To the Point

Science continues to suffer attack from the Trump administration. Testimony on climate change and national security has been censored. Government research jobs are being moved out of Wasington. There’s a “real exodus” of expertise needed to face the challenges of the future.

“False flag” reports, even outright deceptions, have led to some of America’s longest wars. New technology makes another disastrous mistake more likely than ever. Tensions between the US and Iran are fertile ground for Artificial Intelligence, internet hackers and hawks in both countries.

The challenge of climate change can seem overwhelming--especially with the Trump administration dropping the ball. But cities have opportunities to make change. Consumers can develop new habits.  And ending our climate silence to talk about climate change could lead to real progress.

The house with the picket fence is an American tradition, protected by law. But, as prices rise, homeowners are closing the door on the next generation. Presidential candidates are proposing incentives to build apartment houses where they’ve been banned for generations. Beware the wrath of the NIMBYs.

On the other side of the DMZ, President Trump shook hands with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. A new book reveals Kim’s early life in a bubble and how his brutal dictatorship is covered up with a cult of personality.

President Trump is finally fulfilling his campaign pledge to undo the Obama Clean Power Plan. It’s supposedly a boost for “Clean Coal,” but Wall Street is skeptical and environmentalists are outraged. What does the federal rollback mean for state efforts to beat Climate Change?

This week’s Democratic presidential debates will feature 20 candidates, five moderators and a lot of commercials. Potential voters might not be able to learn as much as they want to. How will traditional news coverage--and social media--shape their understanding of what’s going on?   

In California, generations of victims have adapted, rebuilt and expanded development into fire-prone areas. But last year’s blazes set new records for massive destruction. With climate change, scientists say the fires will only get worse. Are Californians prepared? Are they paying attention?

When the Chief Executive lies repeatedly, what’s a reporter to do?  CNN’s Jim Acosta defends his multiple public challenges of Donald Trump in a book called, “The Enemy of the People.” Is Acosta serving as Truth’s messenger or inadvertently playing the President’s game?

Jet aircraft contribute 2% of all greenhouse gases--raising challenging questions.  Is there a moral obligation to travel less? What are the alternatives to going by plane? Are there different standards if you’re traveling for business, vacation or keeping the family together?