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This Fish Could Change The World

It is amazing what people can do – one person created a planet changing fish.

This fish could change the world, move over Nemo — there’s a new ocean darling making waves under the sea, and he’s not getting lost. Meet Gilbert, the robot fish cleaning our oceans one plastic bottle at a time. But unlike Pixar’s famously forgetful clownfish, Gilbert has a sharp mission — and a smart creator behind him.

Gilbert was dreamt up by Eleanor Mackintosh, a chemistry undergraduate at the University of Surrey in the UK. Inspired by the way real fish breathe through their gills, Eleanor submitted the concept for a 3D-printed robotic fish to the Natural Robotics Contest in 2022. Her design? A salmon-sized robot that swims, sucks in water, and traps microplastics using mesh-filled “gills.”

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Judges loved the idea, and a team of engineers at Surrey, led by Dr. Robert Siddall, brought Gilbert to life. The result is a solar-powered, biodegradable robot that mimics the graceful movement of a fish while quietly hoovering up pollution. Eleanor’s innovation turned into a working prototype — and a potential game-changer for environmental tech.

This Fish Could Change The Worldtrash

Gilbert’s mission couldn’t be more relevant. With over 8 million tons of plastic entering the ocean every year, microplastic pollution has become a crisis. Millennials and Gen Z — generations passionate about sustainability — have embraced Gilbert as both a symbol and a solution.

“Gilbert may be artificial intelligence,” Eleanor has said, “but his mission is deeply human: clean water, healthy oceans, and a livable planet.”

The robot can collect up to 4.5 kilograms of plastic per journey and sends pollution data back to researchers via satellite. Pilot programs are already underway in Southeast Asia — a hotspot for plastic waste.

But it’s not all work and no play. Gilbert has become a minor celeb on TikTok and Instagram, where he glides through murky water to the soundtrack of pop music and captions like “Fish are friends, not plastic bins.” His gentle presence and clever design are capturing hearts — and raising awareness.

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Want to build your own Gilbert? The entire design is open-source and downloadable for free. Visit the official repository HERE.

Eleanor’s story shows how one imaginative student can spark global action. Gilbert isn’t just a fish; he’s a finned ambassador of innovation, youth-led change, and oceanic hope.

And let’s face it — while Finding Nemo tugged at our heartstrings, Finding Trash might just save the planet.

Does Keanu Reeves Consume Cannabis

Know as an all around great guy – does he chill with a little marijuana?

Keanu Reeves, the famously humble Hollywood star known for his kindness and low-profile lifestyle, has long captured the public’s admiration—not only for his roles in blockbusters like The Matrix, John Wick, and Speed, but also for his reputation as one of the nicest guys in show business. But does Keanu Reeves consume cannabis. While he’s not one to court controversy, questions about his stance have naturally surfaced in an era when marijuana legalization is sweeping across the globe.

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Born in Beirut and raised in Toronto, Reeves began his acting career in the 1980s with early roles in films like River’s Edge and Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. By the late 1990s, he had become a household name thanks to the groundbreaking Matrix trilogy. Despite his superstardom, Reeves has remained grounded, often seen taking public transportation, giving generously to charity, and treating cast and crew on film sets with genuine warmth.

This modest, respectful demeanor has led many to wonder about his views on topics like cannabis, which sits at the intersection of culture, health, and personal choice. While Reeves has rarely spoken directly about marijuana in recent years, he has never adopted a judgmental tone about its use. In the 1990s, he was candid about having tried marijuana, but emphasized he was never a heavy user.

In past interviews, Reeves has suggested a nuanced perspective—neither an advocate nor a critic. He has shown sympathy for marijuana’s medicinal use and the need for a fair and rational approach to cannabis policy. His long-time bandmate in the grunge group Dogstar, Bret Domrose, once hinted that Keanu supports personal freedoms, including the right to use cannabis responsibly. However, unlike some of his Hollywood peers, Reeves has not attached his name to any cannabis brands or outspoken legalization campaigns.

That low-key approach mirrors his general public image: calm, measured, and deeply respectful of others’ choices. He’s a man who lets actions speak louder than words—whether that’s giving up his seat on the subway or helping carry equipment on set.

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As marijuana becomes more normalized across North America and beyond, many look to celebrities like Keanu Reeves for cues. While he may not be waving a cannabis flag, his quiet tolerance and thoughtful distance suggest an openness to a world where cannabis is accepted and its users are not stigmatized.

In the end, Keanu Reeves continues to be a model of humility and open-mindedness—a star whose thoughts on cannabis reflect his broader values: compassion, privacy, and respect.

