Does that mean I’ll finally stop getting political texts?
Probably not. But this week is the moment they've all been waiting for. More than 168 million Americans are eligible to vote in the midterm elections. And more than 40 million already did it. It’s a good reminder that while midterm elections may not be the flashiest, they’re important. And can be seen as a referendum on:
The party in power: With great power comes…the likelihood of losing it in the midterms. It’s typical for presidents to have gone into the midterms with control of Congress, only to have voters hand them a reality check. This year’s not expected to be different. Democrats have a slim majority (read: eight more seats in the House and a split Senate). And President Biden’s approval ratings are hovering at or below 40% — right where former President Trump’s were during his midterms. In the House, Dems could lose 20 seats or more. As for the Senate, a handful of states are looking especially tight.
The issues people care about: as in, there are a lot. Like the economy: many Americans are feeling the pinch on their wallets as inflation and mortgages reach highs. But low unemployment rates and GDP growth last quarter have simmered some recession rumors for now. There’s also abortion — a key driver for many women to the polls. Republicans have suggested a 15-week abortion ban while Democrats promise they’ll codify Roe. Other issues driving people to the polls: gun policy, crime, immigration, and climate change, among others.
theSkimm
The race for president isn’t the only election that matters. Tomorrow, voters are making their voices heard on everything from which party controls Congress to who’s on the school board. If you haven’t voted yet, make sure you’re registered and get a sneak peek at your ballot.
Meta. This week, the tech company is reportedly planning “large-scale layoffs” of its more than 85,000 employees. It’s unclear how many positions could be on the chopping block, but it’s expected to be the largest job cut since the company was founded in 2004. The news comes weeks after Meta profits took a nosedive following last month’s Q3 earnings report. The culprits: a decline in advertising sales and TikTok competition. It comes as Twitter went ahead with changes of its own, announcing it’ll let anyone pay $7.99 a month to get that sweet blue checkmark on their profile. But not everyone’s a fan of “Chief Twit” Elon Musk’s changes. Since he took over last month, a reported 900,000 users have deactivated their accounts. And 200,000 people have hopped on Mastodon.
Who could be playing peacemaker…
The Biden admin. Yesterday, reports said that the Biden admin had undisclosed talks with Russia to warn against using nuclear weapons. And that the US is pressuring Ukraine to open talks with Russia. According to the report, it's a plan to ensure Kyiv maintains support from Western countries that are growing “wary” of fueling a years-long war — what officials are apparently calling “Ukraine fatigue.” That’s especially true in parts of Europe, Africa, and Latin America, where the war’s sent the cost of food and fuel skyrocketing. But the push —according to anonymous sources — comes as the Biden admin accuses the Kremlin of escalating the war and “unwillingness” to engage in negotiations. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also shut down any future talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Last month, he issued a decree saying it was “impossible” to sit down with Putin.
Who people are remembering…
Aaron Carter. Over the weekend, the singer and actor died. He was 34. Police say they’re investigating the “suspicious death.” Carter became a teen sensation in the late ‘90s and early 2000s with hits like “I Want Candy,” and “Aaron’s Party (Come Get It).” He also made appearances on “Lizzie McGuire” and “7th Heaven.” But Carter later said there was a dark side to his childhood fame and was open about his addiction and mental health struggles. His brother — and member of the Backstreet Boys — Nick Carter, blamed “addiction and mental illness” for his death. And in an emotional post wrote, “God, please take care of my baby brother.” Actress Hilary Duff remembered him as someone with “charm that was absolutely effervescent.”
Where things could get heated…
COP27. Yesterday, the UN kicked off its two-week-long climate change summit in Egypt. It comes after a UN report found the past eight years were on track to be the warmest on record, and that goals to limit global warming are “barely within reach.” And tensions remain over how wealthy countries — contributing the most to climate change — can make good on their $100 billion pledge to help poorer countries suffering the consequences.
The holiday season is upon us, and as you prep for the celebrations ahead, we wanna help ya every step of the way. Enter: theSkimm’s Holiday Shoppes, packed with gift recs for anyone and everyone, like…
From now through December, we’ll all be buying…a lot. But when you drop $$$ at Thrive Causemetics, you’re helping communities thrive allll year long. Because they donate to non-profit orgs that help people battling cancer, homelessness, and domestic abuse. Stock up on these products and start giving:
2. A sneak peek at sweet savings. This year, Old Navy’s Black Friday deals are extra epic. Think: up to 60% off coats, shackets, and scarves. Plus matching PJs and sweaters for the whole fam. Including your pup. (Psst…we’re eyeing the Fair Isle prints.) Gimme.*
3.How to say “pass the potatoes” in 14 different languages. This language-learning app will teach you everything from vocab to pronunciation to history and culture. (Tongue twisters included.) And it’ll only take three weeks to become convo-ready. Sign up today to get 55% off.*
4.Something funny (and foolproof) that’ll add some spice to your Thanksgiving. This card game was created by two comedians on a mission to spark convos, create memories, and get the whole family cheesin’. Oh, and Skimm’rs can score free shipping with code SKIMM.*
On Our Radar
FSA or HSA eligible items you didn’t know you could get on Amazon. Don't let unused funds go to waste. Grab a few of these wellness products before the end of the year.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Growing change…Will G (CT). He’s spreading the word about Levo, a program creating a more sustainable and impactful food system using a network of local hydroponic growers.
(Some) Birthdays…Tommy Melly (NY), Howard Jahre (NY), Jamie Horne (FL), Carly Potock (CA), Maddie Dunlap (CA), Kylie Ruscheinski (IL), Mariana Fanous (NY), Tavia Harrison (GA), Colleen Sullivan (MA), Joseph Mastroianni (PA), Diana Stanczak (NJ), Michelle De La Cruz (TX), Chelsea DuDeVoire (FL), Charisa McFarland (MO), Jenna Biancavilla (AZ), Eugenia Chalbaud (PA), Claire Logsdon (TX)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
We texted with Uncle Jesse…ahem, John Stamos about his audiobook and podcast picks, season two of “Big Shot,” and the Olsen twins. Watch now? You got it, dude.
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