This Week in The Preamble: The Age of Medical Miracles, and Their Costs

When President Barack Obama rose to the podium in the East Room of the White House on March 23, 2010, the air crackled with anticipation. Lawmakers, advocates, and cameras packed the room as he prepared to sign the most sweeping health care reform in nearly half a century. “Today… health insu…

The high cost of prescription drugs in the US has been a concern for citizens, presidents, and policy experts for decades. Unlike many issues in our politics — say, climate or guns — there is widespread agreement that this is a problem that urgently needs solving.

Racial disparities in health outcomes are stark between Black Americans and other groups.

It was a cool day in Ohio when Little John Cupp noticed that he had shortness of breath while pushing a shopping cart. During the fall months of 2021, more symptoms started popping up, including severe swelling in his feet and ankles and an inability to sleep unless he was sitting up. A doctor found the culprit: Cupp’s heart was struggling to pump blood.

The first weeks after a baby is born are supposed to be filled with sleepless wonders: the smell of newborn skin, tiny fingers wrapping around yours, and hopeful dreams about who this new person will become.

Navigating federal health policy and the conversations about it can sometimes feel challenging because of the many different programs being discussed. If you sometimes feel lost about who is covered and how it works, this guide is for you: a primer about Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs and legislation relevant to the health care debate.

It doesn’t take a therapist to tell you that we are lonelier than ever. A 2024 Harvard report found that 21% of adults in the US feel lonely, and 75% report having little to no meaning or purpose.

When does the holiday season start? For some of us, it’s November 1. We have some cold weather recommendations, the best Swedish treats, plus several podcasts and shows you don’t want to miss!

Five centuries ago, Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press shattered the barriers to knowledge. Today, AI is doing the same. I take you on a journey into history that is strikingly similar to where we are today. Plus, I’m joined by Randi Weingarten, author of

You’re invited: