted that the committee is illegitimate although the violent insurrectionists targeted Republicans and Democrats alike. Republicans, Democrats and independents were dramatically split even though 56 per cent of participants said they “generally trust elections to be conducted fairly and counted accurately”. While 80 per cent of Democrats voiced overall trust in elections it dipped to 51 per cent among independents and a mere 33 per cent of Republicans. Republican pollster Neil Newhouse, who conducted the survey in May with Democratic pollster Joel Benenson, issued a statement saying “While we’ve documented for years the partisan polarisation in the country, these poll results are perhaps the starkest evidence of the deep divisions in partisan attitudes rippling through the country.” (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Poll shows a quarter of Americans open to taking up arms against government

The Biden administration has waived off $5.8 billion in student loan debt for 560,000 borrowers who were defrauded by the now-defunct network Corinthian Colleges.

Making the announcement on Wednesday, the Department of Education described it as “the largest single loan discharge the department has made in history.”

Vice President Kamala Harris had initialled sued Corinthian when she was California’s attorney general after it came to the fore that these for-profit institutions engaged in widespread misconduct, deception, and other illegal practices.

Corinthian was founded in 1995, and by 2010, it had enrolled more than 100,000 students across 100 campuses. It was eventually closed in April 2015.

The Department of Education found that Corinthian Colleges misled prospective students about the ability to transfer credits and falsified its job placement rate.

"As of today, every student deceived, defrauded, and driven into debt by Corinthian Colleges can rest assured that the Biden-Harris administration has their back and will discharge their federal student loans," US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement.

"For far too long, Corinthian engaged in the wholesale financial exploitation of students, misleading them into taking on more and more debt to pay for promises they would never keep. While our actions today will relieve Corinthian Colleges' victims of their burdens, the Department of Education is actively ramping up oversight to better protect today's students from tactics and make sure that for-profit institutions – and the corporations that own them – never again get away with such abuse."

The latest move to relax student loans comes as the White House has been reportedly mulling whether to move ahead with broad-based student loan forgiveness.

Most recently, officials were leaning toward wiping out $10,000 for all borrowers who earn below $150,000, CNBC reported.

During his campaign trail, Biden proposed cancelling a minimum of $10,000 in student debt per person as a response to the pandemic, as well as forgiving all undergraduate tuition-related federal student debt from two- and four-year public colleges and universities for those borrowers earning up to $125,000 a year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Biden administration has waived off $5.8 billion in student loan debt for 560,000 borrowers who were defrauded by the now-defunct network Corinthian Colleges.

The Biden administration has waived off $5.8 billion in student loan debt for 560,000 borrowers who were defrauded by the now-defunct network Corinthian Colleges. Making the announcement on Wednesday, the Department of Education described it as “the largest single loan discharge the department has made in history.” Vice President Kamala Harris had initialled sued Corinthian when she was California’s attorney general after it came to the fore that these for-profit institutions engaged in widespread misconduct, deception, and other illegal practices. Corinthian was founded in 1995, and by 2010, it had enrolled more than 100,000 students across 100 campuses. It was eventually closed in April 2015. The Department of Education found that Corinthian Colleges misled prospective students about the ability to transfer credits and falsified its job placement rate. "As of today, every student deceived, defrauded, and driven into debt by Corinthian Colleges can rest assured that the Biden-Harris administration has their back and will discharge their federal student loans," US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement. "For far too long, Corinthian engaged in the wholesale financial exploitation of students, misleading them into taking on more and more debt to pay for promises they would never keep. While our actions today will relieve Corinthian Colleges' victims of their burdens, the Department of Education is actively ramping up oversight to better protect today's students from tactics and make sure that for-profit institutions – and the corporations that own them – never again get away with such abuse." The latest move to relax student loans comes as the White House has been reportedly mulling whether to move ahead with broad-based student loan forgiveness. Most recently, officials were leaning toward wiping out $10,000 for all borrowers who earn below $150,000, CNBC reported. During his campaign trail, Biden proposed cancelling a minimum of $10,000 in student debt per person as a response to the pandemic, as well as forgiving all undergraduate tuition-related federal student debt from two- and four-year public colleges and universities for those borrowers earning up to $125,000 a year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Biden administration waives off $5.8 billion in student loans from college that Harris once sued

White House climate adviser Gina McCarthy on Friday (April 15) denied that she is stepping down from her position.

''Reports that I have resigned from my position as President Biden's National Climate Advisor are simply inaccurate,'' she said on Twitter.

''We’ve made great progress these past 14 months, but we have much more work to do,&nbsp;and I remain excited about the opportunities ahead,'' she added.

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Reports that I have resigned from my position as President Biden's National Climate Advisor are simply inaccurate. We’ve made great progress these past 14 months, but we have much more work to do — and I remain excited about the opportunities ahead.
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“Gina and her entire team continue to be laser-focused on delivering on President Biden’s clean energy agenda,” said White House spokesman Vedant Patel.

A report published in the New York Times stated that McCarthy had expressed frustration regarding the slow pace of climate progress.

In December, Politico had conducted an opinion poll on climate change, in which 80 per cent of Americans said the Biden administration is not taking enough initiatives to tackle the problem.

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In response, McCarthy said “We understand people’s frustration. Would we all like to be running faster and faster? Yes, we would.”

This had triggered speculation that the 67-year-old was unhappy with the way the Biden administration was tackling the issue.

According to McCarthy, "We must redouble our efforts to cut the greenhouse gasses that cause climate change while, at the same time, help our coastal communities become more resilient in the face of rising seas."

“I think we will have a bill that will move this fall,” she told the New York Times.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-climate-change-will-impact-the-worlds-regions-differently-457772">Also see |&nbsp;How climate change will impact the world's regions differently</a>

McCarthy currently leads inter-agency efforts to coordinate domestic climate change policy. She is the domestic counterpart of Biden's special international envoy on climate change, John Kerry.

She was previously the Environmental Protection Agency administrator during the administration of former US President Barack Obama.

Biden chose her as the national climate adviser after he promised&nbsp;solid action against climate change during the US election in 2020.

As the head of the Natural Resources Defence Council, she sued former US President Donald Trump's administration over 100 times for countermanding Obama's policies.

(With inputs from agencies)

White House climate adviser Gina McCarthy on Friday (April 15) denied that she is stepping down from her position. ''Reports that I have resigned from my position as President Biden's National Climate Advisor are simply inaccurate,'' she said on Twitter.

White House climate adviser Gina McCarthy on Friday (April 15) denied that she is stepping down from her position. ''Reports that I have resigned from my position as President Biden's National Climate Advisor are simply inaccurate,'' she said on Twitter. ''We’ve made great progress these past 14 months, but we have much more work to do, and I remain excited about the opportunities ahead,'' she added. Reports that I have resigned from my position as President Biden's National Climate Advisor are simply inaccurate. We’ve made great progress these past 14 months, but we have much more work to do — and I remain excited about the opportunities ahead. — Gina McCarthy (@ginamccarthy46) April 15, 2022 × “Gina and her entire team continue to be laser-focused on delivering on President Biden’s clean energy agenda,” said White House spokesman Vedant Patel. A report published in the New York Times stated that McCarthy had expressed frustration regarding the slow pace of climate progress. In December, Politico had conducted an opinion poll on climate change, in which 80 per cent of Americans said the Biden administration is not taking enough initiatives to tackle the problem. In response, McCarthy said “We understand people’s frustration. Would we all like to be running faster and faster? Yes, we would.” This had triggered speculation that the 67-year-old was unhappy with the way the Biden administration was tackling the issue. According to McCarthy, "We must redouble our efforts to cut the greenhouse gasses that cause climate change while, at the same time, help our coastal communities become more resilient in the face of rising seas." “I think we will have a bill that will move this fall,” she told the New York Times. Also see | How climate change will impact the world's regions differently McCarthy currently leads inter-agency efforts to coordinate domestic climate change policy. She is the domestic counterpart of Biden's special international envoy on climate change, John Kerry. She was previously the Environmental Protection Agency administrator during the administration of former US President Barack Obama. Biden chose her as the national climate adviser after he promised solid action against climate change during the US election in 2020. As the head of the Natural Resources Defence Council, she sued former US President Donald Trump's administration over 100 times for countermanding Obama's policies. (With inputs from agencies)

White House climate adviser Gina McCarthy denies that she is stepping down

President Joe Biden is preparing to order the release of up to 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation's strategic petroleum reserve, according to two people familiar with the decision, in a bid to control energy prices that have spiked as the U.S. And allies have imposed steep sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

The announcement could come as soon as Thursday, when the White House says Biden is planning to deliver remarks on his administration's plans to combat rising gas prices. The duration of the release hasn't been finalised but could last for several months. The people spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the decision.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-makes-the-pure-terror-of-lynching-a-federal-crime-466801">Biden makes the 'pure terror' of lynching a federal crime</a>

High oil prices have not coaxed more production, creating a challenge for Biden. The president has seen his popularity sink as inflation reached a 40-year high in February and the cost of petroleum and gasoline climbed after Russia invaded Ukraine. Crude oil on Wednesday traded at nearly $105 a barrel, up from about $60 a year ago.

