theSkimm - Turkey bacon is getting political

But first: Remembering 9/11 a generation later — Check out what we Skimm’d for you today
daily_skimm
 

Update location or View forecast
 

What's Happening

Former President Trump shakes hands with VP Kamala Harris at the start of the second presidential debate of the 2024 election.
Politics

It Started With a Handshake, but Then It Went Like This…

What's going on: Last night, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump faced off for the first time in what may be their only debate before Election Day. The presidential nominees answered questions on foreign policy, fracking (lots of fracking), Jan 6, and immigration. Throughout the night, Harris repeatedly put Trump on the defensive, riling him up over his criminal cases, Project 2025, and crowd sizes. In a strong moment for Harris, the VP said Trump “hand-selected” the three Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade, leading to “Trump abortion bans.” Trump would not answer if he would sign a national abortion ban as president, but said he’s been “a leader on fertilization,” presumably meaning in-vitro fertilization. On immigration, the former president repeated his running mate Sen. JD Vance's (R-OH) false claims about immigrants stealing pets in Ohio. Then, there was everything both candidates said while their mics were muted.

What it means: Right off the bat, the night struck a noticeably different tone (and pace) than the Trump-Biden debate nearly two months ago, highlighting how much the race has shifted. At one point, Harris even had to explicitly remind Trump: “You’re not running against Joe Biden. You are running against me.” While Trump’s advisers hoped he would focus on the issues, he took the VP’s bait, went on long (and, often, false) tangents, and wasn't a fan of the on-the-spot fact checking. Still, neither candidate offered specifics when it came to policy (see this and this). TBD on whether there will be a second debate between the candidates. Meanwhile, some people have already made up their minds — like Taylor Swift, who officially endorsed VP Harris last night. The impact of this showdown could soon play out, with early voting starting next week

Related: If Last Night Was Sensory Overload, Here Are Some Memes to Help You Make Sense of It All (Teen Vogue)

 
US News

Police Confrontation with Miami Dolphins Player Reignites Use of Force Concerns 

What's going on: A traffic stop involving Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill is under investigation and has put a spotlight on how, when, and upon whom police use force. Here’s what happened: Police stopped Hill for speeding this past Sunday, before his first football game of the season. After a brief exchange with one of the officers, who repeatedly told Hill to keep his car window rolled down, the situation escalated quickly. Police body cam footage shows officers handcuffing Hill and forcing him face-first onto the ground, with one officer placing a knee on his back. During the stop, Hill said: “I’m just being Black in America, bro.” Because the stop happened so close to the stadium, some of Hill’s teammates were passing by and tried to intervene (one was handcuffed himself). Hill spoke out about the incident, telling CNN: “If I wasn’t Tyreek Hill, worst-case scenario, we would have had a different article — ‘Tyreek Hill got shot in front of Hard Rock Stadium.’” 

What it means: Hill said his recent experience reflects “the talk” many Black families must have with their kids about the realities of driving as a Black person in America. Black drivers stopped for traffic violations are more likely to experience the threat or use of force by police, according to a national law enforcement survey — a finding echoed by a Bureau of Justice Statistics special report. In a statement earlier this week, the Dolphins called it “heartbreaking” to see officers use “unnecessary force and hostility” against players like Hill. A local police union countered that the officers involved were following protocol because Hill was “uncooperative.” The mayor says the incident is under review. One of the officers involved has been assigned (for now) to desk duty. 

Related: In Traffic Stops, Black People in the US “Carry the Burden of Ensuring We Are Not Murdered” (USA Today)

 
Health

Doctors May Be Performing Unnecessary C-Sections on Black Women

What's going on: A new study suggests doctors are more likely to perform cesarean sections on Black mothers — regardless of whether the surgery is medically necessary. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 1 million births across 68 hospitals in New Jersey, making it the largest study of its kind. They found that healthy Black mothers are 20% more likely to undergo a C-section than white mothers, even when they have similar medical histories. The procedure was also more likely to occur when hospitals didn’t have any scheduled C-sections. The researchers suggest this disparity may be driven by both the doctors’ racial biases and financial incentives to operate on Black women, leaving the patients more vulnerable to serious complications and higher medical bills.

What it means: The researchers noted that it’s not clear how racial bias among the doctors in the study developed, since only so much can be deduced from medical records and notes. Doctors may have been more willing to perform C-sections on Black women sooner due to existing racial disparities in childbirth outcomes. The maternal mortality rate for Black women remains higher than that of other women in the US. However, Black mothers might feel less empowered to challenge a decision for a C-section, and when they do, their concerns may be dismissed due to implicit bias — which continues to be a problem. Although C-sections are the most common surgery in the US, advocates and organizations have been urging doctors to reduce their use, as the procedure can lead to unnecessary complications. 

Related: The Number of Maternity Care Deserts in the US Is Growing (NBC)

 

Quick Hits

👀 Halle Berry is sharing why she took a three-year break from dating.


💈 Troll hair is hitting the runways and it looks...exactly like you'd expect it to.


🥓 Can bacon be political? Apparently, yes. Take this quiz to see which side yours is on.


🙃 Don’t believe everything you see (on your FYP): The truth about “cortisol face.”


🗣️ There are benefits to talking to yourself, and we feel seen.

 

Scorecard

The week's sports news and culture stories, ranked.

Alex Morgan

Winning: Jason Kelce nailed his ESPN debut, and you won’t believe where he got his outfit. Tom Brady, take notes.

Chaotic: What's it like to have your secret relationship hard launched on C-SPAN? A pair of basketball superstars seem to have found out the hard way.