GOP Senator Rides To The Rescue Of Hemp

Politics makes strange bedfellows and add in cannabis and you got some interesting news

In a dramatic turn this week, a GOP Senator rides to the rescue of hemp.  While as a party they haven’t lined up support cannabis and hemp, GOP Senator Rand Paul (R‑KY) successfully blocked a proposed federal ban on hemp-derived THC products had been inserted into a critical spending bill on agriculture and related funding. The provision sought to redefine hemp by capping total THC—including delta‑8, delta‑10, and THCA—rather than just delta‑9 THC, effectively outlawing most edible hemp products

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Paul argued the language would “destroy hemp farmers in my state” and devastate an emerging national industry, threatening thousands of jobs and billions in revenue. Kentucky, once a leading tobacco-growing state, has become a national leader in hemp production—generating tens of millions annually in cultivation, processing, and manufacturing jobs. His intervention represents a major victory for hemp advocates.

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Senator Rand Paul

The hemp-derived THC market in the U.S.—centered on delta‑8, delta‑10, and similar compounds—jumped nearly 1,283% from 2020 to 2023, rising from $200.5 million to approximately $2.8 billion. Meanwhile, the broader U.S. legal cannabis (marijuana) industry reached roughly $38.5 billion in 2024, expected to climb to over $44 billion in 2025.

Globally, the industrial hemp market—including fiber, seeds, food and wellness applications—is estimated at $6.6 billion in 2024, and projected to hit $25–26 billion by 2034. North America is a hub for both cannabis and hemp, with legal cannabis valued at $26.6 billion in 2024 and forecast to grow over 10‑fold to $285 billion by 2034.

Industry stakeholders emphasize hemp’s unique position: it’s federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, so long as delta‑9 THC remains under 0.3%. Federal safety net distinguishes hemp‑THC products from marijuana, which remains federally illicit despite many states permitting recreational or medical use.  Hemp has become increasingly popular, in Texas, Bayou City Hemp Company, the parent of Bayou Beverage, has taken hemp‑derived THC drinks mainstream.

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Senator Paul’s move reflects the intersection of politics, agriculture, and emerging consumer markets. As lawmakers weigh the future of hemp‑THC regulation, the broader cannabis industry—and its relationship with alcohol and public policy—continues its rapid evolution.

Some Jokes To Bring A Monday Smile

To get your vibe right for Monday – what about some laughter?

Mondays have a reputation—and not a great one. After a weekend of relaxation, the first day of the workweek often feels like a cold splash of reality. Many people find Mondays tough, groggy, and relentless. But laughter, science shows, can turn even the most sluggish Monday into a bright one. It boosts mood, reduces stress, and even improves productivity. So what better way to start your week than with a healthy dose of humor? Here are some jokes to bring a Monday smile.

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Why did Monday apply for a job?
Because Sunday wasn’t working out.

Monday: The day all coffee dreams come true.

If each day is a gift, I’d like to return Monday.

I swear my bed and I had a moment this morning… and then Monday came between us.

Mondays are proof that weekends are way too short.

The Alarm Clock Conspiracy
This morning, I hit snooze so many times, my alarm clock started questioning our relationship.
“Are you even listening to me anymore?” it beeped.
“I just need five more minutes,” I pleaded.
“You’ve said that six times!”
I’m convinced Monday and my alarm clock are in cahoots.

The Monday Meeting
At 9:00 AM sharp, my boss cheerfully said, “Let’s kick off the week with a quick Monday meeting.”
An intern whispered, “Does he not know what day it is?”
We all sat around the table pretending to care, nodding in unison like caffeine-deprived bobbleheads.
At one point, someone asked, “Can this wait until Tuesday?”
“Why?”
“Because we’d care more tomorrow.”

The Gym Plan
I told myself I’d start going to the gym on Monday. That was six Mondays ago.
Now I just walk past the gym and wave like an old friend I owe money to.

The Coffee Dilemma
On Mondays, my coffee needs coffee.
I ordered a double espresso, and the barista asked, “Tough morning?”
“No,” I said. “Tough decade. Monday just reminded me.”

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The Motivation Meter
My phone gave me a motivational quote this morning:
“Rise and shine! You’re unstoppable!”
Clearly, my phone doesn’t know about Mondays.
Ten minutes later, it autocorrected “meeting” to “mourning.”
Even autocorrect knows what’s up.

Mondays are like math. I know they’re necessary, but I still don’t like them.

Monday is the day my coffee needs a coffee.

I survived Monday. Barely. Send snacks.

