Key state polls: Mess in the making?

Who is leading the presidential race in the seven states considered most critical to victory in 2024: Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada?

Voters may be ready to cancel Trump show

More than it’s anything else, an American presidential election is a TV series. And all the available evidence appears to show that the nation is ready to change the channel.

Friend uncomfortable with party’s theme

DEAR HARRIETTE: I’m 19, and I was invited to a close friend’s major milestone birthday party. Initially, I agreed to go, but I’ve since learned that the theme is “sexy Hollywood.” The mood board my friend created and feels strongly about features tight, skimpy skirts and bralettes, which I’m not comfortable wearing. I prefer more low-key events and feel overwhelmed by the extravagant nature of this theme.

When an entire country changes its mind

Andrew Jackson, once almost universally admired as a personification of refreshing democratic values, now is considered a prosecutor of genocide. Ulysses Grant, once portrayed as a shiftless drunk and political dunce, is a symbol of generosity and prudence. Woodrow Wilson, once hailed as the idealist of his age, is considered a racist. Dwight Eisenhower, once disparaged as a presidential mediocrity principally interested in his putting game, is remembered for putting America on a strong footing for the coming decade of the 1960s.

Partner expects other to spend lots of money

DEAR HARRIETTE: I’m starting to feel uneasy about my relationship with my girlfriend. We’ve been together for about a year now, and while I care for her, it seems like when we spend time together, it involves me spending money on her. Whether it’s buying her meals or gifts or covering other expenses, there’s always some sort of financial disbursement expected from me. In the beginning, I didn’t think much of it because I wanted to show her how much I cared. However, now it’s become a pattern, and I’m starting to wonder if she’s with me for the right reasons. It’s not that I mind treating her, but I’m beginning to feel like my value in this relationship is tied to what I can provide financially.

 The gender and intensity gaps

Kamala Harris’ chances of winning the election continue to increase because she is improving her performance on two critical and related metrics – the gender gap and the intensity gap.

Sibling faces dilemma over business loan

DEAR HARRIETTE: My 23-year-old brother has asked me for a substantial loan to start a new business. While I want to help, I’m feeling uneasy about lending such a large sum. At 47, I’m more cautious about my financial decisions, and this request feels quite big. I’ve seen how starting a new venture can be unpredictable, and I’m worried that a possible financial setback could affect our bond if the money is not paid back. Additionally, I’m mindful of how this loan might impact my own finances and future plans. I’ve been considering alternative ways to offer support without directly lending the money. Perhaps helping create a solid business plan or connecting him with resources might be options. Any advice on how to address this would be great. – Financial Family Feud DEAR FINANCIAL FAMILY FEUD: Perhaps you can do a combination of things. First, tell your brother that you want to support him, but you are uncomfortable about doing exactly what he has requested. Being direct is important so that you don’t get his hopes up.

Enlarged red blood cells can be from alcohol

Dear Doctors: My husband is having an elective surgery soon. It requires full anesthesia, so he has had a lot of pre-op tests. One of the blood tests showed that his red blood cells are too big. The nurse said it happens when you drink too much. What causes that? Is it dangerous?

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