BUDGET

Apr 04 2026POLITICS

Balancing Spending: Big Boost for Military, Big Cuts for the Planet

The 2027 budget plan from the current administration takes a clear stance on where it stands on spending. A massive $1. 5 trillion is being funneled toward defense, the highest figure ever requested. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, other areas face sharp reductions. Programs aimed at tackling climate

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Apr 04 2026POLITICS

Where Trump's Money Really Goes

Last week, the White House released its 2027 budget proposal—a plan that asks for $1. 5 trillion aimed at military spending, the biggest request of its kind in decades. But the money isn’t just for tanks and jets. It also includes a controversial missile system worth $185 billion, new fighter planes

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Apr 04 2026POLITICS

Alaska’s Dividend Debate: Balancing Checks and Cash

Alaska’s state budget talks just got heated over how much money each resident should get from the Permanent Fund dividend—a yearly cash payout meant to share oil wealth. A key committee voted 6-5 to move forward with a plan that could send residents around $3, 800 each, but only if they dip deep int

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Apr 04 2026POLITICS

A $1. 5 trillion defense grab despite claims states should pay for day care

The federal government can’t "take care of day care" but can somehow find half a trillion dollars extra for bombs and battleships. That’s the message slipping through Washington as a staggering $1. 5 trillion Pentagon budget lands on Capitol Hill, a leap big enough to buy every toddler in America te

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Apr 04 2026POLITICS

Big Changes Coming for Medical Research Funding

The government wants to take $5 billion from medical research next year. That money helps scientists study diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's. Now, they're asking for $41 billion instead of the $46 billion they get now. Some research centers might close completely under this plan. Five important

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Apr 02 2026POLITICS

Boosting Defense, Cutting Home Programs: Trump’s 2027 Budget Plan

Trump is set to unveil his budget for fiscal year 2027 on Friday. He wants to use the money to strengthen the military a lot. To pay for it, he plans to cut funding from domestic programs and health‑care benefits. The plan could be risky. People are unhappy with the war in Iran and gas pri

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Apr 02 2026POLITICS

Indiana's colleges slim down: 200 degree programs face cuts under new rules

Indiana is shaking up its college degrees. Nearly 20% of public college programs will disappear or merge soon after state leaders set new rules. Why? Many degrees had almost no students and were costing money for almost no return. The state reviewed over 1, 000 programs and decided 210 must go, anot

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Apr 01 2026POLITICS

Budget Hang‑Up: Three Big Questions Keep New York’s Money Plan on Hold

The state of New York faces another year of budget delays, a pattern that began when Governor Kathy Hochul assumed office in 2021. The annual deadline of April 1 has yet to be met, and lawmakers seem more concerned with policy disputes than with the numbers themselves. Senator Andrea Stewart‑Cousin

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Mar 28 2026FINANCE

Spring Money Check‑Up: Simple Steps to Save More

The season of new beginnings is the perfect time to tidy up your wallet. Start by looking at the little extras that creep into everyday life. Fast shipping, upgraded seats, or premium grocery brands sound nice at first, but they add up. Check a month of bills and spot those upgrades. Ask yo

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Mar 27 2026EDUCATION

Anchorage Schools: The Cost of Too Many Buildings

The Anchorage School Board talks about a $90 million shortfall, but the real problem is that the district has more schools than it needs. Last year, a $50 million reserve was used to keep the budget balanced, and now the district is at the minimum legal balance. If the board had kept a healthy cushi

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