Still, oil producers have been more focused on meeting the needs of investors, according to a survey released last week by the Dallas Federal Reserve. About 59 per cent&nbsp;of the executives surveyed said investor pressure to preserve capital discipline amid high prices was the reason they weren't pumping more, while fewer than 10 per cent&nbsp;blamed government regulation.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-apologies-for-saying-putin-cannot-remain-in-power-us-president-biden-466503">&nbsp;'No apologies' for saying Putin 'cannot remain in power': US President Biden</a>

The steady release from the reserves would be a meaningful sum and come near to closing the domestic production gap relative to February 2020, before the coronavirus caused a steep decline in oil output.

The Biden administration in November announced the release of 50 million barrels from the strategic reserve in coordination with other countries. And after the Ukrainian war began, the U.S. And 30 other countries agreed to an additional release of 60 million barrels from reserves, with half of the total coming from the U.S.

According to the Department of Energy, which manages it, more than 568 million barrels of oil were held in the reserve as of Mar. 25.

News of the administration's planning was first reported by Bloomberg.

Watch |&nbsp;United States: Putin misled on how war progressed

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President Joe Biden is preparing to order the release of up to 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation's strategic petroleum reserve, according to two people familiar with the decision, in a bid to control energy prices that have spiked as the U.

President Joe Biden is preparing to order the release of up to 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation's strategic petroleum reserve, according to two people familiar with the decision, in a bid to control energy prices that have spiked as the U.S. And allies have imposed steep sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. The announcement could come as soon as Thursday, when the White House says Biden is planning to deliver remarks on his administration's plans to combat rising gas prices. The duration of the release hasn't been finalised but could last for several months. The people spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the decision. Also read | Biden makes the 'pure terror' of lynching a federal crime High oil prices have not coaxed more production, creating a challenge for Biden. The president has seen his popularity sink as inflation reached a 40-year high in February and the cost of petroleum and gasoline climbed after Russia invaded Ukraine. Crude oil on Wednesday traded at nearly $105 a barrel, up from about $60 a year ago. Still, oil producers have been more focused on meeting the needs of investors, according to a survey released last week by the Dallas Federal Reserve. About 59 per cent of the executives surveyed said investor pressure to preserve capital discipline amid high prices was the reason they weren't pumping more, while fewer than 10 per cent blamed government regulation. Also read | 'No apologies' for saying Putin 'cannot remain in power': US President Biden The steady release from the reserves would be a meaningful sum and come near to closing the domestic production gap relative to February 2020, before the coronavirus caused a steep decline in oil output. The Biden administration in November announced the release of 50 million barrels from the strategic reserve in coordination with other countries. And after the Ukrainian war began, the U.S. And 30 other countries agreed to an additional release of 60 million barrels from reserves, with half of the total coming from the U.S. According to the Department of Energy, which manages it, more than 568 million barrels of oil were held in the reserve as of Mar. 25. News of the administration's planning was first reported by Bloomberg. Watch | United States: Putin misled on how war progressed

Joe Biden planning to tap oil reserve to control gas prices

If media reports from the US are to be believed, the Biden administration allegedly paid nearly the entire corporate media a total of around $1 billion as part of a huge campaign to push only positive coverage about Covid vaccines. &nbsp;

Even “conservative” media outlets were also engaged, The Desert Review claimed in a report. &nbsp;

It said documents gathered through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request filed by Blaze Media showed that the government purchased advertising on TV, radio, in print, and on social media to build “vaccine confidence.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-condemns-airstrike-at-childrens-hospital-in-ukraine-zelensky-describes-it-as-war-crime-460757">US slams strike at kids' hospital in Ukraine; Zelensky calls it 'war crime'</a>

Media networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News, CNN, Newsmax, MSNBC, New York Post, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, BuzzFeed News and hundreds of local newspapers and TV stations were collectively responsible for publishing countless articles and video segments promoting the COVID shots as effective and safe.&nbsp;

The report alleged that the government used taxpayer money to censor any kind of negative information. &nbsp;

In fiscal year 2021, US Congress sanctioned $1 billion for the secretary of health to be spent on activities to “strengthen vaccine confidence in the United States.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laughable-us-denies-russian-accusations-of-biowarfare-labs-in-ukraine-460758" hreflang="en">'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine</a>

The federal government paid hundreds of news organisations to advertise the shots as part of a comprehensive media campaign by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The 'COVID-19 Public Education Campaign’, a “national initiative to increase public confidence in and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines,” was created with the goal of having “trusted messengers and influencers” speak to news organisations to “provide factual, timely information and steps people can take to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If media reports from the US are to be believed, the Biden administration allegedly paid nearly the entire corporate media a total of around $1 billion as part of a huge campaign to push only positive coverage about Covid vaccines.

If media reports from the US are to be believed, the Biden administration allegedly paid nearly the entire corporate media a total of around $1 billion as part of a huge campaign to push only positive coverage about Covid vaccines. Even “conservative” media outlets were also engaged, The Desert Review claimed in a report. It said documents gathered through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request filed by Blaze Media showed that the government purchased advertising on TV, radio, in print, and on social media to build “vaccine confidence.” Also Read: US slams strike at kids' hospital in Ukraine; Zelensky calls it 'war crime' Media networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News, CNN, Newsmax, MSNBC, New York Post, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, BuzzFeed News and hundreds of local newspapers and TV stations were collectively responsible for publishing countless articles and video segments promoting the COVID shots as effective and safe. The report alleged that the government used taxpayer money to censor any kind of negative information. In fiscal year 2021, US Congress sanctioned $1 billion for the secretary of health to be spent on activities to “strengthen vaccine confidence in the United States.” Also Read | 'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine The federal government paid hundreds of news organisations to advertise the shots as part of a comprehensive media campaign by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The 'COVID-19 Public Education Campaign’, a “national initiative to increase public confidence in and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines,” was created with the goal of having “trusted messengers and influencers” speak to news organisations to “provide factual, timely information and steps people can take to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.” (With inputs from agencies)

To promote Covid shot propaganda, Biden administration paid $1 billion to media, says report

The Biden administration announced Tuesday that it intends to contribute $150 million over the next three years to a global effort aimed at rapidly producing a vaccine in case a new biological threat emerges. Still, activists and health experts urged the United States to do more to fight the current coronavirus pandemic.

The financial commitment, which will require approval from Congress, is a small fraction of what is needed for the project being undertaken by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, a global foundation. The coalition’s CEO, Dr Richard Hatchett, has announced a $3.5 billion, five-year effort to “face down the next Disease X with a new vaccine in just 100 days.”

Tuesday’s announcement echoes a plan announced by President Joe Biden in his State of the Union address when he pledged to invest in an effort to produce new vaccines within 100 days of the arrival of future coronavirus variants. The contribution was announced by Samantha Power, administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development, during a summit convened by the British government and the coalition, known as CEPI. The coalition also supports COVAX, the international effort to deliver COVID-19 vaccines to the world, which has struggled to get doses into people’s arms.

“Our eyes, like yours, are also on the horizon — on the epidemic or pandemic that has yet to come,” Power said, addressing the summit’s attendees by video. “While we continue our current efforts to end this pandemic, we are not losing sight of our long-term preparedness goals.”

The administration’s commitment comes as Biden is under pressure to do more to combat COVID, as well as to prepare for the next pandemic. Last week, the administration asked Congress for an additional $22.5 billion to fight the pandemic at home and overseas, and Biden is expected to host his own global COVID summit in the coming weeks.

The president has repeatedly said that the United States has contributed more money, and donated more coronavirus vaccine doses, to the world than any other nation.

But two recent analyses, one by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the other by Public Citizen, suggest the United States is not living up to his promise that the nation would be the “arsenal of vaccines."

The Kaiser Family Foundation’s analysis found that, when donations of money and doses are measured against a country’s gross domestic product, the United States does not lead the world. The analysis found that when gross domestic product is considered, the United States ranks 12th in financial donations and sixth in donations of doses.

“It was a surprise,” said Jen Kates, who directs the foundation’s global health and HIV policy efforts and conducted the analysis. “The White House has said the U.S. is doing more than any other donor. We just wanted to interrogate that a little bit and see: Does it hold up if you look at it from this perspective?”

