SUMMARY: The U.S. economy rebounded with a 3.3% annualized GDP growth in Q2 2025, reversing a 0.5% contraction in Q1 caused by Trump’s trade war-driven surge in imports. Imports plunged 29.8% in Q2, boosting growth. Consumer spending rose 1.6%, better than first estimated, though private investment dropped sharply by 13.8%, the steepest since 2020, partly due to reduced inventories. Federal government spending also declined. Trump’s tariffs, meant to protect U.S. industry and pay for tax cuts, have raised costs and caused business uncertainty. Economists predict slower growth near 1.5%, despite strong job market resilience.

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SUMMARY: The CDC has significantly reduced the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet) monitoring from eight to two pathogens—salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli—starting July. Previously, FoodNet tracked six additional germs, including campylobacter and listeria, but now monitoring them is optional. The CDC states this change allows better resource management, though it may be linked to past funding cuts. Critics warn the reduction could hinder outbreak detection and obscure comprehensive foodborne illness data. FoodNet, established in 1995, covers 16% of the U.S. population and provides crucial data on foodborne infections, aiding in understanding and preventing outbreaks.

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SUMMARY: After Hurricane Katrina devastated Gulfport, Mississippi, in 2005, recovery has been slow. The city encouraged rebuilding near the waterfront by offering property tax breaks to stimulate the economy and promote stronger construction standards. New homes feature elevated foundations and reinforced structures to withstand future storms, yet most are still in moderate flood zones. Despite progress, critics argue the recovery favored wealthier areas south of the railroad tracks and neglected vulnerable inland neighborhoods, exacerbating flooding issues. Federal buyouts of high-risk properties never materialized. Experts warn rising sea levels mean flood risks will increase over time, questioning the long-term safety of rebuilding in these zones.

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