Hang it in the Louvre: Alex Morgan officially played her last NWSL game. No, we’re not crying. You’re crying.

 

Skimm Picks

Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…

Skimm'rs can get 20% off Speks' bestselling Geode, a magnet fidget toy that we use to stop endless scrolling. Use code SKIMM20 at checkout.


You deserve some nice pajamas. These buttery-soft Skims PJs are the first ones we reach for. But this modal set is a nice, less-expensive alternative that holds up well with lots of wash and wear.


Looking for something good to read? Our books editors can't stop raving about The Editor: How Publishing Legend Judith Jones Shaped Culture in America and Big Fan. Best enjoyed with a supportive reading pillow and cozy candle.


Here are 10 clever products to get you out the door in 10 minutes, including a dry shampoo that really works and a $25 dress you can wear anytime, anywhere.

 

Tell Us

Viewers watching Trump and Harris at the debate

Did the debate change your opinion of either former President Donald Trump or Vice President Kamala Harris?

 

Extra Credit

Megan Thee Stallion

Tune In

Need a palate cleanser after last night’s debate? You’re in luck: The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards are tonight. In addition to Megan Thee Stallion hosting, expect performances by pop princesses Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter, and, of all people, Eminem. Will the millennial icon rap his greatest hits? Will Taylor Swift — who leads the night with 12 nominations — become the winningist woman in VMAs history? And will Travis Kelce tag along? We have no idea, but we'll be watching at 8 pm ET to find out.

 

Game Time

puzzletime

Looking for a crossword that’s not impossible to solve? You’re in luck. This one even offers hints when you get stuck. The faster you finish, the better your score — and the more impressed the group chat will be. Go on.

Meet Us On The Leaderboard

Flipart | Spelltower | Crossword | Typeshift | Pile-Up Poker

 

We Think You'd Like This

 

Shop smarter with the Skimm Shopping newsletter—your guide to curated products, books, and more to solve your everyday needs.

 
 

Older messages

The CMAs didn’t get the Beyoncé memo​​

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

But first: why are you still using a corded vacuum? — Check out what we Skimm'd for you today September 10, 2024 Subscribe Read in browser But first: why are you still using a corded vacuum? Update

A croissant lamp has people throwing shade

Monday, September 9, 2024

But first: not-boring work clothes for your in-office days — Check out what we Skimm'd for you today September 9, 2024 Subscribe Read in browser Header Image But first: not-boring work clothes for

Weekend: When Did Dorm Rooms Get So Bougie? 🛏️

Sunday, September 8, 2024

But first: play your cards right — Check out what we Skimm'd for you today September 8, 2024 Subscribe Read in browser Header Image Together with Hallmark But first: play your cards right Update

Weekend: Do I Have to Swap Airplane Seats? 🛩​​

Saturday, September 7, 2024

But first: a nice-looking doormat you can throw in the wash — Check out what we Skimm'd for you today September 7, 2024 Subscribe Read in browser Header Image But first: a nice-looking doormat you

Gluteal amnesia is…wait we forgot

Friday, September 6, 2024

But first: Would you watch Tom Brady's vlog? — Check out what we Skimm'd for you today September 6, 2024 Subscribe Read in browser Header Image But first: Would you watch Tom Brady's vlog?

You Might Also Like

"Winter Stores" by Charlotte Brontë

Saturday, December 21, 2024

We take from life one little share, / And say that this shall be December 21, 2024 donate Winter Stores Charlotte Brontë We take from life one little share, And say that this shall be A space, redeemed

5-Bullet Friday — 52 Wild Learnings from 2024, The Most Soothing YouTube Channel, Bluegrass, Creamy Honey, and a Guiding Quote for 2025

Saturday, December 21, 2024

“Change. But start slowly, because direction is more important than speed.” ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏

This ‘00s Sarah Jessica Parker-Approved Shoe Is Coming Back In 2025

Saturday, December 21, 2024

We're fully on board. The Zoe Report Daily The Zoe Report 12.20.2024 This '00s Sarah Jessica Parker-Approved Shoe Is Coming Back In 2025 (Trends) This '00s Sarah Jessica Parker-Approved

How Does Maryam Nassir Zadeh Stay in Business?

Friday, December 20, 2024

Today in style, self, culture, and power. The Cut December 20, 2024 STYLE How Does Maryam Nassir Zadeh Stay in Business? The brand once defined how downtown girls wanted to dress. Now it's a

Kim Kardashian's Micro Thong & Bra Were Covered In Fur

Friday, December 20, 2024

Plus, one writer's attempt to conquer the "no pants" trend on a first date, your daily horoscope, and more. Dec. 20, 2024 Bustle Daily I wore the "no pants" trend on a first

Gifts That Will Still Arrive on Time

Friday, December 20, 2024

And backless bras and pasties for every size. The Cut Shop December 20, 2024 Every product is independently selected by our editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Photo-

The 25 Best TV Shows Of 2024

Friday, December 20, 2024

Plus: In a new Bustle profile, Shay Mitchell talks about the holidays, her kids, and family. • Dec. 20, 2024 Up Next Your complete guide to industry-shaping entertainment news, exclusive interviews

What People Are Getting Wrong This Week: The New Jersey Drone Invasion

Friday, December 20, 2024

Catch up the latest from Lifehacker No matter how many report strange drones in the sky, it's extremely unlikely to be anything otherworldly. Here are some of the things people are proba Not

You're doing something right

Friday, December 20, 2024

͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏

New and Old #193

Friday, December 20, 2024

Friday roundup and commentary ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