A new analysis by Public Citizen, titled “An Incomplete Arsenal,” raises questions about whether the administration is falling behind on its timeline to deliver 1.2 billion doses to the world by this fall, as Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged in December.

When the White House announced its new pandemic preparedness plan last week, much of which will also need congressional funding, it no longer attached a timeline to the 1.2 billion doses pledge. So far, the State Department says, nearly 487 million doses have been shipped. To meet the 1.2 billion dose target, the United States would have to donate more than 70 million doses a month — a figure that, Public Citizen notes, is far higher than the current reported monthly donation of about 55 million doses.

“The modest targets that the administration itself set out are likely not to be achieved this year, and that’s shocking,” said Zain Rizvi, an expert on pharmaceutical innovation and access to medicines and the report’s author.

White House officials declined to comment on the Kaiser analysis. But they pointed to Tuesday’s announcement, as well as their funding request to Congress and a plan to ramp up vaccine manufacturing announced by Biden last year, as evidence that the president is committed to doing more.

Vaccination rates continue to lag in low-income countries, even as vaccines become more widely available, for a variety of reasons including vaccine hesitancy and a lack of infrastructure and personnel to administer the shots. Only 14% of the population of low-income nations has received at least one dose of a vaccine, according to the Our World in Data project at the University of Oxford.

The Biden administration announced Tuesday that it intends to contribute $150 million over the next three years to a global effort aimed at rapidly producing a vaccine in case a new biological threat emerges.

The Biden administration announced Tuesday that it intends to contribute $150 million over the next three years to a global effort aimed at rapidly producing a vaccine in case a new biological threat emerges. Still, activists and health experts urged the United States to do more to fight the current coronavirus pandemic. The financial commitment, which will require approval from Congress, is a small fraction of what is needed for the project being undertaken by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, a global foundation. The coalition’s CEO, Dr Richard Hatchett, has announced a $3.5 billion, five-year effort to “face down the next Disease X with a new vaccine in just 100 days.” Tuesday’s announcement echoes a plan announced by President Joe Biden in his State of the Union address when he pledged to invest in an effort to produce new vaccines within 100 days of the arrival of future coronavirus variants. The contribution was announced by Samantha Power, administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development, during a summit convened by the British government and the coalition, known as CEPI. The coalition also supports COVAX, the international effort to deliver COVID-19 vaccines to the world, which has struggled to get doses into people’s arms. “Our eyes, like yours, are also on the horizon — on the epidemic or pandemic that has yet to come,” Power said, addressing the summit’s attendees by video. “While we continue our current efforts to end this pandemic, we are not losing sight of our long-term preparedness goals.” The administration’s commitment comes as Biden is under pressure to do more to combat COVID, as well as to prepare for the next pandemic. Last week, the administration asked Congress for an additional $22.5 billion to fight the pandemic at home and overseas, and Biden is expected to host his own global COVID summit in the coming weeks. The president has repeatedly said that the United States has contributed more money, and donated more coronavirus vaccine doses, to the world than any other nation. But two recent analyses, one by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the other by Public Citizen, suggest the United States is not living up to his promise that the nation would be the “arsenal of vaccines." The Kaiser Family Foundation’s analysis found that, when donations of money and doses are measured against a country’s gross domestic product, the United States does not lead the world. The analysis found that when gross domestic product is considered, the United States ranks 12th in financial donations and sixth in donations of doses. “It was a surprise,” said Jen Kates, who directs the foundation’s global health and HIV policy efforts and conducted the analysis. “The White House has said the U.S. is doing more than any other donor. We just wanted to interrogate that a little bit and see: Does it hold up if you look at it from this perspective?” A new analysis by Public Citizen, titled “An Incomplete Arsenal,” raises questions about whether the administration is falling behind on its timeline to deliver 1.2 billion doses to the world by this fall, as Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged in December. When the White House announced its new pandemic preparedness plan last week, much of which will also need congressional funding, it no longer attached a timeline to the 1.2 billion doses pledge. So far, the State Department says, nearly 487 million doses have been shipped. To meet the 1.2 billion dose target, the United States would have to donate more than 70 million doses a month — a figure that, Public Citizen notes, is far higher than the current reported monthly donation of about 55 million doses. “The modest targets that the administration itself set out are likely not to be achieved this year, and that’s shocking,” said Zain Rizvi, an expert on pharmaceutical innovation and access to medicines and the report’s author. White House officials declined to comment on the Kaiser analysis. But they pointed to Tuesday’s announcement, as well as their funding request to Congress and a plan to ramp up vaccine manufacturing announced by Biden last year, as evidence that the president is committed to doing more. Vaccination rates continue to lag in low-income countries, even as vaccines become more widely available, for a variety of reasons including vaccine hesitancy and a lack of infrastructure and personnel to administer the shots. Only 14% of the population of low-income nations has received at least one dose of a vaccine, according to the Our World in Data project at the University of Oxford.

To fight Covid abroad, US aims to contribute to vaccines for next disease

The US&nbsp;Centres for Disease Control Prevention (CDC) on Thursday said that almost 93 per cent of the population in the US lives in locations where the coronavirus level is so low that people do not need to wear masks indoors.

In an announcement on Friday, CDC eased its guidelines on when Americans should wear masks indoors, saying they can also drop them in counties experiencing low or medium COVID-19 levels.

COVID hospitalizations - a key benchmark for the new masking recommendations - continue to decline, as indicated by the latest figures.

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The CDC, while&nbsp;announcing its revised guidelines said about 70 per cent&nbsp;of US&nbsp;counties and 72 per cent&nbsp;of the US&nbsp;population resides in communities where face coverings are no longer recommended.

The agency on Thursday said 85.4 per cent of counties are now ranked as low to medium risk and about 92.9 per cent of the population lives in those counties.

However, it is&nbsp;still to be determined whether the Biden administration will extend the mask&nbsp;requirements for travelling on airplanes, trains, buses or for transit hubs.

The current transit order expires on March 18 but can be&nbsp;extended. As per the White House the issue is still being evaluated.

The guidelines announced last week shifted its focus from COVID-19 transmission rates to infection rates, local hospitalisation and hospital capacity.

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As per the earlier recommendations, only 5 per cent of the counties fell under the safe zone and could&nbsp;abandon wearing masks indoors, while&nbsp;95 per cent of were&nbsp;considered to be at risk for higher transmission.

Many federal agencies this week have told government employees that they can now stop wearing masks indoors in federal buildings in Washington, D.C. Area or in some low or medium Covid&nbsp;level areas including Pentagon, Transportation Department, Justice Department, State Department and Federal Aviation.

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As per an earlier&nbsp;memo, the White House had directed agencies to revise federal employee masking and testing rules number by Friday.&nbsp;

The guidance said that Federal agencies in counties with low Covid community levels do not need to regularly screen unvaccinated employees for COVID-19. This guidance covers about 3.5 million employees.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Centres for Disease Control Prevention (CDC) on Thursday said that almost 93 per cent of the population in the US lives in locations where the coronavirus level is so low that people do not need to wear masks indoors.

The US Centres for Disease Control Prevention (CDC) on Thursday said that almost 93 per cent of the population in the US lives in locations where the coronavirus level is so low that people do not need to wear masks indoors. In an announcement on Friday, CDC eased its guidelines on when Americans should wear masks indoors, saying they can also drop them in counties experiencing low or medium COVID-19 levels. COVID hospitalizations - a key benchmark for the new masking recommendations - continue to decline, as indicated by the latest figures. Also read | This is how Covid could reverse all the progress made towards gender equality The CDC, while announcing its revised guidelines said about 70 per cent of US counties and 72 per cent of the US population resides in communities where face coverings are no longer recommended. The agency on Thursday said 85.4 per cent of counties are now ranked as low to medium risk and about 92.9 per cent of the population lives in those counties. However, it is still to be determined whether the Biden administration will extend the mask requirements for travelling on airplanes, trains, buses or for transit hubs. The current transit order expires on March 18 but can be extended. As per the White House the issue is still being evaluated. The guidelines announced last week shifted its focus from COVID-19 transmission rates to infection rates, local hospitalisation and hospital capacity. Also read | COVID-19: Western Australia ends closures as the country fully open to travel As per the earlier recommendations, only 5 per cent of the counties fell under the safe zone and could abandon wearing masks indoors, while 95 per cent of were considered to be at risk for higher transmission. Many federal agencies this week have told government employees that they can now stop wearing masks indoors in federal buildings in Washington, D.C. Area or in some low or medium Covid level areas including Pentagon, Transportation Department, Justice Department, State Department and Federal Aviation. Watch | The five stages of the covid Pandemic, as told by Dr Anthony Fauci As per an earlier memo, the White House had directed agencies to revise federal employee masking and testing rules number by Friday. The guidance said that Federal agencies in counties with low Covid community levels do not need to regularly screen unvaccinated employees for COVID-19. This guidance covers about 3.5 million employees. (With inputs from agencies)

