1. DEBATE AFTERMATH

Former President Donald Trump criticized both ABC News and Fox News during a Wednesday interview on "Fox & Friends." He was unhappy with how ABC moderators, David Muir and Linsey Davis, handled the debate between him and Vice President Kamala Harris, accusing them of being biased and fact-checking him unfairly while being lenient with Harris. Trump said ABC had "lost credibility" and even suggested the network should lose its broadcasting license. Surprisingly, Trump praised CNN, a network he's often criticized, saying the debate with President Biden on CNN was "more honorable." When asked about participating in a debate on Fox News, Trump dismissed the idea, expressing a dislike for moderators Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum, preferring instead Fox pundits like Sean Hannity or Jesse Watters. Trump's remarks followed a wave of criticism from his supporters, who claimed the ABC debate felt like a "three on one" attack. ABC moderators fact-checked many of Trump’s claims, including one about migrants eating pets, which has been debunked. Trump also implied Harris was given debate questions in advance, although ABC News denied this. In closing, Trump said that while some media outlets are honest, he believes around 80% are "seriously dishonest." Find at least 3 sources that covered both the Trump/Biden and Trump/Harris debates. Compare each outlet’s coverage between the two debates, then coverage between each outlet. Write at least a paragraph about what similarities, differences, and trends you notice.

2. HEALTH CARE CONCERNS ABROAD

A recent government-commissioned report has revealed that England's National Health Service (NHS) is in a severe crisis. The review, led by surgeon Ara Darzi, highlights long wait times for treatment, deteriorating hospital conditions, and inadequate medical equipment. Years of underfunding, especially during the 2010s when the Conservative government cut spending, have left the NHS struggling to meet demand, worsened by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who commissioned the report after taking office, acknowledges the scale of the problem and has promised a 10-year plan to overhaul the NHS, including investments in technology, preventive care, and community-based health services. However, he has warned that improvements will take time. The report also criticizes past administrative reforms that worsened the system, calling them a disaster. While satisfaction with the NHS has plummeted, Starmer and other officials are urging patience as they work to rebuild one of the nation's most cherished institutions. Research how Britain’s health care system differs from that of the U.S. Then, write an article that explains the key differences and the concerns for the NHS that are now being addressed by Prime Minister Starmer.

3. URANIUM REVEAL

North Korea has revealed a previously secretive uranium-enrichment facility, showcasing it as part of a push to boost its nuclear arsenal. The country’s leader Kim Jong Un visited the facility, expressing satisfaction with its capabilities and urging an increase in nuclear weapons production. The site’s exact location isn't confirmed, but it may be part of the Yongbyon complex, which was previously shown to outsiders in 2010. This reveal could be aimed at putting pressure on the U.S. and its allies. The facility includes around 1,000 centrifuges, which could produce enough uranium for one bomb annually. Experts are concerned about North Korea’s ongoing expansion of its nuclear capabilities, especially in light of its recent cooperation with Russia and increased military testing. Several articles have come out since the reveal explaining what the uranium facility is and why this move is significant in global politics. Read up on the topic from at least 3 different sources, then write your own summary article of the event and its context.

4. FILM PULLED FROM FESTIVAL

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) canceled all screenings of the documentary *Russians at War* after facing backlash, with critics calling it pro-Kremlin propaganda. The film, directed by Russian-Canadian Anastasia Trofimova, follows Russian soldiers in Ukraine. While Trofimova insists the film is antiwar and condemns Russia's invasion, many believe it humanizes soldiers from a military accused of war crimes. The cancellation comes after protests and concerns about public safety, despite TIFF originally defending the film. Ukrainian diplomats and the Ukrainian-Canadian community strongly opposed it, especially in Canada, home to many of Ukrainian descent. Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland shared their concerns, stating it was inappropriate for Canadian public money to fund the film. Critics also questioned Trofimova's impartiality, pointing to her past work for RT, a Russian state media outlet known for spreading Kremlin propaganda. Trofimova, however, claimed full editorial control over the film and denied any government influence. The controversy escalated after the film's premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where Trofimova argued that it was important to show the human side of all soldiers, not just political leaders. However, many see no moral equivalence between the sides in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, leading to widespread rejection of the film. Do you think films like this should still be shown at events like this film festival or did organizers do the right thing by cancelling the screenings? Write an opinion piece explaining your stance on the topic.

5. A SOMBER ANNIVERSARY

On September 11, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris, former President Donald Trump, and President Joe Biden put aside their political differences to honor the nearly 3,000 people who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Despite a heated debate the night before, the political figures attended memorial events in New York, Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon, paying tribute to the victims of the attacks.

At Ground Zero in New York, Harris and Trump shook hands, marking their second-ever meeting. Biden and Trump did not interact directly but were both present for the ceremonies. The day’s events showed a rare moment of unity in American politics, although the break from political rivalry was brief. After attending memorials, all three figures returned to their campaign schedules, with Harris and Trump set to hold events in swing states soon after. The significance of 9/11 temporarily overshadowed their differences, but normal political activities resumed shortly after the commemorations. Using the internet, research news stories covering the anniversary of 9/11 over the last 23 years, particularly comparing coverage on other election years. Write at least a paragraph comparing the ways media outlets reflected on the anniversary over the years.