Whether you’re crawling out of bed or already knee-deep in emails, remember: Monday is a mindset. With a little humor and a lot of coffee, even the harshest start to the week can feel a little lighter. So next time you wake up dreading the alarm, crack a joke, share a laugh, and remind yourself—Monday may be tough, but you’re tougher… and funnier.

South Park Loves Marijuana

The kids are foul mouth, opinionated, and always on point…and they love a little green plant

Since its debut in 1997, South Park has never shied away from taboo topics, and marijuana has been one of its most enduring themes. From early jokes about stoners to full-blown cannabis entrepreneurship, the evolution of weed in South Park mirrors shifting cultural attitudes—and reflects the creators’ own evolving stance.

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The show’s co-creators, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, are no strangers to controversy. But when it comes to cannabis, they’ve played both sides of the joint: poking fun at stoner culture while also embracing marijuana legalization as a symbol of personal freedom.

In the early seasons, cannabis was mostly a background gag. Randy Marsh, Stan’s dad, occasionally referenced drug use, but weed wasn’t a focal point. That changed dramatically in Season 23 with the introduction of Tegridy Farms—a fictional marijuana business Randy starts to recapture his lost sense of integrity (“tegridy”).

The Tegridy Farms storyline, which spans multiple seasons, is satire at its best: equal parts critique of corporate cannabis, commentary on the commodification of wellness, and a portrait of midlife crisis. As Randy evolves into a weed mogul, South Park explores everything from THC-infused products to international cannabis trade.

For Parker and Stone, Tegridy Farms is more than a plot device—it’s a reflection of how far cannabis has come in mainstream America. In interviews, both creators have acknowledged they support legalization and view the war on drugs as a failure. “We always thought it was ridiculous,” Stone said in a 2020 interview. “People getting locked up for something safer than alcohol? It never made sense.”

The irony, of course, is that South Park itself has grown up with its audience. Millennials who watched the show in middle school are now adults—many with mortgages, careers, and legal weed in their states. The cannabis storylines, once rebellious, now resonate as social satire for a generation navigating late-stage capitalism and ever-shifting norms.

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South Park’s weed content also plays well with search engines. From “Tegridy Farms” memes to fan theories about Randy’s descent into madness, marijuana-themed episodes drive traffic and engagement. It’s smart business—and smart commentary.

Whether it’s lampooning hemp marketing or making fun of anti-pot hysteria, South Park keeps it blunt: weed is part of the culture now. And if there’s one thing Parker and Stone have always understood, it’s how to make culture laugh at itself.

The Best Delicious Summer Cocktails

It is hot and you need something to cool you off and chill you out – here are some cocktail suggestions.

As temperatures soar, nothing says summer quite like a cold, refreshing cocktail. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just unwinding after a long day, these summer drinks deliver big flavor with a splash of history. From citrusy classics to modern twists, here are the best delicious summer cocktails — each featuring a different spirit — to keep your summer cool and spirited.

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man in blue crew neck t-shirt holding clear drinking glass with orange liquid

Gin Basil Smash

Invented in Germany in 2008, the Gin Basil Smash combines herbaceous gin with bright basil for a zesty, green twist on a sour. It’s aromatic, bold, and strikingly refreshing.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz gin
  • 0.75 oz lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • Fresh basil leaves

Create

  1. Muddle basil with lemon and syrup
  2. Add gin, shake with ice
  3. Double strain into a rocks glass
  4. Garnish with a basil sprig

Tequila Paloma

Often overshadowed by the Margarita, the Paloma is arguably Mexico’s most beloved cocktail. With grapefruit’s tangy bite and tequila’s earthy warmth, it’s a sparkling summer classic.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz tequila blanco
  • 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • 0.5 oz lime juice
  • 0.25 oz agave syrup (optional)
  • Slash of club soda

Create

  1. Mix all in a glass over ice
  2. Stir gently
  3. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge

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Bourbon Peach Smash

A Southern-inspired twist on the Whiskey Smash, this peachy version adds sweetness and charm to bold bourbon. It’s fruity, smooth, and perfect for sunset sipping.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • 2 slices fresh peach
  • Mint leaves

Create

  1. Muddle peach and mint with syrup
  2. Add bourbon and lemon
  3. Shake with ice then strain into a rocks glass
  4. Garnish with mint

Frozen Watermelon Mojito

Inspired by the Cuban Mojito, this frozen remix blends rum and watermelon for a cool, slushy delight. It’s minty, sweet, and made for hot days.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz white rum
  • 1 cup frozen watermelon
  • 0.5 oz lime juice
  • Mint leaves
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup

