Overdose deaths are plummeting. Scientists aren’t sure why.
Sep 20, 2024
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Emily Schultheis, a journalist specializing in election policies, discusses upcoming ballot measures like minimum-wage increases and marijuana legalization. Madeleine Baran highlights the U.S. military's troubling handling of war crimes, focusing on the Haditha Massacre and systemic issues in military justice. Additionally, recent data reveals a dramatic 10% drop in overdose deaths, igniting hope and discussions on the impact of addiction narratives. The conversation is a compelling mix of current events and deep dives into critical societal issues.
The upcoming ballot measures across several states aim to reform election policies, including the growing consideration of ranked choice voting to promote centrist candidates.
Recent data reveals that a notable decline in U.S. overdose deaths, attributed in part to increased access to naloxone and community efforts, is offering hope in the fight against addiction.
Deep dives
Significance of Ballot Measures in the 2024 Election
The upcoming election features numerous ballot measures across states like Virginia, Minnesota, and South Dakota, with over 150 measures proposed nationwide. Among these, ranked choice voting is gaining attention, allowing voters to rank candidates by preference, which aims to reduce politically extreme candidates and encourage centrist policies. In contrast, some states are pushing to ban ranked choice voting, highlighting the controversy surrounding electoral reforms. These measures could significantly influence state policies on essential issues and have the potential to spark national movements, much like previous efforts in healthcare and marijuana legalization.
Concerns Over Military Justice and War Crimes
The U.S. military justice system's handling of war crimes is often conducted out of public view, leading to allegations of serious misconduct going unpunished. A noteworthy case from the Iraq War, the Haditha Massacre, where Marines killed 24 civilians, exemplifies how military trials frequently result in minimal accountability, with many cases dismissed or met with lenient sentences. Investigative efforts have revealed a lack of transparency in the military justice system, making it difficult to identify and address its shortcomings. Such issues underscore the critical need for access to information in maintaining a functioning democracy and holding military proceedings accountable.
Positive Trends in Drug Overdose Deaths
Recent data indicates a significant drop in drug overdose deaths in the U.S., with a roughly 10 percent decrease being reported, the first decline in decades. Experts are cautiously optimistic, noting increased access to naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, may be contributing to this positive trend. States such as Vermont are witnessing the most significant improvements, with community efforts and shifting attitudes towards drug use playing a vital role. Researchers are continuing to analyze the factors behind this decrease to enhance strategies for saving more lives in the ongoing battle against addiction.
Historic Achievements in Major League Baseball
Shohei Ohtani has made history in Major League Baseball by becoming the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season, solidifying his status as a unique and formidable athlete. His impressive achievements since joining the MLB from Japan in 2018 have captivated fans and brought a new level of attention to the sport. In a post-game interview, Ohtani expressed his happiness and respect for his peers, highlighting the camaraderie in the league. This milestone reinforces the significant impact Ohtani has had on baseball and showcases his remarkable talent.
Across the U.S. in November, voters will weigh ballot measures including election policies, minimum-wage increases, and marijuana legalization. Politico’s Emily Schultheis takes a look.
Apple News In Conversation spoke to Madeleine Baran about how the U.S. military downplays possible war crimes.
U.S. overdose deaths plummeted, saving thousands of lives. NPR has the story.
Israel said it hit 100 Hezbollah rocket launchers in Lebanon. BBC News has more.
A Kentucky sheriff killed a judge in his chambers following an argument, police said. CNN has details.
Congress must ensure it can continue to govern in the aftermath of a “mass casualty” event, a bipartisan group of House members argued. The Washington Post examines the constitutional amendment they’re proposing.
ESPN looks at how Shohei Ohtani made MLB history with 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season.
Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.
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