All USA
- DIY border fix? Texas tests limits on immigration policy.
Amid concerns about record encounters with migrants at the southern U.S. border, one of the most affected states is trying to take action on its own. But is that legal?
- Cover StoryWhat is home? Glimpses of refuge from 19 Monitor writers.
This collection of vignettes about home is a tribute to love, comfort, and belonging. We hope these stories kindle the warmth of home in your heart.
- First LookHistoric Black towns are facing extinction. But they’re fighting back.
A century ago, 1,200 historic Black communities, founded by formerly enslaved people, existed in the U.S. How are the 30 that remain preserving their legacy amid gentrification?
- Monumental shift or mixed bag? Pope allows same-sex blessings.
During his 10 years as head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis has placed an emphasis on charity over doctrine. This week’s ruling on blessings, experts say, shows efforts to extend a larger welcome.
- Colorado stunner: Ballot ruling against Trump could aid him
A Colorado court ruling barring Donald Trump from the state ballot because of “insurrection” is reverberating nationwide. It raises unprecedented legal questions – and also comes as a political gift to the former president.
- First LookSigns of respect: Native American language added along roads across US
States from Minnesota to Maine are adding Native American language translations to road signs and building facades. The push is part of an effort to revitalize Native languages and help make Native American residents feel more seen and welcomed.
- First LookIn Texas, local police will act as immigration enforcers. Is it legal?
A new Texas law allows local police to arrest undocumented migrants and gives local judges authority to order them to leave the country – testing the limits of immigration enforcement, a federal responsibility.
- First LookHow Saudis changed the game of international sports in 2023
One year ago, the idea of Saudi-owned sports in the international market raised questions of “sportwashing” and ethical dilemmas. Since then, the conversation has evolved into just how much Saudis will invest in athletes, especially in the world of golf.
- Pricey holiday sweets? Why sugar outpaces grocery inflation.
Finally, food inflation is starting to slow. But sugar prices are still rising at a high rate. Now the push is on to reform the federal government program that subsidizes sugar farmers.
- Monitor BreakfastA lively breakfast with Cornel West, presidential candidate
Dr. West, a prominent intellectual, progressive activist, and now candidate for president, denied his campaign could hurt President Biden and addressed antisemitism on U.S. campuses.
- ‘My second home.’ Teaching music helps asylum-seeker hit a rhythm.
A Venezuelan conductor and asylum-seeker finds purpose through teaching at a music school in Denver.
- First LookIs self-checkout efficient or unnecessary? It depends who you ask.
During the busiest shopping season of the year, self-checkout might be having a reckoning. While the promise of self-checkout means customers can avoid long lines, retailers are grappling with theft and some customers’ frustration with technology.
- First LookFlood flight: How climate change is pushing millions in US to move
The threat of climate change and flood risk is forcing millions of Americans to relocate. In a new report, however, researchers are finding this doesn’t mean moving to a new state, people are simply looking for somewhere close by on higher ground.
- First LookJury awards huge damages to Georgia election workers over Giuliani lies
A jury has awarded $148 million in damages to two former Georgia election workers who sued Rudy Giuliani for defamation over lies he spread about them in 2020.
- Photography as an act of trust
- ‘Small stories’ add up to big impact
- First LookAir Force upgrade: gigantic Sentinel missile to replace Cold War tech
The United States Air Force is overhauling its nuclear missiles with the most major upgrade since the Cold War era. But the 21st-century technology brings 21st-century challenges, including how to protect the missiles from cybersecurity attacks.
- The ExplainerHouse GOP backs impeachment ‘inquiry.’ What does that mean?
GOP leaders say the vote was needed to counter White House stonewalling of requests for information. But even some Republicans say there’s no evidence so far of presidential wrongdoing.
- Monitor BreakfastWhy Cornel West runs in 2024: Alternative to ‘fascism’ and ‘neoliberalism’
Presidential candidate and public intellectual Cornel West sits down with reporters at a Monitor Breakfast to talk about his candidacy and the future of America.
- Supreme Court pushed abortion to states. A year later, it’s back.
The Supreme Court overturned women’s constitutional right to an abortion and said it was up to the states to decide legality. A year later, the issue is headed back to the high court.