1. THE HEALTH OF DEMOCRACY

A New York Times/Siena College poll reveals that many Americans are losing faith in the country's democracy. Nearly half of voters say it doesn't do a good job representing them, and three-quarters believe it’s under threat. People on both sides of the political spectrum feel corruption and self-interest are taking priority over ordinary citizens' needs. While concerns are high, most Americans trust the accuracy of the upcoming 2024 presidential election results, though they're worried that former President Trump might try to overturn the outcome if he loses. In general, Trump supporters see Vice President Kamala Harris and Democrats as threats to democracy, while Harris’s supporters view Trump similarly. Ultimately, voters from all sides want better policies to address issues like economic hardship and gun control, with some believing that major changes to the political system are necessary. Look up the topics covered in the original poll. Then, recreate the poll in your classroom and discuss how your results compare to the article’s.

2. RALLY AT MADISON SQUARE

Former President Donald Trump is set to hold a rally at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, alongside his running mate, JD Vance. This venue has a storied history with political events, ranging from Marilyn Monroe singing for JFK to a 1939 rally that supported Hitler, attended by thousands wearing Nazi armbands. The rally is happening just before the election, and tensions are high given recent political violence and controversies surrounding Trump, including his chief of staff labeling him a fascist. Security will be tight, with police planning to close streets and screen attendees. Trump’s rally is expected to attract supporters and protesters alike, reminiscent of the fierce political climate during previous events at the Garden. The police department is on alert, having previously dealt with protests and confrontations at such gatherings. The event reflects the ongoing divisions in American politics as Trump attempts to reclaim his influence in a city where he has faced significant opposition. Read abut other famous political events that have taken place at Madison Square Garden over the years. Choose one and write a summary of the event and its impact in history.

3. TAX CUT

North Dakota voters might soon vote on a measure that could eliminate property taxes. Supporters believe it could provide financial relief, while opponents warn it could lead to severe cuts in state services, like Medicaid, education, and infrastructure, as the state would need to replace the lost tax revenue. This replacement could cost an estimated $3.15 billion every two years. The measure's leader, Rick Becker, claims the state can afford this change by using funds from its oil tax savings and reducing spending on corporate welfare. However, many organizations argue that the plan lacks a clear strategy for how to manage the financial fallout. If passed, the measure would take effect on January 1, 2025. Some local governments might need to find alternative ways to generate revenue, such as new taxes or fees. The proposal has sparked intense debate, and while a similar measure failed in 2012, supporters believe the current political climate may lead to a closer vote this time around. Research what the money collected property taxes in your states goes toward. Write a summary of what you found and how a measure like the one on the ballot in North Dakota would affect your state.

4. PRESIDENTIAL APOLOGY

President Biden is set to apologize for the U.S. government’s role in running boarding schools where Native American children faced abuse, neglect, and were separated from their cultures. These schools, active from the 1800s to the 1960s, aimed to erase Native identities, with nearly 1,000 Native children reported to have died while attending them. During his speech in Arizona, Biden will address the Gila River Indian Community and talk about new federal funding aimed at supporting Native communities. Deb Haaland, the first Native American Interior Secretary, shared how her family was also affected by these schools, saying the apology is long overdue. This apology follows Canada’s 2008 acknowledgment of similar abuses. Biden’s apology also aligns with recent calls for memorials, research, and efforts to help Native communities heal from the trauma caused by these schools. Research the history of boarding schools for Native American and Indigenous Canadian children. Then, write an article that summarizes what you learned and why the leader of the country apologizing on behalf of the government is significant.

5. THE TRUTH BEHIND THE ACCOUNT

A social media account called "Black Insurrectionist," which spread conspiracy theories about the 2024 election, was revealed to be run by Jason G. Palmer, a white man from upstate New York. The account gained over 300,000 followers by posting false claims about Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Some of these claims were amplified by former President Trump and his allies. Palmer has a history of legal issues, including fraud accusations and unpaid debts. Although he initially denied owning the account, he later admitted to being involved with it. Palmer has also struggled with drug addiction and has been sued by business partners for alleged fraud. The account was deactivated after Palmer was contacted for comment, showing how easily misinformation can spread online and impact public opinion in a close election. Create a way to share how to spot misinformation and disinformation surrounding the election, like a script and storyboard for a video or a flyer that can be shared in print or on social media.