Why Republican Politicians Do Whatever Trump Says
The former president’s stories of business dominance were often exaggerated. With Republican politicians, he’s found a group he can control.
Zelensky Finds a General
Ukrainian General Valerii Zaluzhny had the second-most-difficult job in the world. His boss has the most difficult one.
‘Evidence Maximalism’ Is How the Internet Argues Now
A simple theory for why the internet is so conspiratorial
How The Atlantic First Made Sense of Jazz
In 1922, a musicologist imagined how future historians might judge the day’s jazz cynics.
The Despots of Silicon Valley
The intellectual origins of the movement that self-described “techno-optimists” are advancing is dark—and deeply familiar.
Trump’s ‘Knock on the Door’
The former president and his aides are formulating plans to deport millions of migrants.
Toby Keith Had More to Talk About Than His Politics
The late singer became a household name by leaning into partisan controversy, obscuring his often-artful songwriting.
The Special Election That Could Give Democrats Hope for November
Today marks the start of their campaign to retake Congress.
A Fake Yellow Line Changed Football Forever
You’ve been watching the Super Bowl in mixed reality for 25 years.
Six Books About Winter as It Once Was
These titles remind us of the season’s long-established joys and its necessary quiet, even as the climate changes.
Blinken’s Make-or-Break Tour of the Middle East
Whether Washington can de-escalate tensions will determine the future of its regional authority.
Schopenhauer’s Advice on How to Achieve Great Things
Do you have an important project in mind? The 19th-century philosopher’s approach is still timely today.
I Don’t Know If I Can Call Myself a Mom
After enduring infant loss and years of fertility challenges, I still don’t have a child.
The Founders’ Guide to Happiness
Today people think of happiness as something that results from the pursuit of pleasure, but the Constitution’s Framers had other ideas.
The Long Odds of This Year’s Super Bowl Location
For years, the NFL balked at any association with gambling—and Las Vegas. That’s all changed.
A Farewell to Up for Debate
This newsletter is coming to an end, but my inbox stays open to all of you.
Welcome Back to the Chaos of the Trump Era
Yesterday provided a small glimpse of the madness to come.
Lab Diamonds Are Too Perfect for Their Own Good
The traditional diamond industry is thought to be under threat from lab-grown stones. But that’s not how luxury works.
California’s Climate Has Come Unmoored
The weather of catastrophe is here.
What’s a Kids’ Fantasy Show Without Wonder?
Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ commitment to faithfulness turned out to be a constraint.
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