American computer scientist and businessman, co‑founder of Google
In late March and early April 2026, juries in New Mexico and California found Meta liable for harming children through addictive platform design and failure to protect against sexual exploitation. Meta was ordered to pay $375 million in New Mexico and $4.2 million in California, alongside Google’s $1.8 million penalty. These landmark rulings challenge legal protections like Section 230 and signal a shift toward greater accountability for social media companies.
Senator Chris Murphy was photographed at a protest in California supporting a proposed 5% wealth tax on billionaires, drawing criticism for traveling from Connecticut. The tax aims to fund public programs but faces opposition from Gov. Gavin Newsom and wealthy donors, who warn it could cause capital flight and revenue loss.
The US government is advancing its AI strategy with significant industry backing, including a new $100 million initiative led by the Innovation Council Action, which aims to influence policy and support Trump-aligned efforts. Meanwhile, AI's role in military and ethical debates continues to grow.
Recent articles highlight shifts in food culture and markets. A chef turned entrepreneur has built a successful business based on family recipes and community. Meanwhile, a caviar brand aims to democratize luxury, and a golf champion hosts the most expensive Masters dinner ever. These stories reflect evolving consumer preferences and industry dynamics.
California has qualified a proposal for a billionaire wealth tax, which supporters say will fund healthcare and education. Opponents warn it will trigger a mass exodus of the wealthy, leading to significant job and revenue losses. The measure now faces a voter referendum in November 2026.
California’s billionaire wealth tax is facing a strong challenge as Brin and other tech leaders push back. Brin has funded Building a Better California and moved assets out of state, arguing the tax could devastate the economy. The state’s governor opposes the measure, while donors race to influence November ballots.
A crowded field of seven candidates has faced off ahead of California’s June 2 primary. Debates have aired on CNN and NBC, with topics ranging from gas prices to homelessness, immigration, and the state’s high-cost economy. The race to replace term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom remains unsettled as voters head toward mail-in ballots.
House Oversight has subpoenaed former Apollo CEO Leon Black after his closed-door interview on June 26, 2026. Committee chair James Comer has ordered Black to produce nondisclosure agreements tied to women and to appear for a July 16 deposition after Black declined to answer NDA questions. Black has denied wrongdoing and said he paid Epstein for legitimate financial services.