New CDC guidelines say that more than 90% of US population doesn't need masks anymore

With the fall in the number of new cases of coronavirus in the US, nearly half of the 500 million free Covid tests made available to the public recently by the Biden administration remain unclaimed. &nbsp;

As the situation of the virus is easing, it seems people feel less urgency to go for the test. &nbsp;

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In the pandemic, wild demand swings have been witnessed, many a time. It has happened with vaccines, hand sanitiser and tests. &nbsp;

COVIDtests.Gov had received over 45 million orders on the first day of the White House test giveaway in January. Now, the officials say that less than 100,000 orders a day are being witnessed for the packages of four free rapid tests per household, which are being delivered by the US Postal Service. &nbsp;

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The White House views the programme as a step towards a deeper testing infrastructure, which will accommodate the demand surges and remain on standby when cases wane. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We totally intend to sustain this market. We know the market is volatile and will come up and down with surges in variants," Dr Tom Inglesby, testing adviser to the COVID-19 response team, told The Associated Press. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the fall in the number of new cases of coronavirus in the US, nearly half of the 500 million free Covid tests made available to the public recently by the Biden administration remain unclaimed.

With the fall in the number of new cases of coronavirus in the US, nearly half of the 500 million free Covid tests made available to the public recently by the Biden administration remain unclaimed. As the situation of the virus is easing, it seems people feel less urgency to go for the test. Also Read: 57-year-old woman gets hit in head with hammer several times at New York subway station In the pandemic, wild demand swings have been witnessed, many a time. It has happened with vaccines, hand sanitiser and tests. COVIDtests.Gov had received over 45 million orders on the first day of the White House test giveaway in January. Now, the officials say that less than 100,000 orders a day are being witnessed for the packages of four free rapid tests per household, which are being delivered by the US Postal Service. Also Read: Drugs or onions? $3 million worth methamphetamine seized in US The White House views the programme as a step towards a deeper testing infrastructure, which will accommodate the demand surges and remain on standby when cases wane. "We totally intend to sustain this market. We know the market is volatile and will come up and down with surges in variants," Dr Tom Inglesby, testing adviser to the COVID-19 response team, told The Associated Press. (With inputs from agencies)

Nearly half of Biden admin’s 500 million free Covid tests for public remain unclaimed in US

The Biden administration will significantly loosen federal mask-wearing guidelines to protect against COVID-19 transmission on Friday, according to two people familiar with the matter, meaning most Americans will no longer be advised to wear masks in indoor public settings.

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday will announce a change to the metrics it uses to determine whether to recommend face coverings, shifting from looking at COVID-19 case counts to a more holistic view of risk from the coronavirus to a community. Under current guidelines, masks are recommended for people residing in communities of substantial or high transmission roughly 95 per cent of U.S. Counties, according to the latest data.

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The new metrics will still consider caseloads, but also take into account hospitalisations and local hospital capacity, which have been markedly improved during the emergence of the omicron variant. That strain is highly transmissible, but indications are that it is less severe than earlier strains, particularly for people who are fully vaccinated and boosted. Under the new guidelines, the vast majority of Americans will no longer live in areas where indoor masking in public is recommended, based on current data.

The new policy comes as the Biden administration moves to shift its focus to preventing serious illness and death from COVID-19, rather than all instances of infection, as part of a strategy adjustment for a new "phase" in the response as the virus becomes endemic.

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The two people familiar with the change spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the CDC's action before the announcement. 
The change comes as nearly all U.S. States that had put in place indoor mask-wearing mandates for the winter Omicron surge are letting them lapse as cases have precipitously dropped nationwide. Some have eliminated the mandates entirely, while others have kept mask-wearing requirements in place for schools and medical facilities.

It was not immediately clear how the new CDC guidance would affect U.S. Federal mandates requiring face coverings on public transportation.

The CDC's director, Dr Rochelle Walensky, has said a change has been in the works.

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"We must consider hospital capacity as an additional important barometer. Our hospitals need to be able to take care of people with heart attacks and strokes. Our emergency departments can't be so overwhelmed that patients with emergent issues have to wait in line," she said during a White House briefing last week.

However, she declined to give a specific day when the CDC would announce a change. CDC officials on Thursday refused to confirm a release date.

The Biden administration will significantly loosen federal mask-wearing guidelines to protect against COVID-19 transmission on Friday, according to two people familiar with the matter, meaning most Americans will no longer be advised to wear masks in indoor public settings.

The Biden administration will significantly loosen federal mask-wearing guidelines to protect against COVID-19 transmission on Friday, according to two people familiar with the matter, meaning most Americans will no longer be advised to wear masks in indoor public settings. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday will announce a change to the metrics it uses to determine whether to recommend face coverings, shifting from looking at COVID-19 case counts to a more holistic view of risk from the coronavirus to a community. Under current guidelines, masks are recommended for people residing in communities of substantial or high transmission roughly 95 per cent of U.S. Counties, according to the latest data. Also read | As United States watches, Pakistan PM Imran Khan 'excited' to meet Vladimir Putin in Moscow The new metrics will still consider caseloads, but also take into account hospitalisations and local hospital capacity, which have been markedly improved during the emergence of the omicron variant. That strain is highly transmissible, but indications are that it is less severe than earlier strains, particularly for people who are fully vaccinated and boosted. Under the new guidelines, the vast majority of Americans will no longer live in areas where indoor masking in public is recommended, based on current data. The new policy comes as the Biden administration moves to shift its focus to preventing serious illness and death from COVID-19, rather than all instances of infection, as part of a strategy adjustment for a new "phase" in the response as the virus becomes endemic. Also read | Morning brief: Russia hit with more sanctions, US accuses Iran of orchestrating cyberattacks and more The two people familiar with the change spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the CDC's action before the announcement. The change comes as nearly all U.S. States that had put in place indoor mask-wearing mandates for the winter Omicron surge are letting them lapse as cases have precipitously dropped nationwide. Some have eliminated the mandates entirely, while others have kept mask-wearing requirements in place for schools and medical facilities. It was not immediately clear how the new CDC guidance would affect U.S. Federal mandates requiring face coverings on public transportation. The CDC's director, Dr Rochelle Walensky, has said a change has been in the works. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: US President Joe Biden targets Russian economy as he imposes sanctions "We must consider hospital capacity as an additional important barometer. Our hospitals need to be able to take care of people with heart attacks and strokes. Our emergency departments can't be so overwhelmed that patients with emergent issues have to wait in line," she said during a White House briefing last week. However, she declined to give a specific day when the CDC would announce a change. CDC officials on Thursday refused to confirm a release date.

CDC to significantly ease pandemic mask guidelines Friday

Republican lawmakers and conservative news outlets have accused the Biden administration of planning to give out pipes for smoking crack cocaine.

Their claims this week refer to a provision in an overdose prevention program announced in December. The program provides funding for “safe smoking kits,” but it makes no specific mention of glass pipes. In response to the outcry, Biden administration officials denied offering funding for such pipes.

Here’s a look at the facts.

What exactly is being funded?

The program, funded by the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package enacted last winter, will provide about $30 million in grants for harm reduction programs, which aim to reduce the personal and public health effects of drug use. There is no specific mention of crack pipes in the grant application materials.

Under the guidelines, grant recipients are required to create harm reduction action plans, distribute overdose medication, help curb the spread of infectious diseases and “purchase equipment and supplies to enhance harm reduction efforts.”

Safe smoking kits are listed as just one of the allowable purchases. The grants also provide funding for disease and drug testing kits, wound care supplies, condoms, syringes and vaccines. In a fact sheet about the program, the Department of Health and Human Services said it did not expect grant recipients to purchase all of the listed supplies.

The grant guidelines do not specify what the smoking kits should include. According to Harm Reduction International, a London-based nongovernmental organization, such kits can contain rubber mouthpieces, brass screens, lip balm, disinfectant wipes and glass stems — the “crack pipes” in question. The contents can vary based on the organization distributing the kit as well as state and local laws on the distribution of drug paraphernalia.

Moreover, the smoking kits are not specific to crack cocaine and can also be given to users of methamphetamine and opioids.

How has the administration responded?

Xavier Becerra, the secretary of health and human services, and Dr. Rahul Gupta, the director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, said in a joint statement on Wednesday that their agencies were “focused on using our resources smartly to reduce harm and save lives.”

They added that “no federal funding will be used directly or through subsequent reimbursement of grantees to put pipes in safe smoking kits.”

