— What Hilary Duff says her Hollywood nemesis proposed as a peace offering. And now, it's so yesterday.
Health Policy
America's Next Top Doctor?
What's going on: Casey Means, MD, is not your typical surgeon general pick. The holistic medicine doctor and wellness influencer built a following speaking out on blood sugar, ultra-processed foods, and chronic disease. She also co-wrote a book seen as the MAHA movement's bible with her brother, a Trump health official. At her long-awaited confirmation hearing on Wednesday, Means sidestepped lawmakers' questions on whether or not she believes vaccines cause autism, declined to commit to promoting flu and measles shots amid outbreaks, and emphasized "informed consent." (Research consistently demonstrates the benefits of vaccination.) On reproductive health, she defended past comments that birth control pills are prescribed "like candy," adding that while she supports access, they can have "horrifying side effects."
What it means: The surgeon general does not set policy, but the role carries a powerful megaphone. Supporters say she could use the role to amplify popular, albeit controversial, messages about nutrition, exercise, and chronic disease prevention. But Means's inactive medical license and incomplete residency have raised questions about whether she's qualified to serve as the country's doctor. Critics from both parties question her vaccine stance, and a Republican senator warned that her views on pesticides could ripple through farm country. Her confirmation is widely expected to pass — though it's unclear when a decision will be made.
We've fallen (back) in love with Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's timeless, minimalist style. Here's how to dress like her, without a single designer price tag.
Is it just us, or is the quality of drugstore beauty products seriously improving? These products are particular standouts.
Keep scrolling...more recs below
Money
Trump's Retirement Pitch
What's going on: First came the "Trump Accounts" for babies. Now, he's eyeing your golden years. During his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump pledged to create a new government-backed retirement account for Americans who don't have access to a plan at work. The idea: Let them invest through a program modeled after the Thrift Savings Plan — the 401(k)-style system used by federal employees — and sweeten the deal with a $1,000 annual government match. If it materializes, the plan could reach nearly 56 million Americans who currently lack workplace retirement coverage. Details are limited, but Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the proposal could roll out in the coming weeks or months.
The reality: Trump appears ready to expand the federal footprint in Americans' financial lives. But reshaping retirement isn't something the White House can do solo.For now, it can only create these accounts — but it can't auto-enroll workers or require anyone to participate. In other words: you'd still have to opt in. (One expert told Axios it might be as simple as checking a box on your tax return.) As for that $1,000 annual match? It'll likely draw from a 2022 Biden-era effort that already aims to expand retirement enrollments — but that doesn't kick in until 2027. Some analysts are "cautiously optimistic" about Trump's plan, especially since Social Security's main trust fund could run dry by 2033. Not exactly a relaxing outlook.
What's going on: When someone you love dies, it's irrefutably, soul-crushingly hard (an understatement). And on top of processing your grief, there are meticulous and practical tasks to be completed. Specifically: picking up the financial pieces. Sandwich Generation, consider this your nudge to think about those pieces now — for your parents and for yourself. The Wall Street Journal recently outlined the top five financial "blind spots" that tend to hit spouses hardest during bereavement. From getting locked out of important accounts to surprise "widow's penalties" at tax time, none of this is exactly a boon in the middle of grief.
We've been there: They call it "estate planning," a surprisingly civilized word for a depressing but necessary process. If you or your parents are married, WSJ recommends creating joint accounts for most financial assets and property for easier access. At the same time, each partner should build credit in their own name so no one becomes invisible to credit bureaus if the other dies. Next: life insurance, if you can swing it. Update beneficiaries on policies, IRAs, and 401(k)s — and create a will (to avoid horror stories like this one). You can also use estate planning checklists and set up digital legacy options on password managers. After a death, lean on guides to figure out which documents you'll need. And yes — a personalized master spreadsheet never hurts.
The Amazon Baby Sale is happening now — we're talking strollers, clothing, and play items, all significantly reduced. So whether you have a little one, are competing for aunt of the year, or are expecting soon, grab what you need while it's on sale:
The newest brand to get in on the functional beverage train: San Pellegrino. These new Strawberry Crema and Cherry Sorbetto flavors are spiked with vitamin B6 and magnesium for a little wellness boost.
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Extra Credit
File
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