Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell froze for a second time.

Second Time

The Story

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) froze for a second time. 

What’s going on?

Yesterday, McConnell froze up for over 30 seconds after a question from a reporter about his plans to run again. The incident marked the second time the Senate minority leader abruptly stopped during a press conference. In July, he paused for about 20 seconds during the opening remarks of a press conference. Back then, Republicans chalked it up to dehydration. Still, many raised questions over his health after a concussion from falling at an event in March. Yesterday, a spokesperson said McConnell froze because he “felt momentarily lightheaded.”

What does this mean?

McConnell’s reps said that he will take a trip to the doctor’s office before his next event “as a prudential measure.” If the minority leader were to step down as a result of these health scares, Kentucky law would require Gov. Andy Beshear (D), to replace him with a Republican. However, Beshear said earlier this month that any rumors of a replacement for McConnell would be “total speculation.”        

theSkimm

The concerns over the leader’s health, and other representatives, come as 50% of the Senate is 65 years old or older. Age has also been a concern for the two leading presidential candidates. While many see experience as an asset, others want an age limit — and are concerned that health issues could put the US’s leadership at risk.

Why you may want to pass on that puff puff…

Lead contamination. Yesterday, a study found higher levels of lead and cadmium in weed users' blood. In a study of more than 7,000 people, marijuana users had 27% higher lead levels in their blood than non-users. For cadmium, their levels were 22% higher. Chronic exposure to lead in adults can lead to higher risks of high blood pressure, heart problems, and kidney damage. Cadmium, a carcinogen, has been linked to kidney disease. One theory for why that may be is that cannabis is particularly good at absorbing heavy metals from the soil. Once those contaminants get absorbed, they pass through the stalk and make it into the leaves and flowers of the plant.

...Oh and then there’s Narcan. As early as next week, CVS and other pharmacies will start selling the opioid overdose reversal medication for $44.99 for a box of two doses.

Who could get fatter paychecks…

US workers. Yesterday, the Biden admin proposed expanding overtime payments for over 3 million US workers making about $55,000 a year. It comes over eight years after former President Obama proposed a similar plan that was struck down in court because a judge said the Labor Dept exceeded its authority. This time, the Biden admin thinks it will pass because it's a smaller raise from the current minimum. Right now, salaried workers making up to $35,568 a year can qualify for overtime pay. Labor advocates say it's time to raise the minimum as wage stagnation and inflation rise. Business groups say it can be costly and make staffing harder for small businesses. The rule will go through public comment for two months and is expected to face similar legal challenges.

What’s moving on…

Idalia. Today, the tropical storm is causing flash flood warnings in North Carolina after causing power outages, flooding, and infrastructure damage in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. The National Hurricane Center said the storm should move off-coast later today.

What’s putting up a warning sign…

Canada. Yesterday, the neighbors up north put out a travel advisory for LGTBQIA+ people who plan to visit the US. The Foreign Affairs Department says the warning comes amid the almost 500 anti-LGTBQIA+ laws that passed in the US.

Who we should pick, choose, and love...

Female surgeons.

While CNN is welcoming a new CEO…

21 Savage can do something for you on Call of Duty.

While Selena Gomez might have one strike…

We’re seeing double then nothing with Doja Cat’s new album cover.