By Mateo Restrepo
Colombian journalist focused on Latin American politics, opinion and the diaspora across the Americas.
US Millionaire Surge Widens Wealth Gap, Report Shows
The US added 441,078 new millionaires in 2025, according to UBS. Yet the wealth gap persists, with a Gini coefficient of 0.77. Median wealth
California tightens rules for AI mental health chatbots
California lawmakers are advancing SB 903 to stop tech companies from marketing AI chatbots as psychotherapy. The bill would require license
California's wildfire season now spans the entire year
California's wildfire season no longer exists—fires now burn year-round due to climate change. Burned acreage has quadrupled since 1996. Exp
Dengue spreads locally in Florida as health officials urge vigilance
Dengue is spreading locally in southern Florida, with cases confirmed in residents who haven't traveled. Health officials urge communities t
Connecticut Rolls Out $300 Food Cards for Families Hit by SNAP Cuts
Connecticut is distributing $300 prepaid grocery cards to residents who lost SNAP benefits due to new federal work requirements. The $8.5 mi
California's minimum wage hits $17.40 in 2027, but these cities pay more
California's statewide minimum wage will reach $17.40 per hour in 2027, the highest in the U.S. But several cities, including Emeryville and
California's summer COVID wave: what's driving the rise and what to do
COVID cases are climbing in California and other states this summer, driven by heat-driven gatherings and waning immunity. Hospitalizations
South Florida health inspectors close 13 restaurants over pests and hygiene failures
State inspectors closed 13 South Florida restaurants this month after finding rodent droppings, roaches, and severe temperature control fail
California's new AI transparency law reshapes content labeling
California's AI Transparency Act (SB 942) is now in effect, mandating clear labels on AI-generated content and free detection tools. Tech co
Texas Freezes AI Data Center Grid Connections Pending Audits
Governor Greg Abbott ordered a moratorium on AI data center grid connections until audits verify energy, water, and tax impacts. ERCOT faces
New York's Public Grocery Stores: A Bold Plan to Cut Food Costs by 30%
Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration will open five public grocery stores across NYC, aiming to cut food costs by 30%. Small bodega owners
Texas Governor's Plan Aims to Cut Health Insurance Costs for Small Businesses
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has unveiled a plan to reduce health insurance costs for small businesses and families. The initiative includes r