Jen Psaki, the White House press secretary, was more emphatic. She told reporters that pipes “were never a part of the kit” and dismissed the suggestion that they would be included as inaccurate reporting. She was most likely referring to an article published Monday by The Washington Free Beacon, a conservative news outlet; citing an unnamed spokesman for the Department of Health and Human Services, the article said the kits would provide pipes.

The department did not respond when asked by The New York Times if glass pipes were ever allowable under the grant provisions.

Why fund safe smoking kits in the first place?

Advocates say the kits are an effective tool for outreach and health and safety education, and many expressed disappointment that the administration would not be providing funding for glass pipes.

“Backtracking on providing critical evidence-based resources that could greatly improve the health of people who consume drugs through smoking is a huge missed opportunity,” Kassandra Frederique, the executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, said in a statement.

HIPS, a harm reduction organization in Washington that applied for a grant under the administration’s program, distributed smoking kits in the 1990s and 2000s. Replacing broken and unsafe glass pipes had the effect of reducing the sharing of equipment and transmittable disease, said the group’s executive director, Cyndee Clay.

“Being able to offer people clean, safe equipment for use, it’s a first step in helping change their behavior,” she said, adding that when HIPS stopped distributing the kits, “our engagement lessened because we didn’t have the right materials to start that conversation.”

Clay said of the grant program, “It’s unfortunate that there is all this controversy over what is essentially a very small part of what this initiative will be able to accomplish.”

Jim Duffy, the founder of Smoke Works, a harm reduction organization and pipe distributor in Boston, described the kits as an early intervention tool that could prevent people from injecting drugs and connect them to other resources.

“It stands in place of something riskier,” Duffy said, adding that “it opens up to entirely new communities HIV testing, referral and health services.”

Duffy, whose organization did not apply for a grant, said he was disappointed that the Biden administration was “baited into a conversation that doesn’t need to be validated.”

Republican lawmakers and conservative news outlets have accused the Biden administration of planning to give out pipes for smoking crack cocaine. Their claims this week refer to a provision in an overdose prevention program announced in December.

Republican lawmakers and conservative news outlets have accused the Biden administration of planning to give out pipes for smoking crack cocaine. Their claims this week refer to a provision in an overdose prevention program announced in December. The program provides funding for “safe smoking kits,” but it makes no specific mention of glass pipes. In response to the outcry, Biden administration officials denied offering funding for such pipes. Here’s a look at the facts. What exactly is being funded? The program, funded by the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package enacted last winter, will provide about $30 million in grants for harm reduction programs, which aim to reduce the personal and public health effects of drug use. There is no specific mention of crack pipes in the grant application materials. Under the guidelines, grant recipients are required to create harm reduction action plans, distribute overdose medication, help curb the spread of infectious diseases and “purchase equipment and supplies to enhance harm reduction efforts.” Safe smoking kits are listed as just one of the allowable purchases. The grants also provide funding for disease and drug testing kits, wound care supplies, condoms, syringes and vaccines. In a fact sheet about the program, the Department of Health and Human Services said it did not expect grant recipients to purchase all of the listed supplies. The grant guidelines do not specify what the smoking kits should include. According to Harm Reduction International, a London-based nongovernmental organization, such kits can contain rubber mouthpieces, brass screens, lip balm, disinfectant wipes and glass stems — the “crack pipes” in question. The contents can vary based on the organization distributing the kit as well as state and local laws on the distribution of drug paraphernalia. Moreover, the smoking kits are not specific to crack cocaine and can also be given to users of methamphetamine and opioids. How has the administration responded? Xavier Becerra, the secretary of health and human services, and Dr. Rahul Gupta, the director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, said in a joint statement on Wednesday that their agencies were “focused on using our resources smartly to reduce harm and save lives.” They added that “no federal funding will be used directly or through subsequent reimbursement of grantees to put pipes in safe smoking kits.” Jen Psaki, the White House press secretary, was more emphatic. She told reporters that pipes “were never a part of the kit” and dismissed the suggestion that they would be included as inaccurate reporting. She was most likely referring to an article published Monday by The Washington Free Beacon, a conservative news outlet; citing an unnamed spokesman for the Department of Health and Human Services, the article said the kits would provide pipes. The department did not respond when asked by The New York Times if glass pipes were ever allowable under the grant provisions. Why fund safe smoking kits in the first place? Advocates say the kits are an effective tool for outreach and health and safety education, and many expressed disappointment that the administration would not be providing funding for glass pipes. “Backtracking on providing critical evidence-based resources that could greatly improve the health of people who consume drugs through smoking is a huge missed opportunity,” Kassandra Frederique, the executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, said in a statement. HIPS, a harm reduction organization in Washington that applied for a grant under the administration’s program, distributed smoking kits in the 1990s and 2000s. Replacing broken and unsafe glass pipes had the effect of reducing the sharing of equipment and transmittable disease, said the group’s executive director, Cyndee Clay. “Being able to offer people clean, safe equipment for use, it’s a first step in helping change their behavior,” she said, adding that when HIPS stopped distributing the kits, “our engagement lessened because we didn’t have the right materials to start that conversation.” Clay said of the grant program, “It’s unfortunate that there is all this controversy over what is essentially a very small part of what this initiative will be able to accomplish.” Jim Duffy, the founder of Smoke Works, a harm reduction organization and pipe distributor in Boston, described the kits as an early intervention tool that could prevent people from injecting drugs and connect them to other resources. “It stands in place of something riskier,” Duffy said, adding that “it opens up to entirely new communities HIV testing, referral and health services.” Duffy, whose organization did not apply for a grant, said he was disappointed that the Biden administration was “baited into a conversation that doesn’t need to be validated.”

Explaining the claim that the Biden administration is funding ‘crack pipes’

US President Joe Biden's administration has waived sanctions on Iran's civilian nuclear programme.

The waiver allows other countries and companies to participate in Iran's civilian nuclear programme without triggering US sanctions on them, in the name of promoting safety and non-proliferation.

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It was rescinded by the United States in 2019 and 2020 under former President Donald Trump, who pulled out of the nuclear agreement.

The move is a technical step necessary to return to the 2015 nuclear agreement as per the US State Department.

“We did NOT provide sanctions relief for Iran and WILL NOT until/unless Tehran returns to its commitments under the JCPOA,” State Department spokesman Ned Price tweeted, using the acronym for the official name of the nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We did NOT provide sanctions relief for Iran and WILL NOT until/unless Tehran returns to its commitments under the JCPOA. We did precisely what the last Administration did: permit our international partners to address growing nuclear nonproliferation and safety risks in Iran.
— Ned Price (@StateDeptSpox) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDeptSpox/status/1489748587051425800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“We did precisely what the last administration did: permit our international partners to address growing nuclear nonproliferation and safety risks in Iran,” Price said.

In response, Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said "The lifting of some sanctions can, in the true sense of the word, translate into their good will. Americans talk about it, but it should be known that what happens on paper is good but not enough."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-talks-us-hopeful-of-building-on-negotiations-progress-this-week-442369">Also read |&nbsp;Iran nuclear talks: US hopeful of building on negotiations progress this week</a>

Amir-Abdollahian reiterated that one of the "main issues" in the talks is obtaining guarantees that the US will not withdraw from the 2015 deal again.

“We demand guarantees in the political, legal and economic spheres. Certain agreements have already been reached,” he added.

Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said in a post on Twitter: "Iran's legal right to continue research and development and maintain its peaceful nuclear capabilities and achievements, side by side with its security ... cannot be curbed by any agreement."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a>'s legal right to continue research and development and to maintain its peaceful nuclear capabilities and achievements, along with its security against supported evils, cannot be restricted by any agreement.
— علی شمخانی (@alishamkhani_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/alishamkhani_ir/status/1489854417704820739?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It comes as indirect American-Iranian talks on reviving the 2015 international nuclear deal with Tehran enter the final stretch. Both countries have held eight rounds of indirect talks in Vienna since April aimed at reinstating the pact.

There has been no formal announcement on when the ninth round would start, but expectations intensified that it could be next week.

After Trump pulled the United States out of the deal in 2018 and reimposed harsh sanctions, Iran gradually started violating the pact's nuclear curbs. Western diplomats now worry that its nuclear advancement leaves a very narrow window to return to the deal.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden's administration has waived sanctions on Iran's civilian nuclear programme. The waiver allows other countries and companies to participate in Iran's civilian nuclear programme without triggering US sanctions on them, in the name of promoting safety and non-proliferation.

