What's going on: On the campaign trail, President Donald Trump consistently signaled his commitment to veterans (he even played the controversial, pro-vet anthem "Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue" three times at one rally). But guess who’s bearing the brunt of his administration’s job cuts? Vets, who made up 28% of the federal workforce last year (compared to just 5% of the private sector). While the exact number of veterans let go is still unclear, they’re disproportionately impacted by the cuts — especially since federal hiring policies usually give them preference (although Trump’s DEI efforts might change this, too). Though at least one agency, the Interior Department, exempted former military members from mass layoffs, the burden remains for the rest. Even many Republican lawmakers feel uneasy about how firings are harming a consistent part of their base, with Politico reporting that some are privately begging the White House to rehire some of the 1,000 employees dismissed from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
What it means: For many, getting laid off from a federal job means more than just losing a paycheck (and benefits, of course). Unemployment is especially tough for vets, who researchers say are more at risk for mental health struggles compared to civilians, with steady jobs playing a key role in suicide prevention. Advocates add that military vets tend to gain an intense sense of belonging and purpose from federal jobs, seeing them as a way to serve beyond the front lines of active duty. As the director of the Union Veterans Council said: "This is the largest attack on veteran employment in our lifetime."
What's going on: Nearly 100 people in Texas and New Mexico have been infected with measles, health officials confirmed over the weekend. In Texas alone, 77 of the 90 cases are in children under 17, and more than a dozen people have been hospitalized, according to its Department of State Health Services. It marks a significant jump from the 24 cases reported earlier this month in the Lone Star state. Most of the infections are concentrated in the South Plains region, which borders New Mexico, where nine cases have been confirmed. While Texas requires measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations for public school students, the state allows exemptions for “reasons of conscience.”
What it means: Local health officials warn the outbreak could grow, as measles is one of the most contagious viruses, and is particularly dangerous for children under the age of 5. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said most people infected in this outbreak were unvaccinated. The US declared measles eradicated in 2000 thanks to widespread vaccinations, but immunization rates have declined in recent years, particularly during the pandemic when people were avoiding the doctor’s office. The rise in cases also comes amid growing vaccine skepticism, including at the highest levels of government.
What Happens When 60 Million People Change How They Eat, Shop, and Spend?
What's going on: Weight-loss meds like Ozempic and Wegovy aren’t just transforming waistlines — they’re reshaping the economy. With supply issues easing, more people are jumping on GLP-1s, and businesses are taking note. Goldman Sachs predicts that if 60 million Americans take these meds by 2028, GDP could rise 1%, adding trillions to the economy. Why? Potentially lower health care costs and shifting consumer habits. Compared to early 2023, shoppers bought more lean meats and produce while cutting back on snacks and baked goods last year. As one analyst put it: “Why not buy filet mignon when you only have the appetite for a few ounces of steak?” Luxury fitness is also getting a boost, with high-end gyms like Life Time Inc. now offering GLP-1 prescriptions, metabolic testing, and structured training programs.
What it means: Consumers can expect brands to keep up. Some food companies are already rolling out “GLP-1 friendly” products with smaller portions and more protein to match shifting appetites. While Walmart’s CEO says food spending has dipped recently, experts predict that could change as users splurge on higher-quality ingredients. Beyond eating habits, wardrobes are shifting too — Rent the Runway reports customers are choosing smaller, more fitted styles as their bodies change. But not everyone is celebrating the trend. Some body positivity advocates worry that a resurgence of “thin” as the beauty standard could push brands away from size inclusivity. Experts say that GLP-1s will likely create ripples across even more industries in the future.
Class is in session: Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be teaching a diplomacy course at an Ivy League university. Wonder if the former boss will come up.
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
Now’s the best time to start stocking up on layers for spring, starting with this everyday cardigan. It has deep pockets, comes in sizes XXS–5X, and costs less than $50.*
Credit card experts can’t recommend this 0% intro APR card enough. You won’t pay interest on balance transfers until 2026, but can earn up to 20,000 miles in your first three months.*
The true sign of a great book? You want to read instead of watch TV. These binge-worthy books pass the test for our Skimm Reads editors.
Soup Season™ doesn’t have an official end date, but with spring just around the corner, we’re making room for one last exceptionally cozy stew — specifically, Dishing Out Health’s Pasta e Ceci. In this one-pot version of the Italian classic, trusty pantry staples (including protein-packed chickpeas, savory tomato paste, and delightfully small ditalini pasta) are combined with hearty kale and a generous amount of pecorino romano cheese to create a brothy, starchy bowl of goodness. Serve it with some crusty bread — and you’ll wish you discovered it sooner.
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