— The Chainsmokers, planning to perform…at the edge of space. Why not “Closer”?
Marriage on the Rocks
The Story
Lawmakers are scrambling to protect same-sex and interracial marriages.
Tell me more.
Yesterday, the House voted 267-157 to pass the Respect for Marriage Act, which would federally protect marriage between same-sex and interracial couples. The bill also repeals a 1996 law that only recognizes marriages as a union between a man and a woman. 47 Republicans out of 211 voted in favor. But many Republicans argued that the vote was the Democrats’ political ploy to appeal to their base. Dems say it's a direct response to Justice Clarence Thomas, who wrote a concurring opinion when SCOTUS overturned Roe v. Wade, calling on the court to “reconsider” the 2015 rulings that protect same-sex marriage. Some worry interracial marriage could be overturned next.
What happens now?
That’s up to the Senate. Because of the filibuster, the bill would need 10 Republicans for it to pass. So far, only Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) has agreed to sign on. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) has yet to weigh in. And Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has yet to call a vote. Meanwhile, a poll last month found that over 70% of adults think same-sex marriages should be recognized by law.
theSkimm
Rights that have been set in stone for decades are now up in the air. But these votes are forcing lawmakers to go on record with their stance — ahead of the November midterms that will determine which party holds power.
And Also...This
Who’s making the rounds on Capitol Hill…
Ukraine’s first lady, Olena Zelenska. Today, she’s set to address Congress at 11 am ET. The goal: ask the US for more military and political support as the country faces ongoing attacks from Russia, particularly in eastern and southern Ukraine. And as Ukraine also says it's preparing a counter-attack. The news also comes days after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy removed two of his top officials, indicating they may have collaborated with Russia. But some are hearing alarm bells, speculating the firings are Zelenskyy taking advantage of his war authority to solidify power.
What could have some people rolling up their sleeves…
Novavax. Yesterday, the CDC gave the green light for the two-dose COVID-19 vaccine for adults days after the FDA cleared it. Unlike Pfizer’s and Moderna’s mRNA-based vaccines, Novavax uses the same tech as vaccines for hepatitis B and HPV — something that may or may not be appealing to the 26 to 37 million US adults who haven’t been vaccinated yet. But Novavax has already documented three cases of myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle. It‘s a risk that is believed to be small compared to the risk of getting myocarditis from COVID-19 itself. Next up: the company will ship doses for distribution in the coming days.
Who’s saying ‘the sh*t show must go on’…
A judge to Elon Musk. Yesterday, a judge told the world’s wealthiest person to suit up for trial in October. This is over Musk’s effort to love bomb and then dump Twitter, accusing the company of undercounting the number of fake accounts on the platform. Twitter fired back at Musk saying 'it's just a bad case of buyer's remorse' and is suing Musk to make sure he sees the $44 billion buyout through. The company wants to finish the trial and close the deal by October 24. Always trying to keep things short, that Twitter.
Mood rings, aura readings, color consultants (yep, those exist). There’s something so satisfying about finding the perfect color to match your energy. Cariuma knows what we mean. Their sustainably made, celeb-loved sneakers come in a million and one (OK, more like a dozen, but still) IG-worthy, perfect-for-summer shades. So you can find juuust the pair you’re looking for. Here are some of our faves:
That’s how many acres Wrangell-St. Alias National Park & Preserve (aka America’s largest national park) is. It's the same size as Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Switzerland combined. Talk about BPE — big park energy.
But don’t worry if you don’t see a trip to Alaska in your immediate future. Because with Nat Geo Premium with Disney+,* adventure is never far away. Their streaming, digital, and print content can help you get in touch with your inner trailblazer. It inspires everyday exploration — whether you’re headed across the country, on a local hike, or to your own backyard. Brb, subscribing now.
*Valid only for new and returning Disney+ subscribers ages 18+ with no current active subscription. Additional terms apply.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. How to stay bright-eyed and bushy-tailed all summer long. Or at least look like it. This mascara duo isn’t just smudge-proof. It also helps moisturize and thicken your lashes with each coat. Plus it happens to be on sale right now.*
2. The secret to perfect pitchers of iced tea. This brand’s kit comes with a BPA-free pitcher and tumbler, plus four iced tea pouches in flavors like blue pineapple. Which ~magically~ changes colors when you add fresh citrus. Psst…use code SKIMM20 for 20% off sitewide.*
3. Clever products that'll organize your jewelry and accessories. It's time for solutions. From scarf hangers to trinket dishes to velvet trays that keep your precious jewels safe and sound. Thank us later.
4. Stylish home decor items under $75. While your space may be calling out for a little TLC, your wallet may not be prepared for a top-to-bottom makeover. Here's how to achieve a new look on a budget.
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Good enough for now…Harper S (NY). Her upcoming podcast shares stories of the detours in life, when unexpected challenges happen that lead people to figure out how to move forward and redefine what matters most.
(Some) Birthdays…Marilyn Haykin (NY), Sheila Caputo (IL), Frank Levato P (IL), Gigi Rovito (IL), theSkimm’s Kat Klein (NY), Lilly Goworowski (IL), Katie Moran (NY), Emily Jacobs (MA, Melissa Pierro (FL), Paige Host (NY), Janice Kolbe (TX), Abbie Biggers (TX), Leigh Rocca (MO), Kanya Dwire (MN), Cami Williams (NY), Renée Andriaccio (TX), Claire Jones (SC), Therese Daly (NY), Amy Landrum (LA), Caroline Johnson (KY)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
It’s been over a decade since the Internet was first introduced to a tiny, talking shell. And now he’s back for a full film, “Marcel the Shell with Shoes On.” We texted with Jenny Slate, co-creator and voice of Marcel, on how she chose his tone, the book she’s read “one bazillion times,” and her go-to cocktail(s). Watch now.
theSkimm Loyalty Program
Design: theSkimm
10 Gifts to Celebrate 10 Years of Skimm’ng* continues. Fancy some of our fave kitchenware essentials? Log in and enter to win here. Not a member? No worries, you can still get in on the gifts. Enroll in our Loyalty Program and we’ll automatically add you to the giveaway*.
*Terms and Conditions apply for the 10 Gifts to Celebrate 10 Years of Skimm’ng Sweepstakes occurring between July 18, 2022 and July 29, 2022. By joining and/or entering, you affirm that you have read and agree to the T&Cs. Reach out to loyalty@theSkimm.com for questions.
Skimm’d by Melanie De Lima, Kate Gilhool, Julie Shain, and Mariza Smajlaj