US President Joe Biden's administration has waived sanctions on Iran's civilian nuclear programme. The waiver allows other countries and companies to participate in Iran's civilian nuclear programme without triggering US sanctions on them, in the name of promoting safety and non-proliferation. It was rescinded by the United States in 2019 and 2020 under former President Donald Trump, who pulled out of the nuclear agreement. The move is a technical step necessary to return to the 2015 nuclear agreement as per the US State Department. “We did NOT provide sanctions relief for Iran and WILL NOT until/unless Tehran returns to its commitments under the JCPOA,” State Department spokesman Ned Price tweeted, using the acronym for the official name of the nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. We did NOT provide sanctions relief for Iran and WILL NOT until/unless Tehran returns to its commitments under the JCPOA. We did precisely what the last Administration did: permit our international partners to address growing nuclear nonproliferation and safety risks in Iran. — Ned Price (@StateDeptSpox) February 4, 2022 × “We did precisely what the last administration did: permit our international partners to address growing nuclear nonproliferation and safety risks in Iran,” Price said. In response, Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said "The lifting of some sanctions can, in the true sense of the word, translate into their good will. Americans talk about it, but it should be known that what happens on paper is good but not enough." Also read | Iran nuclear talks: US hopeful of building on negotiations progress this week Amir-Abdollahian reiterated that one of the "main issues" in the talks is obtaining guarantees that the US will not withdraw from the 2015 deal again. “We demand guarantees in the political, legal and economic spheres. Certain agreements have already been reached,” he added. Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said in a post on Twitter: "Iran's legal right to continue research and development and maintain its peaceful nuclear capabilities and achievements, side by side with its security ... cannot be curbed by any agreement." #Iran's legal right to continue research and development and to maintain its peaceful nuclear capabilities and achievements, along with its security against supported evils, cannot be restricted by any agreement. — علی شمخانی (@alishamkhani_ir) February 5, 2022 × It comes as indirect American-Iranian talks on reviving the 2015 international nuclear deal with Tehran enter the final stretch. Both countries have held eight rounds of indirect talks in Vienna since April aimed at reinstating the pact. There has been no formal announcement on when the ninth round would start, but expectations intensified that it could be next week. After Trump pulled the United States out of the deal in 2018 and reimposed harsh sanctions, Iran gradually started violating the pact's nuclear curbs. Western diplomats now worry that its nuclear advancement leaves a very narrow window to return to the deal. (With inputs from agencies)

United States waives sanctions on Iran's civilian nuclear programme

The Biden administration&nbsp;on Wednesday (January 12) imposed first sanctions on North Koreans linked to ballistic missile programme after Pyongyang said it conducted the launch of a hypersonic missile.&nbsp;

The United States has imposed sanctions on North Korean and Russian individuals and entities for their support of or links to North Korea's ballistic missile programmes.&nbsp;

In total, six North Koreans, one Russian and a Russian firm have been slapped with sanctions as Washington said they were responsible for "illegally procuring goods for the programmes from Russia and China".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-claims-in-south-china-sea-gravely-undermines-rule-of-law-us-state-department-study-444266">China's claims in South China Sea gravely undermines rule of law: US State Department study</a>

While announcing the sanctions, Brian E Nelson, the Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence in a statement mentioned the illegal procurement of goods for weapons.&nbsp;

The statement read: "Today's actions, part of the United States' ongoing efforts to counter (North Korea's) weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs, target its continued use of overseas representatives to illegally procure goods for weapons."&nbsp;

Nelson said that the latest launches "are further evidence that it continues to advance prohibited programs despite the international community's calls for diplomacy and denuclearization."

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nanning-how-chinas-new-warship-with-anti-stealth-radar-is-set-to-change-balance-in-south-china-sea-392163">China's new warship is set to change balance in South China Sea</a>

In a released statement, the Treasury Department said that the United States remains committed to seeking "dialogue and diplomacy" with the DPRK.&nbsp;

However, it added that the US will also continue to address the threat posed by the DPRK's "unlawful weapons" programme&nbsp;to the US and the international community.&nbsp;

The Treasury Department said the sanctions follow the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's "six ballistic missile launches since September 2021, each of which violated multiple United Nations Security Council Resolutions."

As per the statement, one of the North Koreans being sanctioned, Choe Myong Hyon, was based in Russia and had provided support to North&nbsp;Korea's Second Academy of Natural Sciences (SANS).&nbsp;

The statement also added that the targeted were four China-based North Korean representatives of SANS-subordinate organisations: Sim Kwang Sok, Kim Song Hun, Kang Chol Hak and Pyon Kwang Chol.

North Korea's&nbsp;hypersonic missile test

Meanwhile, North Korean state media reported on Wednesday that the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, personally oversaw the successful test of the hypersonic missile, the second such launch by the nuclear-armed nation in less than a week.

State news agency KCNA said the most recent test demonstrated "the superior manoeuverability of the hypersonic glide vehicle." It claimed it hit a target some 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) away.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Biden administration on Wednesday (January 12) imposed first sanctions on North Koreans linked to ballistic missile programme after Pyongyang said it conducted the launch of a hypersonic missile.

The Biden administration on Wednesday (January 12) imposed first sanctions on North Koreans linked to ballistic missile programme after Pyongyang said it conducted the launch of a hypersonic missile. The United States has imposed sanctions on North Korean and Russian individuals and entities for their support of or links to North Korea's ballistic missile programmes. In total, six North Koreans, one Russian and a Russian firm have been slapped with sanctions as Washington said they were responsible for "illegally procuring goods for the programmes from Russia and China". ALSO READ | China's claims in South China Sea gravely undermines rule of law: US State Department study While announcing the sanctions, Brian E Nelson, the Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence in a statement mentioned the illegal procurement of goods for weapons. The statement read: "Today's actions, part of the United States' ongoing efforts to counter (North Korea's) weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs, target its continued use of overseas representatives to illegally procure goods for weapons." Nelson said that the latest launches "are further evidence that it continues to advance prohibited programs despite the international community's calls for diplomacy and denuclearization." IN PICS | China's new warship is set to change balance in South China Sea In a released statement, the Treasury Department said that the United States remains committed to seeking "dialogue and diplomacy" with the DPRK. However, it added that the US will also continue to address the threat posed by the DPRK's "unlawful weapons" programme to the US and the international community. The Treasury Department said the sanctions follow the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's "six ballistic missile launches since September 2021, each of which violated multiple United Nations Security Council Resolutions." As per the statement, one of the North Koreans being sanctioned, Choe Myong Hyon, was based in Russia and had provided support to North Korea's Second Academy of Natural Sciences (SANS). The statement also added that the targeted were four China-based North Korean representatives of SANS-subordinate organisations: Sim Kwang Sok, Kim Song Hun, Kang Chol Hak and Pyon Kwang Chol. North Korea's hypersonic missile test Meanwhile, North Korean state media reported on Wednesday that the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, personally oversaw the successful test of the hypersonic missile, the second such launch by the nuclear-armed nation in less than a week. State news agency KCNA said the most recent test demonstrated "the superior manoeuverability of the hypersonic glide vehicle." It claimed it hit a target some 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) away. × (With inputs from agencies)

Biden administration imposes first sanctions on North Koreans over missile tests

U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday pledged to ease a shortage of COVID-19 tests as the Omicron variant spreads across U.S. states this holiday week, threatening to overwhelm hospitals and stifle travel plans.

US President Joe Biden discusses White House response to Omicron

Joe Biden has been the US president for more than 300 days. In all these days he oversaw the botch-up in Afghanistan as American forces were pushed out by the Taliban.

13 US service members had died in the Kabul airport attack as the Taliban ended up with American weapons. Biden also failed to ease tensions with China and Russia.

Under him, America has failed to effectively challenge Beijing and with Moscow&nbsp;the confrontation is going from bad to worse. In fact, Russia is threatening to invade Ukraine. Iran has been another failure. Peace with Iran was Biden's big-ticket promise, however, he has failed to deliver.&nbsp;

The Iran nuclear deal has not been revived.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas - Biden rewards billionaire donors with ambassador postings

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In the domestic area, Biden's report card is bleak. The US president's biggest plan - the&nbsp;$1.75 trillion "build back better" plan has died in the US Congress as the Biden administration couldn't get the bill passed.

It now increasingly looks Joe Biden may become a one-term president since he has made the same serious mistakes.

The president has been caught rewarding his billionaire friends. The wealthy campaign donors who financed his presidential run.

They are now being made US ambassadors. In a way, the new men and women have been rewarded with diplomatic posts for funding the Biden election campaign.

The Democrats had earlier slammed Donald Trump for picking "loyalists" as ambassadors. However, a democratic president is now doing the same thing.

The first name is Constance Milstein who is a New York real estate titan. She gave $725,000 to the fundraising committee that ended up sponsoring Joe Biden's presidential campaign.

Constance Milstein is America's new ambassador to Malta. The next name on the list is Margaret Whitman. She is the former CEO of Hewlett Packard and eBay. Whitman had donated over $500,000 to the Biden campaign. She has now been rewarded as the US ambassador to Kenya.

George Tsunis is on the controversial list. Tsunis is an American hotel magnate. He is also a long time mega donor to the Democrats. He gave over $500,000 to Biden's campaign.

The US president has picked him to serve as the next ambassador to Greece. It is not the first time Tsunis has been rewarded for bankrolling a president.

He also donated to the Obama campaign and was chosen to be the US ambassador to Norway, however it proved to be a disastrous choice. US lawmakers held a hearing to assess him and Tsunis was exposed. He had never been to Norway.

When Tsunis appeared for his confirmation hearing he only embarrassed himself. He said Norway has a president which it doesn't - it has a king and a prime minister.

"There are a lot of markets that will continue to open up. uh ..." said Tsunis, trailing off amid a statement about US-Norwegian trade.

"Let me just ask, as ambassador, how you promote those trade cooperations?" interjected Senator Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican.

"Thank you for that save, Senator Johnson," Tsunis said.

Tsunis then described one of Norway's major political parties — a member of the current coalition government — as a "fringe element" that "spewed hatred." Arizona Republican John Mccain was unimpressed.

"The government has denounced them?" Mccain said. "They're part of the coalition of the government."

"You know what? I stand corrected," an embarrassed Tsunis responded.

Ultimately, Tsunis had to withdraw his nomination and the position of Norway's ambassador remained vacant for almost two years.

It was a major embarrassment for the Democrats. Now, another Democratic president in the White House has picked the same man.

Biden wants to make Tsunis an ambassador after everything that happened in 2014 and money seems to be the guiding force since Biden is already running late.

Almost a year into office, he still hasn't got his diplomatic corps in order. When he took office, he had to fill a total of 190 diplomatic posts. The Biden administration gave 80 new names, however, 65 diplomatic posts are still empty.

The reason is either Team Biden hasn't named a nominee for the post or the nominee hasn't been confirmed by the US Congress.

When Biden came to office he had an advantage since the Democrats controlled the US Congress, however, as of today, Biden has been unable to get his own nominations passed.

Joe Biden had promised change for the better, however, like most of the Washington elites he is offering more of the same.

Joe Biden has been the US president for more than 300 days. In all these days he oversaw the botch-up in Afghanistan as American forces were pushed out by the Taliban.

Joe Biden has been the US president for more than 300 days. In all these days he oversaw the botch-up in Afghanistan as American forces were pushed out by the Taliban. 13 US service members had died in the Kabul airport attack as the Taliban ended up with American weapons. Biden also failed to ease tensions with China and Russia. Under him, America has failed to effectively challenge Beijing and with Moscow the confrontation is going from bad to worse. In fact, Russia is threatening to invade Ukraine. Iran has been another failure. Peace with Iran was Biden's big-ticket promise, however, he has failed to deliver. The Iran nuclear deal has not been revived. Watch | Gravitas - Biden rewards billionaire donors with ambassador postings In the domestic area, Biden's report card is bleak. The US president's biggest plan - the $1.75 trillion "build back better" plan has died in the US Congress as the Biden administration couldn't get the bill passed. It now increasingly looks Joe Biden may become a one-term president since he has made the same serious mistakes. The president has been caught rewarding his billionaire friends. The wealthy campaign donors who financed his presidential run. They are now being made US ambassadors. In a way, the new men and women have been rewarded with diplomatic posts for funding the Biden election campaign. The Democrats had earlier slammed Donald Trump for picking "loyalists" as ambassadors. However, a democratic president is now doing the same thing. The first name is Constance Milstein who is a New York real estate titan. She gave $725,000 to the fundraising committee that ended up sponsoring Joe Biden's presidential campaign. Constance Milstein is America's new ambassador to Malta. The next name on the list is Margaret Whitman. She is the former CEO of Hewlett Packard and eBay. Whitman had donated over $500,000 to the Biden campaign. She has now been rewarded as the US ambassador to Kenya. George Tsunis is on the controversial list. Tsunis is an American hotel magnate. He is also a long time mega donor to the Democrats. He gave over $500,000 to Biden's campaign. The US president has picked him to serve as the next ambassador to Greece. It is not the first time Tsunis has been rewarded for bankrolling a president. He also donated to the Obama campaign and was chosen to be the US ambassador to Norway, however it proved to be a disastrous choice. US lawmakers held a hearing to assess him and Tsunis was exposed. He had never been to Norway. When Tsunis appeared for his confirmation hearing he only embarrassed himself. He said Norway has a president which it doesn't - it has a king and a prime minister. "There are a lot of markets that will continue to open up. uh ..." said Tsunis, trailing off amid a statement about US-Norwegian trade. "Let me just ask, as ambassador, how you promote those trade cooperations?" interjected Senator Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican. "Thank you for that save, Senator Johnson," Tsunis said. Tsunis then described one of Norway's major political parties — a member of the current coalition government — as a "fringe element" that "spewed hatred." Arizona Republican John Mccain was unimpressed. "The government has denounced them?" Mccain said. "They're part of the coalition of the government." "You know what? I stand corrected," an embarrassed Tsunis responded. Ultimately, Tsunis had to withdraw his nomination and the position of Norway's ambassador remained vacant for almost two years. It was a major embarrassment for the Democrats. Now, another Democratic president in the White House has picked the same man. Biden wants to make Tsunis an ambassador after everything that happened in 2014 and money seems to be the guiding force since Biden is already running late. Almost a year into office, he still hasn't got his diplomatic corps in order. When he took office, he had to fill a total of 190 diplomatic posts. The Biden administration gave 80 new names, however, 65 diplomatic posts are still empty. The reason is either Team Biden hasn't named a nominee for the post or the nominee hasn't been confirmed by the US Congress. When Biden came to office he had an advantage since the Democrats controlled the US Congress, however, as of today, Biden has been unable to get his own nominations passed. Joe Biden had promised change for the better, however, like most of the Washington elites he is offering more of the same.

Biden's agenda: Picking wealthy donors as envoys

The majority of children born in the developed world now have a good chance of making it to their 100th birthday. They are also on track to live, learn, work and retire in systems and institutions that were set up when their grandparents were children.

Career and education in the United States (and in much of the developed world) evolved to meet the needs of a different era than the one we currently live in — one in which the (mostly white and male) people who received postsecondary education completed it all in their 20s; in which people retired from work by age 65 and often died just a decade or so later; and in which half the population (the female one, of course) was expected to remain available full time for family caregiving needs.

But as improvements in infant mortality and health care added decades of life expectancy at birth — and, for the most well-off, many additional years of health in older age — lives in the developed world evolved faster than the institutions designed to support them, said Laura Carstensen, a psychology professor at Stanford University and the founding director of the Stanford Center on Longevity.

As a result, we’re spending these longer lives stressed out by the pressures of conforming to systems that don’t really fit — not in the later stage of life, or the decades that come before it.

“Humans are social creatures. We are very sensitive to culture, and the culture that we’re living in today is one that evolved around lives half as long,” she said. “It just doesn’t work. We need new sets of social scripts and norms that will accommodate much longer lives.”

Carstensen and her colleagues at the Center on Longevity are proposing a potential route out of this mess. This month, the center published a report titled “The New Map of Life” — a blueprint for what education, careers, cities and life transitions could look like if they were designed for lives that span a century (or more).

One of the report’s central theses is that modern life has a pacing problem. Middle age is uncomfortably crammed with career and caregiving responsibilities, while many older people find themselves with neither enough purpose, connection or income to live comfortably.

As of 2016, nearly half of households headed by a person 55 or older in the United States had no retirement savings, according to an estimate by the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

To even out the pace, “The New Map of Life” recommends that education be a lifelong project rather than a sprint crammed into childhood and early adulthood, and that careers be spread out so that people work for more years, but with fewer workdays in the week and fewer hours in the day.

The report also suggests more investment in early childhood, which it says would ultimately improve outcomes in every stage of life, and for normalizing and supporting transitions in and out of the workforce as people have children, care for vulnerable family members or endure illness.

“We need to stretch out life,” Carstensen said. “This is an enormous opportunity to improve quality of life at all ages.”

It took three years for the Stanford researchers to create the report. Changing ossified institutions and entrenched cultural expectations would take much longer.

“I think it’s water dripping on a stone,” said Andrew Scott, a consulting scholar at Stanford’s Center on Longevity.

There’s cultural precedence for reimagining the life span, Scott pointed out: the modern concept of both the teenage years and retirement as distinct phases of life emerged only in the last century.

But polarization and political sclerosis have made policy change a lot more difficult than it was in the middle of the 20th century. The pandemic highlighted the increasing desperation many families face as they navigate work and caregiving, while deepening the political divides that prevent meaningful action.