Create

  1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
  2. Pour into a chilled glass
  3. Garnish with mint or watermelon

 

Marijuana and the WWE

Hulk Hogan was one of the star at it’s peak, so we wonder about marijuana and WWE

Cannabis has long been a popular—if unofficial—part of professional wrestling culture, and WWE is no exception. For decades, many of the industry’s biggest stars have used marijuana to relax, recover, and cope with the physical and mental toll of the job. By some backstage estimates, up to 90% of WWE talent have used cannabis, whether for stress relief or pain management. WWE reached its peak popularity during two main eras: the Godlen Era of the 1980s, where the late Hulk Hogan was the star and the Attitude Era of the 90s, led by stars like Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock. These periods saw unprecedented viewership. But what about marijuana and the WWE?

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The list of cannabis-friendly wrestlers includes major names such as Rob Van Dam, Randy Orton, Jeff Hardy, Matt Riddle, and Sean Waltman. Rob Van Dam in particular has championed marijuana publicly, crediting it with helping him manage pain and stay grounded during his career. Others, like Bret Hart and Val Venis, have expressed similar sentiments.

By 2022, WWE had largely stopped enforcing marijuana fines in practice. And in early 2025, WWE superstar Michin (Mia Yim) confirmed what many suspected: marijuana was officially removed from the company’s banned substance list “a couple of years ago.” This quiet but significant policy shift aligns with widespread legalization and normalization of cannabis use in much of the U.S.

The move has been welcomed by fans and insiders alike. WWE Hall of Famer Booker T called the change overdue, praising marijuana as a safer alternative to opioid-based painkillers, which have had devastating effects in the wrestling world.

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WWE’s new approach represents a more modern and compassionate vision of athlete wellness. Rather than punishing performers for using a now widely legal substance, the company has turned its focus toward more dangerous or performance-enhancing drugs. The shift gives wrestlers more autonomy over their health while also acknowledging cannabis’s role in long-term recovery.

As WWE continues to evolve in the era of legalized marijuana, its updated Wellness Policy reflects a forward-thinking attitude—one prioritizing performer well-being over outdated stigma.

How Alcohol And Cannabis Affect Gut Health

It has become a wellness focus, but how does marijuana and alcohol impact gut health?

Its awareness has significantly increased in the last decad, becoming a popular topic in both scientific research and public consciousness. While the concept of the gut-brain axis and the importance of the gut microbiome has been studied for decades, it is only recently that the general public has become more aware of the impact of gut health on overall well-being. Here is how alcohol and cannabis affect gut health.

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More people are questioning how lifestyle choices—especially substance use—impact the digestive system. While alcohol and cannabis are commonly used for social and recreational purposes, they interact with the gut in strikingly different ways. Understanding these differences can help guide healthier decisions, particularly for those prioritizing wellness and long-term health.
marijuana edible
Photo by LeslieLauren/Getty Images

Alcohol consumption, particularly in excess, has long been associated with poor gut health. Alcohol can damage the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, increase intestinal permeability (commonly known as “leaky gut”), and disturb the balance of the microbiome—the trillions of bacteria help regulate digestion, immune function, and even mood.

Heavy drinking promotes the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and reduces beneficial strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. This imbalance can trigger inflammation, digestive discomfort, and weaken the gut’s natural defenses. Chronic alcohol use has also been linked to gastrointestinal diseases such as gastritis, ulcers, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Cannabis interacts with the gut through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors help regulate digestion, appetite, and immune response. Unlike alcohol, cannabis does not damage the gut lining or directly alter gut permeability in most users. In fact, some studies suggest cannabinoids like CBD and THC may have anti-inflammatory effects which could benefit conditions such as Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Cannabis may also indirectly support gut health by reducing stress and anxiety—two factors known to worsen digestive symptoms. However, research is still emerging. Some users report slowed digestion or appetite changes with cannabis use, and smoking cannabis can carry respiratory and cardiovascular risks that don’t directly relate to the gut but may affect overall health.

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Both alcohol and cannabis can have different effects depending on dose, frequency, and form of consumption. Occasional moderate drinking may have limited gut impact for some individuals, while daily heavy use is clearly harmful. Similarly, cannabis edibles may influence digestion differently than smoking or vaping, and high-THC products can have stronger psychoactive effects.

When it comes to gut health, alcohol tends to be a clear disruptor, while cannabis presents a more nuanced profile. While early research shows potential benefits of cannabinoids for gut inflammation and stress-related digestive issues, more clinical studies are needed.

