A Change in the Wind
What to know: A Maryland congressman is taking on the offshore wind industry. His state relies on tourism and fisheries, he notes.
The TPPF take: Even before President Donald Trump took office, the offshore wind industry was in trouble.
“Costs keep going up, and embarrassing public failures, such as the turbine blade failure at the Vineyard Wind site off Massachusetts, aren’t helping,” says TPPF’s Robert Henneke. “There are good reasons — along with the cost savings — for ending the expensive and disappointing offshore wind debacle.”
For more on offshore wind, click here.
China Spies
What to know: The Trump administration is cracking down on China’s spying. Just last week, it arrested an agent of the Chinese Communist Party who was attempting to steal COVID-19 research.
The TPPF take: This is in sharp contrast to the Biden administration, which dithered in the face of Chinese spying. Remember the spy balloon?
“Instead of ordering the military to protect its sensitive airspace and exercise the authority it already has, Homeland Security adviser Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall convened brainstorming sessions in the White House,” says TPPF’s Chuck DeVore. “Every suggestion—jamming, directed energy weapons or using nets—were all shot down as too risky or not being an authorized use of force.”
For more on China’s spying, click here.
Screen Addiction
What to know: A new study says that screen addiction (mostly to social media) and suicidal behaviors are linked in teens.
The TPPF take: Texas and several other states have banned the use of cell phones in classrooms. That’s a great start.
“The overwhelming evidence shows that people who constantly use social media have higher levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, dissatisfaction with their life, obesity, sleep problems, attention disorder, addiction, and suicidal ideation,” says TPPF’s Brian Phillips. “The effects are even more pronounced—and shocking—among young people.”
For more on screen addiction, click here.