What has people talking…

Russia. Today, Russian authorities said they’ve arrested an American journalist on espionage charges. Officials say the Wall Street Journal’s Evan Gershkovich was collecting info “on the instructions of the United States…about one of the enterprises of the Russian military-industrial complex.” His most recent article this week was about the state of Russia’s economy. Gershkovich is the first journalist with a US outlet to be arrested on espionage charges in Russia since the Cold War. If convicted, Gershkovich could face up to 20 years in prison on espionage charges.

Which state has people talking…

Kentucky. Yesterday, state GOP lawmakers overturned Gov. Andy Beshear’s (D) veto and moved forward with a law that bans gender-affirming care for minors. The measure also restricts the bathrooms children can use, bans schools from discussing sexual orientation or gender identity, and allows teachers to opt out of using preferred gender pronouns. It comes as at least 11 states have enacted similar measures. Republicans, who hold a super majority in the state, said using “puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones” is dangerous for kids. But Democrats said the move would “[deny] families, their physicians, and their therapists the right to make medically informed decisions.” The law's expected to go into effect this summer, but LGBTQIA+ advocates have vowed to sue. The news comes ahead of International Transgender Day of Visibility.

…Oh and speaking of anti-transgender laws, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice (R) also signed into law a ban on gender-affirming care for minors. The change is expected to go into effect in January 2024.

What’s on the Senate’s mind…

Iraq. Yesterday, the Senate voted 66 to 30 to formally repeal the authorization for the use of military force (AUMF) in Iraq. In 2002, Congress voted to invade Iraq as the Bush administration alleged the country had weapons of mass destruction. Since then, almost every president, including Presidents Trump and Obama, has used the AUMF at one point in time. Some lawmakers say it’s time for Congress to take back its power. Others say the AUMF is still needed because there are threats abroad. Next, the legislation goes to the Republican-led House. If it passes Congress, President Biden — who supports the measure — is expected to sign the bill.

What got the stamp of approval…

Narcan. Yesterday, the FDA said the nasal spray could be sold over the counter without a prescription. Narcan can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose within minutes. And pharmacies in most states have been able to provide it without a prescription. Now, it’ll be more accessible when it hits shelves at convenience stores, supermarkets, and gas stations this summer.

Who people have well-wishes for…

Pope Francis.

What’s full of stars…

Wes Anderson’s “Asteroid City.”