For individuals concerned with maintaining a healthy microbiome and digestive system, moderation and informed choices remain key.

Good News About Parkinson’s Disease And Medical Marijuana

Parkinson’s is in the news again – but there is a bit of hope with cannabis for those afflicted with the disease

Over 10 million people around the world suffer from this miserable disease. But there is good news about Parkinson’s disease and medical marijuana. A growing body of research is shedding light on how it may offer real hope for people living with the disease—a progressive nervous system disorder which affects movement and often includes tremors, stiffness, and balance issues. Recent studies from respected medical and academic institutions suggest that cannabis-based treatments may help relieve some of the most debilitating symptoms associated with the disease.

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One of the most promising areas is in managing non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, and pain. A 2022 study by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found that cannabis use among Parkinson’s patients led to significant improvement in sleep and pain levels. The researchers noted that these improvements often translated to a better overall quality of life. 
Photo by beusbeus/Getty Images

Even more intriguing is the evidence suggesting that cannabinoids may help with motor symptoms such as tremors and rigidity. A study from Tel Aviv University and Rabin Medical Center in Israel, published in Clinical Neuropharmacology, found that patients who used cannabis reported a 30% to 50% improvement in tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/

While medical marijuana is not a cure for Parkinson’s, it is increasingly seen as a complementary therapy, especially when traditional medications come with unwanted side effects or fail to provide full relief. Dr. Benzi Kluger, a neurologist and Parkinson’s specialist at the University of Rochester Medical Center, supports further exploration: “We’re seeing enough anecdotal evidence and early data to warrant larger, more rigorous clinical trials.”

Importantly, not all cannabis products are equal. Many experts recommend formulations high in cannabidiol (CBD) and low in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to reduce psychoactive effects while still providing symptom relief. As always, Parkinson’s patients should consult with their neurologist or a medical cannabis specialist before beginning any cannabis-based therapy.

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As public acceptance and legal access to medical marijuana grow, so does the opportunity to better understand its role in managing complex neurological conditions like Parkinson’s. Ongoing trials, such as those supported by the Parkinson’s Foundation and the Michael J. Fox Foundation, continue to investigate how cannabis could be integrated safely into long-term care plans.

While much research is still needed, the latest findings offer a welcome dose of optimism for the millions affected by Parkinson’s disease—and point to a future where medical cannabis may be a mainstream part of symptom management.

Guess Who Is A Big Supporter Of Legalizing Marijuana

The struggle continues to match federal policies with the majority of the public, but there is emerging a potential new ally.

As cannabis rescheduling is languishing in DC, a striking shift has taken place. Guess who is a big supporter of legalizing marijuana? A broad bipartisan consensus is forming around cannabis legalization—with Republicans increasingly joining the push. Polling from Pew Research reveals 88% of U.S. adults believe cannabis should be legal in some form—whether for medical or recreational purposes

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Photo by Denise Hasse/EyeEm/Getty Images

This aligns with a broader conservative trend favoring limited federal government and local control. Increasingly, Republican lawmakers argue that cannabis regulation should be a state issue—not a federally enforced one-size-fits-all policy.

Another driver of change: baby boomers and seniors. Once the backbone of anti-drug sentiment, older Americans are now among the growing base of legalization supporters. Pew’s data shows nearly half of Americans 65 and older support both medical and recreational cannabis, and only one in five oppose legalization entirely.

This evolution reflects not only shifting cultural attitudes but also growing recognition of cannabis’s medical potential, especially among older adults managing chronic pain or illness.

Many Republicans also see a fiscal opportunity. Legal cannabis generated over $2 billion in tax revenue in Colorado and over $1 billion in California, funding education, infrastructure, and health programs. Nationally, over half of Americans (52%) say legalization positively impacts local economies.

RELATED: More Boomers Are Embracing Cannabis

States facing budget shortfalls—some led by GOP governors—are increasingly looking to cannabis as a revenue source. Iowa, for example, is reportedly considering legalization as a solution to fill financial gaps left by tax cuts.

While economic arguments dominate, justice reform plays a role too. Pew’s data shows 42% of Americans believe legalization makes the criminal justice system fairer, with only 18% disagreeing. With bipartisan concern over mass incarceration, Republican lawmakers are now exploring cannabis reform as a step toward justice system balance.

As cannabis legalization moves from fringe to mainstream, Republicans are reshaping the narrative. Backed by strong voter support, economic incentives, and shifting generational views, cannabis policy is becoming a bipartisan cause—and a politically savvy one heading into 2026. If only the administration would pay attention.

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