The social spending bill proposed by the Biden administration initially contained a number of policies that directly addressed many of the issues mentioned in the report, including two years of free community college, 12 weeks of paid family leave and a permanent extension of the child credit. All have been dropped or drastically scaled back.

For now, the kind of life course outlined in “The New Map of Life” — one in which people have access to multiple education and career opportunities, and reach old age with decent health and economic stability — is by no means a universal experience. Virtually every factor that contributes to longer, healthier lives — quality health care, sufficient nutrition, access to exercise and safe living conditions — is easier to obtain the wealthier you are.

And a 2015 study from the National Academies of Sciences found that nearly all life expectancy gains from people born in 1930 and 1960 went to people in the top 60% of the income distribution.

“Longer lives exacerbate inequality,” said Ilana Horwitz, a sociologist and assistant professor of Jewish Studies at Tulane University who was one of nine postdoctoral fellows at the Center on Longevity assigned to the project.

The report outlines how we might make aging, which is really just another word for living, a healthier and more equitable experience for all. The tricky part is convincing lawmakers, employers, educational institutions and the public to consider alternatives to some of our culture’s most deeply ingrained patterns.

The center is working now on appointing new research fellows who will study how to make these suggestions reality. A map becomes a lot more useful once you actually get moving.

“Life will change,” Carstensen said. “The hard thing is knowing what the first step should be. In many ways, we’re at the hardest part.” 
&nbsp;

The majority of children born in the developed world now have a good chance of making it to their 100th birthday. They are also on track to live, learn, work and retire in systems and institutions that were set up when their grandparents were children.

The majority of children born in the developed world now have a good chance of making it to their 100th birthday. They are also on track to live, learn, work and retire in systems and institutions that were set up when their grandparents were children. Career and education in the United States (and in much of the developed world) evolved to meet the needs of a different era than the one we currently live in — one in which the (mostly white and male) people who received postsecondary education completed it all in their 20s; in which people retired from work by age 65 and often died just a decade or so later; and in which half the population (the female one, of course) was expected to remain available full time for family caregiving needs. But as improvements in infant mortality and health care added decades of life expectancy at birth — and, for the most well-off, many additional years of health in older age — lives in the developed world evolved faster than the institutions designed to support them, said Laura Carstensen, a psychology professor at Stanford University and the founding director of the Stanford Center on Longevity. As a result, we’re spending these longer lives stressed out by the pressures of conforming to systems that don’t really fit — not in the later stage of life, or the decades that come before it. “Humans are social creatures. We are very sensitive to culture, and the culture that we’re living in today is one that evolved around lives half as long,” she said. “It just doesn’t work. We need new sets of social scripts and norms that will accommodate much longer lives.” Carstensen and her colleagues at the Center on Longevity are proposing a potential route out of this mess. This month, the center published a report titled “The New Map of Life” — a blueprint for what education, careers, cities and life transitions could look like if they were designed for lives that span a century (or more). One of the report’s central theses is that modern life has a pacing problem. Middle age is uncomfortably crammed with career and caregiving responsibilities, while many older people find themselves with neither enough purpose, connection or income to live comfortably. As of 2016, nearly half of households headed by a person 55 or older in the United States had no retirement savings, according to an estimate by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. To even out the pace, “The New Map of Life” recommends that education be a lifelong project rather than a sprint crammed into childhood and early adulthood, and that careers be spread out so that people work for more years, but with fewer workdays in the week and fewer hours in the day. The report also suggests more investment in early childhood, which it says would ultimately improve outcomes in every stage of life, and for normalizing and supporting transitions in and out of the workforce as people have children, care for vulnerable family members or endure illness. “We need to stretch out life,” Carstensen said. “This is an enormous opportunity to improve quality of life at all ages.” It took three years for the Stanford researchers to create the report. Changing ossified institutions and entrenched cultural expectations would take much longer. “I think it’s water dripping on a stone,” said Andrew Scott, a consulting scholar at Stanford’s Center on Longevity. There’s cultural precedence for reimagining the life span, Scott pointed out: the modern concept of both the teenage years and retirement as distinct phases of life emerged only in the last century. But polarization and political sclerosis have made policy change a lot more difficult than it was in the middle of the 20th century. The pandemic highlighted the increasing desperation many families face as they navigate work and caregiving, while deepening the political divides that prevent meaningful action. The social spending bill proposed by the Biden administration initially contained a number of policies that directly addressed many of the issues mentioned in the report, including two years of free community college, 12 weeks of paid family leave and a permanent extension of the child credit. All have been dropped or drastically scaled back. For now, the kind of life course outlined in “The New Map of Life” — one in which people have access to multiple education and career opportunities, and reach old age with decent health and economic stability — is by no means a universal experience. Virtually every factor that contributes to longer, healthier lives — quality health care, sufficient nutrition, access to exercise and safe living conditions — is easier to obtain the wealthier you are. And a 2015 study from the National Academies of Sciences found that nearly all life expectancy gains from people born in 1930 and 1960 went to people in the top 60% of the income distribution. “Longer lives exacerbate inequality,” said Ilana Horwitz, a sociologist and assistant professor of Jewish Studies at Tulane University who was one of nine postdoctoral fellows at the Center on Longevity assigned to the project. The report outlines how we might make aging, which is really just another word for living, a healthier and more equitable experience for all. The tricky part is convincing lawmakers, employers, educational institutions and the public to consider alternatives to some of our culture’s most deeply ingrained patterns. The center is working now on appointing new research fellows who will study how to make these suggestions reality. A map becomes a lot more useful once you actually get moving. “Life will change,” Carstensen said. “The hard thing is knowing what the first step should be. In many ways, we’re at the hardest part.”

As we live longer, how should life change? There is a blueprint.

Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration.

"I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme. “But I am also absolutely, absolutely clear-eyed that there is a lot more to do and we're going to get it done.”

When asked whether she feels “misused or underused”, Harris retorted, “No, I don’t”.

The response from Harris comes in the backdrop of a CNN report which claimed dysfunction between her team and the president’s office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underwater-polls-suggest-kamala-harris-least-popular-vice-president-since-1970s-402209">'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s</a>

The report, citing unnamed sources from the administration, claimed that Harris feels sidelined in the administration and that she is feeling “constrained in what she's able to do politically.”

The report further claims that Harris “is struggling with a rocky relationship with some parts of the White House, while long-time supporters feel abandoned and see no coherent public sense of what she's done or been trying to do as vice president.”

The White House has also denied any tensions in the office.

“The president selected the vice president to serve as his running mate because he felt she was exactly the person you wanted to have by his side to govern the country," press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters.

"She is a key partner. She's a bold leader. And she is somebody who has taken on incredibly important assignments.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/twitter-cant-keep-calm-as-it-discovers-kamala-harris-is-a-part-of-bts-army-358228">Twitter can't keep calm as it discovers Kamala Harris is a part of BTS ARMY</a>

Meanwhile, Kamala Harris’ communications director Ashley Etienne has resigned from the office, a White House official told CNN.

‘Ashley is a valued member of the vice president’s team, who has worked tirelessly to advance the goals of this administration,’ the official said on Thursday. ‘She is leaving the office in December to pursue other opportunities.’

It is being said that Etienne’s exit was due as she ‘was not a good fit’ for the vice president’s office and did not actively shape the communications strategy for&nbsp;Harris.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration. "I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme.

Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration. "I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme. “But I am also absolutely, absolutely clear-eyed that there is a lot more to do and we're going to get it done.” When asked whether she feels “misused or underused”, Harris retorted, “No, I don’t”. The response from Harris comes in the backdrop of a CNN report which claimed dysfunction between her team and the president’s office. Also read | 'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s The report, citing unnamed sources from the administration, claimed that Harris feels sidelined in the administration and that she is feeling “constrained in what she's able to do politically.” The report further claims that Harris “is struggling with a rocky relationship with some parts of the White House, while long-time supporters feel abandoned and see no coherent public sense of what she's done or been trying to do as vice president.” The White House has also denied any tensions in the office. “The president selected the vice president to serve as his running mate because he felt she was exactly the person you wanted to have by his side to govern the country," press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters. "She is a key partner. She's a bold leader. And she is somebody who has taken on incredibly important assignments.” Also read | Twitter can't keep calm as it discovers Kamala Harris is a part of BTS ARMY Meanwhile, Kamala Harris’ communications director Ashley Etienne has resigned from the office, a White House official told CNN. ‘Ashley is a valued member of the vice president’s team, who has worked tirelessly to advance the goals of this administration,’ the official said on Thursday. ‘She is leaving the office in December to pursue other opportunities.’ It is being said that Etienne’s exit was due as she ‘was not a good fit’ for the vice president’s office and did not actively shape the communications strategy for Harris. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration, says ‘excited about the work’

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