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Republicans want answers over the Chinese spy balloon.
I would also like to know what is going on.
Over a week ago, a white balloon first appeared over US airspace. About the size of three buses, it flew over Montana, home to a key missile site. The military discussed shooting it down with President Biden. But for days it held off. Now, over the weekend, the military popped it over the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of South Carolina.
And Republicans are upset why?
For not shooting it down sooner. They called the delay a display of "weakness" and a failure to protect US airspace. And are considering passing a resolution this week condemning the Biden admin. But the military says it didn't want debris from the balloon to hit Americans — and advised Biden to hold off. Meanwhile, amid the tensions with China, Sec of State Antony Blinken has canceled his trip.
Why is China floating a balloon over the US again?
That's the question. This apparently isn't the first time it's happened — with multiple sightings in recent years. As for why they went with a balloon over something more subtle like a satellite: balloons can be cheaper and harder to detect by radar. Anyway, China isn't admitting this was a military balloon.
Oh?
It says this was a civilian aircraft collecting weather data. And has fired the head of its weather service. Meanwhile, it has criticized the US choice to shoot it down, calling the move an "overreaction." And said it reserved the right to "take further actions" in similar situations.
theSkimm
This isn't the last we'll hear about the "Up" sequel no one asked for: The Pentagon says there's a second Chinese spy balloon, this one seen flying over Latin America. Two spotted, 97 to go.
Turkey and Syria. Overnight, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit the region, killing more than 1,000 people in what's reportedly the strongest quake to strike Turkey since 1939. Thousands have been injured and potentially millions more impacted as tremors could be felt as far away as Cyprus, Lebanon, Israel, and Egypt. Dozens of buildings have collapsed. And the death toll is expected to rise. Hundreds of rescue workers have been deployed. And the EU and NATO said member states are also mobilizing support. It comes as President Biden has directed federal government agencies to assess a possible relief response to help those affected. Meanwhile, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed hope that the country will "get through this disaster" as soon as possible.
Who kept her crown and added some jewels…
Beyoncé. The queen beat traffic to earn her 32nd Grammy — breaking records for the most Grammy awards an artist has ever won in their career: 32. As she put it, she's "trying not to be too emotional" and just wants to "receive this night." Meanwhile, Harry Styles will be the one taking album of the year to his house. Bonnie Raitt also gave people something to talk about. Sam Smith and Kim Petras broke barriers for the LGBTQIA+ community. The first award for the best song for social change went out to an Iranian protest anthem. Quavo gave a moving tribute to Takeoff. Lizzo gave a "Special" performance...and speech. Viola Davis EGOT what she needed. Ben Affleck didn't. But at least Bad Bunny brought the love and passion.
Who's facing new allegations…
Rep. George Santos (R-NY). Last week, a former aide has accused the congressman of sexual harassment. The aide says he was offered a job last month. But he was then told to work as a volunteer while his paperwork went through. In that time, the aide says there was one point when Santos asked him if he was on Grindr and touched him inappropriately in the congressman's office. The aide says that days after the incident, his offer to work as a staffer was rescinded. Now, he's asked the House Ethics Committee to investigate Santos. The congressman — who faces a number of unrelated domestic and international investigations — has yet to comment.
'Why are you the best person for the job?' Ah, a dreaded interview classic. Since you'll wanna be prepared with a strong answer, review the listing and consider how your skills, work history, education, and goals line up with the role ahead of time. Come with a few quantifiable examples of how you've used your unique combo of experience to make a difference.
Want more pre-interview insights? Glassdoor's online community has intel on everything from common interview Qs to company culture. Plus, you can sort by the metrics that matter, like ratings and reviews, salary, pay equity, and DEI. To help find roles — and companies — that are right for you.*
Does scouring recipe sites and braving grocery store crowds stress you out? Same. That's where meal kit services come in. Their deliveries will save you time, money…and cortisol spikes. But there are a lot to choose from. Here's how to meet your perfect match.
If you tend to ask for substitutions, try HelloFresh. You can customize select dishes by swapping one protein or side for another. And new customers get 25 free meals and three surprise gifts.
If you consider heating up to be "cooking," it's gotta be Factor. Their fresh, never-frozen meals only need a few minutes in the microwave or oven. Head here for up to $276 off.
If your budget is your priority, go for EveryPlate. Tons of options. All the quality. Maximum convenience. All for $1.39 per meal.
Skimm Picks
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Stylish winter outfits for the office that'll keep you warm. With colder temps in full swing, here are a few cold-weather outfit ideas that'll keep you warm and looking chic at work until spring makes its way to your neck of the woods.
2. No-fail gifts for your best friend under $80. Whether you're celebrating their new job or a birthday, or you simply appreciate their friendship, we've gotcha covered with foolproof gifts they'll absolutely adore.
3. The best flowers to buy online for Valentine's Day. Roses are red, violets are blue…get 'em some classic gorgeous flowers to say 'ily.'
Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.
On Our Radar
30% off sitewide at Aurate with code VDAYLOVE. Nothing shines quite as bright as a brand-new piece of jewelry on the day of love. Wink, wink.
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.
An inspiration to many…Yehimi C (GA). She is an activist and artist whose work and paintings center around immigrants and their experiences, including those who are undocumented.
