Juliette Kayyem, a former assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, shares insights on the shocking New Year's Eve attack in New Orleans, discussing its implications for national security. Ewan Ashley, a renowned professor at Stanford, presents groundbreaking research highlighting exercise as a transformative medical intervention, showcasing its effects on health. Together, they explore the interconnectedness of security challenges and personal well-being, emphasizing the need for vigilance in both public safety and health initiatives.
The tragic incident in New Orleans, classified as a terrorist attack, highlights ongoing concerns about safety during public celebrations and potential extremist threats.
Jimmy Carter's impactful global health initiatives, particularly in eradicating Guinea worm disease, reflect the significant role of leadership in addressing neglected tropical health issues.
Deep dives
New Year's Eve Tragedy in New Orleans
A horrific incident occurred in New Orleans as a truck driver, identified as Samsuad Dim Jabbar, plowed through a crowd on Bourbon Street during New Year's celebrations, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and numerous injuries. The attacker was armed with weapons and had an ISIS flag in his vehicle, leading authorities to classify the event as a terrorist attack. Witnesses described the chaotic scene, expressing disbelief at the violence that unfolded on what was supposed to be a festive night. Law enforcement officials stated that the FBI is investigating potential accomplices, raising concerns that Jabbar may not have acted alone.
Jimmy Carter's Global Health Legacy
In the wake of former President Jimmy Carter's passing, his impactful work on global health is being acknowledged, particularly regarding the near eradication of Guinea worm disease. Under Carter's leadership through the Carter Center, this effort has dramatically reduced cases from 3.5 million to just 14 reported cases in recent years. Carter framed health as a fundamental human right, driving attention to neglected tropical diseases that afflict the world's poorest populations. His influence spurred action on public health issues, pushing leaders and organizations to contribute to solutions for longstanding health crises.
The Profound Benefits of Exercise
Recent research reveals that exercise might be the most potent medical intervention known, providing far-reaching benefits for physical and mental health. Engaging in regular physical activity not only reduces the risk of heart disease and cancer, but also impacts various systems in the body, including the digestive and mental health systems. A study involving rats demonstrated that exercise leads to significant positive changes at the cellular level, counteracting the effects of diseases. Such findings emphasize that even small amounts of movement can yield substantial health rewards, highlighting the importance of incorporating exercise into daily routines.
Legal Controversies in North Carolina Elections
Control of a seat on the North Carolina State Supreme Court is caught in a legal dispute over the validity of approximately 60,000 ballots after a closely contested election. The Republican challenger, Jefferson Griffin, claims these ballots were improperly cast due to registration issues, potentially altering the outcome of the election. Both a federal court and the state Board of Elections had previously dismissed these claims, indicating that the voters in question were eligible. The situation raises broader concerns about public trust in electoral processes, particularly given the tight margin of victory and the political maneuvering surrounding it.
Wednesday on the News Hour, New Year's celebrations turned to horror as a driver tore through Bourbon Street in New Orleans, killing and wounding multiple people. Then, we examine Jimmy Carter's global health legacy as the late president's goal of eradicating a tropical disease appears within reach. Plus, new research shows exercise could be the "most potent medical intervention ever known." PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode