Author: Ellie Bai

As President Donald Trump begins his second term, the 2024 election cycle has left a lasting impression on the nation. Marked by controversy, violence and widespread mistrust, the cycle revealed deep vulnerabilities in the U.S. democratic system. Among the most alarming events was the attempted assassination of Trump in Pennsylvania in July 2024. While he survived the attack, it underscored the urgent need to address security concerns surrounding elections — a problem that has been escalating for years — and this rise in political violence is not an isolated phenomenon, but part of a troubling trend. The January 6, 2021 Capitol…

Big Picture  Americans have been burdened with high prescription drug costs for ages now, a critical issue closely tied to health outcomes. The United States is the global leader in per capita pharmaceutical spending, with 2021 data showing that the average American is spending $1,432 on prescription medicines and self-medication. The consequences of these exorbitant prices are both alarming and tragic. Many patients are compelled to skip doses or halve their medication due to financial constraints, which significantly undermines their health and hinders their recovery. The factors driving these high costs are complex. They include pharmaceutical brand influence and substantial marketing expenditures. Current…