(Some) Birthdays…Jessica McGee (MA), Natalie Corcino (FL), Matt Buckles (OK), Gina Preziosi (AZ), Janel Wildermuth (MO), Haley Hegarty (Guyana), Harley Bartles (ME), Allison Levy (TX), Elizabeth Hoffman (NY), Jesse Brattain (FL), Sarah Post (NY), BJ Scanlon (NY), Sarah Goldstein Post (NY), Lynne Kelso Lesky (MI), Brittany Donowho (DC), Madison Moore (Ga), Victoria Allen (TN), Marge Gresham (NM), Melissa Harvey (TX)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm'd by: Rasheeda Campbell, Julie Shain, Maria del Carmen Corpus, and Mariza Smajlaj
Photos by Peter Zay/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
Ready or not, Monday's almost here. We've got what you need to prep for the week ahead — from the biggest conversation starters to the most important dates. Who says Sundays have to be scary?
President Biden is putting the final touches on his second State of the Union address.
Go on.
On Tuesday, Biden will deliver the nation's annual report card to Congress — and the American people, via major news networks. It comes as Congress is deeply divided (reminder: both the GOP and Dems narrowly control the House and Senate, respectively) and the president's own house is under a microscope (yes, the classified docs controversy). It also comes as only 23% of Americans are satisfied with how things are going in our country — though that's up 6% from a year ago. In addition to highlighting the ways the economy's moving in the right direction, Biden may try to boost his support by talking about...
Foreign affairs. Last year, Biden's SOTU happened just days after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This year, it's happening just days after announcing $2.2 billion in new aid for Ukraine. And as more and more Americans say we're spending too much. Also of note: China.In recent months, Biden has indicated support of Taiwan and the US just announced plans to expand its military presence in the Philippines to provide extra protection in the region. All of that strained already tense US-China relations, which is why Secretary of State Antony Blinken was supposed to travel to Beijing this weekend. That is, until a spy balloon entered the equation, and blew things even further off-course. (More on that in a bit.)
Bipartisanship and the debt ceiling. This will be Biden's first speech to Congress since the GOP took control of the House. So, he's likely to emphasize bipartisan achievements (think: the infrastructure bill, Safer Communities Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act). And areas where his admin wants more common ground, namely the debt ceiling.
Police reform and gun control. The White House will have a few important guests in the audience, including Tyre Nichols's parents and Brandon Tsay, the man who disarmed the shooter in Monterey Park, CA. So some want Biden to push for more police reform — and more gun control. Worth noting: Since New Years, at least 69 people have lost their lives in dozens of mass shootings.
theSkimm
Once again, it's time for the president to make the case for himself and his agenda to the American people. This year, the stakes may be even higher: Biden is reportedly on the heels of officially announcing his 2024 reelection bid. TBD how voters — and Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R-AR), who's delivering the GOP rebuttal — will respond.
What's Happening
📰 In news…
The US shot down a Chinese spy balloon over the Atlantic yesterday, after it had floated over the country for days. Meanwhile, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is packing up a few final boxes before her last day in office. And the Northeast is defrosting after a "historic Arctic outbreak." Oh, and a German woman was charged for murdering her lookalike, while the Dallas Zoo charged a young man with serious monkey business.
📈 In business…
Despite widespread tech layoffs, US employers added half a million jobs in January, sending the unemployment rate to its lowest level since 1969. Also in America, workaholic guys are finally giving work-life balance a spin — as other countries outlaw after-work emails and calls. Meanwhile, de-influencers might be the new influencers. And inflation chickens may make egg-cellent pets.
🩺 In health…
Here's what's at the bottom of the Laundress' stained reputation. And why buccal fat removal is all over your feed. Plus, one report shows most Americans are in favor of extinguishing tobacco sales. Also, it turns out there may have been a treatment for menopause all along.
Bookmark'd
Here's a look at the reads we've saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…
We've Lost the Plot...is this the real life? Or is this just fantasy? There's a reason you can't tell the difference.
The Oh-So-Popular Popcorn Dress...another early aughts fashion staple is back — and proving to be a go-to for every occasion.
Skimm Picks
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Sentimental Valentine's Day gifts that'll make them say 'aw.' We're talking personalized art, conversation-sparking journals, and date-night inspo. Time to bring some fuzzy feelings to the table.
2. Our recs for winter scarves and snoods under $100. We've rounded up some of our faves of the season to keep you feeling warm and looking chic, without spending three figures.
3. Energy-saving devices that'll save you money in the long run. These efficient products and smart home devices will make your wallet a lil' bigger and your life a lil' easier. Score.
Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.
Sunday Scaries, Who?
Here's one tip for a better start to your week.
Struggle with Sunday-somnia? You're not alone. If you're tired of constantly being tired, don't sleep on savoring — aka when you focus on a positive experience in extreme detail. Not only can savoring help boost your mood and reduce anxiety, researchers believe it can also improve the quality of your sleep. That's because it helps your brain focus on something "emotionally compelling and pleasurable," rather than worrying about things like the week ahead. Here are a few tips to get started…
Get specific. Pick a happy memory. It can be something big, small, or even something you're looking forward to in the future. Then, make it as detailed as possible by focusing on all five senses. What do you hear? What do you smell? What do you see?
Schedule a worry session. Several hours before bed, grab a journal and a pen. Set a timer for 15 minutes and jot down everything you're worrying about. Then set it aside, enjoy your eve, and hit the hay with a clear head.
Make it a habit. Train your brain to savor ordinary moments. Think: sipping your first cup of coffee, inhaling the rich scent of a new candle, or listening to the birds outside. The more you practice, the easier it becomes.
Save the Date
Like ours, your work and personal calendars are probably hectic. So here are some events you should know about...
Celebrate National Pizza Day with one of these deals. Sure to put some pep in your step.
The first part of "You" season 4 premieres. Grab your baseball cap.
PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games to awards shows are going down. Download it here.
News Quiz
Stumped by our news quiz yesterday? Here's the answer.
