Policy & Law

Southwest Assigned Seating Leaves Passengers in Middle Seats Despite Empty Rows

The airline cites weight balance requirements for restricting passenger movement, a practice long used by other carriers.

By James Callahan · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Federal Strategy Aims to Expand Home Visiting Programs for New Mothers Amid Workforce Challenges

The HRSA roadmap seeks to address a workforce shortage in a field where most workers earn $30,000-$40,000 annually while serving families during postpartum period.

By Eleanor Cross · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

The Ballot Box Showdowns This Month That You Need to Watch

A dozen states hold primaries or runoffs in May, testing Trump's endorsement power and determining the contours of November's midterm battles.

By Marcus Webb · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Why Airlines Restrict Seat Selection Even When Rows Are Empty

FAA safety regulations require airlines to carefully manage aircraft weight distribution, which means passengers may be assigned specific seats for takeoff balance.

By Marcus Webb · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Seven Major AI Companies Agree to Deploy Technology in Classified Pentagon Networks

The deals leave Anthropic increasingly isolated as it contests the Defense Department's designation of the company as a national security risk.

By James Callahan · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Two US Service Members Reported Missing During Military Exercises in Morocco

Search and rescue operations underway involving US, Moroccan, and allied forces following disappearance during African Lion 2026 exercises near Tan Tan.

By Diane Park · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 3 min read
Policy & Law

Jacksonville Police Release Body Camera Footage of Crisis Incident on Dames Point Bridge

The April 12 incident, which lasted approximately 40 minutes before officers successfully talked a man away from the ledge, has drawn attention to faith-based approaches in crisis intervention.

By Marcus Webb · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

What Is Dynamic Pricing and Could It Impact Your Grocery Bill?

Maryland is set to become the first state to ban the practice at grocery stores, while legislators in 24 states have introduced more than 40 bills targeting algorithmic pricing.

By James Callahan · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

What's Worse Than a 'Do-Nothing' Congress? This One

The 119th Congress has passed just 38 bills in its first year—the lowest number in decades—while Trump has issued 256 executive orders, raising questions about the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches.

By Eleanor Cross · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 4 min read
Policy & Law

Spirit Airlines Shutdown: Your Rights and What to Do if Flights Canceled

The budget carrier's bankruptcy leaves tens of thousands of travelers scrambling as DOT rules require airlines to issue refunds for canceled service.

By James Callahan · Sunday, May 3, 2026 · 4 min read