Jil McIntosh is a seasoned freelance writer with over 35 years of experience, currently contributing to Driving.ca since 2016. Her expertise spans new-vehicle reviews, automotive technology, and a passion for antique cars, with a specialization in “How It Works” columns. McIntosh is a voting member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) and a juror for the Women’s World Car of the Year Awards. Throughout her career, she has written for numerous publications and has received several accolades, including the AJAC Journalist of the Year award in 2016.
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According to CNN data analyst Harry Enten, Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” is the most unpopular piece of legislation passed by Congress in decades, polling significantly worse than even the Affordable Care Act. Polling data from various news outlets shows the bill with a net favorability ranging from -10 to -22 points, with independent voters holding particularly negative views. This unpopularity poses a challenge for Republicans, especially with the upcoming elections, as the administration attempts to promote the bill and even considers renaming it to improve its public perception.
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Governor Cuomo expressed confidence in minimizing the impact of Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa’s vote, suggesting it would be seen as wasted, as both Trump and leading Republicans would prioritize stopping Maya Wiley. Cuomo hinted at potential cooperation with Trump, noting the former president’s desire for “redemption” in New York, referencing Trump’s rejection by the state’s voters. While avoiding a direct answer, Cuomo implied communication with the White House, referencing a prior relationship with the president.
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Yosemite National Park ranger Shannon “SJ” Joslin was fired after hanging a large transgender pride flag on El Capitan in protest of policies targeting transgender people under the Trump administration. Park officials are working with the Justice Department to pursue administrative action against several park employees and possible criminal charges against visitors who violated demonstration restrictions. The new restrictions, which prohibit banners larger than 15 square feet in wilderness areas, were put in place shortly after the flag display. Joslin’s supporters claim the firing is unjust, while park officials defend the regulations, stating the priority is the protection of park resources and visitor experience.
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A federal judge has mandated that Mississippi redraw its Supreme Court electoral map due to its detrimental impact on the voting power of Black residents. The court found the current map, in place since 1987, violated the Voting Rights Act by splitting the Delta region, a historically Black area, and diminishing its influence. This ruling, supported by the ACLU, highlights a historic injustice and will necessitate the Mississippi Legislature to create a new map before future elections. It may serve as a precedent for challenging similar maps nationwide, emphasizing the importance of fair representation and equal voting rights for all Mississippians.
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After 11 years, Target CEO Brian Cornell is stepping down amidst declining sales and controversy, with Michael Fiddelke, the current COO, set to take over in 2026. Cornell, who will become executive chairman, previously revitalized Target, but the company has faced a downturn due to strategic missteps, including the retreat of its DEI programs which caused customer backlash. Target’s sales have fallen for three consecutive quarters, and the company has struggled with a shopper slowdown, increased tariffs, and competition from other retailers. Analysts are divided on whether the new leadership can resolve the issues.
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The diplomatic relationship between Israel and France has reached a crisis point following France’s announcement to recognize a Palestinian state. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused French President Emmanuel Macron of fomenting antisemitism, citing a surge of antisemitic acts in France after the announcement. The French presidency responded by calling Netanyahu’s allegation “abject” and “erroneous,” emphasizing France’s commitment to protecting its Jewish citizens. This disagreement is part of a broader trend, as numerous nations have moved toward recognizing Palestinian statehood, a move that has drawn criticism from Israel.
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The recent actions by federal agents in Washington, D.C. exemplify a long-brewing far-right ideology, as evidenced by the sentiments expressed during the incident. This echoes earlier street confrontations spearheaded by groups like Patriot Prayer and the Proud Boys. These groups have a history of advocating violence against immigrants and leftists, and, at times, have received favorable treatment from law enforcement. The agents’ behavior, including taunts and the removal of anti-ICE banners, reflects this ongoing trend, revealing a concerning alignment of far-right ideology with official actions.
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Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro responded to increased US military presence and a doubled reward for his arrest by deploying 4.5 million militiamen across the country, vowing to defend Venezuelan soil. This move came after reports of US naval movements in the region, though a US Department of Defense official later clarified that no ships were in the area. Maduro’s actions are a response to accusations of drug trafficking by the United States, which has not had diplomatic relations with Venezuela since 2019 and has designated Maduro as a threat to US national security. The Venezuelan government rejects these accusations, labeling them as threats and defamation.
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Overnight into Wednesday, August 20, a Russian drone strike on Okhtyrka, in the Sumy region, injured 14 people, including a family with children, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. These attacks continue despite ongoing discussions regarding peace talks, including meetings between President Trump and both Putin and Zelensky. Zelensky reported further attacks, including glide bombs in Kostiantynivka and strikes across multiple regions, prompting calls for increased sanctions against Russia. The situation underscores the need for a ceasefire to facilitate meaningful peace negotiations, with Trump setting a two-week timeline to assess diplomatic progress.
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John Q. Hosedrinker