News Above the Noise—Week of March 30, 2025
1. The Impact of the Earthquake in Myanmar, Explained
After a 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit central Myanmar on Friday, buildings collapsed, infrastructure was destroyed, and tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand. The disaster hits civil war-ravaged Myanmar, causing more turmoil for an already impoverished nation. For more on the areas hit hardest and the news that continues to emerge about the devastation, click here.
2. How Trump’s “Liberation Day” Might Affect the Economy
President Trump is calling this Wednesday “Liberation Day,” which is when he’s set to announce reciprocal tariffs (including a 25% duty on all imported cars and many auto parts) aimed at addressing trade imbalances and protecting American industries. Financial markets have reacted with volatility amid concerns over a potential trade war and its implications, and economists are divided on the potential impact of these tariffs, with some arguing they could revitalize domestic manufacturing and others warning of possible inflationary effects and reduced consumer spending. To learn more, click here.
3. What Happens to Health Research When “Women” is a Banned Word?
Recent federal funding cuts under the Trump administration have led to the shutdown of studies focusing on women's health issues, such as Alzheimer's care, uterine fibroids, and pregnancy risks. Researchers report that federal agencies have been instructed to reject grants containing terms like “women,” “trans,” or “diversity”—a directive that has resulted in the abrupt termination of fellowships and research projects and has raised concerns about the future of health research targeting specific populations. You can read an excellent, comprehensive explainer of these directives and their impact here.
4. This is Your Brain on Retirement
For the millions of Americans who retire each year, stopping work might seem like a well-deserved break, but it can also precipitate big changes in brain health, including an increased risk of cognitive decline and depression. At the same time, retirement can also be an opportunity for improving cognitive and mental health, with newfound time to socialize and take on hobbies. Learn more here.
5. Wisconsin and Florida Prepare for Special Elections
This week voters in Florida will elect replacements for Rep. Matt Gaetz and Rep. Mike Waltz while Wisconsin voters could flip their State Supreme Court. In Wisconsin, Susan Crawford and Brad Schimel are running for a 10-year term that will decide important questions of state law like redistricting, abortion, the rights of unions, and the voting rules that could impact who wins the state in 2026 and 2028. Liberal justices currently have a 4-3 majority on the court. This election will either keep that majority or switch it to the conservatives. For background on the candidates’ positions, relevant rulings, experience, and publicized endorsements, check out this comprehensive, nonpartisan guide from guides.vote. For more on the special elections happening in Florida, click here.
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