Robots Are Becoming Alarmingly Strong
From the Los Angeles Times: Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University have developed a variety of origami-inspired artificial muscles that can lift up to a thousand times their own weight — and yet be dexterous enough to grip and raise a delicate flower. The devices, described in the Proceedings of the…
The 3 Reasons Republicans Might Vote Down Trump’s Tax Bill
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell during a Judiciary Committee hearing earlier this month. Tom Williams/AP Despite plans to hold a vote by the end of the week, Senate Republicans are still trying to round up the necessary votes. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has only two votes to spare on taxes, and at least six of…
Trump Makes “Pocahontas” Crack at Elizabeth Warren During Event Honoring Native Americans
On Monday, the White House hosted an event honoring Native American code talkers, who during World War II developed a secret communications system based on their native language that played a crucial role in the war. After initially deferring to his Chief of Staff John Kelly to deliver the ceremony’s remarks, the president took to…
Sen. Al Franken Apologizes for Groping Allegations, Says He Has No Plans to Resign
Greg Mathieson/ZUMA Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) on Monday addressed the allegations of sexual misconduct directed at him, saying that he was “tremendously sorry” and hoped to regain the trust of those he has let down, including his supporters and staff. The Minnesota senator also said that he did not intend to resign over the controversy, which…
What Does the Future Look Like If Net Neutrality Goes Away?
Richard B. Levine/Levine Roberts/Newscom via ZUMA “Net neutrality” is a simple thing: it mandates that ISPs (internet service providers, usually your cable or mobile phone company) provide the same level of service to all comers—from mighty Disney to modest Breitbart to tiny little startups. Without it, internet providers can sign exclusive deals with big companies…
There Are 2 Bosses at the CFPB Right Now. One Is Suing. One Brought Doughnuts.
Octavio Jones/ Tampa Bay Times/ Zumapress On Monday morning, two different people showed up for work at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, claiming to be the acting directors of the financial watchdog agency following the departure of its Obama-era director, Richard Cordray, late last week. Mick Mulvaney, Trump’s White House budget director and the